Dean's Opening
The VCU School of Medicine stands at a pivotal moment in its long history of service, discovery and education. This strategic plan reflects the shared vision of our faculty, staff and learners and our commitment to shaping a future where innovation and excellence define every aspect of our mission.
During the next three years, we will strengthen our learning environment, accelerate impactful research and expand access to high-quality, compassionate care. We will invest in our people, deepen collaboration across disciplines and pursue solutions that respond to the evolving needs of our patients and communities.
Thank you to everyone who contributed to this work. I am inspired by what we will accomplish together—and proud to share this vision for the future of the VCU School of Medicine.
With appreciation,
Stephen L. Kates, M.D.
Interim dean, VCU School of Medicine
Interim executive vice president for medical affairs, VCU Health System
Our Mission
At the VCU School of Medicine, we work with a collective purpose to uplift lives and create a positive and enduring impact by:
- Educating and training the physicians, scientists and health professionals of tomorrow
- Conducting innovative research to shape the future of medicine and science
- Advancing healthcare for our community that is compassionate, personalized and accessible
Our Vision
- Be a leading force in academic medicine by transforming possibilities into realities
- To redefine what's possible in academic medicine by integrating human insight with scientific and technological breakthroughs that transform education and patient care
Our Values
At the VCU School of Medicine, we are guided by values that define who we are and how we serve our community:
- Passion for Our Mission We approach our work with a deep commitment to advancing education, research and health care.
- Integrity in Action We hold ourselves to high ethical standards with kindness, compassion and humility.
- Transformative Impact We strive to change lives and improve our community through excellence in all we do, with the courage to tackle even the hardest problems
Environmental Scan
To inform SOM Quest 2028, the school assessed both internal and external environments as part of its environmental scan.
IMPACT Areas
The acronym IMPACT provides the framework for the SOM Quest 2028 Strategic Plan:
I — Innovative Research and Discovery
M — Meaningful Education and Training
P — Patient Centered Clinical Excellence
A — Advancing Strategic Philanthropy