Jesús Vallejo, M.D. ’89, Res. ’92, senior associate dean of Admissions and professor of Pediatrics and Medicine, was recently appointed dean of the Baylor College of Medicine Temple Campus. In this role, he oversees the full medical education program for the Temple campus, ensuring alignment with the Houston campus and supporting students across both campuses. In our inaugural Faculty Spotlight, Dr. Vallejo shares his vision for the Temple Campus, how families can support their med students and some special insights he has gained over his nearly 30-year career at Baylor.
Q: What makes Baylor unique?
A: For me, Baylor is home. Professionally, I’ve grown up here. I have been a Baylor medical student, a resident, a fellow, a faculty member, an associate dean of Admissions, and now the dean of the Baylor College of Medicine Temple Campus. When students ask why I’ve never left, I always tell them it’s because of the people. There’s something special about walking into work every day and being surrounded by colleagues who truly care about their students and their coworkers. It never feels overly formal. It’s a place where you can be yourself, work hard and know you’re supported. That’s what makes Baylor feel different.
Q: What are you most excited about as you begin leading the Temple Campus?
A: I’m really looking forward to leading the Temple Campus because it already has a strong base and a genuine sense of community. Even though it is still relatively new, you can tell a lot of heart and hard work have gone into building it. What excites me most is getting to know the students, faculty and staff. I want to learn who they are, what they care about and how we can continue to make the Temple Campus feel welcoming and supportive for everyone. I want people to feel comfortable stopping by my office, sharing their ideas and knowing they will be heard. Those everyday connections are what make this work meaningful for me.
Q: How can families play a role in supporting medical students through this journey?
A: Families are such an important part of this journey. Medical school can take a lot out of you, and families help students stay grounded and remember who they are outside of exams and rotations. They’re the ones who see students on their best days and on their most challenging days. It’s clear how much support is behind them when I meet their parents, partners or siblings at White Coat or Match Day.
Q: What do you find most rewarding about working with students every day?
A: Some of the most rewarding moments with medical students are the small shifts you get to witness. For example, when a student who’s been unsure finally trusts their own judgment. Or when they speak to a patient with real compassion, and you can see the doctor they’re becoming. Students are fun to be around. They keep me curious, and they challenge me. They remind me of why I chose this career.
Q: When you are not on campus, what is something that brings you joy or helps you unwind?
A: My family helps me unwind. Some of my favorite moments are just sitting around the table with my wife, my sons and their significant others, sharing a meal and catching up. There are usually at least five dogs hovering for leftovers, and the four cats are acting like they run the place. It’s simple, but it helps me reset and remember what matters.
