Alumni Ambassador of the Year Richard Tenure Keeps Students Engaged

Ross University School of Medicine (RUSM) graduate Richard Tenure, MD ’14, was first on the scene when he witnessed a car accident in front of his apartment in South Miami, FL. Using his skills as a former firefighter, he helped get the patient to the hospital. His interest in cardiac pathology began when he later learned that the patient had passed away from an aortic rupture. “I realized I wanted to be on the front line in critical care, helping patients who have cardiac events and be in the intensive care unit,” says Tenure. “That was the beginning of my career in cardiac anesthesiology.” 

Originally from Nesconset, NY, Tenure began his career in biomedical engineering but became interested in-patient care after working in emergency medical service as a volunteer firefighter. 

Now an adult cardiothoracic anesthesiology fellow at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, Tenure is grateful to train at the No. 5 ranked hospital on the U.S. News and World Report’s Best Hospitals Honor Roll. “I get to work on the most complex cases with some of the best surgeons in the world. Every day I go to work, I provide vital care for patients who need my expertise. I want to give back to current RUSM students to help them reach their career goals so they can have that same experience.”  

Paying It Forward

To give back, Tenure mentors RUSM students preparing for the National Resident Matching Program® (The MATCH ℠) process. “I provide feedback and tips for students to be more effective,” Tenure said, detailing his 10-minute simulated interview and review of student interview packets. "I show students how to highlight their strengths to stand out among candidates. There are lots of questions—from etiquette to presentation—that people need to learn how to address. Students need to learn how to sell themselves for a residency spot in five minutes.”  

Additionally, he participates in RUSM’s Alumni Appreciation Week and offers insights on his YouTube podcast, “Catch the Beat,” highlighting what it takes to be a successful cardiac anesthesiologist. “I want to play a part in helping guide students through all the milestones of medical school, so they can be successful in mastering any obstacles.” 

After his fellowship, Tenure plans to work in the ICU and cardiac anesthesia, as well as complete board certifications in critical care echocardiography. He hopes to continue teaching medical students and residents throughout his career.  

Learn More

The RUSM Alumni Ambassador of the Year Award recognizes alumni who have played a critical role in the University’s continued success and are highly engaged in RUSM student and alumni programming. Learn more about the selection criteria for our Alumni awards, and how to connect with Alumni ambassadors.