Dr. Emilio G. Volz, a double board-certified physician and a University of Miami alumnus, has been named director of the Student Health Service (SHS).
An emergency and family medicine physician, Volz currently serves as assistant professor of emergency medicine at Florida International University. Before attending Creighton University School of Medicine, he obtained his bachelor’s degree in microbiology and immunology from the University of Miami.
“It definitely feels good to be coming back to the University,” said Volz. “I know it’s a time of transition for all of us with the pandemic—but I’m someone who has taken care of patients in the worst of the pandemic, someone who has been on the front lines. Hopefully, I will bring reassurance to our students.”
Volz said he has been at the bedside during some of the most critical times in a patient’s life and has dealt with everything from a “stubbed toe to moments away from death.” He is committed to continuing the SHS mission of supporting a diverse student body and ensuring the health and wellness of all students.
The physician brings to his new role experience in medicine and leadership, including the role of chief resident at Christiana Care Health System in Delaware. He has been in practice for more than a decade and is a member of the American Academy of Emergency Medicine, the American Academy of Family Physicians, and the American College of Emergency Physicians.
In his SHS position, Volz will use his skills to oversee clinical operations for the team, provide organizational oversight, and conduct the department strategic planning activities. This includes its transition to UHealth—the University of Miami Health System.
Dr. Roy E. Weiss, chair of the Miller School of Medicine’s Department of Medicine and chief medical officer for COVID-19, chaired the search committee for the selection of Volz. “Emilio was the perfect combination of a physician dedicated to the health and diversity of our community who will bring innovations in telemedicine and post-pandemic best practices to cutting edge student health.” Weiss said.
He added that “UHealth will provide world-class health care that our students and community deserve with access to the most advanced and compassionate medical care in the world.”
Patricia A. Whitely, senior vice president for student affairs, looks forward to welcoming Volz back to campus. “Students’ health and well-being touches so many aspects of campus life,” said Whitely. “I look forward to continuing the valued partnership between Student Health Service and Student Affairs to provide students the very best care possible.”
Though the Coral Gables Campus has significantly changed in appearance since he was a commuter student there, Volz said he is glad that the core values of the University have remained the same.
“I feel like it’s really going to be a natural fit,” said Volz, who admittingly was nervous about the application process. “I’m so glad that they took the time to look at my CV, to see my primary care background and training. Everything really clicked, and I am looking forward to working with students.”
As Volz steps into the new role on July 1, he wants students at the University to know he is a “down to earth kind of guy” and that they can come and talk to him about anything health related. “I have always enjoyed that component of my job,” he added.
Volz succeeds Dr. Howard Anapol, who directed SHS for more than 26 years. Although Anapol is stepping away from SHS, he will remain as the leader of general internal medicine at the Lennar Foundation Medical Center.
“Dr. Anapol has been steadfast in his commitment to the students and the University,” said Weiss. “We cannot thank him enough for caring for the students and I look forward to continuing our work together.”
