A Century of Brilliance

The internationally recognized U School of Medicine had humble beginnings in 1905, when the biology department offered a two-year medical course for the first time at the U. Some 14 students enrolled in the basic medical science courses, which were taught in three, top-floor classrooms of today's LeRoy Cowles Building on Presidents Circle.

One hundred years later, medical school alumni, faculty, and guests celebrated "A Century of Brilliance" on Oct. 14, 2005 at the School of Medicine's 100th anniversary gala in Salt Lake City.

James L. Parkin, M.D., Class of 1966, chair of the centennial committee and chair emeritus of the surgery department, and University of Utah President Michael K. Young opened the event, welcoming almost 300 participants to the celebration.

Former U President Chase N. Peterson, M.D., professor of family and preventive medicine, spoke of the school's mission.. Short talks highlighted three areas, education, research and health care. Speakers included Lynn B. Jorde, Ph.D., professor of human genetics, Eccles Institute of Human Genetics, Susan E. Mango, Ph.D., associate professor of oncological sciences, Huntsman Cancer Institute, and Jeffrey R. Saffle, M.D., professor of surgery and director of University Health Care's Burn Unit.

David J. Bjorkman, M.D. 1980, M.S.P.H., Dean of the School of Medicine, debut a short film, "A Century of Brilliance."A. Lorris Betz, M.D., Ph.D., Senior Vice President for Health Sciences, Executive Dean for the School of Medicine, and CEO of University Health Care gave the final remarks, closing a truly exceptional evening.

The DVD, "A Century of Brilliance," is available through the School of Medicine Alumni Relations Office at 801-585-1121.