Alumni Magazine Issue 5

School of Medicine Anniversary Gala This year the School of Medicine, Fremantle was thrilled to celebrate over 10 years of graduates at their Anniversary Gala. The first Medicine students commenced their studies in 2005, and since then the School has gone from strength to strength, engaging with rural communities through Learning on Country, focusing on Aboriginal health training and student recruitment, and establishing a strong reputation with the Australian Medical Council. Pioneering students, staff, donors and stakeholders were invited to the special cocktail event where they were addressed by Dean of the School, Professor Gervase Chaney. “Like the creation of the University itself, the launching of a new medical school in WA—and the first in a private and a Catholic university in Australia—15 years ago was an ambitious, bold and brave decision,” Professor Chaney said. “I would like to acknowledge the support of donors, alumni, volunteers, host families and other supporters, without whom the School would not be the success that it is." "With your continued support, the School will move from strength to strength, with aims to develop our research output, establish a rural and remote pathway for students in Broome and the Northwest, and grow our international partnerships, all while retaining our core strengths in quality teaching and learning, and great pastoral care.” A full photo gallery of the event can be found on the Notre Dame Alumni Facebook page. Medical Students' Assistance Fund Since the first School of Medicine graduates completed their studies a decade ago, over 1,000 caring and ethical medical professionals have graduated from Notre Dame. These individuals are now delivering quality healthcare all over Australia and around the world. Approximately two-thirds of Notre Dame’s students work part- time while studying, which can leave them unable to prepare for unexpected pressures or crises. Such crises can have a detrimental impact on students’ education. The School of Medicine, Fremantle has established the Medical Students’ Assistance Fund (MSAF). The MSAF alleviates burdens by providing short-term, immediate financial relief and has already helped a number of students. The School is seeking to raise $100,000 by June 2020. To find out more, or make a tax deductible donation, visit notredame.edu.au/msaf . Alumni Magazine – Page 11 M E D I C I N E