SVM White Coat Ceremony: What does it feel like to be coated?

SVM Fall 2023 White Coat Ceremony - group picture

A mixture of nervousness and excitement resonated on campus as the newest class of veterinary medical students received their white coats. The Term 1 veterinary medical students were coated during the St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine White Coat Ceremony, held on September 2 at Patrick F. Adams Hall.

 

 

White Coat Ceremonies are a storied tradition within veterinary medical school. The ceremony signifies students’ official beginning on their professional journeys to becoming veterinarians. During the event, a white coat is placed on each student’s shoulders—sometimes by family members or mentors who have become veterinarians before them. Students then affirm an oath of commitment by agreeing to uphold the principles of veterinary medical ethics and the highest professional standards.

Wondering what it’s like to be coated? Hear from four aspiring veterinarians on what it felt like to experience the milestone event.

 

Benjamin Self, SVM student, during WCC

 

“It feels surreal. Putting on the white coat just made things a little bit more of a reality for me. And having my mentor coat me was one of the best things that I could have ever wished for. Getting the white coat signifies for me that I’ve definitely been adopted into the profession and that I’ve achieved goal one in this whole marathon of becoming a veterinarian.”

– Benjamin Self
Tulsa, Oklahoma

 

 

Tatyana Thompson, SVM student, at White Coat Ceremony

 

“I come from a family of doctors, lawyers, bankers, and teachers. So, putting on my white coat is very symbolic because it’s the start of me becoming the first veterinarian in my family. I felt inspired by the White Coat Ceremony. It made me feel like this is actually happening and that this is where I’m meant to be.”

– Tatyana Thompson
Nassau, Bahamas

 

Nicholas Aaron, SVM student, at White Coat Ceremony

 

 

“The White Coat Ceremony was everything I thought it would be and more. I’m a bit emotional right now. When I put on the white coat, I felt one step closer to fulfilling my childhood dream of becoming a veterinarian. My grandfather was also a great inspiration to me and I’m wearing his tiepin to honor him today. It’s a reminder that I wouldn’t be here without him.”

– Nicholas Aaron
Trinidad and Tobago

 

 

Taylor Edwinson, veterinary student, at SVM White Coat Ceremony

 

“One of the reasons I chose to come to SGU was because of my mentor, Felicia Gutierrez, DVM ’20. I’ve known her since I was 16—when I was just a baby vet tech, and she was my head vet tech. I felt honored to have her coat me. I’ve heard so many great things about the SVM program from Felicia and other alumni. And after putting on my white coat, I feel it’s the start of what I’ve been working so hard for, and it gives me the motivation to continue on.”

– Taylor Edwinson
El Paso, Texas

 

 

 

   – Ray-Donna Peters

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SGU True Blue Campus Gets a Mini Makeover for Term Start

As St. George’s University prepares to welcome its newest students for the August 2023 term, the University has made several improvements to enhance its picturesque True Blue campus. These changes include several new spaces for new and returning students to explore.

“We can’t wait for our students, faculty, and staff to return to share these improvements to our already beautiful campus,” said Dr. Glen Jacobs, provost at SGU. “With students’ success as our top priority, these additions and renovations will continue to make SGU an outstanding place to live and learn.”

When construction is complete, the campus will feature greater capacity for more hands-on training and access to new technologically-advanced equipment—with the goal of further enriching campus life and the student experience.

Here are a few of the expansion and redevelopment efforts students, faculty, and staff can look forward to enjoying this term.

  • SGU Bookstore: The bookstore will be sporting a brand-new look. New flooring, new doors, and track lights were added to modernize the store, where students have access to all of their SGU merchandise needs.
  • Welcome Centre: At the request of SGU’s Student Government Association (SGA), SGU has increased the seating capacity in the Welcome Centre’s food area. A wraparound quartz countertop was installed, as well as fixed high-top tables with new stools. Electrical outlets were also installed around the perimeter of the countertop so that users can charge their electronics as needed. This new renovation will provide roughly 40 seats in the air-conditioned area.
  • Charter Hall Radiology Lab: SGU completed Phase 1 of renovations for the Charter Hall Radiology Lab that allows the lab to support live-animal training. The next phase will be to complete an interior upgrade including new furniture.
  • New Classrooms: In the coming weeks, the top floor of St. David’s Hall will be transformed to incorporate two additional classrooms and a breakout room. Each classroom will hold 120 students and will have the latest audio/visual technology with recording capabilities. The classrooms will be designed in the group study format with large tables and outlets conveniently located in the floor at each table. Scheduled to be completed by August 2023.
  • SVM Communications Rooms: The south side of the top floor of St. Andrew’s Hall will be completely refurbished to construct seven new rooms to support the SVM Communications curriculum. The area will also feature a large classroom geared towards communications training. Each room will be equipped with the newest A/V tech with recording capabilities, allowing students to view their recorded sessions right after completion. Scheduled to be completed by August 2023.

 

  • SGU Bookstore – new doors (front entrance)

  • SGU Bookstore – inside display

  • SGU Bookstore – branded merchandise

  • SGU Bookstore – branded merchandise

  • Welcome Centre – new seating

  • Welcome Centre – wraparound quartz countertop

  • Charter Hall Radiology Lab – live-animal training space

“SGU provides an invaluable campus experience for all, and we believe these improvements will continue to do just that,” said Christina Verderosa, SGU’s director of operations. “This term, our campus community will have full access to the facilities that set SGU apart as a leader in providing a unique and exceptional student experience.”

– Ray-Donna Peters

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See the Photos: Aspiring Physicians Take Sacred Oath at White Coat Ceremony

It was all smiles as the newest class of medical students eagerly awaited to don their white coats at the St. George’s University School of Medicine White Coat Ceremony. The future physicians were cheered on by their family and friends as they walked across the stage on April 15 at Bourne Lecture Hall on SGU’s True Blue campus.

 

During the ceremony, students are cloaked in white lab coats by various members of SGU administration and faculty or sometimes family members and mentors who have become doctors before them. Students then recite the Oath of Professionalism, where they pledge to honor the sacred trust and privilege society places on medical professionals.

What was it like to be coated? Check out the photos from the most recent SOM White Coat Ceremony.


  • Nerves and excitement filled the air as students waited patiently for their name to be called.

  • Dr. Marios Loukas, dean of the School of Medicine welcomed the Class of 2027 and shared three competencies they should always keep in mind—adaptability, positivity, and sacrifice. But above those three, most importantly, they should put their patients first.

  • This year’s keynote speaker was Dolland Noel, MD ’97, assistant dean of clinical studies, Grenada at SGU and head of the Clinical Training Unit at the Grenada General Hospital. A proud alum, Dr. Noel congratulated the students and reminded them that they are not only part of a fine institution but are also part of an amazing family.

  • With both his parents being doctors, SOM Term 1 student, Eric Lang felt privileged to have had a window into the profession that he also had fallen in love with. Coated by his proud dad, Dr. Thomas Lang, a rheumatologist from Baltimore, MD, Eric was grateful for his experiences scribing for his dad and conducting research at the R. Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center.

  • Shivani Rao, an SOM Term 1 student from New Jersey, was happy to follow in her father, neurologist Dr. Chitharanjan Rao’s footsteps and share in the surreal moment of being coated by him.

  • Being at SGU felt like a dream come true for SOM Term 1 student Tina Tran. Originally from Vietnam but now living in Tallahassee, FL, her parents were delighted to travel to Grenada to support her on her big day.

  • SOM Term 1 student Shomari John has spent most of his life working toward achieving his goal of becoming a physician. He was ecstatic to finally be on his way, and though his family back in Trinidad and Tobago couldn’t be there with him, they watched the ceremony online and cheered him on from afar.

  • It was ear-to-ear smiles for SOM Term 1 student Leah Ayad and her father, Dr. Onsy Ayad, as he coated her at the White Coat Ceremony. Originally from Egypt but now working as a pediatric intensivist in Columbus, OH, Dr. Ayad was proud his daughter understood the huge responsibility it was to take care of another human being and chose to join the medical profession.

  • The ceremony concluded with students and other physicians in the audience reciting the Oath of Professionalism—pledging to uphold the highest ethical standards while treating their patients.

  • After the ceremony, students joined their friends and family to capture photos commemorating the special day.

  • SOM Term 1 student Britton Swisher, his wife Mary, and their twins Charlotte and James, share a moment with SGU Chancellor Dr. Charles R. Modica and his wife Lisa.

 

– Ray-Donna Peters

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Photos from InVeST 2023: Conference Goers Travel to Grenada to Learn Latest Trends in Veterinary Simulation

 

More than 120 veterinary experts traveled to St. George’s University’s True Blue campus earlier this month for the 7th International Veterinary Simulation in Teaching (InVeST) Conference, where they spent three days attending interactive sessions on the latest trends in veterinary simulation and teaching best practices.

InVest conference goers, which included veterinarians, InVeST members, representatives from educational institutions, researchers, students, and more than 50 faculty, staff, and alumni from SGU’s School of Veterinary Medicine, among others, learned new trends and practices in the specialized field, and had the opportunity to network with peers while earning continuing education credits.

The use of simulation is a rapidly growing and exciting area of teaching practices within veterinary medicine. The educational practice uses technology—including virtual and augmented reality, 3D models, and more—to train veterinary technicians, nurses, and veterinarians on the healthcare needs of small companion animals and farm animals, reducing the need to use live animals.

The conference featured three keynote speakers:

  • Daniel Fletcher, DVM, PhD, faculty member of Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, who presented on the topic of immersive simulation in veterinary education;
  • Dave Killpack, BA-BPMI, founder of Illumination Studios, who presented on the topic of building connections across disciplines; and
  • Jenny Moffett, BVetMed, MSc, educationalist and faculty developer at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland Health Professions’ Education Centre, who presented on the topic of applications of simulations-based learning.

Additionally, on the final day of the conference, the winners of the best research poster and best oral presentation were announced:

  • Best poster presentation: Dr. Carolyn Kerr, a professor at the University of Guelph, Ontario Veterinary College, for her poster about the “Development of a Bovine Paravertebral Block Model.”
  • Best oral presentation: Dr. Francesca Ivaldi, associate professor in SVM’s Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, for her presentation about the “Development of a Comprehensive Simulated Patient Model for the Physical Examination of the Dog.”

Didn’t attend? Check out our top photos from the InVeST 2023 conference.

  • The view from the third floor of the Andrew J. Belford Centre provided a picturesque backdrop for those attending the InVeST 2023 Conference.

  • More than 120 participants from nine countries attended the conference, which explored the latest techniques and technology within the rapidly growing field of veterinary simulation.

  • Keynote speaker Dr. Daniel Fletcher, a faculty member at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, has been building simulators for veterinary education since 2009 and is the primary developer of Open VetSim, an open-source veterinary simulation platform.

  • Several sponsors were on hand, including Vetiqo, to showcase various simulation devices to conference goers. The models displayed are used in training veterinarians, farmers, and veterinary technicians as well as in experimental animal science.

  • Fabiola Casanova Crespo, SVM Term 5 student, attended InVeST 2023, as part of a group of students representing companies such as Banfield Pet Hospital that sponsored the event.

  • Dr. Francesca Ivaldi accepts her award for Best Oral Presentation.

  • Dr. Carolyn Kerr, a professor at the University of Guelph, Ontario Veterinary College, accepts her award for Best Poster Presentation.

  • Dr. Arend Werners, assistant dean of academics and chair of the SVM planning committee for InVeST 2023, thanked participants for attending the conference, along with fellow committee members, Drs. Annie Corrigan, Firdous Khan, and Heidi Janicke (left to right).

 

– Ray-Donna Peters

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Photo Diary: Class of 2027 Begins Journey as Future Physicians at Spring White Coat Ceremony

It was an emotional day for the newest class of medical students at St. George’s University. Nervousness mixed with excitement filled the air as students took to the stage at the School of Medicine White Coat Ceremony, held on January 28 at Patrick F. Adams Hall.


During the ceremony, which signifies students officially beginning their journey to becoming physicians, a white coat is placed on their shoulders—often by family members or mentors who have become doctors before them. Later, they would each recite the Oath of Professionalism, in which they pledged to honor the sacred trust and privilege society places on medical professionals.

What was it like to be coated? Check out the photos from the White Coat Ceremony.


  • It was all smiles, as students eagerly awaited their name being called for their turn to walk across the stage and put on that white coat.

  • But first, a few warm words from SGU Chancellor Dr. Charles R. Modica. The chancellor shared his appreciation for how far the University had come and his excitement as SGU approaches its 50th anniversary.

  • Dr. Modica was followed by this year’s keynote speaker, Dr. G. Richard Olds, president emeritus of SGU and a tropical disease specialist. In his address he shared three touching stories providing lessons on what it means to be a good physician.

  • Dr. Olds also had the pleasure of coating his son, Trevor Olds in this heartfelt moment—an experience the Olds family will treasure.

  • Trevor Olds and his father, Dr. G. Richard Olds

  • Also sharing a moment on stage was SOM Term 1 student, Carlie Hanlon who had the privilege of being coated by her grandfather, Dr. Robert Hanlon—a retired physician who practiced internal medicine and cardiology. The New Jersey native praised his granddaughter, confident that she will make a wonderful physician.

  • Carlie Hanlon and her grandfather, Dr. Robert Hanlon

  • Holding back tears was Dr. Patrick Borgen, as he coated his daughter Dana Borgen and her fiancé Ezekiel Sanchez. The high school sweethearts chose to attend SGU together after meeting several SGU alumni residents at Maimonides Medical Center where Dr. Borgen serves as chair of the Department of Surgery.

  • Already part of the SGU family, Frances Emmanuel, a Grenadian staff member in the School of Veterinary Medicine’s Small Animal Medicine and Surgery (SAMS) Department, couldn’t be any prouder of her daughter Shanique Emmanuel, BSc ’22, who is on track to becoming the first doctor in their family.

  • Also, now a part of the SGU family is SOM Term 1 student Rashiqa Abdel-Jabbar. She left her Louisiana home to join her cousin, SOM Term 2 student Haneen Awawda in fulfilling her dream of becoming a doctor here at SGU.

  • Twins Mark and Michael Yassa are as different as night and day, except in their pursuit of becoming physicians. Although older by one minute, it was Mark who followed his brother Mike, a Term 2 SOM student from Toronto to SGU.

  • After receiving their white coats, the ceremony ended with students and other physicians in the audience reciting the Oath of Professionalism—pledging to uphold the highest of ethical standards while treating their patients.

 

– Ray-Donna Peters

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

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

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

Commencement 2022

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

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

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

School of Medicine reaffirms accreditation

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

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

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

Match Day 2022

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

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

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

Groundbreaking advancements in cardiology

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

Read: Cardiologist From Grenada Pioneers Robotic Procedure In Outpatient Setting

Return to campus

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

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

 

— Laurie Chartorynsky 

 

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

 

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

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

SGU Island Veterinary Scholars Program (Boehringer Ingelheim) 

Adrian Jones, Jillian Luscinski, Niharika Verma

Outstanding Colleague Awards

Term 1: Cheyenne Koinzan

Term 2: Becca Jenkins, Alexandra Prince

Term 3: Sydney Garcia

Term 4: Sudarshini Coimbatore, Paige Coughlin

Term 5: Molly Gin, Gabrielle Rivera

Term 6: Briana Kinsey

Dean Olson’s Award for Academic Excellence

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

Adrienne Lotton Memorial Award

Briana Kinsey

Zoetis Revolution Awards of Excellence

Small Animal Internal Medicine: Madison Kucinick

Small Animal Surgery: Daniel Ingram

Equine Medicine and Surgery: Acacia Johnson

Food Animal Medicine and Surgery: Megan Gilmore

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

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

Student Research Award: Adrian Jones

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

Amanda Rottman Torres

SVM Alumni Scholarship Award 

Brianna Auino-Moreta

Giant Paws Giant Hearts Foundation “Hercules” Award 

Cobi Gilbeau

PAWS Recognition for Term 6 Facilitators

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

SCAVMA: Student Chapter of the AVMA

SAVMA Award: Carley Jones, Sloane Hoffman, Ashley Schimshock

Most Outstanding E*Board Member: Fabiola Casanova-Crespo

The Feral Cat Project 

Most Valuable Trapper: Ana Villarreal

Most Valuable Faculty/Staff: Francesca Ivaldi

Veterinary Public Health Committee

One Health One Medicine Community Leader Award: Cassandra Morales

SGUSVM Large Animal Society

Ace of Initiative Award: Ashlyn Dykes

**NEW** IVMC: Integrative Veterinary Medicine Club

Outstanding E-Board Member: Heidi Beck

SVM Wellness Committee

Wellness MVP Award: Eryn Ebinger Christian

**NEW** WAG: Wellness Aide and Guidance

The Tail WAG Award: Dr. Tara Paterson

AAARF: Angels in Armor Animal Rescue Fund

Friends of AAARF Awards: Sara Miner

The Archangel Award: Dr. Thomas Hanson

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

Outstanding Faculty: Dr. Anne Corrigan

Excellence in DEI: Paige Coughlin

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

Internal Medicine MVP Award: Patrick (JJ) Byrnes

SVECCS: Student Chapter of the Emergency and Critical Care Society

Outstanding 6th Termer Award: Amanda Rottman

SCASV: Student Chapter of the Association of Shelter Veterinarians

Shelter Scholar Award: Victoria Flaherty

Shelter Star Award: Marta Lanza-Perea

SCAVDS: Student Chapter of the American Veterinary Dental Society

Superior Extractor Award: Dr. Francesca Ivaldi

SNP: Spay Neuter Pothound

Pothound Student Hero Award: Brianna Kroning

Pothound Faculty/Staff Hero Award: Quacy Matthew

SCACVP: Student Chapter of the American College of Veterinary Pathologists 

The MVP (Most Valuable Pathologist) Award: Taryn Paquet

EWS: Exotics and Wildlife Society

Avian Flock Leader Award: Alexandra Colella

EWS and VSHS Double Whammy Award: Dr. Sophie Moittie

VSHS: Veterinary Student Herpeteogical Society

The Gallant Gecko Award: Kaylee Freeman

WVLDI: Women’s Veterinary Leadership Development Initiative

WVLDI Warrior Award: Bianca Pinto

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

MVP: Most Valuable Porpoise Award: Rayne LeBlanc

SVM Surgery Club

The Sharpest Scalpel Award: Brian Norton

SGA: Student Government Association

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

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

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

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

George B. Daniel Award: Brie Kinsey

The Pinckney Parasitology Award

Crissy (Janeila) Benjamin and Helena Curbelo

DES Recognition Awards

Emily Shin, Cobi Guilbeau

Diana Stone Public Health award

Janine Wettergren

SGUSVM Outstanding Staff Awards

Technical Staff: Curtis Hopkin

Administrative Staff: Serana Patino

Zoetis Award for Research Excellence

Dr. Arno Werners

Hill’s Golden Apple Teaching Award

Dr. Talia Guttin

Alpha Delta Chapter of the Society of Phi Zeta

Fall 2022 Inductees

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

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

– Ray-Donna Peters

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

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

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

 

 

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

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

The seminar focused on the following areas:

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

 

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

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

– Ray-Donna Peters

 

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Back to School: What’s new on the True Blue Campus

 

Welcome back! For many students, this is either their first time on St. George’s University’s iconic True Blue campus or their first time being back in Grenada since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Here is a rundown of the new and exciting places they get to explore upon their return.

“There is nothing like experiencing a vibrant St. George’s University campus with all our students, faculty, and staff back together,” said Dr. Glen Jacobs, provost at SGU. “We’re excited to share these improvements with our campus community. This term, our students on the True Blue campus will have full access to the facilities that make SGU such an outstanding place to receive a world-class education.”

Over the past 22 months, several expansion and redevelopment projects have been completed at SGU in preparation for the return of its growing campus community. This includes the opening of the Eric Gairy Pavilion, where up to 282 students can convene for outdoor study, and the Beachfront Pavilion, which has a capacity for 324 students to conduct group study. Students on campus now have 52 percent more individual study spaces to choose from, following renovations with new carrels in Founders Library, Lower Modica Hall, Lower Taylor Hall, St. David’s Hall, St. Andrew’s Hall, and St. John’s Hall. SGU also recently updated its existing 56 clinical skills rooms with the newest technology—adding another 28 rooms and a new control center.

The goal of all these expansion and redevelopment efforts is to enhance campus life and the student experience. Additional enhancements students, faculty, and staff will be able to enjoy on campus starting this term include:

  • New SVM Faculty Building: The latest SVM building features 34 brand new offices, a conference room, a reception area, and a small kitchenette. It was completed earlier this month and faculty have already started moving into their new digs.
  • Marion Hall Renovation: The project included a massive expansion and upgrade of all research spaces. A highlight of the project is the student lab, which has now more than doubled in size and was completely renovated to include new furniture, fixtures, and a state-of-the-art AV system. Scheduled to be completed by August 2022.
  • SimLab Renovation: Not just a renovation but also a relocation—the SOM SimLab has moved from Westerhall to the 2nd floor of St. George’s Hall. For this renovation, 22 hospital simulation rooms were constructed, each featuring an administrator room, state-of-the-art training equipment, and fully outfitted with new furniture and fixtures as well as training mannequins. The entire floor will have a new AV system, touch-screen InFocus monitor, and a dedicated control room on the same floor for the lead administrator to monitor all rooms simultaneously. Scheduled to be completed by September 2022.
  • Happy’s Café: Located on lower campus, opposite of the Maintenance Department, the new café is poised to become the campus’ newest ‘instagrammable’ hot spot. Scheduled to be completed in early September 2022.

 

Image 1: New SVM faculty building (front entrance); Image 2: New SVM faculty building (back entrance); Image 3: Marion Hall renovation; Image 4: Clinical Skills training room; Image 5: Happy’s Cafe

 

Since its inception 45 years ago, the University has erected more than 65 beautifully designed, functional buildings along the True Blue peninsula under the guidance of visionary architect Andrew Belford, SGU’s first director of admissions. Drawing inspiration from this past work, SGU continues to enhance its picturesque campus filled with striking neo-Cape Colonial buildings—with many contemporary advancements, making it an ideal place to learn and live.

“We can’t wait for the SGU community to experience the enhancements we’ve made to an already stunning campus,” said Christina Verderosa, SGU’s director of operations. “These various expansions and renovations will no doubt contribute to students’ academic success as well as an amazing campus experience for all.”

– Ray-Donna Peters

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Celebrating Pride Month: How to be an ally to the LGBTQIA+ community

SGU students celebrate Pride Month.

Each year, the LGBTQIA+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer and/or Questioning, and Asexual and/or Ally, plus) community celebrates its liberation movement throughout the month of June.

Named “Pride Month,” it is a chance for people who identify as LGBTQIA+ and others, such as allies—heterosexual and cisgender people who support equal civil rights, gender equality, and LGBTQIA+ inclusion movements/efforts—to gather and commemorate both the struggle and challenges faced as well as the positive changes made to acknowledge and support this group.

But what does it mean to be an ally to underrepresented groups like the LGBTQIA+ community, and how can we all support these members of the St. George’s University community in our day-to-day lives?

To offer perspective, meet Gabrielle Rivera (she/her), the incoming fall term president of Pride & Equality SGU student club and a Term 5 School of Veterinary Medicine student, shared tips on how we can all become allies to underrepresented groups such as LGBTQIA+ people, and why observances like Pride Month can elevate the importance of diversity and inclusion and create a community of mutual respect and support.

St. George’s University: What does Pride Month mean to you? 

Ms. Rivera: Pride Month means representation for the marginalized LGBTQIA+ community by promoting equal rights and self-affirmation. It allows our community to celebrate, be visible, and stand up for the fundamental right to love. Our ability to celebrate Pride Month would not have been possible without our lesbian, gay, bisexual, and trans minority groups of color in the 1960s. Their courage to stand up for equal rights paved the way for LGBTQIA+ folks to be included. I am thankful for their determination, and I hope our community can keep taking steps forward so one day we won’t have to “come out” anymore.

 

 

SGU: How can students, faculty, and staff in the SGU community be an ally to all? 

Ms. Rivera: Allyship is such a pivotal part of our community, and we encourage our allies to join us as we continue to create a safe space for our community at SGU. Allowing yourself to be an ally helps the LGBTQIA+ community feel safe and seen within your presence.

  • One way to be an ally can include integrating inclusive language in your everyday life. Asking someone their pronouns when you first meet them shows you are open-minded and inclusive.
  • Another great way to be an ally is becoming involved in the events/opportunities for the LGBTQIA+ community by the Pride and Equality club or the other clubs/events on campus.
  • Denouncing anti-LGBTQIA+ comments or jokes during your everyday life helps the fight against the discrimination that is still present. All of your allyship efforts help build up our community as we continue to push for acceptance and understanding.

 

“Allowing yourself to be an ally helps the LGBTQIA+ community feel safe and seen within your presence.”

 

SGU: What does it mean to be supportive of all different walks of life? 

Ms. Rivera: When you are supportive of all different walks of life you are open to all people despite their gender, sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity, etc. You create a safe space for someone to be their authentic self without judgement.

SGU: How can we create a community of mutual respect and support? 

Ms. Rivera: We create a community of mutual respect and support by the acknowledgment that not everyone is the same. Even though you may not understand someone’s identity or sexual orientation, you still hold mutual respect and support for that person. This will bring togetherness within a community.

SGU: How do observances like Pride Month elevate the importance of diversity and inclusion in healthcare? 

Ms. Rivera: Observances like Pride Month elevate the importance of diversity and inclusion in healthcare by bringing awareness to the essential need for embracement towards all different people no matter their identity or sexual orientation. Having acknowledgements that promote diversity allow healthcare professionals to live their lives freely and with integrity as we give back to our human or animal patients. Creating a more accepting environment for medical workers will only help people feel safe and comfortable in their work environment amongst colleagues.

SGU: How can the SGU community get involved with P&E SGU?

Ms. Rivera: All members of the University are eligible for membership within P&E SGU including faculty, students, and staff. You can join by filling out our form. Also follow us on Instagram @PrideandEqualitySGU and Facebook Pride & Equality SGU.

 

 

 

–Jessica Epps and Laurie Chartorynsky

 

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