The Scope E-Newsletter March 2009

In these tumultuous times, attending to details is paramount. However, in doing so, it is easy to forget the big picture of UT Graduate School of Medicine. I would like to take a few moments to illustrate how we are continuing to take steps toward achieving our goal of national recognition in medical education.

As you know, last fall we initiated the Virtual Research Organization (VRO) with participation from existing faculty and staff as well as those in the UTK system who could assist us in this effort, including Eric Heidel for statistics. I am delighted to report the number of residents and faculty using the VRO for support is growing rapidly. The Graduate School of Medicine intranet, called the Pulse, explains how to use the VRO. Concomitantly, Dr. Lorraine Wallace and Dr. Bill Metheny created a research workshop specifically for our fellows with a base in the VRO.

On March 1, 2009, we took another step forward in reaching our goal by creating a new office entitled the "Office of Medical Education and Research," which will house the existing VRO and a new venture to enhance the teaching efforts of our faculty, fellows and residents. Dr. Lorraine Wallace has graciously agreed to serve as administrative director of this new office as well as continuing to share her knowledge and talent with all departments. She will work closely with Dr. Metheny who came to us with a strong background in faculty development. As you would expect, this office will work with the Academy of Scholars Committee, the Simulation Center and others to improve our educational efforts, including the creation of a Residents as Teachers Program. The kick-off for our faculty development component is on the morning of Friday, April 3, with two excellent guest speakers (see separate article in this issue of The Scope). I encourage anyone involved in teaching to attend this event.

A separate article in the future will detail the goals and objectives of the Office of Medical Education and Research and its location. It is important to understand that we are building this initiative with current resources, thereby requiring no new significant financial resources. I want to thank everyone involved for making personal sacrifices in order to contribute to our mission.

Although it may seem as if we are living under a dark cloud, keep in mind there are many "bright spots" in the Graduate School of Medicine and we are moving forward. If you would like to note a "Bright Spot," please contact Communications and Outreach or me, and we will place it in The Scope for everyone to enjoy.

James J. Neutens, PhD, FASHA
Dean