A message from Dean Jack D. Sobel, M.D.

February 8, 2019

Thank you for your commitment to the Wayne State University School of Medicine! Through your support and involvement, we have developed new programs and exciting initiatives that continue to propel our mission and prepare the next generation of physician and scientific leaders. In this new year, we look forward to driving ahead with the school's goals for a brighter medical landscape in Detroit and beyond. Philanthropic partnership fuels that desire and sense of direction, and in this edition of Giving Matters we explore the wide range of generous donors and their impact as we take our first step into the next sesquicentennial for the School of Medicine.

I am excited to share with you several articles that speak to our priorities as an institution of medical education. Philanthropists who give to the School of Medicine support a variety of initiatives that help our medical students become the best health care providers within the state, nation and around the globe. Our School of Medicine leadership continues this momentum as we look ahead to new fundraising priorities and opportunities.

Scholarship has always been one of my passions, and our tremendous philanthropic partners have shown an outpouring of dedication to our students throughout the Pivotal Moments campaign. Now, we hope to build on this solid foundation and ensure that each of our students has access to our leading-edge medical education and training, regardless of their economic standing. With our new Highways to Excellence curriculum, I have no doubt that our students will continue to uphold the Wayne legacy of excellence, determination and patient-centered care.

Along with the new curriculum come additional priorities. Our Wayne Warrior M.D. Learning Communities, for example, provide students with the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with each other and their faculty mentors. As one of the largest medical schools in the country last year we were within the nation's top ten in terms of class size we strive to make our robust medical campus feel smaller for students. In doing so, we continue to cultivate an environment in which our students can reach their highest potential. Thankfully, our alumni, friends and supporters share in this goal, allowing us to build new pathways for students to experience an enlightening education, engage in groundbreaking research and impact the communities around us.

Once again, it is my pleasure to thank you for your partnership, your vision and your ongoing interest in the WSU School of Medicine.

Jack D. Sobel, M.D.
Dean
Distinguished Professor
Wayne State University School of Medicine