Celebrating the Class of 2020

One of the great events we would be preparing for now, were these normal times, is spring convocation. It’s one of my favourite traditions. It is such a pleasure to see the smiles of proud graduates as they cross the stage at Convocation Hall, and the even prouder family and friends who are cheering them on from their seats. As with many things, COVID has forced us to be creative about how we maintain that tradition, while ensuring the health and wellbeing of all members of our community. We know how hard our graduates have worked and we want to celebrate their achievements.  
 
On June 2, we will do that with an online convocation ceremony led by our Chancellor, Rose Patten. Many of our programs are also finding ways to supplement that event with other online initiatives. However, convocation isn’t the end of our students’ association with the University of Toronto. As alumni, we hope they maintain a lifelong bond with U of T and the Faculty of Medicine. Even now, the University’s alumni team are delivering online programs. And, when it becomes possible again to do so, we hope to honour the Class of 2020 in person and at events like the annual alumni reunion. 
 
Among our priorities in responding to COVID has been ensuring those students who are eligible to graduate do so as fast as possible. It is evident how much their skills and expertise are needed to respond to the pandemic. Be it frontline health care workers, laboratory researchers, or rehabilitation specialists, U of T Medicine graduates are critical to strengthening our health system and delivering care. Our program leaders have been working diligently with our partner institutions and profession accreditors and regulators to do what can be done to ensure they join the workforce as soon as possible. And we’re working to support all learners to ensure they can maintain their program schedule to the greatest extent possible. That will require adaptation, resourcefulness and understanding as we work to balance the educational needs of our learners with the health and safety of our patients and other healthcare workers.  
 
When the Class of 2020 began their educational journey, few could have foreseen this ending. It rightfully makes people frustrated — even angry — at the situation. But rather than fixate on what can’t be changed, or despair at what has been lost, I am proud to see members of our community come together. We are finding ways to ensure our learners progress through their programs, graduate, and are recognized. I appreciate everyone who is working hard to make that happen and especially our students for their unwavering commitment to their education and training.  
 
I know you will all join me in congratulating the Class of 2020! Their dedication and resiliency are a legacy that will endure.  
 
Trevor Young 
Dean, Faculty of Medicine 
Vice Provost, Relations with Health Care Institutions