Robert David Simari (born June 6, 1960) is a retired American educator, physician, and eighth executive vice chancellor of the University of Kansas Medical Center serving from 2018 to 2024.[2] Prior to becoming the executive vice chancellor, he was the executive dean University of Kansas School of Medicine, a position he held from 2014 to 2019.[3] Prior to returning to his alma mater, Simari served as a professor in cardiology among other roles, at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science.[4]
In March 2014, Simari was named the executive dean for KU's school of medicine.[7] During his time as executive dean, Simari helped create a new curriculum for the school and oversaw the construction of a new education building.[8] In June 2017, Simari was named interim executive vice chancellor for KU Medical Center,[9] and was promoted to the permanent position on January 9, 2018.[10] He continued serving as the school of medicine‘s executive Dean until August 2019 when he hired his successor.[11]
In April 2024, Simari announced his retirement from the University of Kansas. He continued to serve as faculty member until June 30, 2024, and immediately stepped down as executive vice chancellor.[12] During his time as executive vice chancellor, Simari has focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion by creating a new department in 2019.[13] Simari continued to practice cardiology at the University of Kansas Health System until his retirement.[14]
