WVU School of Medicine Eastern Campus Dean honored with University Medal for service

West Virginia University School of Medicine Eastern Campus Dean Richard Thomas, M.D., D.D.S., was recently awarded with the Uniformed Services University’s prestigious University Medal for his service and accomplishments during his tenure as president of Health Sciences at the University.

Dr. Thomas was presented with the University Medal during a special ceremony on Tuesday, April 18, at the Uniformed Services University campus in Bethesda, Maryland. Nearly 300 colleagues and friends attended the ceremony, including current USU President Jonathan Woodson, M.D.

“It is my great honor to recognize Dr. Thomas today for his unwavering commitment to this university, and his outstanding achievements while serving as President of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences,” Dr. Woodson said. “Under Dr. Thomas’s exceptional and inspirational leadership, the University significantly expanded its academic and research portfolios in response to the expressed needs of the Services.”

Also among those in attendance was General James McConville, United States Army Chief of Staff, who served as a guest speaker for the event. During his speech, Gen. McConville spoke about his admiration for Thomas’s career-long dedication to the healthcare of armed service members.

“Dr. Thomas is one of the most talented officers I have ever served with,” McConville said. “His enduring legacy includes increased medical effectiveness, engagement, and readiness for the future Joint Force. The impact he has made here will continue to save lives, through the expert education and training he has ensured our military medical professionals are provided.”

Prior to being named Eastern Campus dean and associate vice president of Health Sciences at WVU, Thomas served as the president of Health Sciences at USU from 2016-2021. During his five-year tenure as president, Thomas was credited for providing significant growth within USU’s School of Medicine, School of Nursing, Postgraduate Dental College, College of Allied Health Sciences and the Enlisted to Medical Degree Preparatory Program.

Thomas said he felt very honored by the award, and that he hopes he can continue to make a positive impact on his community.

“I feel very humbled to be awarded the prestigious USU Medal and share that moment with my friends and former colleagues,” Thomas said. “I hope to take this positive energy and put it towards continuing to build upon the already excellent healthcare-centric culture here at the Eastern Campus.”

To learn more about the opportunities available at the School of Medicine’s Eastern Campus, visit medicine.hsc.wvu.edu/eastern.