Dean Stanton Gerson reappointed to lead Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine

Following a comprehensive review process, Stanton L. Gerson, MD, has been reappointed as dean of Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine for a five-year term.

The reappointment follows the formal five-year review process for deans, which included a broad assessment of Gerson’s leadership, accomplishments and vision for the future of CWRU School of Medicine. The review incorporated feedback from faculty, staff, students, university leaders and hospital leaders, as well as an evaluation of the school’s performance and strategic direction.

“Dean Gerson has provided strong and effective leadership during a particularly challenging period for academic medicine,” said Provost and Executive Vice President Joy K. Ward. “From navigating the lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic to responding to uncertainty in the federal research funding environment, he has led the School of Medicine with resilience, transparency and strategic focus. His commitment to advancing research, medical education and clinical partnerships has strengthened the school, as well as the broader university, and positioned it well for the future.”

Since becoming dean in 2021, Gerson has led a major strategic effort to strengthen and modernize the School of Medicine, including guiding the development and implementation of the school’s strategic plan and initiating its current update to support the school’s long-term direction.

He has strengthened the school’s leadership structure by appointing a coordinated vice dean team and has advanced key faculty hiring initiatives, including the recruitment of new department chairs in core basic science areas.

Gerson has also overseen renewal of major institutional research grants, successful reaccreditation of MD programs, and continued growth in faculty recruitment across the school. In addition, he has supported expansion of interdisciplinary research centers, strengthened innovation and commercialization efforts, and helped secure significant philanthropic support for the school’s priorities.

The review committee, chaired by Senior Vice Provost Donald Feke, gathered and evaluated information from a variety of sources, including a self-assessment, strategic planning materials, institutional data and confidential feedback from members of the School of Medicine community. 

“Dean Gerson has provided exemplary leadership of the school while at the same time being a highly effective and collaborative senior university leader. I look forward to continuing to work with him,” said President Eric W. Kaler, the Morton L. Mandel Presidential Chair.

His new term as dean will begin July 1, 2026.