The Driving Spirit Behind Our Work

In her final commencement speech, Ida Scudder entrusted CMC – her life’s work – to all of us:

“We look forward to an even greater future…We need those who can, to take up the torch of life and carry on and make Vellore Christian Medical College one of the outstanding medical institutions in the world.”

Humanity in Action

Beyond facts and figures, what does it mean to be part of CMC? How does Dr. Ida Scudder’s passion continue to burn brightly, even today?  Why are we committed to this work? It is our determined spirit – our love and humanity, inspired to action.

We imagine what Ida Scudder might say today…

• Expect scientific rigor and academic excellence – but strive for something greater. For creativity that allows for resourcefulness and out-of-the-box problem solving.
• Strive to see beyond ethnic and religious differences, beyond prescribed protocols. To see and care for people.
• See the larger meaning in little things. To serve as best you can, tirelessly with dedication, grace and humility. To believe in the healing power of faith and the human spirit.
• Work to find a way to get every person the care they need, regardless of income. Take less. Give more.
• Employ curiosity, intelligence and precision in service of research. Employ research in service of healing.
• Try to see the big, imperfectly perfect, interconnected picture.
• Go where the need is, into slums and isolated villages. Address the root issues and build the foundation for a healthy life.
• Embody these beliefs. Teach them. Share them. Share our models, our discoveries, our data. Take what works to other developing countries and centers of excellence around the world.
• Remember to embrace the very human side of medicine. Beyond treatment, education and research, we must strive for something greater.
• This is humanity in action.