The Quality and Patient Safety Committee of Ascension Saint Thomas Board of Directors is pleased to extend a warm welcome to Dr. Peter Buckley. His academic expertise, diverse leadership roles, and commitment to community service across various avenues will significantly enhance the committee's ability to provide valuable insights on ensuring quality and effective services for the patients we serve.

Since becoming the 11th Chancellor of the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) in February 2022, Dr. Buckley oversees Tennessee’s only public academic health science center, managing six Health Science Colleges, four academic campuses, and around 900 clinical and educational training sites across the state. Dr. Buckley's extensive committee service encompasses key roles to include Chair of the Board of Trustees for Intealth and Vice Chair for the Combined Board of ECFMG and FAIMER. He has contributed significantly to national committees, particularly in psychiatry, and holds leadership positions in mental health initiatives. Dr. Buckley's impact is also seen in his extensive publications, including over 360 articles, 80 book chapters, and 20 edited books on schizophrenia and related topics.

UTHSC and Ascension Saint Thomas have fostered a strong partnership aimed at offering comprehensive education and training for medical students, residents, and fellows across various specialties. This collaboration extends to include research collaboration, graduate dental education, and health professions education. Notably, A. Brian Wilcox, Jr., MD, chief clinical officer of Ascension Saint Thomas, assumed the Associate Dean of the UTHSC Nashville position in August 2023.

“We are honored to welcome Dr. Peter Buckley to our Board’s Quality and Patient Safety Committee,” said Fahad Tahir, president and CEO of Ascension Saint Thomas. “His extensive background reflects a comprehensive commitment to advancing healthcare, medical education, and mental health at various levels. We look forward to adding his contributions to our ministry and furthering our partnership with UTHSC.”

“Dr. Buckley’s experience will be an important addition to this committee," said Tony Heard, chair, Ascension Saint Thomas Board of Directors. "His thought leadership will reinforce the Board's dedication to providing high-quality, effective services to the patients we serve”