Every day, faculty, staff and learners in the UBC Department of Medicine are working together, transforming health for everyone in communities at home and around the world.
The number of excellent initiatives by Department members is remarkable, particularly during these extraordinary times and their successes reflect new collaborations that otherwise would not have been possible. The bonds we have built during these tough times will carry us through challenges and hardship. Collectively, we will emerge stronger as a department, as a faculty, as a university.
In May 2019, when I presented my vision for the Department, I shared my personal leadership vision was gratitude. I am still committed to being the leader who sees the gifts in others that they may not recognize in themselves and help them realize their best selves in the work we do together. The values of transparency, accountability, organizational integrity and inclusiveness underpin the way we move forward. I had hoped to meet more members face-to-face in my first year, especially at the distributed sites. Hopefully, that will become possible in 2021.
We have created the Departmental Year in Review to highlight and celebrate our changes and progress on initiatives. I also want to thank my excellent administrative team for their expertise, and the Associate Heads for their professionalism and support during my first year.
I wish you all a successful 2021 and know that I am truly grateful for your contributions.
Anita Palepu, MD, MPH, FRCPC, MACP
Professor and Eric W. Hamber Chair
Head, Department of Medicine
University of British Columbia
