“Today I choose to live with gratitude for the love that fills my heart, the peace that rests within my spirit, and the voice of hope that says all things are possible.” Anonymous
As Senior Associate Dean for Education, I have the opportunity to meet a number of people who are interviewing for positions here at Washington University School of Medicine. Almost to a person, they ask me why I chose to come to Wash U and what I enjoy most about being here. It’s an easy question to answer.
I came for the opportunity to do something I am truly passionate about- working with others to train some of the world’s finest physicians and scientists. I came with the hope of creating something that is extraordinary and differentiating- a program that builds on the strengths and history of a truly outstanding medical school; uses evidence-based educational practices wherever they exist; improves on what others have done; and innovates in the face of known challenges. And I came to be a part of the St Louis community- to partner with others to see if we can make necessary changes in our city, our society, and the inequities and disparities that exist everywhere.
I expected to be awed at the science, clinical innovation, and people of this amazing place, but I was unprepared for how truly exceptional the work you all do is. Miracles happen here every day, really. It is truly awesome (from the definition: inspiring an overwhelming feeling of reverence, admiration, or fear). Moreover, I was not expecting to be surrounded with so many people of remarkable humility, kindness and collaboration. It is this combination of opportunity and the people who I have the ability to work with every day that truly fill me with gratitude for the work I am privileged to do.
This Thanksgiving, I was blessed to spend time with my family and friends- people who have supported me throughout my career, in personal struggles, health and suffering. As my children move into adulthood, go off to college, and my parents age, I am ever more mindful of the importance of this incredible network of people who support me every day. Here at Wash U, that circle includes my work family- the staff and faculty who continually “have my back”, push me to be better, challenge me, and support me when things are hard.
As we move away from Thanksgiving and into the hustle and bustle of the December holidays, let me simply say this…. Thank you for inspiring me, challenging me, helping me, and for all you do to make Wash U the exceptional place that it is. I am truly grateful.
