05/21/2026
Rest in peace Dr. Cantrell 💜
The UVA Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery mourns the loss of Dr. Robert W. Cantrell — visionary leader, distinguished surgeon, educator, mentor, and beloved member of the UVA community.
Dr. Cantrell served as the first full-time Chair of UVA OTOHNS for 20 years, beginning in 1976, and later as the EVP and Provost of the UVA Health System. His impact on our department, institution, and specialty is immeasurable.
That same year, he founded the Fitz-Hugh Symposium, which remains a respected and enduring tradition within our department and the Otolaryngology community today.
Dr. Cantrell dedicated decades of service to the American Board of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, serving as an examiner for 24 years, a Director for 18 years, and Executive Vice President from 1990–1998. Through these roles, he helped shape the education, training, and certification of generations of Otolaryngologists nationwide.
A decorated Navy physician, internationally respected academic leader, and lifelong advocate for education and innovation, Dr. Cantrell devoted his life to service — to his patients, trainees, colleagues, country, and family. Beyond his extraordinary accomplishments, he will be remembered for his kindness, wisdom, generosity, and deeply human approach to leadership and mentorship.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Cantrell family and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy continues to shape UVA OTOHNS and the broader Otolaryngology community. In honor of the foundation he helped build, we will be sharing more about UVA OTOHNS’ longstanding history with the American Board of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery in the coming days.
