In April 2020, Adrianne Jones, MLS, became the chief admissions officer of Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. Now, as PCOM celebrates its 125th anniversary, Jones reflects on her role as well as the legacy of the admissions leaders who previously served the institution including Carol A. Fox and Deborah Benvenger.
“Carol Fox established 40 years of legacy in Admissions at PCOM along with another 15 years from Debbie Benvenger,” Jones said. “While I don't have a legacy of years at PCOM—this is just my fourth year—I have been in the profession almost thirty years at different colleges and universities. One hundred and twenty-five years later, PCOM is a very different place, and the evolution of the institution still continues.”
In terms of her own legacy, Jones aims to be remembered for making PCOM and its admissions team approachable.
“I hope that beyond access to PCOM, we helped them on their way to realize their dream in healthcare,” she said.
Discussing the changes in higher education, Jones highlighted PCOM's growth with multiple locations and programs. She acknowledged the impact of COVID and advancements like artificial intelligence, while also emphasizing the enduring commitment to diversity at PCOM, recognizing the institution's 125-year history and her part in its ongoing evolution.
“Education is such a privilege,” she said. “I hope future students see that access to a PCOM education for under-represented in medicine students is possible. More importantly, representation matters and I want all future students to continue to make an impact in their communities.”
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