February 2017 Issue - Vista View by Rocky Vista University

Award Winning Newsletter

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AACOM

VISTA VIEW

February 2017 Newsletter

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RVUCOM Diversity Enrichment Week Exploring other cultures through dance, activities, and discussion

Inside: Map and Compass Skills at Castlewood Canyon

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Gratis Aid: Filling Needs in Somaliland

Another Year Gone: Employees Celebrate Holiday Season

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Christopher Canario, OMS II, (left) comforts a patient in a simulated airplane scenario.

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RVUCOM Diversity Enrichment Week

RVU Receives Award for Military Support

Treating In-Flight Emergencies

Chill the Mind, Body, and Soul

RVU Trains with U.S. Ski Team Docs

Keeping Up with Admissions

Innovations in Eye Surgery

RVUCOM-SU Updates

Map and Compass Skills at Castlewood Canyon

Get to Know RVU Staff: Andrew Stevens

Gratis: Filling Medical Needs in Somaliland

Campus Tidbits

Another Year Gone: RVU Employees Celebrate Holiday Season

How Do You Save Money as a Student?

Achieving New Heights

Welcome to New Faculty and Staff

Alumni Association Updates

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Dancing for a Good Cause at Winter Charity Gala

RVUCOM to Host Second Annual Ultrafest

Want to see even more photos from each RVU event? Visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/RockyVistaUniversity!

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The Power of Perspective by Clinton E. Adams, DO, FACHE, President and CEO

Over the holidays, Paula and I took our daughter, Joia, to the Big Apple where we ushered in the new year at Radio City Music Hall. The Rockettes were at their finest as they presented "Christmas Spectacular" (and spectacular it was!). Interestingly, Joia, a fourth-year osteopathic medical student at Western University, remarked, "Sometimes you forget how much you miss as a medical student." She was referring to the dazzling intrigue of the arts, the big city activity, and the beauty of the rural countryside. This allowed her to put into perspective the long hours, the preparation for national boards, the residency matching, the intensity of attention paid to patients assigned during clinical rotations. This led to a conversation of resilience. The elements of resilience combine a healthy dose of de-

layed gratification, increasing selfconfidence, and a belief that you are making a difference for someone. The joy of bringing new life into the world or quietly holding a hand as your patient passes from this life to the next. Yes, medicine continues to be a calling to professional behaviors, personal growth, and satisfaction. In spite of all the issues surrounding the complex industry of healthcare delivery, you—the physician and the health care team—must step back and savor the good you do and make time to visit the Big Apple or to trek in the Rockies to put it all in perspective! I wish you all the best in 2017.

Saying Goodbye to Sweet '16 by Thomas N. Told, DO, FACOFP, dist., Dean and CAO

From my viewpoint, 2016 seemed to be a little sweeter and more successful than other years, perhaps because it was a leap year? Leap years are traditionally said to have charm, mystique, and even luck attached to them. Looking back, 2016 was unconventional in many ways. I would even argue that it was a year that favored the underdog. In 46 BC, Julius Cesar decreed that one day be added to a calendar year periodically, a year that was divisible by four. Society soon singled out "leap years" as possessing special powers. In Ireland, St. Bridget once complained to St. Patrick about how women had to wait for men to propose marriage to them; St. Patrick offered women one day every four years to propose—which day did you think he picked? February 29th, of course. Benjamin Franklin discovered electricity in 1752 and gold was discovered in California in 1848—both leap years. The big clincher for me in 2016 was the Chicago Cubs winning the pennant after nearly a century of trying. That had to definitely happen on a leap year! To Cubs fans and Irish women of yore, the leap year is indeed a lucky one. But some would say there is very little that is special or lucky about it. The Battle of the Little Bighorn was fought in 1876 and the Titanic sunk in 1912—both leap years. Indeed, 2016 was marked by "Brexit" in June and a very contentious US presidential campaign which seemed to affect everyone. Election night sent half the country into perpetual pet therapy and the other half into believing there may be something to this leap year thing. For RVU, though, 2016 was sweeter than other years and filled with many new and exciting developments. It was a year of change: a year for coming of age after a maturing process that has spanned 10 years—and is surely destined

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to continue. Talent and hard work were the main ingredients of our success, but there was a bit of good fortune that accompanied this year, as well. This was the year RVU began the process from a "one college" university to a budding health sciences institution. The launch of a Masters of Biomedical Sciences program and the hiring of a leadership team to create a Physician Assistant program made this a reality. In 2016, RVUCOM received the nod from the Commission for Osteopathic College Accreditation for an additional location in Utah. Together, we formulated a hiring plan that will nearly double the faculty of the University and expand our reach into the Utah health care education system. We have begun tackling the challenges of delivering a seamless curriculum that will occur on both campuses, utilizing the latest in teaching methods and technology. Who would have thought all of that could happen when we graduated our first class on May 19, 2012—but then, wasn’t that also a leap year? Below the towering red rocks in the heart of Utah’s Dixie, we are on schedule, on budget, and poised to receive the first class on July 25th. Much work remains still to be done before that opening day. Michael Jordan once said, "Talent wins games, but teamwork and intelligence win championships." We have many talented people here and, during 2016, we had a group of outstanding individuals join us from other locations. We have assembled a truly championship-grade team to tackle the job of launching these new programs. But it doesn't hurt to have a little luck of the leap year mixed in for good measure.

Students, faculty, and staff celebrated diversity over the course of a week with the goal of ultimately becoming more socially conscious physicians in a world made up of diverse populations.

Salsa Dancing

Rock Painting

Henna "There have been so many fun activities and interesting ideas...that I have never been exposed to before. I especially enjoyed the dancing, crafts, and discussions between my fellow diverse peers. The committee went above and beyond to show... that we appreciate each others' differences!" Nisa Fraser, OMS II

Bhangra Dancing "I always enjoy [learning] different dances because I appreciate the origin and significance it can have to the people of its culture. I enjoyed how Diversity Week involved a dance class of different dances. [It] was a fun way to...break down some barriers. Learning how to salsa, as well as how to do a Middle Eastern dance, was definitely an enjoyable experience that helped me appreciate the diversity we have at RVU." Harmanjot Singh, OMS I

Islam Presentation Vista View

Generational perspective Cultural conversation

Dabka dancing Origami

Dr. Sarah Hemeida Talks Immigration

RVU's Diversity Committee Vista View

S/Heroes Discussion Henna

"In today's society—which is more divided than ever before—it is crucial to...showcase our diversity. When we understand each other’s differences and perspectives, we can move towards tolerance and inclusion. This was my motivation to lead Diversity Enrichment Week. The Committee worked together to design a week [of experiencing] cultures through dance, art, food, and conversations. The activities and discussions allowed us to understand and initiate the process towards getting rid of unconscious biases. This process of deeper thinking will make us better physicians and better citizens of this earth." Gurpreet Kaur, OMS II

Treating In-Flight Emergencies

Chances are you’ve been on a flight and someone has fainted or become ill. According to an article in New England Journal of Medicine, in-flight medical emergencies occur on 1 in every 604 flights. About 2.75 billion passengers fly on commercial airlines yearly, which works out to nearly 50 a day in the United States alone.

In December, students in the Global Medicine Honors Track practiced simulations of in-flight emergencies they might encounter on one of their many trips. The presented scenario was a "flight" from Kathmandu to Hong Kong. The hallway of the Simulation Center was transformed into a jetliner, complete with windows, jet noise piped in over the speakers, and simulated patients (both standardized patients, as well as simulator dummies). "Of course, no flight on 'RVU Air' is without drama," said Becca Fletcher, Program Coordinator for Clinical Assessment and Simulation. "Shortly after takeoff, several passengers started experiencing medical difficulties (which ranged from minor to life-threatening). Our students rose to the challenge and assisted the sick passengers until we could safely land." The students were limited both by the physical confines of the aircraft and by the amount of supplies and medications available to them. "The simulation made us aware of the difficulties of responding to an airline emergency," said Christopher Canario, OMS-II. "We were forced to use emergency bags that we were unfamiliar with, treat the patient in a confined space, and deal with worried family members. This was an invaluable experience and I'm very grateful for the hard work that went towards making it happen."

RVUCOM Assists U.S. Ski Team Docs

Not a ski season goes by without several reports of injuries sustained while on the slopes. No matter one's level of skill or caution, accidents can occur at any time and with a wide range of outcomes. For professional skiers and snowboarders, inadequate medical care can not only result in further injuries, it can also potentially mean the end of one's career. To better assist the United States Ski Team and other professional winter sport competitors, physicians train at the annual Medical Emergencies in Skiing and Snowboarding (MESS) Course. The goal of the MESS course is to train physicians about evaluating trauma and managing common conditions at winter sport competitions. RVU students and faculty were on-hand again this year to assist with the training. After a series of classroom lectures and indoor hands-on scenarios—including a presentation by Anthony LaPorta, MD, FACS, Course Director for the Military Track—participants practiced realistic scenarios on the slopes of Beaver Creek Birds of Prey. Several of these outdoor scenarios involved RVU students playing the role of the injured skiers. The injuries ranged from concussions and dislocations to more serious injuries such as a pelvis fracture and a hemorrhage. For some scenarios, the physicians were able to practice using the Cut Suit, allowing the scenarios and treatments to seem more realistic.

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Innovations in Eye Surgery

Learning by Cutting Gathered in the Surgery Simulation Center (below), students from the Military Track crowded around a cadaver. Dr. Anthony LaPorta instructed the students on the basics of an exploratory laparotomy and how to identify and tie off tissue. They also practiced breast surgery, as well as cricothyrotomies. "The cadaver lab was one of the best learning experiences I've had so far in medical school!" said Renato Rapada, OMS II. "We've mostly studied anatomy, pathophysiology, and clinical medicine in isolated classroom chunks. This lab truly integrated what we've learned from our first three semesters of school by allowing us to see, feel, and practice surgical procedures in a controlled environment. It was also very humbling to realize that we still have so much more of medicine to learn (or relearn from the first year!)." Amanda Ammentorp, OMS II, agreed, "Being in the military track has afforded me so many opportunities to prepare for my future in the Air Force. The cadaver lab allowed me to become more confident in my surgical skills, [enhancing] my experience here at RVU."

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Steve Jobs once said, "Innovation is the difference between a leader and a follower." While he might not have been talking about medical education, it's certainly applicable. Nowhere else is innovation as apparent as with the ongoing collaboration between RVU and Strategic Operations (STOPS), producer of the Cut Suit. Along with Anthony LaPorta, MD, FACS, Course Director for the Military Track, Robert Enzenauer, MD (a pediatric ophthalmologist in Colorado), and several RVU students, STOPS has begun developing a new trainer which focuses on the eye region (pictured at bottom). In January, Michelle Lu, OMS II, and Penelope Herder, OMS II, held a workshop to test the trainer. The goal of the workshop was two-fold: to teach the students an important medical procedure, the lateral canthotomy and cantholysis (in which an incision is made to the tendons around the eyelid, relieving pressure from an orbital hemorrhage), as well as to determine whether the trainer would be comparable to the pig models which are typically used for training. "This particular technique," said SD Lu, "is useful for eye traumas in the field and is done to stabilize patients until they are able to reach a higher standard of care at a hospital." For their study, they walked students through the procedure, then polled them on the differences between the two methods. "We were also very lucky to have physicians come and help provide valuable feedback towards the project." SDs Herder and Lu will continue gathering data from the surveys and determining which model is preferred to further developments of the trainer.

Map and Compass Skills at Castlewood Canyon

Amid the yellow leaves of autumn, several hikers with bloody faces and arms waited patiently in Castlewood Canyon to be rescued. Eventually, students from the RVUCOMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rural and Wilderness Medicine Honors Track (R&WM) emerged from the woods, armed only with maps, compasses, and stethoscopes. The students approached each patient, assessed the injuries, then either treated or transported them to a waiting ambulance at the top of the hill. Among the wounded was a hiker with a bleeding head injury, another hiker with an internal abdominal injury, and a woman in premature labor. The annual Orienteering course is an elective for second-year students in the R&WM track. The goal of the course is to teach students how to locate potential patients in isolated areas, using only a map and compass as guides. This proves to be an important skill for students who intend to work in or near remote areas in their future practice. "This experience...was extremely beneficial in practicing navigation skills," said McKenna Abercrombie, OMS II. "Utilizing these skills appropriately allowed us to locate our 'patients,' some of whom required immediate medical intervention. For example, I unexpectedly became a 'forest OBGYN!' It was great practice and a fantastic learning experience!" South Metro Fire Rescue participated in the training by providing instruction to the medical students, as well as teaching them about transporting patients. "I was able to perform a cricothyrotomy on a mannequin!" said Charles Haverty, OMS II. "It was my first time performing the procedure...and [performing it] in the middle of the woods made it exciting. Activities like these make me thankful that I am a part of the [R&WM] track. Most of the first two years of medical school are spent reading...but R&WM allows me to get out and do activities like triage and orienteering. It reminds me that all of the studying is worth it."

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Gratis: Filling Medical Needs in Somaliland Many medical students can point to a single moment in their lives that made them want to help others. Austin Forbes, OMS I, however, seems to have been born with that urge. In 2012, he was living in Uganda and working at a children's home when his partner, who was working in the country as a teacher, suddenly contracted typhoid. SD Forbes tried one medicine after another without success: "I needed Azithromycin, but there were several varieties from different countries." Her condition worsened. Finally, his father couriered over the medicine that had been manufactured in the United States; after taking the medication, she immediately improved. This experience opened his eyes to the medical challenges faced by underserved countries. "There were medications available but they could be mixed incorrectly or just wouldn't work." Meanwhile, in South Sudan, Austin’s mother, Patricia, was working at a school for girls. She discovered that when the young girls began menstruating, they were unable to come to school due to the lack of feminine hygiene products. This often led to the girls missing out on their education and, for some, dropping out of school altogether. Because of these experiences, the mother and son were driven to found Gratis Humanitarian Aid Network, a non-profit organization that would provide medical supplies and equipment to places that are difficult to reach and incredibly underserved. "Our first project," said SD Forbes, "provided hundreds of reusable feminine hygiene kits to girls in the South Sudan school and in an orphanage in Uganda," enabling them to focus on their education. From there, Gratis widen its scope. After reading Half the Sky: Turning Oppression into Opportunity for Women—a book written by New York Times columnist, Nicholas D. Kristof, and Sheryl WuDunn—their focus turned to the plight of women in Somaliland, the fourth poorest country in the world. In the book, Kristof and WuDunn wrote of a woman named Edna Adan and her extraordinary efforts with the Edna Adan Maternity Hospital in Somaliland (a hospital which primarily treats women, as well as trains them to provide healthcare). Ms. Adan is the former Foreign Minister of Somaliland Republic and had also served as Minister of Family Welfare and Social Development. In addition to being the founder of the hospital, she is also the director. Upon meeting Ms. Adan, SD Forbes said, "I didn’t realize the magnitude of the person I was meeting until afterward when I saw photos of her with Lyndon Johnson." When SD Forbes showed up at her hospital asking how he could help, Ms. Adan immediately put together a thick book of statistics, ranking the items she needed most. Over the next three years, Gratis worked steadily to make her wish list a reality. Through private donations and a partnership with Advocates for World Health (an organization that gathers unused medical supplies and equipment), Gratis filled a 40-foot shipping conGratis is in need of the following: tainer with diagnostic equipment (such as an ultrasound machine and an EKG machine), hospital beds, surgical equipment, nebulizers, incubators, and more. • Monetary donations SD Forbes was in Somaliland when the container arrived. The need for equip• Unused medical supplies ment and supplies was so great that as he scrubbed in to assist on a surgery, he • Hospital equipment noticed items from the container were already being used.

How can you help?

GratisAid.org

Now, Gratis is focusing on birthing kits: disposable kits that will aid with childbirth which, in Somaliland and other parts of Africa, often occurs on dirt floors and in unsanitary conditions. These kits are produced by Ayzh, a company in India that employs illiterate girls and women, providing them with a livable income. The kits cost as little as $3 each. Their goal is to raise the money to purchase between 20,000 and 30,000 birthing kits to send to the Edna Adan Maternity Hospital. As for SD Forbes, he plans to travel to Lebanon and Iraqi Kurdistan over spring break to see what needs Gratis might be able to fill in those regions. He also hopes to return to the Edna Adan Maternity Hospital in his third or fourth year for a rotation. Photos provided by Austin Forbes.

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Another Year Gone:

RVU Employees Celebrate Holiday Season

In the midst of the holiday hustle and bustle at RVU, faculty and staff took some time out of their busy schedules to enjoy each other’s company and celebrate the holiday season at the annual Holiday Appreciation Luncheon, held at the Heritage Eagle Bend Golf Club in Aurora. Lights and snowflakes were draped from the ceiling, while the tables were decorated with whimsical centerpieces. Employees gathered for the luncheon which included a delicious catered buffet, exciting prize drawings, and delightful carols from the Original Dickens Carolers (of which our own Becca Fletcher, Clinical Assessment and Simulation, Program Coordinator, was previously a member). Becca shared her thoughts on the afternoon, "This year’s holiday party was a smashing success! The gorgeous venue and great food helped everyone get in the holiday spirit. Fun was had by all as we celebrated the year’s successes, talked about our exciting future with the new campus opening, and wrapped up with lots of exciting prizes." Among the prizes were airline tickets, lift passes to Loveland Ski Resort, gift cards, tickets to the Denver Performing Arts Complex, a gift certificate for a spa, a membership to the Denver Nature and Science Museum, in addition to many smaller prizes. The grand prize winner for the day was Brad Ellis, Information Services Manager, who won a stay at an Estes Park resort. Thank you to Peter Freytag, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer, for emceeing the event. Also, thank you to the Event Planning Committee for all of their hard work in putting together this wonderful event!

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Dancing for a Good Cause at Winter Charity Gala "Take care of yourself." "Don't forget to have fun." "Relax!" Medical students often hear this advice from faculty and former students. When an exam is fast approaching or when they are studying for hours on end, however, it can be difficult to remember this advice. For this reason, the annual Winter Charity Gala is a hit among students who are able to dedicate a night (finally!) to relaxing and having fun. On February 4th, the Gala was held at the Denver Athletic Club downtown, in the Grand Ballroom.With dancing set up on one side of the room and casino tables on the other, there was plenty to keep their minds off of their rigorous schedules. But it wasn't all frivolous: all of the proceeds of the Galaâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;a total of $4,500!â&#x20AC;&#x201D;were donated to Family Tree, an organization that focuses on ending child abuse, domestic violence, and homelessness.

"It was great to have everyone get together and forget about school...it was a stress reliever! Thank you to Nisa (Fraser), Aaron (Jones), Christina (Velasco), and Erin (Voelschow) for putting it together!" Michael Poser, OMS II

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RVUCOM to Host Second Annual Ultrafest Ultrasound machines are changing the way doctors examine and diagnose their patients. Last year, Lane Thaut, DO ‘16, and Brian Russ, DO ‘16—inspired by a day-long ultrasound workshop at University of California-Irvine called Ultrafest—collaborated with University of Colorado School of Medicine, as well as the Colorado Ultrasound Interest Group (USIG) to host the state's first Ultrafest . With Daniel Coates, OMS II, and Codee Champney, OMS II, now at the helm, RVU will be hosting this year’s Ultrafest event on March 18th on campus. Workshops will include hands-on probe practice, state of the art phantom technology, live models, exposure to cutting-edge ultrasound machines, and world renowned ultrasound physician instructors. The keynote speakers will be Wilma Chan, MD, EdM, and Rachel Liu, MD, FACEP, FAAEM. Dr. Chan (right, top) is the inaugural Director of Ultrasound Education at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, as well as being an Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine. Her academic interests include design thinking in educational spaces, social media, and technology utilization. Dr. Liu (right, bottom) is the current President of the Academy of Emergency Ultrasound, a branch of Society for Academic Emergency Medicine. She is also the Chair-Elect for the Ultrasound Section of American College of Emergency Physicians. She is championing efforts at Yale to build a longitudinal point-of-care ultrasound curriculum and loves to work on designing interactive elements for changing educational delivery. Ultrafest will take place on March 18th from 8-4 p.m. The event is free and a light breakfast and lunch will be provided. To register, go to www.cousig.org/ultrafest.

What is the RVU Writing Center? Headed by Alexis Horst, Writing Center Instructor, the RVU Writing Center integrates with the curriculum through written assignments and reflections. On an individual basis, the Center supports faculty and students alike through one-on-one and small group meetings, offering guidance across all stages of the writing process. Through audience and genre-centered instruction, specific feedback, and access to resources, the Writing Center assists writers in the development of effective written communication, assignments, and professional documents. Mission: The RVU Writing Center employs collaborative discussion and writing instruction to guide writers through all stages of the writing process and to equip writers from all backgrounds with the agency and writing skills necessary to enhance their careers and lives. Values: • Writing as a means to communicate, advocate, and understand ourselves and the world • Autonomy that comes from education and empowerment of students • Collaboration with students and faculty to improve writers, not simply writing • Respect for students, faculty, and the writing process, which develops through practice and commitment • Diverse ideas and the impact of individual life experiences on one’s perspective • Dedication to achieving excellence in all aspects of writing Vision: • Facilitating achievement of competencies related to attitudes, skills, knowledge and behavior • Leading the way in osteopathic medicine curriculum in writing incorporation and assessment

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Providing Guidance with the Careers in Medicine Speaker Series

The Careers in Medicine (CIM) Speaker Series is a valuable tool in assisting students in residency exploration, providing information about specialties such as competitiveness of the field, the length of training, ideal board scores, and salary. "Our goal with the speaker series," said Zeerak Haider, PhD, Director of Student Life, "is to provide students exposure to multiple specialties at one time. We hope the wisdom and life experiences of our guest speakers will guide our students to a specialty that is a good 'fit' for them."

The Student Affairs Department hosted the first CIM Speaker Series on December 9th. Guest speakers included: Dr. Oralee Ekberg (Obstetrics and Gynecology); Dr. Sarah Hemeida and Dr. Laurie Patton (Family Medicine); and Dr. S. Andrew Tucker and Dr. Tiemdow Phumiruk (Pediatrics). "There was a common theme of how fundamentally a career in medicine—especially at the time of residency—affects one's life," said Dane Rune, OMS-I. "From the value placed on personal relationships to general well-being, the importance of understanding one's self was underscored by the physicians' own experience. This has driven me to [be more intentional about] choosing a specialty that is in line with my own core values."

Chill the Mind, Body and Soul When you think of medical school, relaxation is not likely to be the first thing that comes to mind. The Student Affairs Department is hoping to change that. "[We] wanted to provide the RVU community with opportunities to de-stress during a challenging time of the year and so the idea for DeStress Fest was born," said Dr. Zeerak Haider. "This was the first event of its kind at RVU and was meant to cater to the mind, body, and soul." DeStress Fest was created to provide a much-needed break for the entire RVU community, a time to relax and enjoy the company of fellow students, co-workers, and friends in a fun, stress-free environment. The event included therapy dogs, massages, guided imagery sessions, rock painting, coloring, Zumba, and a balloon release. "The greatest joy for our team was witnessing the RVU community leaving refreshed and ready to finish their year strong," said Dr. Haider. As a result of DeStress Fest, several of the Denver Pet Partners that participated in the event were extremely impressed with RVU and have since volunteered to participate in Pet Therapy on a more regular basis. Beginning in February, teams from Denver Pet Partners will be in the library on the second and fourth Mondays of each month. Dillon and Darby, RVU's own beloved Pet Therapy dogs, will continue their regular Friday visits. The Student Affairs Department would like to thank the DeStress Fest sponsors— the Wellness Committee and Student Government—and all of the volunteers who made this event a success.

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Keeping Up With Admissions The Douglas County Career Connect Fair is an annual event that hosts exhibitors with a wide range of career information and introduces them to local eighth-graders (totaling over 5,000!) who are encouraged to explore a variety of careers prior to entering high school.

Meet RVUCOM's New

Ambassadors!

Several RVUCOM students volunteered at the event: Iris Hardarson, OMS I; Joseph Ptasinski, OMS I; Megan Carlson, OMS I; Esther Gallaway, OMS II; Syey Featherstone, OMS II; and Michelle Lu, OMS II. The student physicians explained to the middle-schoolers about certain medical procedures. For example, they discussed the nastrogastric tube, why it's used, how to place it, and what makes it different from a feeding tube. "The student doctors did an excellent job explaining career choices to the eighth graders. I was very impressed with their knowledge of all health care professions, as well as their patience and encouragement when talking to the children," said Cyndi Windecker, Admissions Counselor.

Ambassadors for RVUCOM represent the school to prospective students, physicians, and various other individuals and organizations. They communicate information about our school: its curriculum, its programs and tracks, and its culture. They are essentially the face of RVU. Candidates for the ambassador positions were chosen by faculty, staff, Fellows, and current Ambassadors, based on academic performance and attitude. The chosen candidates represent a variety of backgrounds, experiences, interests, and skills. They will represent the school while meeting with prospective students, physicians, and legislators. Pictured above L-R: Dane Rana, Brady Hansen, Joshua Bradford, Elizabeth Stoll, Maggie Jiang, Sara Andrews, Dennis Turnbull, Thomas Schermoly, Phillip Bennett, Mary Rountree, Jonathan Singh, Cicily Hummer, Alexandra Rakestraw, Ashley Alden, Roxana Valles, Peter Huang

Introducing Colorado's Physician Assistants to RVU Faculty and staff from the RVU Physician Assistant Program attended the Colorado Academy of Physician Assistants (CAPA) conference, which was held in Copper Mountain, Colorado. CAPA represents Colorado's physician assistants, promotes the profession, and furthers the education of its members. With a background of snowy slopes covered in skiers, conference attendees were introduced to RVU's proposed PA program, which is the newest developing program in the state. Debra Nickell, PhD, MBA, PA-C, Program Director for Physician Assistant Studies, and Cathy Ruff, MS, PA-C, Associate Program Director for Physician Assistant Studies, fielded questions from preceptors, as well as potential faculty and students. CAPA participants also attended a reception and silent auction, at which the RVU PA program donated a muchsought-after Williams and Sonoma "Kiss the Cook" gift basket. Three additional drawings were held at the RVU booth, giving away University swag like scrubs and t-shirts for several lucky participants.

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Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine Southern Utah

T Minus 4 Months

Topping Out RVUCOM-SU Outside of the construction industry, the term "topping out" may be unfamiliar. It originated from a Scandinavian religious rite, where placing a tree on top of a new building to appease tree-dwelling spirits that were displaced by its construction. Over time, it became a custom in the United States to place a small tree on the last beam of a building to celebrate this accomplishment (and appease the spirits, of course).

Interior framing, roofing, and weathering on the main building were completed in January, according to Chuck Flood, Lead Project Manager. Construction of the on-campus housing continues with mechanical, electrical, and plumbing starting to be installed within the two buildings. The Utah campus construction is on schedule and recently received a cover and three-page spread in Utah Physician magazine. RVUCOM-SU is still actively interviewing students, faculty, and staff.

On November 18th, RVUCOM-SU hosted a Topping Out Ceremony for its new campus. A crowd of people gathered around the last structural beam to sign their names, people who played a part in the construction, design, and development of the campus which included representatives from Shaw Construction, OZ Architects, Ivins City Council, and RVU faculty and staff. The tree and an American flag were secured onto the beam. Then everybody watched as the beam was hoisted up in the air and into its place on the building. Upon completion of the building, this signed beam will be remain visible on the ceiling of the library.

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Introducing RVUCOM-SU's New

Visiting Utah's Capitol

Executive Advisory Council RVU announced appointments to its Executive Advisory Council, a group that will provide guidance and advice regarding community relations and other matters to the leadership and faculty of RVUCOM-SU. The Council includes: • Stan Albrecht, PhD, former President, Utah State University; • Timothy B. Anderson, JD, Jones, Waldo, Holbrook & McDonough, PC; • R. Lane Beattie, President and CEO, Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce; • Mindy Benson, Vice President for Alumni and Community Relations, Southern Utah University; • B. Grant Bishop, MD, Dermatologist and Professor Emeritus, University of Utah School of Medicine. • Eric Leavitt, CEO, Leavitt Group; • Donna L. Milavetz, MD, CEO, On Site Care Clinics; • Derek Miller; President and CEO, Utah World Trade Center; • Warren A. Peterson, DO, Dermatologist and Osteopathic Educator; • Richard G. Whitehead, DDS, former Administrator, Dixie State College and Southern Virginia University.

RVU administrators including Dr. Clinton E. Adams, Dr. Thomas N. Told, Dr. David Park, and Timothy Anderson of the Executive Advisory Council met with the State of Utah Governor’s Education Advisor, Tami Pyfer, on November 22nd.

What's Up Down South? During a presentation on January 12th at the What’s Up Down South annual economic summit in St. George, Utah, Dr. Thomas Told and Dr. David Park presented to over 1,000 local business leaders. Dr. Told and Dr. Park gave an update on the campus construction and an overview of the mission and vision of the RVUCOM-SU campus.

L-R: Dr. David Park, Dr. Richard Whitehead, Dr. Stan Albrecht, Dr. Warren Peterson, Timothy Anderson, Mindy Benson, R. Lane Benson, Derek Miller, Eric Leavitt, and Dr. Clinton Adams. Not pictured: Dr. B. Grant Bishop and Dr. Donna Milavetz.

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Get to Know the RVU Staff Andrew Stevens Job Title: Campus Safety and Security Supervisor; Clery Act Compliance Coordinator • First worked at RVU as a contract Security Officer ever since the ribbon cutting in July 2008; hired by RVU and promoted to Security Supervisor in 2012. • Married to Shawna and has a four-year-old daughter, Aria Isabella • "We enjoy camping, fishing, hunting, hiking, ATVing, watching football, and family time." Who inspires you? Kids: they are innocent and full of aspirations. The simplest things make them happy and they can make you smile instantaneously by doing and saying the funniest things. What is one thing in this world you are most proud of? I was part of the first of two research teams with Dr. Anne Chin (professor at University of Colorado Denver) that focused on stream characteristics and influences on the Waldo Canyon fire scar area (Camp Creek) back in 2012. I helped lead the research by surveying and collecting stream samples of macroinvertebrates, salinity, dissolved oxygen, temperature, discharge rates, etc. Our research and findings contributed to a publication and additional research grants. What's the greatest bit of advice you have received? "Patience is a virtue," from my dad. Also, "The two greatest moments in your life are when you are born and when you figure out your purpose in life," from Rafael Moreno, my Sustainable Development professor. What's your secret talent? Carpentry. I have a fully functional wood shop (that’s my 'man cave') at my house, complete with surface planer, wood lathe, drill press, table saw, band saw, bench mount sander, and a build/paint/stain station for Aria. I’ve [created] everything from turning custom lamps to entertainment centers, coffee tables, and picture frames.

What are your department's FAQs?

Where is the Lost and Found? In the Security office on the first floor.

What would you like to be known for? Helping others.

Help! The building is locked and my ID badge is inside! Go to the north entrance and the security officer will verify your identity. If it's after hours, push the call button on the door.

If you could have a superpower, what would it be? The ability to fly. Wouldn’t it be awesome to soar free and unrestricted?

Can you help me obtain a new parking pass? Yes, we have a simple form to fill out, available at the Security office on the first floor. Can you let me into my locked office? Yes, we can.

What's the last book you read? Dirt: The Ecstatic Skin of the Earth by William Bryant Logan. Everyone could learn a little more about where everything we have came from. What is your favorite place in the world? I enjoy being in the mountains quite a bit—somewhere deep in the forest, miles away from civilization.

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In Memoriam Hans Machula, OMS IV July 7, 1982 - January 8, 2017

During his time at RVUCOM, SD Machula was an active member of the community, participating in the Internal Medicine Club, the Pediatrics Club, and RVU's chapter of the Christian Medical and Dental Association (CMDA)â&#x20AC;&#x201D;even serving for a time as the CMDA Secretary. He also had strong interest in medical research, as evident by his participation in Research Appreciation Day. "Hans was a treasured member of our community and he will be greatly missed. In addition to being a strong student, he was a kind, caring, and compassionate individual." - Dr. Thomas Told, Dean of RVUCOM. An online memorial has been created for Hans at ForeverMissed.com/hans-machula where you can celebrate his life with stories and photos.

Jonathan R. King, DO, JD

January 21, 1951 - November 12, 2016 Dr. King was an Associate Professor of the Department of Primary Care at RVUCOM from 2011 to 2016. During his time at RVUCOM, colleagues describe him as a kind person and an excellent educator, dedicated to teaching and to his students. Prior to coming to RVUCOM, Dr. King served as the course director for clinical medicine at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. Additionally, he practiced emergency medicine and internal medicine for 22 years. Already an accomplished osteopathic physician, he also earned his Juris Doctor degree in 1986. After leaving RVU, Dr. King accepted a position at Lincoln Memorial University DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine. "We extend our heartfelt sorrow and sympathy for the loss of a friend, colleague, mentor, and medical educator." - Dr. Thomas Told, Dean of RVUCOM. To honor the memory of Dr. King, consider making a donation to the American Diabetes Association.

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Campus Tidbits â&#x20AC;&#x153;The soldier above all others prays for peace, for it is the soldier that must suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war.â&#x20AC;? -Douglas MacArthur RVU celebrated Veterans Day on November 11th with a cake and special recognition of the school's veterans. Clinton Adams, DO, FACHE, President and CEO, addressed the gathering, provided inspirational remarks and noted that RVU is one of the most military friendly of civilian medical schools. He recognized the veterans present, as well as the families of veterans, and offered a reminder to "thank a veteran, thank the family of a veteran, and thank all who touch a veteran's life for we are all Americans."

Before leaving for winter break, faculty and staff were treated to a holiday potluck brunch. In addition to the tasty food, there was an Ugly Sweater Contest (winner: Dr. Heather Ferrill), random raffles, a dessert bake-off (winner: Erica Whatley), and a gift exchange. As a special treat, RVU's a capella group, the SOAP Notes (pictured above) performed several holiday songs.

On January 19th, medical students from RVUCOM and University of Colorado School of Medicine (as well as community health care providers) gathered at the State Capitol building. Among those participating were members of CUSOM's White Coats for Black Lives and the Protect Our Patients group. As part of a national movement, they stood in silence for three minutes to represent the 30 million Americans who will lose health care if the Affordable Care Act is repealed. Speakers called for improvements of the ACA and no repeal without a replacement.

At the 7th Annual Chili Cookoff, six employees competed in a soup-and-chili competition. The dishes were judged on the presentation, flavor, originality, and nutritional value. The first place winner was Tina Hefty (pictured at right), Collection Development Librarian, followed by Teri Coe, Administrative Assistant to the Physician Assistant Program, in second place, and Joanie Douglas, Administrative Assistant to Clinical Affairs, in third place. Thanks to all who participated!

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Campus Tidbits Melissa Davidson, Testing Center Coordinator, and her husband Zach welcomed Daisy Maribelle on December 12th as the newest addition to their family. She has blonde hair and blue eyes. She weighed 3 lbs. 15 oz and was 16 1/4 inches long. Little Daisy was a preemie and is still in the NICU, but she is growing and making excellent progress. They hope they can bring her home before her threemonth birthday. She loves bath time and reading with her mom and dad. Melissa and Zach say they are super proud of their "little fighter".

Laurie Bezjian, OMS-III, and Patrick Wallace, OMSIII, were engaged on October 15, 2016 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. SD Wallace proposed inside a hot air balloon and they enjoyed a balloon ride over Albuquerque near the Sandia Mountains to celebrate! They will be married in Spring 2018 in Southern California. The couple met just before starting their first year at RVU. Congratulations SD Bezjian and SD Wallace!

Retraction: in the November 2016 issue of the Vista View, the article, "RVU Honors the Military with Appreciation Ceremony" incorrectly states that Dr. Adams is a Vice Admiral (Ret.). His correct title is Rear Admiral (Ret.).

Student Ho liday Party

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How do you save money as a full-time student? Emily Elliott-Hemler, OMS II "This year I have been crafting a lot and...sell what I make to the students at RVU. This Christmas, I made wood slice ornaments and sold over 300. [Also,] I was gifted some craft stuff, so my current endeavor has been making gold foil vintage anatomy prints and greeting cards. It has been fun!"

Marshal Ash, OMS III "My wife and I use a 'Zero-Based Budget,' taught by Financial Peace University. Essentially, it starts with our monthly income (or loan disbursement divided monthly for those without spousal incomes) and we build our budget backward off that. We start with essentials like rent/utilities/groceries/gas; after absolutes are worked in, we go onto budgeting savings, debt pay-down, then the 'wants' (Netflix, coffee shops, restaurants, travel/vacations) are worked in on a priority list until the budget reaches zero. Once the budget reaches zero, nothing more is added regardless of how badly I want something. If you don't have the money, don't spend the money! Every dollar is spoken for in some budget item. Practically, we use the Mint app for budgeting as it automatically draws in information from our bank accounts (including transactions). It has been extremely helpful for us as we've worked through these years in med school." James Bates, OMS III "Meal prepping—cooking one meal for the week and eating leftovers—is a great way to have good food and save money (it's just work). [To] earn a little extra money, the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP) is the best way. Tutoring was a good way to make more money: help other students and do something you’re good at. I am also a web presence manager for a couple small businesses; it's a great way to have a little extra money for entertainment."

Cristina Cosner, OMS III "Specifically for third-years, we save money by sharing the test prep books needed for shelf exams. It works great in groups of three or four, where we are likely to not have the same rotations at the same time. [Also,] cooking at home! It has saved me a ton over the years."

Jaclyn Harris, OMS IV "I found meal prepping to be a great way for me to save both time and money during my first two years of medical school. Either once or twice a week, I would cook up a nutritious meal (often, chicken and fresh vegetables or soup/chili) that could feed a giant family and divide it into several Tupperware containers to eat for lunch at school or dinner at home. This saved me from running for fast food during lunchtime at RVU or spending a fortune on multiple sugary snacks every day."

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Achieving New Heights Highlighting the Accomplishments of Our Faculty, Staff and Physicians in Training

William Cairney, PhD, Assistant Dean for Graduate Medical Education, presented at the Osteopathic Medical Educators and Leaders (OMEL) Conference, which took place in Tampa, Florida in January. His presentation, "The Habit of Change for Integrating Scholarly Activity into Your Work," challenged old behaviors and ways of thinking in implementing an effective scholarly activity program for medical students and particularly residents. The OMEL conference addressed issues such as student and physician burnout, best practices for providing competency-based education, learning tools, and new opportunities created by the single accreditation system. Sarah Curtis Lopez, DO, Assistant Professor of OMM, published research in the International Journal of Osteopathic Medicine, titled "The role of ultrasound and preparation in first-year medical students' learning lumbar spine anatomy and diagnostic skills." This study examined the role of ultrasound and preparation in first-year medical students' learning to identify and palpate lumbar spine landmarks. The hope is that these results can assist in the design of future studies and workshops on ultrasound in preclinical education. Sarah Edgerton, OMS III, co-authored a paper which was published in Acta Neuropathologica: Pathology and Mechanisms of Neurological Disease. The paper, titled "Localized cortical chronic traumatic encephalopathy pathology after single, severe axonal injury in the human brain," studies Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), a neurodegenerative disease associated with mild impact traumatic brain injury from contact sports. For their research (which was conducted by the Center for Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, in conjunction with the Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences), they

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studied a human model with severe axonal injury, analyzing the brain tissues specifically for chronic neurodegenerative changes and observing a subset of cases with β-amyloid plaques, with results suggesting that even a single major episode of axonal injury may contribute to the distinct pathology of CTE over time. Anthony Garzone, OMS IV, recently put his medical skills to use, assisting in rescuing a young girl who had been struck by and trapped under a vehicle while walking to school. SD Garzone, who was nearby when the accident occurred, leapt into action and, along with other witnesses, physically lifted the car off of the girl. Then, utilizing skills he attributed to learning at Cut Suit Week (an annual, immersive series of simulations created by RVUCOM's Military Medicine Track), he quickly took control of the situation, kept the crowds of hysterical children and parents away from the victim, then calmly stabilized and assessed her for potential injuries until the EMTs could arrive. The girl—who he later learned was the niece of an employee at the rotation site where he was working—has since made a full recovery. While SD Garzone claims to have done "very little lifesaving medicine" and minimizes his role in helping the girl, the RVU community applauds his heroic actions and quick thinking in an emergency. Fernando Gomez, MD, Professor of Pathology, presented his research, titled, "'Why is Our Baby's Head Small?' The Pathogenesis of Microcephaly Resulting from Zika Virus and Other Congenital Infections," at the First International Conference on Zika Virus. The conference, held in Washington, DC, gathered experts from such fields as public health, epidemiology, virology, and entomology, as well as from institutions involved in diagnostics, vaccines, and vector control. Several second-year RVU students—Tim Chilton, Zeke Clemmens, and Alisha Cluff—participated in an extensive data-gathering task force, compiling a list of Colorado family medicine residency trained graduates practice locations

Achieving New Heights Highlighting the Accomplishments of Our Faculty, Staff and Physicians in Training

for the Colorado Association of Family Medicine Residencies (CAFMR). The data collected by the students was presented to Colorado State Legislators (who are part of the Joint Budget Committee). "[The students] put in a lot of extra time to capture this needed data [that CAFMR] was unable to do on their own," said Dr. David Ross, Director of the Rural and Wilderness Medicine Track. Anthony LaPorta, MD, FACS, Course Director of the Military Track, served as a Faculty Volunteer for the Medical Student Program's MS1-MS3 Roundtable Sessions during 2016's Clinical Congress. This meeting is an annual gathering to discuss the fields of science, socioeconomics, and medical education with the goal of keeping "physicians abreast of the current status of the art and science of surgery." The Medical Student Program is aimed at medical students who are considering a career in surgery. Katie Rose-Borcherding, OMS III, received the Student Doctor of the Year (SDOY) award for Rocky Vista University. The SDOY award is presented to the student from each COM who most exemplifies service, professionalism, and core ideals typical of an outstanding student physician. As Dr. Told, Dean of RVUCOM, said, "[SD Rose-Borcherding] exemplifies all of these positive traits and will represent RVU well in this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s national competition." SD Rose-Borcherding is an OPP Fellow and a member of the pediatric and osteopathic clubs on campus. She is also in the Global Medicine Honors Track.

will now be eligible to receive the scholarship, as well. This will be done via anonymous entry. Additionally, through Dr. Ross' concerted efforts, the CMS EF received a donation of $1,000 from the Denver Osteopathic Foundation. For more information on this scholarship, visit the Student Financial Services page of the RVU website. Andrea Thomas, OMS II, was awarded a grant by the SOMA Foundation Grant Program in the amount of $500. This grant focuses on projects involving mental health and substance abuse by medical professionals, residents, and students. The funding will be used to create a new "Tranquility Room" on campus with a calming and cozy ambiance for yoga, prayer, meditation, and relaxation. J. Preston Van Buren, OMS III, and Jeffrey Wake, OMS III, presented a poster at the Society for Federal Health Professionals Conference in November. The research, "Exploring the effect of light hue on contrast sensitivity, visual acuity, and color vision," studied the differences in contrast sensitivity, visual acuity and color vision under various light hues and conditions. The goal of the research is to draft guidelines for appropriate lighting use in low-light tactical settings. The poster was co-authored by Anthony LaPorta, MD, FACS, Course Director for the Military Track.

David Ross, DO, FACEP, Director of the Rural and Wilderness Medicine Honors Track, was accepted to join the board of the Colorado Medical Society's Educational Foundation (CMS EF). This is a scholarship committee that, until recently, was only open to students of University of Colorado School of Medicine. With the admission of Dr. Ross to the board, incoming RVUCOM students

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RVU receives award for military support Every year, the most Military Friendly® companies and schools are announced by Victory Media, chosen because of they demonstrate positive employment and education outcomes for veterans and their families. While RVU has received this designation consecutively for four years, this is the first year that the Gold Award has been introduced. The Gold Award showcases the "best of the best" of these schools and companies, highlighting not just "Are you military friendly?" but rather "How military friendly are you?" RVU has been named as one of the recipients of the Military Friendly® Gold Awards. "[The award recipients] offer exceptional examples of what it means not just to build a program that meets federal requirements, but one that serves the military and veteran community from classrooms to careers," said Daniel Nichols of Victory Media. RVU has among the highest percentage of students on military scholarship of any civilian medical school, with 88 students currently on the Health Professions Scholarship Program (HPSP). Twelve VA students and two students in the reserves are also currently enrolled in the University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine. Clinton E. Adams, DO, FACHE, President and CEO of Rocky Vista University and a former Rear Admiral of the United States Navy, stated, "RVU has established a strong tradition of nurturing and preparing graduates for military medicine. The Military Medicine track provides the scholarship students an opportunity to experience combat casualty care and simulated surgical skills, with greater emphasis on the professionalism required of a military officer and physician. Our graduates are extremely successful in the military residency match and we are extremely proud of their commitment to serve our Nation."

Welcome to our New Faculty and Staff! Jerry Armstrong, MSA Director of Human Resources Originally hailing from Newport News, Virginia, Jerry's primary family residence is in Ivins, Utah (site of the new RVUCOM campus!). He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in interpersonal communication from Old Dominion University, as well as a Master of Science in Administration degree in interpersonal and public communication from Central Michigan University. Since then, he has completed post-graduate work at Kent University in organizational communication and business, as well as receiving certification in Human Resources Studies from Cornell University. Jerry has thirty plus years of experience in human resources and operations, working in diverse domestic and global companies including higher education, consumer products, medical nutrition, financial, and retail organizations. For the last six years, he served as Director of Human Resources for the Virginia Community College System. "Jerry brings a wealth of experience to RVU," said President Clint E. Adams. "I am confident that Jerry will help move us forward as

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we continue to grow and will be a perfect fit for RVU!" Jerry moved to Colorado to serve as RVU's Director of Human Resources: "I have the opportunity to support faculty and staff that educate future physicians that will provide care for underserved populations and those who serve our country." Also, his wife, Brenda, lives in Ivins, so moving to Colorado has allowed him to be a "little closer to home". Love of higher education is a common theme in the Armstrong household: Brenda is an assistant professor at Dixie State University in Utah. "I enjoy sharing the higher ed life with my wife. We enjoy the beauty and history of this great country we live in, especially the outdoors in my home state of Virginia and the parks in Utah." Together, they have a son who is a senior at Brigham Young University. Jerry’s favorite pastime is "wading in a stream on a sunny day, casting with my spin rod in hopes of catching the big trout." He recently began playing pickle ball, which is a sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. Welcome, Jerry!

Welcome to our New Faculty and Staff! Anthony Bennett Security Officer Anthony is originally from Cameron, North Carolina. He moved to Colorado at a young age with his mom and brothers: "My mom loved the mountains and wanted a change of scenery so we moved to Colorado." After high school, he attended Pickens Technical College, where he learned about several subjects, from general electronics and computer service to automotive technology. Anthony took his first security job in 2012 at Elitch Gardens in downtown Denver. He then took a position with Securitas. He has been working in the security field for five years; three of those years have been as a weekend lead: "I was the officer in charge for the weekend shift. Any problems or concerns, I was the guy to handle it.” It was the desire for a new experience that brought Anthony to RVU and, almost immediately, he noticed something special: "Since day one, [there is a] family-type feeling you get from working here." You will find Anthony working security on campus during the graveyard shift, Saturday night through Wednesday morning. Family is everything to Anthony: "Family always comes first. I am a single father of an amazing three-year-old boy. His name is Adrian and he is my entire life." During his free time, he enjoys drawing and is passionate about cars. "I grew up building drag strip cars and cars that look slow but are really fast," he said. In fact, he is even the president and founder of a car club called Toxic Street Kings. Welcome, Anthony! Susan Chenoweth Accounts Payable Clerk II Susan grew up in Lakewood, Colorado and currently resides in Franktown. She has an Associate of Applied Sciences degree in accounting from the Community College of Aurora. "I worked in restaurants for twenty years, then put myself through college, [earning] an Associate’s Degree." Susan has worked in the aerospace and health care industries. For a short time, she also worked as a Rural Route Carrier for the US Postal Service in Franktown.

She chose to come to RVU based on, "the great group of people that I will be working closely with on a daily basis. I am very proud to be part of an organization that is teaching young men and women to be doctors." When Susan is not working, she can be found walking the many miles of dirt roads in Franktown with her husband and their dog, Rusty. "Even though [Rusty] is getting older, his favorite thing to do is walk...my husband and I are more than happy to follow along." Susan also loves to cook: "I am a whiz at copying a recipe and often making it better." Susan once rescued a baby squirrel whose mother was missing: "I named him Walnut, bottle fed him, let him sleep in my bed (always snuggled between my neck and shoulder), and kept him as a pet for about a year. I released him at my parents' house (where I found him) once he was too wild to be kept as a pet any longer. My parents looked after him and could even recognize his offspring based on how bushy their tails were, just like Walnut!” Welcome, Susan! Ian George, PhD, MA, MS Assistant Professor of Structural Medicine Dr. George, originally from Springfield, Virginia, began his education at the University of Florida, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in anthropology. He then earned a Master of Arts degree in physical anthropology and a Master of Science degree in biomedical science, both from Florida Atlantic University. Finally, he earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in pathobiology, with a focus in neuroanatomy from the University of Missouri. Before coming to RVU, Dr. George taught gross anatomy and neuroanatomy as a Graduate Teaching Assistant at several universities including Florida Atlantic University, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, and the University of Missouri. He also worked as a Postdoctoral Research Instructor of Anatomy at Stony Brook University. Coming to RVU, Dr. George couldn't be happier with his new home: "I am really excited to live in Colorado and to be part of the anatomy team here at RVU, teaching future physicians all the wonders of the human brain." He has been married for just over a year to his "amazing wife" and, together, they enjoy hiking, camping, and explor-

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Welcome to our New Faculty and Staff! ing nature. In his free time, he admits that he still enjoys playing with Legos, as well as building things and taking them apart again: "My mom says it’s probably why I became an anatomist." Welcome, Dr. George! Molly Hunsberger Primary Care and Shadowing Administrative Assistant Molly was born and raised in Colorado and has spent the last 30 of her 35 years in Parker. She does, however, love to travel: "I went to Guatemala to visit my sister who was a student teacher there at the time." She also traveled to Russia, Malaysia, Australia, and India with a group called Youth with a Mission. Molly has an Associates of Applied Sciences degree in veterinary science, a Bachelor of Science degree in communications, and certifications in leadership and conflict management. She is currently working on a Master degree in non-verbal communication from Regis University. Her previous experience includes twelve years as a Certified Veterinary Technician and five years as a Department Assistant at Arapahoe Community College in the Emergency Medical Services Department. She is excited to be at RVU: "I love medicine and love to work with students." She has been involved with RVU since 2008 and even worked with the first two incoming classes in the Standardized Patient Lab. "I already knew the environment, the culture, and that RVU was a great place to work!" She is the youngest of three children, has an orange belt in Karate, and loves animals: "I have two cats named Sophie and Sasha." Welcome, Molly! Naveed Ismail, MD Surgery Residency Program Director Dr. Ismail’s hometown is Columbus, Ohio. He came to Colorado in 2003 because of the environment; both the mountains and the people: "I felt I would fit in better here...and it just seemed like a better place to live." Initially, Dr. Ismail wanted to be a

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pilot. He studied aeronautical engineering and received a Bachelor of Science degree in aviation from Ohio State University. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree at Ohio State University, as well, then went to the University of Florida for a general surgery residency. He also completed a one-year program in Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation at the University of Chicago. Over the years, Dr. Ismail ran a general surgery practice in Kansas City. After moving to Colorado, he began working at Sky Ridge Medical Center and still serves as a general surgeon there. He discovered RVU after operating on a faculty member. They discussed graduate medical education and she referred him to Dr. Christopher Unrein, who "recruited" him. Dr. Ismail enjoys teaching residents and deeply values medical education: " I wanted to get back into teaching...I always thought I’d end up in an academic career." He is married to Aliya and has three children. He enjoys traveling; most recently, he has traveled to Spain and Germany. He also visits his relatives in Saudi Arabia. He still loves to fly in his free time and has recently begun piloting again, flying small airplanes out of Centennial Airport. Welcome, Dr. Ismail! Gina Marzulla Marketing Coordinator Gina is a Colorado native. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in marketing from the Metropolitan State University of Denver. Most recently, Gina worked for Desks Incorporated as Marketing Specialist and Graphic Designer. She also worked as Marketing Manager for Sooper Credit Union and as Assistant Operations Supervisor for First Bank. After interviewing at RVU, she thought it would be a great fit and a great place to work: "I knew RVU was where I wanted to be after my initial interview with Kelli Petersen. She came in and the first thing she said was, 'You’ll have to excuse the fake blood on my hands and feet.' She had been taking photos and creating wounds for a training exercise. That’s the best opening for an interview I’ve ever experienced!" Gina owns a photography business called Little Treasures Photography & Design. As an animal-lover, she is an Artist Member of HeARTS Speak, which pairs artists and photographers with animal shelters in their area; they donate professional services to the shelters in hopes of getting animals

Welcome to our New Faculty and Staff! adopted. "I love animals, especially dogs," she said. "I spend a lot of weekends doing dog photo shoots!" She is married with one son, Morgan, who is an Eagle Scout and a freshman at the University of Northern Colorado, where he is majoring in biology (with a minor in education). They also have an 80-pound boxer named Scooby. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking and camping with her family, as well as reading. A little-known fact about Gina: "I can spin a basketball on my finger for a really long time!" Welcome, Gina! Caroline Morris-Stahl Administrative Assistant for the Testing Center Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Caroline graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in English composition and literature from Eastern Illinois University. She has also studied health information technology from DeVry University. Upon graduating, she served as a library technician and the college archivist at Lake Michigan College and as a branch librarian for Douglas County Libraries in Michigan. In 2007, Caroline founded ZestyWords, a virtual-based editing and administrative consulting business that assists clients in industries ranging from aviation to personal training. However, she says, "I prefer to share my skills and expertise in a single setting, where someone else handles the marketing!" "RVU presents the ideal environment for my academic and administrative adeptness and familiarity working with diverse populations," she said. "Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m also a raving fan of osteopathic medicine and alternative therapies. [Also] I look forward to supporting my department and the University at large in many capacities." Caroline is passionate about volunteering. She spent four years coordinating county beach clean-ups for the Alliance for the Great Lakes and serving as a disaster relief volunteer for the American Red Cross following Hurricane Katrina. Currently, she is leading a Parker-based Girl Scout troop. She is married with two children, ages nine and seven, that attend the nearby Parker Performing Arts school and are green belts in Tae Kwon Do. "We love to hike, read, visit the library often, bike around town, and bake (then consume) allergy-friendly treats." An interesting fact about Caroline is that she does not fear

public speaking like many people. By age 16, she had earned both a Degree of Merit and a Degree of Honor from the National Speech and Debate Association. Also, she said, "I collect pens (obsessively) and cat hair (unintentionally)." Welcome, Caroline! Melanie Mozey Administrative Assistant to Admissions and Marketing Melanie grew up in Minnesota and has lived in both Florida and Kansas before moving to Colorado. She comes to RVU from Coffey Health System in Burlington, Kansas, where she worked in the marketing department. She also has experience in sales, hospitality, banking, and administrative assistance. While living in Florida, she even worked for Walt Disney World! Melanie married her high school sweetheart twenty-one years ago. Together, they have three children and a fouryear-old German Shepherd. With her husband working in vocational ministry, they have moved around a lot but are ready to call Colorado their home. She enjoys running, aerobics, music, movies, family time, and being involved in womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bible studies. Melanie is excited to be a part of the team here at RVU, to learn and grow in her new position, and to be given an opportunity to continue her education. Welcome, Melanie! Lon Van Winkle, PhD Professor of Medical Humanities Dr. Van Winkle calls Milan, Michigan his hometown. He received a Doctor of Philosophy degree in biochemistry (with a minor in genetics) from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan in 1975. Dr. Van Winkle comes to RVU from the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, where he worked for over 36 years, first as an Assistant Professor of Biochemistry. In 1981, he was promoted to Associate Professor and, by 1996, he was a Professor and Chair of the Department of Biochemistry. In 1999, he wrote a book titled, Biomembrane Transport. He retired to Castle Rock, Colorado

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Welcome to our New Faculty and Staff! with his wife and family in 2015: "Mainly we wanted to be near our children's [grandparents], but also because we like exploring Colorado," he said. The innovative and creative atmosphere at RVU made him excited to join RVU part-time as a Professor of Medical Humanities. Dr. Van Winkle has two daughters (ages 7 and 12), two sons (ages 49 and 50), and a stepson (age 20). He also has four

grandchildren between the ages of 15 and 23. In his spare time, Dr. Van Winkle enjoys running: "I have exercised regularly as a runner for over 55 years." When he lived in Chicago, he enjoyed running along the lakefront when the wind chill was 75 degrees below zero. "I had the lakefront pretty much to myself!" Welcome, Dr. Van Winkle!

Promotions and Appointments Duane Brandau, DO, PhD, has been appointed the Director of Research. As the Director, he will coordinate with each University program to promote and facilitate research projects, presentations, and publications. He will also work with external organizations to identify areas of collaboration on research projects for faculty and students.

Andrew Stevens has been promoted to University Clery Act Compliance Coordinator. As the Compliance Coordinator, he will be responsible for all Clery-related matters along with the publication of the Annual Security Reports and other reporting requirements. Andrew will retain his current title of Security Supervisor, as well.

Cassidy Chambers, MPA, has been promoted to Assistant Director of Admissions from her previous position as Admissions Counselor. She will be more involved with the review of RVUCOM candidate files. She will oversee the daily admission process for the MSBS program and will serve as the chief liaison to the Information Services Department.

Jodie Wang has been promoted to GME/ OPTI Coordinator from her previous position as Administrative Assistant. She will assist the Assistant/Associate Dean of GME in establishing and implementing procedures, recruitment and credentialing of clinical sites and physicians, and continuing accreditation for postgraduate training programs.

Heather Ferrill, DO, MS, has been promoted to Associate Director of Osteopathic Integration. In this role, she will support the delivery of the OPP Residency Program at Sky Ridge Medical Center, as well as the Osteopathic Recognition program for all the residencies there. She will also assist in the delivery of osteopathic education to the thirdand fourth-year students.

Erica Whatley has been named the Event Planning and External Relations Specialist. She will help coordinate and facilitate special event projects including OMED (the annual conference hosted by AOA), Bike to Work Day, and other community events. She will continue to facilitate our Commencement and White Coat Ceremony program and activities.

Ken Ramey, DO, FACOFP, has been promoted to Program Director of the Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine (NMM) / Osteopathic Manipulative Medicine + 1 Residency. He will continue to serve as Associate Professor of OPP in the Department of Structural Medicine, as well.

Jennifer Williams, PhD, has been promoted to Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness. In this role, she will be responsible for the oversight of RVU's accreditation process. She will work closely with the Board of Trustees and University constituents assisting with strategic planning and committee work.

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From the Rocky Vista University Alumni Association

A LU M N I A SSO C I AT ION

Greetings RVU faculty, staff, students, and alumni, I hope that 2017 is off to a great start for each and every one of you. To the alumni, please keep us aware of all your wonderful accomplishments so we can highlight them in the Vista View! As the school year rolls on and our second-year students near the end of their on-campus training, they will soon participate in the clinical site lottery, finding out where their base site will be for third-year rotations. Good luck to each of them and I’m sure some will be working with our alumni as they progress in their training and knowledge. Many of our fourth-year students have already matched to their top residency spots in the military and osteopathic matches. We look forward to the allopathic match in a couple weeks; I have no doubts the rest of our students will match to highly regarded residency programs. Congratulations to all who have already matched and good luck to those who are waiting with excitement. This month, RVU hosted "Diversity Week" which was an incredible week with daily events. Many people participated including students, alumni, staff, and faculty—from wide-eyed first-year students still trying to learn how best to study to seasoned physicians including Dr. Thomas Told, Dean of RVUCOM, and Dr. Clint Adams, President of RVU, who have been practicing medicine longer than some of us have been alive! One event, "Generational Physician Perspectives," shed light on the differences between older and younger physicians. Discussions involved work-life balance (or lack thereof), relying more on imaging versus physical examinations, and the differences between the art of medicine and the science of medicine. I would argue that neither the older or younger generation is 100% correct about many of these things and we need to learn to find a balance. But then again, that’s why we practice medicine, isn’t it? I look forward to next year’s Diversity Week as I’m sure it will be just as fascinating. Also a quick note to those alumni who are graduating from residency at the end of June, hang in there! You’re almost done and I know you’re ready to practice your craft. Enjoy the time you have left, learn everything you can in the few short months that remain, and help teach those around you to make them better, smarter physicians for having worked with you. If the Alumni Association can help in any way, please do not hesitate to email Julie Rosenthal at jrosenthal@rvu.edu or myself at ajackryan@gmail.com. If you have not done so, please be sure to begin (or renew) your status as a member of the Alumni Association.

Practicing What We Preach:

Sincerely,

AJ Ryan, DO '13 Alumni Association President

According to recent data collected by the National Center for the Analysis of Healthcare Data (NCAHD): - 50% of RVUCOM graduates practice in a primary care setting - 33% of RVUCOM graduates practice in an underserved area - 28% of RVUCOM graduates practice in a Primary Care HPSA area - 6% of RVUCOM graduates practice in a rural area

Remembering Brandon Trusell Thank you to Drs. James and Kathryn Trusell and the Conklin Family Foundation for their generous contributions to the Service Scholarship established in Brandon's name.

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V U A

From the Rocky Vista University Alumni Association

LU M N I

A SSO C I AT ION

congratulations to all of our alumni on their achievements! Job Acceptances, Fellowships, and Other Accomplishments Charles Hutchinson, DO '15, has been selected to be Chief Resident at his family medicine residency program at Martin Army Community Hospital in Fort Benning, Georgia.

Brandon Noyes, DO '16, recently received a research grant for his work on red/green light—the only intern at his residency program to receive one! His research will focus on the differences in identifying tissues with the usage of red/green light. This research (which is explained in more detail in the right column) was initially started while Dr. Noyes was attending RVUCOM. He is currently working at a transitional year residency at Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth, Virginia. Kabeer Shah, DO '14, was recently featured in the magazine, The Pathologist. "Power List," which features the "rising stars" of pathology stated that Dr. Shah "is engaging the medical field through social media as well as promoting open-access medical education." He is currently in a pathology residency at Mayo Clinic and will be joining their Dermatopathology Fellowship Program upon graduation. He recently won the American Society of Dermatopathology's Mentor Award. Photo courtesy of mayo.edu. Jessica Garner-Small, DO '13, has been accepted into the Gastroenterology Fellowship program at Baylor Scott and White Hospital in Temple, Texas. She will begin the fellowship upon graduation from her internal medicine residency this spring, which is also at Baylor-Scott and White.

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Posters and Publications Charles Hutchinson, DO '15, and Brandon Noyes, DO '16, co-authored an article, "Red-Green Versus Blue Tactical Light," which was published in Journal of Special Operations Medicine. The research tested the color vision of subjects under white, red-green, and blue flashlights to determine color discrimination. This research found that color perception is significantly better with red-green light than with blue. It is believed that maximizing visual capability will lead to better success rates for Special Operations Forces when performing surgery in low-light conditions. The poster was co-authored by Anthony LaPorta, MD, FACS, Course Director for the Military Track. L-R: Steve Edwards, DO '16, Varea Costello, DO '16, and Brandon Noyes, DO '16 at an Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) course. ATLS is a program run by the American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma. The course teaches medical students and physicians how to assess a trauma patient's condition, resuscitate the patient, and transport them safely.

We are grateful for the generous donations to the Alumni Association from the following: • Dr. and Mrs. Gregory G. Papadeas and the Family Charitable Fund • Dr. Clinton Adams and Mrs. Paula Adams • Dr. Scott Ellner • Dr. David Park • Julie Rosenthal

The Vista View is published by the Rocky Vista University Marketing Department.

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