Why donate to the Galens Smoker?

Are you unable to come to the show but still want to support the Smoker? Have you purchased every possible Patron and General Admissions Ticket for you and your extended family, but you still feel like that won't bring back your youth? Or have you been illegally running a racket of cocaine-stuffed Cabbage Patch Kids, and you need to launder money fast before the IRS gets suspicious? Consider donating to the Galens Smoker today!

Galens Medical Society: A Brief, Illustrious History

Galens Medical Society was founded in 1914 by a group of medical students and faculty. The Society served as an honorary society bridging the gap between students and faculty. Early accomplishments included the establishment of an honor system, the procurement of student lockers to prevent theft, and the formation of a student lounge.

Over the years, Galens has changed in scope and mission. In 1937 Galens members began formally recognizing faculty members who display commitment to and excellence in medical student teaching. That year Dr. F. C. Hodges was named the first "Knight of the Silver Shovel." 

Today Galens members continue to recognize excellent medical school faculty and residents through the Silver Shovel, Elizabeth Crosby, and Bronze Beeper awards. And Galens is best known for its annual winter fundraising for children's charities in Michigan through Galens Tag Days. 

The Galens Smoker: A Briefer, More Illustrious History

Galens members believed in socializing outside of the classroom. In 1918 they held the first "All-Medic Smoker" in the Michigan Union. The performance featured a series of skits followed by refreshments and talks by professors. The "Smoker" moniker recalls those early performances when Galens men enjoyed tobacco along with their ribald humor.  

In 1962, third-year medical student Robert Bartlett proposed basing the Smoker on “The Music Man,” following a plot with an overarching theme. With the premiere of “The Medicine Man” and “M4 Lady” the next year, Dr. Bartlett secured his legacy as the Father of the Modern Smoker. He went on to accomplish less important things, like creating ECMO.

Service, socialization, faculty recognition, and student advocacy have remained central to Galens Medical Society throughout its long history. We are proud to carry on these traditions today. The Galens Smoker would not exist without the generous support of our community. 

Thank you for your donation!