Gator gratitude
Ahead of Thanksgiving, College of Medicine community members share what they are thankful for
Nov. 12, 2024 — Saving lives and researching cures have led students, trainees, staff, and faculty at the University of Florida College of Medicine to adapt fast-paced lifestyles. These individuals combine intelligence and compassion to provide exceptional care and make groundbreaking discoveries.
Patients and their families constantly express gratitude for care received at UF Health. With the season of giving thanks approaching, we asked UF College of Medicine community members to share, in their own words, what makes them grateful.
“Without a doubt, I am most thankful for my parents, two sisters, and friends who have encouraged and supported me with unwavering faith throughout my medical school journey so far. I would not be where I am today without every one of them.”
— Allie Kellner, M.D. Class of 2027
“I am most thankful for my family, who are my support system and exemplify the greatest forms of love. My favorite part of each day is making my morning coffee and meeting the sun as it peeks in the corner of my house. I am grateful to be a Gator because UF has given me a community and instilled a sense of confidence I will carry in all aspects of life — from home to hospital.”
— Luana Souza, PA Class of 2026
“I am thankful for the excellent training environment and outstanding mentorship support available at the University of Florida. I am finishing my final year of neurosurgery residency training and am confident that we have one of the best programs in the country. The housestaff across the University of Florida provide the highest level of care for patients, and I am proud to be a Florida Gator.”
— Brandon Lucke-Wold, M.D., Ph.D., neurosurgery resident and co-chair, UF Housestaff Council on Graduate Medical Education
“I am deeply thankful for my husband, who loves me unconditionally, offers never-ending encouragement, and the kind of support that inspires me to grow every day. Together, we’ve watched our family expand in the most beautiful way, welcoming not one, not two, but three precious grandsons since last Thanksgiving! I am overwhelmed with gratitude when I think of how our family is growing and our bonds are deepening. It truly is an incredible year for the Ray family.”
— Donna Ray, administrative specialist III, Quality and Patient Safety initiative
“In November, I’m always thankful to live in such a beautiful place with gorgeous weather. Memories of the summer humidity fade and I try to get outside as much as I can. I am also so thankful for all the resources the university provides for employees, especially the Higher Education Opportunity scholarship that covers tuition for my daughter’s enrollment at UF, where she is getting a great education.”
— Brigit Dermott, chief of staff, Office of the Dean
“There is so much to be thankful for! Family and friends, a wonderful team to work with, the opportunity to care for our fellow Floridians in such an amazing environment, and getting to work with so many creative and innovative folks from all around campus.”
— Patrick Tighe, M.D., M.S., executive director, Quality and Patient Safety initiative; associate dean for AI application and innovation; Donn M. Dennis, M.D., Professor in Anesthetic Innovation; Professor, Departments of Anesthesiology and Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine
