A ’Cane Comes Full Circle
Alex J. Mechaber, M.D. ’94, takes on a lead role as president of the Medical Alumni Association
By Priyanka Sinha
Alex J. Mechaber, M.D. ’94
F
or more than two decades, students at the Miller School of Medicine relied on the steadying influence of Alex J. Mechaber, M.D. ’94, professor of medicine and longtime senior associate dean of undergraduate medical education, as well as the Bernard J. Fogel Chair in Medical Education.
But even before, Mechaber was a die-hard ’Cane, earning his medical degree as a member of the Class of 1994 and his undergraduate degree in 1990.
Now, more than a year after he left the Miller School for a post with the prestigious National Board of Medical Examiners, Mechaber has returned to his alma mater as president of the school’s Medical Alumni Association (MAA), where he will follow outgoing president, Ana Gonzalez I. M.D. ’85. We caught up with him to find out where he sees the MAA going, and more.
What prompted you to take on a leadership role as president of the MAA?
I have always felt the need to give back to the institution that gave me so much. Serving as the president of our MAA is my way to continue to contribute to the school that provided me with such a meaningful and lasting education.
What is your vision for the MAA?
My vision is to create enduring relationships among alumni and between alumni and current learners by supporting them while advancing the mission of the Miller School.
How can your fellow alumni make a difference?
There are many ways alumni can make a difference for learners, both medical students and residents, from supporting scholarship initiatives that help make the cost of medical education more affordable, to providing meaningful and practical career guidance.
Why should alumni get involved in supporting the school’s future?
We all take great pride in our alma mater. Our continued support will only help to further elevate the stature of our school, which enhances our pride.
What are you doing now?
I currently serve as the associate vice president for Physician Licensure Programs at the National Board for Medical Examiners. In this role, I am part of the leadership team that oversees the United States Licensing Exam. I am also professor emeritus at the Miller School, where I continue to teach medical students.
In your role as the Bernard J. Fogel Chair in Medical Education, what inspired you the most?
Being awarded the Bernard J. Fogel Chair in Medical Education was the pinnacle of my academic career. It served as an acknowledgment of my significant contributions to medical student education for close to 23 years, with 10 years serving as the senior associate dean for undergraduate medical education. It was an honor to be the second recipient of this chair named after my dean in medical school, and an inspiring leader, Dr. Bernard J. Fogel, M.D. ’61
What are some of your best memories from your time at the Miller School?
I have had many great memories of my time here. I was part of the best class ever at the Miller School (Class of 1994), met my wife at the Miller School (Dr. Hilit Frenkel Mechaber, Class of 1995) and enjoyed close to 23 wonderful years on the faculty. I have countless memories of teaching superb medical students and residents, developing lifelong friendships with colleagues, and having a lasting impact in developing some of the most innovative medical education programs in the country.
For more on the MAA, visit med.miami.edu/alumni. 
