Dr. Vernard Adams, a native of Maine, has been Chief Medical Examiner for Hillsborough County since 1991. He graduated from the University of Maine at Orono with a B.A. in Chemistry and from Tufts University College of Medicine with a M.D. Degree. His post-graduate pathology training was at the New England Medical Center Hospital, the Mayo Clinic, and the Dade County (Florida) Medical Examiner Department. He is board-certified in anatomical, clinical and forensic pathology, and holds a faculty appointment as Associate Professor of Pathology at the University of South Florida College of Medicine.

Dr. Adams has written numerous scientific publications in the field of forensic pathology and has lectured at several medical conferences. In addition, he is an Associate Professor at the University of South Florida since 1991. Current professional associations include: American Academy of Forensic Sciences, American Medical Association, College of American Pathologists, Florida Association of Medical Examiners (President 1997-98), Florida Medical Association, Hillsborough County Medical Association, and National Association of Medical Examiners.

Awards to Dr. Adams include: "Diversified Workforce Achievement Award," Hillsborough County 7/9/98; "Certificate of Appreciation," Florida Department of Law Enforcement 10/12/92; "Certificate of Appreciation" and "Plaque in Recognition of Excellence," Hillsborough County Government 1992.