To the PCOM Community,
Over the last several weeks, our community, the nation and, indeed, the world has closely followed the trial of Derek Chauvin in the death of George Floyd. For many in our community, the trial has resurfaced the pain and heartbreak of that day. It has also served as a reminder that despite the challenges we have endured together over the last year, there are burdens and inequities in our society shouldered only by some.
Today, Derek Chauvin was found guilty of all charges, and held responsible for the tragic death of George Floyd. While this verdict does not signal an end to the systems of inequality that are so prevalent in our society, the verdict is nonetheless a step toward accountability and justice.
As a community of osteopathic physicians, allied health professionals and behavioral scientists, we continue to advocate for and work toward the betterment of public health, in part, by addressing the inequity and social disparities that we see mirrored in our health system. We are guided by our mission and will continue to do our part to rectify the deep-rooted neglect and inequality that so many in our society have experienced for too long.
Paramount to achieving our goals as an institution and as health professionals is maintaining our safety and well-being. We urge you to be safe and look out for one another during this turbulent and uncertain time, and to care for your friends, your classmates and your community with the same grace and compassion I know each of you will bring to your practice upon graduation.
As a reminder, counseling and mental health services are available to all PCOM students, faculty and staff through myPCOM and we encourage you to make use of these resources should you need them.
Jay S. Feldstein, DO ’81
President and Chief Executive Officer
© 2024 Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine