Princeton University Athletics
Melissa Marks ‘86 MD / Women’s Open Rowing
City, State / Workplace / Title
Princeton, NJ / University Health Services / Director of Medical Services
Background
In June 2020, during the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Princeton proudly welcomed its Class of ‘86 alumnae Dr. Marks as the new director of medical services at University Health Services (UHS), the University’s fully accredited health care facility that provides medical, mental health and wellness services to Princeton undergraduate and graduate students, their dependents, faculty and staff. UHS executive director John Kolligian calls Marks “an innovative and transformative leader, known for her collaborative, supervisory and teaching skills.”
Team Behind the Team
UHS includes more than 120 world class personnel who provide world class treatment to both the general student body as well as the health and welfare oversight of all 37 athletic varsity sports teams. During the unprecedented 2020-21 school year, the disciplined and thoughtful work included major contributions from department difference-makers Sasha Steinlight, Claire Perkins, Charlie Thompson and an entire team of medical professionals and support staff who stepped up with endless compassion and skill during the pandemic. “UHS has been an incredible collaborator and partner” said [Mollie, Allison RIch, other Princeton stakeholder]
Challenges
In addition to the worldwide health concerns that impacted the University on a day-to-day basis, one key challenge has involved the communication and collaboration with partners like Dan Notterman and his team in the testing lab. Dr. Marks has expressed appreciation for being “surrounded by thoughtful and dedicated people in an environment of rigorous scientific exploration and innovation.”
Inspirations
Dr. Marks is an innovative and transformative leader, known for her collaborative, supervisory and teaching skill.John Kolligian
Dr. Marks has said that "a dear friend and classmate Carolyn Burrows (now Barber), had made the leap to medical school several years after graduation from college, and she inspired me to do the same.” Dr. Marks returned to Princeton in the early 1990's to take two classes required for medical school through the Program in Continuing Education.
Dr. Marks influences the health and wellbeing of adolescents and young adults, manages complex systems, leads, and embraces creativity and transformation, all in a community that she knows and loves. Looking ahead, UHS is well-positioned “with a team of enormously talented and engaged individuals to create the safest possible environment for education and growth in our changed world.”
Tiger Heroes
In partnership with RWJBarnabas Health, the official health care system of Princeton Athletics, “Tiger Heroes” honors front line workers and health care leaders from our alumni community. This digital and social series highlights alumni from all 37 varsity sports programs who have risen to the challenge since the onset of COVID-19. We also recognize special Princeton friends and family. Nominations may be sent to Jess Deutsch, Princeton's Associate Director, Student-Athlete Services: jdeutsch@princeton.edu