MSBS graduates awarded for academic excellence

On Tuesday, May 10, 2022, the Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine recognized Masters of Science in Biomedical Sciences graduates who received academic awards at an Awards Luncheon for their academic prowess and dedication over the last two years.

Ms. Sheri Daily, assistant director of the MSBS program, acknowledged the difficulties these students have overcome along with virtues they have shown and gained during their time as students.

“You have shown incredible growth and maturity in how you handled each challenge. William Ellery Channing once said ‘Difficulties are meant to rouse, not discourage. The human spirit is to grow strong by conflict.’ There is no denying that the COVID pandemic was a tumultuous time, however, your mental fortitude and resilience saw you through to the other side.”

“In the past two years, you learned that being flexible is fundamental to succeeding. Sometimes being flexible meant adjusting study skills, and sometimes it meant learning to embrace virtual learning platforms, and sometimes it meant getting creative in ways to form study groups. You were flexible when it mattered, yet resolute in accomplishing what you set out to do.”

One graduate and awardee, Emmanuel Ayeni, agreed. “As I reflect on this program, the most valuable experience, besides my education, was the relationships I was able to make. Every individual I became close with has inspired me, lifted me, and pushed me to be my best self.”

When asked for his favorite memory of the MSBS program, graduate and awardee Scott Buchanan, who will enter the Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine in the fall, had a similar experience, “When we all met in person for class for the first time. It was such a fun and refreshing experience.”

Jessica King, a fellow graduate, awardee, and Pre- SOMA Secretary/Treasurer, seemed to agree, stating, “My favorite experience while in the MSBS program would be learning with a small, close group of students. I enjoyed having a more intimate experience with both my classmates and professors.”

Although COVID added complications to the intensities of classwork, the Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences graduates took it in stride and proceeded to succeed academically.

AWARDS PRESENTED TO MASTER OF SCIENCE IN BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES GRADUATES

HIGHEST ACADEMIC DISTINCTION: Scott J. Buchanan, Magna Cum Laude

ACADEMIC DISTINCTION: Jessica Kiarra King, Summa Cum Laude; Asia Louise Hilliard, Cum Laude; Jennifer Lockhard, Cum Laude; Kidra Matthews, Cum Laude; Dorian Mitchell, Cum Laude; Kimberly Ann West, Cum Laude

MSBS PRE-SOMA OFFICERS (Student Osteopathic Medical Association): Lauren Wozny, President; Christian Andrew Jenkins, Vice President

MAPS OFFICERS (Minority Association of Pre-Medical Students): Christina Colon, President; Judy Jamal Mourad, Co-Vice President; Kidra Matthews, Co-Vice President; Emmanuel Shola Ayeni II, Secretary/Treasurer