SGU’s Academic Enhancement Program Wins NASPA Gold Award

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St. George’s University’s Academic Enhancement Program (AEP), part of the Department of Educational Services, recently received the Gold award in the NASPA Excellence Awards for Academic Advising, Careers, Graduate, Professional, and related services. These awards, presented by the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA), honor programs that are transforming higher education through innovation, exceptional student support, and effective administration.

“This recognition affirms SGU’s dedication to academic excellence, student development, and continuous educational innovation,” said Asha Lessey-Charles, director of the Academic Enhancement Program at SGU.

The Department of Educational Services’ mission is to provide students with comprehensive tools and resources for academic and professional success. AEP offers personalized support through peer mentorship and faculty advising, helping students develop essential skills such as time management, test-taking strategies, and lifelong learning techniques. These programs provide professional academic support to help students maximize their performance in coursework and licensure exams.

“SGU’s strong graduate outcomes and global presence demonstrate its dedication to preparing students for successful careers in medicine,” said Lessey-Charles. “The University’s emphasis on continuous improvement ensures that students receive a top-notch educational experience tailored to their needs.”

SGU offers robust support services, including health and psychological services, academic advising, non-academic support, and specialized services such as learning disabilities support and residency strategy guidance. Over 98 percent of students take advantage of these services, highlighting the SGU’s holistic approach to student well-being and academic achievement.

A team from SGU will be attending the 2025 NASPA Annual Conference in New Orleans (March 15-19) to present a poster and receive official recognition.

 

— Evan Cobb

 

 

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VIRMP 2025: 37 SGU Veterinary Students + Alumni Secure Competitive Residencies and Internships

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SVM grad collage

Thirty-seven students and graduates of St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine secured competitive veterinary internship and residency positions within the 2025 Veterinary Internship & Residency Matching Program (VIRMP).

SGU-trained veterinarians achieved a match rate of 67.2 percent, above the match rate of 48.7 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).

“Congratulations to all who matched in this year’s VIRMP,” said Dr. Neil Olson, dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine. “This achievement is a testament to your commitment to the veterinary profession and passion for advancing animal healthcare. I hope these opportunities continue to inspire you to learn and grow, making SGU proud along the way.”

Beginning in June, the veterinarians will begin their specialized training in areas such as:

  • small animal internal medicine,
  • emergency and critical care,
  • small and large animal surgery,
  • dermatology,
  • oncology,
  • zoological companion animal,
  • diagnostic imaging, 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.

“The dedication and hard work that our students invest in turning their dreams into reality are clearly reflected in the competitive internships and residencies they secured,” said Dr. Tara Paterson, associate dean within SVM’s Office of Year Four Clinical Training and a 2003 SGU graduate. “We couldn’t be prouder of their hard work and commitment to excellence.”

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

Kristi Cerami, DVM ’25 (expected)

Kristi Cerami, DVM ’25 (expected)

Kristi Cerami, DVM ’25 (expected)

Matched: Small animal rotating internship, Veterinary Emergency & Referral Group (VERG), Brooklyn NY
Hometown: Long Island, NY
Where are you now? Clinical year at the University of Tennessee

What was your reaction to learning that you Matched? I was ecstatic and so grateful to have been chosen by VERG! From the moment I interviewed, I had such a great feeling about the practice and the rapport felt so genuine. I can’t wait to start my internship! 

How does the internship further your career goals? I plan on specializing in small animal surgery. The rotating internship is the next step to reaching that goal, then onto a surgical internship and residency. 

 

Marissa Peck, DVM ’25 (expected)

Marissa Peck, DVM ’25 (expected)

Marissa Peck, DVM ’25 (expected)

Matched: Small animal medicine and surgery rotating internship, Hope Advanced Veterinary Hospital, Vienna, VA
Hometown: Shelton, CT
Where are you now? Clinical year at Texas A&M University

What was your reaction to learning that you Matched? I was very excited to hear that I was matched because my long-term goal is to be a veterinary cardiologist, and they have three full-time and four part-time cardiologists.

How will the internship further your career goals? I’m hoping I can use this internship as a stepping stone to acquire a residency position.

 

John Nugra, DVM ’24

John Nugra, DVM ’24

John Nugra, DVM ’24

Matched: Dermatology residency, Animal Dermatology Group, Tustin, CA
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Where are you now? Small animal rotating internship, Michigan State University

What was your reaction to learning that you Matched? Matching into residency is a whirlwind of emotions—excitement for the journey ahead, fear of the challenges to come, happiness that all the hard work paid off, and pure relief that the waiting is finally over. It’s a mix of nerves and joy, but most of all, it’s the start of something incredible.

How will the residency further your career goals? My goal is to become a dermatologist who not only provides expert care to pets and educates their owners, but also advances the field through research and mentorship.

Matching into a dermatology residency is an incredible opportunity that will help me grow as a clinician, researcher, and mentor. I am grateful for this next chapter and excited to make a lasting impact on my patients and the veterinary community.

 

Gabriela Medrano, DVM ’25 (expected)

Gabriela Medrano, DVM ’25 (expected)

Gabriela Medrano, DVM ’25 (expected)

Matched: Rotating internships in medicine, surgery, and emergency and critical care, Veterinary Referral Associates, Gaithersburg, MD
Hometown: San Juan, Puerto Rico
Where are you now? Clinical year at Cornell University

What was your reaction to learning that you Matched? I was so relieved and happy to find out that I matched at my first option for a small animal rotating internship.

How will the internship further your career goals? I’m interested in sports medicine and rehabilitation, as well as in internal medicine. This internship has a sports medicine and rehabilitation service with a board-certified veterinarian, an internal medicine service, and offers a strong mentorship as well. I want to explore my interests as I become more comfortable practicing veterinary medicine. This internship is the perfect opportunity for me to do that. 

Brianna Jacobs, DVM ’23

Brianna Jacobs, DVM ’23

Brianna Jacobs, DVM ’23

Matched: Specialty internship in oncology, BluePearl Specialty + Pet Hospital, Franklin, TN
Hometown: Tallahassee, FL
Where are you now? Currently working in general practice

What was your reaction to learning that you Matched? I was absolutely thrilled and relieved to find out that I matched! Oncology is a field I am deeply passionate about, and securing this internship is a significant step in my career.

How does the internship further your career goals? My long-term goal is to become a board-certified veterinary medical oncologist. This internship provides the critical hands-on experience and mentorship necessary to deepen my understanding of oncology and prepare for a residency program in the future.

Stephanie Smick, DVM ’24

Stephanie Smick, DVM ’24

Stephanie Smick, DVM ’24

Matched: Large animal internal medicine residency, Purdue University
Hometown: Oswego, IL
Where are you now? Finishing my large animal rotating internship at Purdue University

What was your reaction to learning that you Matched?  It provided affirmation that I am meant to be a large animal internist and continue the pursuit of advancing the collective veterinary knowledge.

How does the residency further your career goals? I would love to end up in a setting that combines teaching students as well as working within clinics.

Adriana Kalaska, DVM ’23

Adriana Kalaska, DVM ’23

Adriana Kalaska, DVM ’23

Matched: Small animal surgery residency, BluePearl Specialty + Pet Hospital Golden Valley, Golden Valley, MN
Hometown: Montréal, Canada
Where are you now? Currently working as a small animal surgery intern at VCA Mississauga Oakville Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Hospital (ON, Canada)

What was your reaction to learning that you Matched? A combination of excitement and relief! Surgery is a very competitive field. Being offered a spot is unbelievably rewarding and validates all of the sacrifices and work that have gone into this process. I’m also very thankful to my mentors, referees, and colleagues who were a major part of my success.

How does the residency further your career goals? This is the final step in becoming a board-certified small animal surgeon with the American College of Veterinary Surgeons.

Emma Wood, DVM ’25 (expected)

Emma Wood, DVM ’25 (expected)

Emma Wood, DVM ’25 (expected)

Matched: Small animal rotating internship, Auburn University
Hometown: Alpharetta, GA
Where are you now? Clinical year at University of Tennessee

What was your reaction to learning that you Matched?  I was very excited and a little nervous knowing I will be moving to a new place.  I was also proud of myself for taking the risk to set myself for the best future.

How does the internship further your career goals? I want to pursue a surgical residency. Completing a rotating internship will help me to become a better, more well-rounded doctor before pursuing surgery.

Lauren Abrams, DVM ’25

Lauren Abrams, DVM ’25

Lauren Abrams, DVM ’25

Matched: Shelter medicine specialty internship, Cornell University
Hometown: Montreal, Canada
Where are you now? I am currently working at the Montreal SPCA as a shelter veterinarian.

What was your reaction to learning that you Matched?  I was stunned when I first saw I had matched with my dream program. But once reality sank in, pure excitement took over. This specific program has been my ultimate goal since before I even started vet school and I have dedicated my life to this field of veterinary medicine. Seeing that match notification felt like watching all those long hours of hard work finally come together exactly as I’d hoped.

How does the internship further your career goals? I’ve been drawn to shelter medicine since childhood. What drives me is expanding access to veterinary care for underserved communities and their animals. This internship is the perfect stepping stone, as it will develop my expertise across the full spectrum of shelter medicine: surgical skills, forensic investigation, population management strategies, infectious disease control, and community outreach programs.

These comprehensive experiences will equip me to make a meaningful impact in shelters where resources are limited but the need is tremendous. My ultimate goal is to combine clinical excellence with innovative approaches to help shelters maximize their impact on animal welfare and public health.

Arvin Azizi, DVM ’25

Arvin Azizi, DVM ’25

Arvin Azizi, DVM ’25

Matched: Small animal rotating internship, Los Angeles Animal Specialty, Emergency & Rehabilitation
Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
Where are you now? Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences

What was your reaction to learning that you Matched?  Ecstatic! They are up there with the most applied-to programs so for them to rank me as their number one is an awesome feeling.

How does the internship further your career goals? I am en route to becoming a veterinary anesthesiologist. Managing pain, enhancing comfort, and optimizing success of a surgery and its subsequent post-operative recovery are the cornerstones to becoming competent in anesthesiology.  My internship will provide me with a heavy caseload and autonomy over my cases, thus challenging me to cultivate those competencies.

 

 

– Laurie Chartorynsky

 

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St. George’s University Names Campus in Honor of Chancellor Charles Modica

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Dr. Charles R. Modica and his wife, Lisa Modica

Members of St. George’s University faculty, staff, and alumni gathered in Grenada to honor the legacy of Dr. Charles R. Modica, its visionary co-founder and chancellor who turned a groundbreaking idea into a global leader in medical education. The SGU community celebrated Chancellor Modica’s impact and leadership since the University’s founding in 1977 with a special dedication ceremony to him on March 3.

During the ceremony, the SGU campus was officially named the Chancellor Charles Modica Campus. A bronze plaque was also dedicated to the Chancellor, which is located at the front of the Chancellery Building, the central administrative building at upper campus.

“Many people have made an impact on this institution over its 48-year history, but none more so than Chancellor Modica,” Dr. Glen Jacobs, SGU provost, said during his remarks at the ceremony. “Today is a celebration of a visionary leader, a true pioneer, a man who has not only shaped the University but has also touched the lives of so many with his caring and compassionate approach. His legacy is profound, and we pay homage to that by formally naming this campus in his honor.”

The naming and plaque dedication ceremonies were also held at the same time as the 2025 Art of Medicine continuing medical education (CME) conference, hosted by the School of Medicine Alumni Association (SOMAA). More than 40 alumni returned to Grenada to attend the CME and celebrate with Chancellor Modica. In addition to SOM alumni, among the 100 guests in attendance were SGU administration, members of faculty, staff, and specially invited guests.

An emotional Chancellor Modica thanked the audience and reminisced about the University’s humble beginnings. He noted SGU’s growth from a single medical school to encompassing four schools with over 31,000 graduates including physicians, veterinarians, scientists, and public health and business professionals across the world.

“I am deeply humbled to have been awarded this honor, and I thank each and every one of you here today,” said Chancellor Modica. “It brings me great joy to see how the University has grown and I’m extremely grateful to the Charter Class for persevering and paving the way for thousands of students who would come after them.”

Chancellor Modica also expressed his thanks and gratitude for the University community.

Mrs. Lisa Modica (left), Dame Gloria Payne-Banfield (center), and Dr. Charles R. Modica (right)

“None of this would have been possible were it not for your hard work, dedication, and commitment. And I especially would like to recognize Dame Gloria Payne-Banfield, who answered the telegram I sent to the Government of Grenada over 51 years ago. If she didn’t reply to me there would be no SGU today,” he said.

A tireless advocate for education, Chancellor Modica’s leadership paved the way for thousands of students worldwide to pursue their dreams in both medicine and later veterinary medicine with the founding of the School of Veterinary Medicine in 2000.

In Grenada, his dedication extended well beyond the medical field to his instrumental role in founding the School of Arts and Sciences and a School of Graduate Studies, opening doors to higher education for Grenadians and the wider Caribbean region. His enduring commitment to the country’s well-being included his service to the Grenada Heart Foundation, the Fund for the Orphans and Elderly of Grenada, The Windward Islands Research and Education Foundation, and to the provision of medical care to those in need.

For his outstanding service to Grenada, he was awarded The Most Distinguished Order of the Nation – Commander 2015. Dr. Modica received honorary doctoral degrees from both Northumbria University and Barry University in honor of his commitment to education and healthcare for all.

“SGU is honored to recognize the tremendous impact Chancellor Modica has had on the lives of so many, and his continued leadership,” said Dr. Jacobs.

 

– Ray-Donna Peters

 

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SGU Expands Admissions Partnership with Dillard University

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St. George's University - Grenada campus

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

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The 5 Most Impactful School of Veterinary Medicine Stories of 2024

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Collage of photos from the top svm stories of 2024

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

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

 

Veterinary students standing over a dog on an examination table

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

Carriacou Animal Hospital dog

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

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

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

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

 

 

Dr. Cuesta Amado standing next to a horse

3. SVM Grad Works Dream Job Caring for Racehorses

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

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

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

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

 

 

4. SVM Hosts Inaugural Career Fair for Students

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

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

 

 

photo of Dr. Christianne Shaw in front of campus

5. SVM Alumna Master of Ceremonies at White Coat Ceremony

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

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

 

 

— Juliette Kimmins

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St. George’s University Announces Admissions Partnership with Suffolk County Community College

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photo of SGU campus

St. George’s University and Suffolk County Community College have established an admissions partnership that grants qualified Suffolk students fast-track status and expedited entry into the St. George’s University School of Medicine or School of Veterinary Medicine.

“St. George’s University is delighted to offer this new opportunity for aspiring doctors and veterinarians from Suffolk County Community College to pursue degrees in medicine and veterinary medicine with us,” said Dr. Marios Loukas, dean of St. George’s University School of Medicine. “SGU is tremendously proud to partner with SCCC and to offer multiple pathways to healthcare careers with flexible options to meet students’ different academic objectives.”

Dr. Edward Bonahue, president of Suffolk County Community College, expressed his enthusiasm for the new partnership: “This partnership represents a significant step forward in providing community college students with a clear pathway forward to advanced degrees in medicine and veterinary medicine. This partnership will help to build a pipeline of highly trained professionals who are well-prepared to meet the growing demand for highly educated healthcare professionals. We are proud to work alongside St. George’s University to make these dream careers a reality for our graduates.”

The partnership creates a “2+2+4” admissions pathway that provides SCCC students who have successfully completed an associate’s degree in arts and sciences, and who proceed to complete a baccalaureate premedical or pre-veterinary medical program at an SGU partner university in the New York area, with admission into SGU’s 4-year Doctor of Medicine or Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program. Suffolk students interested in pursuing this pathway must complete all necessary prerequisite undergraduate coursework, maintain a strong overall GPA and sciences GPA, and score competitively on relevant entrance exams, including the MCAT for the School of Medicine.

The partnership also creates a “2+5” admissions pathway that provides Suffolk students completing an associate’s degree in arts and sciences with admission into SGU’s 5-year Doctor of Medicine program. This program consists of a pre-clinical year and two years of basic sciences, which can be completed on SGU’s campus in Grenada or at Northumbria University in the United Kingdom, followed by two years of clinical rotations in SGU’s network of affiliated hospitals and health systems.

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.

Participating students will be eligible to be considered for all of SGU’s School of Medicine and School of Veterinary Medicine scholarships and grants. SGU granted more than $71 million in scholarships in the 2023-2024 academic year.

 

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SGU Grad Thrives as Grenada’s High Commissioner to UK

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Her Excellency Rachér Croney, MBA ’13, BA ’09, has had quite the whirlwind year since her appointment as High Commissioner for Grenada to the United Kingdom in 2023. The St. George’s University graduate recounted one of the most memorable events in the position so far—meeting with His Majesty King Charles III, which she described as both “a thrilling and humbling experience.”

In her new role, High Commissioner Croney is responsible for promoting diplomatic relations between Grenada and the UK, by developing economic, cultural, and scientific partnerships between the two countries. The scope of issues she handles daily ranges from administrative tasks, such as providing consular services for Grenadian nationals and those wishing to visit or immigrate to Grenada, to making policy decisions that can have a global impact.

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

 

Before a career in diplomacy

High Commissioner Croney graduated with honors from SGU’s School of Arts and Sciences with a bachelor’s degree in liberal studies and later from the School of Graduate Studies with a master’s in international business administration.

While earning her undergraduate degree, the High Commissioner simultaneously interned at a Grenada TV station. During that time, she helped the SGU public speaking team win the Sonic Foundry’s 2007 Global Reach Award at the Rich Media Impact Awards Ceremony in Madison, WI.

“SGU provided me with many opportunities,” the High Commissioner said. “Not many can say that they enjoyed an international education right at home—this was my experience at St. George’s University, and for that I am grateful.”

Following the completion of her degrees, she served as an executive member in both schools’ alumni associations. High Commissioner Croney also worked as a communications specialist within SGU’s Office of University Communications and Publications, as it was then known.

Her experiences at SGU prepared her for the world of diplomacy—particularly learning and engaging with people of different backgrounds and cultures.

“Embracing diversity in culture, working with people from all walks of life, and advocating for Grenada are perhaps some of the things I enjoy most about my job today,” she said.  

 

A newfound passion for diplomacy

When the opportunity to work at the United States Embassy in Grenada came along, High Commissioner Croney eagerly stepped into the new role—certain it would allow her the chance to make a more meaningful impact in both Grenada and the wider Caribbean region.

While there she served as political and economic specialist, where she was the senior advisor to the US Chargé d’Affaires on all political, economic, social, and security issues that impact the implementation of US foreign policy in Grenada and the Eastern Caribbean.

“My years at the US Embassy defined my vision and birthed my passion for diplomacy and international relations,” said the High Commissioner. “It is where I came into my own, and where my job became a career—it felt right, it felt natural, it felt like home.”

High Commissioner Croney served at the US Embassy for almost a decade before being appointed to the prestigious position of High Commissioner for Grenada to the UK last year. She described her year so far as not only exciting but rewarding too.

“At the end of the day there is nothing more fulfilling than working for your country and doing the best you can to help promote its advancement,” she said. “My greatest hope is that during my tenure in London I can contribute to the socio-economic development of my country and play my part in building the beautiful tri-island nation of Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique.”

She looks back on her time at SGU with fondness.

“It is during my years at the University that I grew, challenged myself professionally, and carved out the career path I chose to pursue,” reflected Her Excellency. “I am thankful for the lecturers, staff, and every engagement I had there for they have holistically played a significant part in my journey towards where I am today.”

– Ray-Donna Peters

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St. George’s University Announces New Admissions Partnership with Wilfrid Laurier University

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St. George’s University (SGU) has launched a new admissions partnership with Wilfrid Laurier University that will grant qualified Laurier students fast-track admission into SGU’s School of Medicine.

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

The partnership creates a “4+4” pathway that provides students who have successfully completed a four-year premedical curriculum at Laurier admission to the four-year MD program at SGU. Laurier students interested in pursuing the pathway must maintain a strong undergraduate GPA and complete all prerequisite coursework in the health sciences.

The pathway also includes an option for students to enter the first year of the MD program at SGU’s campus in Grenada after their third year at Laurier, provided they meet the standards of admission.

Students may apply to the pathway upon application to Laurier’s Honours Science program, or while an enrolled student in most Bachelor of Science programs. Qualified students will be eligible to complete the basic sciences component of the SGU MD program in either two years of study in Grenada, or one year at Northumbria University in the United Kingdom and one year in Grenada.

Students’ clinical rotations will take place with SGU affiliates, including those in the United States and the United Kingdom. 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. Students who have graduated from Laurier within the past five years are eligible to apply to the program, meaning the agreement will also benefit Laurier alumni.

“This strategic partnership opens additional pathways into medical education for Laurier students taking many of our science programs and provides our graduates with Laurier-specific scholarships and benefits to support them as they enter medical school,” said Laurier Faculty of Science Dean Anthony J. Clarke. “We are excited to partner with St. George’s University to enhance our program offerings to students.”

Laurier students who are accepted into the pathways with a sufficiently high overall GPA and sciences GPA will be awarded a scholarship of U.S. $85,000 at SGU School of Medicine. Students will also be eligible to be considered for all of SGU’s School of Medicine scholarships. SGU granted more than U.S. $50 million in scholarships in the 2022-2023 academic year.

Graduates of SGU School of Medicine have the option to write exams that allow them to practice medicine in Canada, the UK, or the United States.

SGU Alumni Charity Drive Aids Grenadians Impacted by Hurricane Beryl

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Hurricane Beryl relief efforts

Photos courtesy of Grenada’s Office of the Prime Minister.

Drawing on the generosity and compassion of the St. George’s University community, the School of Medicine Alumni Association (SOMAA) and friends led a successful charity drive this summer to help those impacted by Hurricane Beryl in Carriacou, Petite Martinique, and northern Grenada.

“On behalf of the SOMAA, we are grateful to our SGU family for helping us raise more than $77,000 for this worthy cause,” said Matthew Melamed, MD ’14, MPH ’08, FACEP, president of the SOMAA. “SGU’s connection to the people of Grenada as well as its sister islands, Carriacou and Petite Martinque, is innate. We felt it crucial that we do our part as an organization to support them during their time of need, and we could not have done it without the generous donations from the SGU community and friends. Thank you for your help.”

The monies donated will be used to aid in the re-establishment of medical and clinical services in areas devastated by Beryl.

Hurricane Beryl, which made landfall in Carriacou on July 1, was the earliest forming Category 5 hurricane on record and the first for the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Although the storm was only the third hurricane in almost 70 years to the island, it caused widespread devastation to the northern parishes of Grenada, and severely impacted the islands of Carriacou and Petite Martinique. Many residents there lost their homes and/or businesses, while other areas were uninhabitable.

 

SGU Students Aid in Grenada’s Relief Efforts Following Hurricane Beryl

 

Through a coordinated partnership with the SGU Alumni Affairs department, the Grenada COVID Crisis Group, and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization Grenadians United in Virginia Inc., SOMAA was able to respond swiftly to the humanitarian crisis on the ground.

The Grenada COVID Crisis Group was formed during the global pandemic to organize a relief effort for the island during a time of much uncertainty. The Grenadians United in Virginia Inc. is an organization whose focus for the past 25 years is to extend medical assistance to Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinque, according to Dwight Matthias, MD ’93, secretary of the SOMAA Executive Committee, coordinator of the Grenada COVID-19 Crisis Group, and vice president of Grenadians United in Virginia.

“It was a natural fit for the groups to come together to assist those affected by Hurricane Beryl,” said Dr. Matthias. “It has truly been a team effort—and we will continue to extend our assistance where needed.”

The request for assistance was put out shortly after the storm made landfall, and the response from alumni and friends has been nothing short of remarkable, according to Brendon La Grenade, EdD, SGU vice provost of Institutional Advancement and head of Alumni Affairs.

“This was the first national crisis faced by Grenadians since the COVID-19 pandemic and it is no surprise that our alumni rallied to help the island they once called home,” Dr. La Grenade said. “We cannot thank you enough for being the wonderful humanitarians that you are. We are happy to report that, through efforts like these, the situation on the islands of Carriacou, Petite Martinique, and northern Grenada continues to improve daily. Your willingness to support this effort has truly made a difference.”

SGU also recognizes alumni who have visited, or plan to visit, the island to pitch in with relief efforts.

 

— Laurie Chartorynsky

 

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

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Clinical training

St. George’s University School of Medicine has added four new US clinical sites, offering medical students more locations to gain hands-on training.

Two of the hospitals—Tucson Medical Center in Tucson and Abrazo Community Health Network in Phoenix—are the first two located within the state of Arizona. The other two locations are Georgia Regional Hospital at Atlanta in Decatur, GA and Southern Winds Hospital in Hialeah, FL.

Including the recently added Illinois-based UChicago Medicine AdventHealth La Grange, the new sites add to the 75+ SGU clinical affiliate locations in the US and UK. Importantly the new locations further expand SGU’s breadth of clinical locations outside of the Northeast.

“All of us at SGU are ecstatic to add more hospitals, giving students more location options to complete their clinical training in order to progress from the Basic Sciences into clinicals without delays,” said Dr. Robert T. Grant, SGU’s senior associate dean, clinical studies. “Each of these institutions has a long history of guiding medical students through an enriching and holistic academic experience that will prepare them for residency.”

Core clerkships offered

Both Tucson Medical Center and Abrazo Health will offer students core clerkships, including internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, ob/gyn, and psychiatry, as well as a family medicine rotation. The Arizona sites will begin accepting students at the end of September. Placement will be scheduled by SGU.

Georgia Regional Hospital at Atlanta and Southern Winds Hospital will accept students for their psychiatry rotations. Placement will be scheduled by SGU.

“SGU is committed to preparing our students with the foundation of knowledge and clinical skills to succeed in their medical careers,” said Dr. Marios Loukas, dean of the School of Medicine at St. George’s University. “Our clinical rotations allow our students to gain knowledge of different patient populations in a variety of settings and environments, offering valuable hands-on experience as they complete their final two years of medical studies.”

An audition for residency

A major benefit to SGU’s wide clinical network is that students have the opportunity to form professional relationships with residents, attending physicians, and hospital administration. Given that Abrazo Health has several residency programs associated with the institution, a clinical placement could also eventually lead to a residency interview for students.

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

 

— Laurie Chartorynsky

 

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