BCMS Celebrates a Superfecta of Leadership
By: Melody Newsom, BCMS CEO/Executive Director
The Bexar County Medical Society (BCMS) had a banner weekend at the 2025 TexMed conference, held May 9–10 at the JW Marriott in San Antonio, which brought statewide attention to what I can only describe—fittingly—as a Superfecta of BCMS leadership. For those who know me, you know I spent many years in the horse racing business, so it's no stretch for me to say that seeing five of our own cross the finish line with such impact and recognition was truly a winning ticket for organized medicine in Texas.
Jayesh "Jay" Shah, MD (BCMS President 2016), was officially installed as the President of the Texas Medical Association (TMA). A respected physician and longtime leader in the medical community, Dr. Shah brings deep experience, vision, and passion to this role. His presidency marks a significant milestone for BCMS and the broader Texas medical community, as he continues to advocate for physicians and patients statewide.
David N. Henkes, MD (BCMS President 2005), received the prestigious TMA Distinguished Service Award in honor of his years of dedicated leadership of the Texas Delegation to the American Medical Association (AMA). Dr. Henkes has long been a guiding force at the intersection of state and national medical policy, and this award is a fitting tribute to his steadfast service.
Ezequel "Zeke" Silva, MD (BCMS President 2024), has been making an indelible impact as Chair of the TMA Council on Legislation. In a legislative session marked by complex healthcare issues, Dr. Silva is a near-constant presence at the Texas Capitol—testifying multiple times per week on behalf of physicians and patients. His knowledge, poise, and persistence have made him a trusted advocate under the dome.
John M. Shepherd, MD, the current President of BCMS, has stepped into a key leadership role as the new Chair of TEXPAC, the Texas Medical Association’s Political Action Committee. With a sharp focus on physician advocacy and policy influence, Dr. Shepherd is poised to help shape the future of healthcare in Texas through strategic political engagement.
Rounding out this impressive group is Jenny Shepherd, who continues to serve the medical community with heart and grace. She is the Immediate Past President of the TMA Alliance, Chair of First Tuesdays at the Capitol and is now stepping in as the acting President of the BCMS Alliance, continuing her legacy of support for physicians, their families, and the broader health of the community.
In my 25+ years with BCMS, I have been blessed to work with these and so many other incredible physician leaders. Their dedication and service are not only admirable—they're inspiring.
But this moment isn’t just about recognition—it’s a call to action. Please join these outstanding physicians who are making a real difference in the practice of medicine and our community's health and safety. We need you to get involved. Whether you’re new to organized medicine or a longtime member, your engagement is crucial as we shape the future of healthcare in Texas.
Let’s keep this momentum going—and turn our Superfecta into a winning tradition.
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