|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Ambassadorsby Jenny Vacca One member began volunteering after successfully battling cancer. Another admires the work of a physician-scientist who is making huge leaps in medical research. Still another is a longtime resident who has been an important part of Houston's growth as a national business center. They all chose to join The Partnership of Baylor College of Medicine as an outlet for their volunteer interests and as a way to show their support for the community. Formed in 2000 from the merger of Baylor Ten and The Guild, The Partnership is dedicated to supporting the College through fundraising, community advocacy and education. "The atmosphere of camaraderie in The Partnership family, combined with genuine dedication and commitment of the members, makes this a truly outstanding organization," said current Partnership President Virginia Reisman, Ed.D., a former educator and ardent Houston community volunteer. Since The Partnership's inception, membership has grown steadily. In 2005, the Baylor Women's Faculty Club joined, and by 2006 membership had doubled thanks to a gift from BCM trustee and Texas energy executive, Lester Smith and his wife Sue. As part of a five-year commitment to support the annual Partnership gala, The Smith Foundation also is underwriting new memberships for gala attendees and donors through 2010. Smith is one of the most passionate members of The Partnership. A two-time survivor of cancer, he believes if it weren't for the gifted minds at BCM, he wouldn't be here today. "It's wonderful to have a great party and raise funds, but we can make the most meaningful impact by being ambassadors for the College," Smith said. "It's about making our community aware of their health, joining us in our educational lectures and having them spread the word about Baylor to their husbands, wives, children, family and friends. This is accomplished one moment at a time, one person at a time and will inevitably save thousands, hopefully millions, of lives." The annual gala raises funds for a selected beneficiary. Past projects have included the Michael E. DeBakey Library & Museum and the Honor Your Father Campaign for Prostate Cancer. This year's beneficiary is Baylor Clinic, BCM's adult outpatient care facility, which opened in 2005. "This state-of-the art facility has the top doctors and the most advanced methods of treatment and care. It is a place where physicians and staff work together to help patients lead healthier lives," said Reisman. In addition to fundraising for the Clinic, a number of Partnership members are serving on an ad-hoc advisory committee on the "patient experience" that ultimately will help shape the programs and services offered by the Clinic. "The feedback we receive from Partnership members is incredibly valuable and provides a patient-based perspective from individuals who are invested in the overall success of the College," said Dr. Jeffrey Steinbauer, medical director of the Baylor Clinic. Other Partnership initiatives include a monthly lecture series that features a wide array of health topics ranging from nutritional supplements to cancer stem cell research and, according to Partnership Board Member and Past President Cora Sue Mach, provides an opportunity to bring cutting-edge medicine directly to the community. |
Patient CarePutting the Pieces Together: Megan's Story When Baby Heart Patients Grow Up Saying Goodnight to Sleeping Pills ResearchFrom a Sister's Illness... A Cancer Crusade EducationCommunity ServiceAlumni & DevelopmentBRASS Connections Help Students Soar College NewsPhysician Hall of Fame: College Receives One-of-a-Kind Signature Collection
People Working Together to Achieve Greatness
|
||
Volume 3, Issue 1, Spring 2007 |
|||
 |
|
BCM Home | BCM Intranet | Privacy Notices | Contact BCM | BCM Site Map © 2005-9 Baylor College of Medicine® |
|
| Last modified: October 10, 2008 |