This week we welcome 184 future physicians into our School of Medicine community. Whether you are faculty, staff or student, the first day of school is an especially energizing time of year, and I can’t wait to get started with this new class on another year of growth, learning and achievement at this outstanding institution. 

To our new students, congratulations. I hope you seize the great opportunity before you of receiving a medical education, and embrace the responsibility that comes with it. I encourage you to explore the many options before you in the medical profession and consider how your individual talent and training might best serve others. 
 
The journey upon which you are about to embark is not easy, and you will be challenged, so remember this is a marathon and not a sprint. I encourage you to take advantage of the resources at your disposal, and know that you have a community of caring faculty, house staff, administrators, staff and alumni who want you to be healthy and thriving. We are here for you, and stand ready to help guide and support you in realizing your full potential as doctors and instruments of change within your communities.

Arturo P. Saavedra, M.D., Ph.D.
Dean, VCU School of Medicine
Executive Vice President for Medical Affairs, VCU Health System