“We are closer today than we have ever been,” said John T. Langell, M.D., Ph.D., M.P.H., M.B.A., as he presided over Northeast Ohio Medical University’s Commencement on Saturday, May 1.

It was the University’s 40th such event and his first as its leader. President Langell had fielded any number of questions while NEOMED was making plans to hold its event virtually, as a way to celebrate while maintaining physical distancing.

But on Monday morning after the event, Dr. Langell reflected at a campus update (also virtual, a new tradition in COVID-19 times) on its success, and what he found most touching about it: watching the hooding of students (traditionally done by faculty or staff) by family members and seeing the tears, happiness and joy that still took place. COVID-19 pandemic or not, the celebration went on.

This year’s 229 graduates comprised 135 from the College of Medicine, 80 from the College of Pharmacy and 14 from the College of Graduate Studies. In total, 232 degrees were conferred, with three dual degrees awarded to students enrolled in the College of Graduate Studies as well as the College of Medicine.

Beaming as he spoke, President Langell reminded the audience, “We are NEOMED – leaders of today AND tomorrow,” and referring with pride to the director of Ohio’s Department of Health, 1990 graduate Amy Acton, M.D., M.P.H. Calling her “Ohio’s top health professional,” Dr. Langell said, “Dr. Acton is what leadership looks like in a time of crisis.”

Dr. Langell predicted that upon graduation, “Our students’ preparedness will shine.”

From the brass fanfare that opened the event to the remarks from the three deans— Steven Schmidt, Ph.D., dean of the College of Graduate Studies; Elisabeth Young, M.D. (’85), dean of the College of Medicine; and Richard Kasmer, Pharm.D., J.D., dean of the College of Pharmacy – the mood was upbeat. Dr. Schmidt announced that this year marked the largest-ever class from the College of Graduate Studies, and said, “Thank you for the work you do as part of the ecosystem of wellness.”

Degrees conferred by the College of Graduate studies were the Doctor of Philosophy in integrated pharmaceutical medicine; Master of Arts in medical ethics and humanities; Master of Modern Anatomical Sciences; Master of Public Health; Master of Science in health-system pharmacy administration; and Master of Science in integrated pharmaceutical medicine.

Paul Bishop, president of the NEOMED Board of Trustees, congratulated the new graduates, as did Corrie Stofcho, M.D. (‘06), the president of the Alumni Association, who said that although times today are different from when she graduated, “you are prepared for anything” and promised them that NEOMED’s alumni association is there for them every step of the way.

Joy on their faces

It was the students who carried the celebration, with their congratulations to their classmates, triumphant smiles and warm thanks to their family, friends and NEOMED community members for helping them achieve this milestone. As each student was named, college by college, they had an opportunity to be shown on camera, being hooded or celebrating, and to say a few words. At the same time, those watching could – and did – send congratulations via chat messages.

Recognized for graduating at the top of their classes were Courtney Kromer, M.D., from the College of Medicine, and Taylor Baum, Pharm.D., from the College of Pharmacy.

A full list of graduates and honors can be found in the 2020 Commencement program.