Editor’ s POV:
CDU’ s Epic Journey to Eminence
With this colossal, unprecedented $ 75 Million gift from Michael Bloomberg and his visionary foundation, our beloved University has certainly turned another corner in this journey that we humbly call our Mission. Let us briefly recap the Sharpest Scalpel story as we view this moment of Blessed Providence.
When Deborah Prothrow-Stith commissioned the birth of this publication, the timing was propitious. From the moment he was installed as President and CEO, David Carlisle had been steadfast in fulfilling the tireless quest to eradicate health disparities. Sylvia Drew-Ivie, unbeknownst to her at the time, had uttered a memorable phrase that the Dean thought would be a great name for the quarterly.
This editor was eager to carry forth the pledge to establish a framework for the University to articulate its own narrative and messaging, a sharp break from the days when CDU meant a variety of different things to a variety of different constituents.
As stated, the original aim of the publication was to control our own narrative about the inner workings of our institution. Deliver truthful, engaging stories centered around the tireless people who work with conviction, commitment and passion.
COVID-19 came along, and we turned the blinding, staggering pandemic pandemonium into some of the most compelling stories emanating from the South End. You read about the courageous work of heroes like Dr. Jerry Abraham at Kedren. You saw Dr. Jimmy Hara suited and booted, keeping diligent watch in his Fire Commissioner responsibility as cars queued up in the entryway fronting the Cobb Building. People anxiously waiting to be tested. Students and community volunteers helping to get people vaccinated. Everyone welcome; everyone playing a part, meanwhile keeping hope alive.
When COVID-19 abated to a degree, the Scalpel featured indication of the return of much-needed bright moments: Commencements, White Coat ceremonies, announcements of research grant awards, the arrival of new and talented professionals, and the anticipated opening of the new medical school.
People profiles, new curriculum offerings, and commentary about the University’ s international programs. CDU teams’ trips to Zambia and Cuba were warmly acknowledged by our committed readers. Just about every level of employee from each college represented in these pages.
We heard from the Deans of the colleges extolling the virtues of the CDU Advantage, and lofty national rankings bestowed upon respected on campus programs. Recognition for diversity and achievement through the steady stream of significant grants coming our way. The research engine chugging along at a high motor. The Scalpel began new features that have led to new insights, e. g., the recent Hispanic Footprint in American Medicine.
And, of course, running commentary chronicling the wonderful story unfolding with the new 4-year medical program. Latest developments include the enrollment of the new school’ s MS1 2028 cohort, and the upcoming groundbreaking for the Health Professions Education Building. This is an exciting time to be alive and contributing at this University. May you benefit wholly from your own work and from the people whom you meet along the way.
Finally, we acknowledge the great work of departing colleagues Dr. Shahrzad“ Shazzy” Bazargan and Dr. Sylvia Manning. Both of you put us over the finish line with your brilliance, your selflessness, your wit, and your thoughtful, engaging insights. Your inspirational presence remains in spirit. We’ ll see you soon.
Postscript: the accompanying picture depicts the editor with CDU ballcap fronting the Musee Picassso in Paris two weeks prior to the 2024 Olympics. At that moment, I was in receipt of the convivial treat of much-needed psychological sunshine and oo-la-la. Paris in July? Très magnifique.
Lance A. Williams Editor
CDU College of Medicine | PG. 6