Meharry Medical College, one of four historically Black medical schools in the United States, has appointed Vence L. Bonham, Jr. as president and chief executive officer of the Diaspora Human Genetics Institute (DHGI) and founding director of the Center for Bioethics, Social, and Behavioral Research. He will also hold a faculty appointment in the department of integrative genomics and epidemiology.
As president of DHGI, Bonham will lead efforts to increase diversity in genetics research, including the institute’s ongoing project to build the largest African ancestry genomics research database. In his role with the Center for Bioethics, Social, and Behavioral Research, Bonham will integrate scholarship in ethics, genomics, and health to examine how social, cultural, and behavioral factors impact health outcomes.
With an extensive background in law, bioethics, and genomics, Bonham comes to Meharry from the National Institutes of Health, where he most recently served as acting director and deputy director of the National Human Genome Research Institute. Earlier, he held faculty positions with Michigan State University and Saint Louis University. Before transitioning to academic roles, he provided legal counsel for Eastern Michigan University and Michigan State University.
“Throughout my career, I’ve shared Meharry’s historic commitment to advancing health outcomes and service to marginalized and underserved populations,” said Bonham. “I am honored to lead efforts that will broaden the scope of genomic research to include more individuals of African ancestry, establish the highest standards of ethical practices in science, and create innovative education and training programs for future researchers and health care leaders. It is through these actions that we will see a positive impact in the health and well-being of those most in need.”
An honors graduate of Michigan State University, Bonham earned his juris doctorate from Ohio State University.
Congratulations!
Congratulations! Cousin! You will be working at the place where I was born and you will be across the street from Fisk University, my Alma mater. Best.
Barbara Bowles