We Mourn the Loss of UF Health Jacksonville CEO, Dr. Leon Haley
Leon Haley, MD
It is with profound sadness that we bring you word of Dr. Leon Haley’s passing. Our dear friend and colleague was fatally injured in a tragic accident over the weekend.
So many of us at Morehouse School of Medicine were touched by Dr. Haley’s brilliance and his compassion. He believed, as we do, in the gravity of our mission as clinicians, researchers and faculty. His service with Grady Health System and Emory Healthcare will be long remembered for his innovations, commitment to the broader community and the many ways in which he enriched so many lives.
Dr. Haley, who served as the dean of the UF College of Medicine – Jacksonville, became the first Black CEO of UF Health Jacksonville in January 2018. He was also vice president of health affairs of the University of Florida. A Pittsburgh native, he earned his bachelor’s degree from Brown University and his medical degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. He served as executive associated dean of the Emory School of Medicine and deputy senior vice president of medical affairs at Grady Memorial Hospital here in Atlanta before leaving for a new assignment to Jacksonville.
It should come as no surprise that, in December 2020, he stepped up to become one of the first in Jacksonville, Florida to receive a COVID-19 vaccination, setting an example for his staff and the country.
Our thoughts and prayers are with his family. We will share more information as it becomes available.