John A. Burns School of Medicine University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa
CONVOCATION CEREMONY Honoring the
CLASS OF 2021
Saturday, May 15th, 2021 5:00 pm
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.
ʻOhiʻa 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” Dee-Ann Carpenter, MD Martina Kamaka, MD Malia Lee, MD Opening Remarks Jill Omori, MD Message from the Mayor Mayor Rick Blangiardi Presentation of the Class of 2021 Lawrence Burgess, MD & Kristen Teranishi, MD Keynote Address David Skorton, MD Welcome from the Class of 2021 Nicole Anzai, MD Class President Charge to the Class Jerris R. Hedges, MD, MS, MMM Oath of Hippocrates Damon Sakai, MD Closing Remarks Ivy Nip Asano, MD
DOCTOR OF MEDICINE ~ Name Hometown Prior degree • Specialty Field • Residency Program Charles Kawena Akiona, MD Kailua, Hawai´i BA, 2017, Biology, University of Southern California MS 2017, Global Medicine, University of Southern California • Anesthesiology • UCLA Medical Center Los Angeles, CA Lucia Paula Amore, MD + * Honolulu, Hawai´i BS, 2017, Dietetics, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa • Family Medicine • Swedish Medical Center Seattle, WA Nicole Etsuko Anzai, M.D. + Honolulu, Hawai‘i BS, 2012, Psychology, Santa Clara University • Psychiatry/Child/Research • NYU Grossman School of Medicine New York, NY Malia A. Brennan, MD Honolulu, Hawai‘i BA, 2016, Psychology & Biology, Georgetown University • General Surgery • University of Washington Affil. Hospitals Seattle, WA
The Class of 2021
David G. K. Camacho, MD Hilo, Hawai´i BS, 2016, Biochemistry, University of Washington • Transitional • Virginia Mason Medical Center Seattle, WA • Radiology-Diagnostic • University of Washington Affil. Hospitals Seattle, WA Max Pono Castanera, MD Ω + Mōkapu, Kailua, Hawai´i BS, 2016, Biophysics, University of Washington BS, 2016, Biochemistry, University of Washington • Family Medicine • Tacoma Family Medicine Tacoma, WA Bolin L. Chang, MD Honolulu, Hawai‘i BS, 2016, Biology and Molecular Biology, Lehigh University • Internal Medicine • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI Bryce Kaleiokalaihalia Chang, MD * Kailua, Hawai‘i BA, 2016, Chemistry, St. Olaf College, Northfield, MN • Neurology • Mayo Clinic School of GME Rochester, MN
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 ~ Karen H. Chang, MD Ω Honolulu, Hawai‘i BA, 2015, Neurobiology and Behavior, Cornell University • Internal Medicine • Kaiser Permanente Hawaii Honolulu, HI Julie A. Crocker, MD Honolulu, Hawai‘i BS, 2014, Biology, Northeastern University • Medicine-Preliminary/Neurology • Oregon Health & Science University Portland, OR • Neurology • Oregon Health & Science University Portland, OR Wilfred Oconer Del Mundo II, MD Cerritos, CA BS, 2015, Human Biology, University of California Irvine • Transitional • Riverside Community Hospital Riverside, CA • Radiology-Diagnostic • Indiana University School of Medicine Indianapolis, IN Norma Marie Deleon Elizaga, MD Dededo, Guam BS, 2015, Biology, University of Guam • General Surgery • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI
The Class of 2021
Mayumi Fernandez, MD Hawaiʻi Kai, Hawaiʻi BS, 2017, Molecular Cell Biology University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, • Pathology • University of Hawai´i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI Joshua Kekoa Freitas, MD * Mililani, Hawaiʻi BS, 2016, Biology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Internal Medicine • UC Davis Medical Center Sacramento, CA Arash Ghaffari-Rafi, MD Campbell, CA BS, 2014, Physiological Sciences, UCLA MSc 2019, Clinical Neuroscience, University College of London, Queen Square • Neurological Surgery • UC Davis Medical Center Sacramento, CA Edy Kaleimomi Gomes, MD * Maunawili, Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi BA, 2015, Hawaiian, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa • Family Medicine • University of Hawai´i Residency Programs Aiea, HI
Mari Grief, MD + * Honolulu, Hawai‘i BS, 2015, Biology and Japanese, University of Notre Dame MS 2017, Medical Physiology, Loyola Chicago University • Pediatrics • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI Mark Tarek Guirguis, MD Ω Honolulu, Hawai‘i BS, 2015, Biology, Chapman Universsity • Anesthesiology • UCLA Medical Center Los Angeles, CA Faith Danielle Hamamura, MD * Honolulu, Hawai‘i BA, 2015, Biology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Pediatrics • Loma Linda University Loma Linda, CA Holly A. Harada, MD Ω * Honolulu, Hawai‘i BA, 2017, Classics, University of Southern California BS, 2017, Human Biology, University of Southern California • Medicine - Primary • UC Davis Medical Center Sacramento, CA
William Harris, MD Ω + >* Kihei, Hawai‘i BA, 2016, Neuroscience, Colorado College • Neurological Surgery • University of Colorado School of Medicine-Denver Aurora, CO Sara Akemi Hayama, MD Mililani, Hawai‘i BS, 2013, Psychology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Pathology • University of Hawai´i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI Kori A. Higashiya, MD * Waimanalo, Hawai‘i BS, 2015, General Studies, Washington State University • Medicine-Preliminary • Loma Linda University Loma Linda, CA • Radiology, Diagnostic • Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital Santa Barbara, CA
Wakako Horiuchi, MD Honolulu, Hawai‘i BS, 2016, Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University • Obstetrics Gynecology • MedStar Washington Hospital Center Washington, DC
‘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 ~ Jonathan B. Huang, MD Honolulu, Hawai‘i BA, 2015, Biology, The Ohio State University • Internal Medicine • University of Cincinnati Medical Center Cincinnati, OH Chase Hwang, MD Honolulu, Hawai‘i BA, 2013, Biology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Pathology • University of Hawai´i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI
Sophia Jimenez, MD Hilo, Hawai‘i BS, 2014, Biological Science, Colorado State University at Fort Collins • General Surgery • St. Davids Healthcare GME Austin, TX Russell Dean Piʻimauna Kackley, MD * Hilo, Hawai‘i BA, 2012, Psychology, University of Colorado at Boulder • Family Medicine • Adventist Health Ukiah Valley Ukiah, CA Kameko M. Karasaki, MD Kailua, Hawai‘i BS, 2015, Molecular and Cellular Biology, Johns Hopkins University MS, 2016, Molecular and Cellular Biology, Johns Hopkins University • General Surgery • University of Hawai´i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI
The Class of 2021
Cherisse L.S. Kawamura, MD Ω + * ʻAiea, Hawai‘i BS, 2012, Health Promotion & Disease Prevention, University of Southern California MS, 2016, Global Medicine, University of Southern California • Family Medicine • University of Hawai´i Residency Programs Aiea, HI Andrew W.K. Ko, MD Ω * Honolulu, Hawai‘i BS, 2016, Biochemistry, University of Washington at Seattle • Transitional • Henry Ford Hospital Detroit, MI • Interventional Radiology • George Washington University Washington, DC Roxanne Leilani Ko, M.D. * Pālolo, Hawai‘i BA, 2009, Linguistics, Boston University BS, 2014, Microbiology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Family Medicine • New York Presbyterian HospitalColumbia University Medical Center New York, NY Landon A. Kozai, MD Honolulu, Hawai‘i BA, 2017, Economics, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Internal Medicine • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI
Selin Kutlu, MD * Menlo Park, CA BA, 2016, Molecular Biology & Biochemistry, Neuro-Science & Behavior, Wesleyan University MA, 2017, Molecular Biology & Biochemistry, Wesleyan University • Obstetrics Gynecology • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI Laurence Lea M. Lacar, MD ʻAiea, Hawai‘i BS, 2017, Biochemistry, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Obstetrics Gynecology • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI Esta Lai, MD Honolulu, Hawai‘i BA, 2016, Biology and Society, Cornell University • Family Medicine • University of Washington Affil. Hospitals Seattle, WA Jerrick Laimana, MD Kāneʻohe, Hawai‘i BA, 2016, Biochemistry, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Internal Medicine • Kaiser Permanente Hawaii Honolulu, HI
Tiffany W.S. Lau, MD Honolulu, Hawai‘i BS, 2017, Biological Sciences, Carnegie Mellon University • Pediatrics • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI Griffin Riant Lien-Tao Lee, MD * Honolulu, Hawai´i BA, 2017, English, Creighton University • Anesthesiology • UC Davis Medical Center Sacramento, CA Rebecca R. Lian, MD Ω San Diego, CA BA, 2015, Public Health, University of California Berkeley • Medicine-Prelim • UC San Diego Medical Center San Diego, CA • Ophthalmology • UC San Diego Medical Center San Diego, CA Michael Meno, MD Honolulu, Hawai´i BS, 2016, Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Internal Medicine • University of Washington Affil. Hospitals Seattle, WA
‘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 2021
Heather Rie Miura, MD + Honolulu, Hawai´i BA, 2014, Neuroscience & Behavior, Psychology Wesleyan University • Psychiatry • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI
Rui Morimoto, MD Honolulu, Hawai´i BS, 2015, Psychobiology, University of California, Los Angeles • Family Medicine • University of Hawai´i Residency Programs Aiea, HI
Taryn K. Miyake, MD * Honolulu, Hawai´i BS, 2017, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Chapman University • Internal Medicine • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI
Daniella Rhodora Binongcal Orias, MD Honolulu, Hawai´i BS, 2015, Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Family Medicine • University of Hawai´i Residency Programs Aiea, HI
Gabriel K. Monti, MD Ω * Cypress, CA BSc, 2015, Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, University of California, Los Angeles • Internal Medicine • Oregon Health Science • University Portland, OR
Shaun Pak, MD Los Angeles, CA BS, 2016, Biological Sciences, University of California, Irvine • Anesthesiology • UCLA Medical Center Los Angeles, CA Taylor Kai Peter-Bibb, MD Ω Kāneʻohe, Hawai´i BA, 2013, Chemistry, Willamette University • Emergency Medicine • George Washington University Washington, DC
‘Awa
Ω Member of Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society + Member of Gold Humanism Honor Society *Dean’s Certificate of Distinction (>* = multiple certificates)
Andrew T. Pham, MD * Honolulu, Hawaiʻi BS, 2017, Biology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Internal Medicine • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI Nolwenn Phan, MD * Honolulu, Hawaiʻi BA, 2012, French, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa BS, 2012 Microbiology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa MS, 2014, Microbiology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Anesthesiology • University of Washington Affil. Hospitals Seattle, WA Kelly Quinn, MD Bay Area, California BA, 2013, Molelular and Cell Biology, University of California Berkeley MS, 2015, Biochemistry and Moleular Biology, University of California, Los Angeles • Internal Medicine • Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles Los Angeles, CA Raja Haris Rizwan, MD Lahore, Pakistan BA, 2017, Honors Life Sciences, McMaster University • Internal Medicine • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI
Darreon K. Schwartz, MD Hawai‘i Kai, Hawai´i BA, 2017, Physics, University of Denver • Transitional • Tucson Hospitals Med. Ed. Tucson, AZ • Anesthesiology • Johns Hopkins Hospital Baltimore, MD Elisabeth M. Seamon, MD, MPH >* Honolulu, Hawai´i BS, 2014, Psychology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa MPH, 2016, Social and Behavioral Health Sciences, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Obstetrics Gynecology • SUNY Upstate Medical University Syracuse, NY Alexander Shin, MD Honolulu, Hawai´i BS, 2017, Biology, University of San Francisco • Psychiatry • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI Josiah N.P. Situmeang, MD Ω Honolulu, Hawai´i BA, 2017, Biology, Washington University in St. Louis • Internal Medicine • University of Utah Health Salt Lake City, UT Shirley So, MD Honolulu, Hawai´i BA, 2015, Chemistry, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa BA 2015, Biology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Internal Medicine • CA Pacific Medical Center San Francisco, CA
DOCTOR OF MEDICINE ~ Danielle Y. Sulllvian, MD Ω + * Honolulu, Hawai´i BS, 2015, Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University • Transitional • Riverside Community Hospital Riverside, CA • Dermatology • Indiana University SOM Indianapolis, IN Max Sunoo, M.D. Honolulu, Hawaiʻi BS, 2015, Biology, Chapman University • Emergency Medicine • Orlando Health Orlando, FL
The Class of 2021
Mari A. Ueno, M.D. * Wailuku, Hawaiʻi BS, 2016, Bioengineering, Santa Clara University • Pediatrics • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI Chase H. Warashina, M.D. Honolulu, Hawaiʻi BA, 2015, Biology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Internal Medicine • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI
Reese Katsuji Suzuki, M.D. Mililanii, Hawaiʻi BA, 2017, Biology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • Internal Medicine • Kaiser Permanente Hawaii Honolulu, HI
Amanda M. Wasko, M.D. * Honolulu, Hawaiʻi BS, 2016, Biological Sciences, Dominican University of California • Internal Medicine • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI
Kadee-Kalia M. Tamashiro, M.D. * Wailuku, Hawaiʻi BA, 2017, Biology & Hawaiian Studies, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa • General Surgery • UC San Francisco-Fresno Fresno, CA
Jana Wieland, M.D. Ω * Honolulu, Hawaiʻi BS, 2016, Biology, University of Washington • Internal Medicine • Mayo Clinic School of GME Rochester, MN
‘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
Shelley M.C. Wong, M.D. + >* Honolulu, Hawaiʻi BS, 2013, Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa RD, 2014, Registered Dietitian Internship, University of California San Francisco Medical Center • Psychiatry • University of Hawai‘i Residency Programs Honolulu, HI Ruiyang Yi, M.D. * Guangzhou, China BA, 2014, Statistics, Economics, University of Chicago Msc., 2015, Statistics, University of Toronto • Medicine – Medical Genetics • Baylor College of Medicine Houston, TX Chelsea Yin, M.D. >* Honolulu, Hawaiʻi BA, 2014, Chemistry, Occidental College • Internal Medicine/MPH • Kaiser Permanente Oakland Oakland, CA
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 Medical Education, Medical Innovation and Design, Native Hawaiian Health, Patient Safety and Quality Improvement, Research, Rural Health, and Social Justice,
Convocation 2021 Keynote Speaker: David Skorton, MD David J. Skorton, MD, is president and CEO of the AAMC (Association of American Medical Colleges), a not-forprofit association dedicated to transform-
ing health care through medical education, patient care, medical research, and community collaborations. Its members are all 155 accredited U.S. and 17 accredited Canadian medical schools, more than 400 teaching hospitals and health sys-
tems, including Department of Veterans Affairs medical centers; and more than 70 academic societies. Through these institutions and organizations, the AAMC serves the leaders of America’s medical schools and teaching hospitals and their more than 179,000 full-time faculty members, 92,000 medical students, 140,000 resident physicians, and 60,000 graduate students and postdoctoral researchers in the biomedical sciences. Dr. Skorton began his leadership of the AAMC in July 2019 after a distinguished career in government, higher education, and medicine. In his first year, Dr. Skorton led a comprehensive strategic planning process that established a new mission and vision for the AAMC and 10 bold action plans to tackle the nation’s most intractable chal-
lenges in health and health care and make academic medicine more diverse, equitable, and inclusive. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Skorton has shared the AAMC’s expertise in medical education, patient care, medical research, and health inequities and disparities. He has contributed to the national pan-
demic response through frequent interactions with senior government
officials, appearances in national media, and a new podcast called “Beyond the White Coat.” He and the AAMC were leading voices in sounding the alarm on shortages of personal protective equipment in hospitals, testing shortages in academic laboratories, and the importance of respecting science and the scientific process in efforts to fight the pandemic. When national protests erupted over police brutality, Dr. Skorton was a passionate and outspoken voice for ending systemic racism in academic medicine and addressing persistent health disparities. He also inspired the next generation of medical professionals through his “Heart to Heart” video series and speaking engagements at venues such as the Latino Medical Student Association and National Medical Fellowships, focusing on why now
is such an important time to enter the field of medicine. Throughout his career, Dr. Skorton has focused on issues of diversity and inclusion. A nationally recognized supporter of the arts and humanities, as well as an accomplished jazz musician and composer, Dr. Skorton believes that many of society’s thorniest problems can only be solved by combining
the sciences, social sciences, and the arts and humanities. He has published two major texts and hundreds of original research articles, reviews, opinion pieces, and book chapters on topics ranging from cardiac imaging and image processing to higher education to other broad issues of national concern. He is a member of the USA TODAY Board of Contributors, a diverse group of writers with a broad range of expertise and views that span the political
spectrum.
Pōpolo Berry
“The Class of Great Change Agents” John A. Burns School of Medicine University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa May 15, 2021 David Skorton, MD •
Aloha and congratulations! This is a moment of great achievement, and it culminates all the ups and downs, obstacles and celebrations you’ve experienced over the last four years. That dynamic experience is very much like the unpredictable practice of medicine itself.
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Over forty years ago, I was where you are, too, and I can relate to how you might be feeling – especially as my nephew graduated from the John A. Burns School of Medicine some years back as well.
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The day I received my own MD degree, I was thrilled to be starting a career that meant so much to me on a personal level. I still tear up thinking about that day.
As I received my degree, I felt the support of my friends and family – or “ohana,” as I think you’d say. I wouldn’t have made it without all they did for me during the tough days and nights of
medical school.
I want to take a moment to congratulate your own “ohana,” who deserve a special round of applause today too.
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But I was scared, too. Moving from being a medical student to mentoring the next class of medical students seemed daunting – especially when I learned I was scheduled to be on call the first night I reported
for my residency! •
I encourage you to acknowledge any fears you may be feeling too. But also know you will encounter people wherever you look who can help you – not just physicians, but nurses and, most importantly, listen to and learn from patients and their families.
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Especially in today’s diverse world, it’s more important than ever to listen to and learn from the authentic, lived experiences of our patients.
HOW COVID CHANGED THINGS •
Becoming a doctor doesn’t happen overnight. I know you’ve thought about this for years. Perhaps you had a vision of what your journey
would be like. •
Then COVID-19 was a harsh reminder: life is unpredictable. The same is true of medicine.
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Very quickly after spring break a year ago, you had to switch to virtual learning, and your rotations looked different.
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Let’s give credit to you and to your faculty, staff, and leaders who made
those unexpected changes possible so rapidly and successfully. •
But it’s not all a story of obstacles and disappointment.
WHAT THAT MEANS FOR YOU: THE QUALITIES YOU’VE ACHIEVED ALREADY •
COVID jump-started your own career, too.
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When the unexpected happened, you became amazing student advocates, working closely with your faculty, staff, administrators and each other as students to navigate an evolving situation.
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In the process, you’ve honed three skills that will be especially important for your future careers.
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One, you’ve learned to focus on people, not just science and disease.
Some of you helped make face shields for frontline providers. Others staffed the homeless clinic and conducted surveys on COVID’s impact on your community.
Along the way, you strengthened your skills in understanding people from diverse backgrounds. That will serve you well in your career.
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Two, you’ve learned to recognize and learn from your own emotions and
reactions. Certainly, 2020 brought fear and uncertainty, and no small amount of stress.
You responded by finding creative ways to stay connected, even working to teach faculty members ways to interact online. You reached out to support each other.
That is a lesson I hope you take forward throughout your career.
Understanding your own feelings, and knowing when to ask for help, will be critical throughout your medical career.
You most likely will need help and support at various times of your life. Please remember that medicine is a wonderful but demanding career, and it can be stressful. Your own health and well-being matters especially during difficult times.
If the day comes when you need extra help and support, please know that it is not a sign of weakness to ask for help, but a sign of wisdom and strength. I faced some of those times and gained enormously by asking for and receiving help.
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And three, just when you thought you were in the home stretch of your
training, you learned new ways of doing things, yet again. •
That’s just how learning in medicine works. We steadily gain expertise, but our learning can never stop. Because medicine is ever changing. Because your life is ever changing. Because each patient is different from anyone you’ve seen before.
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There’s a concept from Zen Buddhism called the “Beginner’s Mind.” As
the monk Shunryu Suzuki said, “In the Beginner’s Mind, there are many possibilities. In the expert’s mind, there are few.” •
You have explored many possibilities at a time when it seemed like there were few. And you didn’t give up. And you succeeded!
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR THE WORLD YOU’RE ENTERING
Your open-mindedness, flexibility, and advocacy are the antidote to
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what ails our nation, especially its rampant health inequities. In Hawaii, Pacific Islanders account for up to 24% of all COVID-19
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cases and 29% of all hospitalizations, while only making up 4% of the state’s population, for example.1 And health disparities are not just limited to COVID. For Native Hawaiians, the rate of chronic diseases is
three times greater than for the general population of Hawaii.2 Collectively, generations like mine have failed to address many of the
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roots of the problem – particularly our longstanding history of systemic racism and poverty. I admire the way your school has adopted “ALOHA” as an acronym for
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your vision, standing for “Attaining Lasting Optimal Health for All.” That inclusivity is exactly what we need at this time and going forward. It’s so important that we all continue to support marginalized communi-
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ties. My sincere thanks to those of you who plan to further your medical career right here in Hawaii, working with Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders, Filipinos, disenfranchised others and those living with many
social vulnerabilities given the high cost of living.3 Understanding the cultural, social, and geopolitical factors that affect a
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person’s health is especially important for your future career.
1
https://hawaiicovid19.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/COVID-19-Race-EthnicityEquity-Report.pdf 2
https://www2.jabsom.hawaii.edu/native/docs/community/ APNHPP/2020_NHOPI_Assessment_and_Priority_Rpt.pdf 3
https://health.hawaii.gov/coronavirusdisease2019/what-you-should-know/currentsituation-in-hawaii/ and https://www.unitedforalice.org/Attachments/ AllReports/2020ALICEReport_HI_FINAL.pdf
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As Dr. Atul Gawande, the author and surgeon at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, points out, “The problem with medicine and the institutions it has spawned for the care of the sick and the old is not that they have had an incorrect view of what makes life significant. The problem is that they have had almost no view at all. Medicine’s focus is narrow. Medical professionals concentrate on repair of health,
not sustenance of the soul.” •
He’s right. As you move on in your career, find every opportunity to engage with your patients, their families, and your community – and get to really know them, and what issues are important to them. Listen to them, and address their hopes, fears, and dreams.
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Your own well-being matters, too. Care for patients, yes – but also
care for yourself and your peers. •
I also want to offer that the Association of American Medical Colleges is another resource for you throughout your medical career, so please lean on us as you go forward in your journey. We’re here to help.
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Given how you’ve come together this past year, I’m confident that you will continue to look out for each other, while truly changing the
world. And I am confident – and I really mean this – that we “experts” will learn a lot from you! YOUR CHARGE: BE THE CLASS OF GREAT CHANGE AGENTS! •
That change is my charge for you today. May the Class of 2021 become the “Class of Great Change Agents!”
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There couldn’t be a more urgent time for you to bring about Great Change to our health system.
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That may mean starting small. But small changes lead to bigger changes, and you’re already doing that.
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The world needs your energy and insights. Now is your time to act!
LAST BUT NOT LEAST, CELEBRATE •
Thank you for taking on this charge.
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There’s so much more exciting work ahead of you, and I hope you find this career as enjoyable as I have.
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Medicine is one of the most rewarding careers there is. People will come to you during their most vulnerable moments, and you will bear
witness to their pain, sorrow, and joy. •
And you will make an impact, both professionally and personally.
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Congratulations again on all you have accomplished. You’ve earned this celebration today. Be proud!
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And congratulations to your support networks and everyone at the School of Medicine. I’m overwhelmed at how everyone came together.
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And I’m so proud of all of you in this class of graduates. I am so honored to share this moment with all of you.
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Congratulations, Class of 2021. Now go forth and be Great Change Agents!
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 Gabriel Monti, 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: Cherisse Kawamura, MD, and Elisabeth Seamon, 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 Max Castanera, 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 Nicole Anzai, 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 Jana Wieland, 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 Kameko Karasaki, 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 Max Sunoo, MD Hawai`i Academy of Family Physicians Outstanding Student Award: Established in 1995 to recognize excellence in family medicine. Awarded to Cherisse Kawamura, 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 Rebecca Lian, MD
ʻOhiʻa Lehua
AWARDS 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 Mari Grief, MD Hawai`i Medical Association Alliance Endowment Award: Established in 1998 to recognize community service and academic achievement. Awarded to: Shelley Wong, MD, and Danielle Sullivan, 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 Kadee-Kalia Tamashiro, MD 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 Malia Brennan, 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 Landon A. Kozai, 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 Wakako Horiuchi, 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 Gabriel Monti, MD, and Mark Guirguis, 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 Gabriel Monti, 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 Gabriel Monti, 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 Charles “Kawena” Akiona, 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 Max Castanera, MD
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AWARDS 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 Arash Ghaffari-Rafi, MD Po`okela 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 William Harris, 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 Mari Grief, 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 Holly Harada, 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 Travis Hong, MD (faculty) and Lucia Amore, 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 Taryn Miyake, MD 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 Karen Chang, 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 Scott Lozanoff, MD (Pre-Clinical) and Stacey Woodruff, 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 Kore Liow, MD College of American Pathologists Distinguished Medical Student Award: Given to a medical student, who is in any year of training, for outstanding achievement, great aptitude, or great interest in pathology. Awarded to Mayumi A. Fernandez MD
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DEANS MESSAGE: Aloha, As Dean, I want to give special thanks to the students, faculty and staff who have helped the University of Hawaii - John A. Burns School of Medicine achieve its rank as #24 in Primary Care education in America for 2022. Because much of this national ranking system relates to the size of the medical school and its national visibility, it is truly an honor for this small school in the middle of the Pacific to be recognized highly by the US News & World Report out of over 180 medical schools nationally. We also received a solid ranking as a Research medical school (#64 nationally). The consistently strong performance of our graduates during their residency training has helped build this reputation. We also wish to note our appreciation for the support provided by our students' ohana. Those of you attending in person or watching the live stream have done much to support our students. Sometimes this represents housing and feeding the students. Others also have provided direct fiscal support for your child at JABSOM. We strive to obtain more financial aid to offer our great students, as we know this journey is challenging to our students and their families. Much of my time as dean is spent working with alumni, community leaders, and business leaders to help raise funds for JABSOM so that we can offset the high cost of tuition. We have a ways to go, but we are deeply appreciative of all who have joined us and continue to support our quest to build a tuition-free medical school experience.
Congratulations to this impressive group of students and mahalo nui loa for your contributions. Jerris Hedges, MD, MS, MMM Professor & Dean Barry & Virginia Weinman - Endowed Chair John A. Burns School of Medicine University of Hawaii - Manoa
JABSOM gratefully acknowledges the following donors for their generous support of Convocation 2021.
Maile
JABSOM gratefully acknowledges the following donors for their generous support of Convocation 2021.
Best Wishes to the Class of 2021
White Coat Ceremony, 2017
A special Mahalo
to all the hard working staff, volunteers, community partners, and the Class of 2021 to bring you this special ceremony. Florals donated by members of the Department of Native Hawaiian Health.