Message from Dean Nelson to Our Alumni

Dear MedOwls Alumni,

One of the best parts of my role as dean has been learning about what you are all doing out there in the field. Since our first graduating class in 2015, you've built careers that span every corner of medicine - and honestly, it's pretty impressive.

I've always believed that a medical school's true measure isn't just what happens within its walls, but what its graduates accomplish once they leave. By that standard, you are making us look really good. From attending physicians practicing your chosen specialty, to residents and fellows who trained here, to biomedical science alumni advancing research - you've taken what the college provided and run with it in ways that continue to surprise and inspire us.

Here's what stands out: you haven't forgotten where you came from or why you chose healthcare in the first place. You are still committed to patient-centered care while pushing yourselves to stay at the cutting edge of your fields. That balance isn't easy to maintain, especially when you are juggling the demands of practice, research, family, and everything else life throws at you. I remember those days well - when every hour counted and any free moment felt like a luxury.

That’s why your connection to this place matters. Our current students, residents, fellows, and graduate students need to hear from you. They are looking for your perspective on what works, what doesn't, and how to navigate the challenges they are facing. Your experiences are the bridge between what we teach and what actually happens in the real world.

We are continuing to grow - expanding our research, strengthening clinical partnerships, building new programs. And as we do, we hope you’ll remain connected. You've navigated these challenges firsthand and know what makes a difference.

So, wherever you are in your career - just starting out or already mentoring others – stay connected. Your success is our success, and we want to celebrate it with you.

Once a MedOwl, always a MedOwl.

With gratitude and pride,

Lewis S. Nelson, MD, MBA
Dean and Chief of Health Affairs
Schmidt College of Medicine

P.S. – Seriously, drop me a line (or connect with our alumni team) and let me know what you are up to. And if you are ever back in Boca Raton, stop by. My door is always open and there is always coffee.