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2020 Archie Griffin Award

John R. Raymond Sr

John R. Raymond Sr., ’78, ’82 MD

An Ohio State education and experiences influence a career path that serves the greater good.

By Aaron Green

Teamwork, selflessness and integrity have been driving forces behind the professional accomplishments of John R. Raymond Sr., ’78, ’82 MD. As president and CEO of the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) since 2010, Raymond has helped provide health equity for Milwaukee residents. He aims to make Milwaukee one of the nation’s healthiest and safest cities through a partnership with the Greater Milwaukee Foundation.

“His passion and commitment were instrumental in forming this joint vision,” says Chris Miskel, a member of the MCW Board of Trustees. “He leads both MCW and Milwaukee with a strong collaborative spirit, driven to engage with regional business leaders and community organizations to reduce health disparities in our city and state.”

Raymond also has been an important leader in helping Wisconsin weather COVID-19 by separating fact from opinion. He credits his alma mater for laying the foundation for his professional success.

Question
Why did you choose Ohio State?

Answer

When I was young, maybe 8 years old, I used to listen to Ohio State football games every Saturday on a little transistor radio. I loved Woody [Hayes]. I had opportunities to go other places for college and medical school, but Ohio State was really my first love.

Question
How did your Ohio State experience contribute to the person you are today?

Answer

I learned the importance of a strong work ethic. I learned about trust and how important it is to practice with integrity. I learned great communication skills and the value of teamwork. Those are all good Midwestern values, and I think Ohio State really exemplifies the best of what we have in this country.

Question
In what way is this particular award most meaningful to you?

Answer

Archie Griffin is one of my heroes. It’s just such an honor to be able to carry an award in his name. Archie let his actions speak louder than his words. It’s these Midwestern values of giving back in a selfless way, understanding that no individual can stand on their own and that you need to collaborate. Archie, who obviously was the consummate team player, was a mentor by example for me.

This recognition means so much to me because Ohio State was instrumental in helping me to become the person that I am. I just want everyone to understand what an amazing institution Ohio State is and what a treasure it is to our country.

Question
What do you consider your greatest achievement?

Answer

Right now, what gives me the greatest satisfaction is being the physician in Wisconsin who stood up to bring facts to the general public about this terrible COVID-19 pandemic we’re facing. The sensationalized coverage of new COVID-19 scientific studies without a careful interpretation of the pros and cons of the data has done us a great disservice. One of the things I’ve done, and our institution is trying to do for Wisconsin, is to be that source of truth about COVID-19. To curate the information, to analyze the studies, to say what’s good and what’s bad about the studies, and what work needs to be done before we can make definitive conclusions.

Question
As a doctor, what keeps you up at night?

Answer

It is frustrating that we know based on science that there are a few simple things we can do as individuals and as communities to slow the spread of COVID-19. Unfortunately, there is a small minority of people who just refuse to cooperate, either for political purposes or because they just don’t believe the science.