Richard V. Homan, MD


When I arrived at EVMS in 2012, everywhere I turned, we were partnering with another organization on a project or program that would either improve our community's health or sharpen our students' skills. I quickly learned that for EVMS — an institution founded by the community, for the community — partnerships are our lifeblood.

From our 30-year collaboration with Norfolk Public Schools to our selection for the global collaborative created by IBM Watson Health, EVMS has a history of working well with others is evident not only around the region but the nation as well.

In June, our longstanding partnership with Sentara Healthcare was strengthened when four faculty members were named the inaugural recipients of the EVMS/Sentara Endowed Chair for Academic Leadership Advancement. Each will occupy the chair for five years, and his or her work will benefit from a $1 million endowment established through support from Sentara Healthcare.

Also, with this edition of EVMS Magazine, we introduce three new features. In Vision Quest, read stories about how we are fulfilling our vision to be the most community-oriented school of medicine and health professions in the nation. In Off Campus, get to know our faculty and staff members by learning about their lives outside of EVMS. And in Old School, revisit EVMS' early days—to remember how far we have come.

Let me be quick to add that we have come this far only because of your support. You are EVMS' most essential partner, and for that we are forever grateful.