Lillian Kao, MD, FSIS, is Professor and Chief of the Division of Acute Care Surgery at McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth Houston). She has been a long-standing member of the Surgical Infection Society since 2003. She has been a member of a number of SIS committees over the years including but not limited to the Membership, Strategic Planning, Fellowship, and By-Laws and Special Projects Committees; she is also a member of the editorial board of Surgical Infections. She has also been a recipient of a number of SIS awards including the Junior Faculty Fellowship Award, Innovation Award, and Multicenter Studies Award. Her research focuses on prevention, risk stratification, and consequences of surgical site infections (SSIs). 

Jeff Upperman, MD, is a retired combat veteran and accomplished trauma surgeon has successfully navigated his institution through operational and financial challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, preserving margins while implementing a national crisis response framework. He is Past President of the Surgical Infection Society (2023-24). Currently serving as Surgeon-in-Chief and Professor of Surgery, Jeff is known for his expertise in crisis management, clinical innovation, and governance within complex healthcare systems. Recognized for his strategic precision, he developed a regional healthcare strategy to secure a stable blood supply and drove significant advancements in nonprofit governance as President of the Surgical Infection Society.

Jeff’s board experience is extensive, with roles that include the National Advisory Committee on Children and Disasters and the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Disaster Preparedness Advisory Committee. His leadership emphasizes collaborative risk oversight, financial accountability, and enhanced governance structures. Additionally, his service on the American Board of Surgery Pediatric Surgery Board highlights his expertise in governance, supported by his financial acumen as Treasurer of the Society of Black Academic Surgeons.

Jeff holds degrees in Human Biology and Sociology from Stanford University, along with an MD from New Jersey Medical School. His dedication to public health preparedness and governance excellence supports board objectives for resilient, strategically focused oversight in times of crisis.