Drs. Christopher Hiromura and Christopher Gruber met at the Keck School of Medicine of USC, drawn together by a shared commitment to underserved communities and a deep respect for the mentorship of Dean Althea Alexander. Their paths to medicine were distinct, but converged in a way that shaped their careers and their lives.

Dr. Gruber grew up in a medical household in Germany, with a pediatric surgeon father and a nurse mother. “I tried everything in my power not to become a doctor,” he said. “I studied music, languages, and dreamed of being a traveling journalist. But my father sat me down and said, ‘You can do all those things in medicine.’” That realization led him to combine his interests in service, science, and cross-cultural connections through medicine.

Dr. Hiromura, on the other hand, was the first in his family to pursue healthcare. “Biology was the first class I was interested in and did well in,” he recalled. After teaching for several years post-undergrad, he realized medicine offered a broader way to impact children and families, especially those from immigrant communities.

Both doctors found a home at USC, not just academically but personally. Dr. Gruber was drawn to Southern California and USC’s openness to personal growth. “I wanted to do civil service and learn Spanish, so I volunteered in Central America while applying to med schools. I wanted to hold my spot at a medical school while volunteering, and USC was the only school that responded within a day and said, ‘No problem, see you next year.’ That stood out.”

Dr. Hiromura was inspired by the opportunity to train at County. “It was the safety net for Los Angeles. I wanted to be part of that history and learn how to care for patients in that setting.”

Their shared connection to Dr. Althea Alexander was transformative. “Her office was a retreat from the studies,” said Dr. Gruber. “It was full of laughter, politics, community service, and support. She helped us feel at home.” Dr. Hiromura added, “She created a safe space. Whether it was food, checking in, or taking us out to break bread, she was a constant presence and a clear mentor.”

Today, both doctors continue to serve the communities that shaped their training. Dr. Hiromura works with patients in the same community as County. “I feel privileged because of the quality of my education. I love working with residents who are mission-focused and seeing first-generation doctors graduate every year.”

Dr. Gruber credits USC’s early clinical exposure and support for alternative paths, like his work in Africa and Haiti, with preparing him for a demanding career. “USC students have grit. The school encouraged us to go beyond the classroom.”

Inspired by Dr. Alexander’s legacy, Drs. Hiromura and Gruber, along with several of their USC colleagues and classmates, established the Althea and Fredric Alexander Student Support Fund in 2016. Since its inception, the fund has supported 56 medical students and counting, enabling them to pursue projects outside the classroom through community service, education research, and professional development opportunities.

“We were incredibly fortunate,” said Dr. Hiromura. “We want to ensure the Class of 2005 isn’t an anomaly.” Dr. Gruber added, “It’s not just tuition, it’s creating a family for students while they’re here. A community. A place to do special projects, go to conferences, and feel at home.”

Their advice to alumni? “Recognize how much USC helped you, and use that as a catalyst to give back.”

As you celebrate your Keck School of Medicine Reunion Weekend, please join Drs. Gruber and Hiromura in coming back and giving back.