VCOM-Louisiana - 2024 Graduation Book - Inaugural Class

from the founding dean • Live each day “as an example of what an osteopathic physician should be.”

T his will always be a historic time representing the achievement of the inaugural VCOM Louisiana Class of 2024’s graduation. This time of celebration demonstrates four years of significant and volume-intense study, which has led you, our first graduating class, to this event. A considerable number of one-on-one interviews were conducted to bring about the admission of this first class. I personally enjoyed calling each one of you and offering the acceptance of admission. Your journey began in 2020. Of course, we also encountered COVID-19, as well as several significant weather storms that same year. As you began your education from home, we all learned how to finesse a “Zoom” presentation. We made our adjustments and came out successful. I’m extremely proud to have been in contact with this esteemed class. I would like for all of you to remember that words do matter. We osteopathic physicians have a unique training expertise and respect for the human body: its musculo-skeletal structures, chemical interactions, processes and natural propensity to heal. The materialization of osteopathic education is displayed proudly on the mantle of the building, as it relates to the body, the mind and the spirit. Now, let me give you a few of my thoughts concerning your continued path as you venture towards your career as an osteopathic physician:

Four years of medical school have not just been about academics but also learning how to tangibly practice leadership skills which will best equip you as a practicing physician. • Be involved in advocacy. This is not a part of our COCA accreditation or standardized curriculum. But you should always consider daily your role as an advocate, standing up and speaking for your patient, for your practice, for your physician group and for our great profession. • Enjoy the process of your education. Continue to excel in your personal mission as a physician and, in the greater picture, the mission of VCOM and the Osteopathic profession. perfect. Strive for the excellence that you have already demonstrated, as having the potential to be and to do. Recognize for yourself excellent patient care as the performance of a job that is very well done. It has been an exciting time in my career, as well, and I am proud to have been your founding dean. • Do not succumb to the idea of perfection. Not everything you do, learn or perform can be

—Ray L. Morrison, DO, FACOS, DFACOS

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