Amalia Guardiola, MD

Biography

Amalia Guardiola, MD, is a Professor of Pediatrics at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, where she serves in the Division of Community and General Pediatrics. A dedicated clinician-educator, Dr. Guardiola has decades of experience in pediatric care, medical education, and academic leadership.

Dr. Guardiola earned her BS in Biology, magna cum laude, from the University of Puerto Rico Mayagüez Campus and her MD, also magna cum laude, from the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine. She completed her pediatric residency and a joint primary-care fellowship at UTHealth Houston, where she has remained a vital part of the faculty since 2007.

Dr. Guardiola has held numerous leadership roles in medical education, including director of the pediatric clerkship, course director for multiple rotations, and chair of the clinical education subcommittee. She has been instrumental in curriculum development, including the creation of innovative teaching modules, high-fidelity simulations, and virtual learning platforms. Her work has significantly shaped the pediatric educational experience for medical students and residents.

Nationally recognized for her contributions to medical education, Dr. Guardiola is an active member of the Council on Medical Student Education in Pediatrics (COMSEP), where she serves as a co-leader of the DEI Resource and Advisory Committee and has served in other leadership roles, including co-chair of the annual meeting committee. She is also a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and a member of the Academic Pediatric Association.

Dr. Guardiola’s clinical work spans ambulatory pediatrics and newborn care. She has served as medical director of the pediatric clinic at Spring Branch Community Health Center and currently oversees the well baby nursery at Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital.

Her dedication to mentorship, diversity, and excellence in teaching has earned her numerous accolades, including the Dean’s Teaching Excellence Award (multiple years), the Award of Champions of the Learning Environment (multiple years), and induction into the Academy of Master Educators. She is a frequent speaker at local, regional, and national conferences and has contributed to peer-reviewed publications, educational materials, and public health outreach, particularly within the Spanish-speaking community.