Leadership Message: Sharing a journey with you

Dear Colleagues,

In my first two months here at UC Davis Health, I have clearly felt a sense of purpose and momentum. The experience has been inspiring, and I continue to be impressed by the extraordinary people who define this community.

I’m excited about this new chapter for all of us – a journey we’ll share together.  With all of the people I’ve met so far, it’s clear we are united by a common purpose of advancing the health and well-being of our patients and making a meaningful difference in the world.

The values and sense of purpose I found here years ago have left a lasting imprint on me. I began my career at UC Davis Health as an assistant professor of ophthalmology and vision science, splitting my time between research in Davis and clinical care in Sacramento.  Those early years shaped not only my scientific interests, but also my belief in the power of academic medicine to change the lives of patients and deliver hope and healing to those who need it the most.

Now, like the California Tower we recently topped out, our future is rising brightly before us with many good things ahead.

UC Davis Health rising

Returning to UC Davis Health, I see an institution in full ascent – rising not only in skyline, but in stature and impact across Northern California and our country, even globally. For example, Newsweek on Feb. 25 recognized the UC Davis Medical Center as one of the “World’s Best Hospitals in 2026” – 35^th among U.S. health systems and 7^th in California.

That’s a huge testament to everyone’s excellent work and professionalism. Thank you!

Talent and culture

When I walk our hallways, I’m inspired by the talent across UC Davis Health and our unique cultural DNA. Our nurses, physicians, researchers, educators and staff bring compassion, innovation and relentless dedication to everything they do.

That’s why I’m optimistic that our greatest opportunities are still in front of us. When we invest boldly in our faculty, empower our students to lead with curiosity and courage, and nurture an inclusive, collaborative academic community, we unlock our full potential.

Indeed, 2025 was a historic year for UC Davis Health – we opened roughly 1 million square feet of new development, the most in our history. This includes the:

• Aggie Square Innovation District
• 48X Complex outpatient surgery center
• C-Street Clinic expansion
• Folsom Medical Care Clinic

There is so much more ahead, and I’m still listening, learning and discovering in these early stages of my role here. I look forward to your continued partnership and embrace of our patient-centric principle “Believe in Better”, (which you will be seeing more about in ads around our region soon).  Improving health for all is possible.

I’m always welcoming of your questions and ideas as we share this fantastic journey ahead. Thank you for your support and hard work.  

Warm regards,

Mark Rosenblatt, M.D., Ph.D., M.B.A., M.H.A
Vice Chancellor of Human Health Sciences