Jewish medical students find community within Duke School of Medicine
Calling all Jewish Medical students seeking community – your search ends here!
The Jewish Medical Students Association (JMSA) was officially recognized by the Davison Council, the student government organization for the Duke Doctor of Medicine program, as a new student group, on February 23, 2024.
Dedicated to fostering a supportive environment for Jewish medical students, JMSA provides a platform for sharing life experiences, engaging in reflective dialogue, and nurturing personal and professional growth.
Led by President Dorothy Gheorghiu T’21, MD’26, Vice President Jaye Boissiere MD’26, and Treasurer Hannah Concannon MD’26, this group was founded to offer a sense of belonging and understanding to Jewish students within the Duke Med community.
Explaining the significance of JMSA’s presence on campus, Dorothy emphasized, “Especially amidst a particularly strong resurgence of antisemitism, I felt that we needed to provide a safe place for Jewish students on campus, where we can support, embrace, and uplift one another.”
JMSA marked its inception with a lively gathering at the Freeman Center for Jewish Life on March 2, 2024. Attendees bonded over a bagel lunch and engaged in introductory games, setting the tone for a warm and inclusive community. Participant Grace Jager shared, “My experience at the JMSA bagel brunch event was so special as I got to meet new people. I am excited to participate in future events and celebrate upcoming holidays together.” Through social events like these, JMSA aims to facilitate connections among Jewish medical students, faculty, and other graduate students, fostering a sense of camaraderie and support within the Duke community.
Learn More About JMSA
To learn more about JMSA and upcoming events, follow @jmsa_duke on Instagram, check out their listing on the Duke University School of Medicine Student Group page and email dorothy.gheorghiu@duke.edu to be added to the email list! Additionally, email jewishlife@duke.edu to be added to the weekly all-graduate/professional school student email list.
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About Jewish Life at Duke
Jewish Life at Duke (JLD) is the hub for all things Jewish on Duke’s campus. An accredited Hillel as well as a department within Duke University’s Division of Student Affairs, Jewish Life at Duke is guided by a mission to empower Jewish students to learn and grow intellectually and spiritually; to inspire and nurture personal paths to Jewish identity; and to cultivate community and friendship. Comprising the Freeman Center for Jewish Life and the Rubenstein-Silvers Hillel, JLD takes a pluralistic approach to Judaism to ensure that all Jewish students, regardless of affiliation, are welcome and included.
100% of JLD’s operating budget comes from donations from alumni, parents, and friends.
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