FIU President Modesto A. Maidique, says, "This School of Medicine will impact every member of this community by addressing a growing doctor shortage and by becoming an economic engine and a beacon of opportunity for South Florida."
The school will open in 2008, and graduate its first class by 2012.
Board of Governors member Charles Edwards, says, "We have an opportunity to take the lead, not only in the country but in the world... [This] is a tremendous opportunity that will benefit the quality of life for the citizens of the state."
According to FIU, "the School of Medicine will work in affiliation with community hospitals: Mercy Hospital, Miami Children's Hospital, and Mount Sinai Medical Center, which will help educate medical students and provide graduates with residency opportunities."
Jeffrey Horstmyer, president of the medical staff at Mercy Hospital, says, "This Medical School will help hospitals such as ours maximize our effectiveness and resources. This is a win for all of us, but the biggest winner here is our community."
