Teaching roots run deep in the medicial profession

Colleagues,

It never ceases to amaze me how quickly time passes. As my first year as Associate Dean of the Schulich Medicine – Windsor Campus comes to an end. It seems that some public reflection may be in order. There is much to be proud of, but certainly work to be done.

In considering where we excel, there is no doubt in my mind that our faculty of this Campus have consistently gone above and beyond to ensure that the next generation of physicians is well taught, pushed to be better and supportive when necessary. There is no bigger compliment to your efforts than the frequency in which new graduates reach out to be involved in education as well. This is because of your mentorship and for this, I want to thank you.

The first phase of our curriculum renewal begins in the fall of 2019. As with any change, I expect that there will be growing pains and hiccups. The new overreaching courses have strong local leadership and this community of faculty have shown time and time again how willing and ready you are rise to any occasion. Because of all of you, I know that we will be successful, and at times where we struggle, I know we will work together to find the best local solution.

Despite this success, I am certainly aware that among some of you, this School has promises to fulfill still. Balancing the clinical demands on your departments, your clinics, your waitlists, and the School’s asks, are at times, challenging. I certainly understand and can empathize with your struggles. 

This year at convocation, one of our colleagues reminded the graduates and audience that the term doctor comes from the Latin, docere, or, to teach. We teach our colleagues, our patients, their families, and friends and, of course, our students. These teaching roots run deep in our noble profession and in this region. I am now, and will always be, willing to work with all of you to grow as teachers, but temper our asks if the burden becomes too great. Please don’t wait for the tipping point to reach out or walk away. Let’s continue to work together and build the system we can all be proud of. 

This academic year has come to an end, but the work here is just beginning. It has been my absolute honour to oversee this next phase of this school’s growth. Many exciting opportunities are coming. I can’t wait to share this experience with all of you.

As always, thank you for your hard work and dedication.

Larry

Twitter: @larry_jacobs1