The News Stories that Defined the School of Medicine in 2020

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2020 Top News Stories

For a wide range of reasons, 2020 is a year that we won’t soon forget—from the heroism on the front lines of medicine, powerful demonstrations surrounding racial equality, and the change to our day-to-day lives and our perspectives.

It was a monumental year in so many ways for St. George’s University School of Medicine, its faculty, staff, and students. SGU made history when students and graduates secured 1,124 residency positions across the US and Canada in 2020—a 95 percent residency placement rate for eligible 2020 US graduates who applied for US residencies* and a record for the University. Over the summer, approximately 450 of those grads began their residencies in New York-New Jersey area hospitals, some of the hardest-hit hospitals in the nation during the early days of the COVID pandemic.

SGU profiled many alumni across specialties and locales who tirelessly donated their time and services to help those suffering from the disease, some of those who sacrificed seeing their own families to help the sickest of COVID patients.

It was also a year in which diversity and equality was brought to the limelight. The University had frank discussions with its entire community about the importance of listening, learning, and supporting, not only in the current climate but going forward.

These are the stories that underscore the School of Medicine’s strengths and define us as a University as we aim to enhance student success and grow the number of healthcare professionals around the world. Read on to see the top news stories of 2020 on SGU.edu.

*SGU student data as of November 2020

Match Day 2020

Match Day 2020

With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, SGU students and graduates were called on to assist in the fight against the virus. On Match Day 2020 in March, they learned of where they would begin their career as physicians. Positions were secured across a wide range of specialties—including anesthesiology, emergency medicine, orthopedic surgery, pathology, and many more—and spanned across the United States.

All told, 1,124 SGU graduates had started residency in the US and Canada in 2020, which equals a 95 percent residency placement rate for eligible 2020 US graduates who applied for US residencies*—a record for the University—including some 450 SGU grads in New York-New Jersey area hospitals. They joined a proud network of 18,000 SGU physicians who have made a difference in healthcare around the world.

*SGU student data as of November 2020

Read the full article

 

A Conversation on Diversity in the Medical Profession: Thoughts from SGU’s Student National Medical Association

With the tragic deaths of people like George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and many others, and as social justice events were held around the world, SGU News connected with SGU chapter members of the Student National Medical Association (SNMA). The national organization is committed to supporting current and future underrepresented minority medical students by addressing the needs of underserved communities, and increasing the number of “clinically excellent, culturally competent, and socially conscious physicians.” SGU chapter members shared their perspectives on the world around us, the importance of the SNMA’s mission, and how students can get involved.

Read the full article

 

Wyckoff Hospital

SGU Adds New US Clinical Sites for Medical School Student Core Rotations

SGU’s clinical network is growing. This fall, seven US hospitals joined the SGU family, including several in California as well as a new venue into the South that allow third-year medical students to receive core clinical training during a crucial time in healthcare.

These hospitals included:

  • Baton Rouge General Medical Center in Baton Rouge, LA
  • Doctor’s Medical Center in Modesto, CA
  • Hemet Valley Medical Center in Hemet, CA
  • MacNeal Hospital in Maywood, IL
  • Mission Community Hospital in Panorama City, CA
  • Westchester General Hospital in Miami, FL
  • Wyckoff Heights Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY
Read the full article

 

Georgios Mihalopulos, MD '18

True Calling: From the Navy to the OR

Critical problem solving. A wide array of challenges. The operating room was exactly the type of workplace atmosphere that Georgios Mihalopulos, MD ’18, set out to find when he began working toward a career in medicine. It also mirrored his life as an officer in the Canadian Navy, a position that he held before and during medical school.

“I always say I love stress and I hate sleep, so that’s why surgery is the perfect field for me,” said Mihalopulos, now a third-year surgery resident at Waterbury Hospital in Connecticut. “It just seemed like the most natural thing in the world for me to do.”

Read the full article

 

SGU and Grenada partner to address COVID-19 pandemic

As the coronavirus pandemic spread throughout the world, SGU and the Government of Grenada worked hand in hand, developing and operating a COVID testing facility, and bringing in new devices to treat ill patients.

Read the full article

SVM Faculty Spotlight: Dr. Lauren Nicki Wise Dishes on Crucial Communication Skills for Veterinarians

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Vet telehealth

At the heart of any relationship, including doctor-to-patient, and whether that patient is human or animal, is good communication.

Dr. Lauren Nicki Wise, assistant dean of fourth-year clinical training for the School of Veterinary Medicine and professor in the Department of Large Animal Medicine and Surgery, explained why it is important that vet students receive ample training and preparation of effective client communication skills, including a focus on the growing practice of telehealth within vet medicine.

St. George’s University: How are communication topics taught to vet students?

Dr. Lauren Nicki Wise, assistant dean of fourth-year clinical training for the School of Veterinary Medicine

Dr. Lauren Nicki Wise

Dr. Lauren Nicki Wise: Students are required to take client communication labs as part of SVM’s Professional Development Curriculum, which is a set of six courses that occur in Terms 1-6. The curriculum focuses on the “non-technical competencies” that successful veterinarian’s practice on a daily basis. These competencies include, but are not limited to:

  • leadership
  • communication
  • ethics
  • wellness
  • business/financial literacy
  • evidence-based practice

Part of the communication curriculum includes laboratory sessions where students practice client communication with simulated clients (SCs), or actors who have been trained extensively to fill this role in the curriculum. Through these simulations, students gain invaluable experience before being placed into a real exam room with a real client. These labs are mandatory and occur in Terms 5 and 6.

SGU: How did the curriculum translate to virtual learning once the pandemic hit?

Dr. Wise: Before COVID, these labs occurred in person but when the pandemic forced campus closure, we adapted the labs to an online format over Zoom. Working with our collaborators in the Washington State University CVM Clinical Communication Program, for the Fall 2020 term we have altered these labs to focus on telehealth and the role that this plays in the lives of veterinarians all over the world due to the pandemic. Aside from the SCs, the labs are team taught by SVM faculty who are passionate about this topic and have been trained to coach the students through these experiences.

SGU: Do the labs include both small and large animal cases?

Dr. Wise: For the Fall 2020 term we only focused on small animal cases, but for the Spring 2021 term we will be adding large animal as well. But the beauty of communication skills is that it really has nothing to do with the species or the details of the case. You can connect with your client in the same way, using the same skills, whether you are examining a kitten or a chicken.

SGU: What are the key takeaways that students should know after taking the course?

Dr. Wise: First, it is important that students realize these skills are learned just like learning to spay a dog. You are not born being a good communicator. It takes work and practice—yet mastering these skills is extremely important to be a successful veterinarian.

Secondly, everyone’s communication style is different. It takes lots of practice to find what works for you and your clients. And these labs give them the tools and experience to continue their growth in clinical year and once in practice.

SGU: Why is telemedicine is an increasingly important practice in vet medicine?

Dr. Wise: The pandemic has created a situation where many veterinarians are reducing their contact with the public to protect themselves and their staff. As such, many client interactions are being done over the phone or on Zoom. We felt it was very important to use these labs as a platform for students to be exposed to this type of communication since many of them will likely need to feel comfortable with it in the future.

SGU: Why will it be important for students to know these skills as they enter their careers?

Dr. Wise: Being able to effectively communicate with your clients is one of the main skills that most veterinarians will use on a daily basis. Research shows us that effective communication reduces client complaints, increases client compliance (which results in healthier pets), and enhances veterinary job satisfaction (and thus wellness).

– Laurie Chartorynsky

St. George’s University Announces New Admissions Partnership with McMaster University’s W Booth School

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Photo of SGU campus surrounded by water and blue sky

St. George’s University has launched a new admissions partnership with the W Booth School in the Faculty of Engineering at McMaster University. This partnership will grant qualified BTech Biotechnology students fast-track admission into the St. George’s University School of Medicine.

“St. George’s University is delighted to offer this new opportunity for aspiring doctors from the W Booth School to pursue degrees in medicine with us,” said Dr. Marios Loukas, dean of St. George’s University School of Medicine. “SGU is tremendously proud to partner with the W Booth School to create more avenues for qualified Canadian students to become practicing physicians while helping to address Canada’s ongoing physician shortage.”

The partnership creates a BTech in Biotechnology to Doctor of Medicine pathway that provides students who have successfully completed the Bachelor of Technology in Biotechnology at the W Booth School and meet the requirements for entry with admission to the four-year MD program at SGU. Booth students interested in pursuing the pathway must maintain a strong overall GPA and a strong GPA in prerequisite coursework.

Qualified students will be eligible to complete the basic sciences component of the SGU MD program in either two years of study in Grenada or one year at Northumbria University in the United Kingdom and one year in Grenada. Students’ clinical rotations will take place with SGU’s affiliate network of more than 75 hospitals and health systems in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom offering clinical and ambulatory training.

“This opportunity significantly broadens the academic and career horizons for our BTech-Biotechnology graduates, offering invaluable global experience,” says Heather Sheardown, dean of Engineering at McMaster. “We eagerly anticipate our first alumni embarking on this journey, gaining the academic and practical expertise needed to make meaningful contributions to healthcare.”

BTech Biotechnology students who are accepted into the pathway with a sufficiently high overall GPA and sciences GPA will be awarded a scholarship of US $85,000 at SGU School of Medicine. Students will also be eligible to be considered for all of SGU’s School of Medicine scholarships. SGU granted more than US $71 million in scholarships in the 2023-2024 academic year.*

 

* Data as of October 2024. The scholarship total represents assistance for the duration of students’ four-year MD program.

 

Related News

2 SOM Grads Featured in International News Publications

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Headshots of Jeff Vacirca and Orapeleng Phuswane-Katse

Two St. George’s University School of Medicine graduates, Jeff Vacirca, MD ’98, and Orapeleng Phuswane-Katse, MD ’11, BS ’07, are making an impression across various international news publications.

On World Cancer Day, Dr. Vacirca shared his tips for preventing the disease in news outlets throughout Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

Dr. Vacirca, who is based in New York, serves as CEO and chairman of the Board at New York Cancer & Blood Specialists and is the co-founder of OneOncology. According to OneOncology, the organization “invests in and collaborates with [medical] practices to deliver comprehensive cancer care in communities.”

Addressing audiences in India, Dr. Vacirca shared:

“On World Cancer Day, we are reminded of the profound impact cancer has on India and other nations worldwide. By embracing healthier lifestyles, getting necessary vaccinations, and encouraging early detection, we can collectively reduce the burden of this disease and pave the way for a healthier future for all Indians.”

Read Dr. Vacirca’s insights on incorporating practices for cancer prevention into your daily life.

 

Read the full article

 

Dr. Phuswane-Katse was recently profiled in the Botswana-based publication The Voice for her work in public health at the Ministry of Health and Wellness.  

In her role as head of preventive programmes, she manages diseases among the population through public health program planning, implementation, and evaluation at both district and national levels. 

A graduate of SGU’s School of Medicine and the School of Arts and Sciences, Dr. Phuswane-Katse is using her skills and expertise gained from SGU to make a positive impact in her community.  

“We should all strive for an inclusive healthcare system, which is a system that reaches everyone regardless of their socioeconomic status or distance from healthcare facilities,” said Dr. Phuswane-Katse. “One of the ways I am working towards an inclusive health system is by bringing mobile healthcare outreach to rural communities.” 

Read more about Dr. Phuswane-Katse’s journey in The Voice. 

 

Read the full article

 

 

— Juliette Kimmins

 

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SGU Expands Admissions Partnership with Dillard University

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St. George's University - Grenada campus

St. George’s University and Dillard University have expanded their admissions partnership that grants qualified Dillard students early assurance and expedited entry into the SGU’s  School of Medicine and School of Veterinary Medicine to include a new Master of Public Health pathway and 4+4 MD and DVM pathway.

“St. George’s University is delighted to offer new opportunities for aspiring doctors, veterinarians, and public health professionals from Dillard University,” said Dr. Marios Loukas, dean of St. George’s University School of Medicine. “SGU is tremendously proud to partner with Dillard to expand access to our MPH, MD, and DVM programs.”

Under the enhanced agreement, Dillard students who earn a Bachelor of Science in Public Health, Health Science, or Nursing who meet the standards for admission at SGU will be admitted to the Master of Public Health program at SGU’s School of Graduate Studies. The MPH program at SGU offers five tracks with varying specializations.

The partnership creates a “4+4” admissions pathway that provides students who have successfully completed Dillard’s pre-medical or pre-veterinary curricula with admission to the four-year MD or DVM programs at SGU. Dillard students interested in pursuing the pathway must maintain a strong overall GPA and sciences GPA, and score competitively on relevant entrance exams, including the MCAT for the School of Medicine.

Students in the four-year MD program will complete two years of basic sciences study at SGU’s campus in Grenada and clinical rotations in the third and fourth years at various SGU affiliates. SGU School of Medicine works with a network of more than 75 hospitals and health systems in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom offering clinical and ambulatory training. DVM students will complete three years of study in Grenada, followed by a fourth year of clinical training. The School of Veterinary Medicine offers clinical training at over 30 affiliated institutions in six countries.

“Dillard University is the oldest Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in the State of Louisiana,” said Dr. Monique Guillory, president of Dillard University. “Given our longstanding commitment to people from diverse regions and populations, the university looks forward to forging a strong partnership with St. George’s University in Grenada. Our mutual partnership will support our students’ academic and professional goals to pursue postgraduate studies in Public Health, Medicine, and Veterinary Medicine. As part of our continued commitment to academic excellence and diversity, we recognize St. George’s University, located on the ‘Spice Island’ of Grenada, as an exemplary global partner in higher education.”

Students who are accepted into these pathways will be granted a $10,000 scholarship for the SGU School of Medicine. Accepted participants may be eligible to be considered for all of SGU’s School of Medicine and School of Veterinary Medicine scholarships and grants. SGU granted more than $71 million in scholarships in the 2023-2024 academic year.*

 

* Data as of October 2024. The scholarship total represents assistance for the duration of students’ four-year MD program.

 

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SVM 25th Anniversary Recognized at VetBolus 2024 Conference

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group photo of SVM faculty, staff, alumni, and students at VetBolus 2024

St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine (SVM) commemorated its 25th anniversary during the VetBolus continuing education conference held this past fall in Grenada. SVM alumni, administration, and faculty honored the milestone during the conference’s Alumni Welcome Reception, which took place on SGU’s campus on November 8.

 

View the SVM 25th Anniversary Celebration album

 

During the celebration, Tara Paterson, DVM ’03, president of the School of Veterinary Medicine Alumni Association (SVMAA), reflected on the School’s 25 years in a speech.

“As much as the SGU campus and the SVM faculty have changed, at least one thing remains the same,” said Dr. Paterson. “Our students are committed to their education. In my experience, when our students go to clinicals, they continue to excel and represent SGU well.”

“On behalf of all SVM alumni,” Dr. Paterson continued, “I want to say thank you to St. George’s University for the opportunity to make our dreams of veterinary medicine a reality.”

Joshua Ames, DVM ’10, of Greer, SC, attended the VetBolus conference. As this was his first time back in Grenada since graduating from SGU, Dr. Ames was delighted to see the advancements and increased alumni presence in the School of Veterinary Medicine.

“It was amazing to see how much the campus has grown with new facilities and study areas,” he explained. “It was great to see alumni returning to the University and being able to mentor and connect with the current students.”

SVM grads at SVM 25th anniversary reception

Another SGU graduate in attendance, Kelsey Atamanchuk, DVM ’21, of Harriman, TN, shared the sentiment.

“It was wonderful being able to see both the school I know and love, as well as the improvements,” Dr. Atamanchuk said. “It was a mixture of nostalgia and pride for the school that allowed me to be where I am today. I also enjoyed getting to see some of my previous professors and swap stories about cases.”

Approximately 80 SVM alumni attended VetBolus in Grenada this year. VetBolus is a continuing education conference for veterinary professionals and leaders. Its mission is to deliver practical and engaging continuing education content in locations around the world. The conference was founded by SVM alum, Aaron Spacher, DVM ’17, who co-launched VetBolus in early 2022.

Dr. Ames said that he hopes to see more continuing education opportunities at SGU like VetBolus because it is an opportunity for non-SGU graduates to appreciate the campus and all the University has to offer.

“I talked with several veterinarians who had never been to SGU before and were very impressed by the campus and in awe of Grenada,” said Dr. Ames. “Returning to Grenada and seeing how SGU has grown made me even prouder to be an alum of the SGU School of Veterinary Medicine.”

Brendon LaGrenade, Neil Olson, Glen Jacobs, and Tara Paterson

Brendon LaGrenade, EdD, vice provost for Institutional Advancement and director of Alumni Affairs, credited VetBolus for helping make this celebration possible and for boosting alumni engagement.

“Thanks to VetBolus, we were able to host many of our SVM alumni here in Grenada, which made this silver anniversary celebration very special,” said Dr. LaGrenade. “Our alumni are the best representation of our success as a university and the same holds true for our School of Veterinary Medicine.”

In acknowledgement of SVM’s 25th anniversary, Dr. Neil Olson, dean of SVM, offered this message:

“As we celebrate the 25th anniversary of St. George’s School of Veterinary Medicine, we reflect with pride on the journey that has brought us here. This milestone is a testament to the dedication of our remarkable faculty, the commitment of our staff, the success of our alumni, and the passion of our students. Thank you for being the heart and soul of our school, driving us forward as we continue to inspire, innovate, and make a difference in the world.”

 

 

— Juliette Kimmins 

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SGU’s Assistant Dean of Research: “Research is part of our DNA”

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research in a laboratory

The opportunity to engage in and learn to do meaningful research is a fundamental part of a high-quality medical education. Recognizing this, St. George’s University’s School of Medicine has strengthened its support for students and faculty involved in research, creating new opportunities to advance knowledge and the practice of medicine.

“A good physician is not only one who knows a lot about medicine but one who keeps himself or herself at the forefront of their field,” explained Dr. Martin Forde, the School of Medicine’s assistant dean of research and professor in the SOM’s Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine. “This is achieved either by contributing to the body of knowledge in medicine or by interpreting and incorporating the latest research insights into the treatment of patients. This allows them to provide their patients the best and highest standard of care they can.”

SGU’s Office of Research is committed to nurturing a “spirit of inquiry” by providing support and resources to students and faculty to help bring their ideas to fruition. The School of Medicine also has two dedicated institutes—the Medical Student Research Institute and Faculty Research Institute––which provide additional avenues for students and faculty to engage in research and other scholarly activities.

“At SGU, we firmly believe that research should be a core component that is integrated into every medical student’s education,” Dr. Forde said. “Over the past few years, we have worked to embed research into the fabric of the medical school experience, essentially making it part of SGU’s DNA.”

These efforts have yielded impressive results. In 2023, the School of Medicine community, including basic sciences and clinical students as well as affiliated faculty, published over 874 peer-reviewed journal articles. Of that, the 172 publications by Basic Sciences students and faculty was the highest output among all Caribbean medical schools, according to a PubMed search for School of Medicine authorship affiliations by the Office of Research for the year 2023.  In addition, 126 students were honored with research and scholarly distinction awards at the 2024 commencement ceremonies.

Dr. Forde shared with SGU News more details on why engaging in research is beneficial for would-be physicians, and how med students at SGU can get involved. Here’s what he had to say.

SGU: What opportunities are there for School of Medicine students to engage in research?

Dr. Forde: Research, and the skills to conduct it have been built into SGU’s MD curriculum. In Term 3, students gain foundational knowledge on how to do statistics and epidemiology. Then, when students do their clinical rotations, they learn how to do translational research, learning how to incorporate the latest research findings into patient treatment and care. The assignments the students get during this phase of their training teaches them how to analyze and apply insights from published research so as to develop treatment regimens that are best tailored to their patient’s needs.

In particular, the Medical Student Research Institute (MSRI) program allows medical students who have demonstrated academic excellence the opportunity to further hone their research skills by working with an assigned faculty mentor on a research project. Students can enter the MSRI program in their Basic Sciences years or during their clinical years.

 

“At SGU, we firmly believe that research should be a core component that is integrated into every medical student’s education. Over the past few years, we have worked to embed research into the fabric of the medical school experience, essentially making it part of SGU’s DNA.”

 

All students who achieve significant research milestones, such as authoring a peer-reviewed research publication or presenting at a major medical conference while in the SOM are eligible to graduate with distinctions such as “Distinction in Scholarly Activity” or Distinction in Research.”

SGU: What are some research topics that students are currently working on through the MSRI?

Dr. Forde: Current research in the Basic Sciences MSRI spans a wide range of topics, including reviews, clinical investigations, and population studies in Grenada and elsewhere. For instance, environmental health studies are investigating the health impacts of pollutants like bisphenol and PFAS, or improved water filtration systems, on overall health. Other studies are focused on critical public health issues such as the impacts of hurricanes, stroke awareness, and HPV vaccination efforts.

SGU: What benefits will students gain from participating in research in med school?

Dr. Forde: Engaging in research allows students to move beyond simply assimilating and absorbing existing knowledge to meaningfully contributing to expanding the knowledge base of the medical field. By participating in research, students transition from just being consumers of information to becoming creators, helping to fill the gaps in the field that were missing and potentially devising innovative solutions to improve patient care.

In the process, students develop valuable skills that will enhance their approach patient care Including:

  • Enabling critical thinking and analytical skills;
  • Understanding and interpreting evidence-based medicine, ensuring treatments are grounded in solid research;
  • Enhanced problem-solving skills, fostering creative and effective solutions;
  • Improved confidence and interpersonal communication skills, essential for patient and peer interactions; and
  • Enhancing their ability to communicate complex information clearly, accurately, and concisely honed through research paper writing.

Involvement in research also provides practical skills, such as:

  • Learning how to make connections while collaborating with other researchers.
  • Securing strong letters of recommendation, and importantly,
  • Enabling them to distinguish themselves during residency interviews.

SGU: What resources are available to help students get started?

Dr. Forde: SGU now offers all SGU students and faculty access to Nature’s Masterclasses on Demand, a premier educational resource.  This web-based platform provides a comprehensive suite of 24 courses that guides users through every stage of the research process. All are encouraged to utilize this valuable resource.

Additionally, the School of Medicine provides financial support to cover the publication fees for faculty and students whose papers are accepted by reputable, non-predatory journals, provided they clearly acknowledge their affiliation with St. George’s University, School of Medicine.

SGU: Looking forward, what is on the horizon for research opportunities at SGU?

Dr. Forde: As we strive to make research an even more integral part of the SGU experience, we are actively developing new initiatives to further cultivate and foster a spirit of inquiry and research among our students and faculty.

 

 

– Laurie Chartorynsky

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The 5 Most Impactful SAS and SGS Stories of 2024

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From 25 years of excellence in public health education to the newest class of future nurses, St. George’s University Schools of Arts and Sciences, and Graduate Studies have much to be proud of in 2024.

Take a look at some of the most impactful SGU News SAS and SGS stories of 2024. Then, go ahead and read our The 5 Most Impactful School of Medicine Stories of 2024 and The 5 Most Impactful School of Veterinary Medicine Stories of 2024.

 

1. Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine Milestone Moments 

SGU’s Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine celebrated 25 years of offering a Master of Public Health to students and contributing to building a competent public health workforce globally.

Read how SGU Celebrates 25 Years of Excellence of the Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine

 

2. Nursing Induction Ceremony

At this year’s Nursing Induction Ceremony, 76 SAS students marked the beginning of their journey into the nursing profession. During the ceremony, each student received The Arnold P. Gold Foundation’s golden Mobius loop pin, which serves as a visual reminder that in order to deliver the best care to their patients, compassion and empathy must be the hallmark of their clinical practice.

Read Called to Serve: 76 Students Inducted at SAS Nursing Induction Ceremony

 

3. SGU Grad Serves as Grenada’s New High Commissioner to the UK

Her Excellency Rachér Croney, MBA ’13, BA ’09, reflected on how her experiences at SGU prepared her for a world of diplomacy and her past year as High Commissioner for Grenada to the United Kingdom.

“It’s exciting and humbling to be appointed as the High Commissioner for Grenada in the UK,” said Her Excellency. “It brings me immense joy to be able to represent my country and advance the Government of Grenada’s developmental agenda. While the job is not without its challenges, it only serves as motivation to be even more innovative, persistent, determined, and focused.”

Read more about SGU Grad Thrives as Grenada’s High Commissioner to UK

 

 

4. Grenadian Secures Highly Competitive US Residency

Match Day is a significant milestone in the careers of future physicians. This year, Grenadian-born SOM and SAS alumna, Toya Ameda, MD ’24, BSc ’21, secured a highly competitive US residency position in interventional radiology.

“Finding out that I matched felt surreal. A weight had been lifted off my shoulders, as I now had confirmation that I would actually be an interventional radiologist,” she said.

Read Match Day 2024: Grenadian SGU Student Secures Highly Competitive US Residency Position

 

5. Celebrating Grenada’s 50th year of independence

SGU proudly joined with the rest of Grenada in kicking off a yearlong celebration of the country’s Golden Jubilee of Independence.

According to Dr. Brendon La Grenade, vice provost for Institutional Advancement: “Whether it was volunteering to decorate and showcase our campus, individual teams decorating their offices and dressing up, or showcasing their culinary skills, SGU’s campus community went above and beyond to make our 50th celebration truly special.”

Check out SGU Celebrates Grenada’s 50th Anniversary of Independence

 

– Ray-Donna Peters

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The 5 Most Impactful School of Medicine Stories of 2024

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Collage with the top SOM stories of 2024

As the year comes to a close, the St. George’s University School of Medicine community has much to be proud of. An expanded clinical site network in the US, 940+ US residency placements, and several new and improved campus facilities are just some of the exciting benchmarks of 2024.*

Take a look at some of the most impactful SGU News SOM stories of 2024. Then, go ahead and read our The 5 Most Impactful School of Veterinary Medicine Stories of 2024.

 

1. Match 2024

Match Day 2024 marked a significant milestone in the careers of SOM grads.

This year, more than 940 SOM students and graduates secured residency positions in the US.* There were matches in 22 specialties including surgery, child neurology, diagnostic radiology, and more.* Match 2024 was particularly notable for the Rienzo family–SGU alums and brothers, Francis Rienzo, MD ’88 and Peter Rienzo, MD ’85, witnessed their children match into residency, Emily Rienzo, MD ’24 and Jake Rienzo, MD ’24, respectively.

Read what it felt like to Match in 2024 and about the Rienzo family legacy

 

 

2. Campus Enhancements

As SGU continues to improve its campus for students, faculty, and staff, 2024 saw some exciting new additions and upgrades. The campus added a dog park, a multifaith prayer area, a new large animal farm, and tiki bar. The University also upgraded many classrooms and dorms.

See the new campus enhancements of 2024

 

 

Students coated at ceremony

3. White Coat Ceremonies

First term med students marked the start of their professional journeys to become doctors during this year’s White Coat Ceremonies. During the ceremonies, students affirmed their commitment to the study of medicine, pledged to adhere to values of humanism, and took an oath of professionalism.

Check out SGU Welcomes Aspiring Physicians and Veterinarians at Fall 2024 White Coat Ceremonies in Grenada

 

 

4 SGU students stand on a roof that they are helping repair.

4. SGU Students and Alumni Give Back After Hurricane Beryl

On July 1, 2024, Grenada and its sister islands, Petite Martinique and Carriacou, were hit by Category 5 storm Hurricane Beryl. In the wake of the destruction, St. George’s University students stepped up to aid in the recovery and rebuilding efforts. These efforts included assisting nursing staff, fixing damage to roofs and other structures, beach cleanups, organizing donations for supplies and funds, and more.

The SOM Alumni Association also played a critical role in gathering resources post-hurricane by raising more than $77,000 USD.

Read more about SGU students’ relief efforts and SOM alumni’s charity drive for Grenadians impacted by Beryl

 

 

Clinical training

5. US Clinical Site Network Expands 

SGU added new sites for clinical students to complete their rotations in Arizona, Georgia, and Florida this year.

“We are excited to offer students more opportunities to train in the US,” said Dr. Daniel D. Ricciardi, executive vice president of SGU’s clinical network development. “These clinical site additions allow SGU to expand upon a system that has proven successful not only in the education of our medical students, but also in creating a community for students to thrive.”

Read SGU Adds 4 Clinical Sites for Med Student Core Rotations; Expands Hands-On Training Locations to Arizona

 

*Data as of October 2024

 

— Juliette Kimmins

 

 

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The 5 Most Impactful School of Veterinary Medicine Stories of 2024

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Collage of photos from the top svm stories of 2024

As the year comes to a close, the St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine community has much to be proud of. Success in this year’s Veterinary Internship and Residency Matching Program (VIRMP), SVM community support to Grenada’s animals after Hurricane Beryl, and the inaugural SVM career fair are just some of the exciting benchmarks of 2024.

Take a look at some of the most impactful SGU News SVM stories of 2024. Then, go ahead and read our The 5 Most Impactful School of Medicine Stories of 2024.

 

Veterinary students standing over a dog on an examination table

1. 2024 Veterinary Internship and Residency Matching Program (VIRMP)

Twenty-eight SVM students and graduates secured competitive internship and residency positions within the 2023 Veterinary Internship & Residency Matching Program (VIRMP).  

SGU-trained veterinarians achieved a match rate of 51.8 percent, in line with the match rate of 51.5 percent for all veterinary schools—including those in the US, according to data released by the VIRMP, a program sponsored by the American Association of Veterinary Clinicians (AAVC).

Beginning in June, the veterinarians will begin their specialized training in areas such as small animal internal medicine, emergency and critical care, surgery, dermatology, orthopedic medicine, and more. These positions are situated at prestigious institutions within the SVM’s network of clinical affiliates as well as specialty hospitals across the US and Canada.

Read VIRMP 2024: 28 SGU Students Secure Competitive Veterinary Internship and Residency Positions

 

 

Carriacou Animal Hospital dog

2. SVM Offers Support to Grenada’s Animals Post-Beryl

SVM students, faculty, staff, and alumni aided Grenada’s animals and livestock in the wake of Hurricane Beryl in an uplifting display of community and collaboration. Hurricane Beryl, a Category 5 storm, barreled through the Caribbean in early July causing extensive destruction to homes and other structures in northern Grenada and Grenada’s sister islands, Petite Martinique and Carriacou.

“I am so happy to be a part of SGU, and I’m proud to be a Grenadian,” said Dexton St. Bernard, DVM ’21, MSC ’23, an instructor of parasitology at SGU and part of the responding veterinary team. “We didn’t only save animals. We saved livelihoods.”

Read How SVM Aided Grenada’s Animals and Communities Post-Hurricane Beryl

 

 

Dr. Cuesta Amado standing next to a horse

3. SVM Grad Works Dream Job Caring for Racehorses

SVM graduate, Adrianna Cuesta Amado, DVM ’21, treats some of the most formidable athletes in the country. Her patients? Racehorses.

She says she chose SGU for its fully accredited veterinary program with ample hands-on experience. Given her love of horses, Dr. Cuesta Amado was motivated by her peers and her family to specialize in equine medicine.

“SGU to me was the full package that offered many opportunities to work hard in a focused yet fun environment,” she said.

Read more about How an SVM Grad Turned Her Love for Horses into a Career

 

 

4. SVM Hosts Inaugural Career Fair for Students

SVM welcomed more than 130 attendees, including students, veterinary professionals, sponsors, and business leaders, to its first ever SVM Career Fair. The event allowed students to learn more about the various career paths they can choose after graduation as well as potential internship and mentorship opportunities. Students were also able to connect with practicing veterinarians and leaders in the field of veterinary medicine, as they solidify their career plans.

Read SGU Vet Students Explore Job Opportunities at Inaugural SVM Career Fair

 

 

photo of Dr. Christianne Shaw in front of campus

5. SVM Alumna Master of Ceremonies at White Coat Ceremony

Christianne Shaw, DVM ’12, served as the Master of Ceremonies for the January 2024 School of Veterinary Medicine White Coat Ceremony. A regular visitor of Grenada, she accepted a position as an assistant professor in the Small Animal Clinic this year.

Read SVM Alumni Spotlight: Dr. Christianne Shaw, recent White Coat Ceremony Master of Ceremonies

 

 

— Juliette Kimmins

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SGU Alumni Physicians & Friends Help 1,200+ Grenadian Patients in 2024

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SGU PHuN opthalmology clinic, Oct. 2024, Dr. Douglas Lavenburg, Dr. Mary Ratchford

Hundreds of Grenadian patients received critical healthcare treatment in 2024 thanks to the volunteerism of St. George’s University alumni physicians and friends.

Hundreds of Grenadian patients received critical healthcare treatment in 2024 thanks to the volunteerism of St. George’s University alumni physicians and friends.

More than 15 visiting physicians—including ophthalmologists, cardiologists, neurologists, endocrinologists, radiologists, orthopedic surgeons, and vascular surgeons—volunteered their time and expertise through the SGU Physician Humanitarian Network (SGU PHuN) with some even making multiple trips this year. They offered critical treatment and services to the people of Grenada. Their patients are unable to receive certain specialized medical care due to a lack of access to specialists and/or the funds to attain these required surgeries.

SGU PHuN continued to make a significant impact on Grenada and its communities in 2024. In total:

  • 1,282 patients were seen and/or treated;
  • 240 procedures (surgical and outpatient) were performed;
  • over $230,000 (USD) worth of supplies and equipment was donated; and
  • 7 CME talks conducted; these were attended both in person and virtually by local physicians and other healthcare providers.

Launched in 2008, the program is a joint initiative between SGU’s Office of Institutional Advancement, the Office of Alumni Affairs, and the Office of the Provost that facilitates visits of alumni physicians and other volunteer physicians to Grenada. These medical missions provide much-needed care to the people of Grenada and are in close coordination with the Grenada General Hospital and Grenada’s Ministry of Health.

“SGU-PHuN captures the spirit of the SGU community and its graduates in a very direct way,” according to Brendon LaGrenade, EdD, vice provost for Institutional Advancement and director of Alumni Affairs. “Our physician alumni continue to return to the island to deliver a vast array of voluntary specialty medical care. The value in these programs is not measured in the millions of dollars in donations and services delivered but more so in the lives of the individuals positively impacted.”

Cataract surgery was a top priority for the SGU PHuN this year.

“Due to the pandemic, a lack of specialist equipment and personnel, and high cost, there is a long waiting list for cataract surgery. For this reason, the SGU PHuN set a lofty goal of completing 100 cataract procedures for 2024,” Dr. LaGrenade said. “We are proud to say that we achieved 106 cataract surgeries through the generosity of physicians who traveled here to help the people of Grenada.”

Former SGU-student and New Jersey-based ophthalmologist Dr. Bernard Spier kicked off the cataract mission in February, performing 38 surgeries. In October, a collaborative ophthalmology mission spearheaded by Dr. Mary Ratchford with Vision Health International, performed 68 surgeries.

According to Dr. Spier, he chose to donate his time and skills to the Grenadian people because it is “a basic act of human kindness.”

“I have a special place in my heart for Grenada because that’s where I got my start in medicine,” said Dr. Spier. “Grenada gave me an opportunity to become a doctor. If I hadn’t gone to Grenada, I would’ve done something else [besides medicine].”

Dr. Throl Mason, Dr. Bernard Spier, TracyAnn Frederick, Dr. Brendon La Grenade, Dr. Zachary Mendelson (Left to right)

(Left to right) Dr. Throl Mason, Dr. Bernard Spier, TracyAnn Frederick, Dr. Brendon La Grenade, and Dr. Zachary Mendelson during an ophthalmology clinic in March 2024.

Other ophthalmologists who also donated their services this year included:

  • Roger Turbin (oculoplastic/neuro-ophthalmologist)
  • Fred Lambrou (retina and diabetic eye program)
  • Michael Gray (pediatric ophthalmologist)
Ms. TracyAnn Frederick, Ms. Payge Lipscomb, Dr. Michael Gray, Ms. Leigh Taylor Langdon (Left to right)

Visiting physicians—including ophthalmologists, cardiologists, neurologists, endocrinologists, radiologists, orthopedic surgeons, and vascular surgeons—volunteered their time through SGU PHuN.

SGU-PHuN also had visits from the following physician specialists in 2024:

Cardiology

  • Anthony Tramontano, MD ’99
  • Amita Dharawat, MD ’06
  • Vineet Dua, MD ’96
  • Tara Jarreau, MD ’06
  • Pravin Patil, MD ’04
  • Jason Finkelstein, MD ’99 (interventional cardiologist)

Neurology

  • Richard Mikilitus, MD ’90

Endocrinology

  • Dwight Matthias, MD ’92

Radiology

  • Randy Becker, MD ’00

Orthopedic Surgery

  • Dr. Karl Blum, former SGU student

Vascular Access

  • Dr. Christian Rodriguez

“Thank you to all who contributed to this very important mission,” Dr. La Grenade said. “We look forward to making an even bigger impact in 2025.”

SGU alumni who are interested in returning to Grenada to participate in the SGU PHuN program should contact aa-som@sgu.edu.

 

— Laurie Chartorynsky

 

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SGU Holds First-Ever Tech Expo

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From displaying the latest advancements in virtual reality to exploring the benefits of high-tech simulation labs used for educational purposes, St. George’s University recently held its first-ever Technology Exposition Week on campus.

More than 250 members of the SGU community attended the week-long event, which took place from October 28 to November 2, in which participants were able to engage in interactive sessions presented by a variety of SGU departments to highlight the University’s technology offerings.

“Technology has been modifying and redefining the face of education for years now and our goal is to provide our students with the knowledge and skills to navigate these new learning environments,” said Dr. David Twum-Barimah, chair of the Committee for Technology-Based Teaching and Learning (CTTL) and director of Student Campus Facilities. “The purpose of the SGU Tech Expo was to focus on technology and innovation applications at the University and to share, learn, and transfer those tools among the community.”

Highlights from the Tech Expo included:

  • A presentation by SGU’s medical illustrators, which create visual images that help explain complex medical information;
  • An interactive display of the latest tech used in virtual reality and 3D printing applications within medical education;
  • Tours of the School of Medicine and School of Veterinary Medicine simulation labs;
  • A presentation by SGU’s Department of Educational Services on technology in education;
  • The School of Arts and Sciences IT presentation and display; and
  • A tour of the SGU Command Center.

 

“Through the introduction of the SGU Tech Expo Week, the campus community was able to physically connect with a variety of different technologies on display before them,” added Dr. Twum-Barimah. “By participating in a series of engaging events, attendees were able to explore how technology is influencing and transforming their fields of interest and how it can be applied in order to drive innovation forward in a rapidly evolving world.”

The Tech Expo was hosted by SGU’s Committee for Technology-Based Teaching and Learning (CTTL). The committee, which consists of faculty and students from each school as well as members of staff, administration, and the Office of Information Technology, aims to explore technology-based solutions for teaching and learning experiences to further enhance the academic technology used by the SGU community.

Didn’t attend? Check out our top photos from the SGU Tech Expo 2024. 

 

  • Participant using virtual reality device.

  • Close up of virtual reality device.

  • Virtual reality device user.

  • SAS IT students display autonomous mobile robots.

  • SAS IT student showcases computer components.

  • 3D printing machine.

  • Close up of 3D printer.

  • SAS IT students display 3D renders using blender application.

  • SAS IT student highlights another 3D render using blender software.

  • Participant utilizing high fidelity simulation mannequin in the SOM sim lab.

  • Phlebotomy demonstration in the SOM simulation lab.

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– Ray-Donna Peters

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