Northumbria University is named United Kingdom’s University of the Year 2022

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As St. George’s University and Northumbria University, in Newcastle, UK, celebrate the 15-year anniversary of their partnership, the latter has received a significant distinction—they were named the UK’s University of the Year 2022 in the prestigious Times Higher Education Awards.

“We are thrilled to congratulate Northumbria University on this accomplishment,” said Dr. James Coey, SGU’s dean of basic sciences in the UK. “We at SGU have seen the University’s excellence firsthand, as have our students. The value of our partnership cannot be understated, and this recognition is proof of that.”

The Times Higher Education awards recognize exceptional performance and “bold, imaginative, and innovative initiatives” that advanced a higher education institution’s reputation during the 2020/21 academic year. According to their announcement, Northumbria credits its recent research advancements with its success. In the 2021 report results published by Research Excellence Framework (REF), which measures the quality and strength of research across UK universities, the University moved up 27 places to 23 from 50.

A 15-YEAR HISTORY OF COLLABORATION

The partnership between SGU and Northumbria began in January 2007 and has since welcomed more than 2,000 medical students to spend up to three years of their preclinical or medical degree program in the UK.  The partnership provides students with the opportunity to begin either a four-, five-, or six-year MD pathway at SGU. The pathways are aligned and equivalent to those delivered in Grenada but allow students to study in and experience a different healthcare and education environment.

The inception of the partnership came about from SGU’s second Vice Chancellor, Dr. Keith B. Taylor (1989-1998). Dr. Taylor’s vision for international expansion was spurred by the reality of a shrinking world of medical education, which led not only to the growth of St. George’s University but also the creation of the Windward Islands Research and Education Foundation (WINDREF) in 1994.

“So much good has come out of our partnership with Northumbria University,” added Dr. Coey. “We look forward to continuing to strengthen that partnership together and provide a world-leading medical education for our students.”

To learn more about SGU’s partnership with NU, visit our website.

—Sarah Stoss

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5 tips when applying to international medical schools: SGU featured in Forbes article

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What do aspiring doctors need to know when considering which international medical schools to apply to? A recent Forbes article shared crucial insight and advice for prospective international medical students.

While it’s no secret that medical school admission rates, particularly at US schools, are lower than ever—just 38% of applicants received an acceptance letter last year—aspiring doctors shouldn’t let these numbers discourage them from pursuing their dreams, the article stated.

US medical schools are not the only pathway to a career in medicine: international medical schools have proven a viable option, while still allowing the physician to practice medicine in the US.

“International medical schools tend to look not just at a student’s MCAT score, GPA or shadowing hours,” St. George’s University President Dr. G. Richard Olds shared in the article. “We seek out qualified, well-rounded individuals who may not fit the traditional mold of a pre-med student because we know that their diverse experiences can make them exceptional doctors.”

Still it’s important to do your research before applying to any international medical school. Here are five key key criteria to keep in mind.

    • A university’s average GPA and MCAT scores of incoming students;
    • Financial aid availability;
    • A school’s accreditation status;
    • Curriculum that is styled after US medical schools;
    • Research and clinical opportunities.

Adding to the criteria listed, Dr. Olds recommends students investigate an institution’s USMLE pass rate and residency placement rate.

“A student’s future career as a doctor really starts with their medical school decision,” Olds said. “There are so many quality medical school options out there. Students just need to do their research to find them.”

 

 

Read the full article

 

 

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St. George’s University Announces Admissions Partnership with Christian Brothers University

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St. George’s University announced a new partnership today that will provide eligible students from Christian Brothers University with streamlined admissions to St. George’s School of Medicine or School of Veterinary Medicine.

“We’re thrilled to partner with Christian Brothers University to educate the next generation of doctors and veterinarians,” said Dr. G. Richard Olds, president emeritus of St. George’s University. “Both of these professions are facing shortages that pose a concerning threat to public health. Initiatives like this one will help us close those gaps, and we’re honored to work toward that goal alongside CBU.”

The partnership creates a “4+4” program, in which students spend four years at each institution. Those who wish to qualify must express interest while applying to CBU or while matriculating. Interested students must pursue a Bachelor of Science degree at CBU, complete all prerequisite coursework, maintain a strong GPA, and score competitively on relevant entrance exams. Interested veterinary students must also report at least 500 hours of animal experience alongside a veterinarian or animal-care professional.

St. George’s University will waive application fees for interested students and fast-track CBU applications during the admissions process. Students accepted into the medical program will receive a $10,000 scholarship. They will also be eligible for additional SGU scholarships and grants.

Those who enter the School of Medicine will be eligible to complete their first two years of study in Grenada, or they can complete their first year at Northumbria University in the United Kingdom and second year in Grenada. The following two years of clinical rotations will take place at St. George’s-affiliated hospitals in the United States or United Kingdom. Veterinary students will be eligible to complete three years of study in Grenada and their final clinical year within SGU’s network of 30-plus affiliates located in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Ireland, and the Netherlands.

“This partnership with St. George’s University provides a unique opportunity for high-achieving undergraduate students at Christian Brothers University who are interested in pursuing careers in medicine or veterinary medicine,” said Dr. James McGuffee, Dean of the CBU School of Sciences. “We are pleased to partner with St. George’s University as we nurture future graduates who will in turn use their advanced degrees to serve as medical doctors or doctors of veterinary medicine.”

 

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SGU President Dr. Richard Olds addresses physician shortage in Q&A with Healio

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In an article published by Healio, St. George’s University President Dr. Richard Olds addresses how international medical graduates can help solve the primary care physician shortage in the US. During the interview, Dr. Olds provides insight into the conditions that caused the shortage and how it has been made worse by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“COVID has also made this shortage worse since most primary care doctors support themselves in the outpatient area, and during the first year of the pandemic, about 10% of physicians closed their practices permanently,” Dr. Olds stated in the article. “Indeed, by 2034, the Association of American Medical Colleges estimates the US will face a shortage of up to 124,000 physicians.”

While the problem is growing, there are potential solutions, including educating more international medical graduates. International medical graduates are more likely to practice primary care in areas where the need for physicians is greatest, such as the rural US, and can offer the quality care needed to close the gap.

“Because U.S. medical school grads are not going into primary care or practicing in rural areas in large numbers, many international medical graduates have filled that gap,” according to Dr. Olds. “About 40% of the primary care doctors in the U.S. trained outside the states. At my university, 75% of our grads go into primary care fields while 25% specialize.”

Read the full article

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Reflecting on 2022: 5 stories that highlighted the School of Medicine community

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From commencement celebrations to students securing highly competitive residency positions to groundbreaking medical procedures pioneered by graduates, the St. George’s University School of Medicine community made its mark in 2022.

In a year full of significant news, these stories came out on top:

Commencement 2022

After two years of virtual celebrations, the School of Medicine celebrated its 41st commencement in June at the Arthur Ashe Stadium at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens, NY.

Despite the challenges of the COVID pandemic, SGU’s newest physicians joined a network of more than 20,000 alumni practicing in the United States and around the world.

View on Instagram: Relive the excitement of the SOM commencement ceremonies 

School of Medicine reaffirms accreditation

This fall, the accrediting body of SGU’s School of Medicine, the Grenada Medical and Dental Council (GMDC), was recognized by the World Federation of Medical Education (WFME) for the full 10 years through September 2032.

This recognition allows SGU students to continue to meet the standards set by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG), setting them up for success when applying for certification to participate in the National Residency Matching Program (NRMP).

What does it mean for students? Read:  Medical School Accreditation: Everything You Need to Know

Match Day 2022

For hundreds of SGU School of Medicine students, the wait was most certainly worth it as they found out where they will take the next step in their careers during residency training.

This year, SGU students matched into first-year residency positions across a variety of specialties throughout the US. Over the summer, they began residency programs in a range of highly competitive specialties, including neurology, emergency medicine, surgery, and more, and shared what it felt like to receive the positive news that they matched and how they felt about starting residency.

Read: Soon-To-Be Physicians Share Their Excitement On Match Day 2022 

Groundbreaking advancements in cardiology

Through the use of robotics, interventional cardiologist and Grenadian national Adam Bierzynski, MD ’11, is moving the field of interventional cardiology forward within outpatient settings. He was among the team who performed the first-ever outpatient robotic percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) at an ambulatory surgery center. Dr. Bierzynski shared with SGU why the procedure was groundbreaking, the potential life-saving capabilities of robotics within the cardiology field, and how his medical training set him up for success.

Read: Cardiologist From Grenada Pioneers Robotic Procedure In Outpatient Setting

Return to campus

For many students, the August term was either their first time on SGU’s iconic True Blue campus or their first time being back in Grenada since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the meantime—the University was busy with several expansion and redevelopment projects in preparation for the return of the growing campus community. Check out what’s new—and in the works—on campus.

Read: Back To School: What’s New On The True Blue Campus

 

— Laurie Chartorynsky 

 

 

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Returning home: Three grads’ journeys to practicing as MDs in Canada

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St. George’s University students are from all over the world, and many dream of returning to their home country to practice medicine after graduation. As the largest provider of doctors into first-year residencies in North America, it’s no surprise that students from the Great White North turn to SGU to follow that dream.

“Many Canadians have attended SGU to become a physician and been incredibly successful,” said Charles Furey, director of admissions for Canada at SGU. “We’re proud to have over 2,100 medical graduates from Canada in our alumni network and are encouraged by the strength of that community and what it means for students who are looking for guidance on the process of returning to Canada after graduation.”

SGU News spoke with three SOM grads about their journey from Canada to Grenada and back again to follow their dream of becoming a physician. They shared their advice for how aspiring MDs can be successful on the same path.

 

“SGU gave me the opportunity to pursue my dream of becoming a physician. It is through its extensive clinical affiliations that I was able to secure clerkships in many great hospitals that provided me with amazing mentorship opportunities that helped me find my path and pursue my dream.”

 

Iman Naimi, MD ’14

Hometown: Vancouver, Canada

Current position: Congenital interventional cardiologist, clinical assistant professor of pediatric cardiology at the University of Alberta Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry

Hospital: Stollery Children’s Hospital and Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute

SGU: Did you always know you wanted to practice in Canada and how did you prepare for that?

Dr. Naimi: Canada is my home, and I always knew that one day I would return and practice somewhere in Canada after my training.

At SGU, I joined the Canadian Student Association and went to all the info sessions to stay up to date with different provincial policies and elective sites. While in school, I took the MCCEE alongside the USMLE. I also did a family medicine rotation in Vancouver, BC, and was able to obtain an excellent recommendation letter to increase my chances of matching into the Canadian residency program. However, after learning the timeline of CaRMS relative to the US match, I decided to only apply for US residency programs.

I then decided to take the Royal College Exam for Pediatrics to ensure I could eventually obtain a license to practice in Canada. During my fellowship, when looking for a job in Canada, I found that Alberta (CPSA) did not require me to take the Royal College Exam for cardiology, and since I passed my boards in the US, I could obtain a practice permit in Canada.

SGU: What advice do you have for SGU students who are hoping to practice in Canada after graduation?

Dr. Naimi: What I have learned is that the best way to prepare is to plan ahead. This entails getting involved with the Canadian Student Association and attending all the meetings and information sessions. It is very important to reach out to Canadian programs early on in your training to inquire about elective rotation opportunities. Given the timeline of the Canadian and US match in the past, I personally chose to apply only for US residency and fellowship spots and was still able to land a job in Canada. If you choose this path, depending on the Province that you want to work in, you may be required to take the Royal College Exams. It is crucial to know the timeline of all the Canadian exams and be prepared to take them alongside the US exams. This will provide ease when applying to Canadian residency programs or job opportunities after you complete your training.

If you maintain a high GPA and board scores, as well as excel in your clerkship training by demonstrating that you can perform well in a busy clinical setting, you will set yourself apart from others. Throughout your training, it is very important to form strong connections with mentors, especially those within the institution and program that you would like to pursue, allowing you to receive excellent recommendation letters for residency opportunities after graduation.

SGU: Looking back on your journey to where you are today, why was SGU the right fit for you?

Dr. Naimi: SGU gave me the opportunity to pursue my dream of becoming a physician. It is through its extensive clinical affiliations that I was able to secure clerkships in many great hospitals that provided me with amazing mentorship opportunities that helped me find my path and pursue my dream.

Robinder Bahniwal, MD ’14

Hometown: Toronto, Canada

Current position: Family medicine physician

Hospital: Echo Valley Medical

SGU: Did you always know you wanted to practice in Canada?

Dr. Bahniwal: I did to an extent. I was okay staying in the US as well, and I did stay there for residency and three years afterward. However, I always wanted to keep my options open for Canada, so I did take my Canadian Qualifying Exams along with the USMLE exams.

SGU: How did you prepare for your return throughout med school?

Dr. Bahniwal: There are various ways to get back into Canada, but I did my research beforehand, decided that I wanted an independent license, and ensured my exams were done. When I completed my American Board of Family Medicine residency, getting my independent license in Canada was a seamless process.

SGU: Why did you choose family medicine?

Dr. Bahniwal: I very much enjoy seeing patients of all age groups, along with the variety of patient cases. In family medicine, you can see everything ranging from acute ailments to chronic disease management, women’s health, dermatology, and sports medicine which can be heavy in procedures if that is something you enjoy, along with pediatric and geriatric medicine, giving you the vast age range if that is also something you enjoy.

SGU: What advice do you have for SGU students hoping to practice in Canada after graduation?

Dr. Bahniwal: My advice is to never give up. It is a challenging road with peaks and troughs, but your perseverance will take you through the long haul, and the journey will definitely be worth it.

 

View the international student’s guide to becoming a doctor in Canada

 

Eirn Boparai, MD ’19

Current position: Fourth-year psychiatry resident

Hospital: University of Manitoba

Hometown: Kelowna, BC, Canada

St. George’s University: Did you always know you wanted to practice in Canada?

Dr. Boparai: Yes, coming back to Canada was always my goal. I was constantly reminded how difficult it would be, about the statistics of how tough it is to match back to Canada, and that I should focus on the US. But I ensured I had enough time to prepare for Canadian exams, I never underestimated them, and I asked others who had matched in Canada for advice and their own experiences and used that as a template for myself.

SGU: How did it feel to learn you were successful?

Dr. Boparai: I was in disbelief. I had to screenshot my match results and confirm with my friends that I wasn’t hallucinating. After their confirmation, I cried tears of joy for the first time in my life. It was and still is the happiest moment of my life.

SGU: Why did you choose psychiatry as your specialty?

Dr. Boparai: I’ve always enjoyed hearing stories and getting to know someone. Throughout my undergraduate studies, I worked with various organizations that emphasized mental health services and this was the foundation of my interest. Once in medical school, I shadowed a psychiatrist attending and immediately knew it was the right choice for me.

SGU: How did your experience at SGU help you get to where you are today?

Dr. Boparai: I completed my first year of medical school in the UK, then Grenada, and rotated for clinicals throughout the US and Canada. The ability to adapt and constantly change with traveling developed these skills and allowed me to build a network of connections which helped with career planning. SGU allowed me to pursue my medical goals after other options weren’t possible.

SGU: What advice do you have for SGU students hoping to practice in Canada after graduation?

Dr. Boparai: Many factors must come together to match, including your exam scores, application, clinical experiences, and CARMS interviews. For each step, put your best into it, ask for help, and remember that school isn’t only about studying and learning; it’s about life experiences you can gain through the friendships you make and places you travel to.  There will always be work to do, so enjoy the present. Your experiences will make you a better physician.

 

 

—Sarah Stoss

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SVM Recognizes Academic Excellence and Remarkable Service at Fall Term Awards Ceremony

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In a celebration of excellence and in honor of the outstanding achievements made by faculty, staff, and students, the School of Veterinary Medicine hosted its bi-annual SVM Awards Ceremony on November 18 in Bourne Lecture Hall. More than 20 sets of awards were presented to faculty and staff who demonstrated remarkable service and commitment to the veterinary medical school and to students who achieved high levels of academic success, professionalism, and displayed an exceptional work ethic.

“It’s such an important aspect of the School of Veterinary Medicine to honor the very special achievements of faculty, students, and staff. It brings the whole community together with a sense of unity,” stated Dr. Neil Olson, dean of the SVM. “We really are one family and it’s great to be a part of this joyous occasion. I think that the students in particular will have long memories of this evening, and I look forward to sharing in many more of these kinds of celebrations.”

 

“With this being the first in-person SVM awards ceremony since the COVID-19 pandemic, there was an air of gratitude and joy at being able to gather once again for this special occasion. There was a wonderful energy present throughout the ceremony, and the love and support were palpable.”

 

In addition to a wide range of traditional awards, student organizations could also participate in nominating and selecting students, faculty, and staff. One of the new awards presented this term, for example, was the Tail WAG Award. The award winner, Dr. Tara Paterson, an associate professor in the Small Animal Medicine and Surgery Department at SGU, was selected by the Wellness Aide and Guidance (WAG) student organization. The award honors a student or faculty member who works hard to further the mission of WAG, by helping the Pothounds of Grenada.

“This award is very special to us because it is our first,” shared Courtney Glotzer, co-founder of WAG. “We want to thank Dr. Paterson because she showed us her true dedication to our more intricate cases and always was there when we needed guidance. She is truly special to our club, and we will always appreciate her because of her motivation and dedication to our Pothounds.”

 

View Phi Zeta Induction Ceremony on Facebook

 

The ceremony also recognized 32 new inductees into the Alpha Delta Chapter of the Phi Zeta Honor Society—12 from Term 5 and 20 from Term 6. Earlier this month, students, faculty, and alumni gathered to celebrate during a ceremony at the University Club. Phi Zeta is the national veterinary honor society created to recognize students for their superior academic achievement. From its inception, it has been the aim of the organization to stand for constant advancement of the veterinary profession, for higher educational requirements, and for high scholarship.

“With this being the first in-person SVM awards ceremony since the COVID-19 pandemic, there was an air of gratitude and joy at being able to gather once again for this special occasion,” said Dr. Paterson, who also serves as chair of the SVM Awards Committee. “There was a wonderful energy present throughout the ceremony, and the love and support were palpable.”

SGU Island Veterinary Scholars Program (Boehringer Ingelheim) 

Adrian Jones, Jillian Luscinski, Niharika Verma

Outstanding Colleague Awards

Term 1: Cheyenne Koinzan

Term 2: Becca Jenkins, Alexandra Prince

Term 3: Sydney Garcia

Term 4: Sudarshini Coimbatore, Paige Coughlin

Term 5: Molly Gin, Gabrielle Rivera

Term 6: Briana Kinsey

Dean Olson’s Award for Academic Excellence

Paula Ulyak, Alexis Tedesco, Whitley Young, Juana Argiro, Brianne Flanagan, Chelsea Wright, Courtney Duguay, Sarah Hendrickson, Zerina Burovic, Luis Davila, Hannah Wentland, Emily Meade, Brooke Hottois

Adrienne Lotton Memorial Award

Briana Kinsey

Zoetis Revolution Awards of Excellence

Small Animal Internal Medicine: Madison Kucinick

Small Animal Surgery: Daniel Ingram

Equine Medicine and Surgery: Acacia Johnson

Food Animal Medicine and Surgery: Megan Gilmore

Scholarship of Service Award: Cassidy Morales, Courtney Glotzer, Erin Maud

Surgery Team: Sahony Caba Paulino, Melissa Edloff, Nastassia Lini, Sarah Voors, Molly Ginn, Spencer Trinca, Julia Derr, Macey Cropski

Student Research Award: Adrian Jones

**NEW** Dr. Jim Nave Award for Excellence in Clinical Practice

Amanda Rottman Torres

SVM Alumni Scholarship Award 

Brianna Auino-Moreta

Giant Paws Giant Hearts Foundation “Hercules” Award 

Cobi Gilbeau

PAWS Recognition for Term 6 Facilitators

Taylor Nealy, Antonia Nickleberry, Peter Arena, Taryn Paquet, Melissa Ballantyne, Briana Kinsey, Peyton Dillon, Samantha Batchelor, Kira Rasmussen

SCAVMA: Student Chapter of the AVMA

SAVMA Award: Carley Jones, Sloane Hoffman, Ashley Schimshock

Most Outstanding E*Board Member: Fabiola Casanova-Crespo

The Feral Cat Project 

Most Valuable Trapper: Ana Villarreal

Most Valuable Faculty/Staff: Francesca Ivaldi

Veterinary Public Health Committee

One Health One Medicine Community Leader Award: Cassandra Morales

SGUSVM Large Animal Society

Ace of Initiative Award: Ashlyn Dykes

**NEW** IVMC: Integrative Veterinary Medicine Club

Outstanding E-Board Member: Heidi Beck

SVM Wellness Committee

Wellness MVP Award: Eryn Ebinger Christian

**NEW** WAG: Wellness Aide and Guidance

The Tail WAG Award: Dr. Tara Paterson

AAARF: Angels in Armor Animal Rescue Fund

Friends of AAARF Awards: Sara Miner

The Archangel Award: Dr. Thomas Hanson

**NEW** P&E: Pride and Equality

Outstanding Faculty: Dr. Anne Corrigan

Excellence in DEI: Paige Coughlin

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

Internal Medicine MVP Award: Patrick (JJ) Byrnes

SVECCS: Student Chapter of the Emergency and Critical Care Society

Outstanding 6th Termer Award: Amanda Rottman

SCASV: Student Chapter of the Association of Shelter Veterinarians

Shelter Scholar Award: Victoria Flaherty

Shelter Star Award: Marta Lanza-Perea

SCAVDS: Student Chapter of the American Veterinary Dental Society

Superior Extractor Award: Dr. Francesca Ivaldi

SNP: Spay Neuter Pothound

Pothound Student Hero Award: Brianna Kroning

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

Avian Flock Leader Award: Alexandra Colella

EWS and VSHS Double Whammy Award: Dr. Sophie Moittie

VSHS: Veterinary Student Herpeteogical Society

The Gallant Gecko Award: Kaylee Freeman

WVLDI: Women’s Veterinary Leadership Development Initiative

WVLDI Warrior Award: Bianca Pinto

**NEW** WAVMA: World Aquatic Veterinary Medicine Association

MVP: Most Valuable Porpoise Award: Rayne LeBlanc

SVM Surgery Club

The Sharpest Scalpel Award: Brian Norton

SGA: Student Government Association

SGU SVM Outstanding Faculty Term 1-3: Dr. Mahesh Deokar

SGU SVM Outstanding Faculty Term 4-6: Dr. Talia Guttin

SGA SGU Awards of Excellence Term 1-3: Mr. Keith Miller

SGA SGU Awards of Excellence Term 4-6: Dr. Mercedes Valasquez de Zerpa

George B. Daniel Award: Brie Kinsey

The Pinckney Parasitology Award

Crissy (Janeila) Benjamin and Helena Curbelo

DES Recognition Awards

Emily Shin, Cobi Guilbeau

Diana Stone Public Health award

Janine Wettergren

SGUSVM Outstanding Staff Awards

Technical Staff: Curtis Hopkin

Administrative Staff: Serana Patino

Zoetis Award for Research Excellence

Dr. Arno Werners

Hill’s Golden Apple Teaching Award

Dr. Talia Guttin

Alpha Delta Chapter of the Society of Phi Zeta

Fall 2022 Inductees

Term 5 Inductees: Logan Bernstein, Lauren Dunbar, Amanda Ernst, Anca Gagliardo, Celine Gellineau, Adrian Jones, Maureen Kruhlak, Hannah Lavin-Sauchenco, Selina Nackley, Allison Nickell, Danielle Sackett, Taylor Stanton

Term 6 Inductees: Sean Anderson, Letty Bonilla, Riley Burrows, Yvana Ephraim, Melissa Ferguson, Gabriela Frontanes, Nicole Jennings, Charlene Kriegsman, Madison Kucinick, Brianna Aquino-Moreta, Kassidy Leon, Leandra Margolies, Cassandra Morales, Cristians Rivas Morales, Brittney Nguyen, Kendra Rehnblom, Aleeka Roberts, Sara Schectman, Stephanie Smick, Abigail Wilebski

– Ray-Donna Peters

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SVM Faculty Discuss the Impact of Poultry Production with Grenadian Farmers at Outreach Workshop

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After a two-year hiatus, St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine’s Farmers’ Outreach Program returned to an interactive, in-person workshop on October 27, 2022, at the Grenada Trade Center. SVM faculty (including visiting professors), staff, and students attended the workshop, which provides education and training in a collaborative effort between the SVM, Grenadian farmers, and the Ministry of Agriculture.

“The School of Veterinary Medicine’s commitment to the Grenadian farmers through the Farmers’ Outreach Program remains a priority to our university,” said Dr. Neil Olson, dean of the SVM. “The organizers of this year’s workshop and booklet have worked tirelessly to ensure that the content is educational and can provide guidance about common parasites, food safety and handling practices, backyard farming tips, and much more. We hope that Grenadian farmers can continue to utilize SGU as a valued resource as we remain committed to sensitization and training.”

 

View SVM Farmers' Outreach Workshop Instagram Reel

 

Established in 2003 by the late Dr. Ravindra N. Sharma, the SVM Farmers’ Outreach Program disseminates a broad range of interesting and helpful information on animal husbandry, animal diseases, and their overall impact on human health, animal health, and productivity. Almost 20 years later, the program continues to be an effective partner in strengthening the relationship between Grenadian farmers and veterinarians.

The school continued to be an excellent resource for the local farming community even during the coronavirus pandemic. While the in-person aspect of the program was paused, a booklet was created to disseminate useful information on animal management, husbandry, and disease control and prevention. After garnering favorable feedback, two years later the booklet continues to benefit the farmers in Grenada.

 

“Despite the challenges of the pandemic, we remained dedicated in our commitment to partner with and support the Grenadian community by providing the relevant information for our livestock producers.”

 

“Despite the challenges of the pandemic, we remained dedicated in our commitment to partner with and support the Grenadian community by providing the relevant information for our livestock producers,” stated Dr. Kerri Nigito, chairperson of the Farmers’ Outreach Committee. “This year’s workshop and booklet serve to provide the necessary information on poultry production that will help improve the quality of meat and eggs produced for local consumption for the people of Grenada.”

The one-day seminar hosted by the SVM catered to poultry production personnel and provided poultry farmers with best production and health practices. The workshop included PowerPoint presentations, videos, and a panel discussion followed by question-and-answer sessions. In addition, the Committee reminded those in attendance that the school offers necropsy services to investigate the death of poultry animals at the SVM Necropsy Lab located on the Lower True Blue Campus.

One of the day’s highlights was the announcement of the winner of the Committee’s logo competition, Marissa Peck. Ms. Peck, along with her fellow SVM students, were invited to design graphics for t-shirts to be distributed to the farmers supporting the theme, “Poultry Production in Grenada.” Ms. Peck’s winning logo was placed on name badges and flyers, and she received a gift certificate as well as an invitation to attend the workshop.

The seminar focused on the following areas:

  • Common parasites of poultry
  • Coccidiosis in poultry production
  • Egg production, handling, and distribution guidelines
  • Poultry tips for poultry backyard and commercial systems
  • Poultry carcass necropsy submission guidelines

 

“The SVM Farmers’ Outreach Workshop provided great insight on the impact of poultry production in Grenada,” said Dr. Kimond Cummings, chief veterinary and livestock officer in Grenada’s Ministry of Agriculture and Lands. “In particular, the booklet given out, which highlighted disease surveillance and how it affects poultry, can also be disseminated to the farmers unable to attend today.

Additionally, SGU’s open invitation to the farming community with respect to its necropsy lab services reaffirms the school’s readiness to assist and is the kind of information I can confidently share with our policymakers.”

– Ray-Donna Peters

 

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SVM grad returns to Grenada to host continuing education conference

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Aaron Spacher, DVM ’19, (far left, red windbreaker) returned to Grenada in early November to host a continuing education conference as co-founder and chief financial officer of VetBolus Continuing Education. Ninety veterinary professionals attended the conference, many of whom were SGU graduates.

After spending years on the island of Grenada, many St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine graduates find themselves longing to return for a vacation, a reunion, or, as was the case during the VetBolus Grenada conference, for all the above and more.

Aaron Spacher, DVM ’17, returned to Grenada in early November to host a continuing education conference as co-founder and chief financial officer of VetBolus Continuing Education. Ninety veterinary professionals attended the conference, many of whom were SGU graduates.

Launched in early 2022, VetBolus connects veterinary professionals to leaders in the field for engaging and practical continuing education content in locations around the world. All VetBolus conferences are RACE, and NYSED-approved so attendees can earn their state-required continuing education credit. Conference sessions at the Grenada conference focused on veterinary internal medicine and emergency and critical care, and as a bonus, it included a campus tour and SGU alumni reception at the University Club.

Dr. Spacher and his VetBolus co-founders hosted a CE conference in Grenada in early November.

For Dr. Spacher, who is also an associate veterinarian at Banfield Pet Hospital in Henrietta, NY, hosting a conference in Grenada was an easy decision after his experience as a student on the island.

“I held multiple leadership positions at SGU, allowing me to plan events. Because of this, I knew I could plan an unforgettable VetBolus Conference in Grenada,” Dr. Spacher added. “Mount Cinnamon Resort and Beach Club offered first-class service and helped me turn our vision into reality, making the decision even easier. Returning to Grenada brought back many happy memories and allowed attendees to make even more while earning their CE credits.”

Dr. Spacher got the idea for VetBolus due to his disinterest in distance learning for continuing education; watching videos online didn’t energize his love for veterinary medicine.

“After graduation, I moved back to my hometown of Rochester, NY, and at every Sunday dinner, my grandma would ask if all my continuing education hours were completed,” said Dr. Spacher as he reflected on what prompted the founding of VetBolus. “I floated the idea of a destination CE to my co-founder Dr. Kendon Kuo, with whom I had developed a friendship while completing my clinical year at Auburn University. He got Dr. Kathy Gerken, our other co-founder, on board with us to help create VetBolus. We have worked tirelessly to plan VetBolus conferences in destination locations with amazing speakers that everyone will love. We dedicated VetBolus Grenada 2022 to my grandma and those who cheer us on.”

Returning to Grenada also allowed Dr. Spacher to once again experience the beauty of the Caribbean country and its people, which is what he misses most about the island.

Dr. Spacher and the VetBolus team along with Dr. Shekinah Morris, SGU alum and attendee.

“I often tell people that attending SGU SVM is indescribable,” he said. “You are surrounded by a group of people from all over the world that end up becoming family, all while working together to achieve the same goal. Then you add fantastic faculty and staff who care about their students so much—attending SGU and living in Grenada is so special.”

Looking back on his experience at SGU from where he is in his career today, Dr. Spacher encourages all students to get involved in leadership positions because this is what prepared him for entrepreneurship.

“My fondest memories of Grenada include riding around Grand Anse in now Dr. Aki Otomo’s Escudo to rent tents from Waggy T’s, buying crates of Ting from CK’s, and ordering 50 turkeys from IGA to put on SAVMA fundraisers/events,” he said. “Leadership positions lead to fantastic opportunities.”

 

—Sarah Stoss

 

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Research experience leads to prestigious scholarship for SVM student

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Research opportunities in the School of Veterinary Medicine at St. George’s University are not hard to find, with multiple programs dedicated to helping students gain the skills they need to understand and conduct research. Participating in these opportunities, no matter what career path the student plans to take, can ultimately bolster student success throughout their education and future career in veterinary medicine.

Just ask Adrian Jones, a Term 5 SVM student and a participant in Boehringer Ingelheim’s Veterinary Scholars Program. Ms. Jones credits her involvement in several research programs at SGU, with allowing her to stand out from the crowd of competitors, hailing from schools across the United States and the Caribbean, to be selected for the scholarship.

The Boehringer Ingelheim’s Veterinary Scholars Program is in partnership with the Agricultural Research Service of the United States Department of Agriculture. It is competitive and pairs recipients with one of the USDA’s leading scientists. The latter serves as a mentor throughout the recipient’s summer as a research student on-site at the USDA. The scholarship includes research experience, a stipend to cover travel and living expenses, and the opportunity to attend the National Veterinary Scholar’s Symposium (NVSS).

 

“There are so many opportunities available at SGU, and research skills will only help strengthen your veterinary experience. Sometimes showing interest is all it takes to get started.”

 

“Overall, the research experiences I participated in have helped me greatly as a student and future veterinarian,” said Ms. Jones. She plans to pursue pathology as her focus in veterinary medicine. “It is important to stay up-to-date on the latest research and provide well-rounded, evidence-based advice and medicine to your patients and their owners.”

Ms. Jones completed two research projects as part of the Island Veterinary Scholars program at SGU, which helps students with little to no research experience gain foundational skills. Her research project as part of the SGU Veterinary Student Research Initiative (VSRI), a mentorship program that concludes with a formal research presentation, has been in progress since the spring of 2021. The subjects of her research projects are diverse, with one focused on pyometra in the Grenadian canine population, another on Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome virus infections in pigs, and the last on using nanoparticles as antibiotics against several strains of bacteria.

“Adrian is an extraordinary student, which I saw firsthand when I mentored her in the Island Veterinary Scholars Program,” said Dr. Firdous Khan, associate professor of theriogenology and chair of the Large Animal Medicine and Surgery Graduate Affairs Committee. “I hope her story inspires students and increases awareness of research programs at SGU. Adrian proves what’s possible when you get involved in these opportunities.”

Ms. Jones recognizes the great benefits of the research experiences she has pursued while at SGU.

“I heard about the scholarship through Professor Dr. Sonia Cheetham-Brow, after I participated in the SGU Island Veterinary Scholars Program in the summer of 2021,” said Ms. Jones. “I knew it was a great learning opportunity, and I am proud that I was selected from such a large pool of competitive candidates. I think the research project I presented with Dr. Firdous Khan through the IVSP helped my application significantly.”

As for what students interested in following the same path as Ms. Jones can do to ensure their success, her advice is simple: apply.

“I know many friends who didn’t apply because they didn’t think they’d get the position and regretted it,” she said. “There are so many opportunities available at SGU, and research skills will only help strengthen your veterinary experience. Sometimes showing interest is all it takes to get started.”

 

—Sarah Stoss

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