BIDDEFORD, Maine — Sarah Belden, D.O., daughter of Dr. (Jack) Maurice and Cynthia Belden of Presque Isle, a member of the graduating Class of 2014 at the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine, was awarded the degree of Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine at commencement ceremonies held at the Cumberland County Civic Center on May 17.
UNE graduated 116 physicians at the ceremony, including 25 Master of Medical Education Leadership degree recipients.
Later that day, the physicians and MMEL graduates received their hoods — the most symbolic part of the academic regalia — at a separate hooding ceremony at Merrill Auditorium.
Belden was also inducted into the College of Osteopathic Medicine’s chapter of the Gold Humanism Honor Society. COM was recently selected by the Arnold P. Gold Foundation to establish a Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) chapter, and the inaugural induction ceremony was held also held on May 17.
The GHHS honors medical students, residents, role-model physician teachers and other exemplars recognized for “demonstrated excellence in clinical care, leadership, compassion and dedication to service.”
Organized to elevate the values of humanism and professionalism within the field of medicine, the Society is fast becoming integrated into the medical educational environment. It is a steadfast advocate for humanism through activities on campus and involvement with its membership.
Creating a chapter of the GHHS signifies to students and faculty that an institution places high value on the interpersonal skills and attitudes that are essential for excellent patient care. Eleven student doctors and one neuromuscular medicine resident who were inducted into the honor society.
Dr. Sarah Belden will be interning at University Hospitals/Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, prior to a residency in dermatology.
