Dear Alumni and Friends,
Every day I reflect on what a great privilege it is to be a part of the University of Florida College of
Medicine. I am especially honored by the remarkable commitment of our alumni and friends whose
passion for progress within our college continues to advance our goals.
This fall, the University of Florida embarked on the most ambitious fundraising campaign in its
history, and the UF College of Medicine has a substantial role in achieving the campaign goal. For the
UF College of Medicine, the impact of philanthropy is palpable. In this issue of Florida Physician, I am
pleased to share how the extraordinary investments of our donors continue to transform our health
care landscape. These gifts directly influence the accessibility of medical education for deserving
students, advance care for patients of all ages, and provide critical support for the brightest minds in
teaching and research.
November 2, 2017 marked the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new UF Health Heart & Vascular and
Neuromedicine hospitals, UF Health’s newest complex to meet the growing needs of our patients.
This celebration came on the heels of an important milestone for UF—reaching U.S. News and World
Report’s Top 10 ranking among public research universities. As UF is one of just a few universities in
the country with six health-related colleges and a hospital system contiguous to the main campus, we
were well-poised for this long-sought distinction. It simply would not be possible without a thriving
academic health center and a leading medical college.
The UF College of Medicine continues to play an important role in the education of resident physicians
and fellows through its collaboration with the Malcom Randall Veterans Affairs Medical Center. In
1967, the VA Hospital opened its doors, ushering in a new era of health care for active duty and veteran
patients throughout North Florida and South Georgia. Fifty years later, the multidisciplinary medical
center is upholding this tradition as part of the largest veterans affairs medical system of its kind in the
country.
As we look to the future, we will deepen our commitment to students, faculty, staff and patients. We
hope you will join us in this effort. Your support enables us to Go Greater to help shape the future of
medicine. Thank you for your dedication and generous commitment.
Sincerely,
Michael L. Good, MD
Dean