UMSOM Class of 2025 Host Annual Auction in Support of Victims of Domestic Abuse & Trauma

Part of Proceeds from Student Auction to Benefit House of Ruth Maryland

The University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) Class of 2025 Student Government has organized this year’s Annual Second-Year Medical Student Auction, a tradition that began 16 years ago.

Funds raised will benefit class activities, with a portion of the proceeds supporting House of Ruth Maryland, a local organization that is committed to providing services and shelter to victims of intimate partner violence, as well as outreach, education, and advocacy for this cause.

This year’s auction will be fully virtual with online bidding opening on November 10^th at 12:01 am and running through December 1^st at 11:55 pm. Parents, students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to participate.

Based on a class poll, House of Ruth Maryland was the charity of choice for this year’s auction. “Violence against women, both domestically and internationally, has increased significantly in recent years,” said Lindsay Kohan, Class of 2025 Secretary and MD candidate at UMSOM. “Through supporting this organization, we are showing our solidarity in the mission to help end this global public health issue.”

With the start of online bidding just days away, Kohan and her fellow second-year medical students are encouraging family, friends, faculty, and local businesses to donate items or experiences to add to the variety that will be featured in the virtual auction. The Class of 2025 Student Government’s online silent auction bidding website will include a range of items and experiences, such as gift cards, a handmade quilted wall tapestry, and over 10 experiences worth a total of more than $2,000.

Most of the donations so far have come directly from faculty; however, Kohan and her fellow classmates welcome external support from local establishments in the community. “Any time we can get out of our bubble of being in medical school to interact with and gain support from the community members who surround us is a privilege,” said Kohan.

Kerri Thom, MD, MS, Associate Dean for Student Affairs, and Professor of Epidemiology & Public Health, believes that the annual auction clearly supports the school’s overall commitment to community engagement. “The auction is an important tradition at UMSOM, which supports the School’s commitment to being engaged in the community,” said Dr. Thom. “It is an opportunity for faculty, students, and their families to unite in support of a noble cause and hopefully have a little fun in the process.”

To donate an item to be featured in the Class of 2025 Annual Second-Year Medical Student Auction, please contact the Class of 2025 Student Government at umsom2025stugov@gmail.com. Monetary donations can also be made online at http://www.medschool.umaryland.edu/StudentAuction.