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We are the Rams
Phil the Ram is more than a mascot. He is a thread in the rich tapestry of our university’s history, weaving together the legacies of Philadelphia Textile School, Philadelphia University, and Thomas Jefferson University. As Jefferson celebrates its bicentennial, we reflect on how we became the Rams.
David E. Ronner
Jefferson’s legacy in textile education started in 1884 with the Philadelphia Textile School, now evolved into a leading Engineering Program. David E. Ronner ’77 exemplifies this legacy, leveraging his education to lead ICF Mercantile and foster a team of Jefferson graduates driving innovation in technical textiles.
Addressing the Substance Abuse Crisis in Philadelphia
Philadelphia faces an escalating addiction crisis with fragmented healthcare and the emergence of substances like xylazine, highlighting the need for integrated solutions such as Jefferson Health's JAMS and Bridge Program to support recovery and address systemic barriers.
Alum Promotes Compassion and Service to Humanity
Bryant Greene, MBA ’96, says he lives his life based on the advice of his great-grandmother: “You never know who’s going to give you your last cup of water, so you’ve got to be kind.”
More From This Issue
Harnessing the Qualities That Create Healthcare Heroes
Jefferson College of Nursing supports former military personnel through initiatives like the Service Scholars Program, bridging financial gaps and providing crucial support for their transition into civilian life.
SKMC Med Talk Considering Additional Degrees
Sidney Kimmel Medical College students and young alumni were invited to join an interactive webinar to explore diverse career paths through additional degrees alongside distinguished alumni and faculty.
Our History
Jefferson’s 200-year history includes intrigue and innovation that started with $550 and a bold idea that would forever change medical education around the world. From medical pioneers and many medical firsts to productive mergers, Jefferson Medical College — now Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University — continues to build on that history, boldly shaping the future of medicine and education.
Alumni Impact
Endowed positions are among the highest honors faculty receive, an acknowledgement of the esteem in which the institution and academic peers hold them. Jefferson currently has 119 endowed positions. An investiture ceremony officially bestows the named position, honoring the recipient as well as the benefactor whose generosity makes the appointment possible.
Jefferson Health’s Honickman Center
On March 13, 2024, after four years of construction, the Honickman Center, Jefferson Health’s new flagship medical facility in Center City Philadelphia, made its debut.
From the Nexus
National Cancer Institute Designates Jefferson's Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center as a Comprehensive Cancer Center
Jefferson announced that its Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center (SKCC) has earned a National Cancer Institute (NCI) "Comprehensive" Cancer Center designation, the highest recognition awarded by the NCI.
Celebrating the Class of 2024
With NASA Internship, Nutrition Student Helps to Fuel Astronauts
How a Textile Product Science Alumna Stepped Into a Career in Nike Footwear
Ram Roundup
Tom Shirley Steps Down As Athletic Director
Tom Shirley, the assistant vice president for athletics at Thomas Jefferson University, will be stepping down as athletic director in August. However, he will remain on as head coach of the Rams women’s basketball team.
Class Notes
William Jackson, Chemistry ’72
William Jackson began his career working for major chemical manufacturers in the Philadelphia area. He went on to join the Philadelphia Gas Works chemical laboratory to achieve a management position. He was gifted with two daughters and five grandchildren.
Christy Brady, Accounting ’94
Christy Brady recently ran for office and was elected as Philadelphia city controller. “It's an incredible honor to serve our community in this capacity, and I'm eager to make a positive impact in our great city.”
Michaela Day, Fashion Design ’22
Michaela Day is an associate designer at Fownes Brothers, running an independent project for a new brand Fownes acquired that will launch in 2025. She took her first work trip to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and has already seen some of her work selling at Anthropologie, Teva, and 2 Blind Brothers. “I love what I do and the people I work with. I look forward to seeing where else I will find myself.”
Share your story!
Where have you been? What have you been up to? Tell us what’s new—jobs, weddings, moves across the country. Share your story with fellow alumni by submitting a Class Note for an upcoming issue of Jefferson Innovator.
Our Leadership
Susan C. Aldridge, PHD Appointed President of Thomas Jefferson University
Dr. Susan Aldridge's leadership emphasizes student engagement, industry relevance, and global perspectives, underscoring Jefferson's commitment to educational excellence.