Dr. Lee joined the University in 1990 and has served as Chair of the Department of Public Health Sciences since its establishment as a freestanding department. Under his leadership, the department has grown into a nationally respected academic and research enterprise, consistently ranked among the top NIH-funded public health departments in the country.
During his tenure, Dr. Lee helped transform the department’s graduate training programs, expanding offerings to include new master’s and doctoral degrees, developing dual-degree programs, and launching the department’s first online public health programs. He championed academic innovation with a focus on interdisciplinarity, equity, and student mentorship, values that continue to shape the department’s identity today.
As a scholar, Dr. Lee has been continuously funded by the NIH and CDC since the early 1990s. He served as Principal Investigator of the Florida Cancer Data System, one of the largest and longest-running statewide cancer registries in the nation. He is a prolific researcher and mentor, having authored more than 275 peer-reviewed publications and co-authored dozens of student-led articles. His research has advanced understanding in occupational and environmental health, cancer epidemiology, aging, tobacco control, and Latino health.
In addition to his scientific achievements, Dr. Lee has been a committed educator for more than 30 years, developing and teaching graduate-level courses, mentoring doctoral and master’s students, and serving on more than 30 dissertation committees. He is deeply respected for his thoughtful, student-centered approach and for cultivating an environment where faculty, staff, and students feel supported, heard, and inspired to grow.
Beyond the department, Dr. Lee has played a key role in shaping public health training and practice across the University of Miami. His leadership has fostered enduring partnerships with other schools and units, including the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, and strengthened the department’s engagement with national research networks and community-based organizations.
While Dr. Lee has stepped down from his administrative leadership roles, he will continue to contribute to the department as a part-time faculty member. We are grateful that his wisdom, mentorship, and institutional knowledge will remain part of our academic community.
"Dr. Lee’s dedication to our department and our mission has been steadfast," said Kathryn McCollister, Ph.D., who has been appointed Interim Chair of the Department of Public Health Sciences. "On a personal note, I am especially grateful for the mentorship he provided me, particularly during the early stages of my career. His guidance has been invaluable, and his example of thoughtful, mindful leadership is one I hope to follow."
Please join us in extending our deepest gratitude to Dr. Lee for his visionary leadership, tireless service, and enduring commitment to public health. His legacy will continue to shape the department and inspire the next generation of public health professionals.
Department of Public Health Sciences, July 1, 2025.
