MedCanes Family Reception Welcomes Parents of the Class of 2030
More than 200 parents gathered with Miller School leaders ahead of the annual White Coat and Pinning Ceremony to learn how the school will support members of the Class of 2030.
Every year, the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine kicks off the fall semester with its annual White Coat and Pinning Ceremony. The day before the ceremony, parents of the incoming class are invited to learn more about the Miller School and the student experience.
More than 200 parents joined Henri R. Ford, M.D., M.H.A., dean and chief academic officer at the Miller School, at the Rubell Museum in Miami August 20 for the MedCanes Family Welcome Reception.
Welcoming the Class of 2030
Those in attendance had the chance to enjoy the museum, hear from Dean Ford and meet with other members of the Miller School leadership team. Dean Ford welcomed the parents by sharing the recent rise in the U.S. News & World Report ranking of UHealth—University of Miami Health System.
Bascom Palmer Eye Institute once again ranked No. 1 in ophthalmology in the nation, marking its 25th year at the top of the U.S. News rankings. Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, part of the Miller School, rose to No. 1 in Florida and No. 23 nationally for cancer care, while neurology and neurosurgery advanced to No. 14 nationally. Geriatrics and cardiovascular medicine both also earned national ranking and UHealth was recognized as the No. 5 health system in Florida.
“Here at the Miller School, we are in the business of creating the future transformational leaders in medicine,” Dean Ford said. “The great news is that your students are attending a premier institution as recognized by the U.S. News & World Report ranking. Students have access to the best and brightest here at the Miller School.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the MedCanes Family Welcome Reception?
It was an opportunity for parents of incoming medical students to learn about the Miller School, meet school leaders and hear how faculty and staff will support their students.
Who attended the reception?
More than 200 parents joined Miller School leaders at the Rubell Museum in Miami.
How can parents stay involved?
Families can join the Medical Parents Association or contact the association for more information.
Family Connections to the Miller School
Dean Ford’s remarks about the Miller School’s culture of excellence resonated strongly with many parents, especially those who once walked its halls as students. Brian Gotkin, M.D. ’93, shared what it means to see his daughter begin her own journey at the Miller School and the opportunities that lie ahead.
“I’m very excited. I had a great time at the Miller School as a student, and you get a great education here,” Dr. Gotkin said. “I feel like it really prepares you for the next phase of your career. When I did my residency, I felt that I was more prepared than other residents who went to other medical schools.”
Another proud Miller School alumni and parent, Alfredo Hernandez, M.D. ’00, reflected on the significance of seeing his son begin his own journey at the Miller School.
“I’m positive that my son will have a wonderful experience at the Miller School based on the leadership that they have,” Dr. Hernandez said. “Dr. Mechaber was my teacher when I was a medical student, and she was awesome back then. With the staff, facilities and resources at the Miller School now, this will be a positive experience for my son.”
Supporting Students Throughout Their Journey
Dean Ford concluded his remarks by recognizing Hilit Mechaber, M.D. ‘95, senior associate dean for student affairs and professor of clinical medicine at the Miller School, and Chris Alabiad, M.D. ‘02, associate dean for student affairs and professor of clinical ophthalmology at the Miller School. He also encouraged parents to join the Miller School’s Medical Parents Association, a network of parents who support the school as ambassadors and champions of its mission.
The evening closed on a celebratory note as parents mingled with Dean Ford and Drs. Mechaber and Alabiad, and gathered for photos with Sebastian the Ibis, the University of Miami mascot.
“We know that your children are equipped with what they need to become successful physicians and physician-scientists,” Dean Ford said. “It is our job to support them along that journey and make sure they succeed, and it’s my promise to you that we will do everything in our power to achieve that goal.”
How Families Can Stay Involved
- Visit the Medical Parents Association website
- Email the Medical Parents Association or Rachel Cameau to learn about more ways to support the Miller School.
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Tags: alumni, Dean Henri Ford, Department of Medical Education, Dr. Henri Ford, medical education, medical students