As an unusual and unprecedented academic year nears its close, the Office of Student Life is reaching out to students with messages of support from faculty and staff.
“I want to express to members of our student body how appreciative I am for how they’ve adapted to these changing times,” said Chancellor Michael F. Collins in a new video capturing faculty voices from the UMass Medical School community. “I also want to thank them for all they’ve done in our community, whether it’s local in Worcester, or beyond.”
UMMS quickly switched to remote learning for students in March as the COVID-19 pandemic emerged. The School of Medicine Class of 2020 was the first in the nation to graduate early, in a virtual ceremony, so graduates could begin serving on the front lines. Virtual commencement ceremonies are now planned for May 31 for the Graduate School of Nursing and the Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences.
“You have continued to advance in your curriculum, you’ve defended PhD theses and you’ve graduated early to join our medical work force,” said Brian Lewis, PhD, associate professor of molecular, cell & cancer biology, and assistant vice provost of outreach and recruitment.
Students formed a COVID19 task force, organizing their own volunteer projects and initiatives to benefit hospitals and medical staff during this time of need.
“You have found the time to volunteer at the DCU center, other clinical sites in Worcester and throughout the state; and make buckets of hand sanitizer for our essential employees,” Dr. Lewis said.
Mary Ellen Lane, PhD, dean of GSBS, added, “I’ve been really impressed with the ways that you’ve all come together to support each other and the community.”
“Daily I am inspired by you, by our entire community, who are learning and being creative, innovative, caring, supportive and strong,” said Melissa Fischer, MD, MEd, professor of medicine and associate dean for undergraduate medical education.
“I want you to know that we are here for you,” said Joan Vitello, PhD, dean of the Graduate School of Nursing. “Please stay connected with us, let us know how we can be of help to you.”
