Miller School of Medicine Celebrates Class of 2024 Commencement
Amidst the jubilant cheers of family members, friends and supporters, the proud members of the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine Class of 2024 donned their caps and gowns and officially received their hard-earned medical degrees.
This year’s commencement ceremony was particularly significant. The class began their medical school journey in 2020 during the pandemic. Fueled by unyielding determination and a steadfast dedication to their calling, these future physicians persevered.
“I am so proud of you. Undaunted by global turmoil, you pursued your dream and today, that precious dream has become a reality,” said Henri R. Ford, M.D., M.H.A., dean and chief academic officer of the Miller School. “You are not only well-trained and well-equipped for residency, but you are also poised to become transformative leaders wherever you go in life.”
Scenes from Commencement 2024
An Accomplished Cohort
As the inaugural cohort of NextGenMD scholars, the Class of 2024 students embraced the new curriculum and an innovative approach to medical education, which focuses on early exposure to the clinical setting, small-group learning and mentorship. All students also choose a scholarly concentration pathway or a secondary degree. Of the 201 Class of 2024 students, 75 are graduating with dual degrees, including 56 M.D./M.P.H. graduates and nine M.D./M.B.A. graduates.
“This moment is a culmination of the support and guidance I have received to get here – from the Miller community and faculty, my family, friends and partner,” said Hannah Ship, M.D./M.P.H. ’24, who will embark on an internal medicine primary care track at University of California, Los Angeles. “I am deeply thankful to the Miller School for entrusting and honoring me with this journey to physicianship.”
Twenty-one students graduated with Research Distinction. Twenty-two students were accepted to the Gold Humanism Society and 40 joined the Alpha Omega Society, a national medical honor society. The class also achieved a 100% final placement rate on Match Day and will be joining top residency programs across the country for the next chapter in their medical training.
“Despite the challenges and uncertainties at the beginning, we stand here today, a testament to our resilience and determination,” said Krisna Maddy, M.D./M.S. ’24, who will be completing her neurosurgery residency at Georgetown University and was selected to speak on behalf of the class. “But the primary reason we are here is our patients. I am deeply grateful to every one of them for sharing their stories, which have seamlessly intertwined with ours, propelling our journeys forward.”
Keynote Speaker Commends Class of 2024
Christopher J.L. Murray, M.D., DPhil, served as the Class of 2024 commencement ceremony keynote speaker and received a Doctor of Science degree, honoris causa.
An influential physician and health economist who focuses on improving population health worldwide, he encouraged the students to embrace the opportunity to play a pivotal role in improving health of the country at the both the clinic and community levels. He also encouraged the students to remain resilient in times of great change.
“There will be points in your life when things don’t go your way. Get back up and keep going,” Dr. Murray said. “You will have many opportunities in your medical career. Use your enthusiasm, energy and skills acquired at the University of Miami to do good work that matters.”
Parting Words of Wisdom
As commencement concluded, Maria Del Pilar Gutierrez, B.S. ’84, M.D. ’90, president of the Medical Alumni Association, welcomed the latest alumni to an organization that has existed since 1956.
“This is a rite of passage you will long treasure, and one you should be proud of,” said Dr. Gutierrez. “Your families, friends and loved ones are unquestionably thrilled with your accomplishments, as is your alma mater. You are continuing evidence that the University of Miami has one of the finest medical programs in the country.”
As they embark on the next phase of their journey, the Class of 2024 graduates embody the resilience, compassion and unwavering commitment to excellence that define the Miller School of Medicine community. They emerge not only as physicians, but also as leaders poised to improve the ever-evolving health care landscape with empathy, integrity and dedication.
“When you look back on your time at the U, remember that what inspires resilience is hope — hope for the future and confidence that you can face anything that lies ahead,” said Julio Frenk, M.D., M.P.H., Ph.D., president of the University of Miami. “I have hope in the future because I place my trust in you.”
Class of 2024 Spotlights
Christopher Vasquez’s difficult childhood taught him valuable lessons that propelled him to medical school and a Mass General surgical residency. Read more
Jordan Adonis Brooks will be the sole student in his medical school class to graduate with J.D. and M.D. degrees from the University of Miami. Read more
Hannah Ship found her career path after seeing the struggles the Deaf and hard-of-hearing people experience in the health care system. Read more
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