As the end of 2020 quickly approaches, I'd like to take a moment to share with you some of the things that I’m particularly thankful for within the School of Medicine.
2020 was unlike any other year, and I was consistently impressed by the tenacity of our remarkable faculty, staff, students, and trainees who worked together and developed the best results. We learned so much about ourselves this year. Our capacity to persevere and overcome, our fortitude, and our ability to unite as a team. In my opinion, teamwork has been the word of 2020. Back in March, when a large portion of the School of Medicine entered remote or hybrid status, we learned a new definition of a team.
We spent tireless hours taking care of our patients and driving outcomes from our research, all connected by Zoom. We worked not only to complete our routine responsibilities but to help one another. To support our fellow coworkers who might be struggling or the colleague who is a parent and might have a hard time teaching their child virtually while also working to complete a grant application. We came together as families to care for a grandparent who had an underlying medical condition and was in a vulnerable state. We scheduled Zoom calls to check on one another and ensure those people we see in the office on a daily basis are doing well emotionally at home. We all supported each other in ways that were unthought of before the pandemic.
I am so thankful and grateful to work alongside colleagues like this, like you. You make me proud to serve the UAB School of Medicine. I’m looking forward to sharing more details about specific areas of success and teamwork during my annual State of the School address on Wednesday, January 27, at noon via Zoom. I hope you’ll join me as we look back over the last year and turn to face the challenges the new year will bring.
I also hope you enjoy a relaxing and fulfilling holiday, even though that might look a bit different this year. I urge each and every one of you to reflect on the ways you have contributed to teamwork and the wellbeing of your colleagues. I wish you and your loved ones a peaceful holiday season and thank you for contributing to our School of Medicine team.