Xavier University School of Medicine Hosts Second Annual Global Health Leadership Summit in Aruba
avier University School of Medicine hosted its second annual Global Health Leadership Summit on May 17, 2024. The Global Health Leadership Summit at XUSOM exemplifies the university’s commitment to global health, as it aims to address expansive health challenges through collaboration, innovation, and leadership. The annual event is a platform for dialogue, learning, and networking among leaders in various fields, including healthcare, public health, policy, and academia.
The summit provided ample opportunities for networking, enabling participants to connect with peers, mentors, and potential collaborators. However, the impact of the Global Health Summit extends beyond the confines of the event itself. It contributes to the ongoing discourse on Global Health and helps shape future leaders in the field.
The summit focuses on various themes pertinent to global health. The summit featured keynote speakers who are renowned experts in their fields. These speakers shared their insights and experiences, offering valuable perspectives on current international health trends and challenges. in addition to keynote addresses, the summit included panel discussions that fostered interactive and in-depth discussions.
This year our distinguished speakers were Dr. raul Mostoslavsky and Dr. Linnea Smith.
Dr. Mostoslavsky is a native of Tucuman, Argentina. Currently, he is the Scientific Director of the Massachusetts General Hospital Krantz Family Cancer Center and the Laurel Schwartz Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Mostoslavksy spoke extensively about his research which centers on understanding the role of chromatin dynamics in modulating cellular homeostasis, particularly the crosstalk between epigenetics and metabolism which has provided new insights particularly in relation to cancer. These two fields appear to crosstalk in a critical and previously unrecognized manner. Dr. Mostoslavsky has received numerous awards for his research. This year he was presented a special award from Xavier
University School of Medicine for his outstanding research in cancer.
Dr. Linnea Smith hails from Wisconsin with stints in Kentucky and Tennessee. after completing additional training in internal Medicine, she embarked on a career in a small group practice in Prairie du Sac. However, after a visit to Peru in 1990, Dr. Smith’s life took a different turn. What began as a simple vacation turned into a lifelong commitment to the people in the Peruvian jungle. She returned armed with medical supplies and a leave of absence from her Wisconsin practice, dedicating herself to serving the local community. With support from the rotary Club members, she oversaw the construction of a clinic along the amazon river, ensuring better access to health care for the local population. Dr. Smith’s presentation shared photos of her life in Peru, along with the community she serves.
at this year’s summit, Mr. ravi Bhooplapur along with Chancellor J.G. Bhat honored each of the speakers for their dedication in their fields; Dr. Smith with a reward for her dedication and service to the people of the Peruvian jungle, and Dr. Mostoslavsky for advancements in the field of cancer research.
Looking ahead, XUSOM aims to expand the reach and influence of the Global Health Leadership Summit. Plans include increasing virtual participation to make the summit accessible to a wider audience, fostering more international collaborations, and integrating emerging topics in global health to keep the summit relevant and impactful. n
2024 Global Health Leadership Summit Spe A ker S
Mr. Dangui Oduber aruba Minister for Public Health and Tourism His excellency
Dr. Linnea Smith Founder, amazon Medical Project, Peru
Dr. Raul Mostoslavsky Scientific Co-Director, The Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, The Laurel Schwartz Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School
Dr. JG Bhat Chancellor, Xavier University School of Medicine, Oranjestad, aruba
Aruba minister for public Health and tourism His excellency mr. dangui oduber received the Xavier university school of medicine icon Award at the 2024 Global Health leadership summit.
L to r: XUSOM Chancellor Dr. J.G. Bhat, aruba Minister for Public Health and Tourism His excellency Mr. Dangui Oduber, Xavier University President Mr. Ravi Bhooplapur, and Xavier University Chief Academic Officer Dr. Arun Dubey
Xavier University School of Medicine HOStS ItS SeventH ALUMnI GLOBAL Meet
THe Seventh annual alumni Global Meet was held at Xavier University School of Medicine on May 16, 2024. Over 25 alumni from all over the country were present. The opening ceremony gave Dr. Dubey an opportunity to introduce his former students, Dr. rachel Karmally, Class of 2012, and Dr. Sumeet Singh, Class of 2013. Dr. rachel Karmally served as host along with Dr. Sumeet Singh. Dr. Karmally also serves as member of the Xavier Board of Trustees. The alumni were introduced as panel members to full house of students, staff, faculty and other guests. each panel included at least six to seven doctors who spoke about personal experiences, gave great advice, answered questions, and got some great laughs.
1. Standing out in medical school
each doctor shared with the audience their stories and gave advice to students who asked questions. Dr. Lee, Class of 2016, gave the best advice in a comical delivery, “Just don’t be weird” a few of the takeaways were to be proactive, be engaging, participate in outside activities, excel in rotations, and develop strong relationships.
thank you to all the alumni who participated: Dr. Oladipupo Osunbunmi, Class of 2020; Dr. Zain Nagaria, Class of 2018; Dr. Harshil Parekh, Class of 2022; Dr. Stanley Lee, Class of 2016; Dr. vaibhav vyas, Class of 2010; Dr. rushikesh vyas, Class of 2010; and Dr. Nikhale Malik Class of 2021;
2. Studying for the boards
Personal stories were again shared with the following advice: “We are all different, so we all will have different ways to study.” advice: start early, create a study schedule, focus on high-yield topics, practice self-care, and consider joining a study group. Dr. rami Sakaan shared that you “can have fun, study, and pass your test”. He is proof of his own logic.
thank you to all the alumni who participated: Dr. Bobak Sharifi, Class of 2017; Dr. Shoyeb Patel Class of 2021; Dr. rami Sakaan, Class of 2018; Dr. andrea Hernandez-Sakaan, Class of 2018; Dr. Julia ellestad, Class of 2022; Dr. Nikhale Malik, Class of 2021.
3. Maximizing clinical experience
The students were given advice about reliability, communication, professionalism, and being a team player. Be reliable: The panel of doctors advised that showing up on time and being dependable was super important. Listen carefully, ask questions, and communicate clearly and concisely with patients, families, and your medical team. Be knowledgeable: Stay up-to-date on the latest information and updates on your patient. Lastly, build strong relationships with your team, which include doctors, nurses, staff, and all other members of the medical team.
thank you to all the alumni who participated: Dr. Jacqueline Bekhit, Class of 2021; Dr. Gerardo Guarch, Class of 2010; Dr. Svetlana Paul, Class of 2018; Dr. ashvin Punnyamurthi, Class of 2014; Dr. Sasha Sharifi, Class of 2017; Dr. Konstantin Urazov, Class of 2017.
4. Applying for residency/speciality selection
Steps were given on how to prepare application materials, register with (NrMP) National resident Matching Program, research residency programs and submit your application to (eraS) electronic residency application Service. Students were reminded to determine their specialty, consider their passions and interests, be realistic about your abilities and limitations and lastly seek advice and guidance.
thank you to all the alumni who participated: Dr. Naila Manahil, Class of 2020; Dr. raza Syed, Class of 2020; Dr. aditya Sharma, Class of 2020; Dr. Omar Nawab, Class of 2017; Dr. Saavita Singh, Class of 2012. n
remember, medical school is not just about excelling academically. It’s also about developing the skills, mindset, and character necessary to become a well-rounded and compassionate physician.–Dr. rachel Karmally
the Art of Gathering Seventh annual alumni Global Meet
Dr. neelam Dwivedi, Professor, into to Clinical Medicine and Physical Diagnosis, and Dr. naila Manahil, Class of 2020, Fellow Sleep Medicine, advent Health Orlando, FL
Dr. Sumeet Singh, class of 2013, and Dr. Rachel Kamally, class of 2012, host the annual Global alumni Meeting and Panel Discussion.
L to r: Trustee, Dr. Peter Urazov; Trustee, Dr. Akwasi Achampong; Trustee Emeritus, Dr. Obi nwasokwa; Chancellor/Trustee, Dr. J.G. Bhat, Dr. Linnea Smith; Minister, Mr. Dangui Oduber; President, Mr. Ravi Bhooplapur; Dr. Raul Mostoslavsky, Trustee, Dr. Faten Kerazan; Trustee, Dr. Rachel Karmally
Dr. Raul Mostoslavsky
Dr. Arun Dubey Chief Academic Officer
Dr. Richard Pestell, Dean of Clinical Science and vP of academic affairs
Dr. Rushikesh vyas, Class of 2010
Dr. Manpreet Kaur, Class of 2018
Panel of Alumni Speakers: L to r: Dr. Rushikesh vyas, Class of 2010; Dr. vaibhav vyas, Class of 2010; Dr. Stanley Lee, Class of 2016; Dr. Harshil Parekh, Class of 2022; Dr. Zain nagaria, Class of 2018
Panel of Alumni Speakers: L to r: Dr. Zain nagaria, Class of 2018, and Dr. Oladipupo Osunbunmi, Class of 2020
XUSOM Students: L to r: Abdalla Mohumand MD2; Ihtesham Swati, MD1; Harjot Kaur, MD2; teniola Adenji, MD2
Panel of Alumni Speakers L to r: Dr. Sasha Sharifi, Class of 2017; Dr. Ashvin Panngamurthi Class of 2014; and Dr. Svetlana Paul, Class of 2018
The Sibling DOcTOrS: AgM: Dr. Sasha Sharifi (Far left) & Dr. Bobak Sharifi (Far right) both Class of 2017, reconnect at the alumni ceremony with Dr. Arun Dubey CaO, President, Mr. Ravi Bhooplapur, and Dr. Kevin Pawlak, Dean of Pre-Med
L to r, Dr. Gerardo Guarch, Class of 2010; Dr. Stanley Lee, Class of 2016; Trustee Dr. Rachel Karmally, Class of 2012; Dr. Raza Syed, Class of 2020; Dr. vainhav vyas, Class of 2010; Dr. Rushikesh vyas, Class of 2010
CeLebrAtInG 2nd Annual Foundation Dinner
avier University School of Medicine established the Xavier Foundation inc. to raise money through contributions to be used for scholarly activities and establish scholarships that will be awarded to deserving students.
Mr. Ravi Bhooplapur President, Xavier University School of Medicine
Mr. ravi Bhooplapur, President of the Xavier University School of Medicine, opened the dinner with a speech highlighting key milestones and future initiatives aimed at enhancing academic excellence.
This year, the 2024 Foundation Dinner for Xavier University School of Medicine was held at Papiamento restaurant. This annual event celebrated the University’s achievements and fostered community among faculty, alumni, and esteemed guests.
Papiamento restaurant, with its elegant ambiance and renowned cuisine, provided an ideal setting. The evening began with a cocktail reception in the lush garden creating a welcoming atmosphere. The venue was adored with twinkling lights and vibrant flowers, adding to the festive mood.
The dinner featured a multi-course meal blending local and international flavors, expertly crafted by Papiamento’s chefs, and included a whiskey bar with many fine selections. There were many networking opportunities and lively conversations throughout the evening.
in summary, the 2024 Foundation Dinner at Papiamento restaurant celebrated Xavier University School of Medicine’s achievements and bright future, leaving attendees with renewed pride and enthusiasm. n
eXCeLLenCe
Dinner at papiamento restaurant
alumni Dr. Ashvin Punnyamurthi Class of 2014 & CaO Dr. Dubey
Distinguished alumni & guests enjoying the night
2nd Annual Foundation Dinner
Trustee emeritus
Dr. Obi nwasokwa, Mr. Ravi Bhooplapur, President, Xavier University School of Medicine, Trustee Dr. Akwasi Achampong
Distinguished Guests: L to r: Dr. P.K. Prahalad, Mrs. Anita Casey, Chairman Mr. edwin Casey, Keynote Graduation Speaker Dr. thomas John
Dr. Ravindra veeranna, Dean of School of veterinary Medicine & Dr. J Carlos Henao Yepes
Dr. Sonia Bajwa Class of 2013 and Dr. Saavita Singh Class of 2012
L to r, Dr. Curran, Ast. Dean of Faculty Development; Dr. Gopi, Dean of Basic Science; Dr. Pawlak, Dean of Pre-Med Program
Distinguished Alumni & Guests: Guest, Dr. Zain nagaria, Dr. Rushikesh vyas, Dr. Saavita Singh, Dr. Jacqueline Bekhit, Dr. vaibhav vyas, Dr. Sonia Bajwa, Trustee Dr. Rachel Karmally, Guest, Dr. Gerardo Guarch, Dr. Oladipupo Osunbunmi
President
Mr. Bhooplapur meets with alumni, Faculty, and esteemed Guests
Dr. Stanley Lee, Class of 2016; Dr. Anna Urazov; Dr. Raza Syed, Class of 2020; Dr. Konstantin Urazov, Class of 2017
Dr. Zain nagaria, Class of 2018; Dr vaibhav vyas, Class of 2010; and Dr. Aditya Sharma, Class of 2020
It’s a family affair, our spotlight Benjamin
by emma kent
i chose to interview the brother and sister because it made me happy to see them utilizing the library daily. At first I thought they were twins, however, now i know they are a year apart. The siblings started their journey to XUSOM in 2023, hailing from Forest Hills in Queens, New York. Here is what they had to say about that journey.
How did you find out about XUSOM?
We found out about Xavier University School of Medicine online. We were researching various medical schools and came across XUSOM’s website, which provided detailed information about their programs, faculty, and student life.
Why did you choose XUSOM as your choice for medical school?
We chose XUSOM because we found the program to our liking. The curriculum is wellstructured and the faculty members are highly experienced and supportive. additionally, the school’s emphasis on providing a comprehensive medical education that balances theoretical knowledge with practical experience appealed to us. The smaller class sizes and the sense of community were also significant factors in our decision. Another reason is that the school offers a sibling Discount.
Where are you from and what was the journey to Xavier like?
We are from New York. The journey to XUSOM was both exciting and challenging. Moving from a bustling city to a more serene environment required some adjustment, but the welcoming community at XUSOM made the transition smooth. The support from the faculty and fellow students helped us settle in quickly.
Is it correct that you chose to take the pre-med route instead of a 4-year undergrad? If so, what made you make this decision and what perks are there in choosing the pre-med route at
Benjaman Daniarov
spotlight is on the Daniarov siblings, and tamara
XUSOM instead of an undergraduate program?
Yes, we did decide to take the pre-med route because it made more sense for us. it was faster and more focused on our ultimate goal of becoming doctors. The pre-med route at XUSOM is designed to streamline a path to earning a doctoral degree, providing a solid foundation in the necessary sciences without the additional requirements of a traditional undergraduate program. This focused approach allowed us to concentrate on our medical studies and reduced the overall time and cost associated with obtaining our medical degrees.
What values and standards has XUSOM instilled in you as pre-med 4 medical students who are on their way to becoming doctors? XUSOM is instilling in us several core values and standards that are crucial for aspiring doctors.
These include:
w Compassion and empathy: Understanding and addressing the needs of patients with genuine care and concern.
w professionalism: Maintaining high standards of ethical behavior, responsibility, and accountability in all aspects of medical practice.
w Lifelong Learning: embracing the importance of continuous education and staying updated with the latest medical advancements and research.
w Collaboration: Working effectively with a diverse team of healthcare professionals to provide the best possible care for patients.
w resilience and perseverance: Developing the ability to handle the pressures and challenges of medical practice with determination and a positive attitude.
The values are helping shape our approach to medicine and preparing us to become compassionate, competent, and dedicated physicians. n Tamara
Daniarov
