‘Life in Discovery’

Finch University/The Chicago Medical School had a new leader with a big vision. He saw that genomic research was the future of medicine.

More than that, he understood that because medicine was changing, the way it was taught needed to change too. So, he sought to implement a new kind of curriculum where students would learn side by side, developing an integrated team mindset and approach to medical care. But first, the University needed a new name. One that would reflect its new vision and transform the institution. In addition to its focus on genomic medicine, the University had a history of helping the “underdog” – giving students a chance when they needed on – creating a unique spirit of inclusion that permeated the campus.

When we happened upon a book celebrating the 50th anniversary of the discovery of DNA, we couldn’t believe our eyes. There she was. The woman, who in 1952, took Photo 51, the image that illuminated the structure of DNA – one of the most significant scientific discoveries of our time. The woman, who in the face of discrimination from her colleagues, excelled at her work – yet was never given the credit she deserved. A woman named Rosalind Franklin. We knew instantly that she would be the new namesake for the university and truly a life in discovery.