Ruth Franks Snedecor, MD, Appointed Assistant Dean for Graduate Medical Education

Ruth Franks Snedecor, MD, has been named assistant dean for Graduate Medical Education at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix.

Dr. Franks brings more than two decades of experience in academic medicine, patient safety and quality improvement. She earned her medical degree from the U of A College of Medicine – Tucson and completed her residency in Internal Medicine at what is now the College of Medicine – Phoenix program at Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix. Board-certified in Internal Medicine, she works as a hospitalist, providing high-quality patient care while teaching residents and medical students.

"We are excited to welcome Dr. Franks in this new role. Her expertise and commitment to physician education and professional growth will enrich graduate medical education and expand high-quality training opportunities for learners across the state," said Cheryl O'Malley, MD, vice dean of GME. 

Since 2008, Dr. Franks has served in numerous leadership roles, including associate program director for the Internal Medicine Residency Program and physician lead for Patient Safety at Banner – UMC Phoenix. Her academic contributions began early in her career as a faculty educator in the Doctoring Course and expanded to directing core sub-internships and electives for medical students at the college. She continues to mentor faculty and residents in quality improvement and advances patient safety education nationally through leadership in the Society of Hospital Medicine’s Quality and Safety Educators Academy and other invited talks. Dr. Franks has been recognized repeatedly for excellence in teaching and clinical care.

In her new role, Dr. Franks will oversee the college’s graduate medical education training programs based at community and rural Banner hospitals, ensuring compliance with ACGME institutional and program requirements. She will serve as assistant DIO in the DIO’s absence; participate in strategic and operational discussions within the college and with clinical partners; and contribute to the GME leadership team. Her responsibilities include monitoring accreditation processes, supporting faculty development, overseeing GME mental health and wellness initiatives and fostering collaboration across the UME–GME continuum. Dr. Franks will also represent the college at national and regional GME meetings, lead efforts to promote educational excellence and institutional compliance, and support the college’s mission by cultivating positive relationships among faculty, staff and trainees.