SGU Physician Humanitarian Network Brings Life-Changing Eye Care to Grenadians

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SGU PHuN ophthalmology team

Grenadians received critical eye care services recently through the St. George’s University (SGU) Physician Humanitarian Network (PHuN) ophthalmology clinic—the first specialized eye clinic since before the COVID-19 pandemic.

Former SGU student Dr. Bernard Spier headed the ophthalmology clinic in Grenada, along with two ophthalmologists, Dr. Elliot Crane and Dr. Zachary Mendelson, and two assistants, Ms. Karen Rodriguez and Ms. Carrie Rivera. The clinic took place from February 19 to March 1, 2024.

The team completed 139 examinations and consultations for those suffering from eye-related ailments such as cataracts and glaucoma. Additionally, the team did more than 40 procedures including small-incision cataract surgeries, corneal transplants, YAG laser procedures, and Avastin injections that restored and improved sight for many Grenadians. The team completed these procedures with $117,656 USD worth of donated medical supplies, surgical equipment, corneal tissue, and more, organized by Dr. Spier.

Dr. Spier, an ophthalmologist with a practice in South Orange, NJ, participated in his first PHuN ophthalmology clinic in 2006. This past trip marks his 13th trip to Grenada to serve the local community through PHuN. 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.”

“For me, it’s the idea of improving a person’s life with these procedures,” Dr. Spier said. “Simply, it feels good to do that.”

Dr. Spier poses with ophthalmology equipment

Dr. Spier stands with a piece of ophthalmology equipment

The SGU PHuN Program has a history of making an impact on the lives of Grenadians in other specialties such as cardiology, vascular surgery, and obstetrics/gynecology.

“The SGU PHuN program is extremely beneficial to the Grenadian community because it provides valuable support in the form of medical services to the people of the island as well as donations of medical supplies to the ophthalmology clinic,” said Dr. Brendon La Grenade, vice provost of St. George’s University. “It also provides an outlet for a variety of SGU doctors of various disciplines to give back to the island where they got both their education and medical career starts.”

For Dr. Spier, the chance to give back to the people of Grenada is deeply meaningful.

“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. Spier encourages other former students and alumni of SGU to consider participating in the SGU PHuN program, naming it as a profoundly rewarding experience.

“If you want to help the people of Grenada and want to go back to Grenada you should do it,” Dr. Spier said.

 

–Juliette Kimmins

 

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SVM Students, Staff, and Faculty Honored at Spring Term Awards Ceremonies

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SVM students and faculty stand together as a group posing with their awards.

SVM students and faculty celebrate their achievements at the SVM Spring 2024 Term Awards

The St. George’s University (SGU) School of Veterinary Medicine and its honor society, Phi Zeta, celebrated the accomplishments of its students, staff, and faculty in April at two distinguished ceremonies—its Spring 2024 Awards Ceremony and Phi Zeta induction, respectively.

Dr. Tara Paterson, associate dean of Year Four Clinical Training at SGU and chair of the SVM Awards Committee, said, “The SVM community takes pride in recognizing the amazing accomplishments of its students, staff, and faculty. Congratulations to all those honored.”

Thirty-one sets of awards were presented during the SVM Term Awards, which took place on April 19, including the newest awards added this term the Dr. Ravindra Nath Sharma Pathology Excellence Award and the Veterinary Professionalism Award.

Students at the Phi Zeta Induction Ceremony

Students at the Phi Zeta Induction Ceremony

Also of note was the induction of 35 students into the Alpha Delta Chapter of the Society of Phi Zeta April 26. Phi Zeta is the national veterinary honor society created to recognize students for their superior academic achievement, and it is headed by Dr. Melinda J. Wilkerson as interim president and Dr. Sonia Cheetham as interim president and treasurer.

“We at the School of Veterinary Medicine are proud to recognize the success and achievements of our students, faculty, and staff,” said Dr. Neil Olson, dean of the SVM. “It is a true testament to the hard work on the part of the SVM community this term.”

 

SVM Awards Ceremony Photo Album

 

This semester’s awards are as follows:

Outstanding Colleague Awards

Term 1:  Gabriel Cordero Bruno

Term 2: Ashley Humphreys

Term 3: Faith Van Rengen

Term 4: Daphne Harris

Term 5: Brittany Watson

Term 6: Elena Tanakova

Dean Olson’s Award for Academic Excellence

Elena Tanakova

Adrienne Lotton Memorial Award

Lindsay Ferguson

Zoetis Revolution Awards of Excellence

Small Animal Internal Medicine: Nathalie Rodriguez

Small Animal Surgery: Kristi Cerami

Equine Medicine and Surgery: Alyssa Carpenter

Food Animal Medicine and Surgery: Sarah Hendrickson

Scholarship of Service: Lindsay Ferguson

Student Research Award: Stephanie Smick

Dr. Jim Nave Award for Excellence in Clinical Practice

Elena Tanakova

Dechra Awards of Excellence

Small Animal Internal Medicine: Chenoa Hope-Tomlinson

Equine Sports Medicine: Sean MacPherson

SVM Alumni Scholarship Award

Bianca Mower

Giant Paws Giant Hearts Foundation “Hercules” Award

Marissa Peck

Dr. Ravindra Nath Sharma Pathology Excellence Award

Valeria Cheron

AAFP (American Association of Feline Practitioners) Outstanding Senior Award 

Lauren Abrams

The Veterinary Professionalism Award

Matthew Peterson

PAWS Recognition Sixth Term Facilitators

Matthew Peterson, Elena Tanakova, Diego Soler, Erinn Schmidt, Isabel Jurenka, Samantha Birkl, Allison Lott, Nicole Osorio, Sydney Garcia, Bianca Mower, Bradford Holman, Alexandra (Lexi) Lawson, Lindsay Ferguson, Juan Pablo Padriza, and Marissa Peck

SAVMA: Student Chapter of the AVMA

SAVMA Executive Board Extraordinary Service Award: Katherine Smith

Feral Cat Project

Cat-tastic faculty: Dr. Tara Walcot

A-meow-zing member: Mallory Ryan

Veterinary Public Health Committee

Outstanding Member: Lindsay Ferguson

Outstanding Faculty Members: Dr. Wayne Sylvester and Jude Modeste

SGUSVM Large Animal Society

Ace of Initiative Award: Morgan Eckstein

Producer of Excellence: Dr. Nyoni Winchester

WAG: Wellness Aide and Guidance

The Prized Pothound Award: Courtney Duguay

The Diligent Doctor Award: Dr. Ashiq Bhat

AAARF: Angels in Armor Animal Rescue Fund

AAARF’s Armor: Katrina Gong

AAARF’s Angel: Dr. Liza Vasechkina

VAC: Veterinary Anesthesia Club

Anesthesia Excellency Award: Breanna Maramag

Distinguished Veterinary Anesthesia Educator Award: Dr. Nuria Quesada

P&E: Pride and Equality

Excellence in Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI)—faculty: Dr. Farah Mohammed

Excellence in Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI)—student: Alexandra Prince

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

Most Dedicated Member: Elim Yee

SVECCS: Student Chapter of the Veterinary Emergency & Critical Care Society

Outstanding 6th Termer: Melitsa Loannou

Outstanding Faculty Award: Dr. Elizaveta Vaschekina

SCVMA (Students of the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association)

Notorious NAVLE Nerd: Dylan Glasser

Friend of Canadians Faculty Award: Dr. Anne Corrigan

SNP: Spay Neuter Pothound

Staff Pothound Hero Award: Tracy Andrews

Student Pothound Hero Award: Mia Kaminsky

SCACVP: Student Chapter of the American College of Veterinary Pathologists

The MVP (Most Valuable Pathologist): Leslie Escobar

EWS: Exotics & Wildlife Society

Wildlife Warrior Award: Cheyenne Roth

WAVMA: World Aquatic Veterinary Medicine Association

MVP (Most Valuable Porpoise): Juana Argiro

Green Consortium

Ex’SEED’ the Expectation: Marissa Peck

SVM Surgery Club

Faculty Appreciation Award: Tara Paterson

Spotlight Award: Michael Starrett

SGA: Student Government Association

SGU SVM Outstanding Faculty Term 1-3: Dr. Hector Zerpa

SGU SVM Outstanding Faculty Term 4-6: Dr. Firdous Khan

SGA SGU Awards of Excellence Term 1-3: Matthew Charles

George B. Daniel Award: Sydney Garcia

DES Recognition Awards:

Liani Tremor (T6), Kristen Anderson (T5), Anne Manganiello (T4), Michael Starrett (T5), Nicole Gasparian (T5), and Samantha Hild (T4)

SGUSVM Outstanding Staff Awards

Administrative Staff: Ulanda Richards

Zoetis Distinguished Veterinary Teacher Award: Dr. Heidi Janicke

Alpha Delta Chapter of the Society of Phi Zeta

Spring 2024 Inductees

Term 5: Jayme Clarke, Courtney Conway, Elizabeth Fournier, Germaine Germundson, Haley Harraka, Shana Hodosh, Jessica Martin, Julia Moretz, Alexandra Morris, Nicole O’Connor, Samantha Palmer, Brie Pavol, Bianca Perez, Wesleigh Porter, Michael Starrett, Elena Wafford, and Rebekah Wilson

Term 6: Seung Hyun Bong, Trevor Cooke, Courtney Duguay, Molly Jones, Mackenzie Keaney, Tiffany Longo, Cassandra MacLaren, Megan Messick, Elizabeth Owens, Veronica Passannante, Matthew Peterson, Andrew Richterkessing, Hannah Reil, Nicholas Santangelo, Taylor Sforza, Megan Strunk, Emma Wood, and Miller Young

Spring 2024 Phi Zeta Scholarship: Samantha Palmer

 

–Juliette Kimmins

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

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The newest class of nursing students eagerly listened to the remarks of keynote speaker, Darian Joseph, BSN ’23, while trying to contain their excitement, at the recent St. George’s University School of Arts and Sciences Nursing Induction Ceremony.

As a recent graduate of SGU’s nursing program, Nurse Joseph was someone who had once been in their shoes. Now a passionate and dedicated registered nurse, she reminded students what she learned while at SGU.

“Nursing is not just the profession, it’s a calling, a passion to serve and profoundly impact the lives of others,” Nurse Joseph said during her remarks.

 

Nurse Joseph proudly looked on as 76 aspiring nurses gathered on March 15 at Louis and Marion Modica Hall on SGU’s True Blue campus to mark their entry into the field of nursing. 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.

Along with being presented with the pins, the future nurses recited the International Council of Nurses pledge during the ceremony.

Three SAS nursing students shared what it was like to join this honorable profession.

 

“I chose to become a nurse because I’ve always wanted to serve in the medical field and be able to work directly with patients on a one-on-one basis. I want to be able to offer them compassionate care and get to know them and to nurse them back to health. To me that’s so rewarding, and I look forward to being able to do that.”

– Deborah Charles 
Third-year nursing student

 

“Becoming a nurse is such a remarkable thing—being able to serve my country on a professional level and most of all giving back to my community. Also being a male nurse is exciting stuff. I get asked about it all the time. I guess it’s because it’s not as common.”

– Kenneth St. Bernard
       First-year nursing student

 

“I have always wanted to be a nurse and my dream is finally coming true. I feel a huge sense of pride at being able to join such a noble profession. The Latin term for nurse is nutrire, which means to nourish and to care for. I have a very caring personality, so I feel that this profession is very befitting of who I am.”

– Narah James
Second-year nursing student

 

        – Ray-Donna Peters

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Back to School: 47 SGU Alumni Return to Grenada for CME Conference

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This March, nearly 50 alumni from St. George’s University School of Medicine returned to the True Blue campus and to the island where for many, it all began. Hosted by the SOM Alumni Association (SOMAA), SGU graduates came back to attend the 2024 Art of Medicine continuing medical education (CME) conference.

During the four-day event, held in association with the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP), participants had the opportunity to learn about new advancements across the medical landscape, while earning up to 16 CME credits. SGU grads also had a chance to reunite with classmates and faculty, while making connections with future inductees (students) into the 22,000-member alumni network.

“As a single event, this SOMAA CME conference consistently accomplishes several key success objectives,” said Dr. Brendon La Grenade, vice provost for Institutional Advancement and head of Alumni Affairs. “It provides an avenue for our alumni to reconnect with this island and this institution where it all began; it allows them to connect with current students who are inspired by their stories of success; and it gives them a chance to network with fellow alumni, strengthening this outstanding community of 22,000 strong and growing—all while sharing and enhancing their medical education.”

 

View CME Conference Instagram Reel

 

Alumni and Students Connect

The Alumni/Student Speed Networking event was a highlight of the CME conference this year, giving Term 4 and 5 SOM students the opportunity to connect with alumni, many of whom are top specialists in their fields.

Students had the chance to establish professional relationships with returning alumni and ask questions about their journeys to a career in medicine, opening avenues for the returning physicians to share their insights about the rigors of the profession.

“I love attending events like these because you get to talk to an actual SGU alum in person,” said Emilee Atkins, a Term 5 SOM student. “This is someone who has been in my shoes and can offer valuable insight on what’s going to come and some good advice on how to tackle it. This is beneficial not only now as I’m about to start my clinical years, but also later when I’m applying for residency.”

Wondering what this year’s CME conference was like? Check out the photos to see what you missed.

 

  • The seventh annual SOMAA CME grew in participation since last year, with 85 attendees, 47 of whom were SGU alumni, as well as 11 Grenadian physicians who practice locally.

  • Alumni received a warm welcome from Vice Provost Brendon La Grenade; SOM Dean Marios Loukas; Grenada’s Minister of Health, the Hon. Phillip Telesford; and Provost Glen Jacobs (from left to right).

  • Joseph Allen, MD ’90, was happy to reunite with Dean C.V. Rao and SOMAA President Bruce Bonanno, MD ’83.

  • Conference attendees were able to purchase a variety of SGU and SOM Alumni Association memorabilia.

  • A highlight of the four-day conference was the Alumni/Student Speed Networking event, which allowed the visiting physicians to share some words of advice with current medical students.

  • Proud alumnae, Alena Wade, MD ’06 and Katusha Cornwall-Griffith, MD ’11 were the event’s co-hosts.

  • Learning strategist, Jessica Milner, MD ’22, came back to Grenada to work in the Department of Educational Services here at SGU. She shared that the reason she returned was to give back to the community that gave her the chance to pursue her dreams.

  • Year 4 SOM student, Folarin Adeyemi was eager to have his questions answered, especially since finding out he recently matched into a general surgery residency.

  • For conference-goers, their time in Grenada wasn’t only about lectures and education. The SOMAA provided plenty of opportunities to experience a taste of culture and hospitality on the island many called home during their studies.

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– Ray-Donna Peters

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Match Day 2024: 8 SGU Students Secure Residency Positions in Canada Through CaRMS Match

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Alexandra Robertson

Eight St. George’s University students will be joining the healthcare system in Canada this summer with MDs at the end of their names.

Eight St. George’s University students will be joining the healthcare system in Canada this summer with MDs at the end of their names, having matched into competitive residency programs through the first iteration of the Canadian Resident Matching Service (CaRMS) R-1 Main Residency Match.

Students matched into residency programs in four Canadian provinces: Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, and Ontario. More SGU students are expected to earn residency positions in the second Canadian Match iteration on April 25.

“We are extremely proud of our students for matching into competitive programs across the country,” said Jibran Vahidy, SGU’s director of admissions and partnerships, Canada. “These students will join hundreds of other SGU alumni who have returned to Canada to pursue their medical careers. We acknowledge and celebrate their accomplishments, as well as the positive impact they will have on communities as well-rounded, caring, and competent physicians.”

Dr. Alexandra Robertson, MD ’23, felt a combination of relief, excitement and “pure joy” upon learning that she matched into an internal medicine residency at the University of Alberta.

Dr. Robertson, who hails from Edmonton, Alberta, is looking forward to returning home to practice medicine and to “continue to grow both as a doctor and as a person as I navigate whatever new challenges residency brings.”

“My journey in medicine at SGU has taken me from the United Kingdom, to Grenada, and across the United States and Canada. I have been enriched by being exposed to many different healthcare systems, electronic medical records, teaching environments, team structures, cultures, and patient populations. I have had the good fortune of being able to make deep and meaningful connections with mentors and friends along the way,” Dr. Roberston said. “The path is difficult but rewarding for those who are willing to go on an adventure!”

On March 15, more than 930 SGU students and graduates secured post-graduate residencies at health centers around the United States in the 2024 match cycle. Visit our 2024 residency listing page for a complete list of SGU physicians who will begin their residencies this summer.

 

 

– Laurie Chartorynsky and Juliette Kimmins

 

 

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

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Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine

The Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine at St. George’s University School of Medicine is celebrating 25 years of offering a Master of Public Health to students and contributing to building a competent public health workforce globally.

 

The Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine at St. George’s University (SGU) School of Medicine is celebrating 25 years of offering a Master of Public Health to students and contributing to building a competent public health workforce globally.

The program, which opened its doors in the spring of 1999, has since matriculated more than 1,000 students specializing in health policy administration, environmental and occupational health, preventive medicine, veterinary medicine, global health, epidemiology, and other professional fields.

“On behalf of the St. George’s University community, we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the founding of our Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine,” said Dr. Marios Loukas, dean of the School of Medicine at St. George’s University.  “The department, with its focus on preparing students for the wide range of careers in the field of public health and preventive medicine, exemplifies SGU’s commitment to our mission of positive global impact and a truly international education.”

Early Beginnings

SGU’s public health program was the brainchild of Dr. Allen Pensick, former provost of the University. His desire to establish a public health program stemmed from the importance of equipping medical students with a holistic approach to medicine—allowing SGU-trained physicians to not only provide clinical care to patients but also have the knowledge to offer patients preventive education and tools as well. In the fall of 1999, the first students began courses in public health at SGU.

Over the years, the department has evolved to include not only School of Medicine students, but also those within SGU’s School of Veterinary Medicine and School of Arts and Sciences, who are interested in pursuing careers in public health. The program proudly hosts students and faculty from countries around the world, contributing to its diverse perspective on public health.

“For the past 25 years, SGU’s Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine has been at the forefront of promoting public health through education and practice,” according to Dr. Kerry Mitchell, assistant dean of students and chair of the Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine. “In Grenada, the region, and even beyond, our students and faculty have tirelessly worked to raise awareness and address the social and environmental determinants impacting the health of our communities.”

Added Dr. Mitchell: “In addition, our alumni, many of whom are practicing physicians globally, hold pivotal roles in shaping public health policies and decisions. This solidifies the crucial role that St. George’s University and the Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine have played in shaping a healthier future for all.”

 

View Reel on Instagram

 

Recognized Globally

A significant achievement of the Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine is its success in gaining full accreditation by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) in 2010. It is one of the few non-US based MPH programs recognized and accredited by the organization. The program continues to be accredited through 2030.

“With this accreditation, we are able to guarantee our students an approved public health master’s education as other CEPH-accredited schools internationally,” Dr. Mitchell said.

As the program has adapted to the changing needs of public health, it welcomed Collaborating Centers from the World Health Organization (WHO) in Environmental and Occupational Health in 2012 and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in 2013. These collaborations allow both faculty and students to carry out research and service activities in those respective fields.

The department has additional plans to keep up with the changing needs of students as well as the public health workforce.

“Our multidisciplinary team has collaborated closely with numerous local communities and global institutions to tailor and strengthen our public health training,” Dr. Mitchell said. “This adaptability is particularly evident in our reliance on guidance from our community advisory members and the international collaborating centers housed within our department. As a result, we have been able to tailor our educational approach to produce the public health practitioners our communities need.”

For example, despite the global challenges faced in recent years, the department has successfully navigated through various instructional methods, emerging as a leader in public health hybrid education.

SGU graduates with dual MD/MPH and DVM/MPH degrees are making a difference around the world.

 

Darren Cuthbert, MD, MPH

Darren Cuthbert, MD/MPH ’16
Emergency medicine physician
New Jersey

“SGU’s MPH program opened the door of opportunity for me. One of the things I love about medicine today is the increased emphasis placed on evidence-based medicine—public health is the backbone to this practice. Not only does having an MPH make you stick out as a leader amongst your peers, but it broadens your horizon of the world and medicine—eventually creating a better doctor and scientist.”

 

Alicia Persaud, MD, MPH '20

Alicia Persaud, MD, MPH ’20
Family medicine physician
Ontario, Canada

“I believe completing the MD/MPH dual degree program gave me an edge with residency programs simply by having an additional degree. It was reflective of my commitment to medicine and healthcare in general. Completing my MPH in Grenada gave me a unique insight into the global public health sector, and also gave me crucial research experience. I was able to apply both degrees to my research projects during residency.”

 

MPH Program Milestones - (1999-2023)

 

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SGU Student Receives Competitive Veterinary Medicine Research Scholarship 

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Shelley Lownds, SVM student

Shelley Lownds, a School of Veterinary Medicine Term 3 student, was recently selected for the competitive Morris Animal Foundation Veterinary Student Scholar program.

A St. George’s University student’s passion for conservation and commitment to research has helped her secure a prestigious veterinary research scholarship. Shelley Lownds, a School of Veterinary Medicine Term 3 student, was recently selected for the competitive Morris Animal Foundation Veterinary Student Scholar program.   

“I was very honored when I found out I received this scholarship. The Morris Animal Foundation is a reputable organization that does so much good work, and it was exciting to hear that they thought my research was as important as I do,” said Ms. Lownds, who is in the DVM/MSc dual degree program.   

With the guidance of her mentor, Dr. Sophie Moittié, an assistant professor at the School of Veterinary Medicine’s Department of Pathobiology, and other professors and researchers, Ms. Lownds is studying the prevalence of Chytrid Fungus and Ranavirus in the four species of amphibians that inhabit Grenada. These two pathogens have significantly contributed to amphibian extinctions and population declines worldwide.  

“There is still much to learn about Chytrid and Ranavirus, so the more knowledge we can acquire about their effect on different populations, the better we will be able to protect amphibian species worldwide,” Ms. Lownds said. She believes that researching in Grenada is especially important because of the startling presence of these pathogens and because it is home to the critically endangered Grenada frog.    

Ms. Lownds, Dr. Moittié, and other members of the project’s research committee have been traveling around the island collecting skin and mouth swabs from all four amphibian species. With these samples, Ms. Lownds will test for the pathogens and other factors that impact pathogen presence.   

“We hope this research will assist in conservation efforts of the Grenada frog and contribute to the greater research of Chytrid and Ranavirus,” Ms. Lownds said. 

According to Dr. Moittié, Ms. Lownds is making great progress with the fieldwork, having already sampled half of the targeted number of samples for the project.   

Grenadian frog

Ms. Lownds believes that researching in Grenada is especially important because of the startling presence of these pathogens and because it is home to the critically endangered Grenada frog.

About the Veterinary Scholar Program 

Securing a place as a Veterinary Student Scholar is no easy feat. Dr. Moittié emphasized the competitiveness of the scholarship saying that “each project proposal undergoes an exhaustive review process including evaluations by the foundation’s Scientific Advisory Board, Research Oversight Committee, Board of Trustees, and Animal Welfare Advisory Board.”   

Ms. Lownds joined the most recent cohort of 24 scholars from all around the world and the roughly 600 students to have participated in the program since it began in 2015, according to Veterinary Practice News. Each recipient is awarded a stipend of up to $5,000 USD by the Morris Animal Foundation. In addition to the stipend provided by the foundation, SGU’s Office of Research matched Ms. Lownds’ scholarship via the Small Grants Research Initiative, which covers direct and indirect costs associated with the project.  

Ms. Lownds credited her mentors and SGU as being instrumental in helping her through the whole application and research process. When deciding on a research topic, she met with many professors who helped her narrow her focus and guide her in the right direction.  

She is especially grateful to Dr. Moittié who Ms. Lownds said, “always makes herself available, has been extremely helpful in guiding me through every step of the project, and has taught me so much.”   

Shelley Lownds (right), Dr. Sophie Moittie (left)

Ms. Lownds (right), Dr. Moittié (left), and other members of the project’s research committee have been traveling around the island collecting skin and mouth swabs from all four amphibian species. With these samples, Ms. Lownds will test for the pathogens and other factors that impact pathogen presence.

Looking ahead  

Guided by wanting to work with animals and in conservation, Ms. Lownds decided to pursue veterinary science at SGU. She said she was drawn to the DVM/MSc dual degree program’s greater emphasis on wildlife and conservation research. Ms. Lownds aims to be a board-certified specialist in zoological medicine with an interest in combatting illegal wildlife trade and, of course, staying involved in conservation-based research.  

“There are not many vet schools where you can begin doing wildlife and conservation work [on] day one, so this was a large draw for me. Wildlife medicine is also a very competitive field to enter, so having an MSc upon graduation will be very valuable in setting me up for my future career,” she said.   

Additionally, this grant has allowed Ms. Lownds to get an early start in conservation-based veterinary research and to work with species she has less experience with. Given her lifelong passion for wildlife conservation, this scholarship is another way Ms. Lownds is helping contribute to a meaningful cause.  

Dr. Moittié added that Ms. Lownds’ accomplishment shows that motivated SGU students seeking to conduct impactful research can successfully find support from internal and external funding bodies. She sees a place for Ms. Lownds’ research in presentations at international conferences and peer-reviewed publications. Furthermore, Dr. Moittié is hopeful that the recognition by the Morris Animal Foundation and the significance of this research project will bring visibility to SGU’s research community.   

Dr. Neil Olson, dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine, commended Ms. Lownds on her efforts. “The School of Veterinary Medicine along with the larger SGU community are immensely proud of Ms. Lownds’ amazing accomplishment. We are eager to see where this new opportunity takes her and her contributions to the field of veterinary medicine,” he said.  

  

  

  

— Juliette Kimmins   

  

  

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SGU Students Secure 910+ U.S. Residencies in 2024 Match

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Match Day collage

This article has been updated from its original publish date with SGU’s match results as of March 20, 2024.

St. George’s University School of Medicine announced today that more than 910 of its students and graduates have secured post-graduate residencies at health centers around the United States in the 2024 match cycle.

This marks the 10th consecutive year in which SGU has been the largest provider of new doctors to first-year U.S. post-graduate residencies.*

“Match Day is a pivotal moment in a new doctor’s career,” said Dr. Marios Loukas, dean of the St. George’s University School of Medicine. “The entire St. George’s University community looks forward to this day, and together we congratulate this remarkable class of medical students on their success.”

SGU students and graduates matched into residences in 22 specialties across 40 states and the District of Columbia. More students will find out where they will be doing residency training in the days and weeks to come.

“St. George’s University graduates have been meeting the medical needs of communities across the United States for decades. We look forward to seeing all the great things that this newest class of SGU graduates will accomplish.”

 

St. George’s University graduates will begin residency programs in several highly competitive specialties, ranging from urology and neurology to emergency medicine and pediatrics. Many will be returning to their home states or cities to begin their careers in medicine.

“Each one of these matched students represents the next step in a dream come true, and each one is a vital addition to the availability of care, and to the medical professional community,” said Dr. Loukas.

This new group of doctors will play a crucial role in addressing America’s growing physician shortage. Since 2015, St. George’s University has been the largest provider of new doctors to the U.S. healthcare system annually. More than two-thirds of SGU graduates enter primary care specialties, and a number of SGU alumni work in medically underserved areas.

“St. George’s University graduates have been meeting the medical needs of communities across the United States for decades,” Dr. Loukas said. “We look forward to seeing all the great things that this newest class of SGU graduates will accomplish.”

 

* As the medical school graduating the largest number of students per year, SGU places the largest number of graduates into residency programs each year, based on internal SGU graduate/expected graduate and residency placement data as of March 2024.

 

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Match Day 2024: SGU students describe what it’s like to Match

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Richard Hawran

This article has been updated from its original publish date with SGU’s match results as of March 20, 2024.

St. George’s University students rejoiced and breathed a sigh of relief on Friday as hundreds were matched into residency programs on Match Day 2024. The group faced tremendous uncertainty during the COVID-19 pandemic, but now their hard work is being rewarded with their dreams of being doctors realized.

More than 910 SGU School of Medicine students and graduates secured first-year US residency positions.*  These numbers are expected to climb in the coming weeks.

Students matched into at least 22 specialties, including highly competitive positions in fields such as:

  • Anesthesiology,
  • Child neurology,
  • Diagnostic radiology,
  • Emergency medicine,
  • Family medicine,
  • Internal medicine,
  • Neurological surgery,
  • Neurology,
  • Obstetrics and gynecology,
  • Orthopedic surgery,
  • Pathology,
  • Pediatrics,
  • Physical medicine and rehabilitation,
  • Psychiatry,
  • Surgery,
  • Urology,
  • Vascular surgery, and more.

They will join residency programs, many at prestigious institutions, in 40 US states and the District of Columbia this summer.

Match Day is a milestone moment in students’ medical education as they learn where their hard work and determination will take them in their career. Students and graduates will now enjoy the fruits of their labor as the next chapter of their medical training begins—this time with ‘MD’ beside their name.

SGU News spoke with several recently matched students about what it felt like to discover that all their hard work led to a dream come true and what they are most looking forward to in residency. Here are just a few of their answers.

View Our Match Day Reel!

 

 

Iris Alao

Iris Alao

Matched: MedStar/Georgetown University

Specialty: Pediatrics

Hometown: Gross Pointe, MI

What was your Match Day reaction? Thank God! All the sacrifices and hard work finally paid off and my dream of becoming doctor has come to fruition.

What are you most looking forward to in residency? Doing more procedures, building patient relationships while tracking significant milestones, and having a little more independence when it comes to making medical decisions.

 

Ryan Caprio

Ryan Caprio 

Matched: Morristown Medical Center

Specialty: Orthopedic Surgery

Hometown: Medfield, MA

What was your Match Day reaction? I was absolutely speechless. I saw the email pop up on my phone with “Congratulations” being the first word I saw and couldn’t believe it was actually happening! I feverishly refreshed the NRMP site to confirm it was true and was so ecstatic to find out I matched into my dream specialty!

What are you most looking forward to in residency? I’m looking forward to being able to work with such a fantastic team and hope to be able to support patients in their time of need. As I will be at a newer residency program, I am looking forward to getting involved and helping the program grow as well. I’m also excited to be able to learn more about an incredible field and am hoping that the Boston Celtics finally win another NBA Championship by the time I start residency so I can rock a Celtics scrub cap in the OR!

 

Adriana Eslamian

Adriana Eslamian

Matched: St. Joseph’s Medical Center

Specialty: Internal Medicine

Hometown: Sacramento, CA

What was your Match Day reaction? Honestly, I immediately burst into tears. We have been working towards this moment from our first day of medical school, and to finally experience that moment was more incredible than I ever could have imagined. My husband and I were also so relieved that I matched close enough to home that we wouldn’t have to be apart for the next three years. It all worked out perfectly!

What are you most looking forward to in residency? I am mostly looking forward to finally starting my training as an internal medicine physician, having my own patients that I get to start building the patient/physician relationship with and seeing myself evolve into the best physician that I can be. I also can’t wait to meet my co-residents and embark on this journey with them.

 

Melanie Espino-Canche and Andrew Cross

Melanie Espino-Cache and Andrew Cross

Matched: Jersey Shore University Medical Center and Inspira Health Network (Vineland, NJ)

Specialty: Child Neurology and Emergency Medicine

Hometowns: El Sereno, CA and Queensbury, NY

What was your Match Day reaction? 
Melanie: Absolutely thrilled and relieved! You spend a lifetime anticipating this moment, striving, wishing, and hoping for it. Yet, there’s no guarantee, so we were filled with nervous anticipation before opening our emails. We met at SGU in Grenada, sharing a dream of matching together, and we took a chance on ourselves. We feel incredibly fortunate to have been given this opportunity!

Andrew: It was an overwhelming feeling of bliss to know that I would be able to continue my journey with my partner by my side. This meant more to me than the match itself. My relationship was my top priority, so when we matched, it added an extra layer of significance and joy.

What are you most looking forward to in residency?

Melanie: I eagerly anticipate delving deeply into all aspects of my specialty. While our (clinical) rotations provide a glimpse into pathologies and treatment regimens, I am eager to immerse myself further, gaining more exposure and autonomy as I progress in my learning journey and build confidence. Meeting my future colleagues is another source of excitement for me. Having formed a close-knit family at SGU, I look forward to fostering the same strong bonds within my residency program.

Andrew: I am eagerly anticipating the chance to utilize my hands in a deeply meaningful way, making a tangible difference in someone’s life. This opportunity to help others is unlike any I have experienced before, and I am excited to embrace the challenge with open arms. The prospect of being able to see the impact of my actions and the positive change they can bring fills me with a sense of purpose and fulfillment that drives me forward.

 

Richard Hawran

Richard Hawran

Matched: Weill Cornell Medicine at NewYork Presbyterian

Specialty: General Surgery (Preliminary)

Hometown: Clifton, NJ

What was your Match Day reaction? I felt like all of my hard work paid off and there was a tremendous sense of relief.

What are you most looking forward to in residency? Challenging myself to grow in every way possible.

 

Jasmine Aukakh

Jasmine Aulakh

Matched: Wayne State University School of Medicine

Specialty: Family Medicine

Hometown: Ontario, Canada

What was your Match Day reaction? I was extremely grateful for matching into my top choice and being close to my family and fiancé during this very important part in my career.

What are you most looking forward to in residency? I am looking forward to adapting to a new environment and taking on the challenges that this role will present. I am excited to join WSU residency family and work alongside and learn from my colleagues.

 

*Data as of March 2024

 

— Laurie Chartorynsky and Juliette Kimmins

 

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

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SVM vet students

Twenty-eight students and graduates of St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine secured competitive internship and residency positions within the 2024 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.

“Congratulations to all who matched in this year’s VIRMP,” said Dr. Neil Olson, dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine. “The hard work that students put in to make their dreams come true has been reflected in these hard-won internships and residencies. It is a true testament to the dedication they have to the veterinary profession, and to the desire to contribute to the betterment of animal healthcare. I hope that students will continue use these opportunities to learn and grow as professionals and to make SGU proud.”

Students shared their reactions to learning they matched and their advice for future veterinarians.

Whitney McCoy, DVM '23

Whitney McCoy, DVM ’23

Matched: Animal Dermatology Clinic, Dallas, TX
Current location: Small animal rotating intern at Iowa State University

What was your reaction to matching in the VIRMP? Are you happy with the outcome?
Dr. McCoy: I was thrilled to see I matched with my top choice!

How does the residency fit within your career plans?
Dr. McCoy: A dermatology residency in private practice will help me achieve my goal of becoming a board-certified veterinary dermatologist in my hometown of Jackson, MS.

What is your top piece of advice to veterinary students?
Dr. McCoy: Believe in yourself and your abilities. Know that veterinary medicine isn’t one size fits all, so find the niche that makes you happy and never give up on your dreams, even if they seem unattainable.

What was your SGU experience?
Dr. McCoy: Attending SGU was a truly transformative experience that gave me much more than just a veterinary education. I gained invaluable life lessons, formed lifelong friendships, and received a diverse and comprehensive education that has helped me excel in my career.

Lauren Smith, DVM '24 (expected)

Lauren Smith, DVM ’24 (expected)

Matched: Red Bank Veterinary Hospital (Red Bank, NJ)
Current location: Completing clinical year at the University of Georgia

What was your reaction to matching in the VIRMP? Are you happy with the outcome?
Ms. Smith: I am very excited! I have heard really great things from other veterinarians, interns, and residents who know colleagues that went through the same program. I will also be close to a few friends that I made while in Grenada which is so exciting.

What are your ultimate career aspirations?
Ms. Smith: Completing a one-year small animal rotating internship is the stepping stone to most residency programs. My ultimate goal is to complete a residency in radiology and diagnostic imaging so that I can become a board-certified veterinary radiologist (DACVR).

What key piece of advice can you offer to aspiring veterinarians?
Ms. Smith: Don’t give up! It took me three application cycles to get accepted into veterinary school and now I’m on my way to an internship program. You get out of your education what you put into it, so always be enthusiastic and willing to learn/try new things.

Why did you choose SGU?
Ms. Smith: I knew a few veterinarians who went to SGU, and I really admired their work ethic and thought process when working up cases. They really enjoyed their time in Grenada and recommended the program to me. I was also excited about living in a new place as I love to travel.

 

 

— Laurie Chartorynsky

 

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