Aurora, Colorado – October 19, 2026 -- Four University of Colorado Anschutz faculty members have been elected to the National Academy of Medicine, the largest group the university has had elected in a single year.
The academy elects up to 100 new members annually: up to 90 regular members and 10 international members. Candidates go through a nomination and selection process that evaluates their professional achievements and contributions to health and medicine.
Four physician-researchers join the 2026 class
The 2026 inductees are Lilia Cervantes, Matthew Wynia, Vik Bebarta and Lauren S. Hughes. Their work spans kidney care, bioethics, combat medicine and rural health policy.
Cervantes is a physician-researcher whose work has documented inequities in kidney care for undocumented immigrants. She combines community-engaged research, clinical care and policy advocacy.
Wynia works in bioethics on medical professionalism, healthcare disparities, patient safety and the ethical responsibilities of health professionals.
Bebarta leads military and civilian emergency medicine research
Bebarta is a colonel in the U.S. Air Force Reserve, chair of emergency medicine and founding director of the CU Anschutz Combat Medicine Research Center. His research targets treatments for life-threatening injuries and other medical emergencies in military and civilian settings.
Hughes is a health policy expert focused on strengthening health systems and improving access to high-quality care in rural and underserved communities.
University leaders frame the election as a milestone
CU Anschutz Chancellor Don Elliman said that having four faculty recognized in the same year reflects the depth of talent across the campus. John H. Sampson, dean of the CU Anschutz School of Medicine, said the four School of Medicine faculty exemplify the intellectual leadership and scientific excellence that define the university.
The National Academy of Medicine brings together experts from medicine, science and public health. Its members contribute expertise to initiatives that inform research, practice and public policy.