When the COVID-19 pandemic struck Maryland in February 2020, the University of Maryland St. Joseph Medical Center found itself at the forefront of an unprecedented healthcare crisis.
To honor their remarkable response and preserve this historic chapter, they partnered with Adler Display to create a powerful visual narrative that would inspire and educate for years to come.
The Challenge
UM St. Joseph needed a way to commemorate their pandemic response while capturing the complexity of their “Journey of Resilience.” The display had to tell a comprehensive story that honored both the patients they served and the healthcare heroes who rose to meet this once-in-a-lifetime challenge. The installation needed to be both informative and emotionally resonant, serving as a lasting tribute to their community’s strength during the crisis.
The Solution
Adler Display created an impressive accordion-style wall installation featuring multiple tall panels that unfold the complete COVID-19 story. The story is enhanced with scrolling images on monitors throughout the timeline. Themed “Home of the Brave,” the recognition display organizes the pandemic narrative into four key pillars:
- Data: Documenting the statistics and timeline of their response
- Innovation: Showcasing the creative solutions and rapid adaptations made
- Support: Highlighting the community and internal support systems
- Celebration: Honoring the heroes and milestones achieved
The modular design allows viewers to experience the story as it unfolds chronologically, from that first state of emergency declaration on February 28, 2020, through the activation of UMMS’s first-ever fully integrated incident command structure, to the successful navigation of this historic challenge.
The Impact
This thoughtfully designed display serves multiple purposes: educating visitors about the medical center’s pandemic response, honoring the dedication of healthcare workers, and providing a source of inspiration for future challenges. The “Journey of Resilience” display stands as a testament to what can be achieved when healthcare professionals unite with unwavering commitment to their community.
The installation demonstrates Adler Display’s expertise in transforming complex healthcare narratives into compelling, accessible visual experiences that preserve important institutional history while inspiring continued excellence in patient care.