Dear Department Members,
As we come to the end of 2023, it is hard to believe that my first term as Department Head will be complete in 2024. I feel fortunate to be part of such a resilient Department of Medicine. I would like to take this time to recognize that the strength of the Department of Medicine resides with its members, resides with you. I reflect on the gratitude I have for being able to call you my colleagues. In a time when there are many hardships in the world, I am proud to work with colleagues who demonstrate compassion, curiosity, and perseverance. It is the human connections we make with each other that contribute to the innovations in research, development of teaching, and management of change that motivates me as a Department Head. The Department of Medicine is a world-class department because of every one of you. I see what you do and I thank you for your dedication to the Department of Medicine.
Some highlights for me in 2023 include visiting the distributed sites and having an opportunity to meet with colleagues in Fraser, Victoria, Kelowna, and Prince George. I immensely enjoyed the conversations and hearing about the outstanding work being done at the distributed sites. I also enjoyed meeting our residents and trainees at Resident Research Day and the Research Expo. It inspires me to see the projects of the next generation of researchers and teachers.
Looking forward to 2024, I hope for a revival of kindness and a continuation of making human connections. I am looking forward to visiting some of the distributed sites across the province of BC in the spring and fall again as well as seeing the progression of the exciting work being done within the Department of Medicine through our strategic plan.
Wishing you and your loved ones a restful winter break.
All my best,
Anita
Anita Palepu, MD, MPH, FRCPC, MACP
Professor and Eric W. Hamber Chair
Head, Department of Medicine
University of British Columbia
