“We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called ‘Opportunity,’ and its first chapter is New Year's Day.”
– Edith Lovejoy Pierce, British American poet
In less than two weeks, we will leave 2023 behind and – with the flip of a calendar – welcome a new year brimming with possibility. There is a unique sort of magic that comes with the start of a new year, don’t you think?
As the clock ticks past midnight on Dec. 31, whatever hesitations you have had about trying something new can be reevaluated. You can tackle old challenges from a different vantage point. Our proverbial slates can be wiped clean, and that wild idea you were afraid to pursue might become the impetus for a groundbreaking innovation.
So enamored is our society with the power of a fresh start that nearly 40% of Americans commit to at least one resolution they want to achieve in the new year. Truly, it is a time for reflection, rededication and hope.
Before we cross the threshold of 2024, I encourage you to explore and reflect upon the fantastic stories we shared from across The Ohio State University College of Medicine in our 2023 Annual Report. We achieved great things together!
There were life-changing discoveries and record-breaking research funding of more than $400 million. We led the way on several “firsts” in world-class patient care and clinical trials. And we made significant advancements in how we teach the next generation of health care professionals.
The stories in our annual report showcase the meaningful impact our faculty, staff and learners had – and will continue to have – on the lives of others. I am so proud of all we have accomplished. Collectively, we are creating the solutions needed now to transform the health of our communities in Ohio and beyond.
What stories will we share in our next annual report? Perhaps one of yours!
This coming year, I encourage you to be creative with old ideas and entertain the new, no matter how unusual. Take risks and remember, sometimes the most critical innovations – like Sir Alexander Fleming’s discovery of penicillin after a little mold grew in one of his petri dishes – come from the strangest beginnings. If you use this fresh start as a chance to think outside the box, you might be surprised at the greatness you will find.
May the new year bring you joy and inspiration!
Dean, College of Medicine
Leslie H. and Abigail S. Wexner Dean’s Chair in Medicine
Vice President for Health Sciences, Wexner Medical Center