Congratulations, Department of Medicine graduates!

Dear Graduates,
 
On behalf of the entire Department of Medicine, we would like to extend our sincere congratulations to each and every one of you as we celebrate your graduation. You are graduating at a time when we are seeing history in the making. You have been on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic and have risen to an incredible challenge. You have shown unparalleled courage, compassion and leadership. Your efforts are incalculable. Your impact is immeasurable.
 
You are graduating in the middle of the most acute health threat and some of the greatest civil actions in a generation. As you venture into clinical practice, we ask that you never lose sight of why you entered your field and chose your specialization. As physicians, we are caregivers, teachers, role models, and advocates. It is your duty to use your voice, privilege and network to influence for good, to care for the vulnerable and to amplify the voices of the most marginalized. Let what you’ve learned in your journey so far guide you as you embark on the next stage of your careers.
 
Now more than ever is a time to be celebrating your invaluable contributions to the care of our patients and communities. Although we cannot celebrate your accomplishments and your tireless work together in person, please know that the Department of Medicine takes tremendous pride in the efforts that have brought you to this day. As future leaders in each of your fields, we are so excited to see where your careers take you.
 
A hearty congratulations to you from the entire Department of Medicine!
 
Sincerely,
 
Dr. Gillian Hawker
Sir John and Lady Eaton Professor and Chair,
Department of Medicine, University of Toronto
 
Dr. Arno Kumagai
Vice-Chair Education
Department of Medicine, University of Toronto