College of Health Sciences Annual Publication | Spring/Summer 2024 | SHSU

The College of Health Sciences

The College of Health Sciences

Sam Houston State University

Dr. Emily Roper

Dean, COHS

Dr. Ryan Zapalac

Associate Dean, COHS

Dr. Jennifer Bunn

Associate Dean, COHS

Dr. Christine Cardinal

Assistant Dean, COHS

Ms. Karen Leonhart

Marketing Communications and Event Coordinator, COHS

Writers

Dr. Devon Berry

Dr. Jennifer Bunn

Dr. Kathleen Gilbert

Ms. Karen Leonhart

Mr. Ronald Reed

Dr. Emily Roper

Dr. Ryan Zapalac

Integrated Marketing Communications

Jeff Harris

Chief Marketing Officer & Public Information Officer, IMC

Editor

Emily Binetti

Director of Content Communications, IMC

Design

Bri Garza

Assistant Director of Graphic Design, IMC

FROM THE DEAN

I hope this message finds everyone doing well and enjoying the summer. I am thrilled to introduce the second annual COHS Magazine. This year, we highlight the importance of forging academic and community partnerships, share progress on our COHS Bridge Scholarship program, discuss how the School of Nursing is tackling the nursing shortage, and highlight the inaugural COHS summer camp for high school students. We also recently broke ground on the Health Professions Building in Conroe. Please stay connected to our social media platforms for updates and information throughout the year.

cohs@shsu.edu | 936.294.2309

Lee Drain Building, Suite 201

1900 Avenue I PO Box 2301

Sam Houston State University Huntsville, TX 77341

As always, I welcome your feedback and suggestions. Please feel free to contact me directly at emilyroper@shsu.edu or 936-294-2395. Wishing each of you a happy and healthy spring season.

Emily Roper Dean, College of Health Sciences

BRIDGING THE GAP TO GRADUATE SCHOOL

The College of Health Sciences Bridge Scholarship Program was created to encourage the transition of Sam Houston State University undergraduate students to pursue graduate studies. The program aims to empower students for a successful transition into the next phase of their academic journey.

This initiative goes beyond financial assistance; it offers participants a comprehensive experience that includes dedicated faculty mentoring, hands-on research, impactful outreach opportunities, enriching social engagements and rigorous academic preparation tailored specifically for the challenges of graduate school.

Six students participated in the inaugural year of the Bridge Scholarship Program in 2022-23. Some of the research projects included: evaluating injuries in full-time and part-time special weapons and tactics (SWAT) units, an evaluation of water toxicity across Houston districts, exploring opportunities to build vaccine confidence and assessment of food safety knowledge in minority students.

Several students presented these projects at state and regional conferences. Kaylee Fredella’s work in SWAT teams will be published as a peer-reviewed article in the International Journal of Police Science. Of the five students that have already graduated, three are currently pursuing their Master of Public Health and one is pursuing a Doctorate in Physical Therapy.

“Working with SWAT was interesting. I learned a lot about a profession that I would have never learned about without this program,” Fredella said.

“The SWAT members were very inviting and allowed questions to be asked. They definitely had me leaving there thinking how I could help them further when it came to preventing injuries.”

Current members of the program are learning about the process of applying for graduate school, building their resumes and participating in their own research projects. Some of the projects this year include using a specialized chair to progress physical developmental delays in children with Downs Syndrome and exploring the bilateral differences in lean mass and strength in musicians.

Details for the Bridge program can be found at shsu.edu/bridge-program

Students interested in applying for the program should apply through Scholarships4Kats.

For those interested in funding scholarships or equipment for the Bridge Scholarship Program, please contact Jennifer Bunn, Associate Dean for Research at jab229@shsu.edu.

SUCCESSFUL SUMMER CAMP

WELCOMED HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

The College of Health Sciences (COHS) held its first summer camp in July 2023, hosting 30 high school students from across Texas and one visitor from Minnesota. Over 75 students applied to attend the free two-day camp. Participants were selected based on a qualifying GPA and their alignment and aspirations with programs provided within the college.

Campers and their parents arrived on the Sam Houston State University campus, where they were greeted by COHS Dean Emily Roper and camp counselors Allison Ulloa, a healthcare administration student; Matthew Lord, SHSU Physical Education Teacher Education student and Sharlyne Dimalanta, a nursing student.

Camp activities included spending time with faculty and students from all COHS departments. In Human Sciences, campers cooked healthy snacks, planned living spaces, forecasted fashion trends and engineered a menu. Kinesiology activities included assessments of body composition, aerobic capacity and balance, adapted activities, effective communication and basic splinting for injuries. In Public Health, students participated in a Social Determinants of Health board game, alcohol, tobacco, e-cigarette awareness and prevention activities and hearing loss screening and early detection. Nursing activities included learning how to properly put on and take off personal protective equipment and working with the simulation manikins to apply and read electrocardiograms, measure heart rate and blood pressure and start an IV.

During their downtime, students also enjoyed a campus tour and activities in the Kat Klub.

“I loved discovering all the wonderful opportunities Sam Houston has to offer,” camper Brooke Cerny said.

Participants also enjoyed the opportunities to immerse themselves in the diverse realms of health sciences, gaining valuable insights.

“I feel more open to thinking about other majors than I was before, now that I have some understanding of it,” camper Jonathan Paredes said.

COHS will host its second camp on July 16-18, 2024. Details can be found at tinyurl.com/COHSCamp

Students interested in attending should apply through the website. If you are interested in sponsoring a student to attend camp, please contact Jennifer Bunn at jab229@shsu.edu.

FORGING

ACADEMIC & COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

Academic Community Engagement (ACE) represents a dynamic and mutually advantageous collaboration between educational institutions and their neighboring communities. This collaborative effort goes beyond the confines of traditional academia, aiming to enhance the quality of life for community members while enriching the educational experiences of students. The purposes and benefits are multifaceted, acting as a bridge between theory and practice, while also instilling a sense of social responsibility among students.

In the Department of Public Health, Clinical Assistant Professor Adannaa Alexander’s Health Planning and Evaluation course focused on the larger idea that communities can help solve their own health problems. To apply that concept in a real-world setting, students partnered with the SHSU Student Wellness Office to address mental health among college students by focusing on the underlying issues that contribute to poor mental health: unmanaged stress, poor time management, and/ or social isolation. Students then presented their work to generate solution ideas.

“This project helped me research evidence-based materials,” public health major Stephanie Georges said. “After completing the course, I believe I can take on a project focused on the community and work out how to implement it based on what we learned through the class.”

In the Department of Human Sciences, Assistant Professor Tabbetha Lopez’s graduate Dietetics Internship course partnered with the American Heart Association and the Houston Food Bank for an ACE project. Recognizing the importance of community partnerships to drive sustainable changes, three collaborating organizations offered their unique expertise and access to different resources. The primary outcome led to the commitment to a healthy food pantry nutrition policy and the adoption of a food security screening tool at the SHSU Food Pantry.

In the Department of Kinesiology, Associate Professor Min Kim’s Adapted Physical Activity course partnered with the Sports and Movement Camp, which is designed to provide Kinesiology students with an opportunity to teach a wide range of sports and physical activities to people with disabilities. Kinesiology students derive significant advantages from practical, hands-on experiences that not only enhance their skills but also cultivate a more positive outlook towards individuals with disabilities, ultimately contributing to a positive and meaningful impact on the community.

Through these partnerships, communities benefit from academic engagement that addresses pressing issues, resulting in improved public health, education, economic development and overall community well-being.

- The measure of a Life is its Service (SHSU motto)

EMPOWERING TOMORROW’S HEALTHCARE LEADERS

CONROE’S FUTURE STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITY

This spring, the Sam Houston State University College of Health Sciences (COHS) is set to embark on an exciting venture with the groundbreaking of its new Health Professions Building (HPB) in Conroe, Texas, positioned adjacent to the College of Osteopathic Medicine (COM). This state-of-the-art facility, spanning four stories and covering approximately 80,000 square feet, will serve as the cornerstone for the evolution of healthcare education.

Designed to accommodate two existing programs – the Master of Science in Athletic Training (MSAT) and Master of Science in Dietetics – as well as two proposed programs, the Doctor of Physical Therapy and Master of Science in Physician Assistant, the building is poised to play a pivotal role in bridging crucial gaps in regional healthcare. Anticipated to open its doors in January 2026, the facility promises to revolutionize the learning experience for future health professionals.

Within its walls, the Health Professions Building will feature specialized laboratory spaces tailored to each program, fostering hands-on, immersive learning. Active learning classrooms will promote collaboration and engagement among students, while designated areas such as the learning commons and student huddle rooms will provide dedicated spaces for studying and skill practice.

The student-centric approach extends further with essential support spaces, including a medical and health professions library, testing center, counseling and health center, café and fitness center. These amenities are strategically incorporated to create a conducive environment for holistic student development.

Moreover, the building’s strategic location on the same campus as COM, coupled with its proximity to the School of Nursing in The Woodlands, opens doors to enhanced interprofessional collaboration – a vital component in the dynamic field of health professions and medicine.

As COHS breaks ground on this transformative project, it marks a significant step toward shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals and addressing the evolving needs of regional healthcare. The convergence of cutting-edge facilities and collaborative partnerships is poised to elevate the educational landscape, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the ever-changing healthcare industry.

(L-R): Clint Menefee, Emily Roper, Michael Stephenson, Alisa White, Rep. Will Metcalf, Brian McCall, Amanda Withers, Juan Nunez, Craig Newitt

BRIDGING EDUCATION WITH INDUSTRY

Students in Sam Houston State University’s College of Health Sciences (COHS) have access to unique experiences that allow them to apply classroom knowledge to real-world settings. These opportunities build critical thinking, professional skills and industry perspectives.

Senior Sydney Sams understands how the fashion industry requires strategic planning and meticulous execution. With that in mind, she started her SHSU journey pairing her major in Fashion Merchandising with a Business minor to advance her career.

Beyond the classroom, Sams took part in an internship with the Levi Strauss & Co. San Francisco headquarters, where she had the chance to work alongside future industry leaders. She also had the opportunity to attend the prestigious New York Fashion Week as SHSU’s representative. Organized by the Collegiate Licensing Company and IMG, the UofNYFW program gives students an exclusive glimpse into fashion’s inner workings like runway shows, Q&As and backstage tours. A collaboration between SHSU Licensing, COHS and the Department of Human Sciences made the opportunity possible.

“Going to NYFW showed me I can achieve my dreams. It’s special for a small-town girl like me to get these chances in fashion,” said Sams. “All the people that make NYFW happen, really put their hearts into their work, and it shows with every intricate detail!”

When alumnus David Brady offered SHSU Sport Management students a behind-the-scenes look into the planning of a top college sporting event, they immediately jumped at the oncein-a-lifetime opportunity. Brady’s Business of Major Sporting Events course emerged from his prior NCAA Final Four work and included support from the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority, a strong SHSU partner. Through the experience, students gained insider access to the 2023 College Football Playoff (CFP)Championship game planning and had the chance to engage with executives to see all angles of event production.

“The course brought opportunities I couldn’t get elsewhere. Meeting different professionals weekly was incredible,” said Sydney D’Easum. “I’ve expanded my network locally and nationally, led projects and collaborated with other students. Learning from influential sports business leaders provided more industry insights. I’m grateful for the experience.”

COHS prioritizes these real-world experiences to bridge education and industry. Whether attending elite fashion events or planning championship games, students gain transferable skills, connections and confidence to achieve their aspirations. Hands-on learning propels them into impactful careers where they can make a difference in the workforce doing what they love.

The course brought opportunities I couldn’t get elsewhere. Meeting different professionals weekly was incredible.

- Sydney D’Easum

Sydney Sams Fashion Merchandising

Sydney D’Easum Sport Management

TACKLING THE NURSING SHORTAGE

SHSU’S SCHOOL OF NURSING PLANS FOR FUTURE GROWTH

Amid the escalating healthcare demands, a plea echoed by Chief Nursing Officers (CNO) of the Greater Houston Area resonates loudly: ‘Can you please send us more nurses?’ This single expression sums up the urgent need pervading the healthcare landscape. Every CNO in the region underscores this critical request.

The nursing shortage continues to plague the U.S. healthcare workforce. Over 100,000 nurses left during the COVID-19 pandemic, and it is estimated that hundreds of thousands more will leave in the next several years. One thinktank suggests that every nursing school in the U.S. would have to double its enrollment for three years to adequately address the shortage. In case that doesn’t feel close enough to home, Texas has the second largest nursing shortage in the country.

More than a year ago, the CEOs of four local hospitals united in a collective effort, co-signing a letter addressed to Sam Houston State University President Alisa White. In this collaboration, they expressed a shared aspiration for SHSU to increase the production of nursing professionals to bolster their workforces. Acknowledging the need for a strategic response to the ongoing shortage, these leaders are acutely attuned to the heightened demand within Houston’s healthcare sector for the esteemed “Sam Nurse.”

SHSU stepped up to answer the call by sharing its intention to significantly increase the number of students in the School of Nursing (SON). To do that, three key ingredients are needed – more learning space, more faculty and more opportunities for students to receive hands-on training.

“We’re tackling these three barriers starting with the faculty shortage, because we believe if we can get the right people, anything is possible,” said Devon Berry, SON director. “To that end, we successfully pursued two state grants this past year. This funding is allowing us to reach directly into the nursing community and train more nurses to teach through preceptor bootcamps, simulation summits and shared employment workshops.”

To date, SON has upskilled over 100 nurses and other healthcare professionals in the Greater Houston Area, and they plan to reach more in 2024.

A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO WELL-BEING

The College of Health Sciences (COHS) is pioneering a transformative approach to student well-being with initiatives that are not just about addressing hunger, but demonstrate an overall commitment to student health, success and community engagement.

“Our food pantry, a lifeline for students experiencing food insecurity, has embarked on a groundbreaking three-year, $30,000 partnership with Kroger. We also recently signed a nutrition policy with community and campus partners,” said Kathleen Gilbert, food pantry director.

The collaboration with Kroger is a testament to COHS’s dedication to providing quality food options to students. With a generous grant of $30,000, the investment will not only increase the quantity of food available, but also enhance the quality, offering students fresh produce, dietary options and culturally appropriate items, promoting a balanced and nourishing diet.

The SHSU Food Pantry has also made a significant move toward healthier eating. They recently signed a nutrition policy involving the American Heart Association, Houston Food Bank and the SHSU Dietetics program. The agreement makes a commitment to providing foods that align with healthier dietary guidelines.

“This policy and the work being accomplished by our Dietetics graduate students underscores the importance of nourishing both the body and mind for academic success,” Gilbert said.

“It goes beyond just food distribution and educates students about healthier choices, creating a long-lasting impact on their overall well-being.”

Setting a high bar for universities across the nation, this multi-faceted approach isn’t just about helping students in need, but fostering a sense of community and empowerment on campus.

COHS AP ALUMNI

PAULO BORLONGAN

BSN, RN, CCRN, TCRN, CVRN-BC

BS NURSING

SHSU, 2020

NEURO INTENSIVE CARE NURSE, MEMORIAL HERMANN HEALTH SYSTEM

“Through the encouragement of my parents, both seasoned nurses themselves, I decided to pursue nursing. Since then, I’ve gone through the stress of nursing school, a citywide freeze, a global pandemic, and experienced first-hand hospital horror stories. Despite all that, I have not once regretted my decision. I encourage all those who have compassion and a desire to make an impact to look into nursing. Each time I step into the hospital, I have the opportunity to make a lasting difference for my patients and their families. Caring for another human being and being entrusted with their lives is, to me, the greatest act of kindness one can do.“

KENNETH HERNANDEZ

BS IN KINESIOLOGY AND SPECIAL EDUCATION

SHSU, 2023

MASTER OF EDUCATIONAL LEADERSHIP

SFA, 2023

COORDINATOR OF HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION, ALDINE ISD

“Working with students and educators is extremely rewarding. The amount of joy that I receive from working with others who are focused on helping others is a daily gift for which I am grateful. It brings a smile to my face thinking about a multitude of individuals who have supported me over my career, allowing me to enable teachers to provide an engaging learning environment to all students, and empowering the community to be healthy, lifelong learners.“

Caring for another human being and being entrusted with their lives is, to me, the greatest act of kindness in the world.

- Paulo Borlongan

EMILY GORDON–ARAKI

BS PUBLIC HEALTH

SHSU, 2018

MASTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH

UTHEALTH HOUSTON, 2021

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY IMPACT, AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION

“I was drawn to the field of public health with the hope of being able to develop interventions to ensure equitable access to health for all Americans; the American Heart Association echoes this sentiment and I get to spend every day strategizing on how to ensure all people live their healthiest life. In addition, as an alumna of Sam Houston I have an extra passion for promoting a healthy community on campus. Sam Houston sparked my interest in public health, and now I have had the best opportunity to do something good on the same campus that taught me and led me on my own path. For this reason, the pantry marks so much more for me than just a healthy outlet for students; it’s been my first chance to work together with such an incredible team to improve my own school’s infrastructure and cultivate a healthy community for future Bearkats.“

ITALIA MALDONADO

BA INTERIOR DESIGN, 2023

INTERIOR DESIGNER, VICTORIA SHEFFIELD DESIGN LLC

“Stepping into the interior design world made me realize it is not all about the aesthetics but about creating sanctuaries of safety and comfort for my clients. My work as an interior designer is meaningful because I get to make a connection with my clients and promote a healthy and safe space for them.

My SHSU professors motivated me to attend networking events for designers, even as a student. Networking is really important in this field; you have to make yourself show.“

SAM HOUSTON STATE UNIVERSITY

16 Undergraduate Degree Programs

6 Graduate Degree Programs

THE COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES:

•Retains strong, respected partnerships with more than 200 clinical placement and/or internship sites and serves the state and region through public health workforce research.

•Provides tens of thousands of hours of uncompensated patient or community care. For example, in a single clinically-based nursing class, the students will provide over 7,000 hours of patient care in local hospitals.

•Serves nearly 3,000 students and community members through the SHSU Food Pantry (2022-2023).

•Prides itself on its faculty members who have national and state awards for teaching and mentoring of students–with more than 60% employing active learning, high-impact teaching practices.

•Maintains outstanding student pass rates, including 94% on NCLEX (Nursing), 96.77% on the Registered Dietician Exam (Dietetics), and 94% on TExES EC-12 (Physical Education Teacher Education).

•Boasts 90-100% of students having employment offers before graduation in seven programs, in addition to top students being accepted into prestigious graduate programs in physical therapy, occupational therapy, athletic training, public health, exercise science, and others.

SHSU Ranked #6

Best Texas Colleges

U.S. News & World Report

SHSU Ranked Best Texas Institution for Social Mobility

U.S. News & World Report

SHSU Designated Military

Friendly® Institution

THE TEXAS STATE UNIVERSITY SYSTEM BOARD OF REGENTS

Alan L. Tinsley, Chairman......................................................................Madisonville

Dioncio (Don) Flores, Vice Chairman.........................................................El Paso

Charlie Amato............................................................................................San Antonio

Duke Austin........................................................................................................Houston

Sheila Faske.....................................................................................................Rose City

Russell Gordy....................................................................................................Houston

Stephen Lee...................................................................................................Beaumont

Tom Long.................................................................................................................Frisco

William F. Scott............................................................................................Nederland

Kelvin Elgar, Student Regent..................................................................Beaumont

Brian McCall, Chancellor...................................................................................Austin