New Dean Named for Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine
Posted on February 4, 2026
After a nationwide search, the University of South Alabama has named Dr. Jeffrey S. LaRochelle dean of the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine. He begins May 4.
LaRochelle will assume leadership at a pivotal moment as the Whiddon College of Medicine’s new, 250,000-square-foot building is set to open in early 2027.
“There was a great deal of interest in this position from across the country, but Dr. LaRochelle’s vision, background and expertise distinguished him as an exceptional candidate,” said Dr. Andi Kent, executive vice president and provost. “I’m delighted that he has accepted the deanship of the Whiddon College of Medicine, and under his leadership, South’s commitment to innovative biomedical education and research will continue to strengthen and expand.”
LaRochelle comes to South from the University of Central Florida, where he most recently held the position of associate dean of academic affairs and professor of medicine. At UCF, he also served as assistant dean of medical education.
An internal medicine specialist, LaRochelle is also a retired colonel with 25 years of service in the United States Air Force. He was also an assistant chief of medicine at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center.
“What struck me first was the passion all the faculty, staff and students had for South,” LaRochelle said. “There was a similar camaraderie to what I felt when I was active duty in the Air Force. Everyone at South felt like they were an important part of something bigger, a real sense of family. I am truly humbled and excited to be part of that family striving to achieve even more for our school and community.”
LaRochelle received his medical degree and Master of Public Health from the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences in Bethesda, Maryland, after earning undergraduate degrees in microbiology and English from the University of Florida.
The University of South Alabama is one of only two universities in Alabama that grant medical degrees. The Whiddon College of Medicine also offers a Ph.D. through its basic medical sciences program. In addition to state-of-the-art medical research facilities, the new building will allow for expanding the cohort of first-year medical students from 80 to 100 with the capability of increasing to 120 in the future.
“For more than half a century, the University of South Alabama’s medical school has played a vital role in Mobile and throughout the region,” said USA President Jo Bonner. “Today, we stand on the precipice of an even greater opportunity to advance healthcare for our community, Alabama, and beyond. I am thrilled that Dr. LaRochelle will be part of this next chapter of our growth and success.”
