John A. Burns School of Medicine University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
CONVOCATION CEREMONY Honoring the
CLASS OF 2020
Sunday, May 17, 2020 9:30 am
RESTATEMENT OF THE OATH OF HIPPOCRATES
I
swear by all I hold most sacred and before my family, my teachers, and my peers that to the best of my ability I will keep this Oath and Stipulation:
To honor all who have taught me this art and in the same spirit and dedication to impart a knowledge of medicine to others. I will continue with diligence to keep abreast of advances in medicine, and respect those who broaden our knowledge by research. I will treat without exception all who seek my ministrations and discriminate against no one, so long as the treatment of others is not compromised thereby, and I will seek the counsel of particularly skilled physicians where indicated for the benefit of my patient. I will remember that caring for the patient will be my primary concern and while doing so I will honor the autonomy of the sick. I will recognize that such caring requires my being available, giving my time generously, communicating honestly, and comforting as well as treating. Such care also involves offering my support to my patients’ loved ones.
ĘťOhiĘťa Lehua
I will maintain all patient confidentiality and uphold the highest ethical, moral, and behavioral standards for myself and my peers. My behavior will always be honorable, thoughtful, and reflect justice toward all humanity. My fiduciary role will require protecting patients from all forms of malpractice, malfeasance, and unnecessary expenses, and I will try to prevent, as well as cure, disease. While I continue to keep this Oath inviolate, may it be granted to me to enjoy life and the practice of the art and science of medicine; respected by my peers and society. May my faith strengthen my resolve to attain the above.
Kukui
Program Master of Ceremonies Richard Kasuya, MD Welcome Chant—”Oli” Ka‘ahukane G. Leite-Ah Yo, MD, Brysa T.W. Kato, MD, Christa D. Brown, MD, Brandon I.Y.C. Ing, MD, Hollyann F.M.S. Loui, MD, Bryston Y.N. Chang, MD Opening Remarks Jill Omori, MD Presentation of the Class of 2020 Lawrence Burgess, MD Commissioning Oath William Haning, III, MD Keynote Address Steven Wartman, MD, PhD, MACP Welcome from the Class of 2020 Joseph R.T. Go, MD Class President Charge to the Class Jerris R. Hedges, MD, MS, MMM Oath of Hippocrates William Haning, III MD
Closing Remarks Ivy Nip Asano, MD
DOCTOR OF MEDICINE ~ Name Hometown Prior degree • Specialty Field • Residency Program
Danielle Dawn A. Acacio, MD Waipahu, Hawai‘i BS, 2015, Chemistry, Creighton University • Family Medicine • Mike O’ Callaghan Federal Hosp/Nellis AFB/University of Nevada School of Medicine Las Vegas, NV Asia R.K. Ayabe, MD Honolulu, Hawai‘i BA, 2015, Neuroscience, Pomona College • Obstetrics-Gynecology • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI Jin Y. Bae, MD Honolulu, Hawai‘i BS, 2014, Biology, University of Washington • Medicine - Preliminary • Loma Linda University Loma Linda, CA • Anesthesiology • NYU Grossman School of Medicine New York, NY
The Class of 2020
Woo Ri Bae, MD Kāneʻohe, Hawai‘i BS, 2014, Microbiology, University of Rochester • Psychiatry • Zucker School of MedicineNorthwell Zucker Hillside Glen Oaks, NY Vladimir G. Bernstein, MD Kāneʻohe, Hawaiʻi BA, 2014, Neuroscience and Behavior, Columbia University MM, 2016, Double Bass Performance, The Julliard School • Emergency Medicine • Cook County Health and Hospital Systems Chicago, IL Qian Bian, MD Ω + Ji Ning, China BS, 2014, Physiology, McGill University MS, 2016, Pharmacology, University of Toronto • Family Medicine • University of Ottawa Ottawa, Canada Christa D. Brown, MD Ω * Honolulu, Hawaiʻi BS, 2016, Biomedical Sciences, Liberty University • Family Medicine • Methodist Hospital of Sacramento Sacramento, CA
Ω Member of Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society + Member of Gold Humanism Honor Society *Dean’s Certificate of Distinction (>* = multiple certificates)
DOCTOR OF MEDICINE ~ Bryston Y.N. Chang, MD * Honolulu, Hawaiʻi BS, 2016, Chemistry, Creighton University • Pediatrics • UC Irvine Medical Center Orange, CA Monet M.M. Cheung, MD Honolulu, Hawaiʻi BA, 2013, Psychology, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa • Emergency Medicine • Oregon Health & Science University Portland, OR Caitlin M. Clark, MD Littleton, Colorado BS, 2013, Psychology, University of Colorado at Denver • Psychiatry • University of Utah Health Salt Lake City, UT Tru C. Dang, MD * Nha Trang, Vietnam BS, 2016, Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology • Vascular Surgery • Medical University of South Carolina Charleston, SC Ryan M. Ebisu, MD Aiea, Hawaiʻi BS, 2013, Biochemistry, Biology, University of Washington • Emergency Medicine • Oregon Health & Science University Portland, OR
The Class of 2020
Kaitlynn M. Ebisutani, MD Honolulu, Hawaiʻi BS, 2014, Biology, Global Health, University of Washington • Obstetrics-Gynecology • University of Hawaiʻi Residency Programs Honolulu, HI Michael T. Fujita, MD Honolulu, Hawaiʻi BA, 2014, Biochemistry, Japanese, Occidental College • Obstetrics-Gynecology Preliminary • University of Hawaiʻi Residency Programs Honolulu, HI Joseph R.T. Go, MD + * San Pablo, Philippines BA, 2014, Neuroscience, Philosophy, University of Southern California • Medicine-Primary • University of Hawaiʻi Residency Programs Honolulu, HI Alison M. Goo, MD + Honolulu, Hawaiʻi BS, 2015, Molecular & Cellular Biology, Bioethics Emphasis, University of Puget Sound • Medicine-Primary • University of Hawaiʻi Residency Programs Honolulu, HI
Gavin Q. Ha, MD Honolulu, Hawaiʻi BS, 2013, Biochemistry, Microbiology-Bacteriology Washington State University • Surgery-Preliminary • University of Hawaiʻi Residency Programs Honolulu, HI James T. Ha, MD Honolulu, Hawaiʻi BS, 2016, Biology, Computer Science, California Institute of Technology • Medicine-Preliminary • University of Hawaiʻi Residency Programs Honolulu, HI • Radiology-Diagnostic • Yale-New Haven Hospital New Haven, CT Audrey M. Hagiwara, MD Honolulu, Hawai‘i BA, 2015, Biology, Psychology, Boston University • Internal Medicine • Cedars Sinai Medical Center Los Angeles, CA Gregory J. Harbison, MD Ω Milwaukee, Wisconsin BA, 2011, Biology, Chemistry, East Asian Studies, Colorado College MS, 2015, Toxicology, Colorado State University • Orthopaedic Surgery • UC Davis Medical Center Sacramento, CA
Lucas A. Heldt Manica, MD Porto Alegre, Brazil BS, 2014, Molecular & Cell Biology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Anesthesiology • Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education Rochester, MN Chaewon Im, MD Ω Seoul, Republic of Korea BA, 2016, Biology, Korean, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Psychiatry • Emory University School of Medicine Atlanta, GA Brandon I.Y.C. Ing, MD * Honolulu, Hawaiʻi BS, 2012, Biochemistry, University of Washington MSEd, 2015, Educational StudiesSecondary, Johns Hopkins University School of Education MHS, 2016, Reproductive and Cancer Biology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health • Obstetrics-Gynecology • Kaiser Permanente-Los Angeles Los Angeles, CA
Ω Member of Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society + Member of Gold Humanism Honor Society *Dean’s Certificate of Distinction (>* = multiple certificates)
‘Awa
DOCTOR OF MEDICINE ~
The Class of 2020
Carrie G. Ip, MD + * Kea‘au, Hawai‘i BS, 2015, Biology, University of Hawai‘i at Hilo • Pediatrics • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI
Kaily A.M. Kuikahi, MD ‘Ewa Beach, Hawai‘i BS, 2013, Nutrition, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Pediatrics • Kaiser Permanente-Oakland Oakland, CA
Laura A.T. Kagami, MD Ω Honolulu, Hawai‘i BS, 2016, Human Biology, University of Southern California • Pediatrics • Children’s Hospital-Philadelphia Philadelphia, PA
Andrew M. Kuriyama, MD Honolulu, Hawai‘i BS, 2013, Biology, University of Washington MPH, 2015, Biology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Anesthesiology • University of Southern California Los Angeles, CA
Trace K. Kalei, MD Hilo, Hawai‘i BS, 2011, Molecular Biology, University of Hawai‘i at Hilo • Research • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI Brittni N.M. Kam, MD + * Mililani, Hawai‘i BS, 2015, Biology, Public Health, Santa Clara University • Pediatrics • Stanford University Programs Stanford, CA Brysa T.W. Kato, MD * Honolulu, Hawai‘i BA, 2016, Biology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Internal Medicine • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI
Geoffrey K. Kusaka, MD Ω Honolulu, Hawai‘i BS, 2016, Human Biology, University of Southern California • Internal Medicine • Cedars Sinai Medical Center Los Angeles, CA Alda E. Lam, MD * Honolulu, Hawai‘i BA, 2015, Human Biology, Stanford University • Pediatrics • Children’s Hospital-Oakland Oakland, CA
Ka‘ahukane G. Leite-Ah Yo, MD + * Hilo, Hawai‘i BA, 2014, Biology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Medicine-Primary UCLA Medical Center Los Angeles, CA
Hollyann F.M.S. Loui, MD Ω * Honolulu, Hawai‘i BS, 2016, Molecular & Cell Biology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Internal Medicine • UCLA Medical Center Los Angeles, CA
Eddy K.W. Leung, MD Ω Honolulu, Hawai‘i BS, 2015, Molecular & Cell Biology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Internal Medicine • BI Deaconess Medical Center Boston, MA
Derron H. Maki, MD Honolulu, Hawai‘i BS, 2013, Biology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Anesthesiology • Harbor-UCLA Medical Center Torrance, CA
Shuyang Liu, MD Ω Guangzhou, China BS, 2012, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of California-Davis • Orthopaedic Surgery • SUNY-HSC Brooklyn Brooklyn, NY Jaymes A.J. Lonzanida, MD * Pearl City, Hawai‘i BS, 2015, MicrobiologyBacteriology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Emergency Medicine • Desert Regional Medical Center Palm Springs, CA
Scott R. Marison Jr., MD Honolulu, Hawai‘i BA, 2016, Biology, Cornell University • General Surgery • University of Hawai´i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI Daniel H. Miyamoto, MD Mililani, Hawai‘i BS, 2012, Cellular, Molecular, Developmental Biology, University of Washington • Internal Medicine • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI
‘Awa Ω Member of Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society + Member of Gold Humanism Honor Society *Dean’s Certificate of Distinction (>* = multiple certificates)
DOCTOR OF MEDICINE ~
The Class of 2020
Charis A. Mok, MD Honolulu, Hawai‘i BA, 2015, Human Biology, Stanford University • Family Medicine • PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center Vancouver, WA
Kara M. Paul, MD + Missoula, Montana BA, 2016, Biology, University of Montana—Missoula • Anesthesiology • Oregon Health & Science University Portland, OR
Kayla A. Murata, MD + ** Waipahu, Hawai‘i BS, 2014, Biology, Loyola Marymount University • Family Medicine • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Mililani, HI
K. Keanokapulani Pavlosky, MD Honolulu, Hawai´i BA, 2008, Economics, Georgetown University MS, 2016, Molecular Biosciences & Bioengineering, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • General Surgery • University of Massachusetts Medical School Worcester, MA
Andi T. Ngo, MD Honolulu, Hawai‘i BS, 2016, Health Sciences, Creighton University PharmD, 2016, Pharmacy, Creighton University • Psychiatry • University of Nebraska Medical Center Omaha, NE Christina J. Park, MD * Seoul, Republic of Korea BA, 2013, Biology, Korean, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Internal Medicine • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI
Blake M.M. Pinell, MD Honolulu, Hawai´i BS, 2016, Molecular & Cell Biology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Psychiatry • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI
‘Awa
Ω Member of Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society + Member of Gold Humanism Honor Society *Dean’s Certificate of Distinction (>* = multiple certificates)
Britney K. Quibelan, MD * ´Aiea, Hawai´i BS, 2011, Biology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa BA, 2011, Women’s Studies, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Family Medicine • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI Keith G. Sablan, MD Yona, Guam BA, 2010, Biology, University of Guam • Internal Medicine • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI Kody D. Sacks-Moynihan, MD Davis, California BS, 2015, Biochemistry & Cell Biology, University of CaliforniaSan Diego • Emergency Medicine • Aventura Hospital Miami, FL Megan A. Stevenson, MD Ω ** Honolulu, Hawai´i BS, 2016, Biomedical Engineering, Anthropology Washington University at St. Louis • Obstetrics-Gynecology • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI
Jaskirat S. Takhar, MD Mississauga, Ontario, Canada BS, 2013, Kinesiology & Health Science, York University MS, 2014, Fitness Science, York University • Medicine-Preliminary • Case Western University Hospital Cleveland, OH • Ophthalmology • Case Western Reserve University Hospital Cleveland, OH Christopher T. Tanabe, MD Honolulu, Hawai´i BA, 2013, Chemistry, Economics, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa MS, 2016, Chemistry, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Internal Medicine • Methodist Hospital Houston, TX Bryce K. Tanaka, MD Honolulu, Hawai´i BA, 2016, Microbiology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Internal Medicine • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI Christopher K. Tokeshi, MD + Honolulu, Hawai´i BA, 2013, Chemistry, Willamette University • Psychiatry • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI
DOCTOR OF MEDICINE ~ Andrew S. Tokumi, MD Mililani, Hawaiʻi BA, 2008, Economics, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa MS, 2015, Physiology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine • Emergency Medicine • University of Connecticut School of Medicine Farmington, CT Zachary J. Tom, MD Honolulu, Hawaiʻi BS, 2016, Biology, Behavioral & Cognitive Neuropsychology, Creighton University • Internal Medicine • Harbor UCLA Medical Center Torrance, CA Nicholas Q. Tran, MD San Jose, California BS, 2013, Biochemistry, University of California-San Diego MS, 2014, Biomedical Imagining, University of CaliforniaSan Francisco • Pediatrics • Children’s Hospital-Oakland Oakland, CA
The Class of 2020
Sailesh V. Tummala, MD Ω * Phoenix, Arizona BS, 2015, Biological Sciences, Barrett, the Honors College at Arizona State University • Orthopaedic Surgery • Mayo Clinic School of Graduate Medical Education Phoenix, AZ Erica L.L. Warkus, MD Honolulu, Hawai´i BS, 2012, Conservation Biology & Ecological Sustainability, Arizona State University • Emergency Medicine • Florida State University College of Medicine Sarasota, FL Hall Wu, MD Honolulu, Hawai´i BS, 2015, Biology, University of Washington • Anesthesiology • University of Southern California Los Angeles, CA
‘Awa
Ω Member of Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society Ω Member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society + Member of Gold Humanism Honor Society *Dean’s Certificate = multiple certificates) *Dean’s Certificateof of Distinction Distinction (>*(>* = multiple certificates) + Member of the Gold Humanism Honor Society
Eri A. Yamaguchi, MD + * Honolulu, Hawai´i BA, 2014, Biology-Neurobiology, Boston University • Psychiatry • Harbor UCLA Medical Center Torrance, CA Geoffrey W. Yee, MD Honolulu, Hawai´i BS, 2012, Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester • Medicine - Preliminary • St. Mary’s Medical Center San Francisco, CA • Anesthesiology • NYU Grossman School of Medicine New York, NY Noa P.S.B. Yee, MD Honolulu, Hawai´i BS, 2016, Biology, Tufts University • Emergency Medicine • University of Southern California Los Angeles, CA Ryan K.W. Yee, MD Honolulu, Hawai´i BS, 2016, Biology, Colorado State University • Emergency Medicine • Crozer-Chester Medical Center Upland, PA
Dean’s Certificate of Distinction The Dean’s Certificate of Distinction is awarded to students who have demonstrated outstanding achievement and an exceptional commitment in a specialized area of interest and expertise. By completing a predetermined set of curricular and co-curricula activities, medical students can be nominated for this special recognition. This year’s recipients are being recognized for their achievements in the areas of Social Justice, Native Hawaiian Health, Rural Health, Patient Safety and Quality Improvement, and Medical Education.
GRADUATE AND UNDERGRADUATE TRAINING Academic Year 2019-2020 In addition to training students for the MD degree, the John A. Burns School of Medicine offers the MS and/or the PhD degrees in biomedical sciences with concentration in several disciplines such as clinical research, epidemiology, and developmental and reproductive biology, and tropical medicine, as well as through an interdisciplinary program in cell and molecular biology; an MS degree in communication sciences and disorders; and training in an undergraduate program leading to a BS degree in medical technology.
Doctor of Philosophy Danielle M. Clements Honolulu, Hawaiʻi BA 2011, University of Hawaiʻi, Mānoa MS 2017, University of Hawaiʻi, Mānoa PhD 2020, University of Hawaiʻi, Mānoa • Advisor: Lishomwa Ndhlovu, M.D., PhD • Dissertation: Regulation of CD8 T-Cell Function by Multiple Negative Immune Checkpoint Molecules during HTLM-1 Infection
Brooks I. Mitchell Kamuela, Hawai`i BS 2011 University of Hawaiʻi, Mānoa MS 2015 University of Hawaiʻi, Mānoa PhD 2020University of Hawaiʻi, Mānoa • Advisor Name: Cecilia M. Shikuma M.D. and Lishomwa C. Ndhlovu M.D. Ph.D. Dissertation Title: Understanding the Myeloid HIV Reservoir in HIVAssociated Neurological Disorder During Antiretroviral-Treated HIV Infection
Pōpolo Berry
Joanna M. Kettlewell Richmond, Virginia BS 2013, University of California-Santa Cruz PhD 2020, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa • Advisor: Peter Hoffmann, PhD • Dissertation: “Selenoprotein K deficiency inhibits melanoma progressing by reducing calcium flux required for tumor growth”
Alina Pang Honolulu, Hawai‘i BS 2013, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa PhD 2020, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa • Advisor: Mariana Gerschenson, PhD and Michael Corley, PhD. • Dissertation: “Investigation of Hyperglycemia’s Impact on the Immune System in Type 2 Diabetes” Jill Smith Honolulu, Hawai‘i BA 2010, University of Hawaiʻi, Mānoa PhD 2020, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa • Advisor: Michelle D. Tallquist PhD. • Dissertation: “Role of the Fibroblast in Structuring the Cardiac Microenvironment”
GRADUATE AND UNDERGRADUATE TRAINING Master of Science Clinical and Translational Research Paris N. Stowers Torri D. Fuller
Corrie B. Miller
Communication Sciences and Disorders Renee S. Martin Tropical Medicine, Medical Microbiology and Pharmacology
Louie Mar A. Gangcuangco
Taylor E. Tashiro
Bachelor of Science Medical Technology
Katheryn Peterson Li Deng Colleen Lundy Nadine Pilande Miki Harp
PĹ?polo Berry
Analisa Mikami Joshua Tolentino Audrey Tseng Alyssa Pascua Joshua Velasco
Convocation 2020 Keynote Speaker: Steven A. Wartman, M.D., Ph.D., MACP In July 2005, Dr. Wartman became the 3rd President of the Association of Academic Health Centers (AAHC), a nonprofit association based in Washington, DC that seeks to advance health and wellbeing through the vigorous leadership of the multifaceted institutions that educate the next generation of health professsionals, conduct cutting edge bio-medical and clinical research, and offer comprehensive patient care from the basic to the most advanced levels. Prior to assuming this position, he was Executive Vice President for Academic and Health Affairs and Dean of the School of Medicine at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. Dr. Wartman’s career in academic medicine includes chairing a department of medicine at two institutions and being the founding director of a division of general internal medicine. Dr. Wartman, an internist and sociologist, is board certified in internal medicine and a Master of the American College of Physicians. He received his AB from Cornell University and his MD and PhD degrees from Johns Hopkins University. He was also a Robert Wood Johnson Clinical Scholar at Johns Hopkins and a Henry Luce Scholar in Indonesia. Dr. Wartman is currently recognized internationally for his work in the organization and management of academic health centers, where he has taken the lead on critical issues such as the need for alignment among an institution’s clinical, research, and education programs. In 2008, he founded AAHC International™ (AAHCI), a global organization dedicated to improving health and well-being worldwide. In 2012, he edited Confluence of Policy and Leadership in Academic Health Science Centers, published by Radcliffe Press that for the first time provided a comprehensive overview of the academic health center enterprise. He authored in 2014 a new guide, Searching for Leadership: Best Practices for Academic Institutions, that describes characteristics of successful leaders and a detailed analysis of the process to select them. In 2015 Elsevier published The Transformation of Academic Health Science Centers, the definitive work on the future of these vital institutions, which he edited. He has received numerous awards and honorary degrees, most recently the 2015 Johns Hopkins School of Medicine’s Distinguished Medical Alumnus Award.
“Remember the Suffering” John A. Burns School of Medicine University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa May 17, 2020 Steven A. Wartman, M.D., Ph.D, MACP Dean Hedges Members of the Platform Party Faculty, Staff, Family Members and Friends And, of course, the Class of 2020 It is a great honor to speak to you today on the occasion of your Convocation. Of course I want to be with you in person, see your faces, perhaps meet your guests, but – as you know – that’s neither possible nor wise. But the events that have led to the present situation offers the opportunity to send a larger and far more reaching message than I might have delivered under different circumstances. As I focus today on your accomplishments and the world of medicine that you will be a vital part of, we must not forget the many others who deserve our deepest thanks: The School’s leaders, teachers, and staff; and those who have supported you along the way - families, spouses, partners, and friends. I have many thoughts as I address you. You have accepted the challenge of caring for others, and nothing illustrates this more vividly than the health professions’ response to the COVID-19 pandemic. You have chosen to enter a noble field, a field that is a true calling – and I am proud of you for doing so. And, as you go forward, your diversity is a powerful representation of society’s hopes, dreams, needs and capabilities. It is a privilege for me to share the glow of your real accomplishment. My talk today is tempered by the realization that beginning immediately after I finish, and lasting a lifetime, no one will remember who the convocation speaker was! But I am reminded of something attributed to Maya Angelou. She said “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” So I aspire today to express a message that you will “feel” throughout your career.
And that is: the importance of remembering the suffering of those who seek your professional help. This message is relevant regardless of your chosen field in healthcare. It sounds simple, but in the course of a busy professional life it could easily get lost. Arguably, medicine, science, and healthcare are undergoing the fastest and most significant changes in their history. Let’s take a moment to look backward and forward. When I graduated from medical school, about a thousand years ago, the world that I worked in as a resident, fellow, and eventually faculty member would be barely recognizable today. Can you imagine a world without personal computers, cell phones, or the internet? Admitting patients to the hospital back then often included, in addition to those who were acutely ill, patients whose blood pressures or blood sugars were just a little out of whack, or who needed some routine GI studies. Of course, we would never admit these patients today, as our hospitals have essentially become fast-paced, rapid turnover ICUs. But it never occurred to me as I was going through my education and training how different medicine might become over the course of my career. I’m not sure why I didn’t think more about it, probably because I was so caught up in what I was doing that I didn’t take the time to do so. But today we are constantly hearing and thinking about the future, a future driven by great leaps in technology, which, I believe, are fundamentally reshaping medicine and science. And the tech gurus tell us that the changes to come will be exponential in scope – such that the next 30 years will witness faster and even more dramatic changes than the past 30. Let’s see, 30 years from now will be the year 2050, when most of you will still be practicing your profession. What might it be like for you compared to today? A recent book I read provides an interesting perspective on the changes we are experiencing. The authors commented that our civilization is undergoing the profound shift from a print-based industrial society to a 1 technology-based internet society. This shift has been characterized as the “fourth industrial revolution” of human history, following steam, electricity, and electronics. A key feature of the fourth revolution is called the “technologic convergence,” which involves the integration of a whole range of technologies - such as big data, artificial intelligence, robotics, sensors, 3-D printing, crowd sourcing, nanotechnology, and many, many others – ————— 1
The Future of the Professions. Richard Susskind and Daniel Susskind, Oxford University Press: 2015.
all working together to create a vast connected, complex, and unpredictable infrastructure which will soon be communicating with each other and human users via 5G at the speed of human thought. By working together, these technologies can provide real-time information about patients along with the latest scientific findings to quickly inform both their care and subsequent research – data that is collated, organized and managed using artificially intelligent platforms. As a result of the technologic convergence a new ecology of healthcare 2 is being created, an ecology led by two fundamental transitions. First, a transition in the way health care is delivered. Examples include: more self-care by going online for information concerning diagnosis, referral, and self-management; and more virtual care by providers. Given the impact of the behaviors mandated by the COVID-19 pandemic, it is likely that virtual care has gotten a big and permanent boost. The result will be a change in the type of care normally taking place in hospitals and offices with the development of new models reliant on an expanding range of virtual technologies. The second transition is stimulated by the growing field of precision medicine, in which medical care is customized to optimize therapeutic benefit for a particular individual or select groups of patients, using tools such as genetic and molecular profiling. This particular transition speaks to a highly individualized form of healthcare that will increasingly rely on interdependent teams of health professionals using large data sets and sophisticated computer algorithms.
While these transitions open up important new avenues and techniques for healthcare and scientific research, they are also creating the potential for the development of a true learning healthcare system, where every patient and every scientific development informs care and treatment in real time. So it is clear that the fourth industrial revolution is bringing deep changes to the role and scope of the health professions as well as the directions of scientific research. These changes, I believe, make my theme today - remembering the suffering of those who seek your professional help – even more essential for the healthcare of the future. Of course there are other important forces that will impact healthcare, such as the changing medical marketplace and various social, environmental, and political developments. ————— 2
West J and Mehrotra A. The future ecology of care. Annals of Internal Medicine 2016;164:560-561.
While it’s probably wise not to make any definitive predictions about economics and politics, it’s increasingly clear – as evidenced by the current pandemic – that we as a profession have great concerns not only about healthcare financing, coverage and accessibility, but also about growing health inequalities and ecological challenges. I hope members of this graduating class will play a role in leading needed systematic changes. In effect, a new paradigm for healthcare is being created – something that would amaze and certainly disorient the historical greats of medicine, from Hippocrates to Osler. And this new paradigm in my opinion demands that we become expert at some new skills and even more accomplished at some old ones. Let’s look at some of the newer skills. First, the ability to be an effective curator of medical information. By “curator” I mean the ability to select and organize information so as to present professional and expert knowledge. Because the amount of medical information “out there” is enormous and widely available, it needs both the understanding and interpretation of a knowledgeable health provider. An essential skill for the 21st century clinician is the ability to fully comprehend and determine what information is trusted and accurate. Second, sophisticated mathematical (mainly statistical) skills will be necessary to understand and then communicate to patients the meaning of probabilities generated by computer algorithms. Analyses by smart computers of hundreds or potentially thousands of data points for a single patient, including not just blood tests and imaging, but also information coming directly from the patients’ bodies using wearables and insideables, will produce a series of probabilities. For example, the algorithm might conclude that the patient has an 81% chance of having disease X, or a 66% chance of responding to treatment Y. In other words, healthcare providers must be proficient in understanding the implications of these probabilities and then explaining them to patients in a personalized and meaningful way. The third new skill is learning how best to work with machines. As pointed out in a prescient book, “machines and systems will work along3 side tomorrow’s professionals as partners” , and clinicians will need to be skilled in managing and collaborating with these ever evolving machines. ————— 3
Susskind R and Susskind D, op.cit.
And fourth, physicians must become adept in the oversight of delegated responsibilities within newly designed multiprofessional healthcare teams, as patient care becomes more complex and specialized. These four challenges may sound daunting, but I want to assure you that you will be prepared because of your already demonstrated abilities in self-learning and technological adoption. So let’s not lose sight of this most important observation:
YOU HAVE THE PRIVILEGE OF WORKING IN THE MOST EXCITING TIME IN THE HISTORY OF MEDICINE AND SCIENCE!!! Why do I say this? Science will further unlock the mysteries of biology with new insights into disease and aging. Researchers will investigate areas that were unimaginable just a few years ago. Highly effective and individualized therapies on an unprecedented scale will become available, with the result of enhancing health and well-being. I also believe that solutions will be found to ameliorate the insidious problem of health disparities, perhaps on a global scale using new and affordable technologies. But, you will recall, I also mentioned the need for expertise not just in some new skills, but also in some old ones. It’s very common at ceremonies and graduations to talk about health professionals’ duties to their patients. We affirm that we will do our best to provide our patients with honest and appropriate care – and, above all, do no harm. But there are two other duties I want you to consider. The first duty is to always remember that patients are your most important teachers, beyond the medical literature, colleagues, grand rounds, artificial intelligence, or the growing virtual world of knowledge. It is through learning from patients that you become the best clinicians you can be. Because of this, every working day you owe each and every patient your gratitude and respect.
The second duty brings me to my theme – remembering the suffering of those who seek your professional help. Channeling Maya Angelou, I hope to make you feel its vital importance in your professional lives. Remembering the suffering is the very definition of compassion in 4 healthcare. And it is this skill of compassion that may be the most important of all in the coming era of technologically-enhanced healthcare. ————— 4 From The Power of Myth with Bill Moyers. Anchor Books, 1991.
A famous computer scientist reflected 40 years ago that “There are some things people come to know only as a consequence of having been treat5 ed as human beings by other human beings.” And the writer Anatole Broyard put it another way: “Not every patient can be saved, but illness 6 may be eased by the way caregivers respond.” These important observations have been so well reflected in the challenges of delivering compassionate care to COVID-19 patients in ICUs, where loved ones are not present and the faces of care givers are obscured and their voices muffled. To my great pride and admiration, we have seen how the health professions have risen to this challenge and exemplified the true meaning of compassion. They are honoring – as you will – what medicine has known for millennia: the paramount importance of concern for the sufferings and misfortunes of others. They are demonstrating – as you will – the ability to provide the human services that patients need: to go beyond probabilities to address uniquely human complexities. They are respecting – as you will – the rights of patients to make choices according to their values, and understanding how these values impact care decisions. They are putting – as you will – the needs of patients first. The response of all front-line healthcare workers demonstrates the incredible dedication and countless acts of self-sacrifice that exemplify the true meaning and high calling of our profession, a calling that is altruistic, humane and driven by high ideals.
I would also like to pay my respects at this time to the many individuals outside of the healthcare sector who have stepped up to provide needed services such as food preparation and distribution, deliveries, public works and so many other essential activities. I mentioned earlier that the greats of medicine, like Hippocrates and Osler, would be amazed and disoriented by many of the changes taking place in medicine. But they would be very comfortable with this part of my talk! Hippocrates is credited with having written: “It is more important to know what sort of person has a disease than to know what sort of disease a person has.” And Osler has said that “Medicine is science of uncertainty and an art of probability.” ————— 5
Joseph Weizenbaum. Computer Power and Human Reason. W.H. Freeman and Company, 1976. 6
Adapted from Intoxicated By My Illness. Anatole Broyard, Ballentine Books, 1992.
I implore you, as you begin your careers, to be guided by the importance of sympathy and concern for the sufferings and misfortunes of others, to remain idealistic and driven by high ideals, and to be steered by the principle that patients are your best teachers. Your skill in delivering compassionate care will endure the test of time, and serve you well in both your professional and personal lives, regardless of the changes coming down the road. In conclusion, I wish all of you, on the threshold of such a promising yet daunting future, a world filled by achievement, fulfillment, peace, and – above all – compassion. As Maya Angelou has said, “When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.” CONGRATULATIONS AND GOOD LUCK!
ʻOhiʻa Lehua
Convocation 2020 Class Messages and Lei Presenter Danielle Dawn Agcaoili Acacio, MD Thank you to my parents, brothers, and all the friends that believed in me all these years. Lei Presenters: Sol & Felo Acacio
Asia R.K. Ayabe, MD Thank you God, Mom, Dad, Reed, Thanh, Maile, and Mike! Lei Presenter: Dr. Ronald Ayabe
Jin Young Bae, MD Blessed to share this day with all of you. Thank you Mom, Dad, Jane, Charlie, and the wonderful friends and mentors I have made these last 4 years. I could not have done it without you! Lei Presenter: Esther & Myung-Hoon
Woo Ri Bae, MD Words cannot describe All my gratitude for my parents, Mr. Richard and Mrs. Christy Seaquist, All the comfort and joy I find in my partner, Andrew Wong, All the lessons from my teachers and patients, And all the good times we’ve shared, dear friends. Aloha ‘oe, until we meet again. Lei Presenter: The late Dr. Curtis Kamida
Vladimir G. Bernstein, MD Before emergency medicine, I briefly considered psychiatry, but my brother said to me, "Vlad, I love you, but I can't come home and sit at the dinner table with 3 shrinks." So, to Zalman: you're welcome. Lei Presenter: Dr. David Bernstein
Qian (Michael) Bian, MD Congratulations class of 2020! Very fortunate to be graduating alongside you all. I want to thank my parents, my fiancée, and my friends for their love and support. I wish you all the best of luck, and to visit Canada when you can! Lei Presenter: DongHong Yang and Peter Bian
Convocation 2020 Class Messages and Lei Presenter Christa D. Brown, MD “Wherever the art of Medicine is loved, there is also a love of Humanity. ” ― Hippocrates. Thank you to God, family, mentors, friends, and patients who inspire me to love well through the art of medicine. Without you I would not have the stamina to continue on this journey. With you, I not only have stamina, but true joy. Lei Presenter: Laura C. DeVilbiss
Bryston Y.N. Chang, MD Thanks Mom and Dad for your support. I couldn’t have done this without you. I love you and hope I make you proud. Thanks Winston and Carl for keeping me in check and lifting me up. Thank you to my friends and relatives, you all helped make this journey possible Lei Presenter: Arthur Fong & Henry Chang
Monet M.M. Cheung, MD To my parents, without you both selflessly placing every stepping stone in front of me, I simply would not have arrived. I could not become anyone other than Dr. Cheung. This is yours as much as it is mine. Lei Presenter: Kyong & Wesley Cheung
Caitlin M. Clark, MD Thank you to my wonderful family who have supported me throughout medical school. I couldn't have done it without you. And I'm honored to be sharing this day (virtually) with all of you, who have worked and sacrificed more than we could have known initially. We did it! Lei Presenter: Cathy Clark
ʻOhiʻa Lehua
Tru C. Dang, MD That’s me on the night of my first birthday. According to my parents, I just stood up and started walking for the first time. So pop quiz, did I meet my pediatric milestones? Also can you guess my favorite color? Thanks, Mom and Dad. This kid is all grown up! Lei Presenter: The Dang Family
Ryan M. Ebisu, MD Thank you to my family, friends and JABSOM for making all of this possible. I could not have done it without you! Lei Presenters: Roy & Norma Ebisu
Kaitlynn M. Ebisutani, MD A huge thank you to my family, friends, and mentors for all your love and support throughout this journey. These achievements would not be possible without you all. To the class of 2020, I wish you all my best as you begin your next adventure. Can I get a cheehoo?! Lei Presenter: Dr. Melvin Palalay
Michael T. Fujita, MD Shout-outs to my family (Jon, Brenda, Jenny, Jason); to all my mentors who built me up. I'll never forget the lessons learned along the way, like how the mitochondria is the powerhouse of the cell. Lastly, shout-outs to my smash brothers: Dan, Eddy, Kai, and Chris. We made it boys. Lei Presenter: Jon & Brenda Fujita
Joseph Raymond Tanael Go, MD Class of 2020, I wouldn't pick any other class to graduate with during a global pandemic. You're all 2020 visionaries, I'll miss you, and I hope we all get to work together again some day. And to my family and friends, thank you for believing in my dreams. Lei Presenter: Jesse & Rosemarie Go
Alison M. Goo, MD Winnie the Pooh says, “it isn’t much good having anything exciting, if you can’t share it with somebody.” Words cannot express how grateful I am to share this moment with all of you. Mom and Dad, thank you for literally giving me everything – your love, life and support. Lei Presenter: Mari & Gerald Goo
Convocation 2020 Class Messages and Lei Presenter Audrey Masako Hagiwara, MD Thank you to my loved ones, friends, fellow classmates, and JABSOM faculty for all the support you've given me on this journey. My successes and accomplishments would not have been possible without all of you. Lei Presenter: Victor Higa & Masako Hagiwara
Greg J. Harbison, MD Medicine is a science of uncertainty and an art of probability - Dr. William Osler Lei Presenter: Katharine Demmon
Chaewon Im, MD Thank you to my mom and dad who sacrificed so much for me to be here today. Thank you to my sister, Dan, and all the friends, mentors, and loved ones who have supported me so immensely. I will always try my best to make you proud. Lei Presenter: Kyungmi & Bonghyuk Im
Brandon I.Y.C. Ing, MD I'd like to thank God, family, friends, professors and mentors who have supported me on my journey towards becoming a physician. I am incredibly blessed to have been a part of the JABSOM community and I look forward to the next adventure in residency. Congratulations fellow MDs of 2020! Lei Presenter: Wendy Ing
ĘťOhiĘťa Lehua
Carrie G. Ip, MD Why did the sun go to school? ... It wanted to be brighter! Thank you to my mom, dad, sister, friends, and Francis for making my life brighter everyday. I would not be where I am today without your undying love and support. To the Class of 2020, shine on! Thank you for all the memories! Lei Presenter: Francis Sakai-Kawada
Laura Ashley Tsuruko Kagami, MD Mom and Dad – Words will never be enough to express how much I love you and how thankful I am. To my siblings, nieces, and nephews and friends - I couldn't have done it without you! Grandma Winnie - I miss you, but I know that you’re here with me today. This one's for you! Lei Presenters: Jean & Wayne Kagami
Kaimana Kalei, MD Lei Presenter: Sasha Fernandes, MD
Brittni N.M.Kam, MD I can’t believe today is here. I remember so vividly, the ambitious little girl who dreamt of becoming a doctor someday. I am grateful, humbled, and immensely thankful to my partner, mom, dad, brothers & grandmas for always supporting me and believing in me. WE FINALLY MADE IT!!! NO MORE FAFSA! Lei Presenter: The Kam & Nagaki Family
Brysa Tin Wai Kato, MD All my life my parents have told me, “Hard work pays off." Thank you, Mom and Dad. Today, I can finally say, "it paid off." Lei Presenter: Bryan & Lisa Kato
Kaily A.M. Kuikahi, MD Big mahalo to my day 1 boys for enduring medical school with me. I can't imagine it any other way. It's been a good ride fam! Lei Presenter: Dr. Sasha Fernandes
Convocation 2020 Class Messages and Lei Presenter Andrew M. Kuriyama, MD Thank you to all of my friends and family who have supported me throughout the years! Lei Presenter: Stanley & Christine Kuriyama
Geoffrey Kaya Kusaka, MD Thank you to my family and friends who picked me up and helped me grow - my show goes on both because of, and for, all of you. Lei Presenter: The Kusaka Family
Alda E. Lam, MD Thank you Mom, Dad, Albert, family, friends, and mentors for helping me get here today. We did it! Lei Presenter: Bao & Loi Lam
Kaahukane Gabriel Leite-Ah Yo, MD I'll always remember the nurse who kindly reminded me that my face mask was inside out during a delivery, and the man who came to the ED with a roach stuck in his ear. These four years has filled my life with value, laughter, and many amazing stories. Mahalo JABSOM. Lei Presenter: Briana Leite-Ah Yo
Eddy K.W. Leung, MD A big thank you to my family and faculty mentors. To all my friends--my ‘Imi ohana, running group, gym buddy, and super smash bros —the good times will stay with me forever. Lei Presenter: Roy & Michele Leung
ʻOhiʻa Lehua
Scott Liu, MD I'd like to thank my mom, my friends, my cat, and everyone else who helped carry me here--y'all had the hardest job of all. We've reached the promised land! Lei Presenter: Yali Shu
Jaymes A.J. Lonzanida, MD A wise resident once told me that MD stands for two things - make diagnoses and make decisions. I'd like to add that MD also stands for making a difference. Congratulations Class of 2020. Lei Presenters: Alicia Ancho
Hollyann F.M.S. Loui, MD It seems impossible that almost four years have passed since our first day at JABSOM. These years have been filled with blood (and other bodily fluids), sweat, tears, and some of the best moments of my life. Thank you to my amazing mentors, patients, friends, and most of all my incredibly loving family. I am excited to move forward with my medical training but I will always cherish these times. Lei Presenter: Derek & Jennifer Loui
James Ha , MD Lei Presenter: The Ha Family
Derron H. Maki , MD I want to thank my parents, grandma, Lindsey, and the rest of my family and friends...we did it! I love you all and would not be here without your love and support. Lei Presenter: Randall & Sandra Maki
Lucas A. Heldt Manica, MD I want to thank all the people that I met through this amazing journey, but I want to say a very special thanks to my mom and my wife Kirby for their unwavering support and patience and to my dogs Foxy and Penny for their unconditional love. Lei Presenter: Kirby Heldt Manica
Convocation 2020 Class Messages and Lei Presenter Scott Robert Marison Jr., MD To my parents, you’ve always been my greatest supporters. Thank you for everything you've taught me, I wouldn't be where I am today without you both. And to my classmates, it’s been an amazing four years. I wish all of you the best! Lei Presenter: Guang Marison & Scott Marison Sr.
Daniel H. Miyamoto, MD Thank you to my family, friends, and mentors for your support throughout the years. I couldn't have made it this far without your help, thank you for always believing in me. Shout outs to the Smash Braddahs for the good games and good times. Lei Presenter: Richard & Gail Miyamoto
Charis A. Mok, MD After countless case-mapping sessions and late-night food runs, I cannot imagine going through medical school with anyone else, and I look forward to having you all as my colleagues. Lei Presenter: Jacqueline Mok
Kayla Akemi Murata, MD Today we become doctors. We're on our way. No virus can take this moment away. To my friends who studied and survived with me, I can't wait to finally say, "Long time no see!" To my loved ones and mentors who stood by my side, This degree would be nothing without you along for the ride. Lei Presenter: Fujie Murata
ʻOhiʻa Lehua
Andi Trinh Ngo, MD From pharmacy to psychiatry-I'll never pay off my loans if I do law next. I'd like to thank my family and JABSOM for giving me this opportunity. I'll see you where the wind takes me. Lei Presenter: Van Hap Ngo & Kimlan Trinh
Christina Ji Eun Park, MD Thank you family and friends for supporting me through medical school! :) Lei Presenter: Young Bok Park & Hyun Ja Shin
Kara M. Paul, MD Congratulations Class of 2020 - we did it! I can't believe it's already over. Thank you all for welcoming me with open arms since day one. I am so proud to walk alongside each and every one of you as we begin the next chapter of this crazy ride. When all the dust settles, we are going to throw a reunion luau like the world has never seen. P.S. Do I get a kama'aina discount now? Lei Presenters: Daniel & Marilyn Paul, Bob Morton
Keano Royer Pavlosky, MD We made it, everyone. Good luck to you all. Don't be a jerk, never sell yourself short, always do work that makes you proud, and take good care in all areas of your life. And remember that whatever happens, it is never too late to reinvent yourself. Lei Presenter: Mark Royer
Blake M.M. Pinell, MD Thank you to my family, friends, and mentors who have helped to shape me into the person I am today. I will never forget all the amazing friendships and memories I’ve made during these past four incredible years. I hope I continue to make you all proud. Lei Presenter: Roger & Sandra Pinell
Convocation 2020 Class Messages and Lei Presenter Kanoe Quibelan , MD First, thank you Lord for Your faithfulness in getting me through medical school! To my family, thanks for your unwavering support—words can’t express how much I love you. Thanks to my friends and mentors for encouraging and standing by me. I wouldn’t be here today without all of you…Mahalo! Lei Presenter: Quibelan `Ohana & Anthony Kinsey
Keith Gumabon Sablan, MD I would like to thank my family and friends both here on Oahu and on Guam for everything you have done for me, especially Ray J, Mom and Dad, and Auntie Lori and Uncle Mark. Without your love and full support, I would not be here today. I love you all! Lei Presenter: Ray Gumataotao
Kody Sacks-Moynihan, MD Kody would like to thank his parents and his girlfriend, Leanna for all their love and support over the years. He would also like to thank the class of 2020 for their support while moving from the mainland, with special shout out to JHEM, Commissioner Ryan Yee and the MS4 Basketball Squad and Geoff Yee for his endless car rides. Lei Presenter: Kevin Moynihan
Megan A. Stevenson, MD Thank you JABSOM and the Class of 2020 for an amazing four years! It has been an honor to have shared this journey with each of you. Lei Presenter: Majella Stevenson
ʻOhiʻa Lehua
Jaskirat S. Takhar, MD "Great works are performed not by strength but by perseverance - Samuel Johnson" - Medical School Lei Presenter: Balvinder & Surinder Takhar
Christopher T. Tanabe, MD Thank you to my friends and family for all your support over these past few years and to the faculty for all of your guidance. Lei Presenter: Dr. Marianne Tanabe
Bryce K. Tanaka, MD Thank you mom and dad for your years of unpaid labor as chauffeur, cook, house cleaner, accountant, tutor, therapist, and advisor. I couldn’t have accomplished as much without you. Thank you to all my mentors, doctors, and friends for all your support. And thank you class of 2020. Lei Presenter: David & Shari Tanaka
Christopher K. Tokeshi, MD To mom, dad and Jasmine: thank you for all your support! I am so grateful for everything you have done for me. Shantha, thanks for always being there for me! Let's get ice cream after this. Lei Presenters: The Tokeshi Family
Andrew S. Tokumi, MD I want to thank my family for supporting me 100% ever since I was a kid. What a journey. I also want to thank Dr. Asano and the Admissions Committee for accepting me and giving me a chance to study medicine. Mahalo nui loa. Lei Presenter: Carl & Sung Mi Tokumi
Zachary J. Tom, MD There are good ships, there are bad ships, but the best ships, are med school friendships. See you all at Shirokiya. Lei Presenter: Dr. Richard Tom
Convocation 2020 Class Messages and Lei Presenter Nicholas Q. Tran, MD "The desire to sacrifice an entire lifetime to the noblest of ideals serves no purpose if one works alone." Lei Presenter: Hanh Nguyen
Sai V. Tummala, MD To my parents, grandparents and sister watching at home, thank you for everything. To my Hawai’i family, you mean more to me than I can put into words. Lei Presenter: P.K. Amma
Erica Lyn Lam Warkus, MD Thank you for everything, Dr. Marikawa, Dr. Haning, Dr. Thompson, Dr. Turban and Dr. Evans. I couldn't have done this without you. To my family, friends, and dogs: you mean the world to me. Terima Kasih dan sampai jumpa! Lei Presenter: Dr. Yusuke Marikawa
Hall Wu, MD Lei Presenter: Wu Xia and Zuojun Yu
Eri A. Yamaguchi, MD Thank you, mom and dad, for your support and love throughout the years. You’ve continued to be there for me through all my adventures, and I love you both! And thank you to faculty and fellow 2020 visionaries for the wonderful memories these past four years. Lei Presenter: Masahiro & Hitomi Yamaguchi ʻOhiʻa Lehua
Geoff W. Yee, MD Thanks for the memories everyone! Lei Presenter: The Yee Family
Ryan K.W. Yee, MD Popo and Gung Gung - Thank you for everything! I wouldn’t be here without you guys and your endless supply of spam musubis. I also want to give a shout out to my brother and cousins. May we continue to work hard and make our parents proud. Lei Presenter: Marion & Vernon Von
AWARDS ACP Award for Excellence in Internal Medicine: Recognizes the most outstanding senior entering an Internal Medicine program. The Hawai`i Chapter of the American College of Physicians sponsors this award. Awarded to Joseph R.T. Go, MD
ACP Bernard Yim, MD Award: Awarded to the student who best exemplified excellence in their third year internal medicine clerkship. Awarded to Audrey M. Hagiwara, MD
E.E. Black Community Service Award: Recognizes achievement in medical school as well as commitment to the school and community service through extracurricular work. Awarded to: Brandon I.Y.C. Ing, MD; Megan A. Stevenson, MD; Joseph R.T. Go, MD; Kayla A. Murata, MD.
Maurice Brodsky Memorial Award: Established in 1983 in memory of Dr. Brodsky, an authority on the treatment of tuberculosis and a key figure in the establishment of the John A. Burns School of Medicine. The award recognizes a student displaying excellence in pulmonary medicine. Awarded to Joseph R.T. Go, MD
Walter F. Char, MD Prize in Psychiatry: Established in honor of Dr. Char, Founder and first Chair of the Department of Psychiatry. This award recognizes the senior with the best clinical clerkship in psychiatry. Awarded to Caitlin M. Clark, MD
Dr. Albert C. K. Chun-Hoon Award for Community Service: Established in memory of Dr. Albert C. K. Chun-Hoon. This award honors a medical student who has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to community service and who shows future potential to lead, by example, in assisting underserved members of the Hawai`i community. Awarded to Jin Y. Bae, MD
Windsor and Mary Cutting Excellence in The Basic Medical Sciences Award: Dr. Windsor Cutting was an internationally renowned academician, a basic medicine scientist, and a clinician. He held many positions in academia during his distinguished career, including Dean of the Stanford School of Medicine and Founding Dean of the John A. Burns School of Medicine. Mary Cutting founded and served as President of the Friends of the Medical School. This award honors a member of the graduating class for scholarly excellence in the basic biomedical sciences. Awarded to Jaskirat S. Takhar, MD
Society of Academic Emergency Medicine Award: Presented in recognition of excellence in emergency medicine. SAEM represents academic and research pursuits of the American College of Emergency Physicians. Awarded to Ryan M. Ebisu, MD
Hawai`i Academy of Family Physicians Outstanding Student Award: Established in 1995 to recognize excellence in family medicine. Awarded to Michael Qian Bian, MD
Hawai`i Lions Foundation Ophthalmology Award: Established in 2003, it is presented to a student in recognition of outstanding scholastic achievement and an interest in ophthalmology. Awarded to Jaskirat S. Takhar, MD
The Drs. Diane L. Ching and Andrew K. Feng Pediatric Award (H.E.R.O. Award): This award is established to assist a JABSOM medical student who demonstrates humility, enthusiasm, reliable and optimistic qualities especially suited for a career in Pediatrics. Awarded to Carrie G. Ip, MD Hawai`i Medical Association Alliance Endowment Award: Established in 1998 to recognize community service and academic achievement. Awarded to: Christa D. Brown, MD, and Christina J. Park, MD
Dr. Laura Weldon Hoque Award: Established in 2010 in memory of Dr. Laura Weldon Hoque, an outstanding breast surgeon, whose compassion and leadership helped raise the standard for women’s cancer care in Hawai`i. This award honors a future surgeon who exemplifies Dr. Hoque’s combination of clinical excellence, compassionate care and tireless leadership. Awarded to Kelsey K. Pavlosky, MD
ʻOhiʻa Lehua
AWARDS The Glenn M. Kokame, MD Endowed Memorial Award for Surgery: Recognizes an outstanding 4th year student pursuing a career in surgery or a surgical subspecialty, who demonstrates academic excellence, potential for outstanding surgical skills, and a caring and warm touch in patient care. Awarded to Sailesh V. Tummala, MD
Dr. Frank and Mary McDowell Award: Established in 1983 in memory of Dr. McDowell, a surgeon, who was involved in the Hawai`i Medical Library and its affiliation with the medical school. The award recognizes excellence in surgery. Awarded to Greg J. Harbison, MD
Philip I. McNamee, MD Endowed Award: This award supports 4th year medical students who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in Obstetrics and Gynecology and are interested in pursuing a career in gynecologic surgery. Awarded to Asia R.K. Ayabe, MD
Merck Award for Academic Excellence: This award is given to two graduating students who excelled at the highest level in their 3rd year clerkships. Awarded to Megan A. Stevenson, MD, and Sailesh V. Tummala, MD
John M. Ohtani, MD Award: Established in 1983 in memory of Dr. Ohtani, Professor of Obstetrics & Gynecology. It recognizes scholastic achievement, enthusiasm, dedication and willingness to learn. Awarded to Kaitlynn M. Ebisutani, MD Office of Medical Education Kako`o Award: This award is given to the senior that has best helped to promote the mission and activities of the Office of Medication Education and medical education in general at JABSOM. Awarded to Kayla A. Murata, MD
Physicians’ Anesthesia Endowed Award: Established in 2013 by Physicians` Anesthesia to recognize a student who demonstrates a high level of professionalism, who will be entering into an accredited anesthesiology residency program, and who intends to return to practice in Hawai`i upon completion of his or her training. Awarded to Kara M. Paul, MD
Po`okela No`eau Award: Established in 1997 by the Friends of the Medical School to recognize the student with characteristics which best exemplify the qualities of the ideal physician. Recipient selected by class vote. Awarded to Joseph R.T. Go, MD Po`okela Noi`i Award: Established in 1997 by the Friends of the Medical School to recognize outstanding research. Recipient selected by a faculty panel. Awarded to Jaskirat S. Takhar, MD
Aequanimitas No`ono`o Pono Award:
Established in 2013 by the Friends of the Medical School to recognize the student who best demonstrates imperturbability in all situations and responds quickly, calmly and accurately in providing medical assistance. Awarded to Joseph R.T. Go, MD
Reddy Award in Pediatrics: Established by Drs. Venu and Vijaya Reddy to recognize a graduating senior for academic merit and outstanding achievement in pediatrics. Awarded to Laura A. T. Kagami, MD
Dr. Volt H. Tom Excellence in Geriatric Medicine Award: Awarded to the student who has shown the most commitment to geriatric medicine. Awarded to: Christa D. Brown, MD, and Alison M. Goo, MD
Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Award presented by The Arnold P. Gold Foundation: Recognizes a student and faculty of exemplary compassion, competency and respect in the delivery of care. Awarded to Royce Shimamoto, MD (faculty) and Joseph R.T. Go, MD (student) The Terry C. Y. Wong, MD Memorial Award: Established in 2004 in memory of Dr. Wong, Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine, to recognize the student who demonstrates a spirit of patient advocacy with academic excellence in internal medicine. Awarded to Alison M. Goo, MD
ĘťOhiĘťa Lehua
AWARDS Yazawa Family Endowed Award: Established by Dr. Keijiro Yazawa and Mrs. Kayoko Yazawa in 2000. The award is presented to the student who is a member of the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society and demonstrates financial need. Awarded to Chaewon Im, MD
Kaiser-Permanente Excellence in Teaching Awards: Presented to two outstanding teachers: One from the pre-clinical curriculum directly chosen by student poll, and the other from the clinical disciplines, selected from nominations submitted by the clinical departments, reflective of teaching excellence in the third and fourth year clinical curriculum. In addition to these awards, Kaiser Permanente also supports the ongoing training and development of JABSOM faculty. Awarded to Vernadeth Alarcon, MD (Pre-Clinical) and Chad Cryer, MD (Clinical)
John M. Hardman, MD Award for Mentoring in Teaching: Presented to a faculty member selected by students, who best emulates Dr. Hardman’s passion, grace and devotion to foster their intellectual, professional and personal growth. Awarded to Richard Kasuya, MD
Aloha Award: Given by the Office of Student Affairs to the senior student who, over the course of his/her tenure at the medical school, most personified the Aloha Spirit. Awarded to Kayla A. Murata, MD and Brittni N.M. Kam, MD
ʻOhiʻa Lehua
JABSOM gratefully acknowledges the following donors for their generous support of Convocation 2020.
Best Wishes to the Class of 2020
White Coat Ceremony, 2016
A special Mahalo
to all the hard working staff, community partners, Class of 2020 to bring you this special ceremony and Monet Cheung who graciously produced the student slideshow.