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Former Surgeon General, Director of Doctors For America Talk Positivity in the COVID-19 Era

  • Writer: Vivek Murthy
    Vivek Murthy
  • Sep 7, 2020
  • 1 min read

Former United States Surgeon General Vivek H. Murthy ’98 and former director of Doctors for America Alice Chen spoke to students about hope amid the coronavirus pandemic in a Tuesday webinar.


Murthy and Chen, who are married, were invited by South Asian Americans in Public Service, a Harvard College student organization. Both have previously spoken at SAAPS and Harvard Kennedy School events.


Aman A. Panjwani ’20, SAAPS co-founder and event co-organizer, said in an interview that he felt that there was a “lack of rhetoric” on hope and positivity during the outbreak, and that SAAPS sought to create an event to close that gap. As of March 29, there were 200 registered to attend the webinar, according to Panjwani.


In the webinar, Murthy and Chen took questions from student moderators and then opened the virtual floor to the audience.


Murthy predicts that even when the virus is under control, going back to normal “won’t be like flipping a switch.”


“It will be like a gradual phase-in,” he said. One such circumstance, he postulated, could be reopening of schools and workplaces but still banning large gatherings and concerts.

Both stressed the importance of self-care and mindfulness from home during the uncertainty of the developing pandemic.


“It’s so easy to be buried in an avalanche of everything that’s coming at you,” Murthy said.


“Be easy on yourself.”


“No shame in Netflix!” Chen said, discussing ways to pass time at home.


Read full story on the Harvard Crimson: https://www.thecrimson.com/article/2020/4/1/harvard-coronavirus-hope-webinar/

243 Comments


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Malik Saab
Malik Saab
Feb 08

Warm and inspiring, this post beautifully connects music, community, and environment in a way that feels authentic. The imagery makes the experience come alive for readers who were not there. It shows how creativity can bring people together. I recently encountered a similar community focused reflection on https://tmccordlaw.com/ and it reinforced how shared experiences like this can positively impact mental and social well being.

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suresh.williams73
Feb 04

This was a thoughtful and reassuring perspective during a time that challenged everyone in different ways. Hearing leader’s talk about positivity and empathy made a real difference, especially when uncertainty was at its peak. It’s a reminder that small anchors of hope—whether through words, community, or even familiar routines like lighting a brass Diya big size at home—can help people stay grounded. Very meaningful discussion.

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Jan 19

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Flypped news
Flypped news
Jan 17

This was such an insightful and encouraging read, especially during challenging times. The focus on positivity and resilience really shines through, and it’s great to see thoughtful perspectives on health and community. If others here enjoy staying updated on meaningful stories and timely topics, check out Flypped News for fresh articles and news you can use.

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© 2025 Dr. Vivek H. Murthy. All rights reserved.

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