Why You Should Join the SGU AMSA Chapter

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Photo courtesy of SGU AMSA chapter.

With more than 500 members, the St. George’s University chapter of the American Medical Student Association (AMSA) is the organization’s largest international chapter and one of more than 60 student-led clubs hosted by the University.

“It is a great way to meet medical students at other schools,” said AMSA member Azka Iqbal, who served as the chapter’s president during the fall 2021 term. “AMSA national has opportunities that are one of a kind. You can connect with leaders in different medical fields and the experience can be life changing.”

The student organization is also a vital part of the Grenadian community providing health fairs and blood drives, and promoting medical education throughout the island.

In January, the SGU AMSA chapter welcomed Jeanette Carillo, a Term 2 School of Medicine student, as its new president for the spring term.

SGU News spoke with Ms. Carillo, an aspiring pediatrician, to celebrate the start of her tenure and to learn more about the club’s mission and community outreach.

St. George’s University: Congratulations! What are you most excited about doing in your new role as president?

Ms. Carillo: Thank you! I am most excited about leading such a strong group of students from around the world. As president, I hope to create awareness of the environmental and social determinants that impact health and how we as a chapter can alleviate those barriers to good health. I am also looking forward to working alongside other SOM clubs as well as clubs within the Schools of Veterinary Medicine and the Arts and Sciences, particularly the SAS nursing program.

SGU: For those who are new to AMSA, what is the mission of the organization?

Ms. Carillo: The AMSA was founded in 1950 to promote active improvement in medical education and the enhancement of social, moral, and ethical obligations of the medical profession. AMSA’s vision is a world where healthcare is accessible, medicine is affordable, and systems support the diversity around us. Advocacy is central to AMSA.

SGU: How does AMSA serve others?

Ms. Carillo: The SGU chapter of AMSA holds and participates in a number of events like blood drives, health fairs, and COVID-19 vaccination drives that promote equitability in healthcare for the Grenadian communities.

SGU: What are some of the challenges you aim to address as part of your term?

Ms. Carillo: Since many of our students are online due to the pandemic, we are in the process of creating workshops and panels that will allow them to feel supported and encouraged to continue to work alongside AMSA virtually or on campus.

In addition, we are so grateful for the support from our faculty advisors, Dr. Karl Theodore and Dr. Chamarthy Subbarao, who are guiding us to incorporate these new programs that prepare students and aid them towards becoming inspiring physicians.

Follow AMSA

Instagram: @amsa.sgu

Facebook: @amsasgu

Twitter: @amsa_sgu

Email: amsa.sgu@gmail.com

SGU: What would you say to students to encourage them to join? 

Ms. Carillo: Joining AMSA is a wonderful opportunity to expand your skills as a medical student, enhance your network through residency panels, and develop a strong understanding of the current issues facing healthcare. Becoming a member allows students the opportunity to influence change through leading and advocating for continued improvement and advancement in healthcare for all.

SGU: Is AMSA open to all students?

Ms. Carillo: AMSA welcomes all School of Medicine students from Term 1-5 both online and in person. In addition, premedical students from the School of Arts and Sciences can also join our chapter.

SGU: How active is your group?

Ms. Carillo: We are quite active as each term is about four months. The executive board meets a few times a month, but members on the e-board are in communication daily/weekly to discuss upcoming events. Since most of the e-board is online, we stay in contact via WhatsApp, email, and Zoom. The general body meetings are held monthly, and we are currently planning our first meeting for early February.

SGU: What other projects is the chapter working on?

Ms. Carillo: Currently we are collaborating with other clubs on several events that include COVID-19 vaccination drives, a phlebotomy lab, an anatomy crossover lab, and a CDC lecture and discussion on One Health.

In addition, we are working on a fundraising event to support the Grenada Heart Foundation. We are also hoping to incorporate more events that enable students to develop stronger clinical skills.

SGU: How can students join?

Ms. Carillo: Go to mycampus.sgu.edu, select student resources, then select student organizations from the drop-down tab. Our sign-up link and additional information about AMSA will be found there! Also, at the beginning of each term, you can sign up and learn more about us at the Student Organizational Fair. blood drives, health fairs, and COVID-19 vaccination drives. Visit our website.

 

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Photos courtesy of SGU AMSA chapter.

 

— Paul Burch

 

 

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New DNA sequencing ability at WINDREF aids Grenada in identifying new COVID variants

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Drawing on the strong partnership between St. George’s University and the Government of Grenada throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, new DNA sequencing capabilities at the campus-based Windward Islands Research and Education Foundation (WINDREF) will help to identify new variants of the virus in Grenada—and be a resource for the country and other Caribbean nations to identify additional infectious disease variants.

“The potential public health impacts of having this research tool available to Grenada and potentially for the Caribbean region is significant,” said Dr. Calum Macpherson, director of WINDREF and dean of SGU’s School of Graduate Studies. “Being able to provide findings on the variants that are circulating in Grenada, as well as those that have circulated in the past and any new variants that arise, is critical information that can be referred to when creating policies and responses to the virus as a country and region.”

With funding from SGU, WINDREF acquired two DNA sequencing machines in early December to identify pathogen variants. The process, which entails testing infected individuals’ RNA samples for viral load, and then comparing the results to global databases, was used to confirm that the Omicron variant was detected in patients in Grenada as of the end of December.

The research team at WINDREF underwent an intense six-hour online training session in order to learn how to use the sequencer. The training was provided by Dr. Nikita Shadeo, Mr. Vernie Ramkisson, and Mr. Soren Nicholls from the PAHO-WHO Reference Sequencing Lab at the UWI St. Augustine Campus located in Trinidad, which is headed by Professor Christine Carrington.

 

“The potential public health impacts of having this research tool available to Grenada and potentially for the Caribbean region is significant.”

 

Among those who are now qualified to work on the sequencing data is Vanessa Matthew-Belmar, MSc ’16, who is going to use this technique to study the evolution of the variants found in Grenada over time as part of her research work towards her PhD. Ms. Matthew-Belmar is also a member of the COVID-19 testing team that assisted in the nation’s PCR testing program. In the early stages of the pandemic, the testing program was based on the SGU campus.

“I will use the potential of the sequencing equipment to investigate important epidemiological, viral, and public health issues raised by the circulating variants over time,” said Ms. Matthew-Belmar.

Other members of the sequencing team include: Dr. Trevor Noel, deputy director of WINDREF; Clarkson University MSc student, Nandy Noel, WINDREF lab technician, Elsa Chitan, an SGU MPH graduate, and Nikita Cudjoe, WINDREF’S COVID-19 testing team manager.

Going forward, Dr. Macpherson said that any patients admitted to the Grenada General Hospital or who pass away with a diagnosis of COVID-19 will have their samples sequenced to determine the variant.

The sequencing equipment is not only available to analyze the SARS-CoV-2 variants seen in Grenada since the start of the outbreak, but it also will provide a valuable resource for regional requests for disease sequencing to be conducted for other Caribbean countries, said Minister of Health, the Hon. Nickolas Steele.

“We are proud to be able to offer this service, which reflects the close partnership between the Ministry of Health, SGU, WINDREF, UWI, CARPHA, and PAHO-WHO,” said Minister Steele. “As one of only two labs in the English-speaking Caribbean region that can conduct sequencing, we are adding to the global body of knowledge, which is important for PAHO and WHO.”

Beyond COVID, the new equipment also provides “enormous potential” for understanding the further evolution of viral, bacterial, and other infectious diseases, such as dengue and the zoonotic potential of the canine hookworm species, Dr. Macpherson noted.

“Going forward, not only can we use this equipment to sequence any SARs-CoV-2, but we can also use it to sequence all other diseases,” he said. “It’s an incredibly powerful technique that can be an important diagnostic addition in Grenada’s toolbox as we continue to fight this pandemic.”

 

-Laurie Chartorynsky

 

 

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New SOM Assistant Dean for Multicultural Affairs Champions Equity and Inclusion Amongst Med School Community

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Home to students and faculty from 151 countries, St. George’s University is committed to developing initiatives and activities designed to nurture and celebrate the cultural differences of the SGU community. The recent appointment of Dr. Arlette Herry as the School of Medicine’s assistant dean for multicultural affairs, equity, and inclusion is another step in achieving that goal.

“We live and work in a global community and we see the impact of how connected our world is every day,” said Dr. Marios Loukas, dean of the School of Medicine. “It is therefore important to learn how to navigate that world. With Dr. Herry’s expertise and more than a decade-long commitment to SGU, we look forward to her guiding us to an even more equitable and inclusive environment within the School of Medicine.”

Dr. Herry has been with SGU for more than 15 years of her 20-year career as a psychologist. She also serves as SGU’s ombudsperson and as assistant professor of behavioral sciences in SOM’s Department of Physiology, Neuroscience, and Behavioral sciences.

 

“In this new role, my main goal is to provide avenues to embrace the diversity that is the foundation of our SGU community, from recruitment and retention, to curriculum, and faculty development.”

 

Her mission in her new position: to enrich the educational environment for SOM students and graduates who will embrace these values and draw on them when serving patients. More specifically, Dr. Herry is responsible for creating processes to enhance the school’s commitment to the belief that a culturally diverse faculty and student body is essential for successful teaching, learning, research, and service.

“This is an opportune time for multicultural affairs to be at the front and center of our everyday lives,” Dr. Herry said. “In this new role, my main goal is to provide avenues to embrace the diversity that is the foundation of our SGU community, from recruitment and retention, to curriculum, and faculty development.”

Some of Dr. Herry’s plans for SOM include: the creation and implementation of a School of Medicine Diversity Policy and an anti-discrimination policy—both of which can be found in the faculty and students’ handbooks. She also has several other initiatives in the works including implicit bias training as part of the basic sciences and clinical curricula, and for faculty and staff.

“My hope is that we become more open to new experiences,” shared Dr. Herry. “SGU’s diversity provides a valuable opportunity to share our culture, perspectives, and goals with each other, and feel safe and supported in doing so. I am very happy about the direction that the School of Medicine is taking to broaden its horizons in this area, and to educate and train culturally competent physicians. I am excited to see what the future will be at SGUSOM.”

— Ray-Donna Peters

 

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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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Animal-Human Connection at Heart of Caribbean Veterinary Medical Conference

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As the science of veterinary medicine evolves, the veterinary professional continues to play an integral role in the socio-economic development of the community. In collaboration with the Grenada Veterinary Medical Association (GVMA), St. George’s University welcomed more than 100 such professionals to the 32nd Biennial Caribbean Veterinary Medical Association (CbVMA) virtual conference earlier this month.

Under the theme, “The Veterinarian and the Community,” the two-day event brought together regional and international veterinarians and scientists from North America, the Caribbean, and the United Kingdom.

“The importance of hosting this conference at this time cannot be overemphasized,” said Dr. Eugene Rennie, president of the GVMA and newly elected vice president of the CbVMA. “As our region becomes more intricately woven into the global village, it was indeed a clarion call to bring together colleagues and professionals from the global community to discuss animal welfare and its impact on the human community.”

Amongst the 30 main presenters were 16 SGU faculty members, as well as 17 SVM alumni attendees. By partaking in the conference, participants were also eligible to receive 30 RACE credits.

“This conference presented an opportunity for continuing education that is reflected in being abreast with new scientific information as it relates to the profession, and to promote collegiality, which is one of the building blocks of intellectual strength,” added Dr. Rennie. “It was also an ideal platform for a ‘community of practice,’ which is an important alternative source that can be tapped into as participants to further enhance our knowledge.”

Topics covered at the conference included video and live presentations on:

  • One health one medicine
  • Small and large animal medicine
  • Exotics and marine animal medicine
  • Apiculture
  • Veterinary acupuncture
  • Poultry and swine medicine
  • Equine microchipping
  • Animal wellness and health
  • Using diagnostics to grow the veterinary clinic
  • Effects of the pandemic on the veterinary profession

 

“The veterinary profession is multifaceted and veterinarians play a crucial role in society,” stated Crissy-Ann Harrylal, DVM ’16, BSc ’12, instructor in the School of Veterinary Medicine’s Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology. “It is not a profession that only deals with animal care, but all species imaginable, including humans. Veterinarians are involved in public health/disease prevention, food security, zoonoses, environment, animal welfare, biosecurity, and research.”

With his election to the board of the CbVMA, Dr. Rennie intends to champion the revitalization and restructuring of the GVMA. Future plans for the organization include, creating a veterinary council; formulating an Animal Act, which would be critical legislation encompassing proper control of animal health, animal welfare, and veterinary public health policies; and fostering mechanisms for collaboration and cooperation between the veterinary services and the Government of Grenada.

 

– Ray-Donna Peters

 

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Reflecting on 2021: 5 stories that illuminated the School of Medicine community

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From students matching into highly competitive residency positions to alumni, students, staff, and faculty mobilizing to help Grenada combat the COVID-19 pandemic, the St. George’s University School of Medicine community made an enduring mark in 2021.

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

These and other stories defined the School of Medicine in 2021, underscoring the University’s aim to provide a rewarding education for students who aspire to become impactful health professionals around the world.

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

 

 

– Laurie Chartorynsky

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Outstanding Achievements Celebrated During SVM Awards Ceremony

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The School of Veterinary Medicine hosted its bi-annual SVM Awards Ceremony honoring students, faculty, and staff for their outstanding achievements during the fall term. Twenty-four different sets of awards were presented during the virtual event, to students who demonstrated exceptional academic achievement, professionalism, and work ethic as well as to faculty and staff who demonstrated remarkable service and commitment to veterinary education. 

“It’s such an important aspect of the School of Veterinary Medicine to honor the very special achievements of students, faculty, and staff,” said Dr. Neil Olson, dean of the SVM. “With all of the challenges presented while learning during the current global pandemic, what better way to lift the spirits than to acknowledge the efforts and sacrifices they’ve made to make this program and our students successful.” 

In addition to Dean Olson, Dr. Glen Jacobs, provost of SGU also addressed the online crowd. He shared his heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and expressed his hope to attend the next award ceremony in person. “This is our fourth virtual awards ceremony, but I cannot wait for it to be held face-to-face in Grenada and we can all celebrate together again.” 

The ceremony also recognized 24 new inductees into the Alpha Delta Chapter of the Phi Zeta Honor Society—11 from Term 5, 13 from Term 6, and three faculty members. Seven students were awarded Dean Olson’s Award for Academic Excellence, which is given to Term 3 students with the highest GPA (as of the end of Term 2) and who embody professionalism. 

“It’s such a joy and pleasure to bring everyone together to celebrate excellence amongst our faculty, staff, and students,” said Dr. Anne Marie Corrigan, associate dean of academics, during her closing remarks. “It truly shows the passion and love for what we do on a daily basis in veterinary medicine and that you’ve worked so hard to be successful.” 

SGU Island Veterinary Scholars Program (Boehringer Ingelheim)  

Allison Kearney, Adrian Jones 

Outstanding Colleague Awards 

Term 1: Miller Young 

Term 2: Giana Gigantino 

Term 3: Molly Ginn 

Term 4: Leandra Margolies 

Term 5: Sheriden Nicholes 

Term 6: Brittney Kilgore, Adriana Kalaska, Marc Bremmer 

Dean Olson’s Award for Academic Excellence 

Selina Nackley, Amanda Ernst, Natalie Hollo, Anca Gagliardo, Logan Bernstein, Adrian Jones, Maureen Kruhlak 

Adrienne Lotton Memorial Award 

Brian Greene 

Zoetis Awards

Zoetis Award for Research Excellence: Daniel Fitzpatrick    

Zoetis Revolution Awards of Excellence 

Small Animal Internal Medicine: Gemma Carter 

Small Animal Surgery: Adriana Kalaska 

Equine Medicine and Surgery: Ashley Law 

Food Animal Medicine and Surgery: Tiara Key 

Scholarship of Service Award: Yvonne White 

Student Research Award: Madison Kucinick 

SVM Alumni Scholarship award: Maggie Macpherson 

Giant Paws Giant Hearts Foundation “Hercules” Award  

Matthew Pickens 

PAWS Recognition for Term 6 Facilitators 

Maggie Macpherson, Erika Brewer, Gemma Carter, Marc Bremmer, Priyanka Mehta, Luca Mak, Thomas Conley, Corinne Ross, Jessie Whitfield, Louis Carusillo, Colleen Courtney, Vianca Hernandez 

Veterinary Public Health Committee 

One Health One Medicine Community Leader Award: Ashley Wyman 

Student Organization Awards

The Feral Cat Project  

Most Valuable Trapper: Elizabeth Peck 

Most Valuable Faculty/Staff: Imika Pascal 

SGUSVM Large Animal Society 

Most Valuable LAS Member Award: Bianca Mower 

 SVM Wellness Committee 

Wellness MVP Award: Dr. Adria Rodriguez 

AAARF: Angels in Armor Animal Rescue Fund 

Friends of AAARF Awards: Sarah Mikhail, Taryn Williamson  

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

Internal Medicine MVP Award: Bethany Sakowski 

SVECCS:  Student Chapter of the Emergency and Critical Care Society 

Outstanding Member Award: Sisina Macchiarelli 

Outstanding Clinician Award: Dr. Flavia Restitutti 

SNP: Spay Neuter Pothound  

Pothound Student Hero Award: Lauren Abrams 

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 

Most Valuable Primate Award: Brianna Jacobs 

VBMA: Veterinary Business Management Association 

Impact Award: Gemma Carter 

The Pinckney Parasitology Award 

Letty Bonilla 

DES Recognition Awards 

Brin Cerbone, Kisten Braccili, Cassandra Morales, Angelica Melara, Daniel Ingram, Courtney Kennedy 

Alpha Delta Chapter of the Society of Phi Zeta 

Fall 2021 Inductees 

Term 5 Inductees

Ireny Barsoum, Natasha Brown, Rachel Bryan, Karli Collins, Alex Chang, Karine Comeau, Kayla Duncan, Chloe Eaton, Priscilla Leinberger, Glenna Maur, Lauren Pierce 

 Term 6 Inductees

Sarah Beckner, Remington Campbell, Joelle Chami, Iesha Clouden, Thomas Cronly, Sara Hyman, Jennifer Klapko, Ashley Law, Danica McGuire, Erin Rickey, Alyssa Ungemach, Jessie Whitfield, Bahareh Ziai 

Phi Zeta Specialty Faculty Recognition for Their Work in Promoting Research and Scholarship  

Veterinary faculty: Dr. Stacey Byers, Dr. Satesh Bidaisee 

Honorary faculty: Ms. Elizabeth Peach 

SGU SVM Outstanding Staff Awards 

Technical staff: Keshia John  

Administrative staff: Cindy Edwards  

Hill’s Golden Apple Teaching Award 

Dr. Stacey Byers 

 

 

 

– Ray-Donna Peters 

 

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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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SAS grad becomes Grenada board’s first female CEO

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Leadership has always been a strength for St. George’s University graduate Afia Joseph, from her time as a Grenada Junior Achiever to her current role—chief executive officer of the Grenada Marketing & National Importing Board (MNIB).

As the organization’s first-ever woman CEO, Ms. Joseph, BSc ’08, MBA ’14, heads up the leading purchaser, retailer, and exporter of traditional and local agro-products on the island. She is responsible for the marketing and national export of agricultural produce, and management of the importation and supply of specified commodities to Grenada. She also plays a supporting role in the development and expansion of the country’s agricultural sector.

Nine months into her new role, Ms. Joseph opens up about what she hopes to accomplish at MNIB, the characteristics of a good leader, and offers advice to those seeking higher education.

St. George’s University: How does it feel to be the MNIB’s first-ever female CEO?

Afia Joseph: I feel very privileged to secure this role yet humbled by this responsibility. With great power comes great responsibility. I hope that my appointment sends a signal to the youth in Grenada to get involved in the development of our country. My appointment also confirms to women that there is a clear path to their goals once there is determination and commitment.

 

“My role has the ability to influence change and improve the agriculture sector. My aim is to facilitate further development of the agro-processing industry in Grenada and play a key role in the expansion of national exports, which will benefit many Grenadians. “

 

SGU: What excites you most about your new job? 

AJ: My role has the ability to influence change and improve the agriculture sector. My aim is to facilitate further development of the agro-processing industry in Grenada and play a key role in the expansion of national exports, which will benefit many Grenadians.

SGU: What makes you a good leader?

AJ: My capacity to manage challenging and otherwise difficult environments with a sense of calm resolve while producing results. Also, critical for leadership is the ability to manage ego, maintain humility, see the value in others, and understand that in order to lead others one must first learn to lead oneself.

SGU: How well do you feel that SGU prepared you for the next step in your journey?

AJ: I felt thoroughly prepared by SGU to enter the workforce—equipped with the soft skills, confidence, tenacity, and emotional intelligence necessary to succeed. The business management program promoted success through teamwork, which is critical to becoming a leader worth following.

Overall, my experience at SGU has had a profoundly positive impact on my career development. Along with the experience attained, both my Master of Business Administration and Bachelor of Arts in accounting have positioned me for many opportunities and will continue to do so. The principles and knowledge I acquired have supported all my leadership roles and allowed me to excel.

SGU: Was a career in business something you always wanted to pursue?

AJ: Fortunately, I did not choose my field; my field chose me. I was nurtured and nudged into the direction where I can truly give of myself by making a meaningful contribution to the world through my work.

SGU: What advice would you give someone on a similar journey?

AJ: For anyone contemplating whether it is the right time to pursue higher education, I would say that it’s better to be prepared for an opportunity and not have one than to have an opportunity and not be prepared. It is with this in mind that I continue to grow and learn while expecting greater things for myself and others.

 

– Ray-Donna Peters

SAS grad on data analysis: “Nothing brings me more joy”

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Data, data analysis, reporting—they all came natural to Donella Telesford, BSc ’09, whether it was during computer courses, mathematics, or any class that required critical thinking and analytical skills.

Looking back on her academic career now, as St. George’s University’s associate director of University Surveys and Qualtrics brand administrator, Ms. Telesford realizes she was on a quick path to serving as a leader in survey research at her alma mater. She has been a crucial asset to University operations, including as SGU navigated the COVID-19 pandemic over the past two years.

“Nothing brings me more joy than being able to utilize my skills, expertise, and knowledge of Qualtrics to demonstrate the capabilities of the software,” Ms. Telesford said. “I enjoy creating complex surveys and systems that can help other users manage and streamline their tasks.”

 

“Nothing brings me more joy than being able to utilize my skills, expertise, and knowledge of Qualtrics to demonstrate the capabilities of the software. I enjoy creating complex surveys and systems that can help other users manage and streamline their tasks.”

 

In her current role, Ms. Telesford leads the monitoring and approval of various surveys to ensure that all policies are adhered to. In addition, she is responsible for the design, administration, analysis, and reporting of SGU Student Satisfaction Surveys, which are sent to more than 5,000 students across all four schools each term. While helping to achieve institutional goals, Ms. Telesford works closely with the deans, faculty, and administrators to create these surveys, provide general support to over 500 Qualtrics users, and work on special projects for the provost’s office.

As a first-generation college graduate, Ms. Telesford got her entry into the workforce at SGU, where she held her first job as a registration assistant in the Office of Enrollment Planning, now Office of the University Registrar. After completing SGU’s internship program at GRENLEC, Grenada’s sole electricity company, she jumped at the chance to join SGU full time in the housing department as a data entry specialist, sparking her interest in her future field. She later transitioned to the position of SAS Peer Learning Group coordinator followed by an appointment as coordinator of the Student Support and Administrative Office within the Department of Educational Services.

“My experience at SGU as a student and now an employee has been amazing,” shared Ms. Telesford. “During my time as a student, I met friends who have motivated me, mentors who have guided me, and professors who have taught me a great deal. SGU has also been instrumental in my career development, providing numerous professional development sessions, as well as access to high-quality resources free of cost to its employees. These sessions have had a great impact on me professionally, academically, and personally. I feel extremely prepared for the next challenge and advancement opportunity.”

This next challenge came during the current COVID-19 pandemic when Ms. Telesford was appointed as the SGU Contact Tracing Team Lead. As part of several task forces formed to assist SGU students in Grenada and abroad, she designed, distributed, and reported on several surveys that captured pertinent information needed for decision-making by the University’s leadership. Additionally, to assist in her new role, Ms. Telesford completed the Johns Hopkins COVID-19 Contact Tracing course that not only provided her with the knowledge to be effective in her role but also helped her host training sessions and create resources for new team members.

“In this role, I managed a team of eight people who conducted contact tracing, wellness checks, scheduled testing, and arranged medical clearances through the Ministry of Health for more than 700 contacts and cases. Working closely with stakeholders, I also created the SGU COVID-19 Case and Contact Tracing Protocols. Although this is a challenging role, it has provided me with the opportunity to serve SGU and give back to the Grenada community, while assisting the MOH with reducing the spread of COVID-19 in Grenada.”

Currently, Ms. Telesford has completed seven Qualtrics certification courses assessing her ability to understand Qualtrics XM principles, confidently execute on research projects, and report insights using the Qualtrics platform. In the upcoming months, she will be preparing to take the Qualtrics Level 1 certification exam, which will be the first step towards validating her expertise as a certified Qualtrics XM professional.

“All of my past experiences at SGU have prepared me for the work that I do today,” stated Ms. Telesford. “Transferring the many skills and knowledge I’ve acquired throughout the years has allowed me to gather valuable feedback and identify areas of concern, so that I can better serve students by providing the academic and non-academic support needed to improve student success. My SGU experience has also enabled me to view collaboration as a learning experience that fosters an open, connected, and engaged work environment.”

 

— Ray-Donna Peters