George Bernard Shaw once said, “Progress is impossible without change.” Here at EVMS, recent changes in our three areas of focus have set the stage for great progress that will ultimately benefit our community.

First, education. “Service learning,” which is now formalized within our MD curriculum, is a way of integrating community service with structured learning and first-hand experiences. In this issue, find out how a real-word context strengthens the clinical skills and compassionate care of our future physicians.

Second, research. In September, we welcomed world-renowned scholar Elias Siraj, MD, to lead our Strelitz Diabetes Center. And EVMS’ cancer researchers continue taking meaningful steps toward more effective, personalized cancer treatments. The Rounds section has details about both of these advances.

Third, patient care. In our feature story, we report on why EVMS is training primary-care physicians to serve the healthcare needs of seniors — along with changes we all can make to increase the likelihood of good health as we age.

On a lighter note, EVMS students and alumni might smile as I did when they see a different side of Ann Campbell, PhD, Associate Dean of Student Affairs. Discover how she unwinds off campus in Off Campus.

Progress might be impossible without change, but it is also impossible without you. Thank you for providing EVMS with the support and resources that propel us forward.