SIU Med Dean Jerry Kruse to Step Down in 2026

Jerry Kruse, MD, MSPH, dean and provost of Southern Illinois University School of Medicine and CEO of SIU Medicine, announced he will conclude his service at the end of his current contract, on August 31, 2026.

Kruse joined SIU School of Medicine in 1984 and has served in several leadership roles, including chair of the Department of Family and Community Medicine, executive associate dean, and later dean and provost. His tenure has included initiatives in medical education, rural training programs, research modernization, statewide partnerships, and leadership through the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Over 10 years as dean and provost and CEO, Dr. Kruse has led the School of Medicine through a period of rapid change and growth: navigating the pandemic, workforce shortages and health care challenges while ensuring SIU’s mission stayed strong,” said Dr. Austin Lane, chancellor of Southern Illinois University Carbondale, at this week’s SIU System Board of Trustees Meeting. “His leadership has left an indelible mark, and he is committed to finishing strong so that we can build on the foundation he created even as we begin the search for his successor.”

Reflecting on his decision, Kruse said, “It has been the privilege of a lifetime to serve SIU School of Medicine for the past 43 years and to lead as dean and provost and CEO for the last decade. Together, we have navigated a season of rapid change — from the challenges of the pandemic and health care workforce shortages to the opportunities of new technologies and rural training programs. I am deeply proud of what we have accomplished together and confident that SIU Medicine will continue to grow and innovate. Our triple aim has always been to provide health care that is effective, efficient and equitable, and I am looking forward to ending with excellence.”

The university plans to launch a national search for Kruse’s successor in the coming months. Details about the process will be announced later.