Joan Y. Reede, MD, MS, MPH, MBA

 For more than 30 years, HMS has hosted Project Success, a six-week summer internship program for local high school students interested in pursuing biomedical careers. The program links students with scientists and physicians to engage in hands-on research, explore their interests in biomedicine, and foster their critical thinking skills. Last summer, HMS hosted 13 promising high school juniors and seniors who learned in HMS-affiliated science laboratories under the mentorship of science professionals. Participants also attended seminars with researchers and physicians; visited local hospitals and biotech companies; and developed their writing and public-speaking skills. 

For the last 64 years, Dr. Ronald Arky, the Daniel D. Federman Distinguished Professor of Medicine and Medical Education, has taught, advised, mentored, coached, and counseled medical students, trainees, and faculty at Harvard Medical School. In May, OCCE hosted a conversation, moderated by Dr. David Jones, to hear about Dr. Arky’s reflections on his journey to HMS, the changes he’s seen during his time here, and his advice for students embarking on their careers.

On June 3, OCCE hosted HMS’s 30th annual Excellence in Mentoring Awards ceremony, honoring recipients of the Young Mentor Award, the A. Clifford Barger Excellence in Mentoring Award, and the William Silen Lifetime Achievement in Mentoring Award. Dean George Daley welcomed attendees and thanked the awardees for building a legacy through mentoring, noting that mentorship benefits mentees, mentors, and the institution by preparing individuals for greater responsibility and community service. Over 100 members of the HMS community and awardee family members attended both in-person and virtually to celebrate the honorees.

In April, OCCE held another session in its ongoing “Dialogues” series, titled “Creating Space: Discussions in Challenging Times.” Since 2018, OCCE has hosted this series to provide a safe and informal space for meaningful community discussions. Sessions invite community members to explore topics such as cultural representation, imposter syndrome, psychological safety, dissent in organizations, and first-generation experiences. This series provides a dedicated space for participants to reflect, share their perspectives, voice concerns, and express aspirations.