Students and faculty from St. George’s University (SGU) made their mark at the 43rd Annual Meeting of the American Association of Clinical Anatomists (AACA), held June 12–15 at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Among the University’s contributions were research presentations by students in the SGU School of Medicine/Northumbria University (SGU/NU) program, a faculty-led session exploring new applications of medical illustration, and leadership involvement reflecting SGU’s longstanding ties to the association.
The meeting provided an international platform for educators, researchers, clinicians, and students to showcase discoveries, explore new approaches to anatomical sciences, and build collaborations that advance the field.
Student researchers take the global stage
Student research was a highlight of SGU’s presence at the meeting, with SGU/NU students sharing their findings through an oral presentation and four poster presentations.
Third-year student Revin Jose earned the Brian MacPherson Award for his oral presentation examining the reliability of ultrasound in identifying and measuring the Berrettini Anastomosis, a natural nerve connection in the hand. The award, which recognizes outstanding student research, provides assistance for students to attend AACA conferences and participate in related professional activities, helping them gain valuable exposure to the field.
Fellow third-year students Srosha Khanijou and Anatrita Alice Libbey presented research exploring inter-examiner reliability in liver ultrasound and identifying the most reliable anatomical landmark for novice learners. Their work explored ways to improve ultrasound training by helping beginners develop greater consistency in identifying anatomical structures.
“Presenting at AACA was both exciting and rewarding,” Libbey said. “The experience reinforced the importance of collaboration and innovation in healthcare education. Being able to exchange ideas, gain new perspectives, and represent SGU on an international stage made it especially meaningful.”
Drs. Sadia Javaid and Haider Hilal, who supervised the students’ research, commended their presentation skills and noted that the experience provided valuable opportunities to strengthen their research capabilities and professional communication skills.
“It was incredibly rewarding to see our students present with confidence, engage with experts from around the world, and earn recognition for their work,” Dr. Hilal said. “Their success speaks to the quality of the research being conducted at SGU/NU and the impact these experiences can have on their academic and professional development.”
Faculty innovation on the conference floor
SGU faculty also contributed to the meeting’s academic program, showcasing how emerging technologies can enhance anatomical education and research.
Among the presenters was David Nahabedian, assistant director and senior medical illustrator at SGU, who led a hands-on workshop titled 3D Slicer: Beginner to Advanced. The session demonstrated how medical imaging data can be transformed into detailed 3D models that support learning, teaching, and research.
“What excites me most about this work is its ability to bridge technology, education, and research,” Nahabedian said. “By giving educators and researchers the tools to create accurate, interactive anatomical models, we can bring complex concepts to life, spark curiosity, and open new possibilities for learning.”
Service and leadership within AACA
SGU’s contributions to the association extended beyond research and presentations into leadership. Dr. Marios Loukas, president of St. George’s University and dean of the School of Medicine, assumed the role of past president and led the ceremonial leadership transition, conferring the presidential Medal and Gavel to incoming president Dr. Nirusha Lachman.
“SGU’s continuous presence at AACA over the past 21 years reflects the depth of talent, research, and educational excellence within our University,” said Dr. Loukas. “Seeing our students and faculty contribute to research and participate in committees and discussions that shape the future of anatomical sciences and medical education demonstrates the impact we can have beyond our campus.”
AACA returns to Grenada in 2028
The University will welcome the international anatomical sciences community back to Grenada when it hosts the 45th AACA Annual Meeting in 2028. The event will mark the association’s return to SGU’s campus, which previously hosted its 29th Annual Meeting in 2012.
Dr. Kazzara Raeburn, assistant professor of anatomical sciences, and associate dean of Basic Sciences Curriculum, alongside Dr. Loukas, will serve as local hosts for the 2028 meeting.
“I am particularly proud that St. George’s University will once again have the opportunity to host this distinguished gathering of experts and emerging professionals in 2028 on our campus in Grenada,” said Dr. Loukas. “Together, we will celebrate excellence, share new discoveries, strengthen collaborations, and inspire the next generation of healthcare educators, researchers, and clinicians.”
