Old Dominion University (ODU) and Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS) have announced a landmark integration to form Virginia’s largest academic health sciences center in an event termed “Startup Collaboration ODU EVMS.” The collaboration, effective from July 1, 2024, aims to address key healthcare needs and elevate the region’s educational and medical services. The celebration of the merger was marked by substantial donations, including a $20 million donation from Dennis and Jan Ellmer for health sciences scholarships, and a $20 million gift from Joan Brock to establish the Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at ODU. The merger was supported by Governor Glenn Youngkin and other state leaders, who emphasized the potential for enhanced regional health outcomes, workforce solutions, and the attraction of top medical talent. A partnership with Sentara Health, pledging $350 million over the next decade, further solidifies the center’s future. This integration is seen as heralding a new era of opportunity and innovation in healthcare and education for Hampton Roads.
Introduction
By Tim Ryan
Landmark Integration Announcement
In a landmark event, Old Dominion University (ODU) and Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS) have officially announced their integration, forming Virginia’s largest academic health sciences center. Effective July 1, 2024, the merger aims to address critical healthcare needs and elevate the region’s educational and medical services.
Celebration Highlights
Key highlights from the celebration include a $20 million donation from Dennis and Jan Ellmer, which created significant scholarships for health sciences students, and a $20 million gift from Joan Brock, which established the Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at ODU. These transformative contributions underscore the commitment to fostering healthcare excellence and accessibility in Hampton Roads.
Government Support and Partnerships
Governor Glenn Youngkin and other state leaders emphasized the merger’s potential to enhance regional health outcomes, address workforce shortages, and attract top medical talent. The partnership with Sentara Health, pledging $350 million over the next decade, further solidifies the center’s future.
Future Outlook
This integration signifies a new era of opportunity and innovation in healthcare and education for Hampton Roads, promising improved healthcare access and groundbreaking medical advancements.
Question & Answer
What is the significance of the integration between Old Dominion University (ODU) and Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS)?
The integration between ODU and EVMS forms Virginia’s largest academic health sciences center, aiming to address critical healthcare needs and elevate the region’s educational and medical services.
What were some key donations made to support the merger celebration?
Significant donations included a $20 million contribution from Dennis and Jan Ellmer for health sciences scholarships, and a $20 million gift from Joan Brock to establish the Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences at ODU.
How is the government supporting this integration?
Governor Glenn Youngkin and other state leaders are supporting the merger, emphasizing its potential to enhance regional health outcomes, address workforce shortages, and attract top medical talent.
What partnership further solidifies the future of the academic health sciences center?
A partnership with Sentara Health, pledging $350 million over the next decade, further solidifies the future of the center.
