A sincere thank-you

Dear Colleagues,

As I write to you for the last time in my role as dean/CEO of Johns Hopkins Medicine, my main thoughts are of gratitude. It has been my distinct honor to work here and to collaborate with all of you.

As dean/CEO, I’ve had invitations to visit just about every state in the nation and every country in the world. But as you may have noticed, I like being here. I RSVP “no” more than “yes” to these overtures because I enjoy spending my time at Hopkins, and that’s largely because of all of you. My office staff likes to tease me about the fact that my schedule requires extra time between meetings so that when I walk around on campus I have a few moments to stop and say hello.

I’m always interested in hearing about your work and progress, of course, but I’m equally curious to hear about your kids or the latest book you’ve read. Even in these chats, your innovative spirit and passion shine through. This has always inspired me, and it will continue to be that way. Though I’ll miss chatting with all of you regularly, don’t count me out. You’ll still see me around campus from time to time, and I hope to have a few more of my own stories about travelling with my wife, visiting with my grandchildren, wrangling my dogs or sailing on the bay.

And I can’t begin to tell you how moved and honored–and surprised—I was when I learned that the Broadway Research Building would bear my name, and that an endowment fund, also in my name, would be established to help make sure we continue to attract the very best and brightest to Johns Hopkins Medicine. I’m not entirely sure I deserve these honors, but they nevertheless give me a great sense of pride to know that in the decades to come, I will be linked to this place that I love so dearly. I can’t begin to thank all those who made these wonderful honors possible, but please know all of you have my deepest appreciation.

My great fondness for you and Hopkins has never been something I have been shy about. I love this place. I love the innovation and discovery. I love the heart and minds of our people. I love walking the campuses and talking with so many of you. This will not change.

As I move on, it is important to me that each and every one of you, regardless of your role or geographic location, understands that you have a unique opportunity to make an impact each day. You have made us #1 for 21 years in a row, and I know that the same level of commitment to our mission will continue for many years to come.

I’m thankful to each of you for your support, dedication and enthusiasm. As I leave you in the very capable hands of Paul Rothman, I wish you the very best in all that you continue to do for health care in Baltimore, in Maryland, in Washington, D.C, in Florida and in the world.

With my warmest regards,

Edward D. Miller, M.D.
CEO of Johns Hopkins Medicine
Dean of the Medical Faculty