How the Dean of Students Office promotes student success

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As the dean of students at St. George’s University, Dr. Lucy Clunes and her team within the Office of the DOS work closely with all of SGU’s schools, non-academic departments, the Student Government Association, and importantly, with individual students, to ensure that the unique needs of the university’s student body are met.

“Our goal is to provide each student with a strong infrastructure that promotes student success,” Dr. Clunes said. “We also encourage, guide, and expect that all students accept individual responsibility for their own personal, professional, and academic development.”

Dr. Lucy Clunes is is dean of students at St. George’s University.

Dr. Clunes shared how the DOS seeks to assist all students, including those studying virtually, and what advice she has for new students.

St. George’s University: What are some aspects of student life that fall under the department’s purview?  

Dr. Clunes: DOS has assistant deans that are dedicated to each school. This allows for these deans to have an intimate knowledge of the student manual as it pertains to each school, making sure that students can navigate all policies and procedures appropriately.

In addition:

  • We coordinate student orientation events each term for all new students throughout SGU’s four schools.
  • Our International Students Office offers excellent support for our international students in everything from visa guidance to how to prepare local food.
  • DOS is responsible for the faculty advisor assignment in SAS and SVM and is now overseeing the SOM college system. This allows us to focus on how to support students not only in their academic ventures but how to optimize their student life and wellbeing.
  • In the School of Medicine, academic advising for both basic sciences and clinical students has recently been moved to under the DOS umbrella as well as the Office of Career Guidance.
  • Claire Purcell, SGU’s director of student campus life, also works with the more than 60 different student organizations to ensure students’ academic, spiritual, and cultural needs are all met.

SGU: How has COVID changed the way that DOS provides support to students?

Dr. Clunes: We recognize that students are under much more stress than in normal years. The COVID pandemic has caused personal, family, health, and financial challenges for our students. DOS is focused on making sure that students know where to find us and the support they need. My main priority is responsiveness—if a student reaches out for help, they should know that they can receive an answer within a short period of time.

Get in touch! 

Email: DOS@sgu.edu 

For students in NU, email: DOSNU@sgu.edu

For students in their clinical years, email: dosclinical@sgu.edu

SGU: What are some examples of changes made to campus to help students during the pandemic?

Dr. Clunes: Assistant Dean David Twum-Barimah has worked to optimize the use of all study venues as well as develop a student-friendly app that will provide live updates on the availability of both individual and group study spaces. We hope this has decreased stress for students and increased their study time as they will not have to walk from venue to venue looking to see what is available.

Another example is related to use of the campus gym. Currently, the gym is open; however previous restrictions in Grenada had meant that the gym had to temporarily close. We worked to make sure that outdoor gym facilities were available and converted inside cardio and yoga classes to outside venues. We recognize the importance of exercise to our students and do all that we can during these challenging times to make sure that students have access to these amenities.

SGU: How do you ensure the needs of students studying online are met?

Dr. Clunes: The COVID pandemic has also led to us all being more familiar with online platforms such as Zoom; this has enhanced the level of support that DOS can offer. Reaching out to students across the world in all schools has never been so easy and felt more personal. A lot of students feel more relaxed during a virtual appointment which leads to them being more open about the challenges that they are facing and allows us to help more. This does not mean that in-person appointments are not occurring. We are happy to offer students phone, Zoom or in-person counseling.

As part of the broader support services provided by the Office of the Dean of Students, the International Students Office (ISO) offers a wide range of assistance and resources to new and returning students.

SGU: What should students know about COVID for the January ’22 term?

Dr. Clunes: While COVID is still providing us all with new challenges, we are here to listen and to advise. We are happy to work with a student’s individual situation and advise on what the best course of action is. For example, if a student tested positive over the break, we can transfer them to online learning until they are able to return to Grenada and can be transitioned back into in-person learning.

SGU: With the Office of Career Guidance now under the DOS, what changes have been made to streamline support for SOM students?

Dr. Clunes: Together with the School of Medicine’s Dean Loukas and dedicated faculty within the OCG, we have redesigned the department to further guide students toward residency starting their first day in medical school.

Our main goal is ensuring that the curriculum delivery and assessment is intertwined with preparing for residency applications and the matching process as early as possible. This will allow students to be even more competitive during the Match process.

For example, interview skills are not something that is developed the day before the interview but far earlier. One of our main goals is to enhance the interview skills of all our students early on.

In addition, SOM academic advisors in basic sciences as well ase clinical years now fall under the umbrella of DOS. This gives us a great opportunity to ensure our medical students have unfractured academic support from day one right up to graduation and beyond.

SGU: What advice would you give to students on campus for the first time?

Dr. Clunes: Don’t be afraid of asking questions, no matter how minor you may think they may be. We are here to help and support you, and if there is something that would make your life more comfortable, and therefore help you to be more successful academically, don’t hesitate to reach out.

SGU: You have been on island for over 13 years. Where is your favorite place for R&R on the island?

Dr. Clunes: Grenada is my home. My kids were born here and know more about Grenada than my home country—the UK. We are so lucky to have beautiful beaches, forests, wildlife, and beautiful sunsets which never fail to relax you after a long day. If you have not yet visited Carriacou, this is one of my favorite places. Life moves a little slower in Carriacou and a weekend away always manages to refresh me.

SGU: How can students get in touch with the DOS?

Dr. Clunes: Students can email DOS@sgu.edu or drop into the office at any time. They can also reach out to me directly at lclunes@sgu.edu.

 

 

– Laurie Chartorynsky

 

 

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In Memoriam: Dr. Ravindra Sharma

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St. George’s University mourns the loss of longtime faculty member Dr. Ravindra Sharma, who passed away on Friday, November 28.

Dr. Sharma joined the School of Veterinary Medicine in 2000 as a professor of veterinary pathology, and as chair of the Department of Pathobiology, a position he held until 2011. In addition, he played a crucial role in helping the SVM earn accreditation from the American Veterinary Medical Association in 2011.

“The SVM would not be what it is today without the vision and leadership of Dr. Sharma,” said Charles R. Modica, chancellor of SGU. “We are extremely grateful not only for the tutelage he provided our students in the classroom but for his contributions in the development of graduate programs and in research.”

“All of us at SGU extend our deepest condolences to Dr. Sharma’s friends and family,” added Dr. Calum Macpherson, dean of the School of Graduate Studies. “Dr. Sharma was an outstanding professor and mentor for our students, and he will be sorely missed.”

Dr. Sharma published more than 190 research articles in peer-reviewed journals worldwide, including research centered around livestock such as poultry, goats, and sheep. For his leadership in research, he was awarded the Pfizer Excellence in Research Award at SGU in 2008.

As associate dean of the School of Graduate Studies, and as associate director of research at SGU from 2003-2017, he played an important part in developing graduate degree programs and was crucial in cultivating SVM students’ own research projects and interests. His book, “A Veterinarian’s Journey in India and Abroad,” details his career in academia and research across continents, and is available for purchase on Amazon.

“He cared a lot about the students,” said Dr. Diana Stone, who worked with Dr. Sharma as chair of SGU’s pathobiology department from 2013-2017. “He would go out of his way to create research opportunities for them.”

Dr. Sharma came to SGU after professorships at the University of Zambia, Shahid Chamran University (Iran), and Great Al Fateh University of Medical Sciences (Libya). His professional associations included being an associate member of the American Association of Avian Pathologists from 1994, and a member of the editorial board of such publications as the Journal of Animal Research, Indian Journal of Veterinary Pathology, and International Journal of Tropical Disease and Health.

Dr. Sharma is survived by his four children: son Pramod and his wife Alka; son Deepak and his wife Bhumika; as well as daughters Sheela and Shilpa.

– Brett Mauser

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5 Stories that Chronicled the School of Veterinary Medicine in 2021

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

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

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

     

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

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

 

– Laurie Chartorynsky

 

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New direct admission partnership with Fisher College

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St. George’s University has announced a new direct admission partnership with Fisher College in Boston. The partnership establishes three pipelines for qualified Fisher College graduates to gain immediate entry to SGU’s Schools of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine with a guaranteed scholarship.

“We are delighted to partner with Fisher College to help its most talented students pursue their dreams of becoming doctors,” said Dr. G. Richard Olds, president of St. George’s University.

Students who wish to pursue a career in medicine or veterinary medicine can take advantage of the “4+4” program, which will allow them to advance to four-year MD or DVM programs at SGU after completing all prerequisites and their bachelor’s degree in biology at Fisher. The program will also grant them a $10,000 scholarship.

Under the “3+4 program,” pre-med students who demonstrate academic excellence will have the option to advance to SGU’s MD program at the end of their third year at Fisher, also with a $10,000 scholarship.

A “2+5” program will allow international students pursuing an associate’s degree in health sciences at Fisher to proceed to SGU’s five-year MD program with a $5,000 scholarship upon graduation.

Students who wish to pursue the direct admissions programs at St. George’s must express interest upon applying to Fisher College. SGU will waive application fees for accepted students and grant priority status for interviews and decisions.

In order to proceed to the St. George’s University School of Medicine, students must maintain a 3.4 grade point average at Fisher and obtain a competitive score on the MCAT. A 3.2 grade point average and competitive score on the GRE are required for entry into the St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine.

“We are excited to offer our students a seamless pathway to a career in medicine,” said Steve Rich, president of Fisher College. “Our direct admission partnership with St. George’s University will ease some of the stress that students, particularly those from abroad, feel about applying to medical school.”

SGU Supply Donation Greatly Enhances COVID-19 Relief Efforts 

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

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

 

– Brett Mauser 

 

 

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SOM students mobilize to assist with COVID crisis in Grenada

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Over the past several weeks, SGU students heeded the call to help those in need by volunteering at mobile testing and vaccination clinics organized by Grenada’s Ministry of Health (MOH) across the island. Photo courtesy of Ministry of Health.

The increase in COVID-19 cases in Grenada has mobilized St. George’s University School of Medicine students to use their passion for medicine and acquired skills toward helping their beloved host country and its communities. Over the past several weeks, many aspiring physicians heeded the call to help those in need by volunteering at mobile testing and vaccination clinics organized by Grenada’s Ministry of Health (MOH) across the island.

“I could not have leaped up fast enough at the opportunity to assist in combatting COVID-19 in Grenada, not only to act in my capacity as an epidemiologist and medical student, but to give back to the community that gives me and the broader SGU community so much and allows us to call their home, our home,” said Term 4 SOM student Cameron Rattray, MPH. “We are one people, one community, and we all must band together in these turbulent times to fight COVID-19 and win this war.”

Under the direction of Dr. Carol McIntosh, the Ministry of Health’s director of hospital services, students traveled in teams across the island to serve in the MOH’s pop-up clinics. Students ranged from Term 1 through Term 5, with School of Medicine faculty advisors also onsite to oversee them.

 

Read the SGU news article on faculty and nursing students aiding Grenada

 

“We are so proud of these students who selflessly gave their time to give back to the Grenadian community,” said Dr. Marios Loukas, dean of the School of Medicine. “Offering to assist Grenada’s healthcare workers during this time of need is the sign of a true calling as a physician. These experiences will become invaluable as they continue their training.”

Among the student volunteer responsibilities—vaccination and COVID-19 testing registration and site setup, assisting the physicians administer tests and vaccinations, providing results and educational material, monitoring patients who received the vaccine for any adverse reactions to the injection, and helping clinic attendees maintain social distancing while waiting for the vaccine.

 

“Offering to assist Grenada’s healthcare workers during this time of need is the sign of a true calling as a physician.”

 

Members of SGU’s Emergency Medicine Club (EMC) were among the student volunteers eager to help. According to EMC President Arya Hawkins-Zafarnia, the lessons learned by students were innumerable and invaluable, falling into two camps: disaster response/emergency preparedness/management and compassionate community engagement.

While everyone’s roles varied, volunteers learned the importance remaining flexible and adaptable to meet the needs of each community’s situation, maintaining direct lines of communication to the physicians onsite, and working as a cohesive unit with a common purpose. They also learned the importance of extending compassion and respect to the Grenadians in need, Mr. Hawkins-Zafarina noted.

“Many students were exposed firsthand to communities that harbor mixed levels of skepticism in the available vaccines,” he said. “During our Friday evening briefing, Dr. McIntosh shared with the group of volunteers some wise words, and I think they were apparent in their relevance all weekend long: ‘Compassion cannot be taught, but it can be learned.’”

That said, “the Grenadians we encountered were incredibly kind and grateful,” Mr. Hawkins-Zafarnia added. “We encountered many that were vaccine-hesitant for both themselves and their families, and we tried our best to inform them of the benefits of getting vaccinated, if eligible. Health literacy is a challenge around the world, but there can be success when you approach people at their level and explain concepts in a culturally sensitive manner.”

Photo courtesy of Ministry of Health.

As attempts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 continues, SGU remains a trusted ally to the Government of Grenada. SGU faculty members have stepped up to volunteer their skills and expertise at the mobile vaccination sites. In addition, students in the School of Arts and Sciences nursing program have been volunteering at health centers across the country, providing Grenada’s healthcare professionals with much-needed assistance, a chance for a break, and camaraderie.

Crucial in the organization and planning of SGU student volunteer activities was the Student Government Association in collaboration with the Department of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences within the SAS, which has become the official liaison between the MOH to coordinate gathering student volunteers for the clinics.

This past weekend, more than 100 students—both School of Medicine and School of Arts and Sciences—volunteered in the communities, with many more asking how they could help. As the Ministry of Health organizes more vaccination events throughout the island, there will be additional opportunities for students to volunteer, according to Dr. Jennifer Solomon, chair and director of Department of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences.

“Altruism is in the DNA of any healthcare worker,” Dr. Solomon said. “It’s wonderful to see students across schools working together to learn about each other’s roles. These are the doctors and nurses of tomorrow.”

 

– Laurie Chartorynsky

 

 

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Want to Ace Your Residency Application? Get Help from SGU’s Office of Career Guidance

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St. George’s University School of Medicine students preparing for residency have a valuable resource to help them on their journey—the Office of Career Guidance and Student Development. Known for short as OCG, the department assists students with tasks like USMLE prep, clinical rotation scheduling, the residency application process, and counseling in specialty and residency program selection.

“If the admissions team has decided the student has what it takes to become a physician, the OCG is there to support the student and help get them to the finish line—residency,” according to Dr. John Madden, associate dean of students and director of the OCG.

“Starting in Term 1, the OCG introduces the pathway toward residency to students—be it in the US or another country—explains the examinations needed, and focuses on the importance of learning the basic sciences to become a great clinician,” said Dr. Madden, a 1981 SGU graduate himself. “At the end of basic sciences, the OCG offers an important talk that helps students prepare for the clinical years, and then during years three and four, there is a series of talks providing up-to-date information about the next steps that must be taken to secure a residency.”

Dr. Maddens shares additional tips on how students can obtain the residency of their dreams.

St. George’s University: How does OCG support students in their journey to residency? 

Dr. Madden: All students are assigned a “primary advisor” when they start clinicals. This advisor is an SGU-faculty member who will act as a sounding board for students as they go through their clinical journey.

Students discuss with their primary advisor the specialty they are interested in, what would be considered an appropriate number of programs to apply to, and the importance of including a parallel specialty. Depending on the specialty of choice and Step scores, the number of applications will vary depending on the student.

All of this information is covered during the “OCG talks,” which are live webinars that are recorded and posted on the OCG website. They’re valuable resources for clinical students who have questions about the residency application process.

 

“The OCG is there to support the student and help get them to the finish line—residency.”

 

SGU: What are the top three qualities residency directors look for in a candidate?

Dr. Madden: Competitive Step scores, letters of recommendation, and the personal statement. However, a program director may look twice at a student showing a keen interest in a specialty. Students should consider doing more than the med school requirement rotation in that specialty, joining a student club or organization related to the specialty, and attending a local, regional, or national meeting of that specialty’s professional organization.

SGU: When do students start preparing their residency applications?

Dr. Madden: Students who are applying to US residency programs begin submitting their ERAS (Electronic Residency Application Service) application in mid-September of the year prior to graduation. Canada and the UK post-graduate training programs are on a different schedule and require different examinations.

SGU: What’s one thing students should prioritize during the residency application process?

Dr. Madden: The most important thing for students is getting their ERAS application submitted on time, even if there is a letter of recommendation that won’t be uploaded until October or a CK score that is delayed.

SGU: How can students ace residency interviews?

Dr. Madden: Practice, practice, practice. Even if a residency interview is virtual, you need to prepare ahead of time.

  • Use the OCG’s Interview Stream program for sample questions.
  • Look over the residency program’s website to become knowledgeable about the specific program and ask questions related to that information.
  • In addition, learn more about the program’s residency directors and assistant directors, such as their research interests so that you can speak intelligently about the topics and ask appropriate questions.

SGU: What other postgraduate opportunities are available through the School of Medicine?

Dr. Madden: SGUSOM has tuition-free programs available to enhance students’ applications next year, such as an online MPH, the MBA program, MScBR, and additional rotations. Our support staff is available to discuss these with students after the Match if a student is unmatched to determine which pathway is best suited for them.

SGU: What is the best way to contact OCG if a student has questions? 

Dr. Madden: With any questions, it is best to start with your primary advisor.  If they cannot answer your query, they’ll refer you to someone who does know. However, students can always reach out to careerguidance@sgu.edu for help.

 

 

– Laurie Chartorynsky

 

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In the Community: SGU Faculty and Students Providing Crucial COVID Testing and Vaccinations in Grenada

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As attempts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 continues, St. George’s University remains a trusted ally to the Government of Grenada, with several SGU faculty members and students stepping up to volunteer in the Government’s most recent initiative—hosting mobile testing and vaccination clinics throughout the island.

The team of SGU faculty volunteers was comprised of Drs. Nilo Alvarez Toledo, Sharmila Upadhya, Vivek Nuguri, Vajinder Singh, Kesava Mandalaneni, Karl Theodore, Subramanya Upadhya, Anthusia Hortance Pavion, Sheiban Shakeri, Edidiong Udoyen, Clayton Taylor, and Allister Rechea. They worked in close conjunction with the Ministry of Health’s team, including Drs. Carol McIntosh, Tyhiesia Donald, Nicole Forte, Nurse Audrey Lyons, and others, to reach out to the population in the countryside parishes of St. David, St. Patrick, St. Mark, St. John, and St. Andrew.

“As a physician, I know firsthand the importance of getting vaccinated,” said Dr. Vajinder Singh, deputy chair in the Department of Pathology at SGU. “With Grenada’s limited healthcare infrastructure and resources, I felt it was my duty to volunteer for the vaccination drive in the hopes that one day soon we can achieve ‘herd immunity.’ Our overall goal here is to reach the most remote parts of Grenada to spread awareness of the importance of getting vaccinated, and to test and vaccinate as many people as we can.”

“We are so proud of these initiatives and all of those who have been in the field to support our beloved host country with all-important testing and vaccinations,” said Dr. Charles Modica, chancellor of SGU. “The country and the citizens of Grenada have supported the University throughout our journey, every step of the way, and we’re glad to have people within our community who can lend a helping hand at this critical time.”

These mobile clinics are considered extremely beneficial in reaching the elderly and the most vulnerable on island, who by themselves would not have been able to go to the hospital or health centers to get vaccinated. The volunteers were able to administer hundreds of vaccines, provide education on the need to get vaccinated, and conduct testing for COVID-19.

 

“The country and the citizens of Grenada have supported the University throughout our journey, every step of the way, and we’re glad to have people within our community who can lend a helping hand at this critical time.”

 

“The need of the hour is to vaccinate as many people as possible against COVID-19,” stated Dr. Kesava Mandalaneni, assistant professor of neuroscience in the SOM. “As a proud Grenadian (at heart), and more importantly as a physician, I feel obligated to stand with my brothers and sisters in the healthcare fraternity, who are working tirelessly to contain the effects of COVID-19 in our communities.”

SGU Nursing Students Heed the Call to Volunteer

Also, eager to lend a helping hand were School of Arts and Sciences students in the SGU Nursing Program. In collaboration with the Ministry of Health, the future nurses have been volunteering at health centers across the country, providing Grenada’s healthcare professionals with much-needed assistance, a chance for a break, and camaraderie. As Grenada enters its second week of a two-week restriction of movements on weekends, the nursing students have also volunteered to work at pop-up testing and vaccination clinics in rural villages island wide.

“I choose to volunteer because I heard the call for help and I decided to answer it,” said Kayonna Jones, a second-year nursing student at SGU. “I also believe that volunteering will not only benefit me as a student in gaining hands-on experience working alongside other healthcare professionals in a pandemic, but also my hard work and commitment to educating, testing, and vaccinating will also help to ensure a safe environment for the Grenadian community.”

“The concepts of altruism and selflessness are synonymous with nursing,” said Dr. Jennifer Solomon, chair and director of the Department of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences, SGU. “Many of our students have volunteered, working above and beyond to assist their colleagues, and local communities during the COVID 19 pandemic. Although students, they have the skills that are needed and, under supervision, can meaningfully contribute—giving support to their future colleagues on the front line. At SGU, we have a commitment to provide excellence in education, which in turn translates to excellence in care. I am so humbled and proud of our SGU nursing students.”

SGU and Grenada Partnership

As many countries, including Grenada grapple with the ramifications of the persistent coronavirus pandemic, St. George’s University has reaffirmed its commitment to its host country. From partnering with the Government of Grenada on managing donations to help combat COVID-19, to providing expert advice from its alumni on Grenada broadcast networks, SGU continues to be a loyal partner in helping to limit the spread of the virus.

In close collaboration with the Government, the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA), the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), and the Windward Islands Research and Education Foundation (WINDREF), a research and education foundation based at SGU, one of the first diagnostic testing facilities in the Caribbean and was established at the True Blue campus. SGU’s testing site has since become a beacon of excellence for the entire region, with its diagnostic team helping to design and set up the Ministry of Health’s testing site at Grenada General Hospital, including training of lab staff and troubleshooting with initial qPCR lab testing.

Additionally, responding to the need of the General Hospital, which had just two ventilators, designed to mechanically assist patients with breathing, for the entire population of more than 100,000 people—St. George’s University utilized its international resources to facilitate the acquisition and delivery of 18 additional ventilators.

SGU also secured tens of thousands of pieces of personal protection equipment, ranging from gloves and gowns to goggles and facemasks, for medical personnel as well as members of the community. In addition, the University was able to bring in 18 combination defibrillator monitors, two handheld ultrasound machines, two portable X-ray machines, as well as blood gas analyzers and supplies.

“The people of Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique are extremely resilient,” added Dr. Mandalaneni. “They have overcome many challenges in the past and will do so once again. With the help from our SGU community, we will all do our part to overcome this challenge together, so that we advance and prosper as one people and one community.”

– Ray-Donna Peters

 

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SGU welcomes two hospitals to clinical training network

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The breadth of clinical training opportunities at St. George’s University just got bigger.

In the coming months, SGU students will be able to complete rotations and electives at two new hospitals—West Suburban Medical Center in Oak Park, IL, and Long Island Community Hospital in Patchogue, NY.

The additions bring SGU’s network to more than 75 clinical centers and affiliated hospitals in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and Grenada.

“Clinical training is the final step before our students graduate, and these new opportunities will only enhance their development into skillful and compassionate physicians,” said Dr. Richard Liebowitz, vice chancellor of St. George’s University. “We have full faith that the doctors and healthcare staff at these institutions will help equip our students with the tools they need to be successful MDs.”

West Suburban Medical Center

At West Suburban Medical Center, SGU students will be able to do rotations in family medicine, internal medicine, OB/GYN, pediatrics, psychiatry, and surgery. It becomes the fourth clinical center or affiliated hospital based in Illinois, joining Humboldt Park Health, Loyola MacNeal Hospital, and Saint Anthony Hospital.

Long Island Community Hospital, or LICH, joins SGU’s network of more than 15 clinical training sites in New York, and the easternmost location on Long Island. SGU clinical students can currently complete electives at LICH, and core rotations will become available in the coming months.

– Brett Mauser

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America Needs More Doctors: SGU President Writes Op/Ed for The Hill

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The Hill has published an op/ed by St. George’s University President Dr. G. Richard Olds titled “To get the doctors we need, expand their opportunities to train,” which focuses on the need to increase postgraduate opportunities in the US.

In the published piece, Dr. Olds stated that America will face a shortfall of up to 124,000 doctors by 2034, according to data from the Association of American Medical Colleges.

“This physician shortage will disproportionately hurt historically marginalized communities, where many people already struggle to find care,” Dr. Olds wrote. “Funding more residencies — so that more newly minted MDs can actually join the physician workforce — is the most straightforward solution to the doctor shortage.”

While the number of residency positions has been growing in recent years, “given the scale of the doctor shortage, we need even more,” he wrote.

 

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