Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Graduate Programs Commencement Ceremony
Philadelphia Campus Tuesday, July 28, 2020
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine welcomes you to the Twenty-First Graduate Programs Commencement Ceremony in honor of the Classes of 2020
Master of Science in Forensic Medicine Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences Master of Science in Health Sciences – Physician Assistant Studies School of Health Sciences
Master of Science in School Psychology Master of Science in Counseling and Clinical Health Psychology Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling Master of Science in Organizational Development and Leadership Master of Science in Public Health Management and Administration Master of Science in Non Profit Leadership & Population Health Management Educational Specialist in School Psychology Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology Doctor of Psychology in School Psychology School of Professional and Applied Psychology
Tuesday, July 28 2020, 12:00 Noon Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Program The Twenty-First Annual Graduate Programs Commencement Ceremony July 28, 2020 e PCOM of 2020 bustles with the intellectual activity of hundreds of graduate students in a variety of masters and doctoral programs, partners in a learning community of 2,860 graduate, medical, physical therapy and pharmacy students at campuses in Pennsylvania and Georgia. However, the College has grown from a small seed planted more than a century ago. When osteopathic schools were forming throughout the country in the 1890s, two students at the Northern Institute of Osteopathy in Minneapolis, Mason W. Pressly and Oscar John Snyder targeted Philadelphia as a future home for an osteopathic medical college. e two pioneering osteopathic physicians followed through with their vision, incorporating the Philadelphia College and Infirmary of Osteopathy on January 24, 1899. e first PCIO degree was awarded to a transfer student; the first PCIO class, comprised of two students, graduated from the fledgling college then located at 21 South 12th Street, in February 1900. e college prospered and moved through a number of sites in its first century, including 1715 North Broad Street, 832 Pine Street, 19th and Spring Garden, 48th and Spruce, and finally, the City Avenue Campus. During this growth period, the medical curriculum intensified, osteopathic research was initiated, and clinic and hospital services grew dramatically as the medical school’s student body and faculty rapidly expanded. After nearly a century of training physicians, PCOM opened its first graduate degree program, the Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences in 1993. e first five graduates in June 1995 marked the beginning of yet another period of growth for the college — the development of the graduate school. Today, nearly 900 graduate students are enrolled in PCOM’s masters and doctoral degree programs and 254 degree candidates are with us today at commencement. August 2005 marked the opening of the PCOM Georgia Campus, the College’s branch campus located in Suwanee, Georgia, a suburb of Atlanta. e PCOM School of Pharmacy opened at the Georgia Campus in August 2010. In 2016, the first class of Physician Assistant students began their studies at the Georgia Campus and we welcomed our first Doctor of Physical erapy students in June 2018. e PCOM School of Professional & Applied Psychology and PCOM School of Health Sciences were added in 2018 to house the numerous graduate programs in these areas. In 2019, PCOM expanded its Georgia mission with the opening of PCOM South Georgia, in Moultrie, Colquitt County, GA. PCOM’s graduate students pursue studies at the master’s level in biomedical sciences, counseling and clinical health psychology, mental health counseling, organizational development, forensic medicine, public health management and administration, nonprofit leadership and population health management, and physician assistant studies. Doctoral-level study is offered in clinical psychology and in educational psychology, and a complete three-level program offers the master’s, postmaster’s educational specialist, and doctoral degrees in school psychology. Certificate programs are offered in biomedical sciences, organizational development and leadership, and in psychology for professionals seeking respecialization in clinical psychology or certification as school psychologists. e trustees, faculty and administration are pleased that you are with us on this important day in our academic year, as we celebrate our graduate students, their research and their futures in the academic and professional community.
The Star-Spangled Banner
Oh, say, can you see, by the dawn’s early light,
What so proudly we hail’d at the twilight’s last gleaming?
Whose broad stripes and bright stars, thro’ the perilous fight,
O’er the ramparts we watch’d were so gallantly streaming? And the rockets’ red glare, the bombs bursting in air, Gave proof thro’ the night that our flag was still there. O say, does that star-spangled banner yet wave
O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave? Francis Scott Key September 1814
Program Welcome Provost, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean, Class of 1976 . . . . . . . . . . . Kenneth J. Veit, D.O., M.B.A Reflection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Veit The National Anthem*. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PCOM Pulmonics Choir Greetings from the President President and Chief Executive Officer, Class of 1981 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jay S. Feldstein, D.O. Remarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . John P. Kearney Chairman, Board of Trustees Welcome Dean, School of Health Sciences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gregory McDonald, D.O. Presentation of Candidates for Degrees in Course . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Veit School of Health Sciences Master of Science in Forensic Medicine Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences Master of Science in Health Sciences – Physician Assistant Studies Conferring of Degrees. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Feldstein Welcome Dean, School of Professional and Applied Psychology. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Robert A. DiTomasso, Ph.D., ABPP Presentation of Candidates for Degrees in Course . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Veit School of Professional and Applied Psychology Master of Science in School Psychology Master of Science in Counseling and Clinical Health Psychology Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling Master of Science in Organizational Development and Leadership Master of Science in Public Health Management and Administration Master of Science in Non Profit Leadership & Population Health Management Educational Specialist in School Psychology Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology Doctor of Psychology in School Psychology Conferring of Degrees. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Feldstein Student Address School of Health Sciences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jacob Thomas Kemmerer, MS ’20 Student Address School of Professional and Applied Psychology . . . . . . . . . . Leslie Mauras Fernandez, PsyD ’20 Closing Remarks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Dr. Veit
PhiladelphiaCollege of Osteopathic Medicine School of Health Sciences Gregory McDonald, D.O., Dean
Master of Science in Forensic Medicine Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences Master of Science in Health Sciences – Physician Assistant Studies
Degrees inCourse MASTeR oF SCieNCe iN FoReNSiC MeDiCiNe
Morgan M. Bock B.S., Washington College
erin Maura Reilly B.A., California University of Pennsylvania
Nicole Lynn DiMarino B.S., Towson University
ivannie August Robertson B.A., Hamline University
Vernell M. Fanning B.S., Cheyney University of Pennsylvania
Annette Rosenfield B.S., e Pennsylvania State University
Michelle Nicole Finnerty B.A., Temple University
Mandy C. Santiago B.S., Skidmore College M.S.S., Bryn Mawr College
ileanne Marie Gomez B.S., e Pennsylvania State University Angel Rebecca Graham B.A., Mitchell College erin Genevieve Hagan B.A., Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania ien Hoang B.S., Baylor University M.A., University of Houston - Victoria William L. McGill, Ph.D. A.A.S., Pennsylvania College of Technology B.S., University of Southern California M.S., University of Maryland M.P.A.S., e Pennsylvania State University Faosat Muftau-Lediju B.S., Indiana University of Pennsylvania Briana Dolores Randolph B.A., Temple University
Kendra Seaman B.S., La Roche College Sydney Makayla Shaver B.A., University of Tennessee Knoxville Gregory William Snell B.S., Baker University Melanie Lynn Snyder B.S., Millersville University William Bruce Swallow, D.o. B.S., Bucknell University D.O., Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine Andrew White B.S., Seattle University Najah Renee Young B.S., Temple University
Degrees inCourse MASTeR oF SCieNCe iN BioMeDiCAL SCieNCeS Sana Abbas Neurobehavioral Science Concentration B.S., University of Texas at Dallas
Sarah elizabeth Congdon Public Health Concentration B.S., Gettysburg College
Abigail Adu Forensic Biology Concentration B.S., Stony Brook University
Kaitlyn Victoria Davis Public Health Concentration B.S., e University of Scranton
Jonathan Steven Amora Forensic Biology Concentration B.S., Drexel University
Tameka Clarece Dean Research Concentration B.S., Georgia College
Beverly K. Andre Public Health Concentration B.S., Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania
Marykate Decker Neurobehavioral Science Concentration B.S., Fordham University
Kadeem Archer-idodo Public Health Concentration M.S., Texas Tech University
Mojisola Delano Public Health Concentration B.S., University of Texas at Dallas
Zoe Marla Beausoleil Neurobehavioral Science Concentration B.S., University of New Hampshire
T’Mora Simone Dorsey Medical Simulation Concentration B.S., University of Georgia
Jake Austin Bernstein Medical Simulation Concentration B.S., University of Alabama
Tera J. egan Neurobehavioral Science Concentration B.S., Saint Joseph’s University
Nicole Kathleen Borden Neurobehavioral Science Concentration B.S., e Pennsylvania State University
Daved Atman Fared Neurobehavioral Science Concentration B.S., e Pennsylvania State University
Rushil V. Brahmbhatt Research Concentration B.S., University of the Sciences in Philadelphia
Kathryn Michelle Hyduchak Forensic Biology Concentration B.S., Saint Joseph’s University
Julia Mei-Li Burns Public Health Concentration B.S., Muhlenberg College
Gursharanjit Kaur Medical Simulation Concentration B.A., Rutgers - e State University of New Jersey
Anthony Richard Caruso Forensic Biology Concentration B.A., University of Delaware
Anugraha Svetlana Kutty Public Health Concentration B.S., University of Pittsburgh
Aizaz Makhdoom Chaudhary B.S., University of Georgia
Bianca Bettina Reyes Lacay Public Health Concentration B.S.N., R.N., University of Delaware
Degrees inCourse Danielle N. Lapoint Research Concentration B.S., Duquesne University
Amogh Sehgal Research Concentration B.S., Butler University
Patrick Magdalinski Forensic Biology Concentration B.S., University of Pittsburgh
Neil Varun Sen Neurobehavioral Science Concentration B.S., University of Pittsburgh
Cassidy Genneth Nieder Research Concentration B.S., Florida State University
Sumit Gurdeep Singh Forensic Biology Concentration B.A., Temple University
elizabeth Ann o’Connor Neurobehavioral Science Concentration B.S., Lebanon Valley College
Begum H. Slayyeh Research Concentration B.S., University of California San Diego
Halil onal Research Concentration B.S., Rowan University
Sydney Renee Sudler Forensic Biology Concentration B.S., Delaware State University
Alexander Christian Papa Research Concentration B.S., Saint Joseph’s University
Christopher Kevin Sutera Research Concentration B.S., Drexel University
Adona Pjetergjok Forensic Biology Concentration B.A., Baruch College
Kejia Tian Forensic Biology Concentration B.S., University of Pittsburgh - Bradford B.S., University of Pittsburgh
Kourtney Richardson Medical Simulation Concentration B.S., Auburn University Michael Christopher Ritsick Public Health Concentration B.S., Wilkes University Peter Vincent Rovito Neurobehavioral Science Concentration B.S., e Pennsylvania State University
Kimberly Townsend Public Health Concentration B.S., e Pennsylvania State University Levina i Truong Neurobehavioral Science Concentration B.S., Temple University Catherine Marie Wastella Forensic Biology Concentration B.S., e Pennsylvania State University
Degrees inCourse MASTeR oF SCieNCe iN HeALTH SCieNCeS – PHYSiCiAN ASSiSTANT STUDieS Kayla Frances Argudo B.S., University of Delaware
Jensen Taylor Dunkling B.S., Towson University
Gia Marie Avallone B.S., Saint Joseph’s University
Colleen Mary Dykeman B.S., e College of New Jersey
Bintou Berete B.S., Ramapo College of New Jersey
Cory German B.A., Stockton University
Lauren elizabeth Bernardi B.A., Northwestern University
Kelsey Kathleen Graham B.S., Rowan University
Kristine Nell Bizzarro B.S., Philadelphia University
Katherine Maria Grinberg B.S., e Pennsylvania State University
evangela Bouikidis B.S., University of the Sciences in Philadelphia
Rachel Lyn Hawkins B.A., Arcadia University
Crystal Lynn Boyer B.S., University of Saint Francis
Dana Marie Herberg B.S., Villanova University
Brianna Beverly Bracy B.S., California State University, Long Beach
Christy Massiel Herrera B.S., University of North Florida
Lauren olivia Bruce B.S., e Pennsylvania State University
Michalia Amony Humphrey B.S., Albright College
Bryan Patrick Carter B.S., Ursinus College
ezinne Nonso ifi B.S., Central Connecticut State University
Samantha elizabeth Crago B.S., Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania
Kristina Noelle Kassis B.A., Skidmore College
Madison Helen Day B.S., e Pennsylvania State University
Caroline Hannah Kearney B.S., e Pennsylvania State University
eric David DiPasquale B.S., West Chester University of Pennsylvania
Jacob omas Kemmerer B.S., East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania
Lindsay Nicole Drubel B.S., e College of New Jersey
Lindsay Rice Kio B.S., University of Central Florida M.S., East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania
Degrees inCourse Allison Klug B.S., University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
Teira Marie Pendleton B.S., Lincoln University of Pennsylvania
Ania Martha Krawiec B.S., Loyola University Maryland
Alex edward Pinto B.S., e College of New Jersey
Alexandria Grace Kwapinski B.S., Lafayette College
Natalie Merchant Price B.S., University of the Sciences in Philadelphia
emily Geneva Latimer B.S., University of the Sciences in Philadelphia
Brooke elizabeth Reichenbach B.S., Lehigh University
Chloe Amber Lavell B.S., omas Jefferson University
Chelsea A. Ritter B.S., University of New Haven
Judy Pham Le B.S., e Pennsylvania State University
Jessica Sebastian B.S., University of the Sciences in Philadelphia
Patrick William MacArthur B.S., e Pennsylvania State University
Abigail Rose Smucker B.S., e Pennsylvania State University
Daniela Marinaro B.S., Stockton University
Mary Madeline Sondermeyer B.A., Villanova University
Volodymyr Martynchuk B.A., California State University, Northridge
Julia Speciale B.A., Arcadia University
Zachary Murphy B.S., Misericordia University
Qian Sun Lanzhou University, China
emily Anne Nazareno B.S., Sonoma State University
Andrew Joseph Suplicki B.S., Loyola University of Chicago
Katelynn Suzanne o’Brien B.S., Florida State University
Mariana Tolosa B.A., B.S., University of Florida
Haley Christine o’Hora B.A., Wheaton College
Nicole Ulrick B.A., e George Washington University
Allegra ondrejka B.S., Long Island University Brooklyn
Alana Waters B.S., omas Jefferson University
Stephen Gregory osowski B.S., Villanova University
Alexandra elizabeth Wilcox B.S., e Pennsylvania State University
PhiladelphiaCollege of Osteopathic Medicine School of Professional and Applied Psychology Robert A. DiTomasso, Ph.D., ABPP, Dean
Master of Science in School Psychology Master of Science in Counseling and Clinical Health Psychology Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling Master of Science in Organizational Development and Leadership Master of Science in Public Health Management and Administration Master of Science in Non Profit Leadership & Population Health Management Educational Specialist in School Psychology Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology Doctor of Psychology in School Psychology
Degrees inCourse MASTeR oF SCieNCe iN SCHooL PSYCHoLoGY Kristina Barbato B.A., Rowan University ulisile Buthelezi B.A., Rutgers - e State University of New Jersey Kyra elizabeth ebersole B.S., e Pennsylvania State University Aneetria Rayneata Gough B.A., Immaculata University Morgan elizabeth Heiser B.S., e Pennsylvania State University Julie Paige Leeds B.A., e Pennsylvania State University Gabrielle Alexa Louden B.S., Temple University
olivia Catherine Messina B.S., University of Pittsburgh M.S.Ed., University of Pennsylvania Tyler J. Miksitz B.A., Temple University Deanne Millo B.A., Stockton University M.A., Fairleigh Dickinson University Briana Nicole Nero B.S., Wilmington University Alivia Alyse Plevyak B.S., Misericordia University Jessica Rachel Ponzo B.A., University of Central Florida Lindsay Washington A.S., Montgomery County Community College B.A., Temple University
Degrees inCourse MASTeR oF SCieNCe iN CoUNSeLiNG AND CLiNiCAL HeALTH PSYCHoLoGY Ashley Ann George B.A., Rutgers - e State University of New Jersey
Degrees inCourse MASTeR oF SCieNCe iN MeNTAL HeALTH CoUNSeLiNG Samantha Rae Baker B.A., Temple University
Lindsey Jane Kuhl B.A., Binghamton University
Madeline Bavis B.A., Temple University
Madison Macintosh B.S., Drexel University
David Anthony Cavanaugh B.S., Fordham University
Christina erica Mattschei M.S., West Chester University of Pennsylvania M.S., Saint Joseph’s University
Allysen Chase Christiansen B.A., West Chester University of Pennsylvania imani Chantale Constant B.A., Chatham University Akaycia Yvonne Curry B.S., Florida Memorial University erin Christine Curtin B.A., Temple University Robin Nicole D’Amico B.A., e Pennsylvania State University erin Nicole Dewson B.A., Neumann University Francesca Joanna DiGregorio B.A., Cabrini University Katerina Grady B.A., University of Maine, Orono Alexis Grier B.A., West Chester University of Pennsylvania Jodi Lynn Hasko B.S., University of Maryland, University College Siobhonn Job B.S., e University of the West Indies Jasmine Johnson B.S., Temple University M.P.H., Capella University Taylor elizabeth Kenny B.A., Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania
erica Marie McLaughlin B.A., Chestnut Hill College Katie Patricia Militello B.A., Temple University Dean Anthony Minissale B.S., Kutztown University of Pennsylvania Sophia Polin B.A., Bard College B.A., City University of New York Jordyn Renee Powell B.S., Misericordia University Benjamin Andrew Richter B.A., University of Findlay Molly Roberts B.A., West Chester University of Pennsylvania Amanda Nicole Screnci B.A., Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania Kaitlyn Rose Smith B.A., Manhattan College Amanda Grace Turco B.S., e Pennsylvania State University Catherine Ann Wagner B.A., Bryn Mawr College Luke edward Wilson B.A., e Pennsylvania State University Samantha Renee Zajdel B.A., Temple University
Degrees inCourse MASTeR oF SCieNCe iN oRGANiZATioNAL DeVeLoPMeNT AND LeADeRSHiP
Andrew Blassingame B.A., West Chester University of Pennsylvania Marisa elaine Bolton B.S., Saint Joseph’s University Lisa A. Breitfeller B.A., Lycoming College Cayla Breanna Buck B.S., Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University Juan Carlos Castro B.S., M.P.H., West Chester University of Pennsylvania Cindi Clark B.S., omas Jefferson University Briana Nichelle Davis B.S., Albany State University Mark A. Dixon B.A., Drexel University Amanda Lee Fisher B.A., e Pennsylvania State University
Verne Patrice Freeman B.S., Morgan State University M.S., University of Baltimore M.B.A., West Chester University of Pennsylvania Mallory K. Hidinger Forensic Biology Concentration B.S., Slippery Rock University M.P.H., e Pennsylvania State University Jessica Lynne Holdsworth B.A., Temple University Jason L. Johnson B.A., McDaniel College Melissa Powell-Vellucci B.B.A., Strayer University Virgen Ruiz Gonzalez B.A., Dickinson College Ziera D. Simmons B.S., Lincoln University of Pennsylvania Lynesia A. Steward B.A., La Salle University Angela Rose Strickland B.A., Kutztown University of Pennsylvania
Degrees inCourse MASTeR oF SCieNCe iN PUBLiC HeALTH MANAGeMeNT AND ADMiNiSTRATioN eodore James Bunch B.A., Texas State University M.A., Immaculata University Kareem idris Chappell B.S., Lincoln University of Pennsylvania Maciel De Los Santos B.S., Kutztown University of Pennsylvania Jazmin Kandace edwards B.A., e Pennsylvania State University Hayden Celeste Karlheim B.S., e Pennsylvania State University Markuah Dee-emmanuel Kromah B.S., Youngstown State University Brandi Michelle Moiyallah B.S.W., Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania Nancy Ngo B.A., Temple University Joanna Marie Pecora B.A., Villanova University elizabeth ivette Rosario B.S.W., Eastern University Stephanie Shedrick B.S.W., Temple University
Degrees inCourse MASTeR oF SCieNCe iN NoN PRoFiT LeADeRSHiP AND PoPULATioN HeALTH MANAGeMeNT Crystal Lannett Adkins B.S., University of Maryland University College Deidre Marie Angelini B.S., Temple University Rachel Dian Balshem B.A., Temple University Samantha Lee Banks B.S., University of Phoenix Regine Chery B.B.A., Temple University erin Drummond B.A., Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania M.S., Holy Family University Leslie Beth Dunkley B.S., Kutztown University of Pennsylvania Valerie A. Durden B.S.W., Alvernia University Kristen Marie erway B.A., Lebanon Valley College Mellissa George B.A., Indiana University of Pennsylvania Rosaleen A. Holohan B.A., SUNY College at New Paltz David Konneh B.S., Arcadia University
elizabeth Jeanne Levitan B.A., M.A., Temple University Laura Anne Longstreet B.S., Gwynedd Mercy University Danica Dov Lynn B.S., omas Jefferson University Monica Louise Moser B.A., Holy Family University Dawn Marie Mott B.S., e Pennsylvania State University Simpson Willee Nuahn B.P.A., University of Liberia, Capitol Hill Tracy Gabrielle Poindijour B.A., Florida International University Morris Salagbi B.A., Temple University Arlene Serrano B.S.W., La Salle University Kathleen Marie Shelinsky-Ficke B.S., e Pennsylvania State University ea Taimanglo B.S., Temple University Amie Alice Wagner B.A., Ashford University
Degrees inCourse eDUCATioNAL SPeCiALiST iN SCHooL PSYCHoLoGY Alexis Adams B.A., Coastal Carolina University M.S., Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Constantina Christina Costalas B.S., Drexel University M.S., Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Alexandra Fasone Garofalo B.A., Neumann University M.S., Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Carmelo Gaudite B.S., La Salle University M.S., Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Bethany Rose Morrison B.A., West Chester University of Pennsylvania M.S., Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Kylie Samantha Newman B.S., Saint Joseph’s University M.S., Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Paris Staord B.S., Susquehanna University M.S., Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Brandon Alexander Wyche B.A., Temple University M.S., Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Degrees inCourse e Doctoral Graduates and eir Research DoCToR oF PSYCHoLoGY iN SCHooL PSYCHoLoGY Kenneth Reimer B.A., M.A., Psy.S., Gallaudet University “e Equivalency of Digital and Paper-Based Administration of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Fifth Edition with Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing Students.”
Degrees inCourse The Doctoral Graduates and Their Research DoCToR oF PSYCHoLoGY iN CLiNiCAL PSYCHoLoGY All doctoral degree recipients also earned the Master of Science in Clinical Psychology, awarded by Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine at the time of progression to doctoral degree candidacy. Courtney Nicole Alio B.A., Cabrini College M.S., Saint Joseph’s University “The Relationship between Deficits in Executive Functioning and Sleep Disorders in Adults with ADHD after Accounting for Cognitive Distortions, Depression, Anxiety, and Neuroticism.” elaine RèNada Augustine B.A., Rider University M.A., La Salle University “Posttrauma Cognitions and Shame: The Relation between Childhood Sexual Abuse and Self-Injurious Behavior.” Julia Therese Boyle B.S., M.S., Saint Joseph’s University “The Relationship between Insomnia, Sleep Continuity Disturbance, Sleep-Related Daytime Dysfunction, Problem Endorsement, and Aging in a Community-Based Sample.” Nora e. Brier B.A., Saint Joseph’s University M.S., Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine “Do Cognitive Distortions and Coping Skills Predict Scar Acceptance and Body Esteem in Women with ICDs and Pacemakers?” irma Campbell M.D., Institute of Critical Care Medicine M.A., New School University “Preliminary Normative Data and an Examination of the Effects of Bilingualism on Executive Functioning in a Georgian-American Sample: A Latent Variables Approach.” Sarah Theresa Caverly B.A., Saint Joseph’s University M.Ed., West Chester University of Pennsylvania “The Role of Social Comparisons in Perceived Parental Competence, Mental Health, and Relationship Satisfaction.”
Degrees inCourse David Charny B.A., University of Maryland M.S., Temple University “Diabetes Training Camp: A Brief Intervention to Improve Self-Management and Physical Activity in Adults with Type 1 Diabetes.” Kelsey Dailey B.A., Temple University M.S., Holy Family University “Validation of the Perceived Safety Scale: A Measure Assessing Youth Perception of Neighborhood Safety.” Lauren Ann Faust B.S., Indiana University M.A., American University “Moderating Effects of Peer Relations on the Relationships between Physical Appearance Concern, Pain, and Depression in Youth with Chronic Conditions.” Leslie Mauras Fernandez B.A., Neumann University M.A., Ed.S., Rowan University “The Effects of Early Parental Loss to Death on Intimate Relationships during Adulthood.” Nicole Jamileh Fleischer B.A., The Pennsylvania State University M.S., Chestnut Hill College “Understanding the Comorbidity of Asthma and Anxiety in Childhood: Characteristics, Vulnerabilities, and Treatment Implications.” Jessica Harpel B.A., Messiah College M.S., Millersville University “Which Clinician and Client Characteristics are Associated with Client-Reported Working Alliance in Individuals with Eating Disorders?” Annalise McGrath B.A., Sarah Lawrence College M.S., Loyola College “ALS and Online Forums.”
Degrees inCourse Raymond Robert May B.S., M.S., University of the Sciences in Philadelphia “Exploring the Effects of Specific Psychosocial Variables upon Caregiver Medical Adherence for Chronically Ill Hematologic Pediatric and Adolescent Patients.” Ashley o’Neal Poole B.S., M.A., Fayetteville State University “An Exploration of Graduate and Medical Students' Perception and Knowledge of other Healthcare Disciplines Contributions to Patient Care.” Micah Lindsey Robinson B.A., Eastern Mennonite University M.A., Hood College “The Impact of Perceived Stigma and Psychosocial Factors on the Effective Utilization of Mental Health Treatment among OEF-OIF Veterans.” Jennifer Rohr Swetkowski B.A., Duke University M.P.H., The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill M.S., Villanova University “The Association between Body Esteem and Post-Operative Outcomes in Adult Weight-Loss Surgery Patients.” emily Candice Ruch B.S., The Pennsylvania State University M.S., Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania “Family Cohesion and Perceived Stress as Predictors of Quality of Life in Maternal Caregivers of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder.” Nicole Michele Ryan B.S., M.S., Drexel University “Evaluating the Relationship between Cognitive Distortions, Resilience, Well-Being, and Burnout in Medical Students.”
Degrees inCourse Sitara Shanmugam B.A., Temple University M.S., Loyola University Maryland “Impaired Self-Awareness and Brain Injury Outcomes: Comparing the Awareness Questionnaire and Patient Competency Rating Scale in a Post-Acute Rehab Setting.” Andrew James Swiantek B.A., Niagara University M.A., University of Denver “Predicting Acceptance of Naltrexone Treatment among Offenders with Opioid Use Disorder.” Veronica Torrico A.A., LaGuardia Community College B.A., Stony Brook University M.A., Teachers College, Columbia University “Post Stroke Depression.”
Degrees inCourse MASTeR oF SCieNCe iN CLiNiCAL PSYCHoLoGY Awarded to the following Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology students at the time of progression to doctoral degree candidacy. Samantha Algauer Lianna Artessa Matthew Bloom Alexandria DiGuiseppe Avery Ducey Julia Gomes Russel Griffin Shalonda Griffin Jessica Henninger Katherine Homa Kaylene irizarry Philip Kaplan Mary Le Samantha Lyon Joclyn Malys Margarett Molina Samantha Nagy Jacquelyn Palladino Alexandra Pappas Pali Payne Brittany Quimby Alexandra Reed Marie Rhoads Laura Salciunas Ashley Smith
Degrees inCourse MASTeR oF SCieNCe iN SCHooL PSYCHoLoGY Awarded to the following Doctor of Psychology in School Psychology students at the time of progression to doctoral degree candidacy. Aigner Allen Alyssa Henry Beenish Rashid Maddie Roxandich Camilla Woodard
Graduate Programs
Awards W
e congratulate all of our award recipients for their distinguished academic performance and service to the College and community.
Awards SCHooL oF HeALTH SCieNCeS THe PRoVoST’S AWARDS FoR ACADeMiC eXCeLLeNCe The Provost’s Awards recognize academic excellence and potential for contributions to the field of study and profession. THe PRoVoST’S AWARD iN FoReNSiC MeDiCiNe William L. McGill THe PRoVoST’S AWARD iN BioMeDiCAL SCieNCeS FoReNSiC BioLoGY CoNCeNTRATioN Nasheed R. Burgess THe PRoVoST’S AWARD iN BioMeDiCAL SCieNCeS ReSeARCH CoNCeNTRATioN Halil onal THe PRoVoST’S AWARD iN BioMeDiCAL SCieNCeS NeURoBeHAVioRAL SCieNCe CoNCeNTRATioN Levina i Truong THe PRoVoST’S AWARD iN BioMeDiCAL SCieNCeS PUBLiC HeALTH CoNCeNTRATioN Kimberly Townsend THe PRoVoST'S AWARD iN BioMeDiCAL SCieNCeS MeDiCAL SiMULATioN CoNCeNTRATioN Jake Austin Bernstein CeNTeR FoR CHRoNiC DiSoRDeRS oF AGiNG eXCeLLeNCe iN ReSeARCH AWARD is award is presented in recognition of a Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences graduate who most truly exemplifies through their research a dedication and commitment to the mission of the Center for Chronic Disorders of Aging (CCDA) at PCOM which is to improve the quality of life for all individuals suffering from age-related chronic diseases and disorders. Danielle N. Lapoint
Awards THe SARA SoMeRS RUPeRT HUMANiTARiAN AWARD This award is presented to a senior physician assistant student who has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to those in need. The recipient exemplifies the philosophy of health care service and compassion above self. Mary Madeline Sondermeyer THe PRoVoST’S AWARD iN PHYSiCiAN ASSiSTANT STUDieS The Provost’s Awards recognize academic excellence and potential for contributions to the field of study and profession. Lauren elizabeth Bernardi DePARTMeNT oF PHYSiCiAN ASSiSTANT STUDieS FACULTY ReCoGNiTioN AWARD FoR oUTSTANDiNG CLiNiCAL ACHieVeMeNT This award is presented to a student who, while on rotations, consistently showed eagerness to learn clinical medicine while maintaining respect for patients, preceptors, fellow healthcare workers and other students. Alexandra elizabeth Wilcox DePARTMeNT oF PHYSiCiSN ASSiSTANT STUDieS FACULTY ReCoGNiTioN AWARD FoR oUTSTANDiNG STUDeNT LeADeRSHiP This award is presented in recognition of outstanding leadership contributions to the community, the College, and to colleagues in the Physician Assistant Program. Jacob Thomas Kemmerer
Awards SCHooL oF PRoFeSSioNAL AND APPLieD PSYCHoLoGY THe PRoVoST’S AWARDS FoR ACADeMiC eXCeLLeNCe The Provost’s Awards recognize academic excellence and potential for contributions to the field of study and profession.
THe PRoVoST’S AWARD iN SCHooL PSYCHoLoGY (MASTeR oF SCieNCe) Alivia Alyse Plevyak
ADVoCACY, LeADeRSHiP AND SeRViCe AWARD iN SCHooL PSYCHoLoGY (MASTeR oF SCieNCe) is award is presented in recognition of a Master of Science in School Psychology graduate who most truly exemplifies the leadership and commitment to being an exceptionally strong advocate for children and youth within school settings and the community and to promoting fair and equitable educational and mental health services for all children and adolescents, especially the underserved. Kristina Barbato
THe PRoVoST’S AWARD iN CoUNSeLiNG STUDieS Samantha Renee Zajdel
ADVoCACY, LeADeRSHiP AND SeRViCe AWARD iN CoUNSeLiNG STUDieS is award is presented in recognition of a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling and Master of Science in Counseling and Clinical Health Psychology graduate who most truly exemplifies the leadership and commitment to being an exceptionally strong advocate for those coping with behavioral health problems and to promoting fair and equitable mental health services and recovery for all individuals, especially the underserved. Robin Nicole D’Amico
Awards THe PRoVoST’S AWARD iN oRGANiZATioNAL DeVeLoPMeNT AND LeADeRSHiP Juan Carlos Castro ADVoCACY, LeADeRSHiP & SeRViCe AWARD iN oRGANiZATioNAL DeVeLoPMeNT AND LeADeRSHiP is award is presented in recognition of a Master of Science in Organizational Development and Leadership graduate who truly exemplifies the commitment to being an exceptionally strong advocate for leading change by fostering and enhancing collaboration, service, and community engagement and to promoting the health of organizations. Lynesia A. Steward THe PRoVoST'S AWARD iN PUBLiC HeALTH MANAGeMeNT AND ADMiNiSTRATioN Markuah Dee-emmanuel Kromah ADVoCACY, LeADeRSHiP & SeRViCe AWARD iN PUBLiC HeALTH MANAGeMeNT AND ADMiNiSTRATioN is award is presented in recognition of a Master of Science in Public Health Management and Administration graduate who truly exemplifies the commitment to being an exceptionally strong advocate for leading change by fostering and enhancing collaboration, service, and community engagement and to promoting the health of organizations. elizabeth ivette Rosario
THe PRoVoST'S AWARD iN NoN PRoFiT LeADeRSHiP AND PoPULATioN HeALTH MANAGeMeNT ea Taimanglo
Awards ADVoCACY, LeADeRSHiP & SeRViCe AWARD iN NoN PRoFiT LeADeRSHiP AND PoPULATioN HeALTH MANAGeMeNT is award is presented in recognition of a Master of Science in Non Profit Leadership and Population Health Management graduate who truly exemplifies the commitment to being an exceptionally strong advocate for leading change by fostering and enhancing collaboration, service, and community engagement and to promoting the evolving population health sector. Valerie A. Durden
THe PRoVoST’S AWARD iN SCHooL PSYCHoLoGY (eDUCATioNAL SPeCiALiST) Kylie Samantha Newman
ADVoCACY, LeADeRSHiP AND SeRViCe AWARD iN SCHooL PSYCHoLoGY (eDUCATioNAL SPeCiALiST) is award is presented in recognition of a newly certified school psychologist from the Educational Specialist in School Psychology program who most truly exemplifies the leadership and commitment to being an exceptionally strong advocate for children and youth within school settings and the community and to promoting fair and equitable educational and mental health services for all children and adolescents, especially the underserved. Constantina Christina Costalas
THe PRoVoST’S AWARD iN CLiNiCAL PSYCHoLoGY Nicole Michele Ryan
ADVoCACY, LeADeRSHiP AND SeRViCe AWARD iN CLiNiCAL PSYCHoLoGY is award is presented in recognition of a Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology graduate who most truly exemplifies the leadership and commitment to being an exceptionally strong advocate for those coping with behavioral health problems and to promoting fair and equitable mental health services and recovery for all individuals, especially the underserved. Ashley o’Neal Poole
Awards 2020 PReSiDeNT’S LeADeRSHiP iN DiVeRSiTY AWARD The President’s Leadership in Diversity Award is given to a student graduating in 2020 from various programs at Philadelphia, Georgia, and South Georgia, who has made a unique contribution to create an environment of shared responsibility and ownership for diversity and inclusion at PCOM, as well as demonstrating emerging and sustained commitment thereon. Julia Mei-Li Burns Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences Jodi Lynn Hasko Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling Kareem idris Chappell Master of Science in Public Health Management and Administration Ashley o’Neal Poole Doctor of Psycyhology in Clinical Psychology
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Boards of Trustees Administration
Boards of Trustees Philadelphia College of osteopathic Medicine – Board of Trustees James H. Black, D.O. ’62, LL.D. (Hon.)
Jerel A. Hopkins, Esquire
John B. Bulger, D.O. ’95, M.B.A.
Mr. John P. Kearney
Timothy P. Burgess
Vincent Lobo, D.O. ’65
Joseph A. Dieterle, D.O. ’70
Suzanne S. Mayes, J.D.
Mr. Matthew O. Elkes
Mr. R. David McCleskey
Jay S. Feldstein, D.O. ’81
A. Scott McNeal, D.O. ’88
Stephanie H. Felgoise, Ph.D., A.B.P.P.*
Dana C. Shaffer, D.O. ’85**
Julie R. Fox
Mr. Wayne T. Sikes
Mr. omas J. Gravina
Kenneth J. Veit, D.O. ’76, M.B.A.
Philadelphia College of osteopathic Medicine Foundation and Philadelphia College of osteopathic Medicine – officers Chairman of the Board
John P. Kearney
Vice Chairman
Thomas J. Gravina
President and Chief Executive Officer
Jay S. Feldstein, D.O. ’81
Provost, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean
Kenneth J. Veit, D.O. ’76, M.B.A.
Vice President for Finance and Chief Financial Officer
Peter Doulis, C.P.A.
Chief Legal Affairs Officer
David F. Simon, J.D.
Chief Advancement Officer
Carrie Collins, J.D., Ph.D.
Chief Diversity and Community Relations Officer
Marcine Pickron-Davis, Ph.D.
Vice Provost, Chief Academic Officer, Dean, PCOM Georgia Osteopathic Medical Program H. William Craver III, D.O. ’87 Dean and Chief Academic Officer School of Pharmacy – PCOM Georgia
Shawn D. Spencer, Ph.D.
Chief Campus Officer – PCOM Georgia
R. Bryan Ginn Jr.
Executive Assistant to the President and Secretary
Lynn Kush
*Faculty Representative **Alumni Representative
Administration Jay S. Feldstein, D.o. President and Chief Executive Officer
Mindy George-Weinstein, Ph.D. Chief Research and Science Officer
Kenneth J. Veit, D.o., M.B.A. Provost, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Dean
Richard T. Smith, M.B.A. Chief Information Officer
Peter Doulis, C.P.A. Vice President for Finance and Chief Financial Officer Carrie Collins, J.D., Ph.D. Chief Advancement Officer R. Bryan Ginn Jr. Chief Campus Officer, PCOM Georgia Marcine Pickron-Davis, Ph.D. Chief Diversity and Community Relations Officer David Simon, J.D. Chief Legal Affairs Officer H. William Craver iii, D.o. Dean and Chief Academic Officer, Osteopathic Medical Program, PCOM South Georgia Shawn D. Spencer, Ph.D. Dean and Chief Academic Officer, School of Pharmacy, PCOM Georgia Gregory McDonald, D.o. Dean, School of Health Sciences Robert DiTomasso, Ph.D., A.B.P.P. Dean, School of Professional and Applied Psychology Adrianne Jones, M.L.S. Chief Admissions Officer Jane Z. Dumsha, Ph.D. Chief Research and Sponsored Programs Officer Stephanie Ferretti, M.L.S. Chief Library Services Officer erik Langenau, D.o., M.B.A. Chief Academic Technology Officer Christina Mazzella, M.S. Chief Human Resources Officer Margaret McKeon, J.D., B.S.N. Chief Compliance Officer Wendy W. Romano Chief Marketing and Communications Officer
Marisa Niebalski Chief Information Security Officer Frank H. Windle Chief Facilities Officer Patrick Wolf Chief Occupational and Environmental Safety Officer Samuel Matheny, M.A., M.ed. Chief Student Services Officer Maureen o’Mara Carver Registrar Patience A. Mason, M.ed. Chief Student Affairs Officer Lynesia Steward Deputy Chief Advancement Officer Michael Sampson, D.o. Chair of Primary Care, PCOM Georgia Tina Woodruff, ed.D. Senior Advisor to the Provost Bonnie A. Buxton, Ph.D. Associate Dean, Osteopathic Pre-Clinical Education, PCOM Georgia Kerin Fresa, Ph.D. Associate Dean, Osteopathic Pre-Clinical Education Naushad M. Khan Ghilzai, Ph.D. Associate Dean, Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, PCOM Georgia Joseph Kaczmarczyk, D.o., M.P.H., M.B.A. Interim Dean and Chief Academic Officer, PCOM Georgia David Kuo, D.o. Associate Dean, Graduate Medical Education Philadelphia Campus Michael Becker, D.o., M.S. Associate Dean, Osteopathic Clerkship Education
Administration (continued) Julie Wickman, Pharm.D. Assistant Dean, Clinical Education School of Pharmacy, PCOM Georgia Michael Lee, Ph.D. Assistant Dean, Professional and Student Affairs, School of Pharmacy, PCOM Georgia
Jessica Glass Kendorski, Ph.D., N.C.S.P., BCBA–D Chair, School Psychology Jeffrey M. Branch, ed.D. Chair, Organizational Development and Leadership Pamela Ruoff, M.S. Senior Manager, Alumni Special Services
John Bulger, D.o. Regional Assistant Dean, Geisinger Health System
Deborah Castellano Senior Program Manager
Brian Balin, Ph.D. Chair, Department of Bio-Medical Sciences
Michael S. Lombardo, ed.D., M.B.A., M.S. Executive Director, Student Affairs
Phillip Palmer, Ph.D., P.T. Chair, Physical Therapy
Christine Keck, S.P.H.R., C.e.B.S. Executive Director, Human Resources
Katherine Galluzzi, D.o. Chair, Geriatrics
C. Andrew Mueller, M.B.A. Director, Financial Reporting and Planning
Laura Levy, DHSc, PA-C Chair, Department of Physician Assistant Studies
Alisa Toney, M.S. Director, Development
Harry Morris, D.o., M.P.H. Chair, Family Medicine
Katy Tresco, Ph.D. Director, Doctor of Psychology in School Psychology
Arthur Sesso, D.o. Chair, Surgery Avadhesh C. Sharma, Pharm.D., Ph.D. Chair, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, PCOM Georgia John Tevar, Pharm.D. Chair, Pharmacy Practice Stephanie H. Felgoise, Ph.D., A.B.P.P. Associate Dean of Academic Integration, School of Professional & Applied Psychology Chair, Clinical Psychology
Richard Allen, Psy.D. Director, Educational Specialist in School Psychology Virginia Burks Salzer, Ph.D. Director, Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Psychology Lisa Corbin, M.S., LPC Director, Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
The Graduate Programs Deans Department Chairs Program Directors Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine Alumni Association
Graduate Programs Deans
PCoM School of Professional and Applied Psychology Robert A. DiTomasso, Ph.D., ABPP PCoM School of Health Sciences Gregory McDonald, D.O.
Graduate DepartmentChairs Department of Physician Assistant Studies Laura A. Levy, DHSc, PA-C
Department of Forensic Medicine & Pathology Gregory McDonald, D.O. Department of Bio-Medical Sciences Brian Balin, Ph.D. Department of Physical Therapy Phillip Palmer, P.T., Ph.D. Department of Clinical Psychology Stephanie H. Felgoise, Ph.D., ABPP Department of School Psychology Jessica Glass Kendorski, Ph.D., NCSP, BCBA–D Department of Counseling Lisa Corbin, M.S., LPC Department of organizational Development and Leadership Jeffrey M. Branch, Ed.D.
Graduate Program Directors Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology Stephanie H. Felgoise, Ph.D., ABPP Doctor of Psychology in School Psychology Katy Tresco, Ph.D. Doctor of Philosophy in educational Psychology Virginia Burks Salzer, Ph.D. Doctor of Physical Therapy Phillip Palmer, P.T., Ph.D. educational Specialist in School Psychology Richard Allen, PsyD Master of Science in School Psychology Jessica Glass Kendorski, Ph.D., NCSP, BCBA-D
Graduate Program Directors (continued) Master of Science in Counseling and Clinical Health Psychology Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling Lisa Corbin, M.S., LPC
Master of Science in organizational Development and Leadership Jeffrey M. Branch, Ed.D. Master of Science in Public Health Management and Administration Jeffrey M. Branch, Ed.D. Master of Science in Non Profit Leadership and Population Health Management Jeffrey M. Branch, Ed.D. Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences Marcus G. Bell, Ph.D. Master of Science in Forensic Medicine Gregory McDonald, D.O. Master of Science in Health Sciences – Physician Assistant Studies Laura A. Levy, DHSc, PA-C Rebekah Thomas, Pharm.D., PCOM Georgia Campus
The PCOM Alumni Association The PCoM Alumni Association Board of Directors 2020 Council Members
executive Council
Professional Careers Council
William B. Swallow, DO ’79 – President
Prerakkumar Adhuria, PharmD ’17
Paul J. LaPoint, DO ’90 – President-Elect
Jennifer Alvarado, MS/FM ’08
Amanda S. Murphy, MS/PA, ’02 – Secretary
Christopher W. Brown, MS/CCHP ’11
Shanda D. Lucas-O’Dennis, MS/ODL ’09
Madeleine L. Brown, MS/Biomed ’18
Awards Committee Chair Jennifer A. Dwyer, DO ’08 Nominating Committee Chair Melissa Schwartz, DO ’91 – Past President
Krystal N. Carter, MS/CCHP ’10 Ashara Cashaw, PsyD ’13 Rashim Lancit, EdS ’13 Ruark Lanham, MS/ODL ’07 David M. Poponi, PsyD ’09 Preston Williams, MS/PA ’07
Do Council Michael Becker, DO ’87
Trainee Council
James M. Bonner, DO ’86
Sarah C. Hryzak, DO, ’18, Resident
Gretta A. Gross, DO ’97
Samuel Berding, (DO, ’22), Student Rep,
Ricky P. Lockett, DO ’84
PCOM Georgia
Joseph Nyzio, DO ’00
Jazmone Kelly, (DO, ’23), Student Rep,
Ositadinma O. Opara, DO ’99
PCOM South Georgia
William J. Pesce, DO ’89
Jacob Stein, MS/Biomed ’19 (DO ’23),
Elsira M. Pina, DO ’89
Student Rep, PCOM
Howard M. Robinson, DO ’90 Alumni Association Board Representative to PCoM Board of Trustees Dana C. Shaffer, DO ’85 PCoM President & Ceo Jay S. Feldstein, DO ’81 Senior Manager, Alumni Special Services Pamela J. Ruoff, MS
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
The College Seal The Academic Costume
The College Seal
The College seal first appeared in 1925 embossed on the cover of The Synapsis, the College’s first yearbook. Volume One of The Synapsis was published by the junior class of Philadelphia College of Osteopathy in honor of the graduating class of 1925. The first seal incorporated the College motto mens et manus, “mind and hand.” The seal’s origin is unknown, as is its designer. In 1938, Edgar O. Holden, D.O. ’22, dean of the College from 1924 to 1943, and Russell C. Erb, Ph.D., associate dean from 1937 to 1943, proposed and designed a coat of arms. The coat of arms appeared for the first time in the 1938 alumni magazine and featured a heraldic design that applies to the osteopathic profession. The three triangles are symbolic of the three segments of the vertebral column, which has a significant part in the science of osteopathic medicine. The hand emerges from a noble crown indicative of the regal aspect and dignity, as well as the healing powers of the human hand when applied to the art and science of osteopathic medicine. The College motto was retained, and the coat of arms was utilized as the College seal in various motifs through the mid-1980s. An adaptation of the first College seal was re-introduced in 1986. Today’s College seal, similar to the original, was adopted following the College’s Centennial Celebration in 1999. The seal features a centrally placed shield within which are shown a scroll and a flaming torch of knowledge. Immediately above is the College motto, reflecting the College’s osteopathic origin. Uppermost and arranged in a radial pattern are streaks of solar brilliance. Separated from either side of the shield are branches of laurel joined and bound together at the center, close to the base of the shield. These components exemplify teaching, learning and the attainment of knowledge leading to successful careers in the healthcare professions. The name of the College and the year of its founding encircle the seal.
The Academic Costume The academic dress worn today for ceremonial occasions originated in medieval times and stems from the early days of the oldest universities. It is thought that long gowns were first worn for warmth in the cold lecture halls and hoods may have covered the tonsured head (shorn crown) of priests and monks who made up the faculty. One university insisted on the tonsure for scholars. The hoods were replaced by the skull cap, which in turn was displaced by a headgear somewhat like that worn today. The faculty and students of European universities still wear a diversity of academic regalia. However, in 1893, a United States intercollegiate commission dictated a uniform code which has been accepted by most American colleges and universities. The commission devised three types of gown and three types of hood for the bachelor’s, the master’s and the doctoral degrees. All gowns are black except for the associate in arts degree, which is gray. The bachelor’s gown features pointed sleeves and is worn closed; the master’s gown has an oblong sleeve and may be worn open or closed. The gown for the doctoral degree has bell-shaped sleeves slashed with three velvet bars. The front of the gown is faced with velvet and is worn either open or closed. Mortarboards are generally recommended for caps, although soft, square-topped caps are permissible. Tassels may be black or gold and are usually gold for the doctoral degree. The colorful hoods are lined with silk in the color or colors of the institution granting the degree (PCOM’s colors are maroon and gray). The length of the hood varies according to the degree: short for the associate’s and bachelor’s degree, medium for the master’s degree and long for the doctoral degree. In addition, the hood is trimmed with velvet facing representing the academic discipline or school of study. Although there has been much innovation in cap and gown design in recent years, the standard colors representing the various academic disciplines have remained the same. These are: White: Golden yellow: Purple: Lemon yellow: Sapphire blue: Light blue: Brown: Dark blue: Green:
Arts and Letters or Humanities Science Law Library Science Commerce or Business Education Fine Arts Philosophy Medicine—the color of life and growth. (Fellows of the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons wear hoods trimmed with crimson.)
While there is no rule for the position of the tassel, many colleges and universities (including PCOM) request the candidate to wear the tassel on the right side and to shift it to the left at the moment the degree is awarded.