The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) has awarded its highest honor, the Distinguished Service Award, to John M. Zerwas, MD, chancellor of The University of Texas System. The award, presented on Saturday, recognizes Dr. Zerwas for his significant contributions to anesthesiology, public service, and higher education leadership.
“Dr. Zerwas is deserving of the Distinguished Service Award for his long-time contributions to medicine. He is known for his commitment to education and mentoring,” said ASA President Donald E. Arnold, MD, FACHE, FASA. “Many of our members are grateful for his mentorship, which has empowered colleagues throughout the Society to serve and lead.”
The ASA highlighted Dr. Zerwas’ advocacy for increased access to higher education and expanded opportunities for graduate medical education during his time in the Texas legislature. His role during the COVID-19 pandemic, including service on Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s Supply Chain Strike Force, was also noted. Dr. Zerwas previously served as ASA president from 2012-2013 and held various other leadership roles within the organization.
“It’s a great honor to be recognized by my fellow anesthesiologists,” said Dr. Zerwas. “I’m blessed to have found my calling in healthcare and education—two noble professions that are profoundly intertwined. As chancellor of Texas’ largest university system, which graduates more than half of the state’s medical doctors each year, I’m grateful that I can continue serving both professions with the shared goal of expanding access to first-class healthcare for all Americans.”
Dr. Zerwas graduated from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston and completed training at The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. He was certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology in 1987. In 1996, he co-founded a Houston-area group practice that later became part of U.S. Anesthesia Partners in 2012. Dr. Zerwas joined the UT System in 2019 as executive vice chancellor for Health Affairs and was appointed chancellor on August 20, 2025.
The ASA presents its Distinguished Service Award annually to individuals demonstrating outstanding clinical, educational, or scientific achievement and exemplary service to the specialty. Dr. Zerwas’ previous recognitions include awards from organizations such as the Texas Division of Emergency Management, American Cancer Society Action Network, American Medical Association, and CPRIT Texans Conquer Cancer.
The ASA represents more than 59,000 members who focus on advancing anesthesiology practice and patient care standards.
