Four Faculty members assume newly created leadership positions

Four faculty members at the UF College of Medicine – Jacksonville are stepping into newly created leadership positions at the college. Leon L. Haley Jr., M.D., MHSA, dean of the college and CEO of UF Health Jacksonville, announced the appointments.

Kelly Best, M.D., an associate professor of obstetrics and gynecology, has been named assistant dean for faculty affairs. She will provide advice to faculty on clinical, research and educational portfolios as it relates to promotion and tenure. She will also work with college mentors and department leadership on effective mentoring for assistant- and associate-level faculty to facilitate successful promotion and tenure.

Madeline Joseph, M.D., a professor of emergency medicine, has been named associate dean for inclusion and equity. She will work with clinical department leadership and deans to integrate equity and inclusivity into research, academic programs, clinical practice and community health. Joseph will collaborate with the UF chief diversity officer and other equity and inclusion leaders across the university.

Ross Jones, M.D., M.P.H., an assistant professor of community health and family medicine, will serve as medical director of community health. He will partner with the community to improve overall health and well-being. In addition, he will explore innovative ways of delivering health care to the community.

David Chesire, Ph.D., an associate professor of surgery, has been named director of the new Work-Life Center. Chesire, who specializes in trauma psychology, will promote wellness, employee engagement and resilience among all campus employees through prevention programs, educational outreach, program evaluation and comprehensive mental/behavioral health programs designed to serve the unique needs of health care providers and employees.