Past, Present, Future at MU School of Medicine

In honor of the 150th Anniversary of the Medical School, we celebrate our Past (alumni), Present (faculty and staff) & Future (students)...

What the MU School of Medicine means to me...

Dr. Theodore J. Choma, MD — School of Medicine Faculty

“I came to MU 16 years ago after training and practicing in the Army for 14 years. The School of Medicine has given me the opportunity to care for a variety of complex patients. It has helped me grow as a teacher of medical students, residents, and fellows. Lastly, it has given me the opportunity to collaborate with those who have expertise in other fields on a variety of research projects that have advanced discovery. I believe that the MU School of Medicine, along with MU Health Care, remains Missourians' best hope for delivering cutting-edge health care into the foreseeable future."

Theodore J. Choma, MD, FAAOS
J. Vernon Luck, Sr Distinguished Professor and Vice Chairman
Director, Spine Division
Department of Orthopedic Surgery
Chairman, University Physicians, University of Missouri

What the MU School of Medicine means to me...

“To me, the School of Medicine means empowerment. The empowerment to be a dedicated scholar, and the empowerment to be a future physician who selflessly cares for their patients. Mizzou Med is a place where I can not only thrive as a student but also a place where I can learn what it means to dedicate my life sacrificially and wholeheartedly to others, whether they're patients or fellow students.”

Terrell Christian
Class of 2026
MD Candidate
Kearney, MO

What the MU School of Medicine means to me...

Barbara Buchanan McCanse, MD — *Class of 1965*

“My education at MU School of Medicine gave me the knowledge and ability to practice a profession that I truly loved. Helping suffering children and their families feel better was very rewarding. You will never find a more interesting profession. The intellectual stimulation that I had at MU has also inspired me to become a lifelong learner and to love all others and life."

Barbara Buchanan McCanse, MD
Class of 1965
Psychiatry
Kansas City, MO

What the MU School of Medicine means to me...

Michael E. Jones, MD, AGAF — *Class of 1997*

"My medical school experience was both memorable and rewarding. Mizzou Med prepared me to practice quality, compassionate medicine and to participate as a leader in my healthcare community. I am very proud and grateful to be an alumnus of the 150 years of tradition at the University of Missouri School of Medicine.”

Michael E. Jones, M.D., AGAF
Class of 1997
Gastroenterology
Crestview Hills, KY

What the MU School of Medicine means to me...

Andrea Simmons — School of Medicine Staff

"The School of Medicine has been a place that represents community, professional and personal growth and development. As a staff member, I have the pleasure to engage and create a community with our students. We learn and grow, collaborate, and empower one another. As a professional, I have the support to build and implement effective programs for pre-medical and medical students. By far, one of my favorite experiences is presenting at a conference with our brilliant students. The School of Medicine continues to nurture and shape my career development.”

Andrea Simmons
Mizzou MedPrep Senior Program Manager
School of Medicine
University of Missouri

What the MU School of Medicine means to me...

"To me, the School of Medicine is a symbol of my persistence. When I walk through the halls of the Patient-Centered Care Learning Center each day, I am reminded that although my path back to academia was far from linear, it was always destined. At MU Med, I am surrounded by a community of faculty, peers and alumni supporting me at every turn. I look forward to the day I will contribute to the legacy of inspiring Mizzou Made physicians that came before me."

Paola Rivera
Class of 2026
MD Candidate
Kansas City, MO