Sixteen years ago this week, I began my tenure as President of Xavier University Aruba. I want to extend my gratitude to Chairman Casey, Dr. Bhat, the Board of Trustees, Dr. Dubey, Dr. Pestell, faculty, administration, staff, affiliated hospital administration and program directors, partners, the government of Aruba, and, notably, the alumni and students of Xavier University School of Medicine.

Reflecting on the past 16 years, I am humbled by our community’s accomplishments and proud of the progress we have made together. Our graduates have achieved remarkable success, with this year marking the highest cumulative residency match rate in school history. Additionally, our students consistently demonstrate high passing rates on USMLE Step 1 and Step 2. Our numerous accreditations, approvals, and recognitions underscore our commitment to maintaining the highest academic standards in medical education.

We have also worked diligently to ensure that a quality education remains as accessible as possible. We continue to offer various scholarships, including the Congressman John Lewis Memorial Scholarship, aimed at promoting diversity in the medical field by supporting underrepresented minority students. Additionally, we have introduced initiatives like the Shaping Xavier Scholarship, providing full-tuition support to deserving students.

During my tenure, we have introduced innovative programs and initiatives, strengthening our position as a leader in allied health sciences education. Just last year, we inaugurated a new School of Veterinary Medicine, and later this year, we will celebrate the graduation of our first School of Nursing class. We have expanded our affiliations with hospitals and colleges, providing enhanced opportunities for our students. Looking ahead, we anticipate announcing further expansions to our program offerings.

In recent years, we have embarked on a campus transformation project in Aruba that will greatly enhance the student experience. Phase 2, our new academic campus, is set to open before the year’s end, providing a state-of-the-art learning environment for our students.

I must acknowledge the tireless efforts of our faculty, staff, students, alumni, and partners who have worked alongside me to achieve these milestones. Your dedication and expertise have been essential in advancing our mission, and I am grateful for your steadfast support. Together, we eagerly anticipate continuing to provide students with opportunities to pursue their dreams of becoming doctors and further elevating Xavier University Aruba.

Warm Regards,

Ravi Bhooplapur
President, Xavier University Aruba