Dr. Michael Hocker: New Executive Dean of the College of Medicine at UT Health Science Center
A Journey Rooted in Compassion and Leadership
Dr. Michael Hocker has been named the Executive Dean of the College of Medicine at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC), effective June 23. His path to this prestigious position is marked by a deep commitment to healthcare, leadership, and a genuine desire to serve patients from all walks of life.
Early Beginnings
Growing up in Littleton, Colorado, Dr. Hocker’s healthcare journey began in high school, where he worked for his uncle’s ambulance service. His dedication was clear as he obtained his Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) license and the more advanced Emergency Medical Training Institute (EMTI) certification. This early exposure not only influenced his career choice but also helped him finance his undergraduate education and medical school through hard work.
“I didn’t come from a wealthy family. I was a first-generation college student and had to put myself through undergraduate [school] with both academic scholarships and wrestling,” Dr. Hocker reflects on his formative years.
Fort Lewis College, a small liberal arts institution in Durango, Colorado, served as his undergraduate alma mater. Balancing academics with rigorous training in wrestling allowed him to develop discipline early on. During school breaks, he dedicated his time to working on the ambulances, fostering a profound love for emergency medicine.
Medical Education and Military Service
Dr. Hocker continued his studies at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, where he discovered his passion for various medical disciplines through diverse rotations. His interest in emergency medicine solidified, fostering the skills needed to make quick decisions in high-stress environments — an asset that would later serve him well in academic leadership.
The financial burden of medical school prompted Dr. Hocker to join the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP), giving him the opportunity to serve in the Navy while subsidizing his education. After completing his medical training, he trained at the Oakland Naval Hospital and UC Davis East Bay Surgical Program. His tenure in the military was not just about serving his country; it was a time for personal and professional growth.
“It taught me that in medicine, it’s not about your needs; it’s always about your patients,” he explains.
Dr. Hocker’s time as a flight surgeon led him to global destinations such as Hawaii, Australia, and Japan, providing him with invaluable experiences. These years shaped his leadership philosophy, emphasizing the well-being of patients and the importance of service.
Academic Leadership and Achievements
Following his military service, Dr. Hocker completed his emergency medicine training at the University of Massachusetts. His ambition didn’t stop there; he pursued a Master of Health Science in Clinical Leadership from Duke University and earned a certification in conflict resolution. His 14-year tenure at Duke exemplified leadership and transformation in emergency medicine education, culminating in the establishment of a highly regarded emergency training program.
Before joining UTHSC, Dr. Hocker was the dean and chief academic officer for the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine. His tenure at the Medical College of Georgia further solidified his legacy as a leader in medical education, overseeing numerous residency programs and emphasizing excellence in training.
Vision for the Future
As Dr. Hocker embarks on this new chapter at the College of Medicine, he aspires to deepen the institution’s legacy while focusing on creating future physician leaders. His commitment extends to ensuring a student- and patient-centered approach in medical education, aiming to enhance healthcare outcomes for Tennesseans.
“When my son asked me, ‘How many people are going to be working for you?’ I said, ‘None, I’m working for them,’” recalls Dr. Hocker, reinforcing his dedication to the mission of UTHSC.
He prioritizes a dual focus on training the next generation of healthcare professionals and providing excellent care to patients, emphasizing the need to be a supportive pillar during their toughest times.
Life Beyond the Medical Field
Outside of his professional commitments, Dr. Hocker enjoys a vibrant family life with his wife, Melissa, a physician assistant, and their children. They share a passion for outdoor activities and animal husbandry, as evidenced by their plans to settle in Memphis with various pets, including dogs, cats, and birds.
Dr. Hocker also participates in triathlons, showcasing his dedication to personal fitness sustained over decades. His athletic accomplishments include over 50 competitions, with multiple entries in World Championship events.
Conclusion
Dr. Michael Hocker’s journey to the role of Executive Dean at the College of Medicine is not only an impressive professional ascent but also a testament to his lifelong commitment to compassionate care and leadership in medicine. As he takes on this pivotal role at UTHSC, stakeholders can anticipate a future built on collaboration, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to healthcare excellence.
For more information on the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, visit UTHSC.
