Exploring the History of a Growing Medical School through Vivid Personal Stories

• In Event: OHA Poster Session and Project Bazaar

Abstract

Objective: Our library has the honor and opportunity to conduct and collect oral history interviews with the University of Utah School of Medicine Alumni and Faculty. These interviews provide vivid personal stories that combine to illustrate our evolution from a small medical school to an academic health sciences research center with global impact.

Methods: The School of Medicine Alumni Association provided names of those who have made significant contributions to the field of medicine. A research associate from Eccles Health Sciences Library arranged to meet and interview those recommended. The project has expanded to include faculty and other researchers who have contributed to the growth and reputation of University of Utah Health Sciences.

Results: The University of Utah School of Medicine has been home to significant medical advancements in the last 50 years. We have been able to collect original stories from the physicians and researchers who were responsible for or directly involved in these developments:
Russell M. Nelson, MD ‘47
•Developed the first heart-lung bypass machine
•Performed the first open heart surgery in Utah
James O. Mason, MD ‘58
•Former Director, Center of Disease Control and Prevention
George G. Jackson, MD ‘45
•Conducted the first AIDS research study in the U.S.
Mary Lou Peak, MD ‘52
•Graduated with an R.N. and M.D.
C. Hilmon Castle, MD (Emeritus Faculty)
•Developed the Physician Assistant Profession

Conclusion: These interviews not only acknowledge the contributions of the interviewees but provide a lively picture of the history and accomplishments of the health sciences community.

Authors

• Heidi Greenberg, Eccles Health Sciences Library, University of Utah

• Nancy Lombardo, University of Utah, Eccles Health Sciences Library