Class Notes

1967

Ronald R. Blanck, DO, Fenwick Island, DE, and Pam Ruoff, PCOM senior manager of alumni special services, continued their journey on the Appalachian Trail toward Maine. Their latest trip centered on hiking the trail in the Lehigh Valley area of Pennsylvania.

1968

James C. Giudice, DO, Haddonfield, NJ, was honored by Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine (RowanSOM) with an endowed scholarship in his name. Dr. Giudice is one of RowanSOM’s founding faculty members. The scholarship will be awarded to a RowanSOM fourth-year medical student who is in the top quarter of the class, has financial need and intends to pursue internal medicine or a specialty within the field.

1970

David H. Ahner, DO, Hazleton, PA, is happily retired after a varied career in psychiatry that included clinical leadership and psychiatric supervision at a medical center, private practice, psychiatric consultations at multiple hospitals, psychiatric work in a community mental health center and state mental hospital, and psychiatric work in a state correctional institution. Dr. Ahner also received lifetime membership to the American Psychiatric Association, the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Society and the Pennsylvania Osteopathic Medical Association.

1972

Matthew F. Gutowicz, Jr., DO, La Quinta, CA, has been semiretired since 2014. Dr. Gutowicz serves on the advisory committee of Radiology International, an organization that conducts CME conferences for radiologists twice a year all over the world. Dr. Gutowicz is also a partner in two restaurants, Pacifica Seafood in Palm Desert and La Quinta Cliffhouse, both of which were named to Open Table’s list of 100 Best Al Fresco Restaurants in America 2019.

1976

Kenneth J. Veit, DO, MBA, provost, senior vice president for academic affairs, dean, PCOM, Lafayette Hill, PA, traveled with his wife, Cindy, and Pam Ruoff, PCOM senior manager of alumni special services, to Sicily, where they bicycled across the island. Dr. Veit is an avid bike rider, enjoying many different trails in the United States and abroad.

1977

Linda P. Augelli-Hodor, DO, Bethlehem, PA, was the recipient of the Pennsylvania Medical Society’s Everyday Hero Award for October 2019. As the award recipient, Dr. Augelli-Hodor was the subject of an article on the Pennsylvania Medical Society’s website titled “Appreciation from Patients Makes Medicine Worthwhile for This Bethlehem, Pa. Physician” (October 3, 2019). Dr. Augelli-Hodor is an internist with Lehigh Valley Physician Group.

1978

Mark Rosenberg, DO, Denville, NJ, was named the 2020 president of the American College of Emergency Physicians. Dr. Rosenberg is chair of emergency medicine at St. Joseph’s Health in Patterson where he also serves as the hospital’s chief innovation officer.

1979

Gordon R. Eck, DO, Honey Brook, PA, was granted the title of fellow from the Center for Christian Leadership on April 12, 2019. Dr. Eck also received a Doctor of Ministry degree from Southern Evangelical Seminary on May 4, 2019. Currently, Dr. Eck serves as medical director of Abraxas Academy, a juvenile detention center in Berks County.

1980

Albert J. Belli, Jr., DO, Voorhees, NJ, was named Inspira Health’s Physician of the Year.

Thomas M. Bozzuto, DO, Albany, GA, was awarded the 2019 Eric P. Kindwall Award of Excellence in Hyperbaric Medicine. The award is given to an individual who demonstrates career-long commitment to hyperbaric medicine through excellence in education, application of therapy, research, forward-thinking and leadership.

David F. Scaccia, DO, Kittery, ME, was inaugurated as president of the Maine Osteopathic Association for 2019–2021 at the association’s annual convention in June 2019. Dr. Scaccia currently practices as a private occupational medicine consultant in Kittery.

1981

Richard Gonzalez, DO, Clermont, FL, was the subject of an article in the West Orange Times and Observer titled “Answering the Call: Rev. Dr. Richard Gonzalez Tends to Both the Spiritual and Physical Needs of the Community” (September 5, 2019). Dr. Gonzalez was ordained as a priest in the Episcopal Diocese of Central Florida.

1982

Gregory S. Gelburd, DO, Charlottesville, VA, wrote an article for the Daily Progress titled “Washington Must Block Prescription Price-Gouging” (March 24, 2019).

Janice A. Knebl, DO, MBA, Fort Worth, TX, was admitted to the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine 2019–2020 Osteopathic Health Policy Fellowship.

1983

Thomas A. Boyle, DO, Elmhurst, IL, earned an executive MBA in healthcare from Saint Joseph’s University.

Howard A. Hassman, DO, Berlin, NJ, merged his company, Hassman Research Institute, with CNS Network to form Apex Innovative Sciences, Inc. The combination allows both companies to coordinate best practices in research and clinical quality, compliance and participant coordination while benefiting from bi-coastal operations. Dr. Hassman serves as chief executive officer of the company.

1984

Mark G. Odorizzi, DO, Williamsport, PA, wrote an article for the Express titled “Limit Screen Time to Get Kids Moving This Summer” (June 2019). Dr. Odorizzi practices at Susquehanna Pediatrics in South Williamsport.

1985

Thomas Costello, Jr., DO, New Hope, PA, was elected to serve as president of the American Osteopathic College of Anesthesiologists.

Kenneth B. Pugar, DO, Spring Valley, OH, joined Clinton Memorial Hospital’s Clinton Neurological Services as a neurologist.

1986

Charles J. Harvey, Jr., DO, Hollidaysburg, PA, earned the Certified Physician Executive certification through the American Association for Physician Leadership. The certification indicates that Dr. Harvey has achieved superior levels of professional excellence and management dedication while also demonstrating effective health care industry knowledge and leadership skills. Dr. Harvey is the medical director of UPMC- Elite Orthopedics.

John M. Kauffman, Jr., DO, Buies Creek, NC, assumed his new role as founding dean of the College of Osteopathic Medicine at Duquesne University.

Scott J. M. Lim, DO, Erie, PA, is serving as the president of the Pennsylvania Academy of Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery. Dr. Lim remains in private solo dermatology practice in Erie and is proud of his son, Geoffrey, who completed a fellowship in Mohs surgery, and his daughter, Lauren, who is a nurse practitioner in dermatology. Dr. Lim volunteers time educating medical students, interns and residents and remains a clinical adjunct professor of dermatology at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine.

1987

Joan M. Grzybowski, DO, assistant professor, family medicine, PCOM, Conshohocken, PA, accepted an invitation to sit on the American Osteopathic Association’s Standards Review Committee.

1988

Marla DePolo Golden, DO, Jacksonville, FL, chair, clinical education, PCOM South Georgia, discussed the relationship between pain and the weather for a segment on the Weather Channel (November 2019).

Martin C. Penetar, DO, Scranton, PA, was honored as Man of the Year at the annual Columbus Day Association Dinner in Peckville.

1989

Dwight T. Kemp, DO, Winchester, VA, joined West Virginia University Medicine Orthopedics at Spring Mills as a board-certified orthopedic surgeon.

Mary F. Pascucci, DO, Sugarloaf, PA, earned an executive MBA in healthcare from Saint Joseph’s University.

1991

Dina F. Capalongo, DO, Exton, PA, earned an executive MBA in healthcare from Saint Joseph’s University.

Michael R. Diaz, DO, Oneonta, NY, joined Oswego Health as an orthopedic surgeon.

Steven T. Puccio, DO, Walnutport, PA, joined Lehigh Valley Physician Group–Hazleton where he will practice at LVPG Orthopedics and Sports Medicine–Health & Wellness Center as an orthopedic surgeon.

1993

Kenan Aksu, DO, Exton, PA, was awarded a U.S. patent for sacroiliac joint implants and implantation methods. Dr. Aksu is an orthopedic spine surgeon in Exton.

Janice Omlor, DO, Lewisburg, PA, was named medical director of anesthesia at Evangelical Community Hospital.

Keith P. Radbill, DO, Marlton, NJ, was named a 2019 Top Doctor by South Jersey Magazine.

Joseph W. Stauffer, DO, Skillman, NJ, was appointed chief medical officer of Inheris Biopharma, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Nektar Therapeutics.

Michelle L. Stoudt, DO, State College, PA, joined Tyrone Regional Health Network as a cardiologist.

1995

Christine M. Cicco-Brown, DO, Parrish, FL, joined Intercoastal Medical Group–Lakewood Ranch II, in Bradenton.

Christine N. McGinn, DO, New Hope, PA, was featured in an article for NBC News titled “ ‘I Just Had to Suppress Everything’: What It’s Like to Be Transgender in a Male- Dominated Field” (June 21, 2019). In addition to being on the staff at two Philadelphia hospitals, Dr. McGinn runs the Papillon Gender Wellness Center in New Hope.

Juk L. Ting, DO, ATP, CFII-MEI, Walnut, CA, accepted a position as an assistant clinical professor and attending physician at City of Hope California. Dr. Ting continues to fly Boeing 747s as a pilot for Kalitta Air.

1997

Daniel R. Taylor, DO, Philadelphia, PA, wrote an article for the Philadelphia Inquirer titled “Doctors’ Words Can Be Wounding—or Healing” (September 17, 2019).

1998

Caitlin S. Clark, DO, Erie, PA, was the recipient of the Pennsylvania Medical Society’s Everyday Hero Award for September 2019. As the recipient of this award, Dr. Clark was the subject of an article on the Pennsylvania Medical Society’s website titled “Erie, Pa. Doctor Is Paving the Way for the Next Generation of Family Physicians” (September 25, 2019). Dr. Clark is a family medicine physician with Allegheny Health Network and serves as program director for the Saint Vincent Family Practice Residency Program.

Deborah Ann Gondek, DO, Penn Valley, PA, earned an executive MBA in healthcare from Saint Joseph’s University.

William J. Strimel, DO, Chesterbrook, PA, earned an executive MBA in healthcare from Saint Joseph’s University.

1999

Ronda L. Broady, DO, Glen Mills, PA, earned an executive MBA in healthcare from Saint Joseph’s University.

Erik I. Soiferman, DO, Horsham, PA, and his practice, Liberty Urgent Care, were awarded the 2019 Best of Philly Urgent Care–’Burbs award. Liberty Urgent Care was also awarded a Women’s Choice Award as one of America’s 100 Best Urgent Care Facilities for the second year in a row.

2000

R. Lee Biggs, DO, Idaho Falls, ID, joined Trident Health Systems as chief medical officer.

William J. Dahms, Jr., DO, Avondale, PA, was named a 2019 Top Doctor in Nephrology by Delaware Today Magazine.

T. Daniel Harrison, DO, Allentown, PA, was appointed vice chairman of the Department of Surgery at Lehigh Valley Hospital in May 2019.

2001

Leo A. Carney, III, DO, Aldie, VA, was promoted to captain in the U.S. Navy on September 13, 2019. Dr. Carney currently serves as the director of clinical programs at Headquarters Marine Corps Health Services.

Thomas S. Dardarian, RES, Silver Spring, MD, was inaugurated as the 2019–2020 president of the American College of Osteopathic Obstetricians & Gynecologists in March 2019.

James J. Flaig, DO, Effingham, IL, joined Sarah Bush Lincoln Evergreen Clinic as a surgeon.

Carl R. Hoegerl, DO, Forest, VA, was admitted to the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine 2019– 2020 Osteopathic Health Policy Fellowship. Dr. Hoegerl was also promoted to assistant dean for Clinical Education at Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine on September 1, 2019.

2002

Peter Ojuro, DO, Utica, NY, joined Tanner Health System as a gastroenterologist.

Tosha L. Rogers, DO, Atlanta, GA, developed a laundry detergent specifically for women’s underwear called Clean and Cute Panty Wash. Dr. Rogers was also interviewed by the blog Bombshell by Bleu in an article titled “Sexual Health with Dr. Rogers” (May 29, 2019).

Carmen Anita Sandridge, DO, East Norriton, PA, earned an executive MBA in healthcare from Saint Joseph’s University.

Bret Smith, MS/Biomed ’98, DO, Lexington, SC, joined Mercy Orthopedic Associates’ Foot & Ankle Center as an orthopedic surgeon.

2003

Mark B. Abraham, JD, DO, Lafayette Hill, PA, became medical director of Temple ReadyCare, comprising four urgent care centers within the Temple University Health System.

Kelly Lee Ecker, DO, Chester, PA, was named NICU director at Delaware County Memorial Hospital in April 2018.

Meg Ann Grigalonis, DO, Glen Mills, PA, was named interim chair of pediatrics at both Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children and the

Sidney Kimmel Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University. Dr. Grigalonis is the first DO and the first woman named to the chair of pediatrics position at either institution.

Keith L. Leaphart, MBA/DO, Philadelphia, PA, was named one of Philadelphia’s Most Influential African Americans of 2019 by the Philadelphia Tribune (September 22, 2019). Dr. Leaphart is president and CEO of Replica Creative, one of the city’s leading design and print firms. Dr. Leaphart also serves as chair of the Lenfest Foundation and sits on the boards of the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau, Boys Latin Charter School, Philadelphia Media Network, the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, the Science Center and the Lenfest Scholars Foundation.

Corey Richard Troxell, DO, Lititz, PA, earned an executive MBA in healthcare from Saint Joseph’s University.

2004

Luis R. Cortes, DO, Fort Myers, FL, earned an executive MBA in healthcare from Saint Joseph’s University.

Kevin Cullen, DO, Myrtle Beach, SC, earned an executive MBA in healthcare from Saint Joseph’s University.

Scott Lionel Girard, DO, Charlotte, NC, joined Novant Health Family Medicine Pine Forest in Oak Island.

Sean Thomas Guinane, MS/ PA, DHSc, associate professor, assistant program director and Philadelphia campus site director, Department of Physician Assistant Studies, PCOM, Mays Landing, NJ, was recognized as a Distinguished Fellow of the American Academy of Physician Assistants. Dr. Guinane earned this recognition for his outstanding contributions to the profession and patient care during his 15 years as a PA.

Lisa D. Held, DO, Radnor, PA, was named chief of anesthesiology at Bryn Mawr Hospital. Dr. Held also continues in her role as system chief of pediatric anesthesiology for Main Line Health and serves on the board of directors for United Anesthesia Services.

Jason Alan Smith, DO, Berlin, MD, joined Atlantic General Health System as a urologist, providing care to patients in Berlin.

Alisa Beth Schiffman, DO, Mount Laurel, NJ, earned an executive MBA in healthcare from Saint Joseph’s University.

2005

Mark A. Gardner, DO, Hermitage, PA, is an orthopaedic surgeon and chairman of orthopaedics at UPMC Horizon and UPMC Jameson.

Marcin A. Jankowski, DO, Philadelphia, PA, earned an executive MBA in healthcare from Saint Joseph’s University.

Trina L. Michael, DO, Reading, PA, earned an executive MBA in healthcare from Saint Joseph’s University.

Jessica M. Osman, DO, Montoursville, PA, wrote an article for the Express titled

“Immunizations Stop Deadly Disease” (April 2019). Dr. Osman also wrote an article for NorthcentralPA.com titled “Beating Back-to-School Stress” (August 15, 2019). Dr. Osman practices at Susquehanna Pediatrics in South Williamsport.

2006

Denise Boggs-Wilkerson, DO, East Orange, NJ, assumed the officer-in-charge duties of Naval Branch Health Clinic Jacksonville on August 30, 2019.

2007

David Wesley Brock, MS/PA, Lehi, UT, was recently named advanced practice provider director of pediatric cardiovascular services at Intermountain Healthcare. In September 2019, he traveled to the Middle East with a team of pediatric cardiovascular specialists to operate and care for underserved children suffering

from congenital cardiac deformities. During the trip, the team crossed into Gaza and provided pediatric cardiothoracic surgical care where none formally exists.

Mackenzie A. Mady, DO, Orwigsburg, PA, joined Lehigh Valley Physician Group–Family Medicine in St. Clair.

Erik G. Polan, DO, Moorestown, NJ, wrote an article for the Philadelphia Inquirer titled “Q&A: What Is the Latest on Superbug Candida Auris, and How Can I Protect Myself?” (May 31, 2019).

2008

Jay D. Bhatt, DO, MPH, Chicago, IL, was one of 21 senior health care leaders chosen to join the Aspen Institute Health Innovators Fellowship’s fifth class and the program’s network of healthcare entrepreneurs and innovators from across the United States. Dr.

Bhatt will embark on a two-year fellowship that will strengthen his leadership and challenge him to develop new approaches to improve the health and well-being of Americans. On June 27, 2019, Dr. Bhatt joined former Presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton on stage at the Presidential Leadership Scholars graduation, where they discussed the work they are doing to address veterans’ issues and challenges in health care. Dr. Bhatt serves as senior vice president and chief medical officer for the American Hospital Association in Chicago.

Peter F. Bidey, DO, MSEd, FACOFP, assistant professor of family medicine, PCOM, Haddonfield, NJ, wrote an article for Runner’s World titled “Help! Why Do I Sweat So Much?” (July 22, 2019).

2009

Holly S. Blankenship, DO, Murfreesboro, TN, joined the Tennessee Family Solutions Kennedy Clinic in Smyrna. The primary care clinic specializes in serving adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Daniel S. Fabius, DO, Newtown Square, PA, was named to the Who’s Who in Health Care list by SouthJersey.com. Dr. Fabius is the vice president of clinical informatics at Continuum Health.

Monique A. Gary, MS/ Biomed ’05, DO, Wyncote, PA, was featured in an article for the Philadelphia Inquirer titled “What’s Next for LGBTQ Equality? Trans Rights, Coalitions with Allies and Political Power” (June 7, 2019) in which she discussed the need to create equity in health care. Dr. Gary is a breast surgical oncologist and medical director of the Grand View Health/Penn Cancer Network Cancer Program in Sellersville.

Erin Riley Narewski, DO, Philadelphia, PA, won first prize in Temple Health’s first annual writing contest for her piece titled “Room 201.” Dr. Narewski is an assistant professor of pulmonary and critical care medicine at Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University.

Dr. Narewski’s essay was published on philly.com as part of an article titled “3 Philadelphia Doctors Reflect on the Patients They’ve Lost and the Moments that Stay with Them” (May 16, 2019).

Kelly E. Williams, DO, Waverly, PA, was named a 2019 Top Physician Under 40 by the Pennsylvania Medical Society.

Christopher D. Young, DO, Cary, NC, completed five years of active duty in the U.S. Air Force and started a fellowship in comprehensive endocrine surgery at Duke University.

2010

Nicole Burgio, MS/CCHP, Manalapan, NJ, performed “XOXO Moongirl,” an autobiographical solo aerial and aerobatics show, in June 2019 with Almanac Dance Circus Theatre. The show originally premiered in June 2018 and toured in Mexico.

Nicholas Wayne Ligato, DO, West Chester, PA, joined the Visiting Nurse Association of Greater Philadelphia as the medical director of hospice and palliative care in September 2019.

David M. Mahon, DO, West Chester, PA, earned an executive MBA in healthcare from Saint Joseph’s University.

2011

Brian J. Blair, DO, Voorhees, NJ, was named a 2019 Top Doctor by South Jersey Magazine. Dr. Blair practices at Jefferson Health Gastroenterology in Cherry Hill.

Andra L. Fee-Mulhearn, DO, Meadville, PA, was named a 2019 Top Physician Under 40 by the Pennsylvania Medical Society.

Nicholas J. Mulhearn, DO, Hilliard, OH, was named a 2019 Top Physician Under 40 by the Pennsylvania Medical Society.

Umang Patel, DO, Levittown, PA, was named a 2019 Top Physician Under 40 by the Pennsylvania Medical Society.

Rachael L. Polis, DO, Narberth, PA, was named a 2019 40 Under 40 by the Philadelphia Business Journal.

2012

Maurice A. Alston, DO, Galloway, OH, joined Parkridge Medical Group as an interventional cardiologist.

Karly R. Bishop, DO, Valdosta, GA, joined Franklin Health Farmington Family Practice.

Robert C. Greer, V, DO, Lake Park, FL, assisted with relief efforts in the Abaco Islands after Hurricane Dorian ravaged the Bahamas in September. Dr. Greer was interviewed about his experience in an article for the Palm Beach Post titled “Hurricane Dorian: As Some Bahamians Struggle in the Storm’s Wake, Experts Suggest How to Help Now” (September 11, 2019).

Ratnesh N. Mehra, DO, Fairfax Station, VA, joined Michigan Head & Spine Institute, where he specializes in minimally invasive robotic and endoscopic neurosurgery.

Christopher J. Zambrano, MS/ Biomed ’08, DO, Whitestone, NY, joined Southcoast Physicians Group Cardiovascular Surgery, practicing out of their locations in Fairhaven, Fall River and Providence, MA.

2013

Melissa M. Bertha, DO, Scranton, PA, joined Commonwealth Health’s primary care team, through which she is a member of the medical staff at Commonwealth Health Moses Taylor Hospital.

Robert L. Bowers, DO, PhD, Brookhaven, GA, coauthored a paper in Stem Cells Translational Medicine titled “Functional Outcomes Following Microfragmented Adipose Tissue Versus Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate Injections for Symptomatic Knee Osteoarthritis” (July 21, 2019).

Christine H. Cho, RES, Reading, PA, was named medical director of Tower Health Plastic Surgery and MedSpa.

James E. Huang, MS/PA, Honolulu, HI, was promoted to the rank of major in the U.S. Army on June 1, 2019. Dr. Huang currently serves on active duty as a physician assistant in the Department of

Surgery at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu.

Lindsey L. Perea, DO, Wilmington, DE, joined Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health Physicians Trauma & Acute Care Surgery.

Nicole L. Thompson, MS/Psy ’10, EdS/Psy, Philadelphia, PA, was featured in an article on ideamensch.com titled “Nicole Thompson: Creator of The Urban School Psychologist” (July 10, 2019). Ms. Thompson started Reverse the Adverse, a trauma-informed care training designed for educators and mental health professionals that work with schoolaged urban students in grades K-12. The goal of the training is to raise awareness of the impact that adverse childhood experiences and trauma can have on urban students and to teach strategies to better serve this vulnerable population.

Sarah E. Werner, MS/PA, Conshohocken, PA, wrote an article for Contemporary Pediatrics titled “The Power of Shared Decision-Making” (April 29, 2019).

2014

James W. Cutcliffe, DO, Opelika, AL, joined the Surgical Clinic in Opelika as a surgeon.

Thea Gallagher, PsyD, Langhorne, PA, was featured in an article on philly.com titled “Artificial Intelligence Tool Can Detect PTSD from Patient Voices, Study Suggests” (April 22, 2019).

Jason Milton, DO, New Albany, OH, wrote an article for the DO titled “How I Lost 90 Pounds in Under a Year in Residency” (April 10, 2019).

Paul D. Minkovich, DO, Philadelphia, PA, joined St. Mary Surgical Associates in Langhorne, where he specializes in laparoscopic surgery.

2015

Alicja K. Ignatowicz, DO, Langhorne, PA, started Holy Redeemer’s osteopathic manipulative treatment program. Dr. Ignatowicz divides her time between practicing family medicine and OMT.

Lauren E. Kramer, DO, Warminster, PA, was featured in an article for Pennsylvania Medical Society’s Pennsylvania Physician Magazine titled “What Does the Next Generation of Women Need to Know About the Practice of Medicine?” (Spring 2019).

Jillian M. Ventuzelo, DO, Shillington, PA, was named a 2019 Top Physician Under 40 by the Pennsylvania Medical Society.

2016

Jenna DiLossi, PsyD, Philadelphia, PA, wrote an article for the Philadelphia Inquirer titled “When a ‘Healthy Lifestyle’ Becomes a Problem” (May 30, 2019). Dr. DiLossi is the cofounder of the Center for Hope & Health, a treatment center that offers specialized evidence-based treatments for eating disorders and anxiety disorders.

Elvira Jasarevic, DO, Dacula, GA, is a family medicine physician with Northeast Physician Group Hamilton Mill in Dacula.

Aaron M. Weaver, DO, Wilmington, DE, joined St. Francis Healthcare as a family medicine physician.

2017

Gregory B. Giles, DO, McKinney, TX, was named the 2019 Osteopathic Resident of the Year in Military Medicine by the American Osteopathic Foundation and Association of Military Osteopathic Physicians. Dr. Giles is currently completing an ophthalmology residency at Brooks Army Medical Center in San Antonio.

2018

Andrew G. Canakis, DO, Boston, MA, is a resident physician at Boston University Medical Center. Dr. Canakis presented results from a randomized clinical trial at the Digestive Disease Week Conference in San Diego, CA. The presentation centered around improving preventative health measures in individuals with inflammatory

bowel disease by using an electronic health record patient portal to remind patients to receive vaccines. Dr. Canakis’s research was also profiled in Gastroenterology Consultant in an article titled “4 Questions About Improving Vaccination Rates in IBD” (June 2019).

Giselle I. Pineiro, DO, Plantation, FL, was the subject of the Moultrie Observer’s “Resident Spotlight” (June 18, 2019). Dr. Pineiro is in her second year of residency in Colquitt Regional Medical Center’s Georgia South Family Medicine Residency Program.

Nima Yazdanpanah, DO, Lawrenceville, GA, won the American Academy of Pain Medicine Prize in the 2019 MIT Grand Hack for Best Assistive Tech & Rehab Hack to Improve Lives of Patients with Chronic Pain. Dr. Yazdanpanah is currently taking a gap year and has secured a full-time research position through a New York University anesthesiology pain fellowship at NYU Langone Center for Treatment and Study of Pain through which he will participate in regular clinical rotation and observerships through NYU Sports Medicine. Dr. Yazdanpanah was also hired as a special fellow and practicing physician with NYU Langone Health at NYU School of Medicine Emergency Department and City of New York affiliated hospitals, a position historically offered to PGY4 level fellows, while Dr. Yazdanpanah has had only one year of training.

JENNIFER KING, DO ’02

Developing Hawaii’s Pediatric Sports Medicine Program

by Meghan McCall

“You should always feel nervous about things you care about,” says Jennifer King, DO ’02, recalling her 2008 move to Hawaii—a state that, at the time, had no physicians in her specialty of pediatric sports medicine.

In 2008, Dr. King’s husband, Jeremy, DO ’02, was interviewing for a pediatric gastroenterologist position at Kapi’olani Medical Center for Women and Children. When asked about his ties to the mainland, Dr. Jeremy King mentioned that his wife would need a job as a pediatric sports medicine physician if he were to accept the position.

“One of my future partners was far-sighted enough to see the value of adding a pediatric sports medicine physician to his division, and my husband and I were both offered jobs at Kapi’olani,” explains Dr. King.

Today, as Kapi’olani Medical Center’s section chief of pediatric orthopedics and pediatric and adolescent sports and dance medicine physician, Dr. King has led the development of a formal pediatric sports medicine program for the state, now working alongside two other pediatric sports medicine physicians.

“I’m most proud of developing this program in Hawaii so that we can serve our community and keep our population active,” says Dr. King.

In addition to treating dancers and traditional athletes, Dr. King often treats surfers, paddlers and hula dancers, who present their own unique types of overuse injuries.

Beyond working traditional clinic hours five days a week, Dr. King dedicates her weekends to sideline coverage for football, serves on the Sports Medicine Advisory Council for the Hawaii High School Athletic Association, and conducts in-services for dance programs in the community. Recently, she was involved in implementing the statewide Hawaii Concussion Assessment and Management Program for high school athletes. As Dr. King balances everything, she values the most important thing that PCOM taught her.

“In a world where there is so much physician burnout, I am thankful to PCOM for always valuing the whole person—whether it’s your patients, colleagues, staff, family or yourself. I’m grateful to be surrounded by a supportive family, colleagues and staff that keep me loving what I do. To this day, my friends from PCOM have been my source of strength and encouragement,” says Dr. King.

PCOM Alumni Association Introduces New President

William Swallow, DO ’79, began his term as president of the PCOM Alumni Association in January 2020. Dr. Swallow is the sole physician at a community-based outpatient clinic in Mount Union, PA, for the Altoona VA Medical Center. He will serve as the president of the Alumni Association for two years.

“I’m really looking forward to the opportunity to serve the College in this capacity and to increase my involvement with the College,” says Dr. Swallow.

A loyal donor to PCOM for many years, Dr. Swallow has maintained connections with his classmates, fellow alumni, faculty and staff through events hosted by the Alumni Association. Additionally, Dr. Swallow is in the process of completing his second PCOM degree in forensic medicine, giving him a unique perspective as an alumnus. Having experienced classes that utilize technology and video, Dr. Swallow feels he is able to relate to both current students and young alumni as well as his DO classmates from 1979.

“I’m very appreciative of the education and experiences I found at PCOM,” says Dr. Swallow. “Serving as president will allow me to give back and serve our thousands of alumni. It’s a pleasure to continue maintaining ties with the College.”

ON A PERSONAL NOTE

Rouenne Joie S.J. Abasolo, MS/Biomed ’08, DO ’12, and Brian Seeley, DO ’12, Lewisburg, PA, welcomed a baby boy, Elliott Cruz, on February 25, 2019.

Ronda L. Broady, DO ’99, Glen Mills, PA, married Patrick E. Sheppard in Wilmington, Delaware, on April 12, 2019.

Frank J. DiRoma, DO ’14, Hazlet, NJ, married Kimberly Cantoni on May 11, 2019, at the Church of St. Rita in Staten Island, New York.

Kelly Lee Ecker, DO ’03, Chester, PA, gave birth to a daughter, Lila, on January 30, 2019.

Charles N. Krome, DO ’99, Somers Point, NJ, married Jacqueline Vanikiotis on October 14, 2018.

Shoemaker weddingArnold S. Lincow, DO ’76, DAAPM, Philadelphia, PA, is happy to be a grandfather of 10.

Michael J. Moriarty, Jr., DO ’15, West Hartford, CT, married Kristen Kelly on April 27, 2019, in Philadelphia. Their wedding was featured in the Philadelphia Inquirer (June 21, 2019).

Joshua R. Mundorff, DO ’11, and Gina Verdetti, DO ’11, Wyomissing, PA, welcomed a daughter, Lyla Grace, on May 21, 2019. Lyla joins big brother Xander, born on March 3, 2017.

Sravan Panuganti, DO ’15, Cherry Hill, NJ, and his wife, Praneeta Bremjit, gave birth to a son, Rishan Koti, on September 4, 2019.

Kathleen Shemanski, PsyD ‘16, Carbondale, PA, married James Moro on June 8, 2019, at the Inn at Woodloch in Hawley.

Whitney E. Shoemaker, DO ’99, Ormond Beach, FL, married Sean D. Ryan on September 23, 2018, in the backyard of their home overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway in Ormond Beach. Dr. Shoemaker was escorted down the aisle by her sons, Gunnar and Tay.

John S. Stevens, Jr., DO ’73, Allentown, PA, celebrated his 51st wedding anniversary with his wife, Anita. Dr. Stevens credits his wife’s love and support for helping him through his time as a student at PCOM.

IN MEMORIAM

Roland H. Allard, DO ’76, York, PA, September 28, 2019

Stuart C. Baer, DO ’63, Philadelphia, PA, June 10, 2019

Patrick J. Burns, DO ’80, Kalispell, MT, November 4, 2019

Mark S. Cooperstein, DO ’72, Orlando, FL, September 8, 2019

Mary DiBiagio, DO ’83, Ellwood City, PA, October 13, 2019

Urban DiPasquale, DO ’66, Conshohocken, PA, January 12, 2020

Michael Jon Feinstein, DO ’74, Coronado, CA, March 22, 2019

Allan N. Fields, DO ’67, Sunny Isles Beach, FL, June 9, 2019

John J. Fleitz, DO ’52, Cherry Hill, NJ, June 2, 2019

James J. Giliberto, DO ’47, Ocean City, NJ, June 11, 2019

Michael J. Holt, DO ’58, Kentwood, MI, June 24, 2019

Kenneth P. Heist, DO ’64, Haddon Heights, NJ, October 20, 2018

Robert K. Hippert, DO ’76, Fleetwood, PA, September 24, 2019

Edward E. James, DO ’58, Coraopolis, PA, October 7, 2019

William J. King, DO ’63, Deptford, NJ, July 16, 2019

Paul F. Maranzini, DO ’80, Springfield, PA, October 1, 2019

Alan J. Miller, DO ’62, Boca Raton, FL, September 23, 2019

Harry E Murtiff, DO ’70, Waterville, OH, November 5, 2019

Martin S. Neifield, DO ’46, Audubon, PA, August 14, 2019

Willard Leo Noyes, DO ’59, Thompson, PA, July 22, 2019

John F. Quigley, DO ’62, Ambler, PA, June 19, 2019

Harry G. Rae, DO ’80, Wellfleet, MA, August 28, 2019

William J. Saks, Jr., DO ’69, Burdett, NY, August 6, 2019

Melvyn Sarnow, DO ’66, Palm City, FL, July 26, 2019

Robert J. Shields, III, DO ’78, Jacksonville, FL, September 30, 2019

James P. Soulges, DO ’55, Wyndmoor, PA, September 8, 2019

Robert Stull, DO ’78, Bethlehem, PA, November 30, 2019

Gilbert B. Tabby, DO ’58, Rydal, PA, December 22, 2019

William F. Trakat, DO ’77, Chestertown, MD, September 23, 2019

Alex D. Wargo, DO ’78, Plantation, FL, July 6, 2019

DONALD H. THOME, DO ’59, Mifflin, PA, January 9, 2019 | A graduate of the Class of 1959, Dr. Thome went on to a distinguished 43-year career, first as a general practitioner, then as an eye, ear, nose and throat specialist. From 1975-1990, Dr. Thome served as chair of the Department of Ophthalmology and assistant dean at PCOM. In 1990, he and his wife moved to their hunting cabin on Shade Mountain in Juniata County where Dr. Thome had ophthalmology practices at Mountain View Medical Center and Henry Optical, both in Mifflintown.