Dr. Jennifer Pugh Appointed Director of MD/MBA Program

Dear Jacobs School community,

I am delighted to announce the appointment of Jennifer L. Pugh, MD, MBA ‘09, as the director of the MD/MBA program at the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo, effective July 1. Dr. Pugh brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this role, drawing from her distinguished career in emergency medicine and her commitment to medical education and leadership.

Dr. Pugh takes over from Philip L. Glick, MD, MBA, a professor of surgery at the Jacobs School, who has led the program for the past decade. Dr. Glick’s career has been marked by his commitment to pediatric surgical care, significant contributions to medical research, and leadership in health care policy and education. We extend our deepest gratitude to Dr. Glick for his dedicated service and contributions to the program.

Currently, Dr. Pugh holds dual roles as a clinical assistant professor of emergency medicine at the Jacobs School and as associate chief of emergency medicine at Erie County Medical Center (ECMC). In these positions, she plays a pivotal role in the day-to-day operations at ECMC, which stands as the region's sole adult Level 1 trauma center. Dr. Pugh also serves as president of ECMC’s medical executive committee, helping guide policies and procedures for the institution’s medical/dental service lines.

Her contributions extend beyond ECMC, as she actively serves as an emergency medicine physician for the Buffalo Sabres, providing immediate medical attention and expertise during critical moments.

A proud alumna of the Jacobs School, Dr. Pugh completed her MD/MBA program, after which she further honed her skills through a residency in emergency medicine at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

Dr. Pugh's educational journey began with her undergraduate studies in biomedical sciences at the Jacobs School, where she earned her bachelor’s degree. She then pursued her medical degree and MBA at the same institution.

Throughout her career, Dr. Pugh has demonstrated a deep commitment to patient care, physician well-being, and medical education. She has been a prominent advocate for physician well-being as president of the ECMC medical/dental staff and has been actively involved in teaching and mentorship for medical students and emergency medicine residents.

Dr. Pugh's accomplishments extend beyond clinical practice and education. She has presented to national audiences at prestigious forums such as the Aspen Institute in Washington, DC, and has contributed to important discussions through her publications, including articles on the 2017 cyberattack at ECMC.

Her dedication and leadership have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by the numerous awards she has received, including recognition from Buffalo Spree as one of the Top Doctors in Western New York, the Gold Humanism Honor Society, and the New York American College of Emergency Physicians Young Physician Leadership and Advocacy Award, among others.

In her new role as director of the MD/MBA program, Dr. Pugh will continue to foster excellence in medical education and leadership development. The MD/MBA program, a collaborative effort between the UB School of Management and the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, offers medical students the opportunity to enhance their clinical training with advanced management education.

Under Dr. Pugh's guidance, the program will offer students a comprehensive curriculum blending rigorous medical training with specialized courses in health care policy and management. Her vision and expertise will steer students towards becoming the next generation of health care leaders.

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Jennifer Pugh on her appointment as the director of the MD/MBA program. We eagerly anticipate the program's continued success and expansion under her leadership.

Thank you, 

Allison Brashear, MD, MBA
Vice President for Health Sciences and
Dean, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences
University at Buffalo