The University of Texas (UT) MD Anderson Cancer Center is recognizing the exceptional leadership of President Peter WT Pisters, MD, following his announced plan to retire from MD Anderson to focus on the next chapter of his career. The UT System Board of Regents and Chancellor John M. Zerwas, MD, have named Jeffrey E. Lee, MD, Interim President, effective immediately. Dr. Pisters will work with Dr. Lee on a thoughtful transition through the end of September.
Peter WT Pisters, MD
Jeffrey E. Lee, MD
Dr. Pisters’ Tenure
Since returning to MD Anderson in 2017 to serve as President, Dr. Pisters championed the development and execution of the institution's strategic plan. Under his leadership, MD Anderson set in place a $10 billion capital expansion plan now actively underway, achieved the strongest financial performance in its 85-year history, and launched a $2.5 billion comprehensive philanthropic campaign that has already raised $2.16 billion.
Key priorities advanced during Dr. Pisters’ tenure as President include the launch of five transformative institutes: the James P. Allison Institute, the Institute for Data Science in Oncology, the Institute for Cell Therapy Discovery & Innovation, the Meyers Institute for Oncology Nursing, and the Leadership Institute. Through a steadfast focus on patient safety, elevating the patient experience, and investing in employee wellness, he has cultivated a high-performing culture that develops leaders, empowers employees, and delivers exceptional outcomes.
“I first arrived at MD Anderson 32 years ago with a passion for doing everything I could to advance our mission to end cancer. Serving as the only faculty member to become President, and now marking 9 years in the role, I can say with great pride and gratitude that there is no better place than MD Anderson to turn hope into healing for patients and families everywhere,” said Dr. Pisters. “With a timeless strategy, a strong leadership team, unprecedented levels of financial health, and a priceless culture anchored in our deeply held core values, now is the right time for me to transition to other opportunities. MD Anderson has never been stronger, and its future has never been brighter.”
Transition Plan
Dr. Lee will lead MD Anderson over the next several years. He currently is Executive Vice President, Chief Physician Executive, and Chief Cancer Network Officer; he is also a member of MD Anderson’s Executive Leadership Team. He has been at the institution for 35 years, and is recognized for his clinical, research, administration, and leadership expertise.
Dr. Lee, a surgical oncologist, oversees MD Anderson's clinical divisions, its national cancer network, and relationships with international governmental and nongovernmental organizations. As part of his strategic responsibility for extending the reach and value of MD Anderson, he leads institutional initiatives to expand virtual care offerings, improve quality of care nationwide, and enhance patient experience and outcomes through clinical and technological innovations.
“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve during this important time for MD Anderson. Continuing Dr. Pisters’ exceptional legacy of leadership at this institution, where I have spent my entire career, will be among the greatest honors of my professional life. I have been privileged to work alongside extraordinary teams and leaders, united by a shared commitment to providing and advancing the very best care for cancer patients,” said Dr. Lee. “Together, we have accomplished so much, particularly during the past 9 years, and our work is far from finished. I look forward to partnering with the UT System and Dr. Pisters during this transition, and to collaborating with our many colleagues and supporters as we continue to advance our mission to end cancer.”
Drs. Pisters and Lee will immediately begin working closely together to ensure the highest levels of continuity and stability for the future of MD Anderson.
