New MLS program director plans to continue legacy of excellence
By Kate Hunger
Assistant Professor Gerardo Ramos, MS, Ph.D. MLS (ASCP), F-ABFT, officially assumed the duties of Medical Laboratory Sciences program director on Jan. 1.
“The first goal is to continue the legacy of excellence,” established by his predecessor, former Program Director and Associate Professor Cheryl Burns, M.S., MLS (ASCP), Ramos said. “She has done an amazing job.”
Ramos’ other goals include increasing enrollment and introducing simulations and online options to provide students with alternative opportunities for practical clinical experiences in rural areas beyond San Antonio.
Ramos is also associate chair of the Department of Health Sciences. He joined the Medical Laboratory Sciences faculty in 2019. A graduate of the School’s clinical laboratory science bachelor’s program, Ramos earned master’s degrees in toxicology and higher education administration, and a doctoral degree in toxicology, all while serving in the U.S. Air Force and developing his expertise in leadership and forensic toxicology. He earned the rank of lieutenant colonel and retired in 2019 after 23 years of military service.