Ronald Russ, D.O., named associate dean of academic affairs and clinical education at Heritage College

Ronald Russ, D.O., will serve as associate dean of academic affairs and clinical education with Ohio University’s Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, effective Jan. 1. 

Russ brings more than 25 years of experience in medical education, clinical education and academic leadership, along with a longstanding history of service to the Heritage College. He currently serves as interim chair of the Department of Primary Care, clinical assistant dean of the college's Eastern Unit, and has been a member of the Heritage College faculty since 2000.  

In addition to his work in undergraduate medical education, Russ has extensive experience in graduate medical education. Since 2008, he has served as vice president of medical education at Western Reserve Hospital, where he has led and supported residency education and faculty development. He also previously served as program director for family medicine and has held leadership roles with the Ohio Osteopathic Directors of Medical Education. 

“Ron has devoted much of his career to the Heritage College and to the education and development of our students and residents,” said Heritage College Interim Senior Dean Jennifer Gwilym, D.O. “He understands our mission, our people and the complexities of clinical education in a way that few others do. His experience, relationships and deep commitment to our college make him exceptionally suited for this role.”  

Russ said the new position will allow him to build on his experience in both undergraduate and graduate medical education while continuing to focus on preparing students for successful careers as osteopathic physicians. 

“I’m excited to use the knowledge and experience I have developed over the past 25 years in this new role with OU-HCOM,” Russ said. “Throughout my work in the UGME and GME environments, I’ve kept my focus on improving medical student education and enhancing clinical training. This position will allow me to continue this work, and integrate the diversity of necessary skills that our students will need to be successful osteopathic physicians both now and in the future.” 

Russ’s career has been marked by a sustained commitment to teaching, mentoring and medical education. He has received multiple Heritage College Teaching Excellence Awards, as well as the George L. Eckert, Jr., DO Mentor of the Year Award from the Ohio Osteopathic Association. He also was selected by the Heritage College Cleveland campus student body for the Distinguished Osteopathic Commitment Award in 2018-19 and 2019-20. 

As associate dean, Russ will lead efforts related to academic affairs and clinical education, drawing on his extensive breadth of experience and his deep understanding of the Heritage College community.