The Gold Foundation developed the Humanism and Ethics Night program to provide students with a forum in which to discuss ethical issues, and how these issues intersect with humanism and compassionate healthcare. Humanism and Ethics Night also creates an opportunity to establish stronger relationships with faculty role models.

At Humanism and Ethics Night, students hear a thought-provoking and meaningful presentation by a faculty member or a guest speaker, followed by a dinner with faculty during which the students can discuss and question ethical issues. One successful model has been to have table topics (such as end of life issues, stem cell research, genetics etc.) hosted by recruited faculty members. The students are given the opportunity to spend time with empathetic doctors who are leaders in the medical community - doctors they might feel comfortable approaching to discuss troublesome ethical issues or difficult situations which challenge and confound students during their clinical rotations. 

Planning schedules for Humanism and Ethics Night vary widely from school to school. Below you will find the Gold Foundation's planning suggestions which can be tailored to suit each school's individual needs:

• Select a date that will not conflict with exams or other school events, and which is convenient for important guests (such as deans and sponsors).
• Select keynote speaker, discuss length and focus of talk
• Set a venue for the event; arrange for any needed audio-visual equipment.
• Invite all students and selected faculty at least one month prior to event. Students should invite faculty members that they are particular interested in getting to know (should try to have 1 faculty member for every 8-10 students).
• Advertise the event through emails, flyers and posters (send out several reminder emails as the date draws near, non-bonding rsvp's will allow the food committee to better estimate needs).
• Write and circulate a press release via the External Relations office.
• If keynote speaker is renowned, consider inviting the entire community to the presentation.
• Gather information about keynote speaker and sponsors for introductions.
• Confirm vehicle, food and beverage, and all arrangement day before event
• Secure parking arrangements for invited guests, as appropriate.  

How to Apply for a Humanism and Ethics Night Grant:

The Gold Foundation provides one-time grant funding for schools wishing to establish a Humanism and Ethics Night. Proposals should include the school's plan for the Humanism and Ethics Night, a faculty advisor, and a budget, which may include the following items:

• Honorarium for visiting lecturers, up to $500, and travel costs
• Printing of invitations, flyers and programs
• Catering and rentals for the dinner

Send proposals to: proposals@gold-foundation.org