Dear Fellow Rush Alumni,
This past year was pivotal and inspiring, and I hope 2026 will follow suit. As the newly elected President of the Rush Medical College Alumni Association, I had the honor of speaking at the White Coat Ceremony. It was moving to see the new class of superstars who have committed themselves to a lifetime of helping others lead healthy lives. Kudos to the Admissions Committee for selecting 144 stellar members of the RMC Class of 2029 from more than 13,000 applications.
The speakers were outstanding. Vice Dean Lee Jones shared moving stories from his training that underscored the importance of truly listening to our patients. It was also reassuring to hear Dr. Robert Higgins speak about supporting students during these challenging times.
After the presentations, the students introduced themselves, and we coated them. It was an honor, though not as easy as it sounds. They were so tall! Next time, I may ask for a ladder.
Rush continues to attract exceptional leaders, including Dr. Pete Batra, the recently appointed dean of Rush Medical College. I look forward to working with him as Rush continues to grow. Even amidst this growth, Rush remains grounded in the values that drew many of us here: innovative teaching, strong clinical preparation, community engagement and an unwavering commitment to health equity. I see these values firsthand every year when I interview applicants whose accomplishments and service inspire me and make me proud to be a Rush graduate.
Even amidst this growth, Rush remains grounded in the values that drew many of us here: innovative teaching, strong clinical preparation, community engagement and an unwavering commitment to health equity.
The RMCAA is committed to supporting these future physicians and matching the excellence we see throughout the institution. We are exploring new ways to deepen our impact and strengthen support for students. Personally, in 2025 I started a scholarship for RMC students in the name of my son, Aaron Lloyd Margolin. Our goal is to ensure that our work continues to uplift students so they can embody the excellence of Rush.
Please consider making a gift to the RMC Student Success Fund. Your support helps ease the financial burden for students, many of whom graduate with significant debt.
Rush is an outstanding institution, and it is through the support of alumni like you and me that we help carry it forward on its path of continued success, growth, service and impact.
Proud to be a Rush graduate,
David Margolin, MD ’77, PhD, JD, GME
Rush Medical College Alumni Association President
