A Legacy of Learning: BUCOM Dedicates the Dorothy Smith Thompson Library

A woman stands in front of a glass wall bearing the inscription 'The Dorothy Smith Thompson Library.' The space behind the glass appears to be a modern, well-lit library or study area with comfortable seating and workstations. Blue curtains are drawn back on either side of the glass. The woman is wearing glasses and a dark outfit, smiling slightly at the camera.

At Baptist University College of Osteopathic Medicine (BUCOM), the commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and compassion is at the heart of everything we do. That mission takes a powerful step forward with the dedication of the Dorothy Smith Thompson Library, a space designed not only for study and research, but for cultivating the future of health care.

Recently, we spoke with Sherita Martin, Director of Development for the Baptist Memorial Health Care Foundation, and Dr. Peter Bell, Dean of BUCOM, to reflect on the meaning behind the new library and the impact it will have on the students and faculty it serves.

A Gift of Knowledge, A Family’s Tribute

The BUCOM Library was made possible in part thanks to the generosity of Mr. Chris Anderson, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Baptist Memorial Health Care Corporation, and his family. Their contribution honors the life and legacy of Mr. Anderson’s mother, Dorothy Smith Thompson, a woman whose love for reading, as a librarian, and belief in the transformative power of education touched many lives.

“She truly believed that just one book could change someone’s life for the better,” said Sherita Martin. “Her passion led her to dedicate her career to sharing the incredible power of books with others. She understood how crucial libraries and librarians are in providing access to information and education.”

The Foundation’s support of the BUCOM Library reflects its broader mission of shaping future health care professionals and enhancing patient care. “This space plays an essential role in that mission,” Martin added. 

A Modern Hub for Medical Discovery

The library isn’t just a tribute to the past; it’s a forward-thinking center designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s medical students. According to Dr. Peter Bell, the BUCOM Library is a place where tradition meets innovation.

“The library is a research center designed to promote learning and a great place to study,” said Dr. Bell. “We are all electronic—no more physical books. The medical librarian helps facilitate information searches, supports the discovery of new material, and guides students in formulating their next research questions.”

In addition to its digital resources, the space itself is thoughtfully designed to encourage productivity and collaboration. “Our library is ultra-modern,” Bell continued. “It features a variety of furniture in a light, airy environment that supports focused study, teamwork, and reflection.”

A Future Built on Legacy

As the BUCOM community gathers to officially dedicate this inspiring space, we are reminded of the powerful connection between the generosity of our supporters and the success of our students. The Dorothy Smith Thompson Library is more than just a study space, it is a legacy, a learning hub, and a launchpad for the health care leaders of tomorrow.

We are proud to honor this moment and even prouder of the future it represents.

  • A woman smiles while standing next to a wall-mounted plaque titled "The Dorothy Smith Thompson Library." The plaque explains the dedication in her honor, highlighting her love for reading and contributions to education.
  • A group of nine individuals stands in front of a glass wall labeled "The Dorothy Smith Thompson Library." They are smiling and dressed in professional attire, gathered for what appears to be a library dedication ceremony. Blue curtains are pulled back on either side of the glass.
  • A man unveils a curtain while holding hands with a woman in a bright pink dress during the dedication of "The Dorothy Smith Thompson Library." Two other individuals watch as the curtain is pulled back, revealing the name etched on the glass.
  • Four people pose in front of the glass wall of "The Dorothy Smith Thompson Library." The group includes a woman in a pink dress, a man in a suit and blue tie, a woman in black with glasses, and another man in a striped shirt and khakis.
  • A man in a suit speaks while holding a microphone, with others standing behind him in a modern, well-lit room. He appears to be giving remarks during a formal event or ceremony.
  • A man with a beard and red tie speaks into a microphone, holding his glasses in one hand. He stands in front of a seated audience in a professional setting with others behind him listening attentively.
  • A man in a dark suit and blue tie speaks to an audience, holding a notecard and a lapel microphone. Several individuals in suits stand behind him in support.

BUCOM celebrates the dedication of the Dorothy Smith Thompson Library, a modern, all-digital space made possible by a donation from Chris Anderson and family, honoring his mother’s love for learning.

God's Blessings

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever admirable –if anything is excellent or praiseworthy think about such things.

Philippians 4:8