Robert E. Tranquada, MD, dean of the Keck School of Medicine of USC from 1986 to 1991, died on Dec. 4, 2022 at the age of 92.

Tranquada was a diabetes researcher and public health advocate who was instrumental in increasing access to health care for underserved communities across Los Angeles County. In his time as the dean of the school, he negotiated an agreement with Los Angeles County for the provision of care at Los Angeles County + USC Medical Center, adopted a new governance model that empowered the school’s medical faculty and significantly increased enrollment of underrepresented students. Notably, he also led the creation of a new private teaching hospital — Keck Hospital of USC. As a nationally recognized leader, he chaired the American Association of Medical College’s Council of Deans.

In addition to his careers in education and public health, Tranquada was a prominent philanthropist.  Survivors include Janet, his wife of 71 years; children John, Jim and Kate; grandchildren Matt, Jessica and Alex Tranquada; and his sister, Carolyn Prestwich.

To read the Keck School’s full obituary, click here.