Ian F. Dunn, M.D., FACS, FAANS, was appointed executive dean of the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine beginning January 2024. With a distinguished career spanning renowned medical institutions and pioneering contributions in neurosurgery, research, and healthcare leadership, Dr. Dunn brings a wealth of experience and vision to the College of Medicine.
Dr. Dunn's journey to leadership at the college is marked by a pursuit of excellence. Prior to joining OU, he served as a trailblazing figure in neurosurgery and academic medicine. As an associate professor at Harvard Medical School and director of the Center for Pituitary and Skull Base Surgery at Brigham and Women's Hospital, Dr. Dunn gained national recognition for his expertise in complex brain tumors, particularly those in the skull base and pituitary region. He has published widely on these topics and on the role of genomic alterations in tumor natural history, and has lectured around the world.
Dr. Dunn not only excels as a neurosurgeon but has also demonstrated remarkable leadership in healthcare administration. As executive dean, Dr. Dunn also provides leadership at the university’s health care partner, OU Health, as its inaugural chief academic officer, ensuring the integration of the university’s academic and research missions with the clinical mission of the health system.
Dr. Dunn's leadership extends beyond clinical practice to the integration of academic and research missions with healthcare delivery. Prior to serving as dean, Dr. Dunn was the Chair of the Department of Neurosurgery at the University of Oklahoma, overseeing unprecedented growth in all departmental domains over the course of five years. Under his guidance, the Department of Neurosurgery has witnessed significant growth and innovation, embracing telehealth and expanding clinical services to serve more Oklahomans.
Further, Dr. Dunn played a pivotal role in the historic merger that led to the creation of OU Health, Oklahoma's first fully integrated academic health system. He served for two years as the inaugural Chief Physician Executive at OU Health, also serving as the first president of the physician group.
As an educator and investigator, Dr. Dunn is dedicated to nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals and in advancing the research mission at the College of Medicine. He has prioritized medical student mentorship, supported robust research programs, and championed the growth of residency programs. Through his leadership, the College of Medicine is poised to strengthen its reputation as a premier institution for medical education and research.
Dr. Dunn’s appointment as executive dean marks an exciting new chapter for OU College of Medicine. With his expertise, passion, and dedication, he is committed to advancing the institution’s mission of improving healthcare outcomes for the people of Oklahoma and beyond. Under his guidance, the college looks forward to achieving new heights of excellence in education, research, and the recruitment and development of faculty who provide our patient care at OU Health.