Samuel Benaroya Leads the Faculty During Time of Transition

With the departure of Richard I. Levin after five remarkable years of visionary leadership and guidance, Samuel Benaroya, BSc’73, MDCM’75, has enthusiastically accepted the appointment of Interim Vice-Principal (Health Affairs) and Interim Dean of the Faculty of Medicine until the selection process for a suitable candidate is complete. As a long-time McGillian and active leader within the local health care community, Benaroya is well suited to take on the many challenges of this influential position.

Samuel Benaroya, BSc'73, MDCM'75

“My role is to maintain momentum in the implementation of our broad initiatives, continue to promote positive relationships with our various health care partners and ensure a strong and vibrant academic platform for the next leader of the Faculty,” says Benaroya.

In addition to previously serving in many senior administrative capacities for the Faculty of Medicine and its affiliated hospitals, including as McGill’s Associate Vice-Principal (Health Affairs) and Associate Dean of the Faculty’s Interhospital Affairs, Benaroya is a well-respected teacher and Internal Medicine specialist. “My entire academic and clinical career has been at McGill and it has been the most enriching experience,” he says.

In taking on these new responsibilities he understands that he has taken the helm at an auspicious moment for the Faculty. Richard Levin fostered considerable change during his tenure, from implementing the Faculty’s long-term strategic planning exercise, promoting the development of Family Medicine and distributed teaching sites within Quebec, to strengthening partnerships with affiliated teaching hospitals and other faculties of medicine, and reaching out to our donor and alumni community around the world.

“His leadership style was characterized by a collaborative approach to address the challenges faced by the Faculty and he promoted a sense of mutual accomplishment, which earned him a great deal of respect,” says Benaroya. With his considerable experience and dedication, there is no doubt Benaroya will continue to guide the Faculty on its path of educational, clinical and research excellence.

[Annette Mahon]