Philadelphia’s legendary spirit was on full display as community and civic leaders, together with social and cultural luminaries, packed the National Constitution Center for the kickoff of 52 Weeks of Firsts—a year-long celebration of innovation and creativity by the Philadelphia Historic District Partners’ 250th Committee to take place during America’s upcoming 250th anniversary in 2026.
Energy was high as guests were greeted with a lively procession of Mummers and circus performers, in addition to an array of Philadelphia treats, from ice cream sodas to classic cheesesteaks and refreshing water ice—setting the stage for a year that promises to be as unforgettable as the city itself.
As a presenting sponsor, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) joined other key partners including the National Constitution Center, Historic Philadelphia, Inc., and Mural Arts Philadelphia for a press conference to announce each week of “Firsts.”
Representing the College was Peter Bidey, DO ’08, fellow Mummer and dean and chief academic officer of PCOM’s Osteopathic Medicine program. Bidey spoke to Philadelphia’s legacy of collaboration and discovery, drawing parallels between the city’s groundbreaking history and PCOM’s mission to advance health, education, and service within the community.
“For more than 125 years, PCOM has advanced not only science and medicine but also the health and vitality of the communities we serve, and 52 Weeks of Firsts embodies a similar purpose—bringing people together to learn, experience, and celebrate the creativity and resilience that makes Philadelphia extraordinary,” he said.
Throughout 2026, 52 Weeks of Firsts will spotlight one Philadelphia-born “first” each week through free public celebrations spanning more than a dozen neighborhoods. These events will highlight the fascinating achievements across art, science, and culture—which may surprise even lifelong Philadelphians. For example, Philadelphia is home to the first Slinky and first pencil with an attached eraser.
In addition to 52 Weeks of Firsts, PCOM’s Pennsylvania pride shines through another dynamic partnership with Bells Across PA—a statewide initiative celebrating the 250th anniversary through art and community engagement. As part of the City of Philadelphia’s Ring It On! One Philly, A United Celebration—the project will install 20 artist-designed replica Liberty Bells—10 along commercial corridors and 10 in city parks—throughout Philadelphia, connecting neighborhoods and inspiring civic spirit in bold new ways.
By joining these city and statewide initiatives, PCOM helps to honor Philadelphia’s enduring role as a birthplace of ideas and progress.
Established 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, a private, not-for-profit accredited institution of higher education, 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. The college also offers graduate degrees in applied behavior analysis, applied positive psychology, biomedical sciences, forensic medicine, medical laboratory science, mental health counseling, physician assistant studies, and school psychology. 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 general media inquiries, please contact the Office of Marketing and Communications at 215-871-6300 or communications@pcom.edu. Visit our media relations page to view contact information for public relations personnel.
Gabrielle DePietro
Associate Director, News and Media Relations
Office of Marketing and Communications
Email: gabrielde2@pcom.edu
Office: 215-871-6304
© 2025 Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
