For information on this organization, go to their new website: http://sites.google.com/site/medicalstudentalliance/ Medical Student Alliance Update Our theme for the year is “Keeping It Light.” Our plans center around four areas of focus: Strengthening medical marriages and forming good relationships with other couples; keeping informed and being involved with legislation; lifting others up through community and compassionate service; and not taking ourselves too seriously by having fun and keeping things light. We spent the summer working on our two fundraisers—the medical student directory and silent auction. Thanks to all the MSA board members who worked very hard to make these happen. We’re also grateful to all the county alliances who supported us through both. Recent Events: Also in September was our silent auction at SL County’s picnic. The kids had a hilarious time with the magician, Paul Brewer, who entertained. September also brought our first cooking club meeting, which alternates every other month with our book club. Playgroup met at Hogle Zoo in October and will go to the Museum of Natural History Nov. 2. We have also been trying to keep our members informed with legislation updates, and were happy that several MSA members were able to attend the House of Delegates. October 16th we had a “Finance, Legislation, and Pizza Night,” an informative Friday date with free food for all who came and a movie for the kids in the room next door. Michelle McOmber, the CEO of UMA, kindly took her Friday night to share an update on current legislation in health care. Ryan Bladen from UMA Financial Services also contributed his evening and shared many applicable insights about planning our finances now and in the future. Mark Halverson, a Radiology resident, and his wife Mandy also shared their experiences with finances throughout medical school and transitioning to residency. We felt this was a very worthwhile, fun evening and are grateful to all who made it happen. December 5th was our annual Holiday Party for all medical students and spouses. We had baby-sitting, a dinner catered partly by TGIFridays, and a fun white elephant gift exchange. We set up some remaining silent auction items for a steal as Christmas gift ideas. Thank you to our awesome socials committee! Service: Throughout the past few months, Melinda Frandsen headed up planning and decorating our tree, sponsored by SL County, for the Festival of Trees. She did a fantastic job around the theme “Heavenly Healers,” and found some beautiful porcelain doll angels among other things. We all had fun helping her decorate a little bit and were grateful to be a part of that event and for all her work. Being exposed to various community service events and organizations, and learning more about how they work and who they help has been eye-opening this year. Upcoming Events: We’re having a great time so far this year--meeting neat people, and learning too! Thanks again for the support, ideas, and encouragement we receive from the county and state alliances.
2009-2010 MSA Board
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