Radiology has been an integral part of the Indiana University School of Medicine since its early days. Officially established as a department in 1947 with Raymond Cole Beeler, MD, as its first chair, radiology had previously been a division within the Department of Medicine. Since then, the department has become one of the largest academic radiology departments in the United States.
Early Years and Growth
Raymond Beeler, MD
1947–1955Beeler was instrumental in strengthening the university’s medical education program. He expanded the faculty, grew the section and acquired new equipment, setting the foundation for future growth.
Headshot of Raymond Beeler, circa 1947.
John Campbell, MD
1955–1970Campbell’s leadership, the department achieved significant development, positioning IU School of Medicine as one of the nation’s leading medical schools by 1970.
John Campbell and a trainee group with x-ray equipment.
Visionary Leadership and Expansion
Eugene Klatte, MD
1971–1991Klatte’s tenure saw enormous growth. He was a visionary who expanded the department’s space and services, acquiring more efficient equipment and making IU School of Medicine a major academic radiology center.
Eugene Klatte and colleagues, circa 1992.
Robert Holden, MD
1991–1995Holden focused on teaching, clinical radiology, and basic research. His vision and resourcefulness further advanced the department's mission.
Robert Holden, circa 1995.
Mervyn Cohen, MBChB, MD
1995–2002Cohen’s tenure was marked by innovation and faculty empowerment. He introduced a strong business approach, setting future goals and strategic initiatives aimed at achieving excellence in clinical care, teaching, research and service.
Mervyn Cohen with a young patient at Riley Hospital, circa 1996.
Modern Advancements
Valerie Jackson, MD
2002–2014Jackson unified radiology services for the newly established Clarian Health Partners and significantly expanded the full-time faculty. The imaging sciences research division thrived under Gary Hutchins, PhD, during her leadership.
Valerie Jackson with a mammography machine.
Himanshu Shah, MD
2014–2021Shah continued to lead the department towards excellence until his appointment as president of IU Health Physicians and executive associate dean for clinical affairs at IU School of Medicine.
Jeffrey Dunkle, MD
Interim Chair 2021–2023Dunkle provided guidance and expert insight during his tenure as interim chair amid a nationwide search for a permanent leader.
Current Leadership
Jason Allen, MD, PhD
2023–presentOn October 1, 2023, Jason Allen began his tenure as the department chair. Faculty, trainees and staff are excited for the new phase of growth and innovation under his leadership.
