The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth inaugurated its next president on Tuesday. Sylvia Trent-Adams started in September, replacing Michael Williams who became chancellor of the UNT system.
"Selecting a successor is not always very easy. I spent time praying for God to provide the right successor," Williams said at the inauguration Tuesday in Fort Worth. "I couldn't be happier to be here. I feel like I'm just a small part in a bigger story."
UNTHSC opened in 1970 as the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine, becoming UNT Health Science Center in 1993. The school now has 2,300 students.
"I look at the glass half-full, and I want you to know I think our future's very bright," Trent-Adams said at the ceremony.
Trent-Adams said UNTHSC can lead in research, developing treatment, and the use of technology in medicine.
"I know we are positioned to make a positive impact on health and science," she said. "Every day, I see the excitement and curiosity of our team, and I see that bright beacon of hope for the future and our students."
Last month, UNT regents approved the creation of a college of nursing at the school. UNTHSC says Texas has the second-fewest nurses per capita in the country.
Trent-Adams cites numbers from the American Health Foundation showing Texas ranks last in the country in access to healthcare, insurance coverage, and use of preventive services.
"This is a great opportunity to examine our strengths and improve our ability to grow and expand in areas of highest need with the best [return on investment]," she said.
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