Eastern Virginia Medical School

Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS) stands as a testament to community vision and medical innovation, renowned for its groundbreaking work and profound regional impact. Since its founding, EVMS has been at the forefront of medical advancements, notably as the first institution in the U.S. to achieve a viable fetus through in vitro fertilization. The school continues to excel in reproductive medicine, advanced simulation and standardized-patient education, and critical research areas including pediatrics, geriatrics, diabetes, cancer, and neuroscience. Students benefit from extensive clinical training coordinated through prominent regional medical centers like Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, a Level 1 trauma facility, and the Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters, the state's only stand-alone children's hospital.

Born from grassroots efforts in the 1960s to address a severe physician shortage in the Hampton Roads area, EVMS was established in 1973 with immense local support. Over $17 million was raised from community and business leaders before its first class matriculated, embodying its motto: "Community focus. World impact." This deep-seated commitment to serving the region has shaped its identity, ensuring that its educational and research endeavors directly contribute to local health and well-being.

The EVMS experience is dynamic and impactful. With a vibrant student body of 1,261, the institution plays a critical role in shaping the healthcare landscape of Virginia, with one in four local physicians having a connection to the university. In a significant evolution, EVMS officially merged with Old Dominion University on July 1, 2024, becoming the medical school component of a larger, comprehensive university. This merger promises to unlock new collaborative opportunities and further enhance the academic and research prowess of EVMS, preparing future healthcare leaders for a world of evolving medical challenges.