SGU’s Class of 2024: School of Veterinary Medicine Celebrates New Grads at Commencement

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SVM Commencement

The St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine celebrated its newest grads the in a ceremony filled with jubilation and enthusiasm. The Class of 2024 made the memorable walk across the stage at commencement, which was held on June 2 at Arthur Ashe Stadium in Queens, NY.

Experience the joy, celebration, and overwhelming pride of new graduates at the 2024 SVM Commencement. View the reel!

SGU Provost Dr. Glen Jacobs began the ceremony with a warm welcome for the graduates and guests in his opening remarks.

He imparted on the graduates the significance of the occasion by saying, “You are not just graduating. You are becoming part of a global family of successful alumni making a difference around the world, and, most important, you are a bridge to our best and the hope for our future.”

SGU Chancellor Dr. Charles Modica then took to the stage to address the graduates. He commended them not only for their dedication to their education and the field of veterinary medicine, but also for being able to endure veterinary school during a global pandemic.

“I recognize what it takes to become a doctor of veterinary medicine,” Dr. Modica said. “I recognize your resilience and your resolve to get where you are today.”

The nearly 200 recent graduates join more than 2,500 School of Veterinary Medicine alumni in the US and around the world.*

Dr. Tara Paterson, president of the SVM Alumni Association and associate dean of fourth year clinical training, said, “Today, I am proud to call each and every one of you my colleague.”

SVM Commencement

Dr. Paterson continued, more solemnly, to deliver a posthumous Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree to former student Madison Kucinick. Dr. Kucinick was beloved by her peers and dedicated to her work through her award-winning research of sea turtles.

Wrapping up the ceremony was SVM Class of 2024 speaker Briana Kinsey-Trimble, MD ’24. Dr. Kinsey-Trimble of Amarillo, TX was struck with awe and gratitude upon learning that her classmates had voted her to be class speaker.

“I’ve been passionate about my classmates’ well-being through this journey, and it’s exciting to get to address my friends and family one more time,” Dr. Kinsey-Trimble shared with SGU. “We made a promise to each other from the beginning that we would see each other on the other side. It’s finally coming true!”

She is thankful for SGU for helping shape her into the person she has always wanted to be—someone kind, caring, motivated, and ready to change the world.

At the ceremony, Dr. Kinsey-Trimble told her peers, “As we step into the world as veterinarians, let us embrace the challenges that lie ahead with courage and conviction. Let us never lose sight of what an incredible privilege it is to care for animals and the profound impact we can have on their lives.”

Following graduation, Dr. Kinsey-Trimble will start her new role as associate veterinarian at Animal Medical Center of Amarillo.

Dr. Neil Olson, dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine, had this message for the recent SVM grads: “The SGU SVM community and I are incredibly proud of the newest veterinarians to join the SVM alumni network. Their resilience and dedication have prepared them well for careers delivering quality care and compassion to animals. Congratulations, Class of 2024!”

Did you miss the ceremony? View the SVM Commencement on YouTube.

 

*Based on number of students who have completed the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program from 2003-2023.

 

—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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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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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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SGU Celebrates International Women’s Day on Campus

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Caylee Cormier , SVM

International Women’s Day is celebrated every year on March 8. It is a day where women around the world join hands in solidarity to advocate for key issues like gender equality. It is a time where people reflect on the incredible achievements women and pay homage to the those who stood courageously to break down barriers and pave the way for women today.  

St. George’s University recognizes the significant role that women play in our global society and as leaders in their professional field of choice. For International Women’s Day, SGU News interviewed several students on campus to learn what this day means to them.

 

View Instagram Reel

 

Natalie Thomas, SOM

 

“International Women’s Day is important to me because it is a celebration of women from all walks of life, coming together in their shared unity and strength to uplift each other.” – Natalie Thomas, School of Medicine 

 

 

Joann Phillip

 

“International Women’s Day really reminds me of the struggles of women and the advancements and achievements we’ve made. And now I’m studying at SGU, something that my great grandmother would have never thought she would have been able to do.” – Joann Phillip, School of Arts and Sciences  

 

 

“International Women’s Day is important to me because it recognizes women all over the world, the roles that we play, and we get to celebrate how far we’ve come.” – Valcina Stoute, School of Arts and Sciences 

 

 

“To me, International Women’s Day is a celebration of women past, present, and future. My advice for any woman pursuing a career in any field is do not give up.” – Mardhalia Charles, School of Arts and Sciences  

 

Caylee Cormier , SVM

 

“I believe women have a natural nurturing capability that I would like to display in my career as a future veterinarian. It allows me to celebrate and represent the hard working and beautiful women who have come before me and paved the way.” – Caylee Cormier, School of Veterinary Medicine 

 

— Istra Bell 

 

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Georgian Court Renews Partnership with St. George’s University for Pre-Med, Pre-Vet Students

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Georgian Court University and St. George’s University (SGU), located in Grenada in the West Indies, are renewing and recommitting to their agreement which creates pathways for GCU students to pursue studies in medicine and veterinarian medicine.

“St. George’s University is thrilled to continue this partnership with Georgian Court University and to offer their most qualified students multiple pathways to a degree in medicine or veterinary medicine,” said Dr. Richard Liebowitz, vice chancellor of St. George’s University. “We look forward to empowering GCU students to pursue their dreams of becoming a doctor or veterinarian.”

The memorandum of understanding (MOU) sets up a 4+4 program with the two institutions. After completing four years of pre-medicine or pre-veterinarian studies at GCU, students who meet the requirements will be granted admission to SGU’s School of Medicine or School of Veterinary Medicine to continue their studies.

It also establishes a 3+4 program, in which students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in biology: biomedical sciences will complete three years at GCU and then be granted entry into the SGU School of Medicine if meeting requirements.

“Georgian Court University has always been committed to creating educational opportunities that help students excel academically and provide the guidance and support they need to achieve their career goals,” said Dr. Janice Warner, provost of Georgian Court University. “Through this partnership with SGU, we can provide a growing number of students interested in medical and veterinary school a clear integrated path into an accredited, reputable medical school with a good track record for residency placement in the US.”

Georgian Court campus

Georgian Court University and St. George’s University are renewing and recommitting to their agreement which creates pathways for GCU students to pursue studies in medicine and veterinarian medicine.

 

To be eligible for the SGU School of Medicine route, students must maintain a 3.4 grade point average and a 3.2 grade point average in the sciences. They also must score within five points of the average scores for entering students on the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT).

For the School of Veterinary Science, students must maintain a minimum grade point average of 3.3 while at GCU and complete a recommended 500 hours of animal experience alongside a veterinarian or animal care professional.

Both programs have options to complete part of the program at SGU, with remaining clinical rotations and education at various SGU affiliates, including those in the United States. SGU School of Medicine works with a network of more than 75 hospitals and health systems in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom offering clinical and ambulatory training. The School of Veterinary Medicine offers clinical training at over 30 affiliated institutions in six countries.

Students who are accepted into the 3+4 or 4+4 programs for medical sciences will be eligible to be considered for all of SGU’s School of Medicine scholarships. SGU granted more than $50 million in scholarships in the 2022-2023 academic year.

For more information about how to apply for the pathways program contact Tracy McCarthy, Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions at Georgian Court University, call (732) 987-2759, or send an email to: tmccarthy@georgian.edu.

 

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

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Christianne Shaw, DVM '12, assistant professor, Small Animal Medicine

What’s it like to be a Master of Ceremonies? Just ask Christianne Shaw, DVM ’12, who accepted the role with pride for the January 2024 School of Veterinary Medicine White Coat Ceremony at St. George’s University.

“January 2008—16 years ago, I was wearing this white coat, sitting right where all of you are, thinking, what did I get myself into,” Dr. Shaw said during her opening comments. “I was nervous and scared, but also so proud. I had finally done it. I got into vet school and here we go. Throughout my three years in Grenada, it was really tough and challenging but also so rewarding. … It was an amazing experience while being at SGU.”

Students in the SVM’s Class of 2028 took to the stage at Patrick F. Adams Hall on January 27 to receive their white coats—signaling the start of their professional journey.

 

Read more about the School of Veterinary Medicine’s recent White Coat Ceremony

 

After attending SGU, Dr. Shaw returned to her home state of Ohio, completing her clinical year at The Ohio State University. She worked as an associate veterinarian, practicing in various small animal clinics. Since graduating from SGU, Dr. Shaw has been a regular visitor to Grenada and recently came back full time, accepting a position as assistant professor in the Small Animal Clinic.

“Being on this beautiful island and St. George’s University meant so much to me as a student that I wanted to be able to come back as an experienced veterinarian and give back to all of the future veterinarians,” she said.

SGU News caught up with Dr. Shaw to learn more about her SGU experience, what she is most excited for as a full-time resident in Grenada, and her advice for veterinary students.

SGU: How did you react when you were asked to be Master of Ceremonies for the White Coat Ceremony?

Dr. Shaw: School of Veterinary Medicine Dean, Dr. Neil Olson and I met over Zoom so that he could personally ask me to be the Master of Ceremonies. It was a huge honor to have such an important role in welcoming the new first-term students into the veterinary profession. It was also exactly 16 years since my own White Coat Ceremony at SGU (January 2008), so the experience was very surreal for me.

 

Christianne Shaw, DVM '12, master of ceremonies, SVM WCC

Christianne Shaw, DVM ’12, accepted the role of Master of Ceremonies with pride for the January 2024 School of Veterinary Medicine White Coat Ceremony at St. George’s University.

SGU: What does it mean to you to be back on island teaching the next generation of veterinary students?

Dr. Shaw: My husband (Mike) and I have traveled back to Grenada yearly since I graduated in 2012 and have dreamed of moving here one day. I am grateful for being given this opportunity with SGU to make that dream a reality.

SGU: What learnings do you hope to pass on to students in the Small Animal Clinic?

Dr. Shaw: I am using all of my experience and knowledge (12 years in small animal general practice) to help prepare future veterinarians to smoothly transition into the working world. I am also excited to learn and grow from the current students since I have been out of school for 12 years.

SGU: What most excites you about being back on island?

Dr. Shaw: The beautiful island and warm weather! I was tired of the cold, long winters in Ohio.

SGU: Favorite class as a student?

Dr. Shaw: My favorite classes as a student were the ambulatory/large animal. I especially enjoyed traveling to different farms and helping the animals and farmers throughout the island. I also really enjoyed the large animal rotations in my clinical year at The Ohio State University. Even though I was planning on going into small animal practice, I appreciated just how different large animal medicine can be!

SGU: How did SGU help you achieve your career goals?

Dr. Shaw: At SGU there was—and still is—an endless supply of help and support from faculty and staff members to fellow students. Everyone worked together to be able to accomplish the amazing goal of being veterinarians. The three years I spent in Grenada thoroughly prepared me to go on to my clinical year at OSU.

SGU: What is your favorite animal to work with?

Dr. Shaw: My favorite animals to work with were at the Cleveland Zoo while I was in undergraduate school. This included fruit bats, rhinos, and even a zebra!

SGU: Any pets? Are they with you on island?

Dr. Shaw: I had brought my 19-year-old kitty to the island, but she unfortunately went missing after being here a few weeks. Mike and I do a lot of traveling so it is easier to not have any pets of my own…I get plenty of snuggles at the clinic!

SGU: What should aspiring veterinarians know about SGU?

Dr. Shaw: Although the island is far away from home for most students, it is an absolutely amazing place to be while accomplishing the dream of becoming a veterinarian.

 

– Laurie Chartorynsky

 

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Future Veterinarians Share What It Feels Like To Be Coated at SVM White Coat Ceremony

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Growing up with two veterinarians in the house, Edith Turpel spent a great deal of her childhood visiting her parents at clinics where they worked. After seeing firsthand what it was like being a vet and their love for the profession, it wasn’t long before Ms. Turpel, a first-term student in the School of Veterinary Medicine at St. George’s University, made the decision to join the family business. At the recent SVM White Coat Ceremony, Ms. Turpel had the privilege of being coated by her parents.

“To be coated by both my parents is the best feeling I’ve ever had,” said Ms. Turpel, who hails from Ontario, Canada. “While visiting my parents at their clinics, I met several SGU grads who praised the high quality of education and the outstanding faculty and staff there—so much so that I couldn’t imagine going anywhere else to start my journey toward becoming a vet.”

 

Ms. Turpel’s parents are incredibly proud of her and her decision to follow in their footsteps.

“Edith has worked extremely hard to get here and we’re so happy we found St. George’s University,” said Dr. Jim Turpel, Edith’s father. “We researched many veterinary medical schools and SGU came out very high in those rankings. We’ve also been down to Grenada a number of times to visit the campus. You can tell that everyone there wants Edith to succeed.”

 

View SVM White Coat Ceremony Instagram reel

 

Ms. Turpel, along with her fellow students in the Class of 2028, took to the stage at Patrick F. Adams Hall on January 27 to receive their white coats—signaling the start of their professional journey. After being coated—sometimes by family members or mentors who had become veterinarians before them, the students then affirmed an oath of commitment by agreeing to uphold the principles of veterinary medical ethics and the highest professional standards.

Hear from three other aspiring veterinarians on how they felt putting on their white coats.

 

 

“Now that I’ve been coated, it feels very real. I’m officially on my way to becoming a vet and I feel extremely motivated to keep going. Originally, I wanted to be a physical therapist, but after adopting an injured dog and rehabbing him for six months to a year, I became immersed in animal medicine. So, I decided to change course and knew that pursuing veterinary medicine was the right path for me.”

– Kaylee Coppola
New York, NY

 

 

“Being coated by my dad and brother was the best feeling ever! As the youngest, I had been to my brother’s White Coat Ceremony here at SGU and now here they are at mine. I want to be a vet because I grew up listening to all these amazing stories that happened at my father’s practice, and I decided I wanted to experience that myself. I chose SGU partly because my brother raved about how great the school was, but mostly I felt that if he could successfully become a vet here then I could too.”

– James Hammett
Spotsylvania, VA

 

 

“I was so excited to be coated by my mentor, Clarence Williams, DVM ’17, because he is someone who has been in my shoes. As an SGU grad, he shared about his own successful journey to becoming a vet and what I could expect when I got here. But nothing he said could’ve prepared me for how beautiful the campus is and how supportive the faculty and staff are. I’ve found a wonderful community here, and I love it. Now that I’ve put on my white coat, I don’t ever want to take it off.”

– Megan Thomas
St. Petersburg, FL

 

View the full SVM White Coat Ceremony on YouTube

 

  – Ray-Donna Peters

Related Reading  

Moving with Family to Grenada? SGU’s Student Family Network Offers Support and Resources

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Student Family Network

How does St. George’s University support students who come to the island with significant others and families? What housing options are available for students with families? What is the schooling like for my kids in Grenada? Is my spouse able to work in Grenada while I’m in school?

These are some of the most common questions asked by students who make the move to Grenada with their significant others and family members.

SGU’s Student Family Network (SFN) (formerly known as the Significant Others Organization) can help. The student organization was established in 1994 as a support system for families of SGU students living in Grenada. Today, SFN prides itself on being a network of spouses, housemates, friends, family, partners, and pets—and offers resources to help them adjust to living on island.

SFN ambassador and School of Medicine student Brooke Hildebrand shared more details about the organization and how students (and faculty) with families can make the most of their time in Grenada.

SGU: What support can the SGU Student Family Network offer to students and their families?

BH: Moving to a new place is challenging. Moving to a whole new country is oftentimes emotionally terrifying! The SFN aims to ease some of the concerns and apprehension of acclimating to a new way of life by providing support, advice, and connections to anyone affiliated with SGU!

From knowing if there are eggs at the store, to finding buddies to go to the beach with, the communication and the community of SFN has proved a lifesaver for me and my family, so I can only hope it can help another in some way shape or form.

Student Family Network

 

View SFN reel on Instagram

 

SGU: What are some examples of resources that SFN offers to students?

BH: We offer various forms of communication options allowing ample questions and intercommunication among participants. Since we are a resource and not a traditional organization, there are no membership fees/dues or requirements for participation!

There are infinite “where to go” and “how to do” types of answers offered to the community through SGU Family Network communication avenues. Among our various social media presences and communication options we have sub-groups aimed toward uniting similar interest-minded individuals. Examples of a few of our group communications include: remote workers, playdates for children, SFN dudes group, book club, t-shirt design, non-kid events, and the monthly event planning groups.

SGU: What other ways do you help students and their families?

BH: Our diverse community has extensive knowledge in all aspects of life on the island, both on and off campus. We can assist with medical professional and dental referrals, lactation options on campus, any pet-related information, car and housing rental information, free time exploring options, and visa and passport renewal.

Importantly, the community bands together when things may seem amiss and jumps to help one another to ensure everyone is safe and well taken care of at all times.

SGU: Does the SFN organize activities? If so, how often?

BH: Yes! Our goal is to host a minimum of one official sanctioned event per month. We had a September kickball game; on Halloween, we trick-or-treated to the various departments on campus and other organizations hosted activity tables for kiddos, and a Thanksgiving end-of-term potluck meal!

In addition to the official activities, we do book club gatherings every

month, and a few participants have hosted gatherings off campus in various locations—some of which included hiking to the waterfalls and an evening beach party!

Student Family Network

SGU: Best piece of advice for students coming to the island with their families?

BH: I would recommend joining any of the SFN communication groups to understand the interworking’s of the island from an SGU point of view. For example, if you are living off campus, how far is a ‘5 minute’ walk going to take in rainy season and what is the terrain of that walk?

The SFN Exchange group may assist those trying to prioritize what to pack and condense their luggage into two bags. Take the time to follow and read what other people are posting or asking about in the groups to enhance your understanding of how to best prepare for the transition.

Connect with the Student Family Network


Website
SGU Student Family Network 

Facebook
SGU Family Network (SFN) 

SFN of SGU 

SFN of SGU Exchange

Instagram
@sfn_sgu

WhatsApp
Join chat

 

— Laurie Chartorynsky

Related Reading  

 

 

Southeast Missouri State University Starts Partnership with St. George’s University for Pre-Med, Pre-Vet Students

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Southeast Missouri State University

Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO) and St. George’s University (SGU), located in Grenada in the West Indies, entered an agreement this month to create a pipeline to medicine and veterinarian studies for students.

“St. George’s is thrilled to form this partnership with Southeast Missouri State University and to offer their most qualified students multiple pathways to a degree in medicine or veterinary medicine,” said Dr. Richard Liebowitz, vice chancellor of St. George’s University. “We look forward to empowering SEMO students to pursue their dreams of becoming a doctor or veterinarian.”

The agreement sets up a 4+4 program with the two institutions. After completing four years of pre-medicine or pre-veterinarian studies at Southeast, students who meet the requirements will be granted admission to SGU’s School of Medicine or School of Veterinary Medicine to continue studies.

It also establishes a 3+4 program, in which students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in biology: biomedical sciences will complete three years at Southeast and then be granted entry into the SGU School of Medicine if meeting requirements.

“We recruit a lot of high-achieving international students who aspire to become physicians,” said Kevin Timlin, executive director of International Education for Southeast. “However, admission to U.S. medical school is very challenging, even more so for international applicants. Our agreement with SGU guarantees all SEMO graduates from the pre-medical program who meet the requirements will gain admission into their program. This is a great opportunity for qualified pre-med students to know that a seat at an accredited medical school is guaranteed.”

“For the last few years, there are more SGU graduates practicing medicine in the U.S. than any other medical school,” Timlin said. “While SGU is in the beautiful Caribbean nation of Grenada, their students do their residencies and internships in the U.S., and the programs seamlessly lead to practicing medicine in the U.S.”

Students who are accepted into the 3+4 or 4+4 programs for medical sciences will receive a $10,000 scholarship to be evenly dispersed throughout the SGU program. Students can apply for the 4+4 or 3+4 program when they apply to Southeast or while enrolled as students.

Interested students can visit SEMO’s dedicated landing page for the partnership with SGU to learn more about program requirements and opportunities.

 

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