Amy Waer, MD, joins the College of Medicine administration

Amy Waer, MD, has joined the Texas A&M University College of Medicine as vice dean of Education and Academic Programs, effective February 5, 2018. Waer brings several decades of surgical experience and medical education expertise with her from the University of Arizona Health Sciences College of Medicine, where she most recently served as associate dean of Curricular Affairs.

Waer will lead all medical education planning and delivery for the college across its five campuses. She will ensure that the curriculum is delivered in the best possible way and that students on clinical rotations receive an excellent experience.

“Dr. Waer is a national leader in medical education and we are honored to have her join us,” said Carrie L. Byington, MD, dean of the Texas A&M College of Medicine, senior vice president of the Texas A&M University Health Science Center and vice chancellor for health services at The Texas A&M University System. “She has extensive experience in crafting and delivering medical education in-line with a value-based system. Dr. Waer’s experience in the rural health professions program at the University of Arizona will serve the College of Medicine as we work to train students to deliver care to patients in rural areas. Her expertise will also guide us as we work towards accreditation of the Engineering Medicine track and will ensure the continued high-quality of all of our education programs.”

Waer has been recognized throughout her academic career with awards that honor her teaching and ability to serve as a role model. She held the position of director of the Surgery Clerkship at the University of Arizona for five years during which the clerkship was twice recognized for excellence with the award for “Outstanding Achievement in Teaching by a Clerkship of Elective in the Clinical Sciences.”

She has also overseen the Rural Health Professions Program at the University of Arizona for the last five years, traveling throughout Arizona conducting site visits and recruiting for the rural faculty preceptors. For the last two years she served as the medical director for the Arizona Telemedicine Program.

“After coming out of private practice and into an academic health center, I quickly found my passion for education,” Waer said. “I love working with students and residents—it’s why I get up in the morning.”

Waer received her undergraduate and medical degrees from the University of Arizona. Her research and clinical interests have focused on surgery, surgical education and breast surgery. More specifically, her research has centered on breast cancer prevention and early detection.

“I want to make a difference, and I believe that Texas A&M is the place to make it happen,” Waer added. “I am thrilled to join this team.”