Borderplex Care Breakthrough
Cancer Care Expert Dr. Eric Rohren Welcomed as Foster School of Medicine’s Dean by El Paso Leaders
New dean brings nationally recognized cancer imaging expertise to expand specialized care access for our Borderplex patients
Health care leaders, civic officials, and community advocates, including El Paso County Judge Ricardo A. Samaniego, gathered on Tuesday, Nov. 18, at Texas Tech Health El Paso’s auditorium to welcome Eric M. Rohren, M.D., Ph.D., FACR, as the new Rick and Ginger Francis Endowed Dean of the Foster School of Medicine.
Dr. Rohren is internationally recognized for his expertise in positron emission tomography (PET) and computed tomography (CT) for cancer detection and treatment. He brings a deep commitment to improving patient care and medical education in El Paso.
Dr. Rohren began his new role on Oct. 1 following a national search, succeeding Richard Lange, M.D., M.B.A., who remains president of Texas Tech Health El Paso. He joins the university from Baylor College of Medicine, where he served as professor and chair of radiology, and as president of the Baylor Medicine Board of Governors.
“The reception was much more than a welcome event — it's a testament to the strong partnerships between Texas Tech Health El Paso, local government, and our vibrant community,” said Dr. Rohren. “From the moment of my first visit, I was impressed by the energy and focus here. We have an amazing opportunity to bring world-class cancer care to El Paso through the Fox Cancer Center, and further our mission to transform health care for our region by growing our own physicians.”
The Foster School of Medicine graduates over 100 medical students each year and more than 1,000 to date, while its affiliated physicians care for over 125,000 patients across 108 counties in West Texas. Dr. Rohren’s leadership will focus not only on increasing the number of physicians but also on improving access to specialized cancer care through the Fox Cancer Center — addressing a critical need in a region where patients often travel hours for oncology treatment.
The evening highlighted the collaboration between academic medicine and civic leadership.
Judge Samaniego shared: “Dr. Rohren’s expertise elevates the exceptional caliber of care offered across the entire Texas Tech Health El Paso medical center and strengthens the future of health care in our region. We are grateful to have him join our community and look forward to the impact his leadership will bring to El Paso.”
Although Mayor Renard U. Johnson was unable to attend in person, he expressed his praise for the new dean. “We know Dr. Rohren’s expertise and passion for service will strengthen our medical community and inspire the next generation of physicians,” said the mayor.
A notable aspect of Dr. Rohren’s story is his professional partnership with his wife, Nancy M. Rohren, B.S., CNMT, PET, RTN, FSNMMI-TS. Ms. Rohren is a nationally recognized expert in nuclear medicine and PET imaging and currently works as a consultant in that field. The Rohrens show a strong dedication to improving health care for residents of El Paso and beyond.
Dr. Lange emphasized the importance of leadership continuity: “Dr. Rohren’s appointment reinforces our shared commitment to improving health care access for El Pasoans most in need. We are thrilled to welcome the Rohren family as integral members of our community and institution.”
As the Foster School of Medicine looks to the future, Dr. Rohren is focused on broadening the school’s reputation, reach and impact. He also remains committed to providing world-class education and patient care for everyone who calls El Paso home.
About Texas Tech Health El Paso
Texas Tech Health El Paso serves 108 counties in West Texas and is dedicated to preparing the next generation of health care heroes. Established as an independent university in 2013, Texas Tech Health El Paso is a uniquely innovative destination for medical, nursing, biomedical sciences and dental education.
Focusing on excellence in health care education, research, and clinical service, Texas Tech Health El Paso has graduated over 2,600 professionals since 2013, including its first cohort of dental graduates in 2025. For more information, visit ttuhscepimpact.org.