An inside view of Convocation Hall in spring 2022.
On June 2, we will have the opportunity to do something we haven’t been able to do for the last two years: celebrate the graduation of our learners in person at Convocation Hall. The COVID-19 pandemic has meant we needed to rely on virtual ceremonies to mark this important milestone. Our enthusiasm for our learners' success was no less heartfelt, and the pride felt by our graduates – as well as their family and friends – was just as evident. However, not being able to celebrate together as we have done for more than a century was yet another disappointment caused by the pandemic. Being able to come together once again as a community to mark convocation is another sign life on campus is returning to normal.
The Class of 2022 has been through a great deal of uncertainty and disruptions. For two years, many of their classes occurred online. Their access to labs and clinical training environments was limited. Yet, they persevered and continued the studies and training required to complete their programs. They did this often isolated from loved ones and distanced from their usual support systems. Their resilience is remarkable, but it was never taken for granted. I know how arduous this journey has been, so I want to thank the Class of 2022 for their dedication and commitment.
I also want to thank the many faculty and staff who have supported the Class of 2022. They also had to face disruptions and uncertainty. At times, it has been a struggle to maintain our academic and research operations, yet we did. And that is thanks to the perseverance of many who recognize the importance of what we do in Temerty Medicine and the consequences – especially for our learners – when we don't do it.
COVID-19 is not behind us. It lingers and will continue to impact life here in Toronto and worldwide. And there are new challenges before us. Some we know, like climate change, and some we have not yet encountered. However, I take comfort in knowing there is a new generation of graduates ready to help confront these challenges and identify new solutions. Whether as medical professionals working on the frontlines, researchers identifying new treatments, or rehabilitation specialists assisting those dealing with Long COVID recover, our communities and professions will be stronger because of the Class of 2022.
On behalf of the Temerty Faculty of Medicine, I offer my sincere congratulations to the Class of 2022. We look forward to seeing everything you will accomplish. And I want to thank the many people who have helped our graduates – faculty and staff, family and friends – reach the stage of Convocation Hall this June.
Trevor Young Dean, Temerty Faculty of Medicine Vice Provost, Relations with Health Care Institutions
