VCOM 2017 Annual Report

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE a college where we are inspired

Dixie Tooke-Rawlins, DO, FACOFP President and Provost

T he Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) was founded by a group of individuals who were inspired to solve the physician shortage in the Appalachian region, especially in rural and medically underserved communities. This vision of a medical school for southwest Virginia has expanded throughout the southern Appalachian region, with VCOM campuses in Blacksburg, Virginia; Spartanburg, South Carolina; and Auburn, Alabama. Personally, I have been inspired by the students and faculty whose hard work and dedication have brought success to our College and our mission. With the graduating Class of 2017, VCOM has graduated 2,300 physicians since its founding. VCOM graduates are clearly inspired by our vision, with over 64% of the Class of 2017 entering primary care residencies in the Appalachian region. Even more impressive, a total of 69% of all VCOM graduates are in residency or practicing in our southern target Appalachian states, and 44% practice in medically underserved areas. VCOM students and faculty are inspiring in their commitment to serving others through Appalachian and international healthcare outreach programs. Our students benefit from the wisdom of faculty who teach the principles of osteopathic medicine, mentor in clinical and research settings, and encourage students to make a difference in the lives of their patients as future physicians. I invite you to review our 2017 Annual Report and see the inspiring contributions of our students, faculty and staff. VCOM is truly a college where Vision, Caring and Osteopathic Medicine align.

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