Roseman University spectRUm - Winter 2023

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WINTER 2023 • Publishing Semiannually | VOLUME 7 • Issue 1

INSIDE: Jamie Fairclough..... PG. 4 Utah's Healthcare Hero......PG. 8 Roseman Hero Scholars... PG. 10


Do you love to golf and want to make a difference in the lives of today’s students? Roseman’s Annual Golf Tournament raises funds to support scholarships for our 1,500 nursing, pharmacy and dental medicine students, who are tomorrow’s highly skilled and compassionate healthcare leaders. Join us with your foursome or sponsorship for a fantastic day of golf on a spectacular course! MONDAY, MAY 6, 2024 Red Rock Country Club - Private Mountain Course DAY OF EVENT 6:30am Check-in, Breakfast, Raffle Ticket Purchase 8:30am Shotgun start | 2pm Lunch, Silent Auction, and Golfer Recognition following play PRICING Sponsorships from $1,250 | Golf starting at $775 | Foursomes starting at $2,500 Visit roseman.edu/golf-tournament, call 702-802-2830 or email golf@roseman.edu.

PUBLISHER Jason Roth EDITORS Jason Roth Carson Fry

PHOTOGRAPHERS Ryan Arakawa Loretta Campbell Francia Garcia Anny Ortega

DESIGNER Amy Glick

spectRUm is published two times per year by Roseman University of Health Sciences, A Nevada non-profit corporation. 11 Sunset Way, Henderson, NV 89014 | roseman.edu | 702.968.1633 | ©2023

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Letter from the PRESIDENT

Thank you for taking the time to read this winter edition of Roseman University's SpectRUm magazine. The past couple of months were memorable here at Roseman. Not only did we welcome new cohorts of students into our Roseman family, but we also celebrated all those – students, alumni, faculty, staff, and supporters -- who contribute to making our university truly one-of-a-kind. Our first-ever, week-long Homecoming celebration included events and activities, giving opportunities, and awards acknowledging our remarkable students, alumni, and employees. In this issue of SpectRUm, you will learn about five Alumni awarded for their contributions to their healthcare professions, and to Roseman and our current students. These are just a handful of those who have notable accomplishments. I was humbled to see our campus communities come together for this special week, and I look forward to Homecoming growing in the coming years with the opportunity to acknowledge more of the over 8,000 Roseman alumni who are transforming healthcare in Nevada, Utah, and across the country. Speaking of awards, in this issue you will also read about Dr. Ryan Moffat, the College of Dental Medicine’s Director of Public Health Sciences. Last month, he was honored as one of Utah’s Healthcare Heroes, presented by Utah Business. Dr. Moffat spearheads many of the College of Dental Medicine’s patient outreach efforts, including the annual Back to School Brush-up™, Give Kids a Smile®, and Give New Utahns a Smile. These events bring our dental faculty, students, and residents together to provide free dental care to thousands of Salt Lake City area families who are unable to afford dental care otherwise. We are proud of Dr. Moffat for leading these initiatives, among others, and we congratulate him for being honored among the top healthcare providers in Utah. Finally, another notable Roseman faculty member profiled in this issue is Dr. Jamie Fairclough, the College of Medicine’s Associate Dean for Research Assessment & Evaluation. As data collection and analysis becomes more important, especially in higher education and healthcare, the expertise of people like Dr. Fairclough becomes invaluable for Roseman to carry out its mission to advance the health and wellness of the communities we serve by educating current and future generations of health professionals, conducting research, and providing patient care. Not only does Dr. Fairclough share her passion for data, but also how it can be transformative. I find it fascinating, and I believe you will too. Thank you, again, for your interest in Roseman University as we continue to grow in and make a positive impact in Nevada, Utah and beyond.

Renee Coffman President

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Feature Spotlight

Jamie Fairc lough: Harnessing the Power of Data to Transform Medicine by Jason Roth

In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare and medical education, data has become a linchpin, guiding decisions, shaping strategies, and unlocking new frontiers. Jamie Fairclough, PhD, MPH, MS, Roseman University College of Medicine’s Associate Dean for Research Assessment & Evaluation and Professor, is a visionary leader who has made data the centerpiece of her career. In an in-depth interview, we delve into her remarkable journey and her pivotal role in shaping the future of medicine through data-driven insights.

From Dissertation to Data Enthusiast Dr. Fairclough's entry into the world of data began when she was conducting secondary data analysis for her dissertation in a doctoral program in human sciences at Florida State University. Despite initial warnings from doctoral chairs about the challenges of working with secondary data, she embarked on the arduous task of analyzing a messy longitudinal dataset focused on HPV outcomes. The complexity of the dataset led her to explore additional statistical analyses to ensure data appropriateness. This experience marked her epiphany moment, sparking a deep passion for statistics and data analysis. "I fell in love with stats," Dr. Fairclough recalls. The experience compelled her to reflect on her educational journey as she completed her PhD in human sciences and to reconsider her path. Throughout her career, Dr. Fairclough consistently found herself at the forefront of data-related initiatives, emphasizing the importance of accurate, timely, and comprehensive data. Her trajectory took her from an Assistant Dean position in a pharmacy school to a broader role in medicine, and she knew she needed additional training to fulfill her data-centric ambitions. "I ended up going back and doing a lot of postgraduate work," she said. Following an NIH postdoctoral fellowship at Duke University, Dr. Fairclough’s love of stats led her to pursue multiple postgraduate programs, including Data Science, Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, and Cloud Computing at University of Texas at Austin; 4|

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Medical Statistics at Stanford University; Healthcare AI at Harvard Medical School; and Data Engineering at University of Chicago. She was also selected as a Data & Policy Summer Scholar at University of Chicago. Data as the Foundation of Medicine At Roseman University College of Medicine, Dr. Fairclough shares the essential role data plays in the College's mission. "The data tells our story," she explains. “It serves as a guiding light, helping the College achieve its goals and objectives. The data can take various forms—quantitative, qualitative, or unstructured, such as images and audio. The goal is to gather data comprehensively from various systems and ensure it paints an accurate picture.” One distinctive aspect of Dr. Fairclough's role at Roseman is the early integration of data science. She notes that "bringing in a data scientist this early is the development of a medical school is very unusual, especially at a leadership level." The institution's forwardthinking approach involves considering data infrastructure from the outset, ensuring that data collection aligns with future analytical needs. Addressing the challenge of disparate systems in medicine, Dr. Fairclough's team actively investigates ways to integrate data from various platforms. They ask critical questions about data ownership, accessibility, and utility. By setting up data infrastructure from the beginning, Roseman University College of Medicine aims to harness data's power effectively and efficiently.


Dr. Fairclough's role at Roseman is the early integration of data science.

Data for the Greater Good Beyond her role at the College of Medicine, Dr. Fairclough is keen on helping the entire University. Her expertise in data science has facilitated collaborations with the Office of Institutional Research & Effectiveness to address student outcomes and challenges. These collaborations aim to pinpoint barriers to graduation and devise strategies to enhance student success. Dr. Fairclough and her data science team, equipped with trained professionals in epidemiology, biostatistics, AI, engineering, and machine learning, hold tremendous potential to elevate Roseman's capabilities. They are exploring ways to collaborate with other schools within the institution to leverage their expertise and contribute to the University's broader mission. Empowering Future Doctors with Data For aspiring doctors, understanding data collection and analysis is paramount. As Dr. Fairclough explains, the data is the foundation upon which clinical decisions are made. Medical records, diagnostic tools, and AI-assisted systems all rely on data. Ensuring the accuracy of data is crucial to making precise clinical decisions that impact patient outcomes positively. Dr. Fairclough sees AI as a powerful tool in the medical field, not as a replacement for physicians but as an invaluable assistant. "AI can sift through vast datasets with lightning speed, identifying critical cases and freeing up physicians to focus on complex problems. Furthermore, AI can enhance clinical decision-making

by identifying subtle patterns that might be overlooked by human clinicians," she explains. Data-Driven Impact Beyond the Classroom Dr. Fairclough's work extends far beyond the classroom. She envisions the application of data science to evaluate and address community health disparities. By analyzing data on healthcare access, socioeconomic factors, and demographics, she believes we can identify vulnerable populations and design targeted interventions. One project that exemplifies this vision is the evaluation of households served by GENESIS, the College of Medicine’s household-centered initiative to address the social determinants of health within vulnerable households in Las Vegas. By understanding the characteristics of these communities and their health needs, data-driven insights can be applied not only to Las Vegas but also to similar communities nationwide. Data has the power to generalize and infer solutions, potentially transforming healthcare on a grand scale. Dr. Fairclough, with her unwavering commitment to data science, stands at the forefront of a revolution in medicine and education. Her journey from a curious doctoral student to a data enthusiast and a visionary leader exemplifies the transformative potential of data. As she continues to shape the future of medicine through data-driven insights, she reminds us that the power of data lies not only in numbers but in the profound impact it can have on people's lives. roseman.edu/spectrum | 5


Roseman University College of Pharmacy and College of Graduate Studies

PARTNERSHIP

to enhance career opportunities for Pharmacy Grads by Jason Roth Roseman University of Health Sciences is opening new career opportunities for future pharmacy students with the introduction of a Dual Accelerated Doctor of Pharmacy and Master of Sciences in Pharmaceutical Sciences (PharmD-MSPS) 3+1 program. Pending approval from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities and the Nevada Commission on Postsecondary Education, it will be the first such program offered in Nevada and Utah – states where Roseman University campuses are located.

“This opportunity combines Roseman's three-year accelerated PharmD degree with an MSPS to empower students with knowledge in the scientific, regulatory, and clinical dimensions of pharmaceuticals," said Dr. Fannin. “Upon completion, graduates are well-prepared to embark on diverse career paths, including roles in research, drug development, and patient care, but also have increased preparedness and competitiveness for post-graduate opportunities, including residencies and industry fellowships."

The new dual program is a partnership between Roseman’s Colleges of Pharmacy and Graduate Studies to offer pharmacy students the opportunity to earn both the PharmD and MSPS degrees in four years by shortening the MSPS program by one year.

Career options for graduates of the dual program include contributing to breakthroughs at major pharmaceutical corporations, collaborating with academic institutions, impacting healthcare policies within governmental agencies, or excelling in managed care organizations, says Roseman University Vice President for Research and College of Graduate Studies Dean Jeffery Talbot, PhD.

The College of Pharmacy is currently accepting applications for the PharmD program for fall 2024. Students enrolled in the program may apply for the dual degree program in their first or second year of the three-year PharmD program and enter the MSPS program upon completion of the PharmD degree.

According to College of Pharmacy Dean Larry Fannin, PharmD, the PharmD-MSPS dual program is designed for PharmD students with a passion for the entire spectrum of drug development, spanning from initial discovery to final delivery.

Between 2012 and 2021, Utah saw the fastest growth in life sciences employment in the country, with the biopharmaceutical, medical device and other related industries employing more than 38,000, according to a 2023 report published by the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute at University of Utah. Nevada’s growth in this sector has also been robust, with more than 1,000 bioscience companies employing nearly 9,500 in 2021, according to a June 2023 report by the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO), in partnership with the Council of State Bioscience Associations (CSBA). Dr. Talbot said, "Training qualified scientists to meet this growing demand is critical for continued economic development and diversification in our region." Information about the Dual Accelerated PharmD-MSPS 3+1 program can be found online at pharmacy.roseman.edu.

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ROADRUNNER NEWS BRIEFS

ROSEMAN UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF NURSING

TO LAUNCH DOCTORAL PROGRAM FOR NURSE ANESTHESIOLOGY The College of Nursing at Roseman University of Health Sciences announced its plan for a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Nurse Anesthesia (DNPNA) program to address the Intermountain region’s high demand for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs). The program will enroll an inaugural class of 20 students in summer/fall 2024 pending approval by the Council on Accreditation of Nurse Anesthesia Educational Programs (COA). Roseman’s DNPNA program will be based at its Henderson, Nevada campus and delivered over 36 months in a hybrid-online format, with students learning didactic curriculum online and clinical and experiential learning on campus and at partner clinical sites throughout Southern Nevada beginning midway through the first year of the program.

PHARMACY STUDENT ALLIANCE

AWARDED APHA-ASP PATIENT CARE PROJECT Roseman University College of Pharmacy’s Student Alliance was awarded the APhA-ASP Patient Care Project for Operation Reproductive Health Award for Region 8 (CA, NV, AZ, NM, CO, HI) for their presentations to residents of Westcare Nevada in partnership with Roseman’s EMPOWERED program. The award is part of APhA’s Operation Reproductive Health campaign, which encourages student pharmacists to promote health and wellness services to improve reproductive and sexual health within their communities. Student Alliance is now in the running for the National Award to be presented during the APhA annual meeting in Orlando, FL in March 2024.

ROADRUNNER ACCOLADES

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR FACULTY At its 2023 Annual Meeting and Convocation held in October in Orlando, FL, five faculty from Roseman University’s College of Dental Medicine – Dr. Jeremy Godderidge, Dr. Jonathan Fairbanks, Dr. Angela Christensen, Dr. Ryan Moffat and Dr. Clark Dana – were inducted into the Fellowship of the American College of Dentist. Established in 1920, the American College of Dentists is one of the oldest and most respected professional organizations for dentists in the U.S. and is dedicated to promoting excellence, ethics, and professionalism in the practice of dentistry. To become a Fellow, a dentist must meet rigorous criteria related to their professional achievements, ethical conduct, and commitment to the betterment of the dental profession and society. Being inducted as a Fellow is a recognition of an individual's outstanding contributions to dentistry and is often seen as a mark of distinction in a dentist's career, signifying a commitment to the highest standards of ethical behavior, professionalism, and excellence in patient care.

Dr. Catherine “Leiana” Oswald, the College of Pharmacy’s Associate Dean of Academic Affairs and Assessment and Associate Professor of Pharmacy Practice, has been awarded the Nevada Pharmacy Alliance 2023 National Alliance of State Pharmacy Associations (NASPA) Excellence in Innovation Award. The award recognizes qualified pharmacists who have demonstrated significant innovation in their practice, method, or service directly or indirectly resulting in improved patient care and/or advancement of the profession of pharmacy.

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Utah's Healthcare

HERO

DR. RYAN MOFFAT'S INSPIRING JOURNEY TO DENTAL EXCELLENCE by Carson Fry Dr. Ryan Craig Moffat, a pediatric dentist and Associate Professor at Roseman University’s College of Dental Medicine has dedicated his career to helping people of all ages, but especially children, access dental care. Recognizing his unwavering commitment to improving dental health for the state's most vulnerable residents, last month Dr. Moffat was honored with the prestigious Utah Business Healthcare Hero Award for Community Outreach. Dr. Moffat's journey is a testament to his tireless dedication and unyielding passion for making a difference. An alum of Highland High School, Brigham Young University, Creighton University School of Dentistry, and the University of Southern California, his educational journey laid the foundation for a career marked by profound impact. Before embarking on his path into academic dental medicine, Dr. Moffat practiced as a pediatric dentist in Draper, Utah, for an impressive 12 years. His transition to dental academia has allowed him to take his mission to new heights. As a Healthcare Hero, Dr. Moffat's story is undoubtedly compelling. However, it is not just his professional achievements that define him; it is also the support and admiration he receives from those closest to him. Among them is Lindsey Moffat, Dr. Moffat's wife and Assistant Professor and Skills & Simulation Lab Coordinator in Roseman University’s College of Nursing, who had some heartwarming words to share on her husband's remarkable achievement. "Congratulations to Ryan on being a recipient of the 2023 Healthcare Hero Award from Utah Business. I can’t think of a more deserving person than him! Ryan is truly the kindest and most dedicated person I know. He makes it a point to always leave people feeling a little better than they did before. I think that is one reason people like working with and being around him so much," said Lindsey Moffat. One of Dr. Moffat's standout achievements is the organization of dozens of dental health community outreach programs. These initiatives, made possible through the dedication of Dr. Moffat and the hard work of his dental students, have had a transformative impact on thousands of Utahns who face significant barriers to good dental health. Under Dr. Moffat's guidance, annual programs like "Back to School Brush Up™" and "Give Kids a Smile®" have opened doors to essential dental services for economically disadvantaged children in Utah. “For many families, the events provide free annual or semiannual dental checkups,” said Dr. Moffat. “Due to various circumstances, many of these children would otherwise go without dental care until there is an acute and costly problem, such as painful tooth decay.” These initiatives provide free dental exams, cleanings, and restorative care to 8|

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Give New Utahns a Smile is an effort to address the immediate needs of the more than 60,000 refugees in Utah.

Dr. Moffat honored at the Utah Business Healthcare Heroes VIP Reception in October 2023.

over 1,000 children each year, ensuring that they start their school year with bright, healthy smiles and the confidence to succeed academically and socially.

It is no surprise that Dr. Moffat was recognized as a Healthcare Hero by Utah Business. This award, selected by a distinguished committee, highlights not only his remarkable achievements but also his commitment to the health and wellness of Utah’s communities. “This nomination came from people whom I appreciate, esteem, and admire as exceptional colleagues,” said Dr. Moffat. “I am grateful they think highly of my efforts, but we all know fully well these events see success because of the many dental students, administration, faculty and staff who work tirelessly to see it to fruition. What a fun award to celebrate together in recognition of the good things happening at Roseman University.”

"Ryan also has an amazing ability to organize, collaborate, and juggle multiple tasks in both his work and personal life. He not only does it well, but he does it with ease, all while leaving a positive impact in his wake," Lindsey Moffat adds. In an increasingly diverse Utah, Dr. Moffat's commitment extends to "Give New Utahns a Smile," a program that provides free comprehensive dental care to 150 refugees annually. For those who have often faced unimaginable challenges in their journey to the United States, this program offers more than just dental care; it offers a fresh start and a warm welcome to their new home. Dr. Moffat's impact doesn't stop there. He and his dedicated team have created dental outreach programs that target a wide range of underserved populations, including individuals with special needs, the elderly, those experiencing homelessness and poverty, veterans, and racial/ethnic minorities. Their tireless efforts ensure that dental health is within reach for every corner of the community. At Give Kids a Smile®, patients receive a voucher for x-rays, sealants and $100 worth of dental restorations. The purpose is to provide access to care for the financially challenged and establish a dental home for participants. Attendance has ranged as high as 600 children served. Beyond his professional life, Ryan is a loving and devoted husband and father, committed to his family and his faith. His contributions to dentistry, education, and the community demonstrate his exceptional character and dedication to improving the lives of those around him. "I believe it is for these reasons he is so deserving of this award," Lindsey Moffat affirms.

In a world where healthcare heroes are needed more than ever, Dr. Moffat's story is an inspiration to us all, and serves as a reminder that one individual's passion, determination and leadership can create a ripple of positive change.

IN THE COMMUNITY 2022 Statistics

Individuals Served

Cumulative Hours

Value of Care

Back to School Brush-Up™

479

3,200

$431,100

Give Kids a Smile®

397

3,200

$357,300

Give New Utahns a Smile

150

2,000

$144,150

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MEET ROSEMAN'S

2023 Hero Scholars Ten students were each awarded one-time $10,000 scholarships funded by the university in partnership with generous community partners and donors. by Jason Roth

This fall, Roseman University of Health Sciences awarded its 2023 Hero Scholars at events held on its Henderson, Nevada and South Jordan, Utah campuses. Ten students accepted into the university’s Colleges of Pharmacy and Nursing were each awarded one-time $10,000 scholarships funded by the university in partnership with generous community partners and donors. Each scholar was selected based on their academic promise, financial need, community volunteerism, and leadership skills. “In its second year, the Hero Scholars program was created during the COVID-19 pandemic to identify and reward future frontline healthcare professionals who selflessly volunteer to help improve their communities,” said Renee Coffman, PhD, Roseman University’s president and co-founder. “We are grateful for our community partners who have joined us in nurturing these students who have demonstrated heroic attributes in their everyday lives.” The Roseman University 2023 Hero Scholars program is funded in part through donations by The Valley Health System, Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada, Cure 4 The Kids Foundation, Steinberg Diagnostic Medical Imaging, Vegas Golden Knights Foundation, RBM Building Services, the Estate of Robert Stolman, the Renee Holder Memorial Scholarship Fund, and Roseman University Trustee Annette Logan-Parker. 10 |

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KAITLYN HINTON, Provo, Utah | South Jordan Campus Pharmacy Scholar supported by the Estate of Robert Stolman Kaitlyn channels her passion for community volunteerism into transformative action. Sparked by a high school lesson on combatting hunger, she pioneered a mini food pantry, which became a catalyst for ongoing involvement in food bank support. During an 18-month religious service, Kaitlyn volunteered at Woodburn, Oregon’s food pantry, reinforcing her commitment. Fluent in Spanish, later she championed food bank accessibility in a Snow College pilot program that aimed to provide food to those who were unable to access traditional food banks due to work schedules. At Brigham Young University, her tenure with Community Action Services showcased her versatility in community service by serving both English and Spanishspeaking individuals to provide basic necessities, including food. Kaitlyn envisions infusing healthcare with her leadership experience, developing unity and collaboration among interdisciplinary teams.

DIAMANTE BOONA, Las Vegas, Nevada | Henderson Campus Pharmacy Scholar supported by the Estate of Robert Stolman Guided by the pursuit of community connection, Diamante’s volunteering journey ignited during her undergraduate years. Through the UNLV Buddies after-school program she discovered a shared struggle with math to motivate a student to overcome his learning hurdles. Witnessing the student’s transformation ignited her passion for uplifting underserved youth and reinforcing her commitment to community service. Inspired by her brother, Diamante stepped into leadership roles, including serving as treasurer for a prehealth organization at UNLV. Through managing budgets, resources, and networking opportunities, she learned responsibility and accountability firsthand. Facing a challenge during a crucial event preparation, she demonstrated resilience, empathy, and collaboration within her team to make it a success. Diamante’s experiences have spurred her determination to apply her leadership skills in healthcare. As a future pharmacist, she envisions creating an environment of success, driven by clear communication, understanding, and unity.

BAUNYA YOUNG, St. Paul, Minnesota | Henderson Campus Pharmacy Scholar supported by the Valley Health System Since the age of seven, Baunya has been a steadfast supporter of her community, lending her time and energy to various initiatives. Her journey includes volunteering at farmers’ markets, contributing to the WE Day Minnesota program during middle school, and engaging in National Honor Society and Knight Crew leadership roles during high school. Beyond school, Baunya embraced leadership by advocating for education for Hmong youth and supporting Yaj vaj meng, a program guiding Hmong youth toward college. These experiences have shaped her understanding of diverse lives, their privileges, and their struggles. Her leadership journey evolved through sports, clubs, and work, emphasizing empathy, problem-solving, and accountability. Her commitment to integrity is fortified by the watchful eyes of her three younger brothers, compelling her to lead by example. Baunya envisions her leadership skills flourishing in the healthcare field.

KUNLA YOUNG, St. Paul, Minnesota | Henderson Campus Pharmacy Scholar supported by the Renee Holder Memorial Scholarship Fund Kunla finds purpose in community volunteerism, learning early in life that volunteering not only uplifts her St. Paul, Minnesota community but also enriches her life. From her early days in soccer, she embodied positivity and camaraderie. As a Knight Crew leader and volleyball team captain in high school, she honed her skills in nurturing others, embracing diverse opinions, and uniting ideas into effective strategies. Transitioning to adulthood, her role as a shift lead at work during the pandemic showcased her adeptness at organization, communication, and problem-solving. Kunla envisions her leadership prowess seamlessly translating into the pharmacy profession. Empowered by her experiences, she aspires to join and eventually lead healthcare teams with confidence, openness, and innovative thinking.

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CYNTHIA TRAN, Denver, Colorado | Henderson campus Nursing Scholar supported by the Cure 4 The Kids Foundation Cynthia has a passion for community service and leadership. Her journey started at age 11, volunteering at a local retirement home. This formative experience taught her the value of emotional support and compassion for the elderly and shaped her perspective on community service. Later, Cynthia co-founded “Socks for Denver,” a nonprofit that distributes socks to the homeless. Recognizing the importance of basic necessities like clean socks, Cynthia’s organization has made a tangible impact on Denver’s homeless population over the past two years. While working for another local nonprofit, she spearheaded an educational program that empowered parents with essential resources on child development, education, nutrition, and other relevant topics. This work showcased her ability to foster collaboration and find common ground among diverse perspectives. This quality is a cornerstone of her leadership style, and she envisions applying it in nursing by advocating for patients, mentoring fellow nurses, and actively participating in healthcare organizations. LORPU COOPER, Walnut Creek, California | Henderson campus Nursing Scholar supported by the Vegas Golden Knights Lorpu embodies global humanitarianism through volunteering. Her journey began at Atlanta-based Hosea Helps, offering vital support in job placement, food distribution, and housing. She extended her commitment at Hands On Atlanta, Legal Aid, Partnership Against Domestic Violence, and Georgia Healthcare, all of which helped her hone her skills to address pressing societal needs of area residents. During seven years at Georgia Healthcare, Lorpu’s roles have included companion to the elderly, baby cuddler, and activity planner, and Behavior Therapist supporting students on the spectrum during the pandemic. All of these roles enriched her communication, nurturing, conflict resolution, and project management skills. Internationally, Lorpu’s roles at UNICEF – United Nations Children’s Fund, Refugee Resettlement, and Immigration Services have demonstrated her cultural sensitivity and dedication to aiding refugees. She used these skills to establish an NGO initiative in Liberia that aided expectant mothers through education and material assistance. Her journey reflects an unwavering commitment to uplifting lives, shaping a future nursing career founded on compassion, communication, and impactful leadership.

JULIET NNAJI, North Las Vegas, Nevada | Henderson campus Nursing Scholar supported by the Comprehensive Cancer Centers of Nevada Juliet is deeply motivated by her passion for health and helping others. Her joy in aiding both her local and global communities is inspiring, and volunteering has become her beloved hobby. In her home country of Nigeria, her community volunteering brought her to remote areas where she administered vital deworming treatments to over 1,000 schoolchildren and facilitated the installation of a borehole for clean water. Upon arriving in the US, Juliet continued her volunteer work by distributing food to community members and aiding the homeless. Juliet’s leadership aptitude is innate, evidenced by her ease in guiding others during her community service. Open-mindedness, creativity, and strong communication skills enabled her to delegate tasks and manage conflicts effectively. As a Nursing Scholar, Juliet envisions applying her leadership and compassionate skills to make a positive impact in healthcare.

SHE DAVENPORT, Sacramento, California | Henderson campus Nursing Scholar supported by Steinberg Diagnostic Medical Imaging She found her calling in community volunteerism through a personal connection to homelessness within her family. Her mission to help evolved into a role at Feeding Friend, a non-profit organization providing meals and essentials to the community. Through her efforts, she streamlined donation requests and fundraising, leaving a lasting impact and a template for future events. She’s journey into leadership flourished as she trained and led Certified Nursing Assistants in a fast-paced rehabilitation unit. Her ability to unite and inspire her team earned her the role of CNA lead, where she organized care plans, fostered meticulous attention to detail, and organized inclusive activities. Her open communication, problem-solving skills, and nurturing nature led to remarkable results, including reduced falls and readmissions. With a profound understanding of the collective effort and a passion for helping others, She envisions a future in nursing where she can offer excellent care to her patients.

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RICHARD VILLACARLOS, Los Angeles, California | South Jordan campus Nursing Scholar supported by Roseman University Trustee Annette Logan-Parker As an ambitious student from Los Angeles, California, Richard embarked on his undergraduate journey at UCLA where the demands of rigorous courses and newfound independence prompted him to explore the world of student-initiated volunteer programs, such as the UCLA Student-Initiated Outreach Center (SIOC). There he devoted 15 hours a week as a tutor and mentor to high school students, with a goal to improve access to higher education for at-risk communities. Through SIOC, Richard honed leadership skills, learning to facilitate meetings, develop peers, and orchestrate impactful programs. Later, Richard extended his passion to Kaiser Permanente’s Oncology Department, leading a transformative weekly yoga class for stomach cancer patients. With over a decade of experience as a yoga instructor, Richard guides individuals toward physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. His commitment to his students’ growth mirrors his dedication to his own health and spiritual development, setting an example of living the principles he teaches. Richard is now pursuing a career in nursing to help others.

TYLER HEESE, Jefferson, Oregon | South Jordan campus Nursing Scholar supported by RBM Building Services Tyler exemplifies community service and leadership. Witnessing the devastating Cedar Creek Fire in 2020 in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, Tyler joined Mahema Community Church’s effort to rebuild lives after the tragedy. Over nearly two years and accumulating 2,000 hours of volunteer time, he and his team built 150 sheds for families who lost everything. Tyler’s expertise from a family farm background enabled him to teach others to wield basic tools and construct the sheds, revealing the importance of teamwork and unity in adversity. Working as a CNA, Tyler recognized the significance of compassionate patient care and effective communication, especially during difficult times. He has demonstrated exceptional leadership by fostering a positive atmosphere among his peers. Tyler’s determination to elevate his fellow CNAs’ work ethic and attitudes led to positive changes, transforming the work environment into one of respect and collaboration and fostering a harmonious and respectful medical workplace that prioritized patient well-being.

Scan for more information about Roseman University’s Hero Scholars program

The 2023 Hero Scholars were selected by a committee of Roseman University faculty, administration, and staff who evaluated more than 60 scholarship applications. Hero Scholars will be offered again for the 2024-2025 academic year. To make a Gift to the Hero Scholars program, please contact Veronica Fischer, Director of Alumni Relations, Scholarships and Special Events at vfischer@roseman.edu or 702-802-2830 or Kendra Angell, Director of Philanthropy, at kangell@roseman.edu or 801-878-1272. roseman.edu/spectrum | 13


23 0 2 g n i Homecom

In October, Roseman University saw a remarkable gathering as students, faculty, staff, and over 300 enthusiastic alumni converged to inaugurate Homecoming Week. This festive occasion spanned across both the Henderson and South Jordan campuses and provided a variety of engaging daily activities designed to foster celebration, education, networking, and philanthropy. Among the highlights were a wellness fair, an enlightening Alumni Speakers Series, an invigorating RoadRUNNER 5K/3K Race, Alumni Brunches and Mixers, as well as the highly anticipated return of Roseman’s annual Founders’ Day celebration. The culmination of this jubilant week featured the presentation of Founders’ Day Awards upon deserving alumni and students during luncheon events. The theme that underscored this year's Homecoming and Founders' Day was "I Heart Roseman," a heartfelt sentiment that resonates deeply with our dedicated faculty, students, esteemed alumni, and community partners.

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AWARDS

Trailblazer Award

DR. REED HOWE Henderson, College of Pharmacy Class of 2004

Roadrunner Award

DR. KEDY SHEN South Jordan, College of Dental Medicine Class of 2016

DR. YOUSEF TOMA Henderson, College of Pharmacy Class of 2019

Service Award

AMANDA BARRETT South Jordan, College of Nursing, ABSN Class of 2021

LT. COL. FRANCISCO BORAL Henderson, College of Pharmacy Class of 2010

Scan to learn more about the 2023 Alumni Awards Honorees.

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Healthcare Topics. Expert Presenters. In Your Neighborhood. Join us Thursdays each Month | 5:30pm – 7pm Roseman University Summerlin Campus | One Breakthrough Way, Las Vegas, NV 89135 Free Event – Complimentary Light Food and Refreshments JANUARY 18 A New Year, A New You: Weight Loss Medications - Fact vs. Fiction? Presented by: Dr. Leiana Oswald

FEBRUARY 15* 5:30PM – 6:30PM The Benefits of Good Oral Health for Humans and Our Beloved Canine Companions Presented by: Dr. Matthew Thacker h ealt and his canine companions tal H uble n e *D h Do

MARCH 21 My prescription costs what?? Affordable Healthcare and Drug Pricing in the U.S. Presented by: Dr. Manas Mandal APRIL 18 Depictions of Prescription Drugs in Movies and TV – How do these drugs function, and how accurate are their depictions? Presented by: Dr. Christopher So

t Mon eader! H

6:30PM – 7:30PM Mission Alignment: Cure For The Kids and Roseman Dental & Orthodontics: Treating Medically Compromised Patients with Specialized Care Presented by: Dr. Joseph Lasky and Dr. Alice Chen

MAY 16 Eye Health in the Desert – How to Protect, Nurture, and Care for Our Eyes, “the Windows to the Soul” from Birth to Advanced Age Presented by: Dr. Surajit Dey

2024 Presenting Sponsor Food provided by Register now at speakers.roseman.edu or call 702.802.2872

roseman.edu | @rosemanuhs


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