The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) has given its Distinguished Service Award to John M. Zerwas, MD, chancellor of The University of Texas System. The award, presented on Saturday, is the highest honor from the ASA and recognizes members who have made significant contributions to anesthesiology.
“Dr. Zerwas is deserving of the Distinguished Service Award for his long-time contributions to medicine. He is known for his commitment to education and mentoring,” said ASA President Donald E. Arnold, MD, FACHE, FASA. “Many of our members are grateful for his mentorship, which has empowered colleagues throughout the Society to serve and lead.”
The ASA cited Dr. Zerwas’ work in public service and higher education leadership as key reasons for the award. His efforts in the Texas legislature included advocating for increased access to higher education and expanding graduate medical education opportunities. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he served on Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s Supply Chain Strike Force.
Dr. Zerwas has held several leadership roles within the ASA, including serving as president from 2012-2013, treasurer, assistant treasurer, and as a member of various committees.
“It’s a great honor to be recognized by my fellow anesthesiologists,” said Dr. Zerwas. “I’m blessed to have found my calling in healthcare and education—two noble professions that are profoundly intertwined. As chancellor of Texas’ largest university system, which graduates more than half of the state’s medical doctors each year, I’m grateful that I can continue serving both professions with the shared goal of expanding access to first-class healthcare for all Americans.”
Dr. Zerwas graduated from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston and completed training at The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. He was certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology in 1987 and co-founded a Houston-area group practice that later became part of U.S. Anesthesia Partners in 2012. He joined the UT System in 2019 as executive vice chancellor for Health Affairs before being appointed chancellor on August 20, 2025.
The Distinguished Service Award is given annually for outstanding clinical, educational or scientific achievement, contributions to anesthesiology, and exemplary service to the Society. Dr. Zerwas has also received other honors such as the Dr. Chuck Bauer Award from the Texas Division of Emergency Management (2022), the American Cancer Society Action Network’s National Distinguished Advocacy Award (2019), the American Medical Association’s Dr. Nathan Davis Award for Outstanding Government Service (2020), and the CPRIT Texans Conquer Cancer Award (2023).
Founded in 1905, the American Society of Anesthesiologists represents over 59,000 members who focus on advancing anesthesiology practice and ensuring high standards in patient care before, during, and after surgery.
