Clay's Purpose — November 2022

The holiday season is upon us. This year, remember to focus on the THANKS part of Thanksgiving.

We should take time to reflect on all that we are thankful for – our health, family, friends, education and opportunities to serve others.

I am thankful for each one of you and all that you do for our students, our patients and our university community. Let us continue to be mindful of those who may need a helping hand or some extra support, especially during this time of year. 

Our Health Sciences food pantry – The Rack II @ HSC – provides non-perishable food items to all WVU Health Sciences students and employees and WVU Medicine employees who are in need of assistance. The Rack II also accepts product and financial donations.

This can be a difficult and emotionally exhausting time of year for some of us. Remember to mind your well-being and mental health. The Carruth Center provides self-care tips and online resources, and WELLWVU offers hands-on programs and resources to help reduce stress. BeWell offers confidential, compassionate and convenient mental health services to students on the Health Sciences Campus, and the WVU Medicine Wellness Center provides resources and assistance programs for employees and their families.

As we look forward to gatherings with family and friends, I encourage you to stay optimally protected against COVID-19 by getting the primary vaccine series or updated booster – if not for yourself, then for your loved ones. In addition to the COVID-19 vaccine, it is important to get the flu shot as many communities face a possible tridemic. Health Sciences students, faculty and staff can receive a flu shot from a primary care provider, WVU Medicine Urgent Care clinics and WVU Student Health. First, second and booster doses of Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are available at these clinics, and individuals can get their flu shot at the same time as their COVID-19 vaccine.

Vaccines are a great tool to prevent illness, and I am thankful that we have access to these lifesaving treatments that keep us safe and healthy. 

Stay well.

Clay Marsh, M.D.
Chancellor and Executive Dean
WVU Health Sciences

Photo: I’m thankful for opportunities to connect with our students, like this event hosted by the WVU Alumni Association during Homecoming.