The Renaissance School of Medicine (RSOM) at Stony Brook University held its 51st Convocation on May 19, marking the graduation of 133 students who received their Doctor of Medicine (MD) degrees. These new physicians are set to begin their residency training in early July.
The graduates will practice medicine across more than 20 specialties, including primary care, anesthesiology, emergency medicine, neurology, radiology, surgery, and psychiatry. They will join leading hospitals and academic medical centers in New York and 17 other states. Notably, 55 percent of the graduates will remain in New York, with nearly 15 percent continuing at Stony Brook Medicine.
The demand for physicians continues to grow both nationally and globally due to aging populations and a need for specialists. Advances in technology such as AI and telemedicine offer new opportunities for these doctors entering the workforce.
Peter Igarashi, MD, Knapp Dean of RSOM, praised the graduates for their dedication and achievements. “Over the last four plus years at the Renaissance School of Medicine, you have received the best medical education that New York State has to offer,” said Igarashi. “The combination of training in the science and art of medicine and the social determinants of health has prepared you to be doctors well-equipped for whoever walks in the door.”
Susan M. Wolf, JD—a professor at the University of Minnesota known for her work in medicine, law, and ethics—delivered the convocation address. She urged graduates to uphold high ethical standards and act as patient advocates amid rapid advancements in medicine.
Since its first graduating class in 1974, RSOM has awarded over 5,000 MD degrees along with numerous PhD and master's degrees.