September 2022

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Student Affairs White Coat Season Underway as LECOM CeremoniesAbound

• LECOM at Elmira

Fashion designers may disagree, but white is the definitive autumn color for the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) first-year students.

By the end of October, LECOM will have held seven White Coat Ceremonies across its four campuses.

During the course of its three-decade legacy, LECOM has been proud to celebrate the White Coat Ceremony – the time-honored, annual rite of passage that denotes formalization of the scholar’s heart and mind to commit to the calling of medicine.

LECOM at Elmira began the annual rite with its Class of 2026 receiving white coats in a ceremony held on Saturday, August 20, 2022 at the Elmira College Gibson Theater.

Approximately 250 guests gathered to watch 128 first-year students receive their white coats. The Keynote Speaker was LECOM Class of 2004 graduate, Dr. Jeremy Lux, an Emergency Medicine Specialist affiliated with Arnot-Ogden Medical Center in Elmira, New York.

Dr. Kathryn G. Graham, 2013 LECOM at Seton Hill graduate, was the guest speaker at Seton Hill on Saturday, September 10, 2022 at the Palace Theater in Greensburg, Pennsylvania. Dr. Graham is an Internist affiliated with Penn Highlands Hospital in DuBois, Pennsylvania. Also addressing the 112 first-year students was Pennsylvania Osteopathic Medical Association (POMA) President, Dr. Lisa Witherite-Rieg.

The recently renovated Warner Theater in Erie, Pennsylvani served as the venue for two White Coat Ceremonies for LECOM Erie, both held on Saturday, September 17, 2022.

Sixty-three first-year Pharmacy students were honored in a morning ceremony featuring Keynote remarks by 2017 graduate, Kathryn E. Zboyovski, Pharm.D.

Later in the afternoon, the College of Medicine leadership cloaked 268 LECOM Erie first-year scholars. Featured speakers included POMA President-Elect, John Kalata, D.O. and 1999 LECOM graduate, Brian R. Perri, D.O., an Orthopedic Surgeon with Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles, California.

LECOM Bradenton concludes the bevy of ceremonies with its White Coat Ceremony to be held on Saturday, October 22, 2022 at the Harvest United Methodist Church in Lakewood Ranch, Florida.

Student Affairs

White Coat (cont.)

First year LECOM at Elmira students listen intently as guest speaker Jeremy Lux, D.O., LECOM Class of 2004, shares words of wisdom.

Three ceremonies are scheduled, beginning with the School of Dental Medicine, cloaking 105 students, and its Keynote Speaker, Class of 2016 graduate, Jennifer Katz, DMD.

Class of 2014 graduate, Flora Lee Blumin, Pharm.D. will address 60 new pharmacy students before the cloaking begins at the morning ceremony. Finishing the day, 196 first-year scholars will receive their white coats at an afternoon ceremony following a greeting from Florida Osteopathic Medical Association (FOMA) President, Dr. Lee Ann Brown, and a Keynote address by 2000 LECOM graduate, Jonathan Yousef, D.O.

The White Coat Ceremony has served as a rite of passage for students in the health professions since 1993. The first LECOM White Coat event was held in 1996.

Student Affairs Dust Off Your Finery: Philanthropists Building Futures Prepare to Gather at Annual LECOM Gala

Community leaders, philanthropists, and supporters from across the nation are preparing now for the yearly gathering of spirited generosity hosted annually by the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM).

The dual LECOM Student Scholarship Auction Gala and Dinner events will be held on October 15, 2022 in Sarasota, Florida and on November 12, 2022 in Erie, Pennsylvania with the proceeds generated by the highly anticipated affairs benefiting the Student Scholarship Fund in assisting deserving students to realize their dream of becoming a medical professional.

The shimmering and indulgent evenings of camaraderie and collegial bidding will welcome a plethora of LECOM allies seeking to provide their deepest support through lively bids as they vie for a vast assortment of

Behind the scenes, LECOM Director of External Affairs, Monsignor David Rubino and Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, Mark Kauffman, D.O. are shepherding their Gala committees, whose tireless efforts, team coordination, and superlative attention to detail are sure to make the worthwhile events the most interesting to

John M. Ferretti, D.O., LECOM President and CEO, and Silvia M. Ferretti, D.O., LECOM Provost, Senior Vice President, and Dean of Academic Affairs host the fundraising festivities, welcoming guests first to the Hyatt Regency grand ballroom in Sarasota and then, one month later, to the Bayfront Convention Center in Erie.

At both of the Auction Galas, Scholarship recipients will be in attendance revealing a depth of sincere gratitude to those assembled.

A delightful cocktail reception will precede a silent and a live auction at the black-tie optional affair, complemented by a toothsome dinner.

Pictured left: Hundreds gathered at the Bayfront Convention Center in Erie to support the LECOM Scholarship Fund.in 2021.

Student Affairs

Auction (cont.)

• LECOM at Elmira

A treasure of donated items will await the Gala attendees this year, including tickets to various theater productions and to professional sporting events, original artwork, custom-designed jewelry, autographed sports memorabilia, dinners, hotel packages, a spate of get-away trips, and a variety of appealing baskets to entice the all and sundry tastes of every participant.

The benefit and fundraiser for the future LECOM doctors, pharmacists, and dentists is a keenly anticipated autumn event that provides monies raised to assist the financial needs of matriculating students. The encompassing theme and character of the evenings is that of sincere support of the students as each attendee, sponsor and contributor, supporter and bidder understands the importance of events such as these - focused upon building futures.

To readers of the Pulse, LECOM extends a warm and welcoming invitation to attend the Gala of their choice, to sponsor a table, to donate a gift, or simply to participate in a manner one most prefers - noting well that outstanding contributions of the medical community and of the greater community as a whole make the yearly occasion an unquestioned success.

As the largest medical school in the country (and as the only academic health center in the nation) with campuses in Erie and Greensburg, Pennsylvania, Bradenton, Florida and Elmira, New York, LECOM extends to generations of medical practitioners a dedicated commitment to exceptionalism and to educational distinction.

The dual Auction Gala events are evocative of that charge as administrator and attendee alike join in the support of the future of medicine - the LECOM scholars.

The delight found in being part of the program is priceless as each attendee champions a cause that will surely transform lives for generations to come.

Plan now to attend the LECOM Scholarship Fund Auction Dinner and Gala October 15, 2022 in Sarasota, Florida and November 12, 2022 in Erie Pennsylvania!

ATremendousAdventure - Dr.Alice Hudder

The whole of Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) wishes Dr.Alice Hudder a happy and healthful retirement.

During her decade with LECOM,Alice Hudder, PhD., MSMEd, Professor of Biochemistry and Medical Genetics, has demonstrated herself to be an outstanding professional and educator, ever seeking the betterment of the scholar, of osteopathic education, and the advancement of the institution. Throughout those many years, she served the College with dedication and sincerity.

Dr. Hudder’s interest in osteopathic medicine was whetted in 1981, while she was serving as an adjunct professor, teaching Microbiology at the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine (NYCOM).

From that moment forward, Dr. Hudder’s career as an academic scientist led her to travel throughout the world, to perform research in a variety of areas, and to teach a plethora of topics. “It has been a tremendous adventure,” noted the proficient educator.

During her decade at LECOM, Dr. Hudder has given hundreds of hours of lectures in biochemistry, genetics, genomics, cell biology, endocrinology, and the reproductive system. She has facilitated Problem Based Learning (PBL) and Directed Study Pathway (DSP) sessions. Afocused academician, she has had published multiple research papers, and she has presented her research at estimable conferences. Dr. Hudder’s work has received research funding and she has even applied for two patents generated by her probative undertakings.

With all of the notable foregoing achievements in view, Dr. Hudder considers Service her most laudable attainment, describing it as, “the cornerstone of my career.” The distinguished educator has served in administrative roles as Course, Discipline and Pathway Director, served on nine graduate thesis committees, advised several student organizations, served on process improvement teams, strategic planning committees and self study teams, in addition to performing work on various boards and subcommittees.

Dr. Hudder (cont.)

Outside of LECOM, she served on the editorial boards of several journals, she has been actively involved on the National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners (NBOME), and she has served as a peer reviewer for nine journals.

In honoring the Community is our Campus credo, Dr. Hudder has been passionately involved in the community during her entire time at LECOM, serving the House of Mercy STEM Program, the Erie Mission, the Multicultural Community Research Center, the Islamic Association of Erie, and offering her musical talent to area nursing homes.

Despite her active involvement in the multiplicity of meaningful endeavors, Dr. Hudder marked the achievements of the LECOM scholars as the most satisfying aspect of her work. “I am humbled and honored to have played a small role in their success,” remarked the departing educator.

A teacher affects eternity – and, it is a truism that she can never tell where her influence stops. LECOM enjoyed the propitious honor to be the wellspring of Dr. Alice Hudder’s gifts in the arena of Biochemistry and Medical Genetics. Indeed, LECOM will miss Dr. Hudder, but she will serve as an exemplar to those who follow in the College mission. May Dr. Alice Hudder enjoy health, happiness, and the blessings of Providence as she turns the page in the next chapter of her life.

Healthy Kids Day at Seton Hill

As the Spring 2022 semester concluded, the LECOM Seton Hill Primary Care Club (LECOM-SH PCC) joined with YMCA-Greensburg to be part of the Healthy Kids Day Program.

The LECOM-SH PCC members set up games and activities for the local students, the purpose of which was to emphasize the importance of healthy eating and exercise. LECOM volunteers also held interactive discussions with children and their families about the human body, quizzing attendees for their chance to win prizes sponsored by the YMCA.

The Healthy Kids Day event gave LECOM students the opportunity to learn more about Greensburg and to share their medical knowledge with the community.

Pictured (from left to right standing): Tayba Aziz, Leila Bouchekouk, Zahra Memon, Sierra Megonnell, Benita Kiabilua; (from left to right seated): Harshitha Gungurthi, Robert Lynn, Kyle Lovisone.

Radiology and CMDAWelcome Summer With Charity Miles Event

LECOM Erie Radiology Club and Christian Medical and Dental Association (CMDA) concluded the Spring Semester with the completion of the Charity Miles Event.

This event was a month-long fundraising contest in which participants raised money by walking, running, or biking. The Charity Miles App was used for the event, where participants joined a team for the campus.

The app converts miles into money, which is then sent directly to charities. Participants were able to choose any charity that they wished to support; however, participants were encouraged to support either UNICEF or Save The Children, since these charities currently are helping with the crisis in Ukraine.

During the month of April, participants contributed more than 2,100 miles. The top six LECOM participants were: Tanner McQuality (282 miles), Dr. Alice Hudder (258 miles), Hannah Baratz (156 miles), Olivia Colon (139 miles), Colton Hurley (112 miles), and Becca Query (92 miles). The winners each received a $20 gift card as a prize for raising the most money.

Gardening Club Created at Elmira

Medical students at LECOM at Elmira have been eager to build a community garden as a part of the firstever LECOM Wellness Club (Health and Horticulture) Groundbreakers Initiative.

The idea first took shape during a presentation by Munir S. Syed, M.D., entitled, Gardening: A Therapeutic Pastime. The talk was attended by more than 30 LECOM students who were eager to begin a gardening club. Six days later, the first interest meeting took place, and the Gardening Club was founded.

The organization will explore gardening as a therapeutic pastime and share its benefits with fellow classmates and with the local neighborhoods.

With an impressive 58 members gathering in less than one month since its founding, the organization hopes to emphasize the role of gardening in stress-relief, the medicinal properties of plants, and the utilization of plants as a source of beauty and comfort.

By providing green spaces at LECOM, in local Elmira areas, and in nearby hospitals, members seek to educate the community as to the way in which spending time in a garden can promote overall wellness.

Students are able to learn about plant-derivatives for pharmaceuticals to develop a more holistic view of medicine, and to better understand plant-based ingredients that can be beneficial or detrimental to patients’ health.

Gardening Club (cont.)

The organization is advised by Dr. Syed, a passionate gardener and an advocate for mental wellbeing. His enthusiasm and efforts have enabled students to bring their ideas to life through the formation of a shared garden space, known as the “Teaching Garden.”

In addition, Dr. Syed’s leadership has led to the acquisition of garden beds - donated by the Elmira Food Bank, soil from the City of Elmira, and more than 25 White Spruce saplings, donated by a local nursery.

The saplings were distributed to students to encourage and explore their own “green thumbs”. Dr. Syed has also acquired donations of seeds, vegetables, perennials, and annual flowering plants from LECOM faculty and friends. Club members have enjoyed working with their adviser outside of the classroom as they contribute to a community goal together; all plantings were completed by June 8, 2022, less than 2 months since the original idea.

The organization has planned several fundraising activities for the fall of 2022, including plant sales, gardening workshops, and a trip to Cornell University’s Botanic Gardens. Club members also hope to harvest and donate the vegetables to local food banks.

LECOM-Elmira is a new campus, and the Wellness Club (Health and Horticulture), “The Groundbreakers”, is optimistic that by creating ecofriendly spaces throughout the town, it will be able to highlight the positive impact of LECOM and leave a lasting mark on those who interact with the medical student community.

LECOM at Elmira Gardening Club members pose at Community Garden Pre-Planting.

LECOM Receives Extraordinary Employer SupportAward

The Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) has received the Extraordinary Employer Support Award from the United States Department of Defense Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) .

The meaningful recognition is designed to advance and further foster a culture in which employers support and value the employment and military service of members serving in all branches of the United States Military National Guard and Reserve Units.

Almost half of the American military force reside in the National Guard and Reserve. For those who serve the nation, finding a balance between civilian and professional responsibilities can be a difficult challenge, one that affects service members and employers alike.

Chief Kevin Goode, LECOM Institutional Director of Police and Security, recently was afforded the opportunity to experience this delicate military-employment balance first hand while spending a day with the United States Airforce 910th Airlift Wing Reserve Unit based in Youngstown, Ohio. The encounter afforded him a better understanding of military responsibilities, those needed to provide a mission-ready force to a great nation. When they are not working alongside their fellow citizens in places of employment, these military members are endeavoring to protect and serve at the highest levels. On a personal level, Chief Goode has a son currently on active duty with the United State Navy. The military service members - past, present, and future have safeguarded and continue to protect the freedoms and enjoys every day.

United States Airforce C130H (Hercules) Tactical Cargo Aircraft prepared for flight over Lake Erie Airspace.

Summer Continuing Medical Education Conference Lauded as Success

Sunny Sarasota, Florida was the location of the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) Summer Primary Care CME Conference. The event was held from July 18-21, 2022 at the Ritz Carlton on Sarasota Bay.

The unique learning experience for physicians and healthcare professionals was well attended with 28 in-person attendees and 33 medical professionals participating virtually.

Physicians and medical professionals seeking to learn the latest information about medical advancements and treatment options were eager to offer overwhelmingly positive feedback evincing the success of the Conference with post-event survey results showing a 90% satisfaction rating from participating doctors.

LECOM faculty and guest lecturers presented topics pertinent to primary care physicians as well as to specialists.

The objective of the four-day seminar was to provide participating physicians with information about new medical advancements in order to increase the scope of treatment options available to primary care physicians and to enhance the physicians’ existing knowledge of topics that were covered.

LECOM offered 20 AOA Category 1-A lecture hours presented by the College Clinical Faculty.

The Summer Primary Care 2022 CME Conference focused upon health problems commonly seen in the offices of primary care physicians. This course included lectures that covered cardiovascular topics, geriatrics, psychiatry, urology, and other keenly important areas of medical knowledge.

The LECOM Summer CME Conference is offered annually in Sarasota and it is intended for physicians, physician assistants, nurses, therapists, and other allied health professionals who practice in primary care.

The eagerly awaited event was decidedly popular with 40% of the participants new to the Conference.

LECOM Alumni from 17 different graduation years were in attendance, highlighting the fact that the topics covered were broad ranging and compelling.

LECOM is proud to be a part of the Suncoast community as its scholars and alumni weave through the tapestry of each community that they call home, giving of themselves in service to their neighbors.

LECOM extends hearty congratulations to the CME event participants. As the College hails the work of skilled medical professionals and the genuine camaraderie bolstered by such meaningful events, all join closer to build success for the shared goals in the betterment of societal health and wellness.

LECOMAlumni Shine During Pennsylvania Osteopathic Family Physicians Society Meeting

The Pennsylvania Osteopathic Family Physicians Society (POFPS) held its Annual Business Meeting on August 6, 2022, at the Hershey Lodge in Hershey, Pennsylvania. The Society members elected new leaders for the organization by installing a new Board of Directors for 2022-2024. The POFPS is the osteopathic voice of family physicians in the Commonwealth.

The Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) featured prominently at the event with several graduates being installed into leadership roles during the ceremonial inductions. LECOM graduate, Jacqueline S. Weaver-Agostoni, D.O. of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania was installed as POFPS Vice President for 2022-2024.

LECOM graduate, Christine M. Rohanna, D.O. of Edensburg, Pennsylvania was installed as the POFPS Secretary/Treasurer for 2022-2024. Another LECOM alumna, Jennifer Sepp, D.O. of Irwin, Pennsylvania was sworn-in as a member of the POFPS Board of Trustees.

Highlighting an estimable LECOM presence, one LECOM graduate - John J. Kalata, D.O. - was honored with the 2022 Frederick J. Solomon, D.O. Award of Merit. The 2022 Frederick J. Solomon, D.O. Award of Merit recognizes outstanding service, both professional and educational, made by a member of the profession.

Pennsylvania Osteopathic Family Physicians Society Executive Director, Andy Sandusky was proud to note that the achievements of these osteopathic family medicine physicians are in service of their greater communities.

LECOM recognizes the fine attainments of its alumni, and the College resoundingly praises their meaningful results.

Scholarship Opportunity for Pharmacy Students

The Oakland County Pharmacists Association in Michigan recently announced a scholarship opportunity for pharmacy students residing in that county.

Open to second-, third-, and fourth-year students, the $1000 Scholarship for Pharmacy students has a September 15, 2022 application deadline. Application packets are available from the Financial Aid Office in Erie and in Bradenton.

Students interested in applying for the Scholarship, “Must demonstrate significant involvement in professional pharmacy organizations.” The applicant must also have a permanent address in Oakland County, Michigan.

LECOM Health Corry Memorial Hospital Receives National Recognition withAge-Friendly Health System Designation

LECOM Health Corry Memorial Hospital recently announced its receipt of a coveted national designation - one that has named the facility as an Age-Friendly Health System. The national achievement was announced to the public during a news conference held at the hospital on June 29, 2022.

LECOM Health Corry Memorial Hospital was awarded the national designation by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement. The Age-Friendly Health Systems Initiative seeks to improve health care for older adults, thereby contributing to a goal of continuing to expand and increase age-friendly care.

After the event, James Y. Lin, D.O., Geriatric Medicine Specialist and President of LECOM Institute for Successful Aging, entertained media interviews.

“LECOM Health always has been in the forefront of patient care, so we are proud to be recognized nationally as part of this vital movement,” remarked Dr. Lin. “We look forward both to sharing our best practices and to learning about all that is working for others who are providing age-friendly care. The Age-Friendly Health Systems Initiative is an important part of our overarching vision to provide every older adult with world-class care,” he affirmed.

LECOM Health is the only academic health system in the state of Pennsylvania that has twice received the Geriatric Workforce Enhancement Program Grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). As a result of that funding, LECOM Health is the first health care system in northwest Pennsylvania to receive an age-friendly designation throughout their continuum of care and across its facilities.

An Age-Friendly Health System designation is based upon the care of every older adult being guided by an essential set of evidence-based practices; accentuating well-conceived practices that cause no harm and that are consistent with the individualized needs of the older adult and his or her family.

This focused Initiative brings together healthcare teams committed to sharing data and collaborative learning. All teams strive to implement age-friendly best practices across emergency departments, intensive care units, medical-surgical units, general wards, and primary and specialty care settings.

The Age-Friendly Health Systems Initiative was established in 2017 by the John A. Hartford Foundation and the Institute for Healthcare Improvement, in partnership with the American Hospital Association and Catholic Health Association of the United States to help hospitals and other care settings implement a set of evidence-based interventions specifically designed to improve care for older adults.

“LECOM Health continues to innovate and to provide world-class care, making this designation a big win for the Corry community and surrounding areas,” noted Jasen Diley, Vice President of Affiliated Services for LECOM Health.“We are among the first health systems in the country implementing age-friendly health care under the Age-Friendly Health Systems movement. We take pride in the excellent care that we provide our older population and we are thrilled to be recognized for it,” he concluded.

LECOM Health Corry Memorial Hospital joins Millcreek Community Hospital, the LECOM Senior Living Center, the LECOM Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, and Parkside Regency at South Shore in the award of this designation. The LECOM healthcare nexus is prestigiously placed within an international group of more than 2,700 health systems working to tailor care to patients’ goals and preferences, and to deliver care that is consistently of the highest quality.

LECOM Health Waterford Family Practice Breaks Ground on New Facility

The Medical Associates of Erie, an affiliate of LECOM Health, recently held a groundbreaking ceremony at the site of the new Waterford Family Practice in Waterford, Pennsylvania.

With completion of the Waterford Family Practice - scheduled for December of 2022 - the multimillion dollar, 5,188-square-foot building will replace the existing facility.

“The Waterford Family Practice will continue to offer exceptional primary care, podiatry, and gynecology; and we are looking to add providers of other specialties at this location as well,” commented Jasen Diley, Vice President of Affiliated Services for LECOM Health and President of Medical Associates of Erie. “This new facility marks another level of innovative, expert care and compassion for our community,” he furthered.

The new facility broadens the already abundant opportunities for LECOM third- and fourth-year scholars who have, for the past many years, engaged in hands-on learning in the prior Waterford Family Practice setting. The Practice serves as a valuable teaching site where LECOM students work alongside practicing physicians. The scholars participate in the full range of the patient experience from taking vitals to performing physical examinations, deepening their learning experience in the fields of ambulatory care, family practice, and pediatric medicine and augmented by working in a medically underserved community.

Micalyn Baney, D.O., Kristen Heard, D.P.M., and Jennifer C. Stull, D.O., will continue to provide medical care at the new practice location.

“This state-of-the-art facility is for all of us,” announced Dr. Baney. “My staff and I do not take for granted the care that we are privileged to provide to our patients and the loyalty that they give to us in return,” the dedicated physician emphasized.

With the visionary leadership of LECOM looking ever forward, the Waterford Family Practice physicians anticipate that the new facility will draw additional specialists, particularly in the field of psychiatric and orthopedic medicine, to further expand care in a need-based community. Thus, the establishment of this new practice location marks yet another purposeful LECOM objective in filling the healthcare needs of the region.

Silvia M. Ferretti, D.O., LECOM Provost, Senior Vice President and Dean of Academic Affairs, Teresa Koon, Legislative Aide to Senator Michele Brooks, County Executive, Brenton Davis and Waterford Mayor, Cody Breon offered remarks during the groundbreaking event as they placed ceremonial shovels into the soil.

The symbolic import of this groundbreaking ceremony is significant. A breaking of ground suggests that a foundation is forthcoming – a framework, an underpinning and a bolstering support that will hold aloft the enduring LECOM Health mission of excellence; one that in a few months’ time, will come to house a brand new setting for health, wellness, healing, and community care.

OPPOn The Lawn at Seton Hill

On August 6, 2022, LECOM at Seton Hill SAAO hosted an OPP on the Lawn event during which students practiced OMT skills outside of the lab in a social setting.

Snacks and drinks were provided by the organization as refreshments and activities were grouped into stations. A skeleton for anatomy visualization and a practice table was erected, upon which those gathered practiced various techniques.

Three second-year students joined SAAO officers and everyone was able to receive individualized attention.

The SAAO goal in this activity was to help the first-year students recognize that OPP is not an off putting technique and that the second-year class is always available for support. Of the 15 first participated, all stated that they enjoyed the experience.

(Lower left) Second-year student, Meghana Gudavalli (center), demonstrated OMM techniques for two first year students.

(Lower right) LECOM at Seton Hill SAAO Officers are pictured with second

Ties that Bind - LECOM Graduate Holds Fast to Family Focus

There is no doubt that the family and the home give rise to some of the greatest virtues, for it is through family that the most dominating virtues of human society are created, strengthened, and maintained.

In every conceivable manner, the family is a link to our past while simultaneously serving as the bridge to our future. Thus, it is not happenstance that many graduates from the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) carry with them an individualized and impactful story of family.

Non-traditional students have played an important role in the broad-based education paradigm advanced by LECOM. A 2019 graduate of the LECOM School of Dental Medicine (SDM), Dr. Jessica Mustelier’s road to LECOM was a long and winding one, and one that required her to make a few stops along the way.

Dr. Mustelier was graduated in 2005, with a degree in chemistry from the University of Florida. She worked as a middle-school teacher in Miami, a periodontal surgical assistant, a researcher for the Center for Disease Control in Atlanta, a dental hygienist, and as a part-time college instructor.

“One of my most compelling philosophies has been, ‘If you have a dream, never ever give up on it!’ Dentistry always has been my dream,” Dr. Mustelier stated, “but I was continually pulled in different directions,” she furthered. “However, I never gave up on it and always, I returned to it,” she beamed triumphantly.

Dr. Mustelier met her husband-to-be in 2006; the couple married in 2011; and the day after she was graduated from Miami Dade College in the Dental Hygienist Program, Dr. Mustelier delivered her son. Two months later, she took her Dental Admissions Test, and in 2015, she was accepted to LECOM. With her husband, Felix, still working in Miami, Dr. Mustelier and her then two-year-old child remained in Bradenton where Dr. Mustelier studied determinedly as a scholar in the school of Dental Medicine.

“I loved the Problem Based Learning (PBL) Pathway,” Dr. Mustelier remarked, defining it as one of her favorite and exclusive LECOM benefits. “I was able to engage in a good deal of self-study at home with my son, versus the usual classroom lectures; and I did not have to leave him in daycare from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.,” she commented contentedly. “Not only did I learn the science, but I interacted with other students, learned to communicate and to diagnose in different ways. I loved it,” she declared.

Dr. Mustelier’s non-traditional path allowed her to hold fast to her family and to nurture the tender years with her son. With the family focus ever in the forefront at LECOM, Dr. Jennifer Mustelier is now living out her dream.

For Dr. Jessica Mustelier, family ties underpinned her passion and LECOM unbound her dreams. Bringing with her a wealth of expert LECOM training and an ability to provide compassionate care, this LECOM dental professional highlights the very essence of family and she makes her Alma Mater deeply proud of her purposeful mission.

Memoriam

LaurenA. Buck

The administration, faculty, staff, and students at the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) are deeply saddened to note the passing of LECOM at Seton Hill scholar, Lauren A. Buck.

Lauren was 26 years-old and she died on May 31, 2022, at home, surrounded by her family, after her year-long battle with a rare form of cancer.

Though words cannot aptly comfort her family and friends in the sorrow that they are feeling, Lauren’s LECOM family hopes that this message of tribute may offer some succor to grieving hearts.

Lauren was as a beautiful thread that weaved through the LECOM campus tapestry; and her vibrant energy and sharp mind were only a few of her many gifts that she shared with those around her.

A West Virginia native, Lauren was born in Weirton, on November 1, 1995. She was a devoted member of Corpus Christi Catholic Church. Lauren earned her Bachelors of Science in Engineering from Wheeling Jesuit University, ranking first in her class.

She was a LECOM fourth-year medical student about to begin her clinical rotations in Iowa when the cancer was discovered.

Lauren was a young woman imbued with abundant talents. She was a goat farmer and a member of the American Dairy Goat Association and Nigerian Dwarf Goat Association. She was also a First Degree Black Belt and member of the United Fighting Arts Federation, competing in numerous matches including the Chun Kuk Do invitational in Las Vegas, Nevada.

She was also an author of epic fantasy fiction who published two books.

The brightness of her spirit and the evident cheerfulness that accompanied her presence leavened those around her with her passion.

The time that Lauren spent within the School of Medicine at LECOM and within the medical community was purposeful and well lived in the pursuit of her dream. She leaves, with all at LECOM, a legacy that will long continue in the collective memory.

In the LECOM family that she leaves behind, her faith endures, her vision inspires, and the memory of her life will live on in all who carry her in their heart.

Local Landlord Offers RentalAssistance

LECOM at Elmira is proud to offer a new funding opportunity to incoming students hailing from the Southern Tier. Due to the escalating housing costs in the area, Jim Capriotti, of Capriotti Properties, graciously has extended his rental assistance scholarship to any incoming scholar.

Applicants need to be a current New York State resident of the Southern Tier Region and matriculating into the Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine Program at the Elmira campus.

In the inaugural offering, 13 incoming students were eligible to apply for the assistance. Students were required to provide a one-page statement summarizing their interest in practicing medicine in underserved areas of New York, preferably within the Southern Tier.

The scholarship recipient, this year, was Jan Ziembicki.

Ziembicki is an Elmira native who has a strong love and desire for practicing medicine in underserved areas. He is driven to give back to the medically underserved Southern Tier Community because the area is home to him. Ziembicki demonstrated this passion for medicine while volunteering at Arnot Ogden Medical Center during which time, he completed his secondary education. In addition, Ziembicki participated in mission trips to San Jose, California, and Denver, Colorado, where he served a non-profit organization dedicated to supplying goods, shelter, and medical care to socioeconomically-impacted residents.

Ziembicki noted that, “Receiving this Scholarship is a great privilege because it allows me to finish medical school with a reduced debt and an increased focus upon education as well as community service.”

While pursuing his graduate education, Ziembicki looks forward to undertaking additional mission trips (with LECOM) to underdeveloped areas such as Ghana, Peru, Haiti, and Guatemala. Moreover, the grateful scholar emphasized that his dedication to serving those less fortunate than himself is the motivating factor that first inspired him to pursue medicine. Jan Ziembicki truly believes an education at LECOM at Elmira will help guide and cultivate his passion for serving those in need.

Kappa Psi HasActive Semester Planned

The LECOM Kappa Psi Pharmaceutical Fraternity Epsilon Eta Chapter has been active in its mission of professional and personal development as well as in seeking to make a positive impact upon the community. In July, Kappa Psi members attended the 60th Grand Council Convention (GCC) held in Phoenix, Arizona.

Brothers Sabrina Alahmad, Bosun Alayoku, Reynell Flores Morales, Drew Johnson, Amanda Melendez Martinez, and Fayola Robillard attended the GCC, alongside Epsilon Eta Alumni and University of Tampa graduate, Brother Christine Heng, PharmD.

During the Convention, student poster presentations were conducted that allowed members to showcase their clinical knowledge, organizational development, and philanthropic efforts. Sabrina Alahmad, Bosun Alayoku, Reynell Flores Morales, Amanda Melendez Martinez, and Fayola Robillard represented the Epsilon Eta Chapter with their unique presentation entitled Evaluating the Use of Cannabinoid Therapy in Sleep Disorders.

Kappa Psi member, Sabrina Alahmad, was named the NPP-99 Foundation Scholarship Recipient based upon her determined effort and diligence. Concluding the Convention, Drew Johnson, the Southeast Province Historian, created and presented an impressive video report highlighting the past three-year history of the Southeast Province.

Epsilon Eta welcomed the first-year pharmacy students to pharmacy school, where Welcome Bags were presented to the Class of 2026. The bags contained essential items to help students begin a great pharmacy school experience.

The Epsilon Eta Chapter already has begun planning a host of social endeavors, philanthropy events, and professional development workshops. Highlighting the semester events during Kappa Psi Service Week (from October 2 - 8, 2022), the Chapter will supply Hygiene Kits to sheltered youth, host a clothing drive for young teens, and undertake a beach cleanup.

RAMPGrantsAvailable

The HIV Vaccine Trials Network is now accepting applications for Research and Mentorship Program (RAMP) Scholar Awards. HVTN is seeking individuals of color who are current medical students seeking to participate in the development of an effective HIV vaccine.

For more information, please visit hvtn.org/RAMP or contact Linda Oseso at loseso@fredhutch.org. Applications are due by January 2, 2023.

ALECOM Masters in Health ServicesAdministration Alumni’s Journey of Courage, Hope, and Overcoming Adversity

My journey did not start easily. I was born with physical disabilities; I've been homeless, and I had a child while still in my teens.

Life came crashing down upon me fast, yet something deep inside told me that I was being called to help other people. I embarked upon my career as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) first responder placed on the front line of life and death situations. I later applied to enlist into the military seven times. Yes, seven times!

I was diagnosed with Scoliosis, with an S-Curve in my lumbar spine and neck. This condition had required me to be reliant upon a brace for twoand-half years, from age 14 to 16. Thus, I was denied enlistment.

Yet, I was capable, and I grew tired of being judged by a piece of paper placing me on the wrong end of the spectrum. I never gave up in my efforts, and finally, I met someone who didn’t tell me “No.”

I enlisted into the United States Army. I have served four years on Active Duty and two years in the Reserves, for a total of six years, and I am so proud to be a United States Army Veteran.

It was, unquestionably, the best decision that I have ever made. It provided me the opportunity to build the necessary character traits to remain resilient and strong throughout adverse situations and to overcome the many obstacles that have come upon me in this life journey.

In October of 2016, I was diagnosed with an illness that accelerated the end of my military career. I had three months to figure out my future. The big question at that point was, “Now What?”.

I had no intention of leaving the Army. I decided to further my education and to use my post 9/11 GI Bill. This course of action not only saved my life, but it also gave me a strong center of purpose once again.

That is the moment when I decided to continue my education, seeking an undergraduate degree at the University of South Florida (USF) and I found my passion for Public Health. It prepared me to continue serving others.

After receiving my undergraduate degree in Public Health, I knew three things:

1. I really liked the health field,

2. I was drawn to the business of healthcare, 3. I was passionate about helping veterans.

These realizations led me to the LECOM Masters in Health Services Administration (MHSA) Program. My LECOM classmates and professors became like family to me. Tools in Healthcare Administration were effectively taught and my questions about the way in which I may become successful in the industry were answered. I was preparing to become a Leader.

Andre Grant (cont.)

Of course, nothing worthwhile in life comes easily. One must do the work. I was focused upon finishing my LECOM MHSA Program that included my research thesis project. I also was in the process of buying a house. To make things even more complex, COVID was exploding to Pandemic levels. Regardless, I was graduated with my LECOM MHSA Degree from LECOM in June of 2021.

The dynamics of the MHSA Program truly helped me to expand and to elevate my career opportunities in many ways. I was formally prepared and credentialed to realize my goals of working in the healthcare industry, serving veterans. My confidence in my abilities was never higher.

Currently, I serve in the Department of Veteran Affairs within the VA Regional Office at Bay Pines VA Hospital in St. Petersburg, Florida. I am a Veteran Service Representative (VSR) in the Veterans Benefits Administration. My life is forever changed. It may seem cliche, but the sky IS the limit, and I am truly grateful to the caring people at my higher education institutions. I give thanks to God who is always present. I am hopeful that those who read my story may find their way forward with courage and confidence, even when facing difficult times.

To learn more about the LECOM School of Health Services Administration Programs, email SHSA@lecom.edu, call 941-405-1533 or visit www.lecom.edu

Women Swimmin’At Elmira

Women Swimmin' is an annual fundraising event for Hospicare and Palliative Care Services, an organization utilizing a holistic, team-based approach to provide compassionate care to the community, regardless of ability to pay.

Women Swimmin’ for Hospicare raises funds for a purposeful cause, and additionally, it provides information and awareness about the agency and its mission.

LECOM students were welcomed into this remarkable community to celebrate more than 150 participants swimming the 1.2 miles across Cayuga Lake to finish at Ithaca Yacht Club.

The 19th Annual Women Swimmin’ event raised more than $584,000 for the cause, a record-breaking amount.

The funds will be used to enhance the ability to provide the comfort measures that patients and families need, including medications and room and board at a 24-hour care residence, emotional and spiritual support, as well as bereavement and educational services.

To learn more about Women Swimmin’ and Hospicare and Palliative Care Services please visit: https:// www.hospicare.org/women-swimmin.

FACULTY/STUDENT NOTES

COLLEGE OF MEDICINE

John Balmer, D.O., Clinical Associate Professor of OPP, authored a piece entitled, COVID 19 Infection May Not Produce Lasting Immunity in Non-vaccinated Young Adults: A Retrospective Review of COVID19 Antibody Data, published in Cureus Journal of Medical Science.

Roger Biringer, Ph.D., LECOM Professor of Biochemistry, authored a piece entitled, Migraine Signaling Pathways: Amino Acid Metabolites that Regulate Migraine and Predispose Migraineurs to Headache, published in Molecular Cell Biochemistry.

Anupam Bishayee, Ph.D., LECOM Bradenton, co-authored an article entitled, Molecular Mechanisms of Action of Epigallocatechin Gallate in Cancer: Recent Trends and Advancement, published in Seminars In Cancer Biology.

Randy Kulesza, Ph.D., LECOM Erie, reported a manuscript entitled, Abnormal Vestibular Brainstem Structure and Function in an Animal Model of Autism Spectrum Disorder was published in Brain Research Co-authors include: Dr. Yusra Mansour (D.O. Class of 2021, Ph.D. Class of 2022) and Alyson Burchell (OMS4, MSBS).

Niki Nourmohammad, OMS4, LECOM at Seton Hill, will be presenting at The American Society of Dermatopathology Annual Meeting in Chicago, Illinois this fall as First Author on her project with HonorHealth Dermatology. The piece is entitled, Rare Cutaneous Metastasis of Renal Cell Carcinoma to Lateral Thigh.

Mohammed S. Razzaque, M.B.B.S., Ph.D., Professor of Pathology at LECOM Erie, authored an article entitled, Prevalence of COVID-19 Vaccine Reactogenicity among Bangladeshi Physicians, published in FASEB BioAdvances.

See link for full article: https://doi.org/10.1096/fba.2021-00158

Dr. Razzaque also co-authored an article entitled, Protective Effects of Vitamin C in Maintaining Optimal Oral Health, published in Frontiers in Nutrition. This work was undertaken with LECOM scholar, Jay Patel. See link for full article: https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2021.805809

Dr. Razzaque also paired with John Acquaviva, OMS4, LECOM Erie, on an article entitled, Phosphate Dysregulation and Neurocognitive Sequelae, published in Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology.

Amit Sharma D.O., LECOM at Seton Hill Class of 2014, authored a piece entitled, Adult Onset Immunoglobulin A (IgA) Vasculitis Secondary to Group A Streptococcus Infection, published in Cureus Journal of Medical Science.

Dr. Sharma also co-authored a piece entitled, Pyoderma Gangrenosum in an African American Male Initially Presenting as Sepsis.

Travis Smith, D.O., LECOM Bradenton Associate Dean of Clinical Education and Assessment, coauthored a piece entitled, A Case of Portal Vein Thrombosis in a Patient with Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase A1298C Polymorphism, published in Cureus Journal of Medical Science.

FACULTY NOTES (cont.)

Varum Soti, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Pharmacology at LECOM at Elmira, co-authored a piece entitled, How Far Has Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Come Along in Treating Patients With Treatment-Resistant Depression? The piece was published in Cureus Journal of Medical Science.

Dr. Soti also was published in Sleep Science, with an article entitled, Sleep Deprivation: A Risk for Epileptic Seizures.

Richard Terry, D.O., LECOM at Elmira Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, authored a piece entitled, COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy a Rural Primary Care Setting, published in Cureus Journal of Medical Science.

Joshua Tuck, D.O., Director of the LECOM Musculoskeletal Institute, Medical Associates of Erie coauthored a piece entitled, Effects of Cervical Spine Exercise Protocol on Neck Pain, Paracervical Muscle Endurance, and Range of Motion in Medical Students: A Prospective Study, published in Cureus Journal of Medical Science.

Dr. Tuck also authored a piece entitled, Matrix-Induced Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation (MACI) is Largely Effective and Provides Significant Improvement in Patients With Symptomatic, Large Chondral Defects: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. The piece was published in Surgical Technology International.

Dr. Tuck and Anthony J. Ferretti, D.O., Orthopedic Surgery Specialists, co-authored a piece entitled, A Case of Recurrent Compartment Syndrome with Concomitant Use of Eliquis. The piece was published in Case Reports in Orthopedics - 2022.

SCHOOL OF PHARMACY

Daniel Austin, Pharm. D., Assistant Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Pharmacy Practice, authored a piece entitled, Interdisciplinary Analysis of Drugs: Structural Features and Clinical Data, published in the Journal of Clinical and Translational Science.

Tara Higgins, Pharm. D., Assistant Professor of Pharmacy Practice, authored an article on Regorafenib, published in the Children’s Oncology Group Pharmacy Newsletter.

Sunil Jambhekar, Ph.D., Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences, completed a review of the manuscript entitled, Cyclodextrin-based Delivery Systems in Parenteral Formulation: A Critical Update Review, published in the European Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics.

Dr. Jambhekar also submitted a chapter about Equilibrium Processes in Pharmaceutics for the second edition of a textbook entitled, Pharmaceutics: Basic Principles and Application.

Nina Pavuluri, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences, co-authored a piece entitled, Association Between NAPLEX Preparation Program Characteristics and First-Time Pass Rates, published in the American Journal of Pharmacy Education.

For that same journal, Dr. Pavuluri also penned Multi-Institutional Analysis of Student and Program Variables as Predictors of Performance on the NAPLEX.

STUDENT NOTES

COLLEGE OF MEDICINE

Amy J. Patel, MMS, OMS2 - LECOM at Elmira recently was selected to serve as a Brain Health Scholar for the Brain Health Initiative (BHI), a nonprofit organization that supports and promotes brain health for the Suncoast region of Florida. The Initiative is a joint effort between BHI and Massachusetts General Hospital, a Harvard Medical School teaching hospital. Ms. Patel also was selected to serve as Program Coordinator and Student Liaison for the incoming cohort.

SCHOOL OF PHARMACY

Christine Scott, DE Class of 2025, was elected as the SGA President with Nancy Guillaume elected to serve in the position of Vice President. Jessica Clark was elected as the SGA Treasurer.

Florida and DE Pathways Class Officer Elections also took place for the Class of 2024 and 2025: Omadevi Somai, Class of 2024, is the new Class Representative to the SGA. Nikki Hawk has been elected as the Class of 2024 President, Jarred Fielder was elected to serve as Vice President, and Lauren Thomas was elected as Secretary/Treasurer.

In the Class of 2025, LECOM Bradenton fourth-year pharmacy students, Whitney Phillips and John Rivera received the Best Poster Award at the FSHP Meeting with a poster entitled, Comparing Postoperative Prescribing Practices at Hospital Discharge to National Recommendations.

ALUMNI NOTES

2004

Captain Thanh D. Hoang, D.O. received the AACE H. Jack Baskin, M.D., Endocrine Teaching Award, at the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology Conference in San Diego, California in May of 2022; and the Navy ACP Laureate Award from the American College of Physicians.

2009

Richard D. Grinstead, D.O. was recognized by Continental Who’s Who as a top radiologist in interventional Radiology.

Matthew Rudolph, D.O. opened a new surgical practice in Palestine, Texas.

2010

Kristen Boughan, D.O. joined the VA Medical Center in Cleveland, Ohio as a hematologist-oncologist.

ALUMNI NOTES (cont.)

2011

Donald Fridley, D.O. initiated Surgical Associates of Bayonet Point, a practice in Florida.

2012

Benjamin Cox, D.O. joined Cox Sports Medicine and Orthopedic Surgery in Mount Pleasant, Michigan.

Jordan Stall, D.O. is a new member of Spectrum Health in Lakeland, Michigan.

2014

Rachel Koski, D.O. is a faculty member in the Division of Neonatology and an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Minnesota Medical School.

2015

Almond Toledo, D.O., with Baptist Primary Care, was featured in an article headline in Lifestyle Jacksonville.

2016

Rachelle Booth, D.O. is serving patients at Primary Care of Western New York, LLP.

Katie Laun, D.O. holds a faculty position with HCA Florida Brandon Hospital and she holds a faculty position with the hospital Emergency Medicine Residency Program.

2017

Nicholas Podhorniak, D.O. is presently seeing patients at Primary Care Bel Air North, in Maryland.

Brogan Schoeneman, D.O. recently joined UR Medicine in Victor, New York.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

September 17

LECOM Erie White Coat Ceremonies

October 15 Bradenton ScholarshipAuction

October 22

LECOM Bradenton White Coat Ceremonies

November 12

LECOM-Erie ScholarshipAuction

November 24-25 Thanksgiving Break

December 19-Jan. 2 Christmas & Holiday Break (most programs)

LECOM Erie

Shari Gould sgould@lecom.edu 814-860-5151

LECOM Seton Hill

Rebeccca Bouille rbouille@lecom.edu 724-552-2879

LECOM Bradenton Debra Horne dhorne@lecom.edu 941-782-5933

LECOM at Elmira Suzanne Harkness sharkness@lecom.edu 607-442-3500

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