Dr. William L. Henrich, a central figure in the transformation of The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, has died at 77, the institution announced. Henrich passed away yesterday morning following unexpected complications from his second stem cell transplantation. A respected nephrologist and author of a leading dialysis textbook, Henrich's presidency lasted from 2009 to 2024, a period marked by substantial growth and the expansion of the institution’s facilities.
Hailed for his visionary leadership, Henrich is credited with steering UT Health San Antonio through dynamic changes and challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. In a statement obtained by FOX San Antonio, the school’s acting president Dr. Rob Hromas and Chancellor James B. Milliken expressed deep sorrow, characterizing Henrich as a "joy to work with." Hromas added, "This is a devastating loss to all of us, and we hope your fond memories of Dr. Henrich carry you through the days and years ahead."
Hromas and Milliken further remarked on the iconic nature of Henrich's laugh, which they predicted would resonate "through our corridors for many years." As per details provided by Express News, Henrich's efforts in leading the university through a period defined by expansion and a doubling of its expense budget from $668 million in 2009 to $1.46 billion today were especially highlighted.
Throughout his tenure, Henrich actively pursued to considerably advance the city’s healthcare and biomedical research infrastructure. Among his noted achievements were the initiation of transformative projects such as the UT Health San Antonio Multispecialty and Research Hospital, the Center for Brain Health, and UT Health at Kyle Seale Parkway. UT Health San Antonio is recognized as a primary driver for San Antonio’s $44.1 billion health care and biosciences sector, which has seen its influence grow significantly under Henrich's guidance. Dr. Larry Schlesinger, president and CEO of Texas Biomedical Research Institute, told Express News, "We have lost a giant in our community and on the national stage," attesting to Henrich's impact both professionally and personally.
Dr. Henrich is survived by his wife, Mary, their two children, and five grandchildren. The legacy he leaves behind is that of dedication, selflessness, and leadership, characteristics lauded by colleagues and those who knew him personally. Memorial service announcements for Dr. Henrich will be forthcoming as the university community, and San Antonio at large, mourn a leader whose influence stretched far beyond the confines of the academic health center he so passionately served.
