After years of leadership in surgical education and resident training, Jerrod Keith, MD, has been named Vice Chair for Education in the University of Iowa Department of Surgery.

As program director for the Plastic Surgery Residency Program, Dr. Keith has played a key role in training future surgeons, mentoring residents and fellows, and advancing educational excellence across the department. In his new role, he will help guide and strengthen the department's educational mission across residency, fellowship, and faculty development programs.

"I am excited for the opportunity to work alongside our faculty, residents, fellows, and staff to continue advancing surgical education within the Department of Surgery," Dr. Keith said. "Our trainees are at the heart of our educational mission, and I look forward to supporting innovative learning opportunities that prepare them to provide exceptional patient care and become leaders in the field."

Dr. Keith Portrait

Jerrod Keith, MD

Vikas Dudeja, MBBS, FACS

"Dr. Keith has consistently demonstrated a passion for surgical education and a commitment to supporting learners at every stage of training. His experience, vision, and dedication to educational excellence make him an outstanding choice for this role."

Vikas Dudeja, MBBS, FACS, chair of the Department of Surgery.

Dr. Keith succeeds Dr. Nicholson, who is stepping down as Vice Chair for Education to focus on her expanding responsibilities as associate designated institutional official (ADIO) for Graduate Medical Education.

During her tenure, Dr. Nicholson helped strengthen the department's educational programs, enhance the trainee experience, and support countless residents and fellows across the Department of Surgery. She will continue to have a significant impact on medical education through her institutional leadership role.

Building on a strong foundation of educational excellence, Dr. Keith will help lead the department's efforts to prepare the next generation of surgeons through innovative training, mentorship, and a continued commitment to outstanding surgical education.