COM Welcomes Inaugural Class

Duquesne President Ken Gormley delivered the opening remarks, setting the stage for the momentous occasion. 
 
“This is a day that really means so much to not just us here at Duquesne, but the whole Pittsburgh region,” he said. “Knowing that we are going to focus on creating a new generation of primary care doctors that includes physicians for underserved urban and rural communities is exciting.”
 
“There's nothing like the energy of a new medical school and the inaugural class is always special,” said Dr. John Kauffman, founding dean of the DUQCOM. “They are the pioneers.” 
 
More than 90 students participated in a comprehensive two-day orientation program, which featured a detailed review of the curriculum, introductions to faculty and staff, and a tour of the college’s state-of-the-art education and training simulation facilities. 
 
Approximately two-thirds of the DUQCOM class hails from Pennsylvania, with 43 percent having earned their degree from a Pennsylvania institution, including Duquesne. 
 
“We are surrounded by students who come with very high aspirations and tremendous drive,” continued Kauffman about the incoming cohort. “And faculty who are very excited to be here to provide them with the support they need to succeed.” 
 
Selected from over 4,300 applicants, the incoming class reflects Duquesne’s commitment to diversity and inclusion with more than 30 percent who are minorities or from underrepresented populations (32% and 19%, respectively). 
 
“These demographics show how we are striving to live that mission of being an inclusive osteopathic medical school,” emphasized Tyrone Carr, DUQCOM director of student affairs and diversity, equity and inclusion.
 
To kick off their medical school journey with a touch of fun, the students also enjoyed a unique trip aboard the Gateway Clipper. This excursion offered them a chance to bond with each other and their faculty while cruising along Pittsburgh’s three rivers. As the students took in the scenic views, they also got a preview of the institutions they will partner with for clinical experiences and the communities they will serve throughout their four years at the medical school.
 
"Our students will be heavily involved with community service projects, both locally in our region and then internationally. And that really is the fiber of what we do here, to grow physicians who have a heart for community service," said Associate Dean for Academic Affairs Dr. Renee Prater.
 
The DUQCOM is poised to make a lasting impact on its students and the community. The inaugural class began their journey with excitement and anticipation, marking the start of a new era for medical education at Duquesne.
 
“Duquesne has a long history of preparing excellent pre-med students and placing them in top medical schools,” Kauffman said. “Now, our bigger goal is to be the number one producer of physicians in the region by selecting students who really have a heart for people and a heart for service.”