This year, Monroe turns 150 years old. I've been a member of the community for seven of those years, and the richness, heritage and authenticity of the community have been evident to me since my first day here.
All it takes is a single hour on Monroe's square, seeing the sights, visiting the businesses and talking with the people. After that hour, any newcomer will realize this city is unlike any other, full of down-to-earth wisdom, an indomitable work ethic, historic pride and an unwavering sense of community.
In my position at Monroe Clinic, I have a special appreciation for the immediate and lasting appeal Monroe offers those who come into its city limits. Our organization couldn't thrive if it were not based in and supported by this remarkable community.
When physicians make the decision to come to Monroe Clinic to practice medicine, they are often making the decision to move their families to Monroe, send their children to Monroe schools and get involved in Monroe's programs, initiatives and community efforts.The distinctive appeal of this area and its people offers Monroe Clinic an advantage that many healthcare systems across the nation cannot claim.
The appeal of Monroe and its ideals is not a recent development. These ideals run deep in the community's history. One such example is that of Monroe Clinic's beginnings.
In 1939, five physicians came together to provide a diverse range of primary and specialty medical care on the second floor of the General Casualty insurance building in Monroe. Their efforts were not motivated by pretense or a need for recognition. Their inspiration was born from a heart-felt desire to provide the community with quality health care. Equally inspired was the overture these physicians made to the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes, who answered the call to build a much-needed hospital in Monroe.
Dr. Nathan Bear, the last surviving member of Monroe Clinic's five founding physicians, discussed the founders' intentions at the organization's 40th anniversary. Dr. Bear explained, "We had no idea of the tremendous growth that would follow. Our goal was merely to serve the area with better medicine."
His words have continued relevance today, as Monroe Clinic looks forward to major facility renovations, service growth and new opportunities to build a healthier tomorrow. None of it would be possible if it weren't for the fearless dedication of the Clinic's founders, the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes, and the hundreds of caregivers who have since built upon their vision.
Monroe Clinic's story is just one piece of our community's vibrant yet unfinished tapestry. As Monroe celebrates its 150th year, we do so knowing that our history isn't simply a source of reminiscence and tales of days gone by. Our history is alive, and our story is still being written. I'm certainly looking forward to the next chapter.
All it takes is a single hour on Monroe's square, seeing the sights, visiting the businesses and talking with the people. After that hour, any newcomer will realize this city is unlike any other, full of down-to-earth wisdom, an indomitable work ethic, historic pride and an unwavering sense of community.
In my position at Monroe Clinic, I have a special appreciation for the immediate and lasting appeal Monroe offers those who come into its city limits. Our organization couldn't thrive if it were not based in and supported by this remarkable community.
When physicians make the decision to come to Monroe Clinic to practice medicine, they are often making the decision to move their families to Monroe, send their children to Monroe schools and get involved in Monroe's programs, initiatives and community efforts.The distinctive appeal of this area and its people offers Monroe Clinic an advantage that many healthcare systems across the nation cannot claim.
The appeal of Monroe and its ideals is not a recent development. These ideals run deep in the community's history. One such example is that of Monroe Clinic's beginnings.
In 1939, five physicians came together to provide a diverse range of primary and specialty medical care on the second floor of the General Casualty insurance building in Monroe. Their efforts were not motivated by pretense or a need for recognition. Their inspiration was born from a heart-felt desire to provide the community with quality health care. Equally inspired was the overture these physicians made to the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes, who answered the call to build a much-needed hospital in Monroe.
Dr. Nathan Bear, the last surviving member of Monroe Clinic's five founding physicians, discussed the founders' intentions at the organization's 40th anniversary. Dr. Bear explained, "We had no idea of the tremendous growth that would follow. Our goal was merely to serve the area with better medicine."
His words have continued relevance today, as Monroe Clinic looks forward to major facility renovations, service growth and new opportunities to build a healthier tomorrow. None of it would be possible if it weren't for the fearless dedication of the Clinic's founders, the Congregation of Sisters of St. Agnes, and the hundreds of caregivers who have since built upon their vision.
Monroe Clinic's story is just one piece of our community's vibrant yet unfinished tapestry. As Monroe celebrates its 150th year, we do so knowing that our history isn't simply a source of reminiscence and tales of days gone by. Our history is alive, and our story is still being written. I'm certainly looking forward to the next chapter.
