Cheryl Hug-English, M.D., MPH, has been named interim dean of the University of Nevada School of Medicine. A 1982 graduate of medical school who went on to earn a master's in public health from UCLA, Hug-English most recently served as a clinical faculty member in the Department of Family Medicine and medical director of the University of Nevada, Reno's Student Health Center.

Hug-English is a past president of the Nevada State Board of Medical Examiners and was named the School of Medicine's Alumnus of the Year in 2008. Her prior posts with the school include chair of admissions, assistant and associate dean of admissions and student affairs and member of the Integrated Clinical Services Board. She has served on several committees, including the Student Development Committee. Hug-English is also a past president of the School of Medicine's Alumni Association.

"Dr. Hug-English has a great amount of experience in various facets of the School of Medicine," said University Provost Marc Johnson. "With this broad range of experience, she will be able to serve as interim dean with good perspective."

"I look forward to working closely with Dean Hug-English, and the school, as many opportunities unfold over this academic year," Johnson added. "Dean Hug-English has President Glick's and my full confidence and support to lead the medical school programs."

Hug-English's appointment as dean is effective August 30. It is anticipated that she will continue in this interim role until completion of a search for the combined position of vice president for health sciences and dean of the School of Medicine. The search is expected to take several months to complete.

Hug-English replaces Ole Thienhaus, M.D., who served as both dean and interim dean over the past 27 months.

"I wish to extend my thanks to Dr. Thienhaus for serving as dean and interim dean, as he has also continued his clinical services," said Johnson. "His continued service and commitment to both his patients and students, the School of Medicine, the University and our state are commendable and deeply appreciated."

Thienhaus was honored in early August as one of Nevada's Healthcare Heroes by Nevada Business magazine.