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BIDDEFORD, Maine

UNE College of Medicine Dean Marc Hahn shares vision in University address

University of New England dean of the College of Osteopathic Medicine and vice president for health affairs, Marc B. Hahn, DO, presented his "Dean's Address and Vision" to more than 100 UNE faculty, students and invited guests at UNE's Alfond Center for Health Sciences on Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2010.

Citing Dr. Hahn's creative vision and leadership, UNE President Danielle Ripich, Ph,D., introduced the dean, stating, "I cannot think of a better person to lead our college." 

Hahn served as the senior vice president for health affairs for the University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth and the dean of the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine prior to joining UNE in September. 

Hahn discussed the vital role that Maine's only medical school plays in the region, from its establishment 30 years ago with just 32 students to its status as the number-one provider of physicians for the state today.  

He stated, "The quality of health care in the state and the region is being shaped by the strategic planning at UNE."

He shared bold one-year and five-year plans for the college that call for expanded student enrollment, a $1 million scholarship program, strengthened investment in faculty, staff and research, and establishment of another UNE College of Osteopathic Medicine in either the U.S. or abroad.  "We have a model that works, and we have an obligation to grow - logical growth that makes sense for the university, the community, and the states we serve."

Hahn discussed changes to the curriculum that include expanding use of the latest technology, such as hands-on simulation, and interdisciplinary training among all UNE health care professionals.

He also stressed the benefits of the uniqueness of the osteopathic approach and the advantages of being a small university with a world-class faculty who can work together and share knowledge among disciplines.

As Maine's only medical school, and the largest provider of primary care physicians for the state, Hahn stated, "...we fill a very important void in this region and the state...to get to the next level, we need the commitment of everyone in this room, and in our community."

About the University of New England

The University of New England is Maine’s largest independent university, with two beautiful coastal campuses in Maine, a one-of-a-kind study abroad campus in Tangier, Morocco, and an array of flexible, accredited online degrees. In an uncommonly welcoming and supportive community, we offer hands-on learning, empowering students to make a positive impact in a world full of challenges. The state’s top provider of health professionals, we are home to Maine’s only medical college, Maine’s only dental college, a variety of other interprofessionally aligned health care degree programs, as well as nationally recognized programs for marine science degrees, natural and social sciences degrees, arts and humanities degrees, and business degrees.