Celebrating Connection: Medical Alumni Weekend 2026
More than 200 University of Miami Miller School of Medicine alumni returned to campus, strengthening connections, celebrating legacy and looking ahead into the future.
The University of Miami Miller School of Medicine’s Medical Alumni Weekend 2026 was a three-day celebration of connection, community and shared purpose. In person or from afar, the weekend reflected the strength and spirit of the Miller School Alumni network.
Honoring Legacy
The event began with the Golden MedCanes Reception, celebrating alumni marking their 65-, 60-, 55- and 50-year reunions. Hosted by Henri Ford, M.D., M.H.A., Miller School dean and chief academic officer, the gathering honored decades of impact in medicine and beyond.
“When you see the caliber of people coming to the Miller School, it shows we are on a spectacular course of excellence. The trajectory is great and our students are just amazing,” Dean Ford shared with the group.
Reconnecting Across Generations
Following the Golden MedCanes Reception, alumni gathered at Monty’s for the Sunset Soiree Reception. Alumni across classes came to reconnect, share stories and reflect on the Miller School’s lasting influences.
“Attending the Miller School of Medicine was a defining moment in my life,” said Joellen Brown, M.D. ’76. “I’m excited to see what’s being done here at the medical school in terms of research. We are in a period of transition, and I want to hear the forward-thinking approach the administration has to address this period of time.”
Looking Ahead
Saturday, March 14 programming brought alumni back to campus for guided tours showcasing the growth and evolution of the Miller School, offering a first-hand look at new spaces, innovations and areas of expansion.
The day continued with a forward-looking discussion featuring Dean Ford and Latha Chandran, M.D., M.P.H., M.B.A., founding chair of the Department of Medical Education and executive dean for education and policy at the Miller School, highlighting the future of medical education. Christian Diez, M.D. ‘04, M.B.A.’12, president of the Medical Alumni Association, moderated the discussion as the two medical school leaders shared their visions of the future.
Paul Lafie, M.D. ’76, shared a bit of his story and the impact the Miller School had on him.
“I am one of the alumni who has created a scholarship and I did it because the Miller School of Medicine changed my life,” Dr. Lafie said. “When I graduated, I didn’t have a dollar to my name but thanks to the support I received from the Miller School of Medicine I’ve been able to offer a $100,000 scholarship to current students.”
A key focus was NextGenMD, the Miller School’s innovative curriculum designed to prepare the next generation of physicians through early clinical experience, small-group learning, mentorship and community engagement.
“I’m always amazed at how well our students perform and how well prepared they are to succeed,” said Dr. Chandran. “In fact, we lead the nation in granting dual degrees.”
A Weekend to Remember
The weekend culminated with the Nautical Nights reunion celebration at the Hotel Colonnade in Coral Gables, where alumni gathered to celebrate their shared experiences and lasting bonds.
Guests also previewed the Alumni Studio, a new digital alumni platform featuring yearbooks, class photos and milestones, bringing generations of Miller School memories together in one place.
A Meaningful Farewell
The weekend concluded with a farewell brunch at the Hotel Colonnade, where alumni gathered one last time to reflect, reconnect and share highlights from the days together.
It was a fitting close, filled with gratitude, laughter and a renewed sense of connection to the Miller School community.
Stay Connected
Stay informed, reconnect with classmates and access alumni resources through the Medical Alumni Association’s dedicated alumni page.
Tags: alumni, Dean Henri Ford, Dr. Christian Diez, Dr. Henri Ford, medical alumni, Medical Alumni Weekend