Interim Dean's Message May 2025

Dear colleagues, faculty, staff and learners,

As I begin my role as interim dean of the Central Michigan University College of Medicine, I write to you with deep respect and a profound sense of purpose. I am honored by the trust placed in me during this period of transition. It is a responsibility I take seriously—one I will approach with transparency, dedication, professionalism and enthusiasm. I am committed to prioritizing the advancement of CMED’s educational, health care, and research missions while deepening our engagement with the communities we serve.

Dr. George Kikano has concluded his remarkable tenure as our dean. His visionary leadership and tireless commitment helped shape the very foundation of this college, positioning us as a leader in rural and underserved care, community-based education, and innovation in medical training. We are deeply grateful for his service and lasting contributions.

Our duty now is to continue building on that strong foundation. As we move forward, we will remain focused on our mission—to educate and inspire future physicians, advance health care through research and service, and improve health outcomes in the communities we serve. This is not something we will do alone, but rather alongside our primary clinical partners, Covenant HealthCare and MyMichigan Medical Center Saginaw, as well as University Pediatricians and our branch campuses at MyMichigan Midland, Henry Ford Health St. John and Corewell Health Lakeland. I would be remiss without acknowledging the critical clinical education support provided at our other affiliated clinical sites including Henry Ford Genesys Hospital, UM Michigan Sparrow Hospital, and McLaren Health Care as well as the more than 1,100 volunteer community educators located throughout Michigan. Without such clinical engagement we would be unable to fulfill our mission and our promise to the state of Michigan. With a shared commitment to excellence, collaboration, and inclusivity, we will ensure that CMED remains a place of purpose, progress and impact.

I am privileged to serve alongside our dedicated and talented faculty, staff and students. Together, I am confident we will continue to move our mission forward and uphold the values that make CMED such a distinctive and impactful institution.

Kind regards,

Tina L. Thompson, Ph.D.
Interim Dean, CMU College of Medicine