Over the past month, I know you have been bombarded with many COVID-19 updates and messages. However, I would like to offer you a glimpse into how the Cumming School of Medicine has mobilized to meet the challenges of our changing world. As you can imagine, our students, faculty and staff have responded to this global pandemic with skill, knowledge and grace.

Students organized quickly to help in extraordinary ways and I am thankful for their boundless enthusiasm. Many of our learners are putting their education to use by helping Alberta Health with COVID-19 contact tracing, while others are offering childcare to frontline workers or picking up groceries for vulnerable populations.  

The University of Calgary research community has been using their collective might to investigate and consult on solutions for dealing with COVID-19. Teams in medicine, public policy and social work are working on various initiatives including rapid diagnostic tools and community preparedness policies. Other groups are working with Alberta Health Services and industry to design and locally produce ventilators and personal protective equipment. I am proud of how our research community has pivoted quickly to contribute to solutions dealing with many aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic.

UCalgary was quick to move all classes to online platforms, a tremendous feat that was performed quickly in the middle of the semester. The dedication and willingness to learn, adjust and adapt has been evident both in faculty and learners. Sadly, like all large public events, convocation has been postponed. We look forward to celebrating this milestone with our graduates in November.

The university has developed several resources for our community, including activities for kids, a hand washing tutorial and fitness advice. There is also COVIDcast, a podcast series that is worth a listen. Dr. Bill Ghali, MD’90, and Vice-President (Research) at UCalgary, is featured in the first episode explaining why “Public Health Always Wins.”

Stay safe and healthy.

Sincerely,

Jon Meddings, MD
Dean, Cumming School of Medicine
University of Calgary