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FLORIDA ATLANTIC
SCHMIDT COLLEGE OF MEDICINE
students + research + graduate medical education + clinical practice
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The Florida Atlantic University Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine celebrated the White Coat Ceremony for the Class of 2027 on Friday, August 4th. The Carole and Barry Kaye Auditorium was filled with enthusiasm as 80 aspiring doctors, representing the college's 13th class, embarked on their remarkable journey in medicine.
The newly initiated class took the monumental step towards a lifelong commitment to enhancing lives and actively contributing to the community. This was a pivotal moment, setting them on the path of compassion, excellence, and dedication to patient care.
Dr. Curtis L. Whitehair, Interim Dean and Designated Institutional Official (DIO), extended a warm welcome to the incoming medical students, expressing confidence in their potential and assuring them that the Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine community would stand behind them through both the challenges and triumphs they will face. Dean Whitehair emphasized: “Wear your white coats with pride and honor. They symbolize not only your career choice, but your pledge to compassionate care, your dedication to your future patients, and our shared mission of advancing healthcare.”
The Class of 2027, a melting pot of diverse talents and backgrounds, was meticulously selected from 4,620 applicants across various states and colleges. With an impressive average MCAT score of 516 and acceptance rate of only 1.7%, compared to the national average of 3.5%, the class highlights the college's commitment to excellence and its prestige in medical education.
Keynote speaker, Dr. Jaclyn Klimczak, a fellowship-trained facial plastic surgeon in Boca Raton and graduate of Schmidt College of Medicine’s Class of 2016, shared her insights: “Achieving success in medical school will force you to draw on different skillsets than you’ve experienced to date. While you’ve already demonstrated high intelligence and comprehension throughout your education, you’ll be challenged beyond your expectations. But the good news is that your resume shows success is easily within your capabilities.” Her presence served as a testament to the college's dedication to creating community-minded physicians and reinforced the pledge to provide quality patient care.
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+ Get to Know the Class of 2027
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Sofia Valencia Osorio
M.D. Candidate, Class of 2027
What motivated you to get into the medical field?
"I was raised by two healthcare professionals, a doctor, and a dentist. But my true passion for medicine ignited after moving to the United States. Here, I had to navigate a healthcare world unfamiliar to my parents because of the language barrier, translating medical terms I barely grasped in my native language. Those physicians who took the extra step to understand and make us feel at home stood out the most."
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Why is it important for you to give back to the community through medicine?
"There are various barriers, like the language one my family faced, that hinder people from accessing high-quality care. Beyond treating the disease, it's vital to recognize these challenges and ensure everyone receives the care they deserve. I've seen firsthand the difference a compassionate healthcare professional can make in an environment where many feel out of place or scared."
Is there anything specific you are most looking forward to at the Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine?
"I'm excited to learn how to be more than just a physician, but an ally and advocate for my patients. I want to align the care they receive with what's most important to them, ensuring they always feel comforted and secure."
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Eva Corrada
M.D. Candidate, Class of 2027
Why did you choose Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine?
“My path to medicine started with a Fischer Price Doctors kit. I chose FAU in Boca Raton because training to be a doctor in my home community is the most exciting opportunity. I chose this medical school because of the support and community outreach I knew the school would provide.”
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Driven by heightened donor generosity, commitment to educational advancement, and the community’s embrace, the 13th Annual White Coats-4-Care (WC4C) major scholarship fundraiser bestowed a warm welcome to 80 students enrolled in this year’s new class at Florida Atlantic University’s Schmidt College of Medicine (CoM).
Once again, civic and business leaders, healthcare professionals and community advocates joined in deep commitment to growing a strong, vital healthcare community. By helping to “dress and equip” each incoming class of medical students, the WC4C campaign helps the CoM attract, recruit, train and educate the next generation of humanistic clinicians and scientists – doctors who care and cure in this community.
“Each year this initiative gets more and more meaningful, as we have now clothed 868 students in their first white coats, and provided more than $2.4 million in support for students and programming since its inaugural year,” shared Co-chair Bonnie Kaye, who with her husband and Kaye Communications PR & Marketing partner Jon Kaye, has created and co-chaired WC4C for 13 consecutive years since its inception. Read Full Press Release
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John Wood's commitment to advancing medical education and research has left an indelible mark on our college. Through the FairfaxWood Scholarship Foundation, he and his wife Ann generously supported our students and research initiatives.
Their recent $11.5 million gift to fight amyloidosis sparked innovative research through the FairfaxWood Health and Innovation Technology Initiative. This program, located within our College of Medicine, is designed to change how we understand and treat this serious illness. Furthermore, the endowed FairfaxWood Chair of Clinical Neurosciences is a lasting testament to John's dedication to innovative research that affects patient care, while also accelerating the FAU Amyloidosis Project, making sure progress benefits many lives.
John and Ann Wood's impact on our students is immeasurable. Their historic $28 million scholarship gift, honoring their son Robert A. Wood, sets aspiring doctors free from the burden of medical school debt. This monumental scholarship donation, the largest in our university's history, ensures John's legacy lives on by providing generations with debt-free medical education.
The impact of John Wood's generosity is best encapsulated in the stories of the students who have received the Wood scholarship:
Jordan Jones, M.D. Candidate, Class of 2026: “Receiving the Wood Scholarship is an honor that I am extremely grateful for. It has reduced the financial burden of medical school while also opening my eyes to just how wonderful and impactful a gift like this can be. It has inspired to me continue this cycle of kindness, and it is my hope that one day I will be able to follow in the footsteps of the Wood family by supporting other medical students pursuing their dreams. Thank you for the generosity you have showed me and so many others!”
Sara Burgoa, M.D. Candidate, Class of 2026: "The Wood scholarship means more than money to me. It shows how the Woods trust in my power to make things better in my community. I want to follow John's example by helping my community through healthcare. The Woods' generosity opens doors for students like me who want to become caring doctors and who understand the privilege of pursuing a career in medicine. I want to be there to advocate for and lift up the people who often get left behind through gaps in healthcare access and promote wellness for all populations in my community.”
John Wood's impact transcends financial contributions. His values and dedication resonate with our college’s mission and inspire all who aspire to make a difference through education and support. We are reminded that a single individual's commitment can shape the future of healthcare and education in profound ways.
In this time of remembrance, our thoughts are with Ann and the Wood family. John's memory will forever be cherished within our College of Medicine, in the lives of our students, and throughout the entire FAU community.
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Dr. Michael R. Dobbs
Chair of the Clinical Neurosciences Department, Associate Dean of Clinical Affairs, Professor of Clinical Neurosciences, FairfaxWood Endowed Chair of Clinical Neurosciences, and Interim Associate Dean of Faculty Affairs
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Dr. Panagiota Kitsanta
Chair & Professor of Population Health and Social Medicine, Director of FAU Health Education Partnerships, and Director
of FAU Health Community Engagement.
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Dr. Ingrid Jones-Ince
Associate Professor of Medicine and Associate Program Director, Internal Medicine Residency
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Congratulations to Sarah Wiggill, M.D., Assistant Professor of Family Medicine, who has recently accomplished a significant academic milestone by completing her Master of Science in Nutrition. Dr. Wiggill continues to inspire us all with her continuous pursuit of knowledge and her dedication to providing the highest quality of care to our community. | | |
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Dr. Parvathi Perumareddi co-edited a newly published book titled "Gastroenterology, An Issue of Primary Care: Clinics in Office Practice." Through her collaborative efforts as a co-editor, Dr. Perumareddi has contributed to the creation of a valuable resource that promises to enhance the understanding and practice of gastroenterology within the context of primary care. | | |
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Dr. Tony Her, Associate Professor of Anatomy and Director of Anatomical Programs, is introducing Virtual Reality (VR) technology to his anatomy course for the very first time in our college. Through VR, students gain an intimate understanding of anatomical intricacies, fostering a profound connection to clinical knowledge. This deeper engagement equips them to be more informed and empowered individuals, ready to make meaningful contributions to healthcare discussions and decisions. | |
Project Grow: Nurturing Wellness Through Collaboration and Gardens | |
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Big news is sprouting – Project Grow is officially in full bloom! Our very own FAU College of Medicine students - Sara Burgoa, Shannon Gallup, Madison Goon, and Samantha Hicks - are taking the lead in cultivating well-being through a vibrant community garden. This exciting initiative kicked off on Saturday, August 19th. Get ready to be inspired by the heartwarming details of this amazing project.
Imagine a sunny Saturday morning, buzzing with excitement and teamwork. Enthusiastic volunteers rolled up their sleeves to bring a dream to life. Picture this: leveling the ground, constructing raised beds, filling them with nutrient-rich soil and compost, and adding a splash of color with freshly planted seedlings. But that's just the beginning! Our team also gave the greenhouse a makeover, reorganized the tool shed, adorned the space with a flower border, and even painted a snazzy new sign. The air was filled with camaraderie and a shared sense of purpose.
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But wait, there's more! A heartfelt round of applause is due to our incredible FAU COM students and faculty members who poured their dedication and creativity into this project. And that's not all – we teamed up with our friends from the undergraduate group Solidarity, creating a force of over 40 volunteers working side by side. Together, we made significant progress toward turning the vision of Project Grow into reality.
So, what's the big deal with Project Grow anyway? It's not just a garden – it's a movement towards healthier living, driven by a desire to uplift our community's well-being. Our mission is clear: we're preparing to host meal prep workshops and patient education sessions at Caridad Clinic. How? By using the goodness nurtured in our garden to support these valuable initiatives. From teaching about nutrition to offering hands-on experiences with farm-fresh goodness, we're sowing the seeds of well-being from the ground up.
A special shout-out is in order for the Arnold P. Gold Foundation. Their their support and funding are what's making Project Grow flourish. Without their backing, this vision wouldn't be taking root and thriving.
Before we wrap up, let's take a quick peek at the backstory. Project Grow is more than just a garden – it's a movement that’s creating real impact. Arnold P. Gold Foundation selected 13 exceptional medical students as 2023 Gold Student Summer Fellows. Among these shining stars are our very own Sara Burgoa, Shannon Gallup, Madison Goon, and Samantha Hicks – the driving forces behind Project Grow.
So, there you have it – the scoop on Project Grow's groundbreaking event. We're growing more than just plants; we're nurturing a healthier future for our community. Stay tuned as we watch this garden blossom into something extraordinary. Together, we're planting the seeds of positive change!
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Ivan Grela, MS3, received the FAU Graduate Diversity Fellowship in 2023. Sponsored by the State University System, this fellowship recognizes students who increase the diversity in their field of study.
Drs. Mario Jacomino and Michelle Lizotte-Waniewski recommended Ivan due to his contributions to medicine before and during medical school.
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Jordyn Lee, MS4, received the Dr. Daniel B. Newell & Aurel B. Newell Doctoral Fellowship in 2023. Supported by the late Mrs. Aurel B. Newell, this fellowship recognizes an outstanding FAU doctoral graduate student.
Drs. Mario Jacomino and Lisa Martinez recommended Jordyn due to her leadership skills, excellent academic record, and community service during medical school.
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Hannah Levine, MS4, received the Graduate Fellowship for Academic Excellence in 2023. This fellowship is given to outstanding graduate students.
Drs. Mario Jacomino and Lisa C. Martinez recommended Hannah for this fellowship due to their academic record, research, community service, and leadership skills during medical school.
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Congratulations to Talia Fradkin, MS3, for the remarkable achievement of having her medical case published in the prestigious American College of Radiology's Case in Point journal.
Fradkin T, Zalasin S. "A 62-year-old man presents with a palpable right retroareolar mass." American College of Radiology Case in Point. 2023.
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The Pediatric Interest Group hosted a Purse Donation Drive for Becca's Closet, a non-profit organization that gives away free formal dresses and accessories to high schoolers who cannot afford them. Members Arielle Sanghvi and Hannah Levine delivered 15 purses and graciously volunteered their time at the organization's headquarters in Pompano Beach on numerous weekends to physically assist high schoolers in looking for a dress.
The staff from Becca's Closet were overjoyed by the generous donations. The Pediatric Interest Group would like to express sincere gratitude to the members of the FAU COM community who made this drive a success.
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Elizabeth Crump, Lindsey Bean, Rebecca Urbonas, Jordan Jones, Dr. Latanya Benjamin | In honor of July's UV Safety Awareness Month, the Dermatology Interest Group from FAU's Schmidt College of Medicine teamed up with Dr. Latanya Benjamin, Associate Professor of Pediatric Dermatology, for a special sun safety presentation. Held at the Milagro Center summer camp, this session aimed to educate young minds about the importance of protecting their skin from harmful UV rays. | |
Pictured right to left: Rebecca Napier, COO, Jerry Capote, CMO for Broward Health, Matt Garner, CEO for Broward North, Michelle Branham, Secretary of Elder Affairs, Shane Strum, President and CEO of Broward Health, Antoinette Buckham-Charles, Broward Health North Memory Disorder Center Coordinator | |
On August 9, Secretary Michelle Branham, Florida Department of Elder Affairs visited the Memory Disorder Clinic at Broward Health North. The Memory Disorder Clinics across Florida provide services and resources to individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Rebecca Napier, Chief Operating Officer, FAU Health; Senior Associate Dean for Finance and Administration participated on behalf of the College of Medicine. | |
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Julianna Schepps
Sponsored Research Administrator
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Emily Newell
Administrative Assistant for Graduate Programs
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Jade Ponder
Medical Education Specialist
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The Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) hosted their annual workshop in Chicago this past month. Michael Turtz, Assistant Director of Administration was one of 140 continuing education professionals that met to discuss Continuing Medical Education accreditation and learn how to utilize tools for healthcare transformation. | |
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GME Professionals Day
AHME's Council of Program Administrators and Coordinators (COPAC) has assigned the third Friday in August as GME Professionals Day. ACGME Sponsoring Institutions and the Residency/Fellowship Programs they sponsor honored the significant contributions of GME Professionals who work in programs and central GME offices. These professionals' expertise, skills, and dedication are vital for effective leadership and administration of graduate medical education.
They support institutional officials, program directors, faculty, fellows, residents, and medical students, ensuring optimal learning experiences and a strong foundation for future careers.
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Students Alex Young and Samantha Caballero presented at the Florida Medical Association on July 29 in Orlando, Florida. They worked with PGY-5 surgery resident Daud Lodin, M.D. on the project titled, Bilateral Ovarian Ischemia Without Direct Trauma After Double Self-Inflicted Gunshot Wounds to the Midabdomen. | | | |
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100% of our graduating chiefs passed the written board examination!
Pictured: Christina Layton, DO, Eva Fuentes, MD, John Gigioli, MD, Amanda Marsh, MD, Sara Yi, MD.
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Dr. Larry Lottenberg will be taking on the role of Interim Program Director for the General Surgery Residency Program. | | | |
Ilknur Telkes, Amir Hadanny, Marisa DiMarzio, Girish Chitnis, Steven Paniccioli, Katherine O'Connor, Rachael Grey, Kevin McCarthy, Olga Khazen, Bryan McLaughlin, Julie G. Pilitsis. “High-Resolution Spinal Motor Mapping Using Thoracic Spinal Cord Stimulation in Patients With Chronic Pain” has been selected as the 2023 Top Pain Paper of the Year by the Neurosurgery Journal. Dr. Telkes will present her paper at the 2023 Congress of Neurological Surgeons (CNS) Annual Meeting in Washington, DC, September 9-13, 2023. | |
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Carina Meinke, graduate student in the FAU/Max Planck IMPRS-SC Program received a travel award to attend and lecture at the recent (August 12-15, 2023) Brain in Flux Meeting, Gaia, Portugal, a satellite conference of the joint meeting of the International Society for Neurochemistry and the European Society for Neurochemistry, held in Porto, Portugal. | |
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Matthew Araujo
Spring 2023 graduate with dual graduate degrees in MS Biomedical Science and MS Biomedical Engineering. He was also accepted to FAU PhD Integrative Biology Biomedical Science track program.
Why did you decide to pursue both the M.S. Biomedical Engineering and the M.S. Biomedical Science degree? I decided to pursue both the M.S. Biomedical Engineering and the M.S. Biomedical Science degrees due to the complementary nature of these fields of study and their relevance to the research I am currently conducting with Dr. Oleinikov at the College of Medicine.
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What are some career goals you have with receiving your graduate degrees in Biomedical Engineering and MS Biomedical Science degree? Some of my career goals include becoming a physician and partaking in research while applying the things that I have learned from both of these graduate programs to the field of medicine.
How were you able to juggle both graduate programs? Time management was key. As soon as I knew I wanted to pursue both of these graduate programs, I spent countless hours researching the course requirements for both and picked out the classes that I had planned on taking over the course of the following five semesters, being sure to prioritize classes that would allow me to balance pursuing my academic interests in topics that interested me the most while also allowing me to be able to continue to conduct research at the College of Medicine, to continue working as a Teaching Assistant at the College of Science and as a Medical Assistant at Boca VIPediatrics, and more recently, to continue volunteering as a Medical Scribe/Interpreter at the Caridad Center. Academics, extracurriculars, and work aside, part of time management includes putting aside time for the people and things you love the most. Whether it's spending time with family and friends, pursuing hobbies, or simply taking time for yourself, these aspects of life are equally as important as making time for our more professional obligations, and I came to recognize the significance of these things in maintaining my well-being, sustaining productivity, and remaining motivated throughout my academic journey.
What tips and advice would you give a student about starting a graduate program? Don’t be afraid to talk to new people in your classes! Throughout my time in graduate school and even in my final semester, I have made connections and friendships that will last a lifetime!
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Cody B. Jackson, M.D., Ph.D.
Class of 2023
Resident Physician, Internal Medicine
Oregon Health & Science University
A recent cohort study, led by Dr. Lee from BRRH Vascular Surgery, in collaboration with Dr. Renfro from BRRH Anesthesia and Jamshed Desai, has been made available online ahead of print in the Annals of Vascular Surgery. The study focuses on the utilization of paravertebral block after abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, shedding light on its potential benefits and outcomes. Access the study at: Annals of Vascular Surgery
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In another scientific endeavor, Dr. Jackson, during his tenure at Boston Children’s, contributed to a comprehensive investigation into the mRNA delivery, antibody production, and stability aspects of the Moderna and Pfizer-BioNTech COVID vaccines. The results of this study are now available as a preprint and can be accessed here: ResearchSquare Preprint
Furthermore, an insightful review exploring the cellular mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 entry, authored by Cody during his M3 year's surgery and medicine rotations, has achieved significant recognition. According to Scopus rankings, this review has attained remarkable milestones, including being ranked as the:
- The most cited article published in Nature Reviews journals for the period of 2022-2023.
- The second most cited article across all Nature family journals.
- The third most cited article in the realm of COVID-related research.
For those interested, the review can be accessed via this link: Nature Reviews Article
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FAU and Broward Team Up for School Supply Drive
We express our gratitude to Representative Patricia Williams for her dedication to our community! Her commitment to ensuring our younger generation's preparedness for academics and beyond is truly admirable. We're also grateful for the support from the entire FAU Health community, which has led to a significant step forward in our collective efforts. The recent collaboration in providing school supplies to the community marks the beginning of impactful partnerships aimed at creating positive change.
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