VCOM - Carolinas 2016 Yearbook

CMDA Christian Medical and Dental Association

Jarod Stevenson, President; Benjamin Luce, Vice President; Shelby Nolte, Treasurer; Erika Herrera, Secretary

C MDA provides opportunities for medical students to grow in their faith as Christians, both on campus and in practice. The organization strives to offer a place of community to everyone on campus, and to serve the community with various volunteer and outreach programs. Members are entering a profession that will constantly call upon them to help those in need, and CMDA believes the best time to start is now. Each year, CMDA hosts two parties: the annual CMDA “Kick- off Cook-out” and a Christmas Party. There are huge turnouts at each event and the opportunity to meet new students and spend more time with fellow classmates. These parties are

always a great time, filled with fun and games and free food. CMDA also provides short devotionals at each of these events to encourage one another other in faith. One of the greatest benefits of this organization is weekly Bible studies, hosted by members. These are open to anyone who is interested, and you do not have to be a member to attend. Students find these meetings highly encouraging and have expressed their gratitude on numerous occasions. CMDA believes this activity is extremely important in the lives of students, as they provide opportunities to grow close with a small group of friends, as well as helping students maintain balance both

mentally and spiritually.

Another event is the “Faith in Medicine” series in which physicians speak about being a professing Christian in the practice of medicine. These events are held during the lunch hour for members only. The series has been very informative and helpful in answering the questions that many members have, namely “What does it look like to be a doctor but at the same time hold true to what we believe as a Christian?” In addition to these talks, CMDA hosts a yearly “Spirituality in Medicine” talk that is open to all of VCOM. This unique opportunity gives students the chance to hear about what it means to consider and address

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