On March 25, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM), in accordance with the guidance of public health and government agencies, made the decision to cancel the traditional Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) and Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) commencement exercises. These exercises were originally scheduled to take place this May in Philadelphia and Georgia. This decision comes in the wake of COVID-19, a global pandemic that has prompted local and national authorities to restrict public gatherings to reduce the spread of the disease.
In his message to the community, Jay Feldstein, DO ’81, CEO and president, shared, “I am truly saddened that we had to make this decision, but we feel the need to protect the health and well-being of you, our graduates, as well as your families, friends and the larger College community during this uncertain time.”
Dr. Feldstein went on to applaud these students saying, “Change does not take away the pride we hold as we recognize our graduating students and their countless successes and profound contributions to the life of our community.”
At this time, PCOM leadership, faculty and student leaders are in discussions regarding alternative celebratory plans. Additional information on these plans will be shared with the community as it becomes available.
Learn more about PCOM's response to COVID-19.
Learn more about 2020 commencement at PCOM and PCOM Georgia.
Founded in 1899, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) has trained thousands of highly competent, caring physicians, health practitioners and behavioral scientists who practice a “whole person” approach to care—treating people, not just symptoms. PCOM operates three campuses (PCOM, PCOM Georgia and PCOM South Georgia) and offers doctoral degrees in clinical psychology, educational psychology, osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, physical therapy and school psychology, and graduate degrees in applied behavior analysis, applied positive psychology, biomedical sciences, forensic medicine, medical laboratory science, mental health counseling, non profit leadership and population health management, organizational development and leadership, physician assistant studies, school psychology, and public health management and administration. PCOM students learn the importance of health promotion, research, education and service to the community. Through its community-based Healthcare Centers, PCOM provides care to medically underserved populations. For more information, visit pcom.edu or call 215-871-6100.
For more information, contact:
Daniel McCunney
Associate Director, News and Media Relations
Email: danielmc1@pcom.edu
Office: 215-871-6304 | Cell:
267-449-1360
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