In June of 1961, after 4 years of hard work and study , we achieved our long held goal of being awarded the degree of Doctor of Medicine We then went our separate and disparate ways, initially into internships and residencies and then into practices spanning the entire field of medicine.
In hindsight, medicine in 1961 was in many ways primitive compared to that of today. One has only to think of the huge number of current diagnostic modalities , treatments, as well as insights into molecular biology and cytogenetics that were not available then. We were in practice at a time when the practice of medicine was rapidly changing and we adapted to that change. Most of us are now completely or partially retired although some remain in active practice. Now, at this once in a lifetime milestone, the 50th anniversary of our graduation, we can look back and recognize the remarkable achievements of our class.
Our classmates have practiced in every field of medicine with many having achieved national and even worldwide distinction for their professional accomplishments. Many have made significant contributions to the expansion of our medical knowledge. The achievements of our class are reflected in the large number of awards that will be bestowed on our classmates at the Alumni Reunion in May as well as awards bestowed at past Alumni Reunions. We have much to be proud of.
We must never forget our deceased classmates who, unfortunately, were unable to reach the milestone of our 50th graduation anniversary. Our thoughts go out to them at this time and always.
Finally, looking at our Downstate experience 50 years after the fact, I think that most, if not all of us, would agree that we received an excellent medical education that prepared us very well for our postgraduate positions and for the lifelong practice of medicine. Those of us who are in a position to do so should seriously consider expressing their thanks to Downstate by making a generous donation to the Class of 1961 Scholarship fund that will provide scholarship and other financial aid to current needy medical students, of whom there are many. This can be done in many ways: setting up a scholarship fund in your name, making a bequest to the class fund in your will or by sending in a donation to the class fund to the Alumni Office (alumni@downstate.edu). Any questions about donations can be directed to the Alumni Office or to me (yrosen@optonline.net).
Congratulations Class of '61
Yale Rosen
To The Class of 1961
