Tan Lam – Educator, Scientist, and Founder of the Seattle Mini Medical School (SMMS)
My name is Tan Lam, and I have been teaching high school math and science for 26 years. Before becoming a teacher, I spent ten years as a research scientist, including graduate studies at Dartmouth Medical School, where I investigated T cell responses to retroviruses. My research was published in respected medical journals, including the American Journal of Medical Genetics, Journal of General Virology, Cellular Immunology, Viral Immunology, and Experimental Cell Research. I hold a Master’s Degree in Biochemistry from Dartmouth College.
After graduate school, I returned to my alma mater to teach science, intending to teach for a few years before pursuing a medical doctorate. That was 25 years ago, and teaching became my true calling.
Why teaching? As a former refugee and English language learner, I received tremendous support from schools, teachers, and nonprofit organizations. My teachers went the extra mile to help me succeed. I feel a deep sense of gratitude and a responsibility to give back. Becoming a teacher has allowed me to help students who are “average” or at-risk—students like I once was—achieve academic success, attend college, and pursue their American Dream.
As my teaching career winds down, I have been reflecting on the legacy I want to leave. In 2019, the Washington State Board of Education approved the Tu Luong Medical Mission Foundation to establish the Seattle Mini Medical School (SMMS). SMMS provides a full curriculum for grades 6–12, blending STEM education with medicine and medical mission. It is designed for students serious about careers in healthcare.
Through SMMS, students gain early exposure to the science of medicine, clinical skills, and real-world medical experiences that foster compassion and service. My ultimate goal is to guide, encourage, and educate future physicians, dentists, pharmacists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to care deeply for the poor and needy, both locally and globally.
My journey—from refugee to scientist, teacher, and mentor—has been shaped by the support of others and a commitment to giving back. Through SMMS, I hope to inspire the next generation of compassionate healthcare leaders.
Contact
Email is preferred for initial inquiries. Thank you for considering me to support your child’s learning journey!
