BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — D'Youville University announced that Dr. Shawn Cannon will step down as Dean of the College of Osteopathic Medicine, marking a significant leadership change as the Buffalo institution prepares to welcome its first medical school class.
The university praised Cannon's contributions during the college's founding and pre-accreditation process but declined to comment beyond its official press release.
"Dr. Cannon played an instrumental role in helping D'Youville achieve pre-accreditation and in laying the groundwork for Buffalo's first new medical school in nearly two centuries. We are grateful for his leadership and for the strong foundation he helped establish as we move confidently toward welcoming our inaugural class."
The university said it has submitted a transition plan to the Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (COCA) and is awaiting approval before announcing Dr. Cannon's successor.
"The College of Osteopathic Medicine continues to move forward at full speed. Applications for the inaugural class remain strong, and interviews for Fall 2026 medical students are already underway."
In a now-deleted LinkedIn post, Dr. Cannon was critical of the university, sharing that he needed more communication, transparency and resources. Cannon declined to comment further at this time and said he retained an attorney.
WATCH: Dean of D'Youville Medical School stepping down
Plans to launch the College of Osteopathic Medicine were announced in June. When we spoke to President Clemo, she said the project addresses a critical need to increase the number of physicians.
"We know that across the country we have a shortage currently of 48,000 primary care physicians," Clemo said. "And in New York State, every county but two has a shortage of healthcare professionals as well."
Dr. Cannon joined Voices when the College of Osteopathic Medicine was proposed in February. You can watch the full conversation below.
The College of Osteopathic Medicine will be housed at 285 Delaware Avenue, formerly home to M&T Bank, located just off Chippewa Street. The location was chosen for its central access and potential to drive economic activity in the downtown core.
