Anesthesia Chair Emeritus Re-elected to Fourth Term on the NYS Board of Regents

By Office of the President | Mar 19, 2024

James E. Cottrell, M.D., Distinguished Service Professor and Chair Emeritus of Anesthesiology, has been reelected for a fourth term as a member-at-large of the New York State Board of Regents. This reelection speaks to his long-lasting commitment and expertise in shaping educational policy across the state. Dr. Cottrell has knowledge and experience, particularly in licensed professions such as medicine and nursing. reflects the legislature’s confidence in his invaluable contributions to this influential body.

As a distinguished leader with roles at the state, national, and international levels, Dr. Cottrell is exceptionally positioned to serve on the Board of Regents. His extensive experience in medical education equips him with a profound understanding of the diverse needs of students, educators, and institutions. Moreover, he possesses a unique ability to navigate the complexities of educational policy, comprehend various stakeholder perspectives, and foster consensus on contentious issues.

Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Cottrell has profoundly impacted many who have had the privilege of working and training with him. He joined Downstate from NYU in 1979 and led the Department of Anesthesiology for nearly four decades, establishing a department renowned nationally and internationally for its excellence. Dr. Cottrell stepped down from his position as chair of the department in 2018, leaving behind a legacy of exceptional leadership and dedication to advancing education and healthcare.

Dr. Cottrell is widely regarded as an exceptional clinician, researcher, educator, and leader, earning recognition as one of the most esteemed neuro-anesthesiologists of our time. His profound impact on the field of neuro-anesthesiology is paralleled by his contributions to the advancement of anesthesiology as a whole. Notably, he served as president of the American Society of Anesthesiologists and was honored with its prestigious Distinguished Service Award in 2010. Furthermore, he held the esteemed position of editor-in-chief of the Journal of Neurosurgical Anesthesiology for numerous years.

Dr. Cottrell exemplifies a steadfast commitment to community service. He played a pivotal role as a founding chair of the AIDS Action Foundation and dedicated extensive time to serving on the board of God’s Love We Deliver. During a sabbatical in 1987, he served as a Health Policy Advisor to Senator Edward M. Kennedy, then Chair of the Health and Human Services Subcommittee, demonstrating his commitment to advancing public health initiatives beyond clinical practice and academia.

Congratulations, Dr. Cottrell, on your continued service to the NYS Board of Regents, and thank you for your profound impact on the field of neuro-anesthesiology and your steadfast commitment to community service.