Dean Mark Richardson and Associate Dean Tana Grady-Weliky welcomed over 175 students from the American Medical Student Association (AMSA) District X conference to OHSU over the December 4 weekend.  

Keynote speaker Martin Donohoe, MD, Adjunct Associate Professor in Community Health at Portland State University, discussed "Do Something: Activism 101 for Medical Students and Physicians," arguing that speaking up for those who had no voice was an integral part of the physician's charge. School of Medicine alumna Kavita Patel, MD, MS, Director of Policy for the White House Office of Public Engagement and Intergovernmental Affairs, closed the conference with a timely behind-the-scenes look at the national health care reform debate. In between, delegates selected from 29 breakouts on subjects ranging from Surgical Skills Workshops to Creating International Health Experiences, attended an exhibit fair, rode the Portland Aerial Tram and sampled Portland night life.  

Conference leadership was provided by Kate Menninger, MS3, Leela Rao, MS2, Anne Siler, MS2 and an organizing committee of 37 School of Medicine students. "We were very happy with the way everything turned out " said Lee Shapley, MS2, AMSA District X Chapter President. "The strong program and interactive sessions gave delegates a great opportunity to make professional connections that can last a lifetime."

Pictured: Dr. Donohoe discusses activism in medicine during his keynote address.