Dr. Tomlin Paul’s distinguished academic journey spanned over three decades and encompassed a diverse range of roles in health professions education, public health, and academic leadership. He joined The University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona as a Lecturer in 1990 and advanced through several leadership positions, including Senior Lecturer in Community Health, Director of the Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) Programme, Deputy Dean, and later Dean of the Faculty of Medical Sciences (2017–2021).
 
During his tenure as Dean, Dr. Paul championed academic excellence, student engagement, and institutional innovation. Under his stewardship, the Faculty of Medical Sciences earned the ASPIRE-to-Excellence Award in Medical Education for Social Accountability from the Association for Medical Education in Europe (AMEE), reflecting its leadership in aligning medical education with societal needs. His office was also recognised with the Vice-Chancellor’s Award for Excellence (2020/2021), highlighting his commitment to quality, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
 
Dr. Paul also contributed internationally, serving at the University of Global Health Equity in Rwanda as Chair of the Educational Development and Quality Centre and Dean of Research, Innovation and Quality, where he strengthened partnerships and advanced innovation in health professions’ education. He returned to UWI on August 1, 2023, as Deputy Principal and served with distinction until his passing on March 9, 2026.
 
A recipient of the World Organization of National Colleges, Academies and Academic Associations of General Practitioners/Family Physicians (WONCA) Five-Star Doctor Award, Dr. Paul exemplified the qualities of an outstanding clinician, educator, communicator, and leader. He was a strong advocate for social accountability in medical education and contributed to the development of the Institutional Self-Assessment Social Accountability Tool, now used globally, while also serving on the International Social Accountability and Accreditation Think Tank (ISAATT).
 
Dr. Paul authored and co-authored more than fifty publications, including a book and several book chapters, with research focused on quality in health professions education and socially accountable health systems. He also served as a consultant to regional educational institutions, quality assurance bodies, and the Pan American Health Organization. In recognition of his contributions, he was named a Fellow of the Academy of Medical Educators (United Kingdom) and was a member of the International Higher Education Teaching and Learning Association.

Throughout his career, Dr. Paul was known for his humility, mentorship, and deep commitment to nurturing individuals and strengthening institutions. His leadership was grounded in the human dimensions of education and a steadfast dedication to student success and continuous quality improvement.