2018 North Carolina Awards: Dr. William Roper

In a medical field experiencing rapid change and complex demands, William L. Roper has offered groundbreaking approaches and responsive programs. As CEO of UNC Health Care, dean of the School of Medicine and vice chancellor of Medical Affairs, Roper has an unwavering commitment to improving the health of all North Carolinians. His tenure at UNC has seen an expansion of UNC Health Care to serve rural and urban communities along with development of programs that ensure medical students go on to practice in underserved communities across North Carolina. As director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, he created a strong emphasis on disease prevention, and brought this approach back to North Carolina, leading U.S. News and World Report to rank UNC as America’s number one primary care provider. He also led the creation of safe healing spaces for those diagnosed with mental health, behavioral and substance abuse problems. His innovative approach to medical education and expanding access to affordable care led to his recognition as one of the 100 Most Influential People in Healthcare by “Modern Healthcare.” He is a passionate advocate for better healthcare for all North Carolinians.