As we observe the Fourth of July and head into what may be a long weekend for many, I want to take a moment to share my appreciation for all the faculty, staff, trainees and students who work as a cohesive team to support our missions in the School of Medicine and at UVA Health. There is no better day than July 4th to celebrate the spirit of independence and innovation that has made our Nation and School so great.
The month of July is a time of transition in the School of Medicine. We’ve bid farewell to our graduating students and trainees, concluded the previous academic year, and begin to eagerly anticipate exciting things to come in the 2024-25 academic year.
Our graduating students and trainees were a remarkable group that contributed in countless ways to our four mission areas: education, clinical, research and community. If you missed watching the celebratory graduation video, you can view it here. We’re also proud of our clinicians, researchers and team members who wholeheartedly serve our patients and work together to pursue scientific discoveries that will benefit all of us in Virginia and across our Nation and the world.
As we continue planning for the fall, we are thrilled to welcome the next group of enthusiastic learners, along with some fabulous new faculty, and the energy and ideas they will bring to our School. It is the collective effort of our whole team that keeps us at the forefront of excellent patient care, rigorous education, innovative research, and community engagement.
I want to wish all of you a wonderful and safe Independence Day. As we enjoy picnics, fireworks, and some downtime with family and friends, I hope we all take a moment to reflect on the rights and freedoms our Nation was founded on, those who fought to preserve them and those who answer the call to uphold and preserve the rights and freedom we continue to enjoy as Americans today.
On this Independence Day and every day, we have much to be thankful for: our liberty, limitless opportunities and hope for the future, and of course, everyone here at this amazing School of Medicine.
With gratitude,
Melina R. Kibbe, MD
Dean, UVA School of Medicine
Filed Under: Dean's Message, Featured