I’ve been very fortunate that the 50 Years of Medicine at Brown celebration coincided with my first year as dean. In the course of the anniversary, I’ve been immersed in the school’s history, had opportunities to meet alumni from coast to coast, and have heard over and over what makes The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University so special.

One of the most wonderful aspects of Brown is its ethos, this deep commitment to be a global citizen and do things for societal impact. These are shared values that are demonstrated by our students, alumni, faculty, and staff. People come to Brown with this passion, and they learn here how to apply it in their practice and in their lives.

In this issue of Medicine@Brown, you’ll meet alumni who embody this ethos. Scott Allen and Jody Rich have never shied away from a fight on behalf of marginalized and disenfranchised people. Most recently, they’ve blown the whistle on COVID-19 outbreaks in correctional settings. Makini Chisolm-Straker is still early in her career, but she’s already made a difference for victims of human trafficking. As you’ll read in the profile of her, she’s now a White House Fellow, furthering her work to improve health through policy change.

These are just some of the alumni making a difference in the world in big and small ways. For some it’s through research, for others it’s through teaching the next generations of physicians and scientists. While your paths may lead you in various directions, your journeys all began in the same place.

As we come together at Commencement-Reunion, I look forward to meeting more of you and hearing about the ways you are making a difference in our world.