Wesley Burks, MD, will present the 2026 Norma Berryhill Distinguished Lecture at the UNC School of Medicine Awards Ceremony on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at the Roper Hall Active Learning Theater.
Dr. Burks is a distinguished physician-scientist in pediatric allergy and immunology, recognized for his contributions to academic medicine, research, clinical care, and mentorship. In his seven years as CEO of UNC Health and dean of the UNC School of Medicine, he expanded the UNC Health hospital network statewide and increased the student class size. He developed medical education partnerships with Novant Charlotte and Wilmington and boosted research funding through major investments.
“His leadership philosophy is defined by the belief that by investing in people and generously collaborating, he can multiply the impact of our work, advancing knowledge more quickly and, ultimately, helping more patients. Dr. Burks is a mission driven leader, and a person of great integrity,” said Dr. Samantha Meltzer-Brody, MD, MPH, UNC School of Medicine executive dean and UNC Health chief academic officer.
About the Norma Berryhill Distinguished Lecture
The Norma Berryhill Distinguished Lecture began in 1985. Established to honor the medical school’s “most able scientists and scholars,” the lectureship is named after the late Norma Berryhill, whose late husband, Walter Reece Berryhill, was dean of the school from 1941 to 1964. Click here to read more.
All members of the UNC community are invited to join the School of Medicine for this special occasion celebrating Dr. Burks’ career, leadership, and service. A virtual attendance option will be available, and registration will open later this year.