Dr. Tomás A. Salerno, professor of surgery in the Cardiovascular Division, and DeWitt Daughtry Endowed Chair in cardiothoracic surgery at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, has been honored with the James W. McLamore Outstanding Service Award for his commitment and outstanding service to the University.
Born in Cassia, a small town in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil, Salerno paved his own career path, securing a full scholarship from the Leopold Schepp Foundation in New York to attend McGill University in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, where he obtained his M.D. and trained in general surgery and cardiothoracic surgery.
Salerno has been instrumental in advancing medical education, research, and clinical excellence. His dedication to faculty development and mentorship has profoundly impacted the Miller School of Medicine and the University, where he has guided countless students and colleagues in their professional journeys.
"How is it that a man can produce such an immense body of clinical work, teaching, research, and service, yet remain under the radar for so long?” said Dr. Gaetano Ciancio, the Brandon and Kyle Simonsen Professor of Surgery and Urology at the Miller School of Medicine and chief medical officer at the Miami Transplant Institute at Jackson Memorial Hospital. “To me, this speaks volumes about the humility of Dr. Salerno—a man who rose from humble beginnings in a small village in Brazil to become a true source of pride for our University."
Additionally, as a member of the Faculty Senate since 2008, Salerno has served in various leadership roles including chair of the Faculty Senate from 2014 to 2019. During his time as Faculty Senate chair, he was instrumental in cultivating a strong relationship between the Faculty Senate, the University administration, and the Board of Trustees. He was elected to the Iron Arrow Honor Society in 2017.
“Outside of the operating room, I spend my time mentoring students from all over the world, helping to shape the next generation of surgeons,” said Salerno. “I also make time for my family—walking my dogs, spending time with my kids and grandkids. That balance keeps me grounded.”
A member of 11 scientific journal editorial boards and chief editor of the Journal of Cardiac Surgery since 2019, Salerno has written more than 12 books and 40 book chapters, penned more than 500 peer-reviewed articles, and given more than 280 national and international presentations.
“Cardiac surgery isn’t just my profession—it’s my passion,” said Salerno. “It’s what I think about, what I dream about, and what I dedicate my life to.”
The 2024–25 Faculty Senate Awards Ceremony will be held in person on Monday, March 31, at 5 p.m. at the Kislak Center at the University of Miami. Learn more about the awards.
This profile is part of a 2024–25 Faculty Senate Awards series recognizing all awardees.
