Marking extraordinary milestones
As we celebrate Vanderbilt University School of Medicine’s sesquicentennial, I find myself reflecting on the remarkable journey that brings us to this moment. For 150 years, Vanderbilt has been at the forefront of biomedical science, education and patient care.
We each spent time learning and connecting in the halls and clinics of this storied institution, absorbing the lessons that would propel our lives of service to patient care and research.
The buildings have changed, and so has the technology, since the first class of students came to this campus to learn — but the spirit and commitment to a healthier tomorrow remains as resolute as ever.
It’s amazing to stroll through the History of Medicine Collections at the Annette and Irwin Eskind Family Biomedical Library and Learning Center. This collection of more than 15,000 volumes and artifacts bears testament to Vanderbilt’s legacy, each item telling a story of progress, determination and healing. (See pages 20-21.)
Yet even the past year has brought significant milestones.
Our commitment to pioneering health care is exemplified by LifeFlight’s 40th anniversary. From its inception in 1984, this program has completed nearly 77,000 flights and helped over 80,000 patients. Alongside it, Angel Transport marked its golden anniversary, reminding us how ingenuity and a commitment to saving lives can change reality. An intrepid Vanderbilt engineer worked with the legendary VUSM alumna Mildred Stahlman on the conversion of a panel truck into Vanderbilt’s first pediatric transport vehicle — a testament to the innovative spirit that defines us. (See pages 22-27.)
Today, that same spirit drives Vanderbilt’s leadership in pediatric gene therapy. At Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt, we’re witnessing miracles as children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy regain their ability to run and play! As one of the first programs to offer these leading-edge therapies, we’re advancing the art of the possible while transforming lives. (See pages 28-31.)
Every day, I witness our alumni, faculty and students pushing boundaries, challenging conventions and improving lives, and I remember why I am proud to be a part of this community. Even as our amazing Vanderbilt history shapes us, our continued dedication to innovation, education and compassionate, personalized care defines us — attracting students and faculty to join us in leading the innovation that reshapes care here in Middle Tennessee and worldwide.
Here’s to making history for the next 150 years.
Jeff Balser, MD, PhD
President and CEO, Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Dean, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine