100th Anniversary Celebrated

Loma Linda University School of Medicine (LLUSM) recently concluded its five-year Centennial Celebration (2009-2014), marking 100 years since the founding of the school to the 100th anniversary of the first graduating class. A community celebration was held on June 1 outside LLU Centennial Complex. “We would like to thank all those who joined us in celebration of this remarkable milestone in the history of Loma Linda University and its School of Medicine,” said Dr. Roger Hadley, dean of the School of Medicine. The early 1900's themed anniversary bash was a free event open to the entire community and featured thematic music and entertainment as well as food trucks and a fireworks show to end the night. An estimated 700 people attended throughout the evening. Loma Linda University School of Medicine opened its doors in 1909 as the College of Medical Evangelists and graduated its first class of six students on June 11, 1914. It was the smallest class to ever graduate from the school with just two women and four men. This year, on May 25, LLUSM graduated its largest class ever with 171 medical students. Over 10,500 students have graduated over the last 100 years. LLUSM continues to have a growing impact in the Inland Empire and beyond. This year, 51% of LLUSM students matched to primary care positions, and half of the practicing medical doctors in San Bernardino County either trained at or currently teach at Loma Linda University or both. Hadley continued, “We are proud to continue fulfilling the legacy of our founders to educate and create the health care leaders of the future for many years to come.”