Associate Dean Steve Specter to retire in May

After nearly 39 years of dedicated service to USF, esteemed colleague, advisor, mentor and friend Steve Specter PhD will retire from the faculty and administrative roles in which he’s made such an important impact on the lives of students, our alumni, his faculty colleagues, the Tampa community, and the professional organizations he serves with such deep commitment.

Dr. Specter joined the USF medical faculty in 1979 as assistant professor of medical microbiology and immunology. He became a full professor in 1991. Dr. Specter has served the medical college as secretary of the Faculty Council, chair of college committees on space allocation; appointment, promotion and tenure; and curriculum. He was appointed co-director of curriculum and medical education in 1997, then associate dean for pre-clinical education in 1998, he was appointed associate dean for student affairs in 2001.

In 2014, Steve transitioned to a new role as associate dean, development and alumni relations. "We all know first-hand the critical difference Steve has made – and will continue to make – in building an esprit de corps among our medicine alumni through active engagement, involvement and philanthropy," said Jo-Ann Alessandrini, associate vice president for development and alumni relations at USF Health. "His tireless efforts have built a solid foundation on which the Morsani College of Medicine Class Scholarship Campaigns will grow and flourish for generations of students."

Last year, Steve received a number of honors and significant recognition for his service to the College of Medicine ranging from “Presenting the Charge” to the Class of 2017 at commencement and an award for his outstanding service as advisor to countless students over the years.

Dr. Bryan Bognar, vice dean for educational affairs, wrote “Words are insufficient to express the gratitude that we all feel for your incredible and sustained contributions to the Morsani College of Medicine over four decades. You have helped build this place into what it is. Generations of physicians are better for having had your guidance and caring, including me.”

Dr. Specter will step down officially on May 31.