College of Medicine celebrates 125th anniversary

On June 14, 1881, a group of 19th Century physicians incorporated the medical college that is now the UNMC College of Medicine.

Some 125 years later, the College of Medicine is celebrating its quasquicentennial with a series of celebratory activities and events planned to recognize this historic occasion.

1880 or 1881? For years, the question has been asked: Did the College of Medicine begin in 1880 or 1881? The Nebraska School of Medicine, Preparatory opened its doors to medical students on Oct. 18, 1880, with a 20-week curriculum and 14 students enrolled. After a successful initial year, the faculty of that school incorporated the Omaha Medical College on June 14, 1881. Hence, the 1881 date is recognized as the birth of what is now the College of Medicine. In 1881, the first medical college building was erected at 11th and Mason Streets for $4,266, with funds invested by each faculty member.

“This important milestone provides opportunities to not only recognize and appreciate our past, but to celebrate and dedicate ourselves to an even brighter future,” said John Gollan, M.D., Ph.D., dean of the College of Medicine. “We are indebted to the many men and women who have come before us and built this college into what it is today; we will build upon their foundation to provide the highest quality patient care and education, to conduct the most innovative research and to serve our communities.”

Dr. Gollan has appointed Internal Medicine Professor Michael Sorrell, M.D., as chairman of the committee that will oversee and organize events and programs celebrating the college’s 125th anniversary.

Already, banners have been erected on light poles on campus, and some upcoming special events have been planned for faculty, staff, students and alumni. Those events include:

• A campus celebration on Wednesday, June 14, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Swanson Courtyard. Music, games, free food and prizes will highlight this celebration, which is open to all campus employees. T-shirts will be available for purchase for $5.
  
• A golf and social event at the beginning of the school year for students and faculty.
  
• Several activities at the College of Medicine alumni reunions on Oct. 6 and Oct. 7.
  In addition, a historical display about the College of Medicine will be on display at the Durham Western Heritage Museum from late September until mid-November.