A Columbus native, Dr. James Keeton, has been named as the interim vice chancellor for health affairs at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson.
Keeton replaces Dr. Daniel W. Jones, the former vice chancellor for health affairs and dean of the School of Medicine, who was named as chancellor of the University of Mississippi.
Keeton formerly served as Jones’ chief of staff.
Additionally, Dr. LouAnn Woodward, the medical school’s associate dean for academic affairs, was named as interim dean of the School of Medicine.
“I have full confidence in the leadership of Dr. Keeton and Dr. Woodward,†said Jones. “Just as I have reported to the chancellor over the years, Drs. Keeton and Woodward will report to me in my role as chancellor. And, just as I have enjoyed support from the Medical Center family, I know they will enjoy your support and encouragement.â€
Keeton and Woodward also are members of a search committee formed to perform a national search for the next vice chancellor for health affairs and dean of the School of Medicine.
“These are critical days for our medical center,†Jones said. “We have been performing at or above national norms in most of our efforts in recent days. During the initial days of a difficult economy, we have maintained financial stability. But, there are large unmet health needs in our state.
“And we are responsible for addressing those needs,†he continued. “I call on every member of the Medical Center family to support the leadership of Drs. Keeton and Woodward and to support the search process for our next leader.â€
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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