Rowan-Virtua SOM Class of 2026 begins next chapter in medicine

More than 200 new physicians officially joined the osteopathic medical profession as the Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2026 during commencement ceremonies held May 14 on Rowan University’s campus. Held outdoors at Rowan’s Coach Richard Wackar Stadium, the ceremony brought together students, faculty, family and friends to recognize the accomplishments of the school’s newest doctors as they prepare to begin residency training and careers in medicine. Part of the Virtua Health College of Medicine & Life Sciences, Rowan-Virtua SOM celebrated the achievements of its graduates as they prepare to enter the next phase of their medical careers.

SOM Dean Richard Jermyn praised the graduates for embodying the school’s mission through leadership, scholarship, service and compassionate patient care. He highlighted the class’s extensive community outreach efforts, advocacy work and commitment to addressing healthcare disparities.

“A hallmark of this class is your selfless approach to medicine, community service and responding to the needs of others,” Jermyn said. “Your contributions to the school, our communities, and to one another are inspiring.”

Jermyn noted that nearly three-quarters of the class contributed to scholarly research during medical school, resulting in more than 25 published journal articles spanning areas including women’s health, cancer screening, addiction medicine and critical care. He also recognized the class’s leadership on campus and its mentorship of underrepresented and prospective students through programs including the Health Care Opportunities Program (HCOP).

The ceremony included presentation of the Medal of Excellence to Dr. Thomas Cavalieri, honored for his transformative leadership and longstanding contributions to osteopathic medicine and medical education. Presented by Vice Dean for Clinical Affairs Joshua Coren, the award recognized Cavalieri’s role in guiding the institution’s evolution, expanding medical education opportunities and advancing geriatric care throughout the region.

Class President Tanvi Shah reflected on the historic nature of the graduating class, which was the first to train under the Rowan-Virtua banner and the first to study at the Sewell campus. Shah praised her classmates for persevering through change while building a foundation for future students.

“We are the future of medicine and with that comes taking up the mantle of generations before us and continuing the journey for the generations behind us,” Shah said.

During the ceremony, graduates recited the Osteopathic Oath led by Vice Dean for Academic Affairs & Student Services Millicent Channell before crossing the stage to receive their Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degrees.

Closing the ceremony, Jermyn shared a story from a community COVID-19 vaccination clinic that reflected the impact physicians can have through even the smallest acts of care and compassion.

“As you leave here today, I want you to carry with you the powerful truth that your impact is never small,” Jermyn said. “It has the power to change lives, save lives, and in the process, it will transform your own.”