SMAA Holiday Reception: extending our gratitude

Dec. 20, 2018

In keeping with Dean Sharon Anderson's focus on gratitude, the recent School of Medicine Alumni Association (SMAA) Holiday Reception on Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, emphasized appreciation for the tangible and less-tangible ways in which alumni support benefits and enriches the school.

Over 175 alumni and guests packed the holiday-themed rooms of The Town Club in Portland to celebrate the season. Together with council president John Tongue, M.D. R '74, Dean Anderson recognized and thanked donors, particularly those members of the 1887 Society present, and members of the alumni council for their work during the past year. Dr. Anderson reserved her final gratitude for the work of the students who had adopted the role of change agents by advocating for the founding of a free clinic to bring basic health care services to underserved populations. Named the Bridges Collaborative Care Clinic, the service is a partnership with Portland-based Transition Projects.

"As we usher in the holiday season, let's raise a glass to our students and the many ways that they inspire us to be better physicians and scientists," said Dean Anderson. "Let us also recognize the importance of our role in continuing to support them."

Alumni interested in becoming involved with the work of the SMAA Council are invited to call Mark Kemball, director of alumni relations, at (503) 552-0667.

M.D. Reunions 2019

The Alumni Relations Program is currently reaching out to prior coordinators from classes whose graduation years end in '4' and '9' to discuss options for gatherings in 2019. Are you interested in helping us? Not heard from us yet? Please contact us for information.