The House Staff Council is a representative organization serving the residents and fellows at UT Health San Antonio. Our mission is to improve patient care and graduate medical education by facilitating communication between the residents, the university, the hospitals and our community.
The council is made up of four officers and representatives from each department.
President
Daniel L. Smerin M.D., PGY IV as of July 1, 2024
Neurological Surgery
"I am honored to serve as President of the House Staff Council. My focus will be on resident wellness and curriculum optimization. Together, let's continue to move forward!"
Vice President
Tanisha Mitra D.O., PGY-II as of July 1, 2024
Psychiatry
"In my role as Vice President and as a champion of mental health, I will prioritize the well-being of residents across all specialties. Through active engagement with colleagues, I wish to promote awareness of the drivers of distress/burnout and work towards improving the overall residency experience."
Secretary
Keerthi Thallapureddy M.D., PGY-III as of July 1, 2024
Internal Medicine
"I am excited to continue serving as secretary of the House Staff Council this year. I look forward to engaging with residents and fellows, providing updates in timely manner, and fostering an environment where we can freely communicate with each other and work in unity in caring for each other and for our community both in and outside the clinical setting.”
Treasurer
Luis F. Valdez M.D., PGY-II as of July 1, 2024
Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
"My goal during my tenure as treasurer will be to focus on managing a budget that is centered around the needs of our house staff. I plan to fund activities that will allow our residents to have some fun, network, and ultimately extend their community and support system during their medical training. I hope to build on the successes of my predecessors by continuing already well-established events and funding new activities that highlight some of the best parts of living in San Antonio."
