[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 98 (Tuesday, June 11, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E613]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





  CELEBRATING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA 
                      MORSANI COLLEGE OF MEDICINE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. KATHY CASTOR

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 11, 2024

  Ms. CASTOR of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate a 
significant milestone in the field of education, health care and 
community enrichment--the 50th anniversary of the University of South 
Florida (USF) Health Morsani College of Medicine. For half a century, 
this respected institution has been a beacon of innovation, excellence 
and service, shaping the future of medicine and health care in our 
community and beyond.
  Founded in 1971, the USF Morsani College of Medicine has consistently 
demonstrated a steadfast commitment to educate the next generation of 
physicians, advance medical knowledge through cutting-edge research, 
and provide compassionate, patient-centered care to individuals and 
communities in need. As we mark the 50th anniversary of the graduating 
charter class in 2024, we reflect on the school's remarkable journey. 
Over the past five decades, it has not only met but exceeded its 
ambitious objectives, leaving an enduring impact on medical education 
and practice. From pioneering research to improving patient care, the 
Morsani College of Medicine has made its mark in the Tampa Bay 
community, shaping the landscape of health care for generations to 
come.
  The contributions made by the Morsani College of Medicine to the 
field of medicine and health care are far reaching. Through its 
comprehensive academic programs, cutting-edge research facilities and 
collaborations with valued health care institutions like Tampa General 
Hospital, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center, and local VA hospitals, the 
College has produced generations of highly skilled and compassionate 
medical professionals who made invaluable contributions to their 
respective fields. Whether in primary care, specialty medicine, or 
research, graduates of the College of Medicine have consistently 
exemplified the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and 
excellence.
  The Morsani College of Medicine plays a pivotal role in addressing 
the current doctor shortage crisis we are facing in Florida. After a 
population boom during the pandemic, the Tampa Bay area has a dire need 
for doctors. USF is meeting the moment by training high-caliber 
physicians, many of whom want to stay and practice in the state. Over 
the five decades since its inaugural graduating class, the USF Health 
Morsani College of Medicine has bestowed the prestigious medical degree 
upon nearly 5,100 graduates.
  The impact of the Morsani College of Medicine extends far beyond the 
boundaries of its campus. Through its commitment to community 
engagement and service, the College has played a pivotal role in 
addressing the health care needs of my neighbors in Tampa Bay.
  From providing essential health care services to vulnerable 
communities to spearheading groundbreaking research initiatives aimed 
at combating health disparities, the College of Medicine has remained 
committed in its dedication to improving the health and well-being of 
all members of our community, regardless of their background or 
socioeconomic status.
  As a proud co-founder and co-chair of the Academic Medicine Caucus, I 
am firmly dedicated to promoting and recognizing the important role 
that medical schools, teaching hospitals and faculty physicians play to 
improve the health of people everywhere. As we celebrate the 50th 
anniversary of the Morsani College of Medicine, let us not only reflect 
on its great past but also look ahead to a future filled with infinite 
potential and possibility. I will continue to support and nurture the 
Morsani College of Medicine as it embarks on its next chapter of 
excellence, innovation and service to our Tampa Bay neighbors, and the 
residents of Florida and the United States.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in extending heartfelt 
congratulations to the University of South Florida Health Morsani 
School of Medicine on this momentous occasion. May the next 50 years be 
marked by even greater achievements, medical advancements, and the 
improvement of the lives of the residents of Florida and the United 
States.

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