Distinguished emeriti faculty members help propel the medical schoolThe emeriti faculty members of Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine bring great pride to our entire community. During their tenure at Northwestern, these distinguished faculty members have contributed so much to the achievements and life of the medical school. As we look to train the next generation of physician-scientists, it is vital to look to our past successes and accomplishments for direction, clarity, and engagement. On Wednesday, October 6, the emeriti faculty members were celebrated at a luncheon and presentation highlighting how healthcare reform and curriculum changes will impact the Feinberg School.  |
Raymond H. Curry, MD, vice dean for education and professor of medicine, welcomed guests, thanking them for their service to the University and medical school. Following this brief introduction, John F. Snarr, PhD, associate professor emeritus, shared his thoughts on healthcare reform and how it will affect Northwestern University. As several of the luncheon attendees have only recently retired and, in some cases, are still practicing, this topic was particularly applicable and raised many questions. Dr. Snarr addressed these, encouraging a healthy dialogue. John X. Thomas, PhD, senior associate dean for medical education, also discussed the curriculum renewal process that is currently underway at the Feinberg School: “FSM will mentor and educate students to become exceptional, compassionate, and innovative physicians, educators, and researchers. We expect our students to be inquiry-driven team leaders who will serve their patients, society, and profession.” Dr. Thomas previewed the new curriculum, which will increase the focus on professional development and expertise, and introduce clinical medicine experiences across all four years of the curriculum. This new curriculum will provide students the opportunity to guide their own education through “integrated, differentiated, and flexible” scheduling tools. Several current medical school students were also present at the event, and shared their support of this new curriculum, allowing them more flexibility and an increase in interdisciplinary options within the field. The faculty members in the audience seemed pleased with the changes, raised many important questions, and offered recommendations to the steering committee. It was truly inspiring to see these generations of Northwestern emeriti faculty and physicians-in-training exchanging ideas, discussing excellence in medical education, and building a connection through their Northwestern bond. By: Andrea Arntsen-Harris | 
