2015 Commencement Address

Abstract

On May 20, I gave the commencement address at the Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons. It was a particular honor because the Dean, Lee Goldman, was my medical school advisor and an influential mentor. Lee is a pioneer in outcomes research, with a legacy of contributions that have impacted clinical practice. It was so meaningful to share the stage with him and reflect on all that has occurred in the intervening years. In an off-script moment, I expressed how fortunate I felt and suggested that the graduates imagine having a mentor who would truly influence the course of their career, and then imagine 30 years on being invited by him to give the commencement address at the school where he was Dean. With this in mind, I wanted to provide them with words that might help them on their path. My speech, which can also be found online at http://livestream.com/accounts/7252613/events/4014859, follows. I hope that it might be helpful to others. Graduates, let’s take a moment to honor this occasion and celebrate the love that surrounds you, what you have achieved, and the promise of your future. Today is a day not only for congratulations but also one for welcoming you into the community of medicine, with all the responsibilities that implies. You are imbued now with not only the knowledge but also the influence, trust, and yes, power, of your position. You were selected not only for your brains but also for your heart. Being a doctor means stepping forward, not back, when someone needs you. By accepting your diploma, you agree to step forward and make the world better, not only by relieving suffering but by also preventing it. You have power; the challenge is to understand how to use it. Growing up in Dayton, Ohio, I …