Dr. Francis Collins stepped down this month as Director of the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) after 12 years at the helm – the longest-serving NIH Director. The agency, with broad responsibilities for biomedical and public health research, is respected throughout the world. A virtual Farewell Celebration was held in his honor – an interview of Dr. Collins by John Burklow, Acting Chief of Staff, and many expressions of appreciation from leading figures in government, science, medicine, and the arts! The celebration was both moving and educational.

World Prematurity Day, observed on November 17, is a day to raise awareness of the challenges and burden of preterm birth globally. Preterm birth is a leading cause of death in the newborn period. Moreover, for preterm babies who survive, there may be physical and neurodevelopmental disabilities that create significant burdens for the child, for families, and for health systems. Improving health outcomes for the smallest and most fragile among us is a goal that unites people throughout the world, regardless of geographical, political, or societal borders.

Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH) celebrated the 100th anniversary of its founding on September 16, a significant milestone that was recognized at a ceremony attended by senior government officials, PUMCH leaders, senior faculty members, and distinguished guests. Speakers at the ceremony praised PUMCH’s contributions to the development of modern medicine in China, and leaders of medical institutions in other countries and regions including China Medical Board (CMB) President Barbara J. Stoll shared congratulatory messages that highlighted PUMCH’s role in international collaboration.

China Medical Board and Peking Union Medical College Hospital signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on June 7/8, extending their collaboration in areas related to academic enhancement including faculty development, support for residency training, and further development of the China Nursing Consortium of Elite Teaching Hospitals.