Dear School of Medicine community,
It is with a heavy heart that I write to you on the passing of our longtime friend and benefactor, Jim McGlothlin.
As many of you know, Mr. McGlothlin and his wife, Fran, have been extraordinary partners to the VCU School of Medicine. Their generosity has enabled and inspired generations of physicians and researchers across a range of disciplines, from orthopaedics and neurosciences, to educating and training the caregivers, innovators and health care leaders of tomorrow. We are proud and grateful that our medical education building carries their names – and even more thankful for their investments in our people.
This year, 32 McGlothlin Scholars are among the hundreds of medical students studying in the McGlothlin Medical Education Center. Dr. Steven Kates and Dr. David Limbrick hold endowed chairs established through the McGlothlins’ philanthropy, which was initially inspired by their interactions with renowned neurosurgery leader Dr. Harry Young. Countless patients – past, present and future – will have their lives changed, improved and even saved because of Jim and Fran’s visionary investments.
The School of Medicine is not the only Virginia institution to benefit from the McGlothlins’ generosity. The couple have been dedicated patrons of the arts and education throughout the commonwealth, through the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the College of William & Mary, and the Mountain Mission School in Grundy, among many others.
Though he was a businessman and not a physician, Jim McGlothlin was a caregiver. He dedicated his time, talent and treasure to advance the welfare of others. I ask that you remember him with respect, affection and appreciation for his leadership, lasting impact and for his example. Our hearts go out to his wife, Fran, the McGlothlin family and all those who grieve his loss.
Respectfully,
Arturo P. Saavedra, M.D., Ph.D., M.B.A.
Dean, VCU School of Medicine
Executive vice president for medical affairs, VCU Health System