SOM Big Brothers/Big Sisters Program Receives Governor’s Award

School of Medicine students and BBBS have had an organized relationship since 2003 when Richard Hoppmann, M.D., now interim dean, established the program as one part of the school’s community support initiatives. More than 25 children have benefited from this partnership over the last three and a half years.

"Based on our outcome evaluations in 2006, more than 80 percent of our ‘Littles’ improved in the area of ‘confidence,' and more than 70 percent improved in ‘caring’ indicators, which includes showing trust toward their 'Bigs,' respecting other cultures, and relationships with family, peers and other adults," Tovey said.

The program is designed so that School of Medicine students not only serve as mentors and role models but also learn what it is like to grow up in environments very different from what most of them experienced as young people.

A special aspect of the medical school program is that two students pair up with one Little Brother or Sister. "This allows the future doctors some flexibility in their volunteering and affords the Little an opportunity to have twice the fun, twice the exposure, and two Bigs instead of just one. Most of the matches last at least two years. The students and the Littles are forever changed by the experience," Tovey said.

"The School of Medicine partnership with Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Greater Columbia has been great for our students and their Littles. Our students have gained perspective on working with youth who need an adult friend. Many have commented on how much they have learned from their Littles. In turn, the Littles have had an opportunity to develop a relationship with an adult who is committed to a trusting friendship and someone who can serve as a very positive role model," Hoppmann said.

The School of Medicine student group received the award for demonstrating extraordinary initiative and commitment in sponsoring a program that benefited community and individual needs. Craig Sproul, president of the SC Association for Volunteer Administration and a representative from Governor Mark Sanford’s office, presented the award to the students during a ceremony at the Statehouse on Friday, April 20, 2007.