Dean Peter J. Awn welcomed the graduates and introduced the Class Day keynote speaker, Dr. Hilda Hutcherson, MD. Hutcherson is currently a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Senior Associate Dean for Diversity and Multicultural Affairs at the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons.
As Senior Associate Dean, she has worked to increase the enrollment of underrepresented minorities at Columbia P&S from eight percent in 2002 to 22 percent today. She is also a two-time recipient of the Gender Equity Teaching Award at P&S and was honored with the 2016 Columbia P&S Award for Excellence.
Hutcherson encouraged graduates to practice self-care and engage in activities that bring joy and relaxation, emphasizing the importance of work-life balance as well as nourishment and exercise.
“As future medical students I implore you to find your ‘medical voice’ and use it for good,” Hutcherson said.
A proponent of women’s empowerment and education, Hutcherson has made contributions as a contributing editor at Redbook, as well as a former columnist for Glamour and Essence and the author of three books. She has been named one of America’s Leading Physicians by Black Enterprise, one of the Top Doctors in New York by the Castle Connolly Guide, and is included in the Best Doctors in America database.
Hutcherson joined the Columbia faculty in congratulating the graduates as each was presented by Andrew Sunshine, Director of the Postbac Premed Program.
Following the presentation of graduates, the student address was delivered by William “Billy” Buffington IV, an NCAA Division I track and field athlete and a USCSA All-American ski racer. In his speech to fellow graduates, he reflected on the support that he found from the community during his time as a Postbac Premed student.