In 1901, an English composer named Edward Elgar encountered what he described as “a tune that comes once in a lifetime.” This composition gained significant popularity in England, leading to discussions about potentially replacing “God Save the Queen” with it as the English national anthem. This musical piece, known as “Pomp and Circumstance,” is part of a series of marches composed by Elgar and was performed during the 1902 coronation of Edward VII. Its adoption in the United States is believed to have originated from the conferral of an honorary degree upon Mr. Elgar at Yale University and has since become synonymous with graduation processions. As we commemorate the graduation of students from various institutions, including medical school, during this time of year, the song is frequently heard. It is undoubtedly a special time, and we honor the graduates by featuring their names in this issue of “Tulsa Medicine.” Congratulations to the graduates and their families during this significant period, and we wish them the best of luck as they embark on the next phase of their training.
Next month, the Tulsa County Medical Society & TCMS Foundation will open applications for the Medical Student Scholarships. This is for medical student members in their second, third, and fourth year enrolled at OU-TU School of Community Medicine and OSU College of Osteopathic Medicine. Since 1965, we have provided $1.49 Million in scholarship aid to 1,333 medical students. Thanks to our members’ generosity, we provide over $35,000 annually in scholarships to medical students. This includes several named scholarships established through legacy and planned gifts. If you would like to contribute to our scholarship efforts, visit https://www.tcmsok.org/scholarship-program or contact Mark McElreath at 918.743.6184 or mark@tcmsok.org.
Also inside this edition of the Tulsa Medicine, you’ll see photos from several social events from the past few weeks. These events offer a valuable opportunity for our members to build camaraderie, strengthen their connections, and foster a sense of community that we often miss within the workplace. These interactions not only enhance professional relationships but also create a platform for forming new connections and friendships that can positively impact personal and professional growth. The value of social gatherings extends beyond networking and socializing, as they contribute to overall wellness by promoting a supportive and inclusive environment that enhances mental well-being and boosts morale among colleagues.
After dedicating four years of service to Project TCMS, Beverly Thompson retired in May 2024. Her retirement marks the end of a chapter filled with passion and commitment to making a difference in the community. As she embarks on this new chapter of their life, her service and compassion will continue to inspire others to follow in her footsteps. Thank you Beverly!
Lastly, we would like to take this opportunity to spotlight an upcoming TCMS fundraiser scheduled for Saturday, August 3, 2024, at the University of Tulsa Lorton Performance Theater. This theater, established in 2011 as TU’s premier facility for the musical and performance arts, will headline the event.
The fundraiser will showcase comedian Sheng Wang, an internationally acclaimed performer with comedy specials featured on Netflix, HBO, and Comedy Central. A 2002 graduate of the University of California, Berkeley, Wang was lauded by the New York Times for his "droll and relaxed delivery, which further enhances the focus and inventiveness of his material." We are thrilled to present this event to our members and their guests!
Stephen D. Bruns, MD, FACS
TCMS President
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