SHSU COM Renamed for Founding Dean Dr. Randolph
CONROE, Texas – Sam Houston State University has officially renamed its College of Osteopathic Medicine in honor of its founding dean, Dr. John R. Randolph. The institution is now officially recognized as the Sam Houston State University John R. Randolph College of Osteopathic Medicine.
The renaming serves as a permanent tribute to Dr. Randolph, whose leadership was instrumental in the creation and early success of the medical school. He served as the founding dean from the college's inception until his retirement in 2023.
The college, located in Conroe, holds a historic place in Texas medical education as the first college of osteopathic medicine housed within a public university in the state. The institution welcomed its inaugural class of medical students in July 2020. Since that time, the school has grown rapidly, culminating in a significant milestone this past spring when the inaugural cohort of students graduated in May 2024.
University leadership noted that Dr. Randolph’s vision was central to navigating the complex accreditation and development processes required to establish the school, which was built specifically to address the critical shortage of primary care physicians in rural and underserved areas of Texas.
Following Dr. Randolph's retirement last year, the college has continued its operations under the leadership of Dr. Shannon Jimenez, who currently serves as the interim dean. The administration at Sam Houston State University indicated that the decision to rename the college was intended to reflect the enduring legacy of Dr. Randolph’s contributions to both the university and the broader landscape of medical education in Texas.
The John R. Randolph College of Osteopathic Medicine remains focused on its mission to train physicians who are committed to clinical excellence and service to their communities. Prospective students and members of the public can learn more about the college’s programs, admissions criteria, and history by visiting the official website at shsu.edu/academics/osteopathic-medicine.