December 11, 2000

Peter J. Deckers, executive vice president for health affairs, has announced that he and his wife, Barbara, are contributing $100,000 over four years to establish the Peter J. and Barbara A. Deckers Scholarship Fund.

"This scholarship fund is only the latest manifestation of Peter and Barbara Deckers' commitment to the University and to the Health Center," says President Philip E. Austin. "By helping deserving students, the fund will enhance the Health Center's ability to serve the state and the nation as a key provider of men and women excellently trained for careers in medicine."

The fund will support scholarships that will be awarded to academically outstanding third-year medical students who demonstrate financial need. The students also must exhibit what Deckers defines as "the appropriate characteristics of a true medical professional: a high degree of medical skill, high intelligence, and a sense of duty, altruism, and equanimity.

"My family will use the fund over time as a vehicle to contribute additional funds and expand its reach," says Deckers, who is also dean of the UConn School of Medicine. "For medical students, it will help offset the cost of attending medical school. It is a gift that will help medical students for many years to come."

Deckers came to the Health Center in 1987. He has held various positions, including executive vice president for the Physician Practice Organization, University of Connecticut Health System; vice president for clinical affairs; interim dean of medicine; and division chief of surgery. From 1987 to 1996, he held the Murray Heilig endowed chair.

Recently confirmed by the Board of Trustees as executive vice president of health affairs, Deckers is responsible for the administration of the medical and dental schools, John Dempsey Hospital, UConn Medical Group, and University Dentists.

Pat Keefe