As a medical student, Jeffrey Bumpous, was focused on becoming a skilled physician. Today, as executive vice president for health affairs at the University of Louisville and dean of the School of Medicine, his perspective has broadened to the full “lifespan” and “ecosystem” of physicians—recognizing their roles not only as clinicians, but also as scientists, educators, advocates and leaders in their communities. 

“Society expects us to help, and we must deliver,” he said. 

That charge is at the heart of academic medicine nationwide, which prioritizes expanding the health care workforce, developing innovative treatments and improving access and outcomes for historically underserved communities. At the UofL School of Medicine, these priorities are guiding efforts to train the next generation of physicians and physician-scientists, while also meeting urgent health care needs across Kentucky. 

The school has expanded programs such as the MD/PhD, MD/MBA and MD/MPH, equipping graduates with the skills to advance discovery and address clinical, organizational and public health challenges. These efforts are gaining national attention: U.S. News & World Report recently recognized UofL for excellence in Primary Care, Rural Health and Physician Shortage Areas. The school’s residency match rate also exceeds the national average, with 44% of graduates entering primary care and 36% choosing to stay in Kentucky—impacting care where it is most needed. 

Bumpous calls this moment a “renaissance in medicine,” as solutions increasingly require collaboration across disciplines like engineering, social sciences and the arts. This holistic approach is evident in ULSOM initiatives addressing public health challenges and advancing personalized treatments for chronic diseases and cancer. Patients treated in teaching hospitals consistently achieve better outcomes, underscoring the value of academic medicine in improving health. 

The School of Medicine’s impact also extends beyond health care. Every dollar invested in UofL generates $1.62 in economic return, with a recent $24.5 million NIH grant adding more than $25 million to Kentucky’s economy. Altogether, the School of Medicine contributes $777 million annually—an impact equivalent to hosting the Kentucky Derby twice each year. 

“This is the work of academic medicine,” Bumpous said. “And it is a mission we are proud to lead at the University of Louisville School of Medicine.” 

Visit our website to view the full Dean’s Message and watch the 2025 Dean’s Address to learn more about the successes and priorities at the UofL School of Medicine.