VCOM 2024 Annual Report

Fostering Innovation and Strengthening Community Bonds Heath Parker, DO, FACP Dean for the Auburn Campus

A t VCOM-Auburn, we are committed to shaping the next generation of healthcare leaders, driven by a deep-rooted connection to our local communities. More than 80% of our students hail from Alabama and surrounding rural areas, and this unique connection fuels their dedication to improving the health of those they serve. Our students’ journey extends beyond medical education; it is a journey of making a tangible impact on the communities that need them most. In 2024, we continued to build on the success of our educational programs, with a focus on strengthening clinical research opportunities and fostering deeper relationships with our alumni. We are particularly excited about the strong ties we are nurturing with local healthcare providers and organizations. By working together, we can provide not just education, but also lasting support for the health of our communities. A shining example of our commitment to innovation and community service is the success of our Master of Health Sciences in Anesthesia (MHSA) program. Since its inception in 2023, this program has exceeded expectations, quickly becoming a vital resource for training skilled professionals in an area of great need. The program’s success led to its replication on our Carolina’s campus, broadening its impact and reaching even more communities in need of highly trained anesthesia professionals. It’s clear that the demand for specialized healthcare education is high, and we are proud to meet that need head-on. Contributing to our success is the support we have received from donors like BlueCross and Blue Shield of Alabama. Scholarships provided

by their Caring Foundation will help our graduates return to Alabama.

VCOM-Auburn continues to foster a strong culture of community engagement. Our students’ efforts are supported by outreach programs designed to deepen the understanding of osteopathic medicine in local communities. These initiatives create an environment where education and service are

“Our mission’s success is a reflection of our commitment to innovation, community

inseparable, empowering our students to take what they’ve learned and make a difference in real-world settings. I could not be more proud of the remarkable work being done at VCOM-Auburn. Our students are not only gaining the tools to become excellent healthcare providers—they are also embracing the responsibility to lead, innovate, and serve their communities with the knowledge, compassion, and dedication that will shape the future of healthcare. collaboration, and the undeniable success of our students, who are shaping the future of healthcare across the nation.”

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