Reflecting on 2021: 5 stories that illuminated the School of Medicine community

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From students matching into highly competitive residency positions to alumni, students, staff, and faculty mobilizing to help Grenada combat the COVID-19 pandemic, the St. George’s University School of Medicine community made an enduring mark in 2021.

In a year full of significant news, these stories made our top highlights:

These and other stories defined the School of Medicine in 2021, underscoring the University’s aim to provide a rewarding education for students who aspire to become impactful health professionals around the world.

To read more SOM news stories of 2021, visit the SGU website.

 

 

– Laurie Chartorynsky

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Outstanding Achievements Celebrated During SVM Awards Ceremony

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The School of Veterinary Medicine hosted its bi-annual SVM Awards Ceremony honoring students, faculty, and staff for their outstanding achievements during the fall term. Twenty-four different sets of awards were presented during the virtual event, to students who demonstrated exceptional academic achievement, professionalism, and work ethic as well as to faculty and staff who demonstrated remarkable service and commitment to veterinary education. 

“It’s such an important aspect of the School of Veterinary Medicine to honor the very special achievements of students, faculty, and staff,” said Dr. Neil Olson, dean of the SVM. “With all of the challenges presented while learning during the current global pandemic, what better way to lift the spirits than to acknowledge the efforts and sacrifices they’ve made to make this program and our students successful.” 

In addition to Dean Olson, Dr. Glen Jacobs, provost of SGU also addressed the online crowd. He shared his heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and expressed his hope to attend the next award ceremony in person. “This is our fourth virtual awards ceremony, but I cannot wait for it to be held face-to-face in Grenada and we can all celebrate together again.” 

The ceremony also recognized 24 new inductees into the Alpha Delta Chapter of the Phi Zeta Honor Society—11 from Term 5, 13 from Term 6, and three faculty members. Seven students were awarded Dean Olson’s Award for Academic Excellence, which is given to Term 3 students with the highest GPA (as of the end of Term 2) and who embody professionalism. 

“It’s such a joy and pleasure to bring everyone together to celebrate excellence amongst our faculty, staff, and students,” said Dr. Anne Marie Corrigan, associate dean of academics, during her closing remarks. “It truly shows the passion and love for what we do on a daily basis in veterinary medicine and that you’ve worked so hard to be successful.” 

SGU Island Veterinary Scholars Program (Boehringer Ingelheim)  

Allison Kearney, Adrian Jones 

Outstanding Colleague Awards 

Term 1: Miller Young 

Term 2: Giana Gigantino 

Term 3: Molly Ginn 

Term 4: Leandra Margolies 

Term 5: Sheriden Nicholes 

Term 6: Brittney Kilgore, Adriana Kalaska, Marc Bremmer 

Dean Olson’s Award for Academic Excellence 

Selina Nackley, Amanda Ernst, Natalie Hollo, Anca Gagliardo, Logan Bernstein, Adrian Jones, Maureen Kruhlak 

Adrienne Lotton Memorial Award 

Brian Greene 

Zoetis Awards

Zoetis Award for Research Excellence: Daniel Fitzpatrick    

Zoetis Revolution Awards of Excellence 

Small Animal Internal Medicine: Gemma Carter 

Small Animal Surgery: Adriana Kalaska 

Equine Medicine and Surgery: Ashley Law 

Food Animal Medicine and Surgery: Tiara Key 

Scholarship of Service Award: Yvonne White 

Student Research Award: Madison Kucinick 

SVM Alumni Scholarship award: Maggie Macpherson 

Giant Paws Giant Hearts Foundation “Hercules” Award  

Matthew Pickens 

PAWS Recognition for Term 6 Facilitators 

Maggie Macpherson, Erika Brewer, Gemma Carter, Marc Bremmer, Priyanka Mehta, Luca Mak, Thomas Conley, Corinne Ross, Jessie Whitfield, Louis Carusillo, Colleen Courtney, Vianca Hernandez 

Veterinary Public Health Committee 

One Health One Medicine Community Leader Award: Ashley Wyman 

Student Organization Awards

The Feral Cat Project  

Most Valuable Trapper: Elizabeth Peck 

Most Valuable Faculty/Staff: Imika Pascal 

SGUSVM Large Animal Society 

Most Valuable LAS Member Award: Bianca Mower 

 SVM Wellness Committee 

Wellness MVP Award: Dr. Adria Rodriguez 

AAARF: Angels in Armor Animal Rescue Fund 

Friends of AAARF Awards: Sarah Mikhail, Taryn Williamson  

SCACVIM: Student Chapter of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine 

Internal Medicine MVP Award: Bethany Sakowski 

SVECCS:  Student Chapter of the Emergency and Critical Care Society 

Outstanding Member Award: Sisina Macchiarelli 

Outstanding Clinician Award: Dr. Flavia Restitutti 

SNP: Spay Neuter Pothound  

Pothound Student Hero Award: Lauren Abrams 

Pothound Faculty/Staff Hero Award: Quacy Matthew 

SCACVP: Student Chapter of the American College of Veterinary Pathologists  

The MVP (Most Valuable Pathologist) Award: Taryn Paquet 

EWS: Exotics and Wildlife Society 

Most Valuable Primate Award: Brianna Jacobs 

VBMA: Veterinary Business Management Association 

Impact Award: Gemma Carter 

The Pinckney Parasitology Award 

Letty Bonilla 

DES Recognition Awards 

Brin Cerbone, Kisten Braccili, Cassandra Morales, Angelica Melara, Daniel Ingram, Courtney Kennedy 

Alpha Delta Chapter of the Society of Phi Zeta 

Fall 2021 Inductees 

Term 5 Inductees

Ireny Barsoum, Natasha Brown, Rachel Bryan, Karli Collins, Alex Chang, Karine Comeau, Kayla Duncan, Chloe Eaton, Priscilla Leinberger, Glenna Maur, Lauren Pierce 

 Term 6 Inductees

Sarah Beckner, Remington Campbell, Joelle Chami, Iesha Clouden, Thomas Cronly, Sara Hyman, Jennifer Klapko, Ashley Law, Danica McGuire, Erin Rickey, Alyssa Ungemach, Jessie Whitfield, Bahareh Ziai 

Phi Zeta Specialty Faculty Recognition for Their Work in Promoting Research and Scholarship  

Veterinary faculty: Dr. Stacey Byers, Dr. Satesh Bidaisee 

Honorary faculty: Ms. Elizabeth Peach 

SGU SVM Outstanding Staff Awards 

Technical staff: Keshia John  

Administrative staff: Cindy Edwards  

Hill’s Golden Apple Teaching Award 

Dr. Stacey Byers 

 

 

 

– Ray-Donna Peters 

 

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5 Stories that Chronicled the School of Veterinary Medicine in 2021

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From students matching into highly competitive postgraduate positions to alumni from all different backgrounds making a difference in their patients’ lives worldwide, St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine students, faculty, and alumni made their mark in 2021.

In a year full of exciting news, these stories made our top highlights:

  • 2021 SVM graduates showed their resiliency and determination as they completed their studies during a global health crisis, joining SGU’s network of more than 2,100 Doctors of Veterinary Medicine around the world.Read: 2021 class of new veterinarians recognized for their resilience and perseverance
  • Many of these graduates took the next step in their careers by matching into residency and internship positions such as diagnostic imaging, oncology, emergency medicine, neurology/neurosurgery, and others.Read: SGU vets rank high in VIRMP match
  • Earlier this year, Maria Coppola became only the second-ever SVM student to assume presidency of SGU’s Student Government Association. Her aspirations while in the position were to “influence other SGA representatives to have a strong voice and to continue to work for positive change on campus.”
    Read: Coppola becomes second-ever vet student serves as SGA president
  • When it comes to the ongoing COVID pandemic, the School of Veterinary Medicine sprang into action last year becoming Grenada’s national testing site at the onset of the pandemic. SGU furthered that initiative by developing a state-of-the-art diagnostic molecular facility on campus that will provide timely and appropriate diagnostic services for the University and potentially the region and serve as a research facility for emerging and re-emerging vector-borne diseases and other infections.Read: On-campus lab strengthens diagnostics, education, and research in Grenada
  • Minorities have been historically underrepresented in the veterinary profession. To that end, three graduates of the School of Veterinary Medicine shared their perspectives on the issue of diversity in the field and how they plan to make a difference by paying it forward.Read: SGU grads changing the face of veterinary medicine

     

These and other stories defined the School of Veterinary Medicine in 2021, underscoring the University’s aim to enhance student success and grow the number of animal health professionals around the world.

To read more SVM news stories of 2021, visit the SGU website.

 

– Laurie Chartorynsky

 

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SAS grad becomes Grenada board’s first female CEO

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Leadership has always been a strength for St. George’s University graduate Afia Joseph, from her time as a Grenada Junior Achiever to her current role—chief executive officer of the Grenada Marketing & National Importing Board (MNIB).

As the organization’s first-ever woman CEO, Ms. Joseph, BSc ’08, MBA ’14, heads up the leading purchaser, retailer, and exporter of traditional and local agro-products on the island. She is responsible for the marketing and national export of agricultural produce, and management of the importation and supply of specified commodities to Grenada. She also plays a supporting role in the development and expansion of the country’s agricultural sector.

Nine months into her new role, Ms. Joseph opens up about what she hopes to accomplish at MNIB, the characteristics of a good leader, and offers advice to those seeking higher education.

St. George’s University: How does it feel to be the MNIB’s first-ever female CEO?

Afia Joseph: I feel very privileged to secure this role yet humbled by this responsibility. With great power comes great responsibility. I hope that my appointment sends a signal to the youth in Grenada to get involved in the development of our country. My appointment also confirms to women that there is a clear path to their goals once there is determination and commitment.

 

“My role has the ability to influence change and improve the agriculture sector. My aim is to facilitate further development of the agro-processing industry in Grenada and play a key role in the expansion of national exports, which will benefit many Grenadians. “

 

SGU: What excites you most about your new job? 

AJ: My role has the ability to influence change and improve the agriculture sector. My aim is to facilitate further development of the agro-processing industry in Grenada and play a key role in the expansion of national exports, which will benefit many Grenadians.

SGU: What makes you a good leader?

AJ: My capacity to manage challenging and otherwise difficult environments with a sense of calm resolve while producing results. Also, critical for leadership is the ability to manage ego, maintain humility, see the value in others, and understand that in order to lead others one must first learn to lead oneself.

SGU: How well do you feel that SGU prepared you for the next step in your journey?

AJ: I felt thoroughly prepared by SGU to enter the workforce—equipped with the soft skills, confidence, tenacity, and emotional intelligence necessary to succeed. The business management program promoted success through teamwork, which is critical to becoming a leader worth following.

Overall, my experience at SGU has had a profoundly positive impact on my career development. Along with the experience attained, both my Master of Business Administration and Bachelor of Arts in accounting have positioned me for many opportunities and will continue to do so. The principles and knowledge I acquired have supported all my leadership roles and allowed me to excel.

SGU: Was a career in business something you always wanted to pursue?

AJ: Fortunately, I did not choose my field; my field chose me. I was nurtured and nudged into the direction where I can truly give of myself by making a meaningful contribution to the world through my work.

SGU: What advice would you give someone on a similar journey?

AJ: For anyone contemplating whether it is the right time to pursue higher education, I would say that it’s better to be prepared for an opportunity and not have one than to have an opportunity and not be prepared. It is with this in mind that I continue to grow and learn while expecting greater things for myself and others.

 

– Ray-Donna Peters

SAS grad on data analysis: “Nothing brings me more joy”

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Data, data analysis, reporting—they all came natural to Donella Telesford, BSc ’09, whether it was during computer courses, mathematics, or any class that required critical thinking and analytical skills.

Looking back on her academic career now, as St. George’s University’s associate director of University Surveys and Qualtrics brand administrator, Ms. Telesford realizes she was on a quick path to serving as a leader in survey research at her alma mater. She has been a crucial asset to University operations, including as SGU navigated the COVID-19 pandemic over the past two years.

“Nothing brings me more joy than being able to utilize my skills, expertise, and knowledge of Qualtrics to demonstrate the capabilities of the software,” Ms. Telesford said. “I enjoy creating complex surveys and systems that can help other users manage and streamline their tasks.”

 

“Nothing brings me more joy than being able to utilize my skills, expertise, and knowledge of Qualtrics to demonstrate the capabilities of the software. I enjoy creating complex surveys and systems that can help other users manage and streamline their tasks.”

 

In her current role, Ms. Telesford leads the monitoring and approval of various surveys to ensure that all policies are adhered to. In addition, she is responsible for the design, administration, analysis, and reporting of SGU Student Satisfaction Surveys, which are sent to more than 5,000 students across all four schools each term. While helping to achieve institutional goals, Ms. Telesford works closely with the deans, faculty, and administrators to create these surveys, provide general support to over 500 Qualtrics users, and work on special projects for the provost’s office.

As a first-generation college graduate, Ms. Telesford got her entry into the workforce at SGU, where she held her first job as a registration assistant in the Office of Enrollment Planning, now Office of the University Registrar. After completing SGU’s internship program at GRENLEC, Grenada’s sole electricity company, she jumped at the chance to join SGU full time in the housing department as a data entry specialist, sparking her interest in her future field. She later transitioned to the position of SAS Peer Learning Group coordinator followed by an appointment as coordinator of the Student Support and Administrative Office within the Department of Educational Services.

“My experience at SGU as a student and now an employee has been amazing,” shared Ms. Telesford. “During my time as a student, I met friends who have motivated me, mentors who have guided me, and professors who have taught me a great deal. SGU has also been instrumental in my career development, providing numerous professional development sessions, as well as access to high-quality resources free of cost to its employees. These sessions have had a great impact on me professionally, academically, and personally. I feel extremely prepared for the next challenge and advancement opportunity.”

This next challenge came during the current COVID-19 pandemic when Ms. Telesford was appointed as the SGU Contact Tracing Team Lead. As part of several task forces formed to assist SGU students in Grenada and abroad, she designed, distributed, and reported on several surveys that captured pertinent information needed for decision-making by the University’s leadership. Additionally, to assist in her new role, Ms. Telesford completed the Johns Hopkins COVID-19 Contact Tracing course that not only provided her with the knowledge to be effective in her role but also helped her host training sessions and create resources for new team members.

“In this role, I managed a team of eight people who conducted contact tracing, wellness checks, scheduled testing, and arranged medical clearances through the Ministry of Health for more than 700 contacts and cases. Working closely with stakeholders, I also created the SGU COVID-19 Case and Contact Tracing Protocols. Although this is a challenging role, it has provided me with the opportunity to serve SGU and give back to the Grenada community, while assisting the MOH with reducing the spread of COVID-19 in Grenada.”

Currently, Ms. Telesford has completed seven Qualtrics certification courses assessing her ability to understand Qualtrics XM principles, confidently execute on research projects, and report insights using the Qualtrics platform. In the upcoming months, she will be preparing to take the Qualtrics Level 1 certification exam, which will be the first step towards validating her expertise as a certified Qualtrics XM professional.

“All of my past experiences at SGU have prepared me for the work that I do today,” stated Ms. Telesford. “Transferring the many skills and knowledge I’ve acquired throughout the years has allowed me to gather valuable feedback and identify areas of concern, so that I can better serve students by providing the academic and non-academic support needed to improve student success. My SGU experience has also enabled me to view collaboration as a learning experience that fosters an open, connected, and engaged work environment.”

 

— Ray-Donna Peters

Research Day returns to SGU

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After a two-year hiatus since a record-breaking turnout in 2019, the True Blue campus was once again buzzing with excitement as faculty, students, and local and regional visitors arrived at Open and Upper Modica Hall for the 19th SGU Research Day and Phi Zeta Research Emphasis Day on October 23.

For the first time, the event featured both in-person and virtual presentations. A faculty panel made up of judges from SGU and outside of the University reviewed the presentations and chose winners for each category based on originality, scientific merit, and level of involvement. All winners (complete list below) was presented with a plaque at an awards ceremony held on November 9 at Open Modica Hall.

“This year’s Research Day/Phi Zeta Research Emphasis Day was unique in its hybrid delivery, which facilitated participation by faculty and students around the world,” said Dr. Calum Macpherson, director of research at St. George’s University. “Many thanks to all who presented, attended, or assisted with this year’s Research Day and made the event such a success.”

All told, 135 individuals attended Research Day on campus while 67 registered online. Faculty and students from all four schools at SGU contributed 55 oral presentations—21 of which were virtual—and 51 poster presentations, with 25 presenting online.

Highlights included Grenada’s chief medical officer, Shawn Charles, MD ’17, MIB ’07, MBA ’08, who was accompanied by the Ministry of Health’s senior medical officer, Myanna Charles, MD ’16, MPH ’21, in delivering the first of over a dozen presentations on the COVID-19 experience in Grenada. Other COVID-related topics included SGU’s contribution to screening and surveillance, vaccination and vaccine administration in Grenada, as well as reasons for vaccine hesitancy.

Best Faculty Oral Presentation

  1. Anne Marie Corrigan – SVM
  2. Shaniza Haniff – SOM

Best Student Oral Presentation

  1. Madison Kucinick – SVM
  2. Daniel Francis – SAS
  3. Caitlyn Hatcher – SOM

Best Faculty Poster Presentation

  1. Firdous Khan – SVM
  2. Karla Farmer-Diaz – SOM

Best Student Poster Presentation

  1. Ireny Barsoum – SVM
  2. Melissa Joseph – SOM

Best Psychological Services Center Presentation: Dr. Cecilia Rougier

Best Department of Educational Services Presentation: Oluwatosin Omobolanle Arubuolawe

Best WINDREF Presentation: Tania Khan

– Ray-Donna Peters

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Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Women in Medicine Students Weigh In

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October is Breast Cancer Awareness, an annual international campaign by major breast cancer charities to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer.

As the world’s most prevalent cancer, according to the World Health Organization—it’s not uncommon to know a mother, a sister, a grandmother, aunt, or friend who has been affected by the disease.

At St. George’s University, the student organization, Women in Medicine, dedicates a month of activities toward the campaign, culminating with its annual 5K Pink Run. This year’s event on October 24 was held both in-person for those in Grenada as well as virtually—all part of an ongoing effort to enhance the quality of care for women battling reproductive cancers in Grenada. See the full photo album of the run in Grenada on SGU’s Facebook page.

Members of the Women in Medicine club recently shared what Breast Cancer Awareness Month meant to them.

 

Amrita Pandey, WIM co-president, School of Medicine, Term 5

“I lost my grandmother to breast cancer when I was very little. That was during a time when research and education on breast cancer was very minimal, so I believe it is important to take the time this month to educate ourselves, support those affected, and contribute to the ongoing research. As a student, my role this month is to empower the women around me to educate themselves on regular screenings, self-exams, and reducing their risks of breast cancer.”

 

Katie Stadheim, WIM co-president, School of Medicine, Term 4

“Over the last few weeks, it has been amazing to see our strong student body come together to support strong women impacted by breast cancer in some way. We all have a similar goal of increasing awareness and making a change, as we know simple acknowledgment is not enough.”

 

Taylor Schrunk, School of Medicine, Term 4

“Breast cancer awareness is very important to discuss when it comes to women’s health. By bringing awareness to the topic, we can try to educate women on the signs and symptoms to look for, which can lead to early detection of the cancer. An added benefit in bringing more voices into a discussion is the opportunity to discover new ideas regarding treatment options and possibly, in the future, a cure for breast cancer.”

 

Hope VanBuren, School of Medicine, Term 4

“During this month, as it is every month, it is so important that we recognize all of the strong women in the world fighting cancers and everyone working to better their treatments.”

 

Nicole Centazzo, School of Medicine, Term 5

“As a woman and future physician, I stand with all the women and their families that have gone through and that are still fighting against breast cancer. Let’s raise awareness on women’s health!”

 

Chanel Reid, School of Medicine, Term 4

“This quote says it best: ‘Communities and countries and ultimately the world are only as strong as the health of their women.’ – Michelle Obama”

 

Michelle Lui, School of Medicine, Term 4

“With Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I am grateful for the opportunity to co-host the Breast Exam Seminar, presented by the Women in Medicine Club, to help spread awareness and educate on the importance of breast self-exams in prevention and early detection of breast cancer with the Grenadian community.”

 

Emily Dale-Johnson, School of Medicine, Term 5

“One in eight women in the US will develop an invasive breast cancer over the course of their lifetime and, thankfully, I have not been affected by breast cancer. Yet. As women, the statistics are not in our favor and I worry about which of my family or friends will be the unlucky one. Every year, October serves as a reminder to do our screening tests, improve our overall health, and encourage other women to do the same.”

 

 

– Istra Bell and Laurie Chartorynsky

– Photos courtesy of Yuri Marryshow

 

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SGU Supply Donation Greatly Enhances COVID-19 Relief Efforts 

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St. George’s University, its alumni, and the Government of Grenada have banded together to expedite the delivery of critical healthcare supplies to support the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.

A collaborative effort between SGU and its network has secured physician support and medical and pharmaceutical supplies to assist physicians, nurses, and other healthcare personnel working on the ground. Among these supplies were 100 oxygen cylinders, which are already in use, providing relief to recovering COVID-19 patients.

“With all my heart, I thank those who have helped bring these supplies to the country and to the people,” said Dr. Charles Modica, chancellor of SGU. “Grenada is our home, and we must do everything we can to keep everyone safe and healthy. I am so proud of the role our faculty, staff, students, and alumni have played in providing COVID-19 care in Grenada, whether it’s administering state-of-the-art testing, helping patients toward recovery, or advocating for the safety and benefits of the vaccine.”

SGU continues to strengthen the COVID-19 response effort by providing procurement and facilitating the shipment of large quantities of supplies, and delivering education and physician support through its alumni physician and friends network. More supplies and support, including increased liquid oxygen capacity, cylinders, oxygen concentrators, personal protection equipment, and physician and nursing support, will be arriving in the coming days and weeks.

“Through our close collaboration with the alumni-led Grenada COVID Crisis Group (GCCG), the Ministry of Health, and our graduates, we have been able to carefully assess needs on the ground and facilitate effective implementation,” said Brendon La Grenade, vice provost at SGU. 

 

“Grenada is our home, and we must do everything we can to keep everyone safe and healthy.”

 

As COVID cases increased in Grenada, straining its healthcare system, support from the SGU community came from both on the island and from afar. School of Arts and Sciences nursing students were among the first to help in the administration of testing and vaccines throughout the six parishes. School of Medicine students have volunteered at mobile testing and vaccination clinics organized by Grenada’s Ministry of Health, providing results and educational material, monitoring vaccine recipients for any adverse reactions, and upholding social distancing mandates for those waiting for the vaccine.  

“We are grateful for SGU’s continued generous commitment to support healthcare services in our nation,” added Dr. Carol McIntosh, director of hospital services at the Ministry of Health. “We are proud to work in partnership with SGU as we manage the devastating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and strive to improve our health services in general.”  

In addition, alumni have rallied to support Grenada through offering in-person and telemedicine care, and financial contributions totaling more than $100,000 through the GCCG GoFundMe page. 

“What’s most important to acknowledge is that we are in this together,” Dr. Modica said. “St. George’s University and the Government of Grenada are working toward a solution, and we’ll come to that solution together, just as we always have.” 

 

– Brett Mauser 

 

 

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9 Mental Health Tips for Students to Focus on Now

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The COVID pandemic has had a significant impact on many people’s mental health. Dr. Adria Rodriguez, associate professor in the School of Veterinary Medicine Small Animal Medicine and Surgery and Professional Development, shared helpful ways for students to manage stress and anxiety as a result of the pandemic.

Adria Rodriguez, associate professor, School of Veterinary Medicine

Through the Wellness Domain of SVM’s Professional Development Curriculum, students learn beneficial steps they can take in managing this constant change, stress, and anxiety. These steps include:

  • Remember your ultimate goal and why you are at SGU. Visualize where you will be at the end of this tremendous personal and professional growth journey.
  • Embrace a growth mindset. Learn from opportunities and/or challenges you may encounter along this journey.
  • Be kind to yourself by practicing self-compassion. And be sure to be kind to others who may be struggling inwardly.
  • Practice mindfulness in everything that you do, which will contribute to your growth in self-awareness self-regulation, social awareness, and relationship management.
  • Replace the words “I should do…” with “I choose to do…”
  • Practice gratitude. This will result in the attraction of more opportunities in life for which you can be grateful.
  • Spend time with loved ones (in-person or virtually).
  • Make time for hobbies and activities which replenish your soul.
  • Ask for help if necessary.

What resources are available for SVM students to seek additional help?

  • Counseling services are available via the Psychological Services Center. Telehealth counseling is also available for SVM students via the BCS Group.
  • You can also reach out to your faculty advisor, professional development faculty mentor, course directors, or any faculty/staff with whom you feel comfortable talking to as well as the Dean of Students office.
  • The SVM Wellness Committee provides different activities to enhance the students’ physical, spiritual, and emotional well-being.
  • There are many student organizations that enhance students’ intellectual well-being.
  • There are also multiple smartphone apps that can help with meditation, breathing, mood monitoring, and other stress-reduction techniques such as PSC’s WellTrack.

 

– Laurie Chartorynsky

SGU Nursing Students Lead Volunteer Efforts in the Community

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Photo courtesy of SGU Nursing Student Association

Historically, nurses have always volunteered to serve during times of crisis—often traveling to wherever they were needed the most. Much in the same way, many students in the St. George’s University School of Arts and Sciences Nursing Program are also answering the call to serve—volunteering to travel to rural villages to work at mobile testing and vaccination clinics islandwide.

Working closely with Grenada’s Ministry of Health, the Department of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences within SAS, and in collaboration with the Student Government Association, has become the official liaison to the MOH—playing an integral role in the organization, planning, and gathering of SGU student volunteers to work at various pop-up clinics.

“I made the decision to volunteer for two reasons—my strong desire to help provide much-needed assistance to my future colleagues, and my love for this noble profession,” stated Shawndy Duncan, a third-year nursing student at SGU. “During my experience in the field, we did encounter many that were skeptical about taking the vaccine. However, we took the time to explain the benefits and why it was so important to get vaccinated now more than ever. I believe that what we’re doing here will have a positive impact on the Grenadian public.”

 

“Nursing student volunteers have the unique opportunity to practice both their science and art (by) engaging in hands-on learning in the field.”

 

For the past several weeks, nearly half of the department’s 110 students has volunteered during the government’s current restriction of movements on the weekends. At the MOH’s request, SGU nursing students have been serving at healthcare clinics, mobile vaccination sites, and homes for the elderly.

“As an aspiring nurse, I didn’t hesitate to volunteer my services,” said second-year nursing student Casira Peters. “I was happy to go wherever I was needed. I wanted to help in any way I could to ensure that Grenadians got the proper support they required. Volunteering allows me to not only work alongside dedicated healthcare professionals, but it also enables me to develop my communication and practical skills. And even though I’m not a licensed nurse yet, I’m getting valuable experience to make me an even better one.”

SGU nursing students volunteer at one of the Ministry of Health’s mobile vaccination clinics in Grenada.

In addition to assisting physicians with administering COVID-19 tests and vaccinations, and providing results and educational material, the student volunteers have also been functioning as clinic nurses, applying wound dressings, and performing blood sugar checks—working more days and longer hours, often side by side with members of their own communities.

“Nursing student volunteers have the unique opportunity to practice both their science and art,” said Dr. Jennifer Solomon, chair and director of the Department of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, SGU. “Engaging in hands-on learning in the field, may arguably make them even better nurses. Additionally, volunteering brings benefits not only to the people being helped, but also to the volunteers themselves, such as improving self-esteem, increasing confidence, and providing a sense of purpose. It fills me with pride as the Grenadian people get to see how the SGU nursing program is community and locally centered. I am humbled by our students as they continue to selflessly volunteer in their home communities.”

Nursing students and Dr. Jen Solomon, chair and director of the Department of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, SGU, pose for a picture. Photo courtesy of SGU Nursing Student Association

St. George’s University School of Arts and Sciences Nursing Program features many aspects of interdisciplinary learning and teaching. Uniquely structured, it allows the students to be taught by professors from both the Schools of Medicine and Arts and Sciences, as well as visiting professors from outside of Grenada. Their training experience will include working at the General Hospital, lab work at SGU’s Simulation Center, and community work. At the end of their training and with the completion of their regional and international licensing exams, the students will become fully fledged registered nurses as approved by the Caribbean Nursing Council.

 

— Ray-Donna Peters

 

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