SGU Alumni Physicians & Friends Help 1,200+ Grenadian Patients in 2024

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SGU PHuN opthalmology clinic, Oct. 2024, Dr. Douglas Lavenburg, Dr. Mary Ratchford

Hundreds of Grenadian patients received critical healthcare treatment in 2024 thanks to the volunteerism of St. George’s University alumni physicians and friends.

Hundreds of Grenadian patients received critical healthcare treatment in 2024 thanks to the volunteerism of St. George’s University alumni physicians and friends.

More than 15 visiting physicians—including ophthalmologists, cardiologists, neurologists, endocrinologists, radiologists, orthopedic surgeons, and vascular surgeons—volunteered their time and expertise through the SGU Physician Humanitarian Network (SGU PHuN) with some even making multiple trips this year. They offered critical treatment and services to the people of Grenada. Their patients are unable to receive certain specialized medical care due to a lack of access to specialists and/or the funds to attain these required surgeries.

SGU PHuN continued to make a significant impact on Grenada and its communities in 2024. In total:

  • 1,282 patients were seen and/or treated;
  • 240 procedures (surgical and outpatient) were performed;
  • over $230,000 (USD) worth of supplies and equipment was donated; and
  • 7 CME talks conducted; these were attended both in person and virtually by local physicians and other healthcare providers.

Launched in 2008, the program is a joint initiative between SGU’s Office of Institutional Advancement, the Office of Alumni Affairs, and the Office of the Provost that facilitates visits of alumni physicians and other volunteer physicians to Grenada. These medical missions provide much-needed care to the people of Grenada and are in close coordination with the Grenada General Hospital and Grenada’s Ministry of Health.

“SGU-PHuN captures the spirit of the SGU community and its graduates in a very direct way,” according to Brendon LaGrenade, EdD, vice provost for Institutional Advancement and director of Alumni Affairs. “Our physician alumni continue to return to the island to deliver a vast array of voluntary specialty medical care. The value in these programs is not measured in the millions of dollars in donations and services delivered but more so in the lives of the individuals positively impacted.”

Cataract surgery was a top priority for the SGU PHuN this year.

“Due to the pandemic, a lack of specialist equipment and personnel, and high cost, there is a long waiting list for cataract surgery. For this reason, the SGU PHuN set a lofty goal of completing 100 cataract procedures for 2024,” Dr. LaGrenade said. “We are proud to say that we achieved 106 cataract surgeries through the generosity of physicians who traveled here to help the people of Grenada.”

Former SGU-student and New Jersey-based ophthalmologist Dr. Bernard Spier kicked off the cataract mission in February, performing 38 surgeries. In October, a collaborative ophthalmology mission spearheaded by Dr. Mary Ratchford with Vision Health International, performed 68 surgeries.

According to Dr. Spier, he chose to donate his time and skills to the Grenadian people because it is “a basic act of human kindness.”

“I have a special place in my heart for Grenada because that’s where I got my start in medicine,” said Dr. Spier. “Grenada gave me an opportunity to become a doctor. If I hadn’t gone to Grenada, I would’ve done something else [besides medicine].”

Dr. Throl Mason, Dr. Bernard Spier, TracyAnn Frederick, Dr. Brendon La Grenade, Dr. Zachary Mendelson (Left to right)

(Left to right) Dr. Throl Mason, Dr. Bernard Spier, TracyAnn Frederick, Dr. Brendon La Grenade, and Dr. Zachary Mendelson during an ophthalmology clinic in March 2024.

Other ophthalmologists who also donated their services this year included:

  • Roger Turbin (oculoplastic/neuro-ophthalmologist)
  • Fred Lambrou (retina and diabetic eye program)
  • Michael Gray (pediatric ophthalmologist)
Ms. TracyAnn Frederick, Ms. Payge Lipscomb, Dr. Michael Gray, Ms. Leigh Taylor Langdon (Left to right)

Visiting physicians—including ophthalmologists, cardiologists, neurologists, endocrinologists, radiologists, orthopedic surgeons, and vascular surgeons—volunteered their time through SGU PHuN.

SGU-PHuN also had visits from the following physician specialists in 2024:

Cardiology

  • Anthony Tramontano, MD ’99
  • Amita Dharawat, MD ’06
  • Vineet Dua, MD ’96
  • Tara Jarreau, MD ’06
  • Pravin Patil, MD ’04
  • Jason Finkelstein, MD ’99 (interventional cardiologist)

Neurology

  • Richard Mikilitus, MD ’90

Endocrinology

  • Dwight Matthias, MD ’92

Radiology

  • Randy Becker, MD ’00

Orthopedic Surgery

  • Dr. Karl Blum, former SGU student

Vascular Access

  • Dr. Christian Rodriguez

“Thank you to all who contributed to this very important mission,” Dr. La Grenade said. “We look forward to making an even bigger impact in 2025.”

SGU alumni who are interested in returning to Grenada to participate in the SGU PHuN program should contact aa-som@sgu.edu.

 

— Laurie Chartorynsky

 

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SGU Holds First-Ever Tech Expo

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From displaying the latest advancements in virtual reality to exploring the benefits of high-tech simulation labs used for educational purposes, St. George’s University recently held its first-ever Technology Exposition Week on campus.

More than 250 members of the SGU community attended the week-long event, which took place from October 28 to November 2, in which participants were able to engage in interactive sessions presented by a variety of SGU departments to highlight the University’s technology offerings.

“Technology has been modifying and redefining the face of education for years now and our goal is to provide our students with the knowledge and skills to navigate these new learning environments,” said Dr. David Twum-Barimah, chair of the Committee for Technology-Based Teaching and Learning (CTTL) and director of Student Campus Facilities. “The purpose of the SGU Tech Expo was to focus on technology and innovation applications at the University and to share, learn, and transfer those tools among the community.”

Highlights from the Tech Expo included:

  • A presentation by SGU’s medical illustrators, which create visual images that help explain complex medical information;
  • An interactive display of the latest tech used in virtual reality and 3D printing applications within medical education;
  • Tours of the School of Medicine and School of Veterinary Medicine simulation labs;
  • A presentation by SGU’s Department of Educational Services on technology in education;
  • The School of Arts and Sciences IT presentation and display; and
  • A tour of the SGU Command Center.

 

“Through the introduction of the SGU Tech Expo Week, the campus community was able to physically connect with a variety of different technologies on display before them,” added Dr. Twum-Barimah. “By participating in a series of engaging events, attendees were able to explore how technology is influencing and transforming their fields of interest and how it can be applied in order to drive innovation forward in a rapidly evolving world.”

The Tech Expo was hosted by SGU’s Committee for Technology-Based Teaching and Learning (CTTL). The committee, which consists of faculty and students from each school as well as members of staff, administration, and the Office of Information Technology, aims to explore technology-based solutions for teaching and learning experiences to further enhance the academic technology used by the SGU community.

Didn’t attend? Check out our top photos from the SGU Tech Expo 2024. 

 

  • Participant using virtual reality device.

  • Close up of virtual reality device.

  • Virtual reality device user.

  • SAS IT students display autonomous mobile robots.

  • SAS IT student showcases computer components.

  • 3D printing machine.

  • Close up of 3D printer.

  • SAS IT students display 3D renders using blender application.

  • SAS IT student highlights another 3D render using blender software.

  • Participant utilizing high fidelity simulation mannequin in the SOM sim lab.

  • Phlebotomy demonstration in the SOM simulation lab.

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– Ray-Donna Peters

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SVM Rewards Excellence at Term Awards Celebration, Phi Zeta Induction

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SVM fall 2024 awards ceremony group photo

SVM students, staff, and faculty celebrate their achievements at the SVM Fall 2024 Term Awards

In November, the St. George’s University (SGU) School of Veterinary Medicine recognized the outstanding accomplishments of its students, staff, and faculty during two notable events: the Fall 2024 SVM Awards Ceremony and the Phi Zeta induction ceremony.

“To our incredible students, faculty, and staff, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the winners recognized at the Fall Term Awards ceremony and to the newly inducted members of Phi Zeta,” said Dr. Neil Olson, dean of the SVM. “Your dedication, innovation, and unwavering pursuit of excellence reflect the very best of our School of Veterinary Medicine.”

Forty-nine fifth and sixth term SVM students and four faculty members were recognized as inductees into the Alpha Delta Chapter of the Society of Phi Zeta on November 1.

 

Fall Phi Zeta induction ceremony photo album

 

As the honor society for veterinary medicine, the Society seeks to recognize and promote scholarship and research in matters pertaining to the welfare and diseases of animals, according to Phi Zeta. The SGU chapter is headed by SVM faculty, Dr. Kerri Nigito as president, Dr. Sophia Moittié as vice president, and Dr. Sonia Cheetham-Brow as secretary and treasurer.

At the School of Veterinary Medicine Fall Awards Ceremony, held on November 15, the SVM community celebrated the achievements of students and faculty as 33 sets of awards were presented to recipients.

 

Fall SVM Awards Ceremony photo album

 

“Congratulations to our outstanding students, dedicated faculty, and exceptional staff for their remarkable accomplishments,” said Dr. Tara Paterson, associate dean of Year Four Clinical Training at SGU and chair of the SVM Awards Committee.

She went on to share that the drive to succeed should not stem from material things, such as awards, but rather fueled by an inner desire to work hard and be the best “you” that you can be.

This semester’s awards are as follows:

Outstanding Colleague Awards

Term 1: Paxton Horvath

Term 2: Yvelisse Welden and Amante Mozaffarian

Term 3: Taylor Edwinson

Term 4: Jaelyn Ingram

Term 5: Jason Gutmann

Term 6: Caroline Vangi and Brittany Watson

Adrienne Lotton Memorial Award

Asiamay Diaz

Dean Neil C. Olson Award for Academic Excellence & Professionalism

Michael Starrett

Zoetis Revolution Awards of Excellence

Small Animal Internal Medicine: Shana Hodosh

Small Animal Surgery: Michael Starrett

Equine Medicine & Surgery: Alyssa Willibey

Food Animal Medicine & Surgery: Christian Cavazos

Scholarship of Service: Samantha Palmer

Surgery Team award: Benjamin Liu, Isabelle Mays, Mikka Muramatsu, and Jamie Park

Dr. Jim Nave Award for Excellence in Clinical Practice

Michael Starrett

Giant Paws Giant Hearts Foundation “Hercules” Award

Brittany Watson

The Veterinary Professionalism Award

Caroline Vangi and Dylan Glasser

Dr. Ravindra Nath Sharma Pathology Excellence Award

Leslie Escobar

DES Recognition Awards

Andrea Anguisaca, Jennifer Burke, Faith Van Rengen, Esmeralda Sifuentes, and Penny Wang

PAWS Recognition of 6th Term Facilitators

Diamond Blanks, Dylan Glasser, Lindsey Honnert, Dariann Ludwig, Jessica Martin, Cassandra Mayberry, Emily Meade, Sharon Paredes, Ally Prince, and Nahir Roman-Rodriguez

SAVMA: Student American Veterinary Medical Association

SAVMA Executive Board Extraordinary Service Award: Julia Vaccaro

Feral Cat Project

Cat-tastic Member Award: Rebekah Wilson

Ameowzing Faculty Award: Dr. Elizaveta Vasechkina

Veterinary Public Health Committee

One Health One Medicine Community Leader Award: Kyra Boss

One Health One Medicine Faculty Excellence Award: Dr. Lucian Thomas

LAS: Large Animal Society

Ace of Initiative Award: Morgan Forney

Watchful Sheperd Award: Mr. Irfan Ahman Khan

AAARF: Angels in Armor Animal Rescue Fund

AAARF Angel Award: Kaylee Schultz

AAARF Armor Award: Dr. Wayne Sylvester

P&E: Pride and Equality

Excellence in DEI Awards: Naomi Crowell and Dr. India Paharsingh

RDIC: Radiology and Diagnostic Imaging Club

RDIC’s Raddest Vet Award: Ryan Phoenix

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

Most Dedicated Member Award: Katherine Dunn

SVECCS: Student Chapter of the Veterinary Emergency & Critical Care Society

Most Outstanding 6th Termer Award: Courtney Conway

Outstanding Clinician Award: Elizaveta Vasechkina

SCASV: Student Chapter of the Association of Shelter Veterinarians

Shelter Scholar Award: Sidney Hajdik

SNP: Spay Neuter Pothound

Pothound Hero Award: Jacqueline Paradine

SCVMA: Students of the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association

Superstar Canadian Award: Victoria Miller

Outstanding Advocate Award: Dr. Inga Karasek

SCACVP: Student Chapter of the American College of Veterinary Pathologists

MVP Award (Most Valuable Pathologist): Hayley Wuestenberg

EWS: Exotics & Wildlife Society

Excelling Elephant Award: Abigail Dobbs

WAG: Wellness Aide Guidance

The Praiseworthy Pothound Award: Brooke Bridges

VAC: Veterinary Anesthesia Club

Anesthesia Excellency Award: Elim Yee

Distinguished Veterinary Anesthesia Educator Award: Dr. Mercedes Miccio

WAVMA: World Aquatic Veterinary Medicine Association

MVP: Most Valuable Porpoise Award: Elizabeth Williams

Green Consortium

Ex “Seed” the Expectation Award: Ashley Pino

SCAAVP: Student Chapter of the American Association of Veterinary Parasitologists

Worm of Wisdom Award: Linh Le

SGA: Student Government Association

Outstanding Faculty Term 1—3 Award: Dr. Diana Stone

Outstanding Faculty Term 4—6 Award: Dr. Talia Guttin

SGU SGA Award of Excellence Term 1—3: Dr. Hector Zerpa

SGU SGA Award of Excellence Term 4—6: Dr. Mercedes Velaquez de Zerpa

George B. Daniel Award: Ally Prince

SGU SVM Technical Staff Award

Lucinda Ogilvie

Zoetis Award for Veterinary Research Excellence

Dr. Sophie Moittié

Hill’s Golden Apple Teaching Award

Dr. Firdous Khan

Alpha Delta Chapter of the Society of Phi Zeta

Fall 2024 Inductees

Term 5: Elise Brehm, Caitlyn Collazo, Erin Connolly, Hannah Coplin, Rocio De Anda, Teagan Gartley, Elise Grandy, Daphne Harris, Sarah Hattis, Yue He, Sarah Kovacs, Ryan McGauley, Shelby Pardoe, Elana Raaphorst, Alejandra Pardo Ribero, Nicole Sadlier, Jessica Vitale, and Dana Wiens

Term 6: Allie Abell, Erika Billman, Ashton Corcoran, Hayley Ferranti, Dylan Glasser, Lindsey Honnert, Laura Jankowski, Grace Johnson, Dariann Ludwig, Emily Meade, Victoria Muttin, Jacqueline Paradine, Claire Woronick, and Haley Wozniak

Term 6 students inducted last term: Jayme Clarke, Courtney Conway, Germaine Germundson, Elizabeth Fournier, Haley Harraka, Shana Hodosh, Jessica Martin, Julia Moretz, Alexandra Morris, Nicole O’Connor, Samantha Palmer, Brie Pavol, Bianca Perez, Wesleigh Porter, Michael Starrett, Elena Wafford, and Rebekah Wilson

Faculty inductees: Ms. Naudia Dundas, Mrs. Camille Coomansingh-Springer, Dr. Adria Rodriguez, and Dr. Nyoni Winchester

— Juliette Kimmins

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

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photo of SGU campus

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

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

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

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

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

SGU School of Medicine works with a network of more than 75 hospitals and health systems in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, offering clinical and ambulatory training. The School of Veterinary Medicine offers clinical training at over 30 affiliated institutions in six countries.

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

 

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SGU Vet Students Explore Job Opportunities at Inaugural SVM Career Fair

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The School of Veterinary Medicine recently welcomed more than 130 attendees, including students, veterinary professionals, sponsors, and business leaders, to its first ever SVM Career Fair.

The event, which took place on October 26 on St. George’s University’s campus, allowed students to learn more about the various career paths they can choose after graduation as well as potential internship and mentorship opportunities. Students were also able to connect with practicing veterinarians and leaders in the field of veterinary medicine, as they solidify their career plans.

“The chance to network with industry professionals and learn about internship options were the most valuable aspects of the career fair for me,” said Zobia Shaikh, a Term 1 SVM student. “Being able to directly engage with representatives and hear about the range of opportunities tailored for veterinary medical students provided insights that I couldn’t have found elsewhere.”

Zobia Shaikh, Term 1 SVM Student (center)

Zobia and her fellow SVM students took full advantage of the occasion to interact and network with veterinary employers, to gain insights into industry trends, and to explore potential job and externship opportunities.

“The career fair was very well-organized, making it easy to navigate,” shared Zobia. “I left with bags filled with brochures and company merchandise. Once back in my room, I immediately went through the materials and started researching each company’s website. After learning even more about their programs, I am now eager to apply for internships for either the winter or summer break.”

 

“This collaboration was created to also provide mentorship and guidance from industry personnel to our talented pool of SVM students.”

 

Career development is a pivotal area within the SVM Veterinary Professionalism curriculum. The SVM Career Development team designed the event to open doors, foster connections, and propel SVM students toward promising professional pathways.

“Career fairs are notably scheduled for recruitment,” stated Dr. Neil Olson, dean of the SVM. “However, this collaboration was created to also provide mentorship and guidance from industry personnel to our talented pool of SVM students. We are grateful to the exhibitors who came out and promoted their brands, shared their various roles, and encouraged our students to choose the field that best suits their individual interests and passions.”

Recap: Check out photos from the 2024 SVM Career Fair

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– Ray-Donna Peters

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SGU Grad Thrives as Grenada’s High Commissioner to UK

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

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

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

 

Before a career in diplomacy

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

A newfound passion for diplomacy

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

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

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

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

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

She looks back on her time at SGU with fondness.

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

– Ray-Donna Peters

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St. George’s University Announces New Admissions Partnership with Brooklyn College

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SGU Campus

St. George’s University announces a new admissions partnership with CUNY-Brooklyn College that grants qualified Brooklyn College students fast-track status and expedited entry into the St. George’s University School of Medicine.

“St. George’s University is delighted to offer this new opportunity for aspiring doctors from Brooklyn College to pursue degrees in medicine with us,” said Dr. Marios Loukas, Dean of St. George’s University School of Medicine. “SGU has a long-standing relationship with New York City, home to many of our students and alumni, and we are pleased to create an additional pathway for New York students to enter the medical profession.”

The partnership creates a “4+4” admissions pathway that provides students who have successfully completed Brooklyn College’s premedical program with admission to the four-year programs at SGU. Brooklyn College students interested in pursuing the pathway must maintain a strong overall GPA of 3.4 or higher, and score competitively on the MCAT medical school entrance examination. The program is open to students when they apply to Brooklyn College or during their first two years of study.

The pathway includes the option to complete both years of the basic sciences component at SGU’s campus in Grenada, or to complete one year at Northumbria University in the United Kingdom, with clinical rotations in the third and fourth years at various SGU affiliates, including those in the United States. SGU School of Medicine works with a network of more than 75 hospitals and health systems in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, offering clinical and ambulatory training.

“We are excited to expand our offerings to students interested in studying medicine to the St. George’s University School of Medicine,” said April Bedford, Brooklyn College’s provost and senior vice president for academic affairs. “The strong foundation students receive in our premedical program will prepare them well for the next step in their educational journey and careers in healthcare.”

Accepted participants may be eligible to be considered for all of SGU’s School of Medicine and scholarships and grants, including SGU’s CityDoctors scholarships for graduates of New York City high schools who wish to return to New York to practice medicine after completing their MD. SGU granted more than $71 million in scholarships in the 2023-2024 academic year.

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

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Carriacou Animal Hospital dog

Luna, a nine-month-old dog that was injured after the hurricane in a traffic accident. She has since made a full recovery thanks to the team at CAH. (Photo via: Carriacou Animal Hospital)

St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine students, faculty, staff, and alumni aided Grenada’s animals and livestock in the wake of Hurricane Beryl in an uplifting display of community and collaboration.

Hurricane Beryl, a Category 5 storm, barreled through the Caribbean in early July causing extensive destruction to homes and other structures in northern Grenada and Grenada’s sister islands, Petite Martinique and Carriacou.

Assessing the damage

Once the storm clouds cleared, it was clear that the islands were in need of help, and the SGU community jumped into action. Throughout Grenada, SGU students helped rebuild structures, distribute necessities, organize donations, and clean up beaches and other public areas. The School of Medicine Alumni Association (SOMAA) led a charity drive to help with relief efforts. With help from School of Veterinary Medicine alumni and other friends, they collected more than $77,000 USD to donate to help those in need.

Further, the Grenada Ministry of Agriculture and Lands requested assistance from SGU. Carriacou needed help assessing the health of the island’s livestock and tending to the management of the stray animal population, according to Dr. Satesh Bidaisee, interim chair for SVM’s Large Animal Medicine and Surgery Department.

“With adverse weather events such as hurricanes, planning for before, during, and after the event must also include the animal populations that are around us,” said Dr. Bidaisee. “A one-health focus for tending to people, animals, and the environment is critical for ensuring the best possible outcome during and after the adverse events.”

Immediately, a veterinary team led by Dr. Wayne Sylvester, medical director of the Small Animal Clinic, sprang into action, traveling to Carriacou to begin administering veterinary care and coordinating relief. The team tended to injuries of the livestock, worked to secure a food supply for the animals, and helped get the stray animal population under control through spay and neuter procedures.

“After the initial assessment, we came up with a list of priorities. That included getting food to the dogs and cats, getting food to the livestock, and getting building materials to the farmers. We wanted to help get the farmers back into farming, back into preserving their livelihoods,” Dr. Sylvester said.

Poultry farms were hit particularly hard as chickens were susceptible to rising water levels and inadequate shelters. Dr. Sylvester said that he and his team estimated thousands of casualties to poultry, sheep, goats, pigs, cattle, and other livestock.

Additionally, the Hill’s Pet Nutrition donated about 1,500 pounds of dog and cat food to distribute in Carriacou, shared Tara Paterson, DVM ’03, associate professor in the Small Animal Medicine and Surgery Department and president of School of Veterinary Medicine Alumni Association.

“It’s always amazing how events like this really help humanity come together,” said Dr. Paterson. “The outpouring of support is heartwarming.”

Carriacou Animal Hospital donations of pet food

Pet food donated from the GSPCA and SGU via Hill’s Pet Nutrition. (Photo via: Carriacou Animal Hospital)

Instilling hope

The veterinary team said that initially, a few farmers felt that they had lost too much to return to their profession and could not focus on their work as they once did. But that the majority of farmers in Carriacou have committed to continuing to farm thanks to the outpouring of help.

“We spent a couple of days on the ground just discussing with farmers, teaching them, advising them, and in some situations giving them hope. We provided more than veterinary care. Veterinary care was primary, but we also had to keep those animals alive, keep them productive, because of the risk of the agricultural industry being destroyed,” said Dexton St. Bernard, DVM ’21, MSC ’23, an instructor of parasitology at SGU and part of Dr. Sylvester’s veterinary team.

Originally from Grenada, he is also a member of the SGU outreach committee for technical support for the farming community and collaborates with the Grenada Ministry of Agriculture in providing veterinary support from time to time.

Dr. St. Bernard shared a poignant story of his experience aiding an elderly poultry farmer who is also one of the main suppliers of eggs on the island. His pens were blown away by the wind in the storm. Most of the birds survived, however, they were also starving from lack of food. Limited physically in what the farmer could do, the team was able to assist him. They brought him food, gave him advice, and spent some time with him.

“You saw on his face how appreciative he was. I felt so gratified. This is why we did this,” said Dr. St. Bernard. “I hope that all these efforts will inspire someone who is at a crossroads about becoming a veterinarian.”

He described this interaction as a hallmark moment giving Dr. St. Bernard motivation to continue volunteering and helping. Dr. St. Bernard believed that he and the team helped farmers like that farmer continue to stay in business and stay committed their craft.

“I am so happy to be a part of SGU, and I’m proud to be a Grenadian,” he said. “We didn’t only save animals. We saved livelihoods.”

 

“We didn’t only save animals. We saved livelihoods.”

 

A display of community

Carriacou Animal Hospital donations distribution

Photo via: Carriacou Animal Hospital

Dr. Sylvester thanks the quick response from various agencies and organizations that helped to coordinate relief to the island’s animal population, including the central government of Grenada, the Ministry of Agriculture, officials at the Ministry of Carriacou and Petite Martinique Affairs, the Caribbean Agriculture Network Disaster Reduction and Management (CANDO), the Grenada Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GSPCA), and the Carriacou Veterinary Hospital (CAH).

Katherine Nowell, managing director of CAH, shared that her team were able to transition to a mobile clinic after the animal hospital was severely damaged in the storm. CAH continues to treat more than 40 animals a week, handle emergencies, and perform multiple spay and neuter procedures at no charge to locals.

“We’re honored to have the support of SGU School of Veterinary Medicine following the devastation caused by Hurricane Beryl,” said Ms. Nowell.

Dr. Sylvester also took special care to express gratitude to Kimond Cummings, DVM ’17, Grenada’s chief veterinary officer and Dr. Kenrith Carter at Dr. Carter Vet.

He thanked the faculty, staff, and students of SGU and SGU leadership including: Dr. Glen Jacobs, provost of SGU; Dr. Neil Olson, dean of SVM; and Dr. Paterson.

Dr. Paterson made a special note to thank SVM alumni for helping after Beryl.

“Thank you to our veterinary alumni who also responded to this urgent need for assistance,” she said. “Your generosity has been noticed, and we gracefully appreciate your donations to this cause.”

 

 

— Juliette Kimmins

 

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SOM Faculty Feature: Dr. Ewarld Marshall, Chair of the Department of Pathology

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Dr. Ewarld Marshall

Dr. Ewarld Marshall wears many hats in the St. George’s University School of Medicine. But one of the positions he takes most seriously is that of role model to his students as they pursue their passion to earn an MD.

Dr. Marshall serves as the chair of the Department of Pathology, director of the diagnostic lab, and was recently made associate director of University Health Services. He began his tenure at SGU in 2006 as a clinical instructor, working his way up to lecturer, then associate professor, and now department chair. In that time, he also earned master’s degrees in anatomical science and in medical education.

Dr. Marshall, originally from Grenada, began his career in banking before transitioning to medicine. He trained in Havana, Cuba to become a family practitioner and completed his post-graduate studies in emergency and resuscitation medicine. During his time in Cuba, he also became fluent in Spanish, a skill he still utilizes regularly.

SGU News sat down with Dr. Marshall to learn more about him and his approach to teaching at SGU.

SGU: What are you most proud of in your career?

Dr. Marshall: As a practicing physician, I can touch many lives by seeing patients, but I think I make a bigger impact when I teach medical students. I take that seriously because it’s a representation of you as an educator, the pearls of wisdom that you pass on to your students, and how you portray that professionalism to them. That’s one of the things that I can say I am proudest about my career, and I’m thankful for that opportunity.

SGU: What do you love most about teaching, and what are the key takeaways you want your students to learn?

Dr. Marshall: It’s really a joy to see when those light bulbs go off when student make the connections when learning. That’s what I would like my students to do. I want my students to be able to reason, to be able to think, and to become problem solvers.
I want them to be comprehensive, empathetic physicians, so I try to give students behavior to emulate. I also want them to recognize that medicine is a privilege that someone is given to serve humanity. It’s about more about service than about oneself.

SGU: What fascinates you about pathology?

Dr. Marshall: It’s a beautiful specialty because it actually helps you to become a better clinician. It’s very broad, and we call it the “mother of internal medicine.” It’s a very foundational science that is necessary to become a good physician. Diagnosis, treatment, patient care—they go hand in hand.
Pathology, as a field, is very scientifically based. You must use a lot of intuition because you are examining body tissues, blood, and in the case of forensic pathology, evidence left by the living on the dead. You are consistently integrating medical knowledge and science.

SGU: What advice do you have for medical students just starting at SGU?

Dr. Marshall: Medicine is a journey and not a destination. It’s about persistence, it’s about passion, and it’s about perseverance. You must always remember why you wanted to become a physician.

As you go through medical school, you will encounter many people, people who you might think are smarter or more successful than you. Being better than them should not be your goal. You should learn to be the best physician that you can be, and that should be your personal goal. You got into medicine to improve the quality of life for humanity.

SGU: Why should prospective medical students consider SGU?

Dr. Marshall: SGU has one of the most diverse populations of students. I think a student who attends SGU gets a lesson in global diversity in that you meet and interact with so many different cultures. You learn so many nuances that it broadens your horizons in terms of how you are going to approach your patients.
Prospective medical students should also consider SGU’s curriculum. Our curriculum is designed in such a way that it accommodates many learning types.

SGU: Being on campus, where is your favorite place to eat?

Dr. Marshall: I’m going to be a bit biased but the Cuban Corner. My favorite thing to eat is a Cuban staple, which is black beans, rice, and pork steak. The food reminds me of my journey and is a bit nostalgic. It reminds me of where I was, where I am now, and how far I’ve come.

 

 

— Juliette Kimmins

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SGU Welcomes Aspiring Physicians and Veterinarians at Fall 2024 White Coat Ceremonies in Grenada

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St. George’s University’s newest classes of medical and veterinary medical students recently gathered on SGU’s True Blue campus in Grenada to mark the start of their professional journeys.

With their friends and families cheering them on, future physicians and veterinarians received their white coats at the School of Veterinary Medicine and School of Medicine White Coat Ceremonies, held on August 31 and September 14, respectively. The ceremonies took place in Patrick F. Adams Hall.

 

View SOM White Coat Ceremony Instagram reel

 

White Coat Ceremonies are a storied tradition within both medical and veterinary medical schools. During the event, a white coat is placed on each student’s shoulders—sometimes by family members or mentors who have completed the same journey before them.

Medical students then recite the Oath of Professionalism, where they pledge to honor the sacred trust and privilege society places on medical professionals while treating their patients. Veterinary medical students affirm an oath of commitment by agreeing to uphold the principles of veterinary medical ethics and the highest professional standards.

 

View SVM White Coat Ceremony Instagram reel

 

What it’s like to be coated? SGU’s newest physicians- and veterinarians-in-training share what it means to them to put on their white coat.

 

“I feel incredibly grateful and very happy to have been coated by SVM professor emeritus, Dr. Rhonda Pinckney. She is an amazing woman and doctor. She’s done a lot with her career and it’s very inspirational. I hope to be as great as she is one day. As for me, I knew I wanted to work with animals when I learned about endangered and extinct species and realized that a lot of human actions harm wildlife. So, I decided I wanted to do something about that.”

– Sydney Stephens
Charlotte, NC
Term 1 SVM

 

“It feels surreal to be sitting next to my classmates and having my family and friends here to support me at my White Coat Ceremony. I’m the first in my family to go to college and the first to pursue a career in medicine. This was also my first time ever traveling overseas. I did the SeeSGU Program and once I visited the campus in person, I was sold. Being here feels amazing because so much effort, time, dedication, and hard work went into preparing for this moment.”

    – Eric Amason
Houston, TX
Term 1 SOM

 

View the full SOM White Coat Ceremony on YouTube

 

 

“I know I made the right decision choosing SGU because of all the support I’ve received so far on my journey to becoming the first doctor in my family. And being able to put on that white coat means I’ve taken another step toward that dream. And as a bonus, the campus is beautiful. I wake up to an ocean view, I go to class with an ocean view, and I go to sleep to an ocean view.”

– Gape Ketshajwang
Botswana
Term 1 SOM

 

“I was crying the whole time during the ceremony because I couldn’t believe it. I’ve been dreaming about becoming a veterinarian or even getting into veterinary medical school and now I’m here and I got my white coat. Both my parents are veterinarians and although they couldn’t be here to coat me, they’re super proud of me and are cheering me on back home.”

  – Wilhemina Medina
Southern California
Term 1 SVM

 

View the full SVM White Coat Ceremony on YouTube

 

– Ray-Donna Peters

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