Born in China and raised in Chicago, Dr. Jeanne Wei came to Metro Little Rock in 2002 to serve as professor and executive vice chair of the Donald W. Reynolds department of geriatrics at UAMS. In 2009, she received her current title at UAMS as executive director of the Donald W. Reynolds Institute on Aging and chair of the department of geriatrics. She calls Little Rock’s lively River Market District home, which she said she loves for its many restaurants, shops, museums and libraries.

What is your role at the Donald W. Reynolds Institute on Aging? I am privileged to work in a wonderful place where we are able to combine education, research and clinical care all under one roof, which is unique in the nation. I see patients as a geriatrician and cardiologist in the Thomas & Lyon Longevity Center, where it’s our goal to provide individualized, patient-centered care. Our patients have given so much throughout their lives. We love be able to give back to them as we support both our patients and their caregivers throughout their life’s journey.

What do you love most about the River Market District? Living in the River Market allows me to enjoy the heart and soul of Little Rock. It’s a short walk to many wonderful places, including restaurants and shops, the farmers market, the Clinton Presidential Library and Robinson Center Music Hall.

What does UAMS bring to the area? UAMS was recently recognized by U.S. News & World Report as having the best hospital in the central Arkansas metropolitan area. It is the state’s only comprehensive academic health center, with colleges of medicine, nursing, pharmacy, health-related professions and public health. UAMS has 2,836 students and 761 medical residents. It is the state’s largest public employer with more than 10,000 employees, including nearly 1,150 physicians who provide medical care to patients at UAMS, Arkansas Children’s Hospital, the VA Medical Center and UAMS’ Area Health Education Centers and Centers on Aging throughout the state. UAMS also treats more multiple myeloma cancer patients than any facility in the world.

Any advice or tips for Metro LR newcomers? Take your time and be sure to enjoy the charm and hospitality of this beautiful “city-inside-a forest.”

Best local event? The River Market food festivals and the Central Arkansas Library System’s book sales.

Local Favorites

Restaurants: One of my favorite restaurants is Copper Grill, and another is Brave New Restaurant. The house specials, including appetizers, are fantastic at both places.
Things to do: Enjoying the beautiful parks, hiking and listening to classical music.

Say Hello
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
4301 W. Markham St.
Little Rock
(501) 686-6236