VCOM - Auburn 2018 Yearbook

FOCUSED ON A MISSION TO SERVE

2018 Auburn Yearbook

OUR MISSION 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.

LEGEND

Appalachian Region

Target States

Our Campuses

Future Campus in Development

International Medical Outreach Sites

Messages from the President and Dean 4

AUBURN YEARBOOK TABLE OF CONTENTS

Highlights 6

Current Students 14

Student Organizations 68

International and Local Outreach 106

Faculty and Staff 130

Dixie Tooke-Rawlins, DO, FACOFP

President and Provost

T he Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) has three campuses with one common Mission: to graduate community- focused, globally-minded osteopathic physicians to meet the needs of the rural and medically underserved populations. The Mission is the heart and soul of VCOM and is shared by our students and faculty. Within our Mission is a focus on the communities we serve. VCOM is committed to each individual community where we reside as well as to the region we serve. While VCOM is one of the largest medical schools in the country, each VCOM campus maintains the feel of a smaller private college for the student and the community. VCOM is producing the type of physician this country needs and is focused on making a difference in the communities and region we serve.

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Elizabeth A. Palmarozzi, DO, FACOFP

Dean for the Auburn Campus

T he VCOM-Auburn campus is the result of a vision shared by a group of people that sought to address the healthcare shortfall in Alabama, especially in rural and underserved areas. According to Alabama Rural Health Association statistics, 60 of Alabama’s 67 counties, including 51 of 55 of the state’s rural counties, are classified as having a shortage of primary care physicians. As each year has passed since the opening of the Auburn campus, we have moved closer to our goal of graduating future physicians to address health care disparities in Alabama and beyond. This year, a second VCOM- Auburn class will leave campus to join the inaugural class on clinical rotations. Additionally, we are especially excited to get to know the members of the class of 2022 as they report to campus this summer for classes. Through VCOM’s healthcare outreach opportunities, students develop a strong commitment to developing healthy communities while receiving practical, hands-on training. As educators, it is our goal to instill in every student Osteopathic principles, and to inspire in them a strong sense of service to the underserved in Alabama and beyond.

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A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT AND PROVOST AND DEAN

Highlights

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Highlights 2017

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APRIL

JULY

1 In April, VCOM-Auburn celebrated Accepted Students Day with the Class of 2021 . Students and their families were able to come to campus to engage in fellowship with VCOM-Auburn administrators, faculty and staff.

2 In July, VCOM-Auburn welcomed the Class of 2021 to campus! VCOM-Auburn’s newest class of medical students enjoyed a picnic on July 16 on campus before starting

3 From July 1-8, VCOM-Auburn and VCOM-Carolinas embarked on a week-long medical outreach trip to Santa Rosa, Honduras . Second-year medical students, faculty, staff, preceptors and volunteers served more than 300 patients at four different rural sites.

4 From July 8- 15, all VCOM campuses teamed up and flew to the Dominican Republic on a medical outreach trip . Clinical activities included day trips to communities throughout the La Altagracia province, which is located in the eastern part of the country.

their first day of New Student Orientation the next morning.

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AUGUST

OCTOBER

5 During his commissioning ceremony , second-year student Nicholas Ryan took an oath, signed the papers and will serve at least four years with the U.S. Navy after his residency. Ryan was administered his oath by retired U.S. Navy Rear Adm. John W. “Bill” Goodwin, who is director for nuclear power generation systems at Auburn University’s Samuel Ginn College of Engineering. Go Navy!

6 VCOM-Auburn was near the path of totality for the Solar Eclipse on August 21. Students, faculty and staff congregated on the patio and lawn to wonder at this rare astronomical phenomenon (with safety glasses, of course).

7 It was easy to see and hear the excitement as friends and family watched their loved ones walk across the stage to receive their white coats on Sunday, October 15. We are proud of these students, and we know that they will represent VCOM well as they continue their journey toward becoming osteopathic physicians. Congratulations class of 2021!

8 VCOM-Auburn faculty, staff and students were able to dress up for Halloween on October 31 with a $2 donation to the Polycystic Kidney Disease Foundation. Additionally, members of Hispanic Community Medical Outreach (HCMO) held a bake sale where they offered delicious Mexican sweet breads and hot chocolate in honor of Dia de los Muertos . Proceeds went toward gifts for children on international medical outreach trips.

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HIGHLIGHTS

Highlights 2017-2018

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NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

9 Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall, Sen. Tom Whatley, Dist. 27, Rep. Joe Lovvorn, Dist. 79, Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones, Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller, Auburn Police Chief Paul Register and other representatives from Auburn/Opelika were part of a roundtable discussion about the opioid crisis in Alabama. Representing VCOM-Auburn were Dean Elizabeth Palmarozzi, DO, FACOFP, Courtney Gamston, ScM, PharmD, BCPS and Paul Brisson, MD, MS, FACS, FAAP, FAPWCA.

10 VCOM-Auburn saw success again at MedWar Tennessee , an outdoor adventure race that integrates emergency medical simulations. VCOM-Auburn teams placed second and third out of 34 teams. Competitors ran, hiked, biked and orienteered over 11 miles and 3,000 feet of elevation change through scenic Cumberland Gap National Historical Park.

11 Members of the Student Osteopathic Surgical Association (SOSA) conducted a Surgical Conference for VCOM- Auburn students on December 2-3. The event was filled to capacity with students that were eager to hear from speakers and guest panels, see demonstrations and get hands-on experiences in workshops.

12 In December, the Hispanic Community Medical Outreach (HCMO) student organization, hosted Fiesta Latina . This included a variety of Hispanic and South American foods and a panel of speakers that discussed Hispanic and South American diets.

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JANUARY

FEBRUARY

13 VCOM-Auburn was the site for yet another special military commissioning ceremony on December 15. Class of 2020 member Kendall Talley was administered the oath by his father, a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel with more than 26 years of service. Talley noted that he was especially grateful that friends, family and instructors were in attendance at this important commissioning event. Go Army!

14 For this New Year’s, VCOM- Auburn embarked on its first medical outreach trip to El Salvador. Students had the opportunity to serve in villages and in a local medical clinic throughout San Salvador.

15 On January 19, students awoke to VCOM-Auburn covered in a blanket of snow. This was a special occurrence as snow days like this are a rarity in central Alabama. Melting snow and low temperatures created havoc over the next few days by leaving icy patches on area roads.

16 The CMDA and AMWA student organizations held a Human Trafficking Workshop at VCOM-Auburn on February 17. Speakers included Safe Harbor Youth Executive Director Lynn Caffery, herself a human trafficking survivor, Children’s Hospital Intervention and Prevention Services (CHIPS Center) Medical Director, Melissa Peters, MD and Auburn-Opelika area oral and maxillofacial surgeon, Kenneth Zouhary, DMD, MD.

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HIGHLIGHTS

Highlights 2018

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MARCH

APRIL

17 It was great to see new students, along with their family and friends at Accepted Students Day 2018 . The class of 2022 enjoyed taking tours, sharing a meal, and meeting faculty and staff. We look forward to getting to know the VCOM-Auburn class of 2022!

18 In March, VCOM-Auburn held its third annual Chili Cookoff . This event is a special tradition at VCOM-Auburn as it was the first campus event held after the opening of the Auburn campus branch of VCOM.

19 In March, VCOM-Auburn embarked on a week- long medical outreach trip to Tegucigalpa, Honduras . Second year medical students, faculty, staff, preceptors and volunteers served more than 480 patients in four different rural sites.

20 SOMA (the Student Osteopathic Medical Association) hosted the Med Gala at the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts at Auburn University. Faculty, staff and students ate, mingled and danced at this formal event.

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MAY

JUNE

21 Usually a peaceful area, the courtyard at the new Auburn University School of Nursing building was a frantic scene on Friday, April 27 as wave after wave of simulated disaster victims scrambled for assistance during this year’s Disaster Day Drill . VCOM-Auburn osteopathic medical students and AU School of Nursing students worked quickly to assess injuries, sort victims and get them transported to simulated hospital emergency rooms on the second floor.

22 Nineteen teams of students converged on Chewacla State Park in Auburn for a wilderness medicine adventure race . In all, 57 competitors ran and hiked 10 miles of trail, biked three miles and kayaked ½ mile. The race included five simulated medical scenarios where students were required to treat injured patients with the supplies that they carried in their packs. Taking first place in the race was a group of third-year students

23 On Wednesday, May 16, VCOM-Auburn held its first Via Research Recognition Day . This event serves as a forum for health professionals and scientists in academic institutions, teaching hospitals and practice sites to present and benefit from new research innovations and programs intended to improve the health of all people.

24 On Friday, June 1, faculty, staff, administrators and students from the class of 2020 gathered at the Irish Bred Pub in Opelika, Alabama for the second annual “ Boot the Second Years Party. ” This event serves as a send- off for second-year students that are leaving campus to go on clinical rotations. Playing at the party was the band “Route 66,” which features none other than VCOM-Auburn OB/GYN Co-Chair R. Kraig Smith, MD.

including James Boone, William Hamrick and Gunnar Magnuson.

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HIGHLIGHTS

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Current Students

AUBURN Scholarships M any 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

James Coley New Student Auburn Campus Scholarship 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

Jillian Keighron New Student Auburn Campus Scholarship 2015-2016 Clayton Lester Army Health Professions Scholarship Program 2015-2016 Alexander Mills Army Health Professions Scholarship Program 2015-2016 Thomas Peterson CULearn Scholarship 2017-2018 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

Gayle Avery New Student Auburn Campus Scholarship 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

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 Whitney Chandler Navy Wives Scholarship 2017-2018

Courtney Johnson Air Force Health Professions Scholarship Program 2015-2016

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2021 Nigel Jagoo Sherry Arnstein Scholarship 2017-2018 Janina Jose Health Focus of Southwest Virginia Scholarship 2017-2018 Haldon Marmolejos Air Force Health Professions Scholarship Program 2017-2021 Kimberly Noss Injured Marine Scholarship 2017-2018 Pat Tillman Scholarship 2017-2018 Luke Shope Navy Health Professions Scholarship Program 2017-2021 Joel Sullivan Osage County Scholarship 2017-2018 Todd Ulmer National Football Scholarship 2017-2018 Vinayak Memula Americorps 2017-2018

Victoria LaFontant Navy Health Professions Scholarship Program 2016-2020 Laura Mims Kids Cancer Alliance 2017-2018

Nicole Wyatt New Student Auburn Campus Scholarship 2015-2016 2020 Dorian Bonam National Health Service Corps Scholarship Program 2016-2020 Corban Caldwell Welch Scholarship 2017-2018 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

Macy Phillips Memorial Hospital Scholarship 2016-2020

Nicholas Ryan Navy Health Professions Scholarship Program 2017-2020 Audie Schmid Air Force Health Professions Scholarship Program 2016-2020 Vernon Sharp Army Health Professions Scholarship Program 2016-2020

Caitlin Stoll Americorps 2017-2018

Hannah Jaudon Zeta Tau Scholarship 2017-2018 Hendrix LaFontant Navy Health Professions Scholarship Program 2016-2020

Kenneth Stroer Army Health Professions Scholarship Program 2016-2020

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SCHOLARSHIP AND LEADERSHIP

Building Traditions in Military Medicine Serving Our Military and the Community

V COM-Auburn has grown in the last three years in tremendous ways, and SAMOPS has grown as well through its membership and community service. Over the past year, we have continued to expand our presence in the community, while forging stronger relationships within our network of local school Council of Presidents and faculty. We are in communication with the U.S. Air Force Special Operations Surgical Team to give talks to the student and faculty about the ability to set up an entire remote surgical facility. Our local chapter has always been committed to helping our fellow VCOM-Auburn organizations with events that teach and further the mission of this College. It has been a great honor and responsibility for SAMOPS to raise and lower the flag to and from half-mast during times of tribute and mourning to keep with military traditions. SAMOPS has fostered strong relationships with the faculty and staff at VCOM-Auburn, which has allowed the organization to put on events for our fellow student body, military members and families. Club members recently conducted the annual Memorial Day bike ride where $700 was raised for the Wounded Warrior Program. This program aids injured armed forces service members that have suffered traumatic events during war. This year, SAMOPS members will also conduct another Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) event with members of the American College of Osteopathic Neurologists and Psychiatrists (ACONP). For this event, we plan to involve reaching out to the Auburn University (AU) School of Nursing, the Auburn Student Veterans Association and the AU psychology student population. By holding this event, we hope to teach the local community and fellow future medical team members about PTSD, its effects on military members and their families. We will also be working closely with the VCOM-Auburn Student Osteopathic Surgical Association (SOSA) to organize a hemorrhage control class during VCOM-Auburn’s Surgical Conference in December 2018. As SAMOPS members, we take pride in our continued focus, perseverance and dedication to this school and this country. Our members entered the Armed Forces to protect and serve this country and its ties with our partners in other nations across the world. The future physicians from our local chapter of SAMOPS are among the finest this school has to offer. Their continued selflessness allows them to not only serve this great nation, but also assists them in carrying on the Osteopathic principles instilled by our institution. I am personally honored to have served in the Navy as a Corpsman, and I am especially honored to belong to the VCOM-Auburn SAMOPS family. As our students become Osteopathic physicians and begin their military careers, I know they will provide nothing short of unparalleled excellence!

David W. McGregor, Jr. U.S. Navy Veteran SAMOPS President Class of 2021

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Meet the VCOM Military Leaders Health Professions Scholarship Program Recipients

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

Class of 2021 Haldon Marmolejos

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

Class of 2021 Luke Shope

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SCHOLARSHIP AND LEADERSHIP

Class of 2019 Student Clinician Awards E a ch year, hospitals, in partnership with VCOM, award third-year students who have excelled in their clinical training and have gone above and beyond to promote excellence in the osteopathic profession. These students are honored in May

each year during an awards ceremony and picnic where they have the chance to reconnect with classmates and faculty prior to beginning their fourth year of medical school.

Tiffany Chapman Distinguished Student Scholar Award, Geriatrics Gadsden Regional Medical Center

Kurt Barger Distinguished Student Scholar Award, Obstetrics and Gynecology Jack Hughston Memorial Hospital

Michael Brisson Distinguished Student Scholar Award, Geriatrics Student of the Year Award Medical Center Enterprise

James Broome Distinguished Student Scholar Award, Internal Medicine East Alabama Medical Center

Andrew Buckelew Distinguished Student Scholar Award, Pediatrics East Alabama Medical Center

Paulette Coombs Distinguished Student Scholar Award, Obstetrics and Gynecology Orange Park Medical Center

Zachariah Francois Distinguished Student Scholar Award, Psychiatry Ft. Walton Beach Medical Center

Adrienne Gonzalez Distinguished Student Scholar Award, Surgery Crestwood Medical Center

Erin Gordon Distinguished Student Scholar Award, Family Medicine Crestwood Medical Center

Reema George Student of the Year Award Columbus Regional Medical Center

Anthony Horton Student of the Year Award Helen Keller Hospital

Julian Keighron Distinguished Student Scholar Award, Geriatrics Gadsden Regional Medical Center

Sofia Klar Distinguished Student Scholar Award, Obstetrics and Gynecology East Alabama Medical Center

Jesse Martin Distinguished Student Scholar Award, Family Medicine LewisGale Hospital Montgomery

Patrick McKeny Student of the Year Award Orange Park Medical Center

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Benjamin Mills Student of the Year Award Crestwood Medical Center

Amritpal Mundi Distinguished Student Scholar Award, Internal Medicine Columbus Regional Medical Center

Michael Oberle Distinguished Student Scholar Award, Pediatrics East Alabama Medical Center

Taylor North Distinguished Student Scholar Award, Surgery East Alabama Medical Center

Christopher Michaelson Distinguished Student Scholar Award, Psychiatry East Alabama Medical Center

Caitlin Roach Student of the Year Award Russell Medical Center

Samuel Purkey Distinguished Student Scholar Award, Internal Medicine Student of the Year Award Grandview Medical Center

Shenell Reynolds Student of the Year Award East Alabama Medical Center

William Ruffin Student of the Year Award Ft. Walton Beach Medical Center

Clayton Stone Distinguished Student Scholar Award, Psychiatry Gadsden Regional Medical Center

Carly Ulrich Student of the Year Award Gadsden Regional Medical Center

Noelle Tran Distinguished Student Scholar Award, Pediatrics Jack Hughston Memorial Hospital

Benjamin Weimer Distinguished Student Scholar Award, Surgery Student of the Year Award Jack Hughston Memorial Hospital

Maxie Wilson Distinguished Student Scholar Award, Family Medicine Helen Keller Hospital

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SCHOLARSHIP AND LEADERSHIP

VCOM-Auburn Student DO of the Year

T his past year, members of the VCOM-Auburn Student DO of the Year Committee announced their selection of a student that best represented the principles of leadership, community service, dedication and professionalism. Amber Neal, a member of the class of 2020, was selected to represent VCOM-Auburn as student DO of the year. VCOM Auburn’s Student DO of the Year,” said Neal. “My medical education at VCOM- Auburn has exceeded all of my expectations,” she added. Neal said that she was especially grateful to the VCOM-Auburn faculty and staff for their support on her medical school journey. Neal also was thankful to her colleagues. “There are so many talented student doctors surrounding me,” said Neal. “I am honored and humbled to have been selected as

“Our VCOM family members continually love and support one another in a community that loves us back,” she added. Neal is from Bandera, Texas, which is on the northwest side of San Antonio. She graduated from Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas with a degree in biomedical sciences. Neal played softball for the Bearkats at the position of pitcher. “Working with the team is what I miss the most,” said Neal. “I loved being around a good, powerful, goal-oriented group of women,” Neal added. Neal said it was heartbreaking to hang up her athletic career, but she was proud that she experienced so much in college while still retaining a high GPA. In addition to her athletic career in college, Neal was active in SHAMOS, the Sam Houston Associated Medical Students pre- medical club. She was a member

Amber Neal Class of 2020

of the Tri-Beta national honor society, and conducted genetic research while at Sam Houston. Neal said that she always knew that she wanted to be a doctor. Her parents are pharmacists that operate an on-site pharmacy in a local doctors office. Neal interacted with the nurses and doctors in the office on a regular basis. However, she knew that she wanted to take more of a lead with patient care. Her father confirmed this with her by noting that as he looked back on his career, he likely would have enjoyed being doctor in order to interact more with patients. During the past school year, Neal has been actively involved in numerous student organizations at VCOM-Auburn. She was the president of the American Medical Women’s Association

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Regional, State and National Leadership Positions

Michael Brisson Class of 2019 Board Member at Large/ Military Liaison for the International Association of Flight and Critical Care Paramedics (IAFCCP) Item Writer for the International Board of Specialty Certification (IBSC) Vice Chair, Medical Student Section for the Medical Association of the State of Alabama (MASA) Aeromedical Evacuation Officer for the Alabama Army National Guard (ALARNG)

Carol Harden Class of 2020 Vice Chair for Osteopathic Schools Committee; Journal of the Student National Medical Association Peer Reviewer for the Student National Medical Association

Joselyn Miller Class of 2021

Sergeine Lezeau Class of 2020 Publications Committee Co-Chair; Board of Directors Member; Journal of the Student National Medical Association Editor-in-Chief for the Student National Medical Association

Joseph Matthew Bauer Class of 2019

Region 4 Community Service Liaison (AL, GA, FL, NC, SC, Caribbean, and Puerto Rico) for the Student National Medical Association

Student Ambassador for the American Medical Association

physician and to live near my family,” said Neal. “Students like Amber present a unique dichotomy to faculty and staff; you want them to stay in school because their attitude, work ethic, leadership and professionalism are beneficial to students, not to mention appreciated by faculty and staff,” said VCOM-Auburn Assistant Vice President for Student Services, Jake Williamson, PhD. “However, at the same time you want them to graduate and start practicing because you know those same characteristics will be of even greater benefit to their patients,” Williamson added.

“ My medical education at VCOM-Auburn has

exceeded all of my expectations. ”

(AMWA), and was active in the Christian Medical and Dental Association (CMDA). Neal also served as a student ambassador where she assisted with the interview process, provided tours to potential students and traveled to undergraduate schools to give presentations to pre-medical groups. In addition to her studies and her student organization activities, Neal has been part of a research project initiated by Chair of Surgery Paul Brisson,

MD, and members of the class of 2019. She also was a part of the VCOM medical mission trip to the Dominican Republic this past summer. Neal said that she enjoyed the cultural aspects of the trip and was impressed by the respect that visitors to the mission trip clinics showed to the VCOM medical students. When asked what the future holds, Neal was excited about moving on to clinical rotations. “Eventually, I would like to go back to Texas to be an OB-GYN

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SCHOLARSHIP AND LEADERSHIP

2018 Poster Competition Winners

Research Poster Winners 1. First Place Tuyen Tran, VCOM-Auburn Oxidative Stress Modification by Acrolein, a Product of Secondhand Smoke, Disrupts Critical Functional Hallmarks of Apolipoprotein E 2. Second Place Matthew Pickich, VCOM-Auburn Therapeutic Benefit of a Turmeric Extract in a Nutritionally and Oxidatively Induced Rat Model of Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis

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3. Third Place Amber Neal, VCOM-Auburn

Non-conformity in the Anatomical Description of the Duodenum and the Impact on Clinical Communication

Category Winners 4. Biomedical Nicolas Ryan, VCOM-Auburn

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Lower Pressure External Pnuematic Compression (Epc), but not Moderate Pressure Epc, Mitigates Countermovement Jump Performance Following a Muscle Damage Protocol 5. Clinical Case Report Corey Stone, VCOM-Auburn Erethism Mercurialis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature 6. Educational Research Evan Thomas, VCOM-Auburn Interprofessional Education Attitudes Among Health Professional Students 7. Simulation Kyle Nielsen, VCOM-Auburn Protect Your Assets: Building a Better, Safer Wilderness Medicine Adventure Race 8. Clinical Research Daniel Krautter, VCOM-Auburn Establishing a Zika Education Program in the Urban Setting of Tegucigalpa, Honduras

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9. Interprofessional Han Fang, Auburn University

Differential Effects Of Niacin On High-Fat Diet-Induced Adipose Tissue Inflammation and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in C57bl/6j And B6129sf2/J Mice

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Via Research Recognition Day 2018

T he first annual Via Research Recognition Day at the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM)-Auburn was held on May 16, 2018. The event featured research presentations and posters from 62 VCOM students, faculty, and local researchers. The featured speaker at VCOM- Auburn Via Research Day was Center at Auburn University and Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Donnellan and Family Endowed Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Auburn University. He is also the co-director of the Alabama Advanced Imaging Consortium. Dr. Denney delivered this year’s keynote lecture, titled “Overview of Research at the Auburn University MRI Research Center.” Thomas S. Denney, Jr., PhD, Director of the MRI Research

In addition to “5-5-5” current research presentations by VCOM- Auburn faculty and a presentation from Keynote speaker, a poster session was held with awards given to top competitors.

Speakers Keynote Speaker: Overview of Research at the Auburn University MRI Research Center Thomas S. Denney, Jr., PhD Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Donnellan and Family Endowed Professor, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering Director, Auburn University MRI Research Center Co-Director, Alabama Advanced Imaging Consortium 5-5-5 Research Presenters: Joshua C. Hollingsworth, PharmD, PhD Assistant Professor for Pharmacology Annie Newton Kirby, PhD, RD Assistant Professor for Preventative Medicine and Public Health and Cell Biology and Physiology Mark Sanders, DO, JD, MPH, LLM, FACOFP Interim Associate Dean for Medical Education and Discipline Chair for Geriatrics R. Kraig Smith, MD Discipline Co-Chair for OB-GYN Jeremy J. White, DO, PhD Discipline Chair for Emergency Medicine Kaelin C. Young, PhD Assistant Professor for Cell Biology and Physiology Sara Ziska, DVM, PhD Assistant Professor for Microbiology and Immunology

Guest speaker Thomas S. Denney, Jr, PhD

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SCHOLARSHIP AND LEADERSHIP

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 Officers Third Year (2018 - 2019) 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

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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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

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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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 – Molecular Biology and 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

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

32

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

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

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

Class of 2019

36

37

CLASS OF 2019

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 Officers Second Year (2018-2019) 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

Class of 2020 (continued)

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

40

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

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CLASS OF 2020

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

42