Message from the Chair | April 2026
Alumni and Friends,
As the Medical Center celebrates 100 years of Strong Memorial Hospital (and 105 years of our department), we’ve enjoyed looking back at how and why the institution started. History has a nostalgic way of reminding us about those who came before, and their ability throughout times of challenge and success to reach new heights. Over the last century, our department has realized many milestones, many victories, all of which have made us what we are in this moment.
History also reinforces how well-equipped we are to go the distance, taking advantage of the talent and dedication our faculty and staff bring to the table–those from days past, our current team, and those to come. Neil Blumberg, MD, recalls many such memories of colleagues–be sure to read about his long and impactful pathology career on page 5.
I recently shared details about our strategic planning process that is underway. We’re examining where we are and brainstorming ways to further strengthen our clinical enterprise, educational programs, and research endeavors. The process is energizing as we consider our great potential.
Pathology, like all of Medicine, is evolving at a rapid pace and the future is bright. It will offer us new opportunities resulting from research findings, new technologies and, frankly, things we can’t yet predict.
What I am certain of, however, is the road before us and the successes to come will advance the missions of our department and our institution. May all of us, wherever we are, continue to strive for excellence in an effort to ultimately impact the lives of patients.
History is being made where you stand. Meliora,
Christa L. Whitney-Miller, MD
Chair, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
The Frieda Robscheit-Robbins Professor