December 24, 2008

Dear Faculty, Staff and Students,

With the holiday season at its height, I wanted to take a moment to extend my gratitude and best wishes to each of you.  You have all played a critical role in the success we have achieved at the Miller School over the past 12 months.  We have launched and dramatically expanded the University of Miami Hospital (census has increased by 40% relative to a year ago) and UHealth-University of Miami Health System. Our milestones in research and excellence in clinical care and medical education have been recognized in the U.S. and beyond, thanks to our doctors, nurses, educators, scientists and trainees.  All of this adds up to unsurpassed  care for those who are the most important and central to all we do: our patients.

Yes, we are experiencing challenging economic times, but it is comforting to know we work in a field that will always be essential.  Delivering health care and wellness to our community will continue to be a flourishing enterprise, and one in which the Miller School will always excel.  It is my steadfast commitment to keep our focus on the vast challenges we must meet in order to save more lives, while keeping the Miller School stable and strong.

As we navigate through challenging times, it will be particularly important for me as the Dean to hear from all of you, listen to your concerns and benefit from your great ideas.  Hence, shortly after the first of the year, I will be launching a Dean's Blog on the Miller School website.  This will be an opportunity for me to share with you what is going on at the  School, and for you to share your reactions and thoughts relative to our Miller School, UHealth, and how I can better serve you.  I'll introduce the blog in greater detail soon in another Dean's Message.

As you celebrate the holidays with family and friends, please know that I deeply appreciate your hard work and dedication to medical discovery and education, and to providing the best possible care to all of our patients.  Thanks to your talent and diligence, we have much to look forward to in the coming year as we work together to make Miami a true medical destination.  I am extremely excited about building on our already remarkable achievements.

May your holidays be filled with joy and family warmness.

Season’s greetings and best wishes for a happy and healthy new year!

Pascal