Published December 19, 2023
Dear Jacobs School Community,
As my family gathers for the holidays, I'm filled with immense gratitude for each of you. Your dedication, talent, and pursuit of excellence have been the bedrock of our achievements this year. Together, we've shared the spirit of the University at Buffalo far and wide, leaving a lasting impact.
This time of year reminds me of the community we've built here, within UB, the Jacobs School and beyond. I look forward to spending time with my own adult children in the coming weeks, sitting comfortably with my dogs at my side awaiting the snowfall, and enjoying some quiet time at home with my husband. These moments, these shared memories, are the true treasures of the season.
We've achieved incredible things together, and our impact resonates far beyond our school. Our students, fueled by their curiosity and passion, continue to inspire us with their contributions to our communities and the world. The generosity of our donors and alumni empowers us to push the frontiers of knowledge, innovation, and service, alleviating sickness and improving lives across the globe.
Building on that momentum, we embarked on a strategic planning process that has identified four key areas of focus – education; research; clinical care; and community engagement and DEI – that will ensure our continued leadership in medical education and health care delivery.
However, amidst our celebrations, we must remember, that we also must take time to consider that there is much work to be done. So many in our community remain in need, and I am heartened to be surrounded by a Jacobs School family that unites around a vision to improve the health and circumstances of our neighbors.
As we look towards the horizon, the Future of Health Report paints a promising picture, filled with opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and breakthroughs that will shape the future of health care for generations to come.
As we turn the page to a new year, I want to personally thank each of you for your commitment to the Jacobs School and the important work we do. Your unique and invaluable contributions instill in me the confidence to dream boldly, the courage to embrace continuous innovation, and the resilience to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of medical education and health care.
From my family to yours, I wish you a safe, healthy, and joyous holiday season filled with warm memories and cherished moments with loved ones. May the New Year bring you peace, happiness, and continued success in all your endeavors.
With sincere gratitude,
Allison Brashear, MD, MBA
Dean, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences
Vice President for Health Sciences, University at Buffalo