VCOM - Auburn 2017 Yearbook

2015 - 2017 AUBURN YEARBOOK

inspired a college where Vision, Caring and Osteopathic Medicine align T he Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM)–Auburn campus was inspired by a vision to bring physicians to medically underserved areas. Studies revealed that 60 of Alabama’s 67 counties have a shortage of primary care physicians. Rural counties in particular, where 44 percent of Alabama’s residents live, suffer the greatest need. In a bold move, Auburn University sought to address this physician shortage in Alabama. During the search for a partner, it became clear that VCOM was the best choice because of its track record of success and devotion to caring for underserved populations. Members of the inaugural class at VCOM-Auburn reported for their first day of class in July of 2015. Since then, two additional classes of medical students have reported to VCOM-Auburn to begin their journey toward easing the primary care physician shortage in Alabama and beyond. The inaugural class has moved on to clinical rotations and continues its march toward graduation. Our students are inspired by a College whose mission and focus is on caring for those most in need. We are all inspired by the principles of osteopathic medicine, treating a whole patient— body, mind and spirit VCOM is inspired .

New York

Pennsylvania

Ohio

Maryland

West Virginia

Blacksburg, Virginia

Kentucky

North Carolina

Tennessee

Spartanburg, South Carolina

Auburn, Alabama

Georgia

Campus Locations

Mississippi

Florida

Appalachian Region Target Appalachian States

The mission of the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM)

is to prepare globally-minded, community-focused physicians

to meet the needs of rural and medically underserved populations

and promote research to improve human health.

4 introduction

6 highlights 18 current students 58 student organizations 96 outreach 110 faculty and staff

Dixie Tooke-Rawlins, DO, FACOFP President and Provost W elcoming its inaugural class in 2015, the VCOM-Auburn campus has carried forth the VCOM mission “to educate globally minded, community focused physicians to provide care for rural and medically underserved populations and to advance research to improve human health” in Alabama and surrounding southern states. As you will see in this yearbook, the participation of the Auburn students and faculty in community outreach programs in Alabama, as well as in VCOM’s Global Health outreach programs have demonstrated their commitments to serve. The Auburn campus’ students and faculty have also shown their commitment to excellence in education, as was reaffirmed by the excellent board scores achieved by Auburn’s inaugural class. In addition, the Auburn faculty’s commitment to research and advancing scientific discovery was established with over 20 faculty funded grants in the first two years, supporting both biomedical and clinical research. We hope you will enjoy this publication that reflects the culture established by our VCOM-Auburn campus, a culture of service and excellence in medical care that will lead to better care for rural Alabama and the medically underserved populations across the state.

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Elizabeth A. Palmarozzi, DO, FACOFP Dean for the Auburn Campus T he VCOM-Auburn campus is an inspiring and beautiful place, situated within the Auburn University campus. We try to nurture a family atmosphere, while advancing the best education possible for our students to prepare them as future physicians. The inaugural class of 2019 students at VCOM-Auburn laid the foundation for future students at our campus, while the second class of 2020 has solidly built upon that foundation. Through our collaboration with Auburn University, outstanding experiences, activities and resources are available to our students. We strive to offer students the best in faculty, instruction, hands-on experience and technology. We do not take lightly our mission of education, service, access, research and outreach. It has been a pleasure to watch as the inaugural class has established student organizations, volunteered in the community and abroad, and began clinical rotations in the summer of 2017. It is bittersweet seeing them move on, however, this next experience brings them even closer to becoming critically-needed physicians. We hope to instill in these students osteopathic principles and inspire in them a strong sense of service to the underserved in Alabama and beyond.

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Highlights

by Success

Highlights 2015 - 2016

In April 2015, VCOM-Auburn hosted its first Accepted Students Day for members of the inaugural class of 2019. Students and their families were invited to campus to have fellowship and a light orientation with the faculty, staff and administration at the Auburn campus. Though a few punch list items remained, the VCOM-Auburn campus building was ready for the first class of medical students in July of 2015! The 100,000 sq. ft. VCOM-Auburn building is located in the Auburn Technology Park, adjacent to the Auburn campus. Resources available to medical students are a state-of-the-art anatomy lab, two lecture auditoriums, an OMM lab, a library, study lounges, a microbiology and research space, a multipurpose room and a food vending area.

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VCOM–AUBURN ACCEPTED STUDENTS DAY

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VCOM-AUBURN CAMPUS BUILDING IS COMPLETED

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highlights

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FACULTY/STAFF ORIENTATION

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RIBBON CUTTING

In July of 2015, before the students reported to campus, members of the VCOM-Auburn faculty and staff spent time together for an orientation event to get to know each other, as well as learn about the policies and processes at VCOM. At the end of July of 2015, student members of the class of 2019 reported to campus for their orientation. They listened to several speakers, met in small groups to discuss life in medical school, attended lunches where they could meet faculty, staff and administration and even got to meet Auburn University’s mascot, Aubie. September 24, 2015 was a special day as representatives from VCOM, Auburn University and local government gathered to cut the ribbon on the VCOM-Auburn building.

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CLASS OF 2019 ORIENTATION

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Highlights 2015 - 2016

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VCOM-AUBURN HOLDS FIRST WHITE COAT CEREMONY

The very first White Coat Ceremony for VCOM-Auburn was held October 25, 2015 at the Auburn Arena. This was a proud day for the students and their families and friends as the students were honored with the white coats that they wear to represent the Osteopathic profession. This was also a symbolic day for VCOM’s administrators, faculty and staff. VCOM-Auburn students practiced casting and splinting in the first official procedural skills lab in the SIM Center. During these exercises, students get actual hands-on training in medical procedures. Students often remark about how much more they enjoy “learning by doing,” as opposed to learning with a book or computer. This casting and splinting event marked the first big training event that was held in the SIM Center.

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PROCEDURAL SKILLS LABS

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highlights

Another first during the inaugural year at VCOM-Auburn was the formation of the first 14 student organizations. Elections were held in November of 2016, and student members voted for organization officers. Since then, more organizations have been added, and these groups have been busy with social, educational and charitable activities. Research is a critical component of the VCOM-Auburn mission. Researchers had been working in several labs on the Auburn University campus, but the opening of the micro and research lab space at VCOM-Auburn gave them another way to further the college’s mission. This lab boasts several tools unique to the Auburn University campus including a Bio-Plex 3D multiplex system and a

Digital PCR machine. 8

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS COME TO CAMPUS

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ON-CAMPUS RESEARCH LABS BEGIN FUNCTION

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Highlights 2015 - 2016

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Despite being short on spare time, the busy medical students at VCOM-Auburn still found time through their student organizations to donate to charitable causes. Students held fund raisers, donated shoes and clothing, took snack bags to first responders and volunteered as laborers, just to name a few. Charitable efforts are ongoing, and continue to ramp up as student organizations are added at VCOM-Auburn, and seek to make a difference in the community. The class of 2019 was alone no longer on April 23, 2016, as members of the class of 2020 reported to campus for Accepted Students Day. Suddenly, the members of the class of 2019 were the grizzled medical school veterans handing out advice to new students. These new students would report to campus for orientation and the beginning of class in July of 2016.

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VCOM-AUBURN VOLUNTEERING EFFORTS

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CLASS OF 2020 ACCEPTED STUDENTS DAY

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highlights

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VCOM plays an important part in the community in many different ways including educating the public about its mission to train physicians of the future. On- campus tours were numerous over the first year as many different groups came to see how VCOM- Auburn educates its students. Tours included local and state government officials, grade school classes, children’s science camps, senior learning groups and high school students. Class of 2019 students were treated to an end-of-the- year party complete with “finisher” t-shirts and Steel City popsicles. Administrators held the party for the study-weary class to congratulate them for making it across the finish line at the end of the school year. Nice job class of 2019!

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COMMUNITY TOURS

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END OF YEAR PARTY

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Highlights 2016 - 2017

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During the 2016-2017 school year, students from the class of 2019 began sharpening their clinical skills in earnest during their IECEs (Interprofessional Early Clinical Experiences) and ECEs (Early Clinical Experiences). Students practiced their skills on and off campus, and also were able to work alongside other students from different disciplines including nursing, social work, nutrition and pharmacy. Many of these events offered medical outreach to the local community. An exciting and what many students call a life-changing opportunity began July 3, 2016 as VCOM-Auburn conducted its first medical mission trip to the Baxter Clinic in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. The VCOM team on this trip served approximately 470 pediatric and adult patients as students honed their skills and learned about the local culture. “Serving in Tegucigalpa was an extremely humbling and unbelievable experience that I will appreciate for the rest of my life,” said second-year student Sara Nelson.

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THE START OF IECE & ECE

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MISSION TRIPS BEGIN - JULY 2016

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highlights

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DISASTER DAY! - SPRING 2017

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CAMPUS HALLOWEEN PARTY

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On April 28, 2017, VCOM-Auburn held its first disaster day drill with the Auburn community, involving HAZMAT and tornado strike simulations. First-year students served as the day’s “victims,” while second- year students evaluated and treated the casualties. Upgrades to the VCOM pond, created in 1937 by Auburn University fishery scientist Homer Swingle, were completed this past year. This natural area is a great recreational benefit to VCOM-Auburn students and employees. It will also be utilized by AU faculty and students for research and field teaching experiences. The campus Halloween party returned, and has cemented itself as an important yearly social event. This year’s party featured a guest appearance by “Dr. Dayberry,” (above).

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VCOM POND COMPLETED

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Highlights 2016 - 2017

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In VCOM-Auburn’s first on-campus commissioning ceremony, Zachary Jarrett was sworn-in as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army. VCOM-Auburn boasts several students that are taking part in the Health Professions Scholarship Program in the U.S. Armed Forces, where they will serve at least four years of active duty upon completion of their residency. Twelve members of the Wilderness Medicine group within the VCOM-Auburn ACOEP (American College of Osteopathic Emergency Physicians) student organization competed in MedWar Tennessee, a wilderness medicine adventure race. Their hard work and training paid off as VCOM teams finished in first, third, sixth and 19th place!

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ZACHARY JARRETT COMMISSIONING 19

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MEDWAR TENNESSEE RACE SUCCESS

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highlights

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VCOM-Auburn students Nicholas Ryan and Kendall Talley placed first and second, respectively, in VCOM- Virginia’s Research Day. Ryan’s poster was titled: “Are We Making a Difference? Understanding the Impact of Public Health Education Modules on Nutrition Knowledge in Children in Honduras and El Salvador.” Talley’s poster was titled: “Assessment of Honduran and El Salvadoran children exposed to high violence environments while participating in violence prevention educational intervention.” The chili cookoff was VCOM-Auburn’s very first student organization campus event, so it holds a special place in everyone’s heart. The second year’s chili cookoff was a similarly special event with great food, music and fellowship during a beautiful early spring evening on the Ruffin farm. Members of the VCOM-Auburn class of 2019, along with faculty and staff, gathered on Thursday, June 15, 2017, for a “Boot the Second Years Celebration” at the Red Barn in Auburn University’s Ag Heritage Park. The celebration was held to recognize the class of 2019 as they finish the year up and move on to their clinical rotations.

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RESEARCH DAY

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SECOND ANNUAL CHILI COOKOFF

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CLASS OF 2019 STUDENTS GET THE BOOT

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Current Students

by Success

Auburn, Alabama

AUBURN Scholarships Many successful students have received scholarships to assist with their medical education. The majority of scholarships were awarded for academics or service. 2019 Nathan Albrecht National Health Service Corps Scholarship Program 2015-2016

Tiffiny Cooper Navy Health Professions Scholarship Program 2015-2016 Kayla DeSuza Conference USA Scholarship 2015-2016 Alexander Dorin Navy Health Professions Scholarship Program 2015-2016

Clayton Lester Army Health Professions Scholarship Program 2015-2016 Alexander Mills Army Health Professions Scholarship Program 2015-2016 Nicole Redenius New Student Auburn Campus Scholarship 2015-2016 Valerie Staples New Student Auburn Campus Scholarship 2015-2016 Taylor Thrash New Student Auburn Campus Scholarship 2015-2016 Andrew Wilkins New Student Auburn Campus Scholarship 2015-2016 Zachary Wise Air Force Health Professions Scholarship Program 2015-2016

David Emerine New Student Auburn Campus Scholarship 2015-2016 William Hamrick New Student Auburn Campus Scholarship 2015-2016 Evan Harrison New Student Auburn Campus Scholarship 2015-2016 Thomas Harrison New Student Auburn Campus Scholarship 2015-2016

Gayle Avery New Student Auburn Campus Scholarship 2015-2016

Kurt Barger Blue Horizon Scholarship 2015-2016 Conquistador Inc. Scholarship 2015-2016 James R. Hoffa Memorial Scholarship Fund 2015-2016

Michael Brisson New Student Auburn Campus Scholarship 2015-2016 Bishop Carmichael New Student Auburn Campus Scholarship 2015-2016 James Coley New Student Auburn Campus Scholarship 2015-2016

Courtney Johnson Air Force Health Professions Scholarship Program 2015-2016

Nicole Wyatt New Student Auburn Campus Scholarship 2015-2016

Jillian Keighron New Student Auburn Campus Scholarship 2015-2016

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scholarships & leadership

2020 Dorian Bonam National Health Service Corps Scholarship Program 2016-2020 Matthew Ferguson Navy Health Professions Scholarship Program 2016-2020 Craig Goldhagen Air Force Health Professions Scholarship Program 2016-2020 Zachary Jarrett Army Health Professions Scholarship Program 2016-2020 Hendrix LaFontant Navy Health Professions Scholarship Program 2016-2020 Victoria LaFontant Navy Health Professions Scholarship Program 2016-2020

Audie Schmid Air Force Health Professions Scholarship Program 2016-2020 Caitlin Stoll Americorps 2017-2018 Kenneth Stroer Army Health Professions Scholarship Program 2016-2020

Laura Mims Kids Cancer Alliance 2017-2018

Macy Phillips Memorial Hospital

Scholarship 2016-2020

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Building Traditions in Military Medicine Serving Our Military and the Community

A s a member of the inaugural class of 2019 at VCOM-Auburn, it was a great honor to serve as the first president of the Students Association of Military Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons (SAMOPS). When we started this chapter of the organization, my fellow officers and I began club activities with some guidance from the other campus presidents. Being a new SAMOPS chapter, we were able to build our own foundation. We wanted that foundation to be based on training young medical officers who may not have any prior military experience, and to prepare them for their summer training and subsequent military career. We also wanted to create a “giving back” environment for our fellow veterans and their families. The officers that were elected to help me represent VCOM-Auburn were outstanding. They completed their missions with accuracy and precision. One of our biggest accomplishments was organizing an in-house espresso sales event that raised money for the Pat Tillman Foundation. Throughout the year, events were centered around giving back to the veterans since they have done so much for us. Additionally, we held a 9/11 memorial tribute event at VCOM-Auburn where a fellow classmate played Taps on his trumpet while the flag was raised to pay respect to those who had fallen. Some of the officers wore their uniforms to salute the flag during this tribute. We were fortunate enough to accomplish a number of goals throughout the year, which was made possible by the hard work of SAMOPS members. These dedicated members always came together to see the mission through. The characteristics that the men and women of SAMOPS possess are what make great leaders. Every single SAMOPS member has the capacity to excel as both a medical student and a U.S. armed forces service member. I have utmost confidence that these men and women will always exceed expectations throughout their lives. In the end, these officers and future physicians took on a challenge, worked together to see it through, and gained even more confidence during the process. America!

Timothy Morgan 2nd Lieutenant Mississippi Army National Guard SAMOPS President, Class of 2019

Meet the VCOM Military Leaders

AIR FORCE Class of 2019 Courtney Johnson Zachary Wise Class of 2020 Craig Goldhagen Audie Schmid

ARMY Class of 2019 Clayton Lester Alexander Mills Class of 2020 Zachary Jarrett Kenneth Stroer

NAVY Class of 2019 Tiffiny Cooper Alexander Dorin Class of 2020 Matthew Ferguson Hendrix LaFontant Victoria LaFontant

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scholarships & leadership

T his year, a new group of SAMOPS members took over the reins and have since been working diligently to build upon the successful foundation that was laid by the inaugural class. During this new year, we have established a working relationship with the local Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) organizations to arrange a 9/11 memorial event for the coming fall. We have established contact with the Army and Navy ROTC organizations on the Auburn University campus in order to offer additional educational training opportunities to our members, as well as the Auburn campus ROTC members. SAMOPS is also committed to continuing its partnership with the Emergency Medicine club by sending members to become certified to lead BLS certification classes. We continue to work closely with our faculty advisor, Paul Brisson, MD, to help us sponsor different educational clinics for the coming year such as radiology and suturing clinics. Additionally, a few of our outstanding members organized a Memorial Day bike ride event that raised $1,000 for the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Foundation. This group helps returning veterans deal with the struggles of PTSD and other psychological health conditions acquired during time in service. We are extremely proud of what we have built so far, and we look forward to the opportunities and friendships that lie ahead of us. In addition to defending the freedom of the United States, SAMOPS members at VCOM-Auburn are working hard to better themselves as future physicians. We are also working to educate community members not only about the armed forces, but also about VCOM-Auburn and the osteopathic profession. I am especially honored to be a part of the VCOM- Auburn SAMOPS family, and I am glad to be a part of an organization that contributes to the betterment of our military service members.

Matt Pickich 2nd Lieutenant

U.S. National Guard SAMOPS President, Class of 2020

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Brisson Voted VCOM-Auburn Student DO of the Year M embers of the VCOM- Auburn Student DO of the

second-year medical students because as current medical students and future physicians, they will be providing care and representing osteopathic medicine in Alabama and throughout the United States. “I’ve been involved in EMS for more than 14 years and it has allowed me to develop Brisson’s eagerness to share his extensive knowledge and the strong leadership he displays on and off campus has endeared Brisson to the students and faculty at VCOM-Auburn. Jake T. Williamson, PhD, VCOM- Auburn Assistant Vice President for Student Services, noted that Brisson was a sure choice for everyone at the VCOM-Auburn campus. “It was no surprise Mike was selected by the committee as he is an exemplary student in every sense of the word. His commitment to excelling at everything he pursues does not make him unique; however, the degree to which he is successful as a medical student, EMT, husband and father— simultaneously—is truly unique and commands the respect of all he encounters,” said Williamson. Brisson was heavily involved in numerous activities at the VCOM-Auburn campus including serving as a Peer anatomy a passion for teaching and mentoring,” said Brisson.

Year Committee announced their selection of a student that best represented the principles of leadership, community service, dedication and professionalism. Second-year medical student Mike Brisson was an easy choice for both the student body and the Committee as he represented all of these traits with unparalleled excellence. Initial nominations for the Student DO of the Year were submitted by students from the classes of 2019 and 2020 at VCOM- Auburn. The Student DO of the Year Committee then reviewed and ranked applications from the nominated students. “I am humbled and honored to have been selected by both my peers and the administration,” said Brisson. “It has a special meaning, particularly because we are members of the inaugural class. My classmates and professors have assisted me since day one of medical school and I wouldn’t be where I am today without their unending assistance,” added Brisson. Through both his military experience and emergency medical services (EMS) experience, Brisson has a strong background of skills to draw from. Brisson noted that he wanted to empower first and

Mike Brisson Class of 2019

lab instructor for surgical procedural skills. He was a

member of both SAMOPS, the Student Association of Military Osteopathic and Surgeons and SOMA, the Student Osteopathic Medical Association. Brisson served as SGA Secretary/ Treasurer in 2015-16 and served as SGA Treasurer for 2016-17. Brisson also served as a Council of Osteopathic Student Government Presidents Translating Osteopathic Understanding into Community Health coordinator (COSGP TOUCH), and as an American Heart Association ACLS/BLS/ PALS instructor. Brisson is a UH/HH-60 Blackhawk helicopter pilot in the Alabama Army National Guard where he serves as an aeromedical evacuation officer at the rank of captain. He has served overseas in Japan and

“ I am humbled & honored to have been selected

by both my peers and the administration. ”

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scholarships & leadership

Korea, including a combat deployment to Afghanistan. Brisson is also no stranger to the academic world as he already possesses a PhD in Epidemiology from Walden University, and an MPH from the American Military University. “Mike is a role model for the entire school,” said Christopher B. Walker, VCOM-Auburn SGA

vice president and a fellow class of 2019 member. “I believe he is fully deserving of this award because he embodies what it truly means to be an osteopathic medical student. His commitment to serving his fellow students and the surrounding community is inspiring. It has been an honor working with him,” said Walker, who also served on the Student DO of the Year Committee.

Brisson’s nomination proceeded to the national level where a national Student DO of the Year was chosen from among the nominees from osteopathic medical colleges across the country. The National Student DO of the Year was chosen at the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM) annual conference in April of 2017.

More about the Honor

the Council of Osteopathic Student Government Presidents (COSGP) and the previous Student DO of the Year winner. The Student DO of the Year must be a full-time student at a college/school of osteopathic medicine and cannot be a previous school nominee for Student DO of the Year.

of Osteopathic Student Government Presidents National Selection Committee. The National Committee consists of representatives from the Student Osteopathic Medical Association (SOMA), the Society of Osteopathic Medical Educators (SOME), the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM), the Council of Interns and Residents (CIR),

The Student DO of the Year (SDOY) award honors and recognizes an osteopathic medical student who is committed to the principles of leadership, community service, dedication and professionalism. Each school hosts their own individual selection process to choose a student who has made outstanding contributions to the osteopathic profession. Each school then sends its nomination to the Council

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Class Motto We humbly come together to plant the seeds of wellness, scholarship and community service. Through our diverse backgrounds, we strive to leave a legacy and spread our roots throughout the community. We believe in facilitating healing of the mind, body and spirit via the human touch, from Auburn to the rest of the world.

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class of 2019

Class of 2019

Class Officers First Year (2015 - 2016) President: Chad Lyman Vice President: William Hamrick Class Officers Second Year (2016 - 2017) President: Chad Lyman Vice President: Caitlin Roach Class Size 157 Gender 44% of the class is female, 56% is male Age Average age upon matriculation is 25 Minority 18% are an underrepresented minority 33% are from multicultural backgrounds Residence 33% are from Alabama 44% are from Appalachia 79% are from the Appalachian and Southeastern Region

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Class of 2019

Tamer Abuaita Flushing, MI BS – Biology University of Michigan

Ezra Adams Sevierville, TN BA – Music Carson-Newman University MA – Music Western Carolina

Nathan Albrect Edwardsville, IL BS – Applied Health Science Indiana University - Bloomington

Chelsea Allen Adel, GA BS – Biology Columbus State University

Sara Alleyasin Irvine, CA BA – Political Science University of California - Irvine

MS – Public Health University of Illinois

Chelsea Angelocci Palm Harbor, FL BS – Exercise Science Florida State University

Muhammad Ata Huntsville, AL BS – Neuroscience University of Alabama -

Gayle Avery Auburn, AL BS – Biology University of Alabama

Kurt Barger Panama City, FL BS – Biology University of Florida

Joseph Bauer Raleigh, NC BS – Exercise Science Elon University MS – Physiology North Carolina State University

Birmingham MS – Human

Environmental Science University of Alabama

Kimberly Berman Staten Island, NY BS – Integrative Neuroscience Binghamton University

Michael Bischof Rome, GA BS – Biology Georgia Southern University

Thomas Block West Monroe, LA BS – Biology University of Louisiana Monroe MS – Biomedical Science Mississippi College

James Boone Alexander City, AL BS – Business Management University of Alabama

Michael Brisson Enterprise, AL BS – Meteorology Embry Riddle Aeronautical University PhD – Public Health/ Epidemiology Walden University

James Broome Bassfield, MS BS – Biology University of Southern Mississippi PharmD – Pharmacy University of Mississippi

Daniel Brownfield Auburn, AL BS – Exercise Science Auburn University

Andrew Buckelew Pinson, AL BS – Biology University of Alabama - Birmingham

Bishop Carmichael Lanett, AL BS – Nutrition Science Auburn University

Daniel Casas Boynton Beach, FL BS – Biology Florida Atlantic University

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class of 2019

Whitney Chandler Newton, TX BS – Biochemistry West Texas A&M University

George Christakis Jupiter, FL BA – English Florida Atlantic University

Brock Clark Ocala, FL

James Coley Montgomery, AL BS – Psychology University of South Alabama

Tiffany Chapman Glencoe, AL BS – Human Environmental Sciences / Biology University of Alabama - Birmingham

BS – Health Science Pre-Med University of Central Florida

Ann Collins Birmingham, AL

Michael Coody Weslaco, TX BS – Biology/ Computer Science University of Texas Pan American

Paulette Coombs Palm Beach Gardens, FL BS – Biology Florida Atlantic University

Tiffiny Cooper Hilo, HI BS – Biology University of Hawaii - Manoa MS – Physiology

Cayla DeLuca Ormond Beach, FL

BS – Exercise Science University of Alabama MS – Human Performance University of Alabama

BS – Exercise Science Florida State University

Kayla DeSuza Daytona Beach, FL

Jacob Dickinson McAllen, TX BS – Nutritional Sciences Texas A&M

James Diskin Opelika, AL BS – Biomedical Sciences Auburn University

Lisette Dominguez Orlando, FL BS – Microbiology University of Central Florida

Amber Derouen Florence, AL BS – Cellular/ Molecular Biology Auburn University

BS – Biology/ Neuroscience Florida Atlantic University

Alexander Dorin San Diego, CA BA – Biological Sciences University of Southern California

Crystal Downer Homestead, FL BS – Biology St. Thomas University

Courtney Duncan Anniston, AL BS – Biology University of Alabama – Birmingham MBA – Jacksonville State University

Queenie Duong Arlington, TX BS – Chemistry Texas A&M

Dylan Elder McDonough, GA BS – Biology Georgia College and State University

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Class of 2019 (continued)

Phillip Finley Springfield, MO BA – Psych/Neuroscience Baylor University PhD – Applied Sciences Saint Louis University

Casten Fischer Manti, UT BS – Biology Southern Utah University

Luke Foshee Auburn, AL BS – Biology Union University MS – Pathobiology Auburn University

Zachariah Francois St. Bernard, LA BS – Interdisciplinary Studies University of New Orleans

David Emerine Homewood, AL BS – Biology University of Alabama - Birmingham MS – Biology University of Alabama - Birmingham

Reema George Houston, TX BS – Biology Houston Baptist University

Adrienne Gonzalez San Antonio, TX BS – Human Biology University of Texas - Austin

Erin Gordon Clayton, NC BS – Biology University of North Carolina - Wilmington

William Hamrick Eufaula, AL BS – Biology University of Montevallo

Jason Fultz Raymore, MO BS – Molecular and Cellular Biology Harding University

Thomas Harrison Tuscaloosa, AL BS – Biology University of Alabama

Amber Hill Orlando, FL BS – Health Sciences University of Central Florida

Jeremy Hogstrom Hixson, TN BS – Biology University of Tennessee - Chattanooga

Evan Harrison Tuscaloosa, AL BS – Biology University of Alabama

Jermaine Hogstrom Hixson, TN BS – Biology University of Tennessee - Chattanooga

Anthony Horton Red Bay, AL BS – Physical Education University of North Alabama

Charles Johnson Friendswood, TX BS – Biology University of Arkansas - Fayette

Niambi Horton Hueytown, AL

Tamima Hossain Newport News, VA

Cody Jinnette Tallassee, AL BA – Chemistry Auburn University

BS/BA – Biochemistry/ Spanish Queens University of Charlotte PharmD – Pharmacy Auburn University

BS – Exercise Virginia Tech

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class of 2019

Jasmine Johnson Elkridge, MD BS – Biology

Rishi Kalra Hauppauge, NY BS – Nutritional Sciences Cornell University

Richa Kapil Hoover, AL BS – Biology

Emily Kassar Plantation, FL

Courtney Johnson Woodstock, GA BS – Microbial Biology Auburn University

BS – Biomedical Sciences University of Central Florida

Spelman College MEd – Kinesiology Auburn University

University of North Texas PhD – Molecular Biology University of North Texas

Sofia Klar Ramona, CA BS – Biology Uppsala University

Jillian Keighron Mobile, AL BS – Biomedical Sciences Auburn University

Kelsey Kenaan Oakland, MI BS – Human Biology / Spanish Michigan State University

Daniel Kibler Franklin, TN

Kevin Kinyanjui San Diego, CA BS – Human Biology University of California - San Diego

BS – Biochemistry / Molecular Biology University of Tennessee

Daniel Krautter Deer Lodge, MT BS – Biology Liberty University

Jeremy Ledford Tyrone, GA BS – Biology Point University

Peter Krothapalli Montgomery, AL BS – Theatre University of Alabama - Birmingham

Anthony Lam Melbourne, FL BS – Microbiology University of Central Florida

Peter Lee Apopka, FL BS – Biology University of Florida

Benjamin Lyman Mobile, AL BS – Exercise Science University of Southern Mississippi

John Magnuson Murfreesboro, TN BS – Health Sciences/ Microbiology

Taylor Mallicoat Tazewell, TN BS – Biology / Pre Med Lincoln Memorial University

Kaitlyn Lemes Weston, FL BS – Psychology University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill

Clayton Lester Miami, FL BS – Biomedical Science Auburn University Post Bac – Pre Med VCOM-Virginia

East Tennessee State University

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Class of 2019 (continued)

Jesse Martin Miami, FL BS – Biology Florida International University

Matrick McKeny Palm Bay, FL BS – Microbiology University of South Florida MS – Medical Sciences University of South Florida

Ben Meis Memphis, TN BS – Biology Freed-Hardeman University

Christopher Michaelson Auburn, AL BS – Business Administration Florida State University BS – Biology California State Polytechnic University - Pomona

Ryan Milligan Kaysville, UT BS – Business Weber State and University of Utah

Stephanie Mitchell Guntersville, AL BS – Biomedical Sciences/ Microbiology Auburn University

Kiley Morgan Dawsonville, GA BS – Chemistry North Georgia College and State University

Timothy Morgan Starkville, MS

Benjamin Mills Dexter, MO BS – Biology Southeast Missouri State University

Alexander Mills Gadsden, AL BS – Biochemistry University of Alabama - Birmingham

BS – Exercise Physiology Mississippi State University

Devin Murphy Tampa, FL BS – Psychology University of South Florida MSW – Social Work University of Southern California

Amritpal Mundi Exeter, CA BS – Human Biology University of California Merced

John Murphy Florence, AL

Steven Nabers Red Bay, AL BS – Biology University of Alabama

Sara Nelson Dothan, AL BS – Biomedical Science Troy University

BS – Kinesiology Auburn University DPT – Physical Therapy Emory University

Taylor North Taylorsville, UT BS – Exercise Physiology University of Utah MS – Anatomical Sciences Lincoln Memorial University

Michael Oberle Vermillion, SD BS – Biology

Brian Openlander St. Louis, MO BS – Nursing University of Missouri

Anthony Nguyen San Diego, CA BS – Biochemistry/ Cell Biology University of California - San Diego

David Nguyen Orlando, FL BS – Molecular Biology/ Microbiology University of Central Florida

Black Hills State University MS – Integrated Genomics Black Hills State University

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class of 2019

Rebecca Palmer Jacksonville, FL BS – Classical Studies Wayne State University

Benjamin Pare Methuen, MA BS – Biology University of Massachusetts

Mira Patel Mobile, AL

Tiffany Perez Houston, TX BS – Biochemistry Baylor University

Thomas Peterson South Jordan, UT BA – Spanish Brigham Young University

BS – Molecular Biology University of Alabama - Birmingham

Kristen Punshon Tallahassee, FL BS – Exercise Science Florida State University

Samuel Purkey Knoxville, TN BS – Kinesiology University of Tennessee

Angelique Ramirez Irving, TX BS – Biology Texas A&M University MS – Medical Sciences University of North Texas

Nicole Redenius Auburn, AL BS – Zoology Auburn University MEd – Teaching and Learning University of Oregon

Shenell Reynolds Frisco, TX BS – Biology Alabama State University

Caitlin Roach Newtown, PA BS – Biological Sciences University of Alabama

Bianca Rubin Davie, FL BS – Biology Nova Southeastern

William Ruffin Waverly, AL BS – Biology Auburn University Montgomery MEd – Biomechanics Auburn University

Angelin Shajan Columbus, GA BS – Biology Columbus State

Abby Sheffield Dallas, TX BS – Biomedical Sciences Auburn University

Katrina Slater Fort Walton Beach, FL BS – Biology University of West Florida

Joshua Soliman Pembroke Pines, FL BS – Biology Nova Southeastern University

Dilsa Souffrant Orlando, FL

Matthew Short Columbia, SC BS – Biology The Citadel

Jerry Skuthan Longwood, FL BS – Molecular Biology/ Microbiology University of Central Florida

BS – Biomedical Sciences University of Central Florida

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Class of 2019 (continued)

Clayton Stone Signal Mountain, TN BS – Health Sciences/ Microbiology

Numair Tahir Pike Road, AL BA/BS – Chemistry/ Microbiology Auburn University

Faye Tata Novi, MI BS – Human Biology Michigan State University

Rachel Spurrier Trussville, AL BS – Biomedical Sciences Auburn University

Valerie Staples Opelika, AL BS – Biology Columbus State University

East Tennessee State University

Nicole Tobin Winter Park, FL BS – Biology University of Maryland

Carolyn Tran Plano, TX BA – Biology University of Texas at Dallas

Noelle Tran Houston, TX BS – Psychology University of Texas at Austin

J. Tyler Tucker Elkmont, AL BS – Wildlife Sciences Auburn University DPT – Physical Therapy University of Tennessee - Chattanooga

Taylor Thrash Fyffe, AL BE – Chemical Engineering Auburn University

Amanda Turner Tuscaloosa, AL BS – Human Environmental Studies University of Alabama

Carly Ulrich El Paso, TX

Paul Ulrich Sylva, NC BS – Biology Berry College

Ashley Uvanni Mechanicsville, VA BS – Psychology Virginia Polytech

Lisa Vaccaro Milwaukee, WI

BS – Health Science Texas A&M University

BS – Biomedical Sciences University of South Florida

Anibal Velez St. Cloud, FL BS – Biology Florida Gulf Coast University

Taylor Wachs Montgomery, AL BS – Biomedical Sciences Auburn University

Christopher Walker Tampa, FL BS – Microbiology University of South Florida MS – Medical Science University of South Florida

Derek VanderVelde St. Petersburg, FL BS – Biomedical Sciences University of South Florida

Chelsea Wallace Rogersville, MO BS – Biology

Central Methodist University MS – Biomechanical Sciences Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences

34

class of 2019

Mallory Waller Dothan, AL BS – Biology Shorter University

Rachel Watson Edmond, OK BS – Biology East Central University

Benjamin Weimer New Alexandria, PA BS – Biology Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Grant Weingarten Birmingham, AL BS – Cellular, Microbial,

Tyler Wester Jacksonville, FL

BS – Animal Science Florida A&M University

Molecular Biology Auburn University MS – Global Medicine University of Southern California

Scott Wilder Sacramento, CA

Andrew Wilkins Smiths Station, AL BS – Biomedical Sciences Auburn University

Ciara Willis Okeana, OH BA/BS – Psychology/ Zoology Miami University Oxford

Chet Wilson Magnolia, MS BS – Biological Sciences Mississippi State University MS – Biology

Maxie Wilson Hamilton, MS BS – Biochemistry Mississippi State University MS – Biology

BS – Neurobiology / Physiology / Behavior University of California Davis

(Medical Sciences) Mississippi College

(Medical Sciences) Mississippi College

Zachary Wise Elkmont, AL

Nicole Wyatt Ann Arbor, MI BS – Biomedical Sciences Auburn University

Peter Zajac Mercer Island, WA BA – Biochemistry University of Washington

BS – Biological Sciences University of Alabama - Huntsville

35

Class of 2019

36

class of 2019

37

Class Motto We are honored to join those who are called upon when humanity is at its most vulnerable. We strive to deny complacency, cultivate humility and embrace collaboration. We will leave with servant hearts, using the power of healing that the human touch holds.

38

class of 2020

Class of 2020

Class Officers President: Jacob Taunton Vice President: Emily Grandprey Class Size 162 Gender 48% of the class is female, 52% is male Age Average age upon matriculation is 24 Minority 50% are an underrepresented minority 29% are from multicultural backgrounds Residence 29% are from Alabama 52% are from Appalachia 74% are from the Appalachian and Southeastern Region

39

Class of 2020

Allison Akridge Deer Park, AL BS – Biology University of West Alabama

Melina Alexander Mt. Morris, MI BS – Molecular Biology Defiance College

Ashley Andrews Cullman, AL BS – Biomedical Science Auburn University

Jebha Babu Missouri City, TX

Anahita Bahrami Lexington, KY BS – Human Nutrition University of Kentucky

BA – Liberal Arts - Scientific Inquiry Northwestern State University

Ryan Beard Blacksburg, VA BS – Exercise Science Colorado State University

Alexander Besser Solana Beach, CA BS – Biological Sciences University of California - Santa Barbara MS – Health Sciences New York University

Johnrick Bishop Jamestown, TN BS – Biology Tennessee Technological University

Chris Blaine Mobile, AL BS – Biomedical Science University of South Alabama

Dorian Bonam Clayton, AL BASC – Biology Alabama A&M University MS – Biology Hampton University

Brandon Bowers Tallahassee, FL BS – Biological Sciences Florida State University

Kayla Brazelton Huntsville, AL BS – Psychology University of Alabama

Nathaniel Burnham Cullman, AL BS – Chemistry Jacksonville State University

Amber Bux Lafayette, LA BS – Biology University of Louisiana - Lafayette

Jannet Bux Lafayette, LA BS – Biology University of Louisiana - Lafayette

Corban Caldwell Blue Springs, MO BS – Biology Missouri Southern State University MS – Biomedical Science Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences

Benton Cauthen Decatur, AL BS – Biomedical Science Auburn University

Alisa Chauhan Owens Cross Roads, AL BS – Biomedical Science Auburn University

Chelsea Alexander Cockrell Dallas, GA BASC – Biology Eastern Kentucky University

Haglaeeh Contreras Elrod, MO BS – Biology University of Alabama MPH University of Alabama - Birmingham

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class of 2020

John Cook Knoxville, TN

Coleman Cowart Auburn, AL BS – Biomedical Science Auburn University

Shirley Cotty Delgado Grand Prairie, TX BS – Biology Baylor University

Ridgeland Dabbs Amory, MS BS – Microbiology Mississippi State University

Jerica Davis Chattanooga, TN BS – Biology University of Tennessee - Chattanooga

BS – Biological Sciences University of Tennessee

Olivia Demarta Auburn, AL BS – Nutrition Auburn University

Timothy Demshar Blacksburg, VA BS – Athletic Training Roanoke College

Louis Dishman Hoover, AL BS – Exercise Science Auburn University

Ashleigh Dupuy Petal, MS BS – Biology William Carey University

Matthew Ferguson Aiken, SC BA – Chemistry Auburn University

Thomas Fredericks Summerfield, FL BS – Biomedical Science University of Central Florida

Rima Ghamrawi Plano, TX

Kevin Giattina Mobile, AL BS – Business Administration University of Alabama MS – Biomedical Science Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science

Jordan Gillenwater Bloomfield, IN BA – Spanish Indiana State University

Craig Goldhagen Tampa, FL BS – Biology University of South Florida

BS – Business Administration University of Texas - Dallas

Rishikumar Gopinath Johns Creek, GA BS – Biology University of Georgia

Benjamin Goulding Knoxville, TN BS – Exercise Science Auburn University

Emily Grandprey Sioux Falls, SD BA – Biology Augustana College

Jerry Grant Salem, AL BS – Biomedical Science Auburn University

Rinko Grewal Valrico, FL

BS – Integrative Biology University of South Florida MS – Biomedical Science University of South Florida - Morsani College of Medicine

41

Class of 2020 (continued)

Kayla Hammelman Evansville, IN BA – Biology Franklin College

Katelyn Horton Hardeman Oxford, AL BS – Biology Jacksonville State University

Carol Harden Birmingham, AL BASC – Biology Alabama State University MS – Biology University of Alabama - Birmingham

Amanda Hargrove Murphy, TX BS – Biological Sciences Florida Atlantic University

Mark Hargrove Rockville, VA BS – Biology Christopher Newport University

Zachary Jarrett Auburn, AL BS – Biomedical Science Auburn University

Madeline Hearn Prattville, AL BS – Biomedical Science Auburn University

Lauren Howard Missouri City, TX BS – Biology Baylor University

Candice Ibarra Merrick, NY BA – Communications Loyola University Maryland

Nawzad Jacksi Ypsilanti, MI BS – Biology Eastern Michigan University

Hannah Jaudon Moody, AL BS – Psychology Birmingham-Southern College MPH University of Alabama - Birmingham

Kyle Johnson Leesburg, GA

Jasmine Jovzpary Ashville, AL BS – Pre Med Jacksonville State University

John Kapaniris Trinity, FL

Berina Karic Waukesha, WI BS – Biology University of Wisconsin - Madison

BS – Biomedical Sciences Kennesaw State University

BS – Biomedical Science University of South Florida

Karin Kuusisto Arlington, TX BS – Biological Sciences Southern Methodist University

Raghavendra Kasa Birmingham, AL BS – Public Health University of Alabama - Birmingham

Gulreen Kassoo Winter Garden, FL BS – Biomedical Science University of Central Florida

Ankit Kaushik Montgomery, AL BS – Engineering University of Alabama - Birmingham

Basima Khan Kansas City, MO BA – Biological Sciences University of Missouri

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class of 2020

Hendrix Lafontant Douglasville, GA BS – Biology University of Florida

Victoria Padgett Lafontant Land O’ Lakes, FL BS – Biology University of Florida

Peyton Lampley Old Hickory, TN BS – Biomedical Science Auburn University

Taylor Lamb Layfeyette, AL BS – Biology / Chemistry Jacksonville State University

Michael Landers Birmingham, AL BS – Biology University of Alabama

Ethan Lindenbaum New Philadelphia, OH BS – Zoology Miami University MS – Anatomy Case Western Reserve University

Bryan Lee Boca Raton, FL BS – Building Construction University of Florida

Marissa Lee Monroe, LA BS – Biology Louisiana Tech University

Sergeine Lezeau Port Saint Lucie, FL BS – Anthropology University of Florida

Tiffany Lin Brooklyn, NY BS – Biology Pace University - Pleasantville / Briarcliff

Chad Marshall Lewisville, TX BS – Journalism Oklahoma State University - Stillwater MS – Biomedical Science University of North Texas Health Center - Fort Worth

Lauren Lowrey Gadsden, AL BS – Biology Jacksonville State University

Brendan Lutz Dickson, TN BS – Kinesiology University of Massachusetts - Amherst

Rachel Lyman San Antonio, TX BS – Kinesiology University of Texas - San Antonio

Katherine Starrett Magnuson Auburn, AL BS – Health Science

East Tennessee State University

Daniel Meis Pooler, GA BS – Biology Savannah State University

Emma McDowell Russellville, AL BS – Psychology University of Alabama

Christine McBride Birmingham, AL BS – Molecular Biology University of Alabama - Birmingham

Nicholas McDonald Fort Smith, AR BS – Biology University of Arkansas - Fort Smith

Sydney Matthews Emelle, AL BS – Biology University of West Alabama

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