Page 24 - Harnett Life Summer 2021

Campbell University Jerry M. Wallace School of

Osteopathic Medicine Graduated 148 Physicians at

its 5th Commencement May 6, 2021

Dr. Shaina Gordon receives her diploma from Dr. Brian Kessler

One hundred forty-eight Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine and “Not only have you completed incredibly rigorous academic
18 Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences degrees were programs, but you have done it in the on-going SARS COV-2
conferred in the School of Osteopathic Medicine’s 5th Com- pandemic - the greatest public health emergency in over a cen-
mencement Ceremony today at Barker-Lane Stadium. tury. In the face of this adversity, you stepped up. You over-
came so many challenges, and you grew in ways you never
The commencement exercises are the University’s first in the imagined.”
Spring 2021 graduation week celebrations and marks a return
to in-person celebrations while still observing health safety Dr. J. Bradley Creed, president of the university, commended
precautions with limited attendance and social distancing re- the graduates for their embodiment of school motto over the
quirements. As health care providers and educators, all gradu- past year - ad astra per aspera - “to the stars through difficulty”.
ates, faculty and staff have had the opportunity to receive the
COVID-19 vaccine. “This year has an added bonus within it - you have had a front
row seat. Your attention has been arrested in ways it would not
Dr. Jim Powers, associate dean for clinical integration, wel- have been otherwise when you studied immunology, epidemi-
comed the graduates. ology, infectious disease, comorbidities, and public health. It
has accentuated your learning and as you look back you will
“We are so proud of each of you - the amazing things you have remember this as a time when history was made. We will con-
accomplished, your hard work, your persistence, dedication tinue to learn from this year, and we are excited about the days
and resilience. Most importantly we are proud of who you are ahead for you.”
as caring compassionate people with a genuine heart for serv-
ing others.” Dr. Kevin O’Connor, physician to the President of the United
States, delivered the keynote address reminding the students
Page 24 Harnett Life ~ Summer 2021