Greetings. We had an interesting weekend, as we headed up to Manhattan to see our niece perform in the show “Titanique,” which she co-wrote and in which she also has the lead role. Her image is plastered on posters in Penn Station and on the sides of buses. We are so proud of her. It is eerie but impossibly sweet to remember her as a 3-year-old spontaneously hopping onto tables in restaurants to belt out the song “Tomorrow” from the musical “Annie.” I guess I really can say that she was called to be a singer and stage performer. It was a marvelous evening of theater.
I worked on the CCSG on the trains to and from New York; I was going to focus on another CCSG-relevant section in this blog, but then this happened.
As you know, Georgetown recently launched the Called to Be campaign, a $3 billion ambition to advance our university’s commitment to empowering principled leaders and skilled problem-solvers and strengthening the health and social fabric of communities worldwide. Earlier this week, I was asked by Advancement to answer a few questions that they will use in publications. The exercise of thinking about these questions was a good one. As I share my responses with you, I’d encourage you to also think about what you are Called to Be. Here are the questions and responses.
Many of Georgetown’s faculty and students are working to advance the health of people and the planet. Can you talk about your work toward that goal?
The Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center’s mission is to pursue transformative research and its application in order to more effectively prevent and treat cancer while eliminating disparities at the individual, community and global levels, guided by the principle of cura personalis, “care for the whole person.” Our vision is to impact our diverse catchment area, the nation and beyond by pushing scientific knowledge, creativity, and application; serving all with compassion, equity and respect; and preparing individuals who will devote themselves to reducing the severity of cancer on the individual, family, and community through improved access to care. This is my passion, and this is why I have chosen to work at Georgetown for the past 15 years.
- Why is Georgetown the best place for your work?
The University lives its credo of cura personalis, which embodies our values and represents the ideal we strive to achieve. - Why is now the right time for your work?
Scientific and clinical accomplishments and impacts ring hollow unless they are coupled with meaningful action in service of improved health and equitable outcomes for all. I can think of no place better equipped than Georgetown to turn this idea into action. - What makes you the most excited about your work?
The thrill of scientific discovery and the satisfaction of helping patients navigate their personal journeys towards the prevention, early interception and cure of cancer. - What makes you most optimistic about Georgetown and this work moving forward?
Georgetown is the right place and the right time for the work we do. I am especially excited to work with our trainees, whose paths towards advanced degrees and certifications add inspiration and vigor to our scientific endeavors. They keep us all on our toes! - What do you feel you are called to do and be?
I am called to be a change agent, and to help make the world just a bit better by doing work that matters, has impact, and brings with it struggle, satisfaction and the joy of doing something well. Georgetown has given me opportunities to pursue my research, clinical care, mentorship, education and leadership. I am grateful and proud to be here.
Now, back to work. Have a great week. Stay safe and be well.
Lou
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the text belong solely to the author, and not necessarily to the author’s employer, organization, committee or other group or individual.