Thanksgiving: A Time for Reflection and Gratitude

Dear Jacobs School community,

As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, a time of reflection and gratitude, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks for your unwavering dedication to patient-centered care and to the pursuit of discovery that improves health outcomes at home and abroad. 

I  am so appreciative of our exceptional faculty, staff, and students who make the Jacobs School a truly remarkable place to work and learn. Your unwavering dedication to excellence, your commitment to compassionate care, and your passion for innovation are the cornerstones of our success.

I am also thankful for the warm, welcoming and vibrant community within the Jacobs School, within UB and in Buffalo, and the opportunity to work alongside my colleagues and friends toward our shared mission to improve the health of the Western New York community, our home.

As we gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, let us not only express gratitude for our individual blessings but also reflect on the broader social determinants of health that shape our well-being. For some in our community, this is not an easy time of year. Factors such as access to affordable housing, nutritious food, quality education, and safe neighborhoods are not equitably distributed, leading to significant health disparities.

As health care professionals, we have a unique responsibility to address these underlying issues and advocate for policies that promote health equity. Our commitment extends beyond treating individual patients; it encompasses addressing the broader social and economic conditions that contribute to health disparities.

I am incredibly proud of the Jacobs School's ongoing efforts to address the social determinants of health. Through numerous initiatives, including community outreach programs and hospital partnerships, we are making a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve.

This Thanksgiving, let us recommit ourselves to serving those impacted by the social determinants of health. Let us continue to champion initiatives that promote equity and access to quality health care for all. Together, we can create a healthier and more just society for everyone.

Wishing you a fulfilling and joyous Thanksgiving filled with the warmth of family, friends, and the satisfaction of making a positive impact on the world.

Thanks to all,

Allison Brashear, MD, MBA
Vice President for Health Sciences and
Dean, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences
University at Buffalo