Celebrating National Women’s Physician Day 2025: SGU Alumni Association Recognizes Alumnae

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SOMAA National Women’s Physician Day guest speakers

St. George’s University School of Medicine Alumni Association (SOMAA) celebrated accomplished alumnae during National Women’s Physician Day (February 3) by hosting a virtual panel discussion with SGU women doctors.

St. George’s University School of Medicine Alumni Association (SOMAA) celebrated accomplished alumnae during National Women’s Physician Day (February 3) by hosting a virtual panel discussion with SGU women doctors.

With the theme “SGU Women in Medicine: Stories of Success,” the pre-recorded discussion shared the stories of how several women physicians (and SGU grads) successfully became MDs and their advice to other women doctors and medical students.

The panelists included:

The panel was moderated by Danielle Krol, MD ’12, medical officer at the FDA’s Oncology Center of Excellence and SOMAA treasurer.

In her welcome remarks, Frances McGill, MD ’81, FACOG, and SGU professor emeritus of clinical skills and obstetrics & gynecology, said the University’s first graduating class in 1981 had just four women who earned their MD. Today, women represent just over 50 percent of recent incoming classes in the School of Medicine.

“We are going to hear tonight the success stories of our graduates, and we wish to celebrate all their accomplishments. These are women who are from across the globe. These are women who have come from varying backgrounds. For some, they are the first person in their family who went to college,” Dr. McGill said. “We are very proud to be from St. George’s University and we welcome you.”

Topics covered by the panelists included:

  • Their paths to becoming MDs and how they came to be the physicians they are today;
  • Their perspectives on what it means to be a leader and advice to those who aspire to be leaders in their fields;
  • Work-life balance tips, especially when it comes to balancing marriage and children; and
  • The importance of mentorship.

“We are so proud to acknowledge our female doctors who continue to provide excellent care and are committed to making a difference in the lives of their patients every day,” said Brendon LaGrenade, vice provost of SGU and director of Alumni Affairs.

View the webinar recording

Here are some key insights from the panelists:

Dr. Lozo on leadership advice: “Learn who you are. Learn your own leadership style and learn your own potential. We all have different ideas of who we are and what we can do.”

Dr. Self on work-life balance: “The number one thing where I find balance in my life is enjoying my work and the people that I work with. If I didn’t have the enjoyment of the job that I do and the people that I work with, it would be difficult to enjoy the other part(s) of my life. […] And secondly, making the most of [the] days I have off.”

Dr. Best on the benefits of emergency medicine: “There are a lot of different specialties in? emergency medicine. People that are interested in global health can do administration, you can even do ICU, you can go into pain management, you can do sports medicine, you could probably even get into urgent care primary care. A lot of people do aesthetics on the side, so it’s a very flexible specialty in that if you are experiencing any kind of burnout, you can easily pivot into something else.”

Dr. Lake on mentorship: “Mentorship is very important especially when students are starting their medical education journey. A lot of the students have many different interests, and they don’t know which path to go, so personally I believe in having several mentors—I have a mentor for leadership, and I have a mentor to help me guide through like my academic pathway. They have provided both constructive criticism of my strengths and weaknesses, and things that I can work on to evolve as a better individual and medical educator. And I tried to do the same for the students that I interact with.

Dr. McGill on mentorship: “Look for role models and when you get comfortable, talk to them about yourself. Don’t be afraid to be open and say, “you know, I just don’t know if I can do this’ or ‘I’m not sure what I want to do’ or ‘there are all these opportunities that are out there, but I’m concerned about my ability. I’m concerned about the time commitment.’”

Dr. Patel on building a support system: “Do what you can in terms of building a network […] whether that is finding a partner, whether that’s finding friends, whether that’s finding your family or choosing to do residency, fellowship. Wherever you have a network, have support because you never know when you’re going to need to rely on them.”

 

 

— Laurie Chartorynsky

 

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From SGU Grad to Clinical Faculty: “It’s Inspiring to Guide Students on the Same Journey I Took”

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Headshot of Dr. Nader Mahmood

From student to mentor, Nader Mahmood, MD ’08, has come full circle at St. George’s University School of Medicine. Now a clinical faculty member, he oversees and guides SGU students while drawing from his own experiences.

“Being an SGU alumnus and now an instructor is incredibly rewarding,” said Dr. Mahmood, a pulmonologist at North Jersey Pulmonary Associates. “I vividly remember the challenges, excitement, and determination required as a student, which helps me connect on a personal level with my students.”

Dr. Mahmood serves as an internal medicine clinical assistant professor at St. Mary’s General Hospital/Saint Clare’s Hospital, one of SGU’s 75+ affiliated hospitals and clinical sites. He has been an SGU clinical faculty member since May 2023.

He is also a part of the core teaching faculty for the Internal Medicine Residency Program affiliated with New York Medical College/Prime Health Care Consortium at St. Mary’s General Hospital and St. Clare’s Health. Dr. Mahmood said he has been deeply involved with this program since its inception, contributing to its development from the ground up.

Recently, Dr. Mahmood also assumed the role of pulmonary site director at St. Mary’s General Hospital for the Pulmonary and Critical Care Fellowship Program affiliated with New York Medical College/St. Michael’s Medical Center. In this position, he can further contribute to the training and mentorship of future specialists in pulmonary and critical care medicine.

 

“It’s inspiring to guide my students on the same journey I took, offering insights and encouragement. Knowing the transformative role SGU played in my career, I feel a deep sense of gratitude and responsibility to give back by shaping the next generation of physicians.”

 

SGU News sat down with Dr. Mahmood to learn more about his career as a physician and an instructor.

St. George’s University: What are some of the ways that you interact with SGU students as a clinical faculty member?

Dr. Mahmood: Some of the ways include:

  • Conducting bedside teaching rounds, which provides hands-on clinical experience,
  • Reviewing and discussing clinical cases focusing on critical thinking and diagnostic strategies,
  • Supervising students during procedural training, especially with airway management,
  • Offering one-on-one mentorship, guiding students through research projects and career planning, and
  • Leading lectures and interactive workshops that integrate clinical knowledge with foundational science.

SGU: What are some of the skills that students might acquire during clinicals?

Dr. Mahmood: In clinicals, students learn to develop:

  • Proficiency in critical care decision-making and the ability to manage complex medical cases,
  • Skills in diagnostic reasoning, particularly in evaluating pulmonary disorders,
  • Experience with interpreting pulmonary diagnostic procedures and performing bedside ultrasound,
  • Strong foundations in communication and teamwork, which are essential for patient care and interprofessional collaboration, and
  • An appreciation for evidence-based medicine through active participation in research and academic discussions.

SGU: What fascinates you about pulmonary medicine? Why did you choose that specialty?

Dr. Mahmood: Pulmonary medicine captivates me because of its diverse and dynamic nature. The specialty involves addressing critical, often life-threatening conditions while also focusing on chronic care. The interplay between respiratory physiology, innovative technologies, and evolving therapies keeps me intellectually engaged.

I was fortunate during my clinical rotations at SGU to encounter exceptional mentors who nurtured my appreciation for pulmonary medicine. Their guidance and expertise deepened my understanding of the field and inspired me to pursue it with passion.
I chose this specialty because it allows me to make a tangible difference in acute care settings while also fostering long-term relationships with patients.

SGU: What is one piece of advice that you would like to pass on to students to be successful in their clinical education?

Dr. Mahmood: Embrace a growth mindset. Clinical education is as much about mastering the art of medicine as it is about navigating uncertainty and learning from mistakes. Stay curious, seek feedback, and never lose sight of the compassion at the heart of patient care. Remember that every patient encounter is an opportunity to learn and grow.

SGU: Why did you choose medicine as your career path? What appealed to you about going to med school?

Dr. Mahmood: Medicine appealed to me because of its unique blend of intellectual challenge and the opportunity to make a profound impact on people’s lives. The ability to combine science with compassion, problem-solving, and lifelong learning was irresistible.

SGU: Why did you choose SGU?

Dr. Mahmood: SGU has a stellar reputation, in my opinion, but what truly set it apart for me were the unique training opportunities it offered to me. The ability to train at multiple hospitals, not only across the United States but also internationally, was a major highlight for me, especially during my clinical years.

SGU: How did SGU prepare you for your career and specialty?

Dr. Mahmood: SGU provided me with a solid foundation that prepared me exceptionally well for my career and specialty. The rigorous academic curriculum and diverse clinical training opportunities gave me the knowledge and skills I needed to excel in medicine. SGU’s emphasis on global and culturally diverse medical education broadened my perspective and helped me develop a holistic approach to patient care.

SGU: What was your own clinical experience at SGU like? How did it contribute to your success?

Dr. Mahmood: During my clinical rotations, I had the chance to train at various hospitals in different settings, which exposed me to a wide range of cases and patient populations. This hands-on experience was invaluable in shaping my diagnostic and critical thinking abilities. Additionally, SGU’s supportive environment and dedicated faculty played a crucial role in nurturing my confidence and passion for medicine.

SGU: What advice would you offer to students who are considering SGU?

Dr. Mahmood: My advice to students considering SGU is to embrace the opportunity with an open mind and a commitment to excellence. SGU offered me an amazing education with a unique global perspective that prepares you to thrive in diverse clinical environments.

SGU’s diverse environment exposes you to different cultures, perspectives, and healthcare systems. Use this experience to grow both personally and professionally.

To me, SGU has a proven track record of preparing successful physicians. Trust the education and training you will receive and know that your hard work will pay off.

 

 

— Juliette Kimmins

 

 

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SGU Announces New Admissions Partnership with the University of the Fraser Valley

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University of Fraser Valley

St. George’s University (SGU) has launched a new admissions partnership with the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) that will grant qualified UFV students fast-track admission into the St. George’s University School of Medicine and School of Veterinary Medicine.

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

The partnership creates a “4+4” pathway that provides students who have successfully completed a four-year pre-medical or pre-veterinary sciences curriculum at UFV admission to the four-year MD or DVM programs at SGU. UFV students interested in pursuing the pathway must maintain strong overall undergraduate and sciences GPAs and complete all prerequisite coursework in the health sciences.

“This partnership between UFV and SGU brings together two global Universities that are committed to supporting students’ educational goals and aspirations. We are confident that the UFV students who pursue this opportunity with SGU will be successful not only because our academic programs prepared them well to succeed, but also because SGU has a strong history of excellence and facilitating a learning environment where their students can thrive” said Dr. James Mandigo, provost and vice-president Academic at UFV.

Qualified students will be eligible to complete the basic sciences component of the SGU MD program in either two years of study in Grenada, or one year at Northumbria University in the United Kingdom and one year in Grenada. Students’ clinical rotations in their third and fourth years of study will take place with SGU affiliates, including those in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. SGU School of Medicine works with a network of more than 75 hospitals and health systems in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, offering clinical and ambulatory training.

Students pursuing a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine will complete three years of study in Grenada and a clinical year at an SGU-affiliated university in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Ireland, or the Netherlands.

UFV students who are accepted into the MD program while meeting the academic requirements will be awarded a scholarship of US $85,000 at SGU School of Medicine. Students will also be eligible to be considered for all of SGU’s School of Medicine scholarships. SGU granted more than US $71 million in scholarships in the 2023-2024 academic year.*

 

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

SGU Marks 30 Years of Innovation: Research Day Presentation Winners Revealed

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SGU Research Day and Phi Zeta Research Emphasis Day recently marked its 30th year of uniting faculty, students, and regional collaborators to explore research across all four Schools at St. George’s University. Kicking off the event was Dr. Jacqueline McGlade, marine biologist and environmental informatics professor, who gave the keynote address “Natural Prosperity: Understanding the True Value of Nature’s Contributions to People.”

Held at Upper Modica Hall on November 2, Research Day this year showcased an impressive 128 presentations, 68 of which were poster presentations and 60 oral presentations by faculty and students. There were also two symposia, which included topics such as “Put Yourself In It!: Transforming Grenada’s sustainable future through Creative, People-centred Interventions” and “Wisdom from the Field: Tips from an Educational Research Practitioner.”

“This year marked the 30th anniversary of Research Day which was first held in October 1994,” said Dr. Calum Macpherson, director of research at St. George’s University. “This event once again brought research to the forefront at SGU, as scholarly contributions were shared from students, faculty, and other collaborators. We thank all those who contributed to this year’s event and made it such a memorable occasion.”

A panel made up of SGU faculty reviewed the presentations and chose winners for each category based on originality, scientific merit, and level of involvement. All winners were presented with a plaque at an awards ceremony held on November 15 at the campus-based Windward Islands Research and Education Foundation (WINDREF).

Here are the winners:

Outstanding Faculty Oral Presentations: 

1. Sarah Gluschitz – SOM instructor, Department of Anatomical Sciences

Title: Challenging conventional medical illustrations of the menstrual cycle: Utilizing a systematic review and thematic analysis to examine the linear and cyclical models (co-authors: Anamaria Gluschitz and Robert Hage)

2. Stuart Gordon – SVM professor, Department of Large Animal Medicine and Surgery

Title: Multiple veterinary stakeholders’ perspectives on important professionalism attributes for career success in veterinary clinical practice: Developing a framework of veterinary professionalism (co-authors: Heidi Janicke, Dianne Gardner, Jenny Weston, Charlotte Bolwell, Jackie Benschop, and Tim Parkinson)

Outstanding Student Oral Presentations: 

1. Mohammad Fadaie – SOM, Term 5

Title: Criss-Cross Hearts: A meta-analysis (co-author: Dr. Marios Loukas)

2. Hunter Byrd – SVM, Term 5

Title: Whole Genome Assembly of a Novel Avipoxvirus in a Carib Grackle (Quiscalus lugubris) in Grenada, West Indies (co-authors: Chiqian Han, Sophie Moittie, Alfred Chikweto, Wayne Sylvester, and Katharina Kopp )

Outstanding Faculty Poster Presentations: 

1. Tiffany Clementson – SOM lecturer, Department of Microbiology, Immunology, Pharmacology

Title: Use of Case Simulations in Nursing Pharmacology

2. Vanessa Matthew-Belmar – SVM instructor, Department of Pathobiology

Title: Current Status of Rabies virus in animals in Grenada (co-authors: A. Chikweto, S. Cheetham, E. Brathwaite, M. Matthew-Bernard, U. Zieger, M. Wilkerson, and A. Alhassan)

Outstanding Student Poster Presentations: 

1. Mael Oujaddou – SOM, Term 5

Title: Ultrasound Visualization of the Superficial Palmar Arch (co-authors: Goeun Kim, Anda Boonsiri, Mohamed Aboutaleb, and Kristna Thompson)

2. Penny Wang – SVM, Term 5

Title: Development of an electrocardiography model for recording heart rate activity in the common guppy (Poecilia reticulata) (co-authors: David Marancik and Hector Zerpa)

Outstanding School of Arts and Sciences Faculty Presentation: 

Antonia MacDonald, professor, Department of Humanities and Social Sciences

Title: “Know what you know”: Merle Collins’ Ocean Stirrings as a Model for Sustainable Cultural Development

Outstanding Research Award, WINDREF: 

Emily Meade – SVM, Fourth-year student

Title: An investigation of the physical characteristics and in vitro antimicrobial activities of local honey sold by beekeepers/apiaries in Grenada, West Indies (co-authors: Andy Alhassan, Satesh Bidaisee, and Sharianne Suepaul)

Phi Zeta plaques/certificates were awarded to the following students for their participation: 

Jackson Burkey, Hunter Byrd, Elizabeth Coelho, Magali Duran, Elizabeth Fournier, Luke Griffin, Chiqian Han, Ashley Long, Shelley Lownds, Emily Meade, Samanntha Mueller, Shelby Richter, Kaylee Schultz, Penny Wang, and Elizabeth Williams.

 

– Ray-Donna Peters

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St. George’s University Announces New Admissions Partnership with McMaster University’s W Booth School

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Photo of SGU campus surrounded by water and blue sky

St. George’s University has launched a new admissions partnership with the W Booth School in the Faculty of Engineering at McMaster University. This partnership will grant qualified BTech Biotechnology students fast-track admission into the St. George’s University School of Medicine.

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

The partnership creates a BTech in Biotechnology to Doctor of Medicine pathway that provides students who have successfully completed the Bachelor of Technology in Biotechnology at the W Booth School and meet the requirements for entry with admission to the four-year MD program at SGU. Booth students interested in pursuing the pathway must maintain a strong overall GPA and a strong GPA in prerequisite coursework.

Qualified students will be eligible to complete the basic sciences component of the SGU MD program in either two years of study in Grenada or one year at Northumbria University in the United Kingdom and one year in Grenada. Students’ clinical rotations will take place with SGU’s affiliate network of more than 75 hospitals and health systems in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom offering clinical and ambulatory training.

“This opportunity significantly broadens the academic and career horizons for our BTech-Biotechnology graduates, offering invaluable global experience,” says Heather Sheardown, dean of Engineering at McMaster. “We eagerly anticipate our first alumni embarking on this journey, gaining the academic and practical expertise needed to make meaningful contributions to healthcare.”

BTech Biotechnology students who are accepted into the pathway with a sufficiently high overall GPA and sciences GPA will be awarded a scholarship of US $85,000 at SGU School of Medicine. Students will also be eligible to be considered for all of SGU’s School of Medicine scholarships. SGU granted more than US $71 million in scholarships in the 2023-2024 academic year.*

 

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

 

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2 SOM Grads Featured in International News Publications

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Headshots of Jeff Vacirca and Orapeleng Phuswane-Katse

Two St. George’s University School of Medicine graduates, Jeff Vacirca, MD ’98, and Orapeleng Phuswane-Katse, MD ’11, BS ’07, are making an impression across various international news publications.

On World Cancer Day, Dr. Vacirca shared his tips for preventing the disease in news outlets throughout Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

Dr. Vacirca, who is based in New York, serves as CEO and chairman of the Board at New York Cancer & Blood Specialists and is the co-founder of OneOncology. According to OneOncology, the organization “invests in and collaborates with [medical] practices to deliver comprehensive cancer care in communities.”

Addressing audiences in India, Dr. Vacirca shared:

“On World Cancer Day, we are reminded of the profound impact cancer has on India and other nations worldwide. By embracing healthier lifestyles, getting necessary vaccinations, and encouraging early detection, we can collectively reduce the burden of this disease and pave the way for a healthier future for all Indians.”

Read Dr. Vacirca’s insights on incorporating practices for cancer prevention into your daily life.

 

Read the full article

 

Dr. Phuswane-Katse was recently profiled in the Botswana-based publication The Voice for her work in public health at the Ministry of Health and Wellness.  

In her role as head of preventive programmes, she manages diseases among the population through public health program planning, implementation, and evaluation at both district and national levels. 

A graduate of SGU’s School of Medicine and the School of Arts and Sciences, Dr. Phuswane-Katse is using her skills and expertise gained from SGU to make a positive impact in her community.  

“We should all strive for an inclusive healthcare system, which is a system that reaches everyone regardless of their socioeconomic status or distance from healthcare facilities,” said Dr. Phuswane-Katse. “One of the ways I am working towards an inclusive health system is by bringing mobile healthcare outreach to rural communities.” 

Read more about Dr. Phuswane-Katse’s journey in The Voice. 

 

Read the full article

 

 

— Juliette Kimmins

 

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SGU Expands Admissions Partnership with Dillard University

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St. George's University - Grenada campus

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

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SGU’s Assistant Dean of Research: “Research is part of our DNA”

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research in a laboratory

The opportunity to engage in and learn to do meaningful research is a fundamental part of a high-quality medical education. Recognizing this, St. George’s University’s School of Medicine has strengthened its support for students and faculty involved in research, creating new opportunities to advance knowledge and the practice of medicine.

“A good physician is not only one who knows a lot about medicine but one who keeps himself or herself at the forefront of their field,” explained Dr. Martin Forde, the School of Medicine’s assistant dean of research and professor in the SOM’s Department of Public Health and Preventive Medicine. “This is achieved either by contributing to the body of knowledge in medicine or by interpreting and incorporating the latest research insights into the treatment of patients. This allows them to provide their patients the best and highest standard of care they can.”

SGU’s Office of Research is committed to nurturing a “spirit of inquiry” by providing support and resources to students and faculty to help bring their ideas to fruition. The School of Medicine also has two dedicated institutes—the Medical Student Research Institute and Faculty Research Institute––which provide additional avenues for students and faculty to engage in research and other scholarly activities.

“At SGU, we firmly believe that research should be a core component that is integrated into every medical student’s education,” Dr. Forde said. “Over the past few years, we have worked to embed research into the fabric of the medical school experience, essentially making it part of SGU’s DNA.”

These efforts have yielded impressive results. In 2023, the School of Medicine community, including basic sciences and clinical students as well as affiliated faculty, published over 874 peer-reviewed journal articles. Of that, the 172 publications by Basic Sciences students and faculty was the highest output among all Caribbean medical schools, according to a PubMed search for School of Medicine authorship affiliations by the Office of Research for the year 2023.  In addition, 126 students were honored with research and scholarly distinction awards at the 2024 commencement ceremonies.

Dr. Forde shared with SGU News more details on why engaging in research is beneficial for would-be physicians, and how med students at SGU can get involved. Here’s what he had to say.

SGU: What opportunities are there for School of Medicine students to engage in research?

Dr. Forde: Research, and the skills to conduct it have been built into SGU’s MD curriculum. In Term 3, students gain foundational knowledge on how to do statistics and epidemiology. Then, when students do their clinical rotations, they learn how to do translational research, learning how to incorporate the latest research findings into patient treatment and care. The assignments the students get during this phase of their training teaches them how to analyze and apply insights from published research so as to develop treatment regimens that are best tailored to their patient’s needs.

In particular, the Medical Student Research Institute (MSRI) program allows medical students who have demonstrated academic excellence the opportunity to further hone their research skills by working with an assigned faculty mentor on a research project. Students can enter the MSRI program in their Basic Sciences years or during their clinical years.

 

“At SGU, we firmly believe that research should be a core component that is integrated into every medical student’s education. Over the past few years, we have worked to embed research into the fabric of the medical school experience, essentially making it part of SGU’s DNA.”

 

All students who achieve significant research milestones, such as authoring a peer-reviewed research publication or presenting at a major medical conference while in the SOM are eligible to graduate with distinctions such as “Distinction in Scholarly Activity” or Distinction in Research.”

SGU: What are some research topics that students are currently working on through the MSRI?

Dr. Forde: Current research in the Basic Sciences MSRI spans a wide range of topics, including reviews, clinical investigations, and population studies in Grenada and elsewhere. For instance, environmental health studies are investigating the health impacts of pollutants like bisphenol and PFAS, or improved water filtration systems, on overall health. Other studies are focused on critical public health issues such as the impacts of hurricanes, stroke awareness, and HPV vaccination efforts.

SGU: What benefits will students gain from participating in research in med school?

Dr. Forde: Engaging in research allows students to move beyond simply assimilating and absorbing existing knowledge to meaningfully contributing to expanding the knowledge base of the medical field. By participating in research, students transition from just being consumers of information to becoming creators, helping to fill the gaps in the field that were missing and potentially devising innovative solutions to improve patient care.

In the process, students develop valuable skills that will enhance their approach patient care Including:

  • Enabling critical thinking and analytical skills;
  • Understanding and interpreting evidence-based medicine, ensuring treatments are grounded in solid research;
  • Enhanced problem-solving skills, fostering creative and effective solutions;
  • Improved confidence and interpersonal communication skills, essential for patient and peer interactions; and
  • Enhancing their ability to communicate complex information clearly, accurately, and concisely honed through research paper writing.

Involvement in research also provides practical skills, such as:

  • Learning how to make connections while collaborating with other researchers.
  • Securing strong letters of recommendation, and importantly,
  • Enabling them to distinguish themselves during residency interviews.

SGU: What resources are available to help students get started?

Dr. Forde: SGU now offers all SGU students and faculty access to Nature’s Masterclasses on Demand, a premier educational resource.  This web-based platform provides a comprehensive suite of 24 courses that guides users through every stage of the research process. All are encouraged to utilize this valuable resource.

Additionally, the School of Medicine provides financial support to cover the publication fees for faculty and students whose papers are accepted by reputable, non-predatory journals, provided they clearly acknowledge their affiliation with St. George’s University, School of Medicine.

SGU: Looking forward, what is on the horizon for research opportunities at SGU?

Dr. Forde: As we strive to make research an even more integral part of the SGU experience, we are actively developing new initiatives to further cultivate and foster a spirit of inquiry and research among our students and faculty.

 

 

– Laurie Chartorynsky

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The 5 Most Impactful School of Medicine Stories of 2024

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Collage with the top SOM stories of 2024

As the year comes to a close, the St. George’s University School of Medicine community has much to be proud of. An expanded clinical site network in the US, 940+ US residency placements, and several new and improved campus facilities are just some of the exciting benchmarks of 2024.*

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

 

1. Match 2024

Match Day 2024 marked a significant milestone in the careers of SOM grads.

This year, more than 940 SOM students and graduates secured residency positions in the US.* There were matches in 22 specialties including surgery, child neurology, diagnostic radiology, and more.* Match 2024 was particularly notable for the Rienzo family–SGU alums and brothers, Francis Rienzo, MD ’88 and Peter Rienzo, MD ’85, witnessed their children match into residency, Emily Rienzo, MD ’24 and Jake Rienzo, MD ’24, respectively.

Read what it felt like to Match in 2024 and about the Rienzo family legacy

 

 

2. Campus Enhancements

As SGU continues to improve its campus for students, faculty, and staff, 2024 saw some exciting new additions and upgrades. The campus added a dog park, a multifaith prayer area, a new large animal farm, and tiki bar. The University also upgraded many classrooms and dorms.

See the new campus enhancements of 2024

 

 

Students coated at ceremony

3. White Coat Ceremonies

First term med students marked the start of their professional journeys to become doctors during this year’s White Coat Ceremonies. During the ceremonies, students affirmed their commitment to the study of medicine, pledged to adhere to values of humanism, and took an oath of professionalism.

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

 

 

4 SGU students stand on a roof that they are helping repair.

4. SGU Students and Alumni Give Back After Hurricane Beryl

On July 1, 2024, Grenada and its sister islands, Petite Martinique and Carriacou, were hit by Category 5 storm Hurricane Beryl. In the wake of the destruction, St. George’s University students stepped up to aid in the recovery and rebuilding efforts. These efforts included assisting nursing staff, fixing damage to roofs and other structures, beach cleanups, organizing donations for supplies and funds, and more.

The SOM Alumni Association also played a critical role in gathering resources post-hurricane by raising more than $77,000 USD.

Read more about SGU students’ relief efforts and SOM alumni’s charity drive for Grenadians impacted by Beryl

 

 

Clinical training

5. US Clinical Site Network Expands 

SGU added new sites for clinical students to complete their rotations in Arizona, Georgia, and Florida this year.

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

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

 

*Data as of October 2024

 

— Juliette Kimmins

 

 

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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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