Dr. Paul Farmer’s Legacy
October 26, 1959 - February 21, 2022.
Dr. Paul Farmer
The Vassar Haiti Project is saddened and shocked to hear about the passing of Dr. Paul Farmer. Dr Farmer revolutionized the field of global health, and was a champion for human rights. He was an ardent supporter of and mentor to VHP, particularly in regards to the Chermaitre-Fiervil clinic. His work in Haiti showed us how a small organization could grow and turn our goal of improving healthcare into a sustainable reality.
Dr. Farmer was an esteemed honoree at our Art & Soul Gala in 2018, as well as a participant in numerous events. He generously created space to meet with our students on several occasions, where he shared with us his love for teaching and vision for a more just world. He inspired us to join the ranks of global health advocates and to continue fighting for equity and justice, with ideals of love and togetherness at our core.
Dr. Farmer receiving an award at the Vassar Haiti Project’s 2018 Art & Soul Gala
We remember a moment when a team of VHP students went to Boston for a private meeting with Dr. Farmer. Not knowing quite what to expect, we were surprised that during the meeting he referred to each and every one of us by name. He even started speaking in fluent creole to Clariola Etienne '18 when he noticed that she was Haitian! The fact that he took the time to memorize all of our names and to get to know us speaks volumes about how he stands to create a world where every single person knows that they matter. During our time with him, we asked many questions, one of which was around the subject of growing our organization. His answer was unexpected: "don't romanticize big" he said. "What is important in an organization like VHP is your consistency and sustainability in the region. You're there for the long haul which is far more important, making a substantial difference to the region you support." Dr. Farmer’s words continue to be a guiding light for us, in all that we do as an organization.
As he writes, “with rare exceptions, all of your most important achievements on this planet will come from working with others — or, in a word, partnership.” Dr. Farmer, we've taken your words to heart. We thank you for your partnership, and for all that you taught the Vassar Haiti Project about global citizenship and our power to make a difference. You are a hero to us and the world grieves your loss.
We send our sincerest condolences to all his family, friends, and colleagues around the globe.
A team of VHP students meeting with Dr. Farmer in 2015