Dr. LouAnn Woodward to Retire from UMMC by June 2027
The longtime medical center leader is set to step down as Dr. Alan Jones prepares to succeed her in the role.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in People
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Dr. LouAnn Woodward will retire from the University of Mississippi Medical Center on June 30, 2027. The Institutions of Higher Learning Board of Trustees has already accepted the recommendation to appoint Dr. Alan Jones as her successor.
Why it matters
The transition marks a leadership change for the state's only Level 1 trauma center as it prepares for a new cancer facility. Woodward has served in the UMMC administration since 2003 and became the institution's first female leader in 2015.
Dr. Woodward, currently 62, ends a tenure that began in 2003 and includes navigating a nine-day clinic closure caused by a cyberattack. Her final term follows a four-year contract that concludes on June 30, 2027.
The players
Dr. LouAnn Woodward
She is the outgoing leader of the University of Mississippi Medical Center who became its first female head in 2015.
Dr. Alan Jones
He is the incoming leader of the University of Mississippi Medical Center recently recommended for the position.
Institutions of Higher Learning Board of Trustees
This is the governing body responsible for overseeing the university system in Mississippi.
The details
The decision for Dr. Alan Jones to lead the center was recommended by the University of Mississippi Chancellor and approved by the Board of Trustees. While preparing for this transition, the medical center is also looking toward October 2026, when a new cancer center is scheduled to break ground.
Timeline
2003: Dr. LouAnn Woodward joined the UMMC administration.
2015: Dr. LouAnn Woodward became the first woman to lead UMMC.
October 2026: A new cancer center is expected to break ground.
June 30, 2027: Dr. LouAnn Woodward's current contract expires.
Market Landscape
This leadership transition follows the established protocols set by the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning Board of Trustees governance framework. The move ensures administrative continuity for the state's largest academic medical institution as it shifts toward new capital projects.
The leadership change is expected to maintain stability for patients relying on the center's Level 1 trauma services. Residents can expect the institution to move forward with the planned cancer center construction in October 2026 despite the executive transition.
The takeaway
Dr. Woodward's planned departure provides the institution with an extended transition period to finalize leadership and prepare for upcoming capital investments. Stakeholders should monitor board updates as the 2027 target date approaches.
Further reading
For more information on administrative changes within the state, visit Mississippi People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Mississippi Today.
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