Guadalajara, Mexico & Chicago, IL – March 31, 2025 – In a bold step toward shaping the future of global healthcare, the Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara (UAG) and the University of Illinois System have signed a landmark collaboration agreement aimed at expanding academic, research, and clinical opportunities in the field of medicine.
The agreement was formalized at a special reception hosted by the University of Illinois System in Mexico City, signaling a mutual commitment to cross-border cooperation that will benefit students, faculty, and communities on both sides of the border.
“This partnership opens the door to impactful collaboration in human health,” said Dr. Timothy Killeen, President of the University of Illinois System.
“With the Carle Illinois College of Medicine’s groundbreaking fusion of medicine and engineering, and the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) College of Medicine’s status as one of the largest and most respected medical schools in the U.S., we are confident this alliance will elevate innovation and care delivery for generations to come.”
The agreement has special meaning for Dr. Kashif Ahmad, Dean of the UAG School of Medicine and former faculty member at Carle Illinois College of Medicine.
“This partnership brings my journey full circle,” said Dr. Ahmad. “It’s a testament to the transformative power of collaboration, and a unique opportunity to build bridges between institutions dedicated to excellence in medical education, research, and public health.”
Also present at the signing was Juan Carlos Leaño, Vice President of UAG, who reiterated the university’s mission.
“At UAG, we are deeply committed to preparing globally minded physicians who serve their communities with compassion, skill, and integrity. This agreement affirms our dedication to educational innovation and positions us as a leading partner in global health initiatives.”
A Vision for the Future of Medicine
This collaboration will focus on key areas including:
We would like to thank Dr. Elvira De Mejia for her constant support in making this collaboration emerge under her efforts in bringing the organizations together.
About UAG School of Medicine
Founded in 1935, the Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara is Mexico’s oldest private medical school and a pioneering force in Latin American medical education. With over 40,000 alumni practicing around the world—including more than 19,000 in the United States—UAG remains committed to preparing compassionate, competent, and globally aware physicians.
About the University of Illinois System
Comprising three leading universities—University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Illinois Chicago, and University of Illinois Springfield, the UI System is a powerhouse in education, research, and public service. Its medical colleges are internationally recognized for their innovation and societal impact.
UAG alumnus Dr. Rafael J. Sepulveda-Acosta presented at the California Sleep Society Symposium, sharing key insights on the link between obesity and sleep apnea while advocating for greater clinician awareness and multidisciplinary care—an inspiring example of UAG excellence in action.
UAG continues its Student Information Sessions across the U.S. and Puerto Rico, connecting with future physicians and sharing insights into its global medical education—next stop, California!
UAG proudly recognizes Dr. Anthony Martinez for his leadership at the Doing It in the Desert Conference in Phoenix, where he presented his innovative clinic model integrating liver care and addiction services—advancing national efforts toward hepatitis elimination and equitable patient care.
UAG faculty, including Dean Dr. Kashif Ahmad and Dr. Lucía Álvarez, co-authored ScholarRx Bricks now published worldwide, advancing global medical education.
CONTÁCTANOS
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