USF Health’s cardiovascular team of faculty, researchers, doctors, nurses, physical therapists, pharmacists and public health professionals continue to develop top-quality research, education and state-of-the-art clinical care to make life better for patients suffering with heart disease. To learn more, click here.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. According to American Heart Association (AHA), more than 6 million adults currently live with heart disease.

The number of people living with the condition is only expected to rise. AHA data shows that, by 2030, more than 8 million people could be diagnosed with heart disease.

The numbers are alarming. But, taking basic daily steps may help prevent or reduce heart disease and heart attack.

USF Health medical experts on cardiovascular disease weigh in – providing ten things people can do to keep their heart healthy. They suggest to:

Exercise daily

Vishal Parikh, MD, fellow of the Department of Cardiovascular Sciences at USF Health Morsani College of Medicine, says moderate exercise for at least 30 minutes a day can lower the risk of obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.

Quit smoking

Smoking increases the risk of heart disease and heart attack, says Amy Alman, PhD, assistant professor in the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics at the USF College of Public Health. “So, say no to smoking,” says Dr. Alman.

Maintain a healthy diet

“A bad diet can put a strain to your heart,” says Ponrathi Athilingam, PhD, assistant professor of cardiology at USF College of Nursing. She suggests considering healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, poultry, lean meats, and nuts to help lower the risk of heart disease. She also recommends eating foods with low trans-fat, saturated fat or sodium.

Manage stress

Dr. Parikh says that stress adds strain to the heart. Constant stress causes behaviors that increase heart disease risks including smoking, excessive alcohol, physical inactivity and lack of sleep. So, he says, “It’s important for people to identify triggers and practice relaxing techniques such as meditation. Something just as simple as laughing may help combat stress.

Advanced genomic monitoring/testing

Kevin Sneed, PharmD, dean of the USF College of Pharmacy, said advanced genomic testing and monitoring, which provides an assessment of cardiovascular genes, helps detect any genetic abnormalities early. “This type of technology would provide awareness, and, most of all, give information for a more targeted intervention to prevent future complications,” says Dr. Sneed.

Maintain a balanced weight

Excessive weight gain increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. According to Center for Disease Control and Prevention, weight gain leads to high cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes. “To keep the body in check, remain physically active and, above all, consume whole foods rather than processed foods,” says Mary Soliman, PharmD, assistant professor at USF College of Pharmacy.

Get regular exams

USF Health cardiovascular experts suggest that having regular heart screenings is important – checking the heart rate, blood pressure, body fat and blood sugar. They believe regular screenings keep people informed, which ultimately help prevent heart disease.

Know family history  

Knowing about the family history is important. Having a relative or family member suffering from heart disease, greatly increases one’s risk. “If you have a family history of heart disease or a personal history of heart health risk factors (smoking, obesity, high blood pressure and cholesterol), you may just need to be more diligent in monitoring your heart health,” says Gregory M. Gutierrez, PhD, assistant professor at the USF Health School of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Sciences.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle

Keeping an overall healthy lifestyle is the secret to a healthy heart. USF Health experts all agree that lifestyle is key to lowering the risk of heart disease. Exercising, eating healthy, avoiding smoking and second hand-smoking and managing stress, lead to better heart health.

What women need to do

Heart disease causes, symptoms and outcomes may be different in women than in men, says Theresa Beckie, PhD, professor and cardiovascular health researcher at USF College of Nursing and Department of Cardiovascular Sciences in the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine. “Women represent a particularly high-risk phenotype. So, women, especially young women, need to pursue aggressive measures to reduce risks with daily physical activity, a healthy dietary pattern, and stress management,” says Dr. Beckie.

For Bianca Arboleda, who was born in Florida and raised in Puerto Rico, getting into medical school was quite the journey.

Arboleda, who wants to become an obstetrics and gynecology doctor, faced many cultural and language barriers before coming to USF. But, she never gave up.

“I always knew I wanted to become a doctor,” Arboleda said. “So, I am beyond grateful to be an MD student at USF. Every obstacle I encountered along the way, gave me the courage to do better and study harder to make my dream a reality.”

Bianca Arboleda receives her white coat.

Arboleda was one of 173 medical students to take the oath of commitment and receive the coveted white coat in front of families, friends, guests and USF Health leaders – marking the beginning of a remarkable journey into the MD program at the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine (MCOM).

Charles J. Lockwood, MD, MHCM, senior vice president for USF Health and dean of the Morsani College of Medicine, poses with a group of students from Class of 2021.

The White Coat Ceremony, held this year on Sept. 1 at the Tampa Convention Center, is an annual event that welcomes students to the prestigious MD program at USF Health MCOM.

“This is a surreal experience, I’m in medical school,” said Cannon Nelson, who came to USF from Salt Lake City, Utah, and wants to become a pediatric neurosurgeon. “To us, the white coat is the symbol of transition, responsibility and commitment to a greater cause that’s bigger than any of us. It took a lot of work to get here, so being a part of this event today makes it all worth it.”

Cannon Nelson, student in the Class of 2021, is excited to celebrate the big day with his entire family, who flew in from Salt Lake City, Utah.

The Class of 2021 brought in the most selective medical student cohort in the history of the program — with an average MCAT score of 514 — placing it among the top 25 of all medical schools in the country.

This group of students was selected among more than 6,400 applicants – also a record number — giving them a less than three percent chance of getting into the program.

“It feels absolutely amazing to be among such a talented group of students,” said Katie Reming, student from the class of 2021, who wants to go into internal medicine. “No matter how challenging the road ahead may be, I feel so incredibly grateful for this opportunity and to be surrounded by such supportive faculty, staff and fellow students.”

During the event, Charles J. Lockwood, MD, MHCM, senior vice president for USF Health and dean of the Morsani College of Medicine, welcomed the students to the MD program with an inspirational speech about the future of health care and the challenges the field faces ahead.

Dr. Lockwood speaks to students, families and guests. 

“The future of our nation’s health care belongs to those who are unafraid to challenge the status quo, unafraid to think deeply about problems and unafraid to embrace change,” Dr. Lockwood said. “Decades from now, when people look back on this time in health care, my hope is it will be said of all of you that you were the forward-thinking generation of physicians who did not postpone addressing these great challenges – you embraced them. Your generation leveraged tools such as precision medicine, the mining of ‘big data’, cutting edge tissue imaging, and telehealth to improve health while lowering costs.”

This year, the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine Scholarship Fund –the beneficiary of funds raised to sponsor the white coats — was the most successful and largest white coat sponsorship program of all medical schools in the U.S., raising more than $100,000 towards the Class of 2021 scholarships.

“I’d like to thank our faculty, staff, alumni and members of the MCOM Alumni Society Board for their unwavering support in sponsoring white coats for this year’s class,” Dr. Lockwood said. “We are committed to increasing scholarship funding and I’m deeply grateful to all of you who have donated to our White Coat Scholarship fund – you are supporting an amazing group of students.”

Offering the keynote address was Sion “Bill” Carter, MD ’87, chair of the MCOM Alumni Society, who told the new students “The white coat you receive today welcomes you into the community of medicine and signifies your commitment to the long road of training ahead. But most importantly, this ceremony is meant to emphasize the humanistic side of medicine at a time when headwinds can dehumanize its practice.”

Sion “Bill” Carter, MD ’87, chair of the MCOM Alumni Society, gave the keynote address at the event.

City of Tampa Mayor, Bob Buckhorn spoke to the new students during the ceremony and welcomed them to the city of Tampa.

City of Tampa Mayor, Bob Buckhorn.

“This is an exciting time for USF, an exciting time for Tampa and an exciting time for all these young people,” Mayor Buckhorn told the crowd. “This is a city that’s risen from the worst recession since the Great Depression. This is the city of hope, the city of destiny and a city where young people are flocking to. For those of you who will spend four years with us, you are in the midst and part of an amazing renaissance American city. We want you to make Tampa your home when you complete this journey. I promise you this that you’re going to learn to love this place.”

Rose Tillis, a current fourth-year medical student and president of the MCOM student council, spoke to the new students about humanism in medicine and the responsibility of wearing the white coat.

“All of you have a gift,” Tillis said. “It’s a gift of intellect, compassion, motivation and determination, and a decent amount of stubbornness. That’s how you got here. But that gift comes with the responsibility to give back. And that’s what you’ll learn while you’re here. You have the ability to change the trajectory of your patients’ lives, just by walking with them in the hallway. That’s what this white coat represents, and that is the responsibility that comes with it.”

The Class of 2021 also received a copy of “On Doctoring,” a compilation of poems, fiction and essays edited by John Stone, a physician writer, and USF Health’s Lois Nixon, MPH, PhD, professor in the Division of Medical Ethics and Humanities. The books are provided by the Arnold P. Gold Foundation.

To conclude the special evening, the new students recited the Oath of Commitment — a promise they make to the health care profession and their patients.

“This is an important milestone in the journey of becoming a physician,” Reming said. “In some ways it’s celebratory, recognizing that all of the hard work involved in getting to this point has paid off. At the same time, I think it also symbolizes a transition from living life as a regular member of society, to becoming part of the health care profession, which necessitates a higher standard of behavioral expectations, has ethical implications and includes social responsibilities.”

Ameyo Jereen, student from the Class of 2021, is excited to finally wear her white coat.

“This is a celebration of the start of a difficult but rewarding journey in which we will learn intricate details about our bodies, our minds and our society,” said Ameyo Jereen, student from the Class of 2021, who wants to go into neuroscience. “I am very excited and honored to partake in this ceremony to mark the start of this wonderful journey.”

Arboleda celebrates this important milestone with her parents and siblings.

Among the Class of 2021 medical students receiving a white coat was Madeline Carney, shown here as a baby held by her mother Nancy Murphy at Murphy’s USF College of Medicine graduation ceremony in 1996. As she was walking off stage with her new white coat, the now young adult Carney shared a hug with Associate Vice President and MCOM Obstetrics and Gynecology Professor Dr. Catherine Lynch. “I haven’t seen you in a while, I delivered you,” Lynch told her.

Story by Vjollca Hysenlika and photos by Eric Younghans, Sandra C. Roa and Frederick Coleman, USF Health Communications and Marketing

It’s an exciting time at USF Health. Colleges across health disciplines celebrated the new fall semester, welcoming more than 1,600 new students to different programs.

In this blog post, we break down the numbers from each USF Health college, school and program including Morsani College of Medicine, College of Nursing, College of Public Health, College of Pharmacy and School of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Sciences.

USF College of Nursing

The USF College of Nursing welcomed 678 students this fall, an impressive increase in undergraduate and graduate programs.

The college enrolled 395 students in the graduate programs — including 225 new students in the master’s programs, 50 students in the CRNA program, 112 students in the Doctor of Nursing Practice, eight students in the PhD program and 30 students in the pain management certificate.

The college has also enrolled 253 students in the undergraduate program, with 150 students in the RN-BS program, 82 students in the upper division sequence and 21 in the veteran to bachelor’s program (VCARE).

USF College of Nursing’s RN-BS students for Fall 2017.

USF College of Pharmacy

USF College of Pharmacy enrolled 126 students in the college’s PharmD and Masters of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology programs.

This fall, the college welcomed its seventh group of 101 students to one of the top PharmD programs in the country. The college’s masters of pharmaceutical nanotechnology enrolled 25 new students.

The new group of PharmD students, class of 2021. 

Morsani College of Medicine

Morsani College of Medicine welcomed 174 students to its prestigious MD program. Forty-eight of those students are in the SELECT program, which recruits and develops students with the intellectual perspective, empathy, creativity and passion to change patient care, the health of communities and the medical profession.

USF Health Morsani College of Medicine celebrates the new Class of 2021 at the Tampa Museum of Art.

Biomedical Sciences Graduate and Postdoctoral Programs

The MCOM’s Biomedical Sciences Graduate and Postdoctoral programs enrolled 280 students this fall.

Of the 17 matriculates in the medical science PhD program, five come from underrepresented ethnic groups in the life sciences. The average GPA is 3.49.

The program also welcomed 263 students to its various master’s degrees and concentrations, including:

• 150 in the Master of Science in Medical Sciences
• 29 in the Master of Science in Medical Sciences, Health Sciences concentration (100% online)
• 15 in the Master of Science in Medical Sciences, Aging & Neuroscience concentration
• 26 in the Master of Science in Medical Sciences, Anatomy concentration:
• 10 in the Master of Science in Medical Sciences, Women’s Health concentration
• 7 in the Master of Science in Medical Sciences, Molecular Medicine concentration
• 4 in the Master of Science in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology
• 2 in the Master of Science in Biotechnology
• 20 in the Master of Science in Advanced Athletic Training

Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Sciences

The USF School of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Sciences welcomed 52 Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students to its class of 2020 this fall.

USF College of Public Health

USF College of Public Health welcomed 295 students to their undergraduate and graduate programs.

The college enrolled a record number of 31 new students into its DPH program this fall.

The college also brought in 171 students in the master’s in public health program, 14 students in the MSPH program, nine students in the master’s in health administration, 58 students in the BS program and 12 in the PhD program.

New USF COPH students attend fall 2017 orientation.

Stay tuned, more to come…

USF College of Nursing professor, John Clochesy, PhD, collaborates with engineers on virtual technology to help patients manage their own health.

Dr. Clochesy teamed up with researchers and engineers at University of Central Florida and Case Western University to design an interactive video game technology to help improve patient care.

John Clochesy, PhD, professor and senior assistant dean of the PhD program at the USF College of Nursing.

“The virtual support technology helps patients and caregivers become members of the team that manages their own health,” said Dr. Clochesy, who is also the senior assistant dean of the PhD program at the USF College of Nursing. “Interactions with health care providers are sometimes difficult, but if we give people a chance to practice in the virtual world without putting themselves at risk, maybe they would do better. The technology allows people to experience, learn from that experience and take whatever they learn into the clinical setting.”

Dr. Clochesy and his team created several virtual support technologies. The most recent versions are being evaluated in two different randomized controlled trials.

For the first study, Dr. Clochesy teamed up with Vicki Loerzel PhD, associate professor at UCF, to create a virtual game to help older adults manage their cancer symptoms. The study helps cancer patients better manage chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting. This trial, which studies 66 participants, will be completed in 2018.

This version of the virtual game helps older adults manage their cancer symptoms.

For the second study, Dr. Clochesy partnered with Ronald L. Hickman, Jr., PhD, associate professor at the Case Western Reserve University, to help educate caregivers of chronically critically ill patients. This trial aims to help caregivers make informed decisions about critically ill patients at the end of life. This study is planned to be completed in 2020.

This version of the game aims to educate caregivers of the chronically critically ill patients.

The virtual support is developed using an avatar-based decision support technology fit for various digital platforms and devices. The risk-free technology helps improve self-management of chronic illness and health outcomes.

“Patients can learn in a virtual reality focusing on real-life events,” Dr. Clochesy said. “The game goes through different situations in various locations and settings where patients and caregivers can learn and practice at the same time. For example, after cancer patients go through chemotherapy, they are presented scenarios where patient-like avatars go into a drug store to get their medication or interact with pharmacists. The game also presents questions on the screen and asks the patients if they’re thirsty or if they need to take their medication – allowing the patient to not only watch but also interact.”

The two studies are funded by grants from National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR), a part of the National Institutes of Health. The researchers have also previously received funding from American Nurses’ Foundation, a program created by Sigma Theta Tau International.

The virtual support technology is not new. Dr. Clochesy and his team of interdisciplinary researchers initially developed the technology in 2009. Their previous studies were focused on an electronic self-management resource training platform called eSMART to help teach people how to better communicate with their health care providers.

The various adaptations of eSMART have shown significant improvements for people suffering with depression and high blood pressure. Since these studies began, Dr. Clochesy and his team have published more than 10 studies in major publications nationwide.

Dr. Clochesy hopes the new version of the virtual game shows similar improvements on cancer patents and decision makers for critically ill patients.

“Chronic illness is costing a fortune in this country,” Clochesy said. “The majority of the care is done by patients and families themselves. But, if they don’t do it well, they end up in the hospital — spending a lot of money. So, if we can teach people to better take care of themselves, we can have better health outcomes and we can also control health care costs.”

The technology appears promising. So, Dr. Clochesy hopes to eventually take the virtual support game to health facilities or home health agencies to help improve patients’ quality of life and help reduce health care costs.

Story and photos by Vjollca Hysenlika, USF Health Communications. 

The Charter Class of the USF Health Physician Assistant (PA) program made their commitment to the profession during the inaugural White Coat Ceremony on May 26 at the USF Gibbons Alumni Center.

During the event, the Class of 2019 took the oath and received their first white coats in front of friends, family, guests and USF Health leaders – marking the beginning of a remarkable journey into the PA program at the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine.

The Charter Class of the USF Health Physician Assistant (PA) Program.

Charles J. Lockwood, MD, MHCM, senior vice president for USF Health and dean of the Morsani College of Medicine, welcomed the PA inaugural cohort and congratulated them for entering into one of the fastest growing careers in medicine.

Charles J. Lockwood, MD, senior vice president for USF Health and dean of the Morsani College of Medicine, speaks to students and attendees at the inaugural PA white coat ceremony.

“We’re delighted to have assembled our first-ever group of compassionate and brilliant PA candidates,” Dr. Lockwood said. “This future belongs to you and it all starts here today. The white coat you will receive is not only a uniform, not only a marker for the beginning of your course as a physician assistant, but a well-recognized symbol of trust and understanding – a commitment to provide great patient care, and also to accept great personal responsibility.”

Dr. Lockwood also recognized donors for their continuous support and contribution to the USF Health PA program, and who sponsored 100 percent of the white coats for this Class of 2019.

“Thank you to all the people who generously donated to our White Coat PA Scholarship fund and are supporting the PA students’ academic success,” Dr. Lockwood said.

The USF Health PA Program was established to help meet the growing demand for health care providers, especially those in primary care. The 30 students in the charter class were chosen from more than 1,500 applicants (50 to 1 ratio, or 2 percent). Students officially began classes on May 8.

“It’s incredible to be one of the few select students to be part of the Charter Class of 2019,” said Katherine Lucas, PA student. “USF Health is a reputable institution and well-known in the community, so to be part of this program is a really special feeling.”

During the inaugural ceremony, Todd Wills, MD, assistant dean and program director for the USF Health Physician Assistant Program, discussed the importance of the white coat and its significance as a sign of respect and compassion between patients and clinicians.

Todd Wills, MD, assistant dean and program director for the USF Health Physician Assistant Program, discusses the importance of the white coat and its significance for PA students.

“Today, you become our colleagues as we share a high interest in the well-being of our patients and the health of our community,” Dr. Wills said. “Your journey to get here has been long, and the journey ahead will be even longer. But with the support of USF Health faculty, staff, leaders and peers, this will be the beginning of an outstanding career and a day to be remembered.”

Students then one-by-one walked to the stage to receive the white coat — taking a symbolic step on their journey toward becoming PAs. Along with the white coat, they also received a special white and gold lapel pin, which signifies the students’ commitment to the care and dedication of their future patients. Beaming with pride and excitement, PA student Shivani Shah said the ceremony was an unforgettable moment.

Students receive their white coats.

“This is the moment I’ve been waiting for a very long time,” Shah said. “It will be a tough two years, but today pushes us to work hard and commit to the wonderful journey of becoming physician assistants.”

Before the end came for the ceremony, which was in part sponsored by the Arnold P. Gold Foundation, students recited their Physician Assistant Oath, a students’ pledge to follow the highest professional code of ethics and always make the patients’ health, safety and privacy their highest priority.

PA students recite their Physician Assistant Oath.

“Your job here at USF and going forward is not only to become a great physician assistant, but also to grow as a person who engages in routine self-reflection and one who goes out of your way to establish trust, respect and a sense of belonging among and between all of your unique selves here at USF,” said Gretchen Koehler, PhD, senior associate dean of the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine and assistant vice president of USF Health.

Gretchen Koehler, Ph.D. senior associate dean of the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine and assistant vice president of USF Health, makes closing remarks.

The Charter Class of 2019 includes:

Story by Vjollca Hysenlika, USF Health Marketing and Communications
Photos by Frederick Coleman, USF Health Marketing and Communications

//www.youtube.com/watch?v=soX8igiEl8k

For Brittany Hay, DNP, nursing runs in the family. The passion to serve is in her blood. It’s in her DNA.

Dr. Hay, instructor at the USF College of Nursing, is one of seven family members to dedicate her life to nursing.

Brittany Hay, DNP, instructor at USF College of Nursing.

“I come from a large family of nurses,” Dr. Hay said. “My grandfather, my father, my mother, my older sister, my twin brother and one of my aunts, are all nurses.”

(L to R). Breton Blair, twin brother, Kim Hanna, sister, Zarah Blair, mother, Ken Blair, father, and Dr. Brittany Hay.

Dr. Hay, who is one of five children, was born and raised in a small town in Pennsylvania. Since she was a child, she was surrounded by those who served – so, becoming a nurse was an obvious choice.

This journey started with Dr. Hay’s mother after she became a registered nurse through the Citizens General Hospital diploma program in 1962. Shortly after, her grandfather and father decided to change careers and go to nursing school. Then, the rest of the family members followed.

“My family had a calling to serve, and nursing was the vehicle that helped them get there,” Dr. Hay said. “My grandfather and parents saw a need in the community, and they became nurses to fulfill that need — and help people heal. It was a means to an end.”

Dr. Hay’s grandparents turned their farmhouse into a nursing home to provide health care services to older patients in their small community. Their nursing home is still open today.

Dr. Hay’s grandparents, Charlie and Helena Brown. 

“My siblings and I are proud of my grandparents and parents and what they’ve done for their community,” Dr. Hay said. “They have been our inspiration. That’s why we proudly followed into their footsteps.”

Dr. Hay’s twin brother is a nurse practitioner, and her older sister is an acute care nurse. They each have chosen different paths in the nursing field, but their passion to serve remains the same.

“Even though, we’ve moved to different states and are serving patients in various ways, we still practice the strong, compassionate nursing values, which our parents and grandparents instilled in us.”

Dr. Hay’s parents Ken and Zarah Blair in front of the family’s nursing home. They are both fellows in the American College of Health Care Administrators for their dedication to nursing and the patients they served.

For almost 30 years, Dr. Hay has continued to make her mark in the nursing field as a nurse and nurse practitioner — serving patients in diverse communities in Boston and rural areas of Florida.

Dr. Hay receiving her nursing pin during traditional pinning ceremony at Boston University in 1988.

“Becoming a nurse practitioner has been the honor of my life,” Dr. Hay said. “I find tremendous joy in providing care for patients in rural areas where health care is often out of reach.”

After decades of nursing practice, she decided to join USF in 2015 and teach nursing students. While teaching, she also completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in 2016 at the USF College of Nursing.

(L to R): USF College of Nursing’s instructors Marcia Johansson, DNP, Deborah Cantero, DNP, Dr. Hay and Rebecca Lutz, DNP, during their DNP commencement ceremony in Dec. 2016.

“I’m happy to pass on my passion for nursing to my students,” Dr. Hay said. “It’s been exciting to give them the knowledge and the tools in the areas of quality improvement, leadership, and role development to be successful in their own careers.”

Dr. Hay, who is married with two children, is also passing her passion for health care to her children. Her son is a pre-medical student at the University of Central of Florida with the goal to one day attend medical school.

“My mom inspired me to consider health care as a career,” said Jordan Hay, Dr. Hay’s son. “Seeing her improve patients’ lives every day, allowed me to think about those possibilities. I’m hoping that one day I will also join my mom, my grandparents, my aunt and uncle, and be a part of this amazing journey.”

Story and video by Vjollca Hysenlika, USF Health Communications and Marketing.
Most photos provided by Dr. Brittany Hay. 

It was an unforgettable night for USF Health students at the 111^th USF Commencement Ceremony – marking the end of a chapter and the beginning of a new journey.

More than 450 students walked across the big stage on May 5 at the USF Sun Dome to receive their doctoral, master’s and bachelor’s degrees in front of their peers, professors, friends, families, USF leaders and distinguished guests.

USF Health students graduate at the 111^th USF Commencement Ceremony on May 5 at the USF Sun Dome. 

“Today, you join a community of scholars that spans the world; a community that has sought truth through knowledge,” said USF System President Judy Genshaft. “It’s a community that for centuries has chosen a relentless pursuit of possibilities. A community that treasures the value of differences and diversity of thought.”

USF System President Judy Genshaft addresses the Spring 2017 USF Health graduates.

In its third year, the USF Health Commencement brought together students from College of Pharmacy, College of Nursing, College of Public Health, Morsani College of Medicine’s Biomedical Sciences Graduate and Postdoctoral Programs and School of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Sciences. This year, USF College of Pharmacy graduated its largest class to date.

The USF Health graduates were among 5,700 students to graduate in Spring 2017 from across the USF System. The diverse group of students came from 50 states and 106 nations.

Students celebrate their milestone before walking across the big stage.

During the ceremony, President Genshaft honored outstanding students who overcame odds to successfully complete their degrees.

• Giovanna Middlebrook, a student from the USF College of Pharmacy, was recognized for her courage to overcome adversity after moving to the United States from Bolivia with her mother when she was 6 years old. When she arrived to the United States, she did not speak English, so the transition was not easy. Despite those challenges, she successfully completed the Doctor of Pharmacy degree.
• Kyle Watterson, doctoral student in the health services research program at the College of Public Health, donated bone marrow through the Be The Match Foundation to honor his late father-in-law – one of his biggest supporters. While in the PhD program, Watterson taught various physical therapy, policy and management classes. He was also the recipient of numerous student research awards from the College of Public Health and the Morsani College of Medicine.
• Jin Wei, who graduated with his PhD in medical science from Morsani College of Medicine, is thankful to USF for providing him the proper education and training to foster his career in cardiovascular research. While in the program, Wei received numerous cardiovascular research awards from USF and other research organizations.
• Jennifer Kirlangitis, a registered nurse for almost 30 years, came to USF to pursue the registered nurse to bachelor of science in nursing (RN-BS) program from College of Nursing. While raising four children and working full-time as a nurse, Kirlangitis graduated with top honors.

Excited students gear up for a memorable commencement ceremony. 

Charles J. Lockwood, MD, senior vice president for USF Health and dean of the Morsani College of Medicine, joined President Genshaft in congratulating all the graduates for their outstanding academic achievement.

“We’re incredibly proud of all our students for accomplishing this incredible milestone,” Dr. Lockwood said. “Over the course of the last few years, they’ve really learned to work together interprofessionally as a team including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, physical therapists and public health experts. So, this is a valuable and unique aspect of the education they receive here at USF Health.”

Charles J. Lockwood, MD, senior vice president for USF Health and dean of the Morsani College of Medicine, honors students who graduated with top honors. 

During the event, Dr. Lockwood recognized students who consistently met the highest level of academic performance. One of them was Mary Alao, a student in the bachelor’s of science program at the College of Public Health. She received the King O’Neal award for graduating with a 4.0 GPA. She was one of 34 students in the USF System Spring 2017 graduating class to receive such recognition.

President Genshaft and Dr. Lockwood presented the USF Honorary Degree to Julio Frenk, MD, PhD, president of the University of Miami. Dr. Frenk is a well-known physician from Mexico, who has helped transform health care for many decades.

President Genshaft and Dr. Lockwood presented the USF Honorary Degree to Julio Frenk, MD, PhD, president of the University of Miami. Donna Petersen, ScD, dean of the USF College of Public Health and interim dean of the College of Nursing, assists with the ceremonial hooding.

Prior to joining University of Miami, Dr. Frenk was the dean of the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and the T&G Angelopoulos professor of Public Health and International Development, a joint appointment with the Harvard Kennedy School of Government.

From 2000 to 2006, Dr. Frenk served as the Minister of Health for Mexico. While there, he pursued an ambitious agenda to reform the nation’s health system. He also introduced a program of comprehensive universal coverage, known as Seguro Popular, which expanded access to health care for more than 55 million uninsured Mexicans. He was also the founding director-general of the National Institute of Public Health in Mexico, one of the leading institutions of its kind in the developing world.

Dr. Frenk addresses the Spring 2017 graduates after receiving the USF Honorary Degree. 

“Whether you are receiving a degree from the colleges of medicine, pharmacy, nursing or public health, you have made an existential commitment to improving the human condition through your unique blend of knowledge, skills, strength and your compassionate care,” Dr. Frenk said in his address to the Spring 2017 USF Health graduates after receiving his honorary degree from USF.

As part of the USF Commencement tradition, PhD student Lecia Brown, who migrated to United States from Jamaica at 9 years old, was selected to give the student address at the ceremony. Brown completed her PhD in medical sciences with a concentration in neuroscience at the Morsani College of Medicine. During her speech, she told fellow graduates that standing up at the podium was a big honor and privilege.

Lecia Brown, PhD student in the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine, addresses fellow graduates.

“Graduates, you are at the top, but your journey is just beginning,” said Brown, who started LAMB Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides scholarships to children in Jamaica.  “You can transform your success into tools to enable someone else’s success. This may be your last degree, but the truth is, no matter where you are on this path, never stop dreaming and chasing your dreams.”

USF College of Pharmacy students celebrate their big day.

Story by Vjollca Hysenlika and photos by Sandra C. Roa, USF Health Communications and Marketing 

The USF College of Pharmacy hosted a research symposium with top scientists and experts to discuss medical cannabis and its impact on patient health.

The event, held on April 28 at the USF Patel Center for Global Solutions, focused on separating the medical cannabis stigma from science.

Kevin Sneed, PharmD, founding dean of the USF College of Pharmacy.

“We’re thrilled to bring together worldwide experts, scientists and clinicians to have an open conversation about medical cannabis,” said Kevin Sneed, PharmD, dean of the USF College of Pharmacy. “Our goal here is to discuss cannabis research, current regulations and policies, and how it could help people with various medical problems.”

Florida voters approved the medical marijuana constitutional amendment for patients with debilitating conditions on Nov. 8, 2016. However, the bill (HB 1397) has not been fully passed through the Florida Senate and House of Representatives.

A diverse group of experts from USF Health and around the world gathered to discuss the issue, including Michael Dor, MD, medical director for the Medical Cannabis Unit at the Ministry of Health in Israel, and Juan Sanchez-Ramos, MD, PhD, professor in the Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology at the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine.

(L to R). Nissim Garti, PhD, CEO of Lyotropic Delivery Systems, Michael Dor, MD, medical director for the Medical Cannabis Unit at the Ministry of Health in Israel, Mark Rosenfeld, PhD, CEO and CSO of Ananda Scientific, Juan Sanchez-Ramos, MD, PhD, professor in the Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology at the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine, and Mark Kindy, PhD, professor in the Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology at the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine, answer questions from the audience.

During the event, which was hosted in collaboration with Ananda Scientific, a company that produces nonpsychoactive and nonabusive oral cannabinoid health products, experts emphasized the importance of cannabis research in the areas of safety, quality and effectiveness that are critical to the treatment of a variety of diseases.

“We’re trying to distinguish between the stigma, which is marijuana, and the science, which is cannabis,” Dr. Sanchez-Ramos said. “Medical cannabis can be useful for a limited range of conditions. But, as clinicians and scientists, we need to conduct research that carefully defines those conditions, the doses, and the dose schedules that will work for the patient.”

That’s why USF College of Pharmacy is hoping to take the lead in conducting top-quality research on medical cannabis and find the correct oral formulation that’s beneficial to the patients and their overall health.

“We want to stay true to our expertise and our profession of pharmacy,” Dr. Sneed said. “Our goal is to find the proper formulation that does not involve hallucinogenic or euphoric side effects, but hopefully will involve something anti-inflammatory and medicinal that helps improve patients’ health.”

This is not an easy solution; however, the symposium is a first step, Dr. Sneed said. The USF College of Pharmacy hopes to work closely with USF researchers, clinicians and local business partners, taking a structured evidence-based approach to conduct research on medical cannabis.

Dr. Kevin Sneed speaks to the media about the symposium.

“We want to be the solution to the problem,” Dr. Sneed said. “Through our evidence-based approach, we want to conduct research to effect policy and provide clear evidence about the value of medicinal cannabis to improve the lives of patients and our community.”

Story by Vjollca Hysenlika, USF Health Communications and Marketing
Photos by Eric Younghans, USF Health Communications and Marketing

Persistence and determination paid off for the Class of 2017 at the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine.

After four years of hard work and rigor, the senior graduating medical students became doctors — accepting their academic hoods and diplomas in front of friends, family, USF leaders and guests during the commencement ceremony on April 20 in the Carol Morsani Hall at the Straz Center for Performing Arts.

The 2017 USF Health Morsani College of Medicine’s 43rd Commencement Ceremony was held at at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts.

“This is your day, your stage and a testament of your tireless determination over the past four years,” said Charles J. Lockwood, MD, senior vice president for USF Health and dean of the Morsani College of Medicine, during the ceremony. “I know how hard you all have worked to get here — studying into the wee hours, worrying about exams, learning how to navigate hospital labyrinths, master presentations and how to keep up with medical knowledge that doubles every 73 days.”

Charles J. Lockwood, MD, senior vice president for USF Health and dean of the Morsani College of Medicine, makes opening remarks at the commencement ceremony.

The Class of 2017, which included 164 graduates, received their doctor of medicine degrees – marking the beginning of their lifelong journey in pursuing the art and science of healing.

USF System President Judy Genshaft congratulates the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine Class of 2017.

“Today you join a community of health care professionals that spans every continent of the world; a community that contributes to the advancement of our society through a commitment to making life better,” said USF System President Judy Genshaft.

During the ceremony, Dr. Genshaft presented a USF Honorary Degree to Victor J. Dzau, MD, president of the National Academy of Medicine. Dr. Dzau, who was the guest speaker at the commencement ceremony, received the distinguished USF degree for his extraordinary leadership in academic medicine, translational research, health care innovation, national health policy and global health.

President Genshaft and Dr. Lockwood present the USF Honorary Degree to Victor J. Dzau, MD, president of the National Academy of Medicine. 

Dr. Dzau, chancellor emeritus and the James B. Duke Professor of Medicine at Duke University and former president and CEO of the Duke University Health System, is an internationally renowned physician scientist and pioneer of gene therapy for vascular disease. His groundbreaking work has focused on the molecular and genetic mechanisms of cardiovascular disease and the development of gene and stem-based therapies to regenerate tissue damage from heart attack and heart disease.

After receiving the Honorary Degree, Dr. Dzau delivered an inspirational commencement address –bringing graduates and attendees to their feet.

Special commencement guest speaker, Victor J. Dzau, MD, president of the National Academy of Medicine.

“You are among the most valuable contributions that USF will make to our society,” Dr. Dzau said. “You are the future leaders we need right now to help tackle big challenges. We need you to do the research and to make those great leaps forward. We need you to provide your patients with the best available evidence-based care. And now, more than ever, we need you to share that evidence – and yes, to defend it — beyond the walls of the clinic or the laboratory. We need you to make sure that research and medical advances are benefitting not just some of us, but all of us.”

John A. Brabson, Jr., the chairman of the Tampa General Hospital Board of Directors, was also honored with the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine Dean’s Award. Brabson received the award for his tireless work to strengthen the relationship of USF Health Morsani College of Medicine and TGH, USF Health’s primary teaching hospital. The long-time partnership helps advance the reputation of both institutions.

Dr. Lockwood honors John A. Brabson, Jr., the chairman of the Tampa General Hospital Board of Directors, with the Dean’s Award.

Then, the students recited the Oath of Hippocrates, led by Bryan Bognar, MD, vice dean of the Office of Educational Affairs for the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine. Following the Oath of Hippocrates, Dr. Genshaft conferred the Doctor of Medicine degree to the students, and as each name was recited by Kira Zwygart, MD, professor and associate dean for MCOM Student Affairs, students walked to center stage to receive their academic hoods and diplomas.

As part of a long college tradition, graduate Robert S. Ackerman, MD, was selected to provide the Farewell from the Class. Dr. Ackerman told his fellow graduates that becoming a doctor is a privilege and an honor of a lifetime.

Robert S. Ackerman, MD, delivered the Farewell from the Class.

“Today is awesome. Really, really awesome,” said Dr. Ackerman. “No other day in our lifetimes will rival the emotions of today. Becoming a doctor is a special privilege we can only dream of and for it to become a reality today is purely superb. For us, this is the culmination of four years of studying PowerPoints, reading EKGs, retracting incisions, answering question banks, delivering babies. While today the medical student tag drops off and the white coat lengthens a few inches, it’s not without appreciation of the time and effort that went into it.”

Dr. Ackerman also told his fellow graduates and attendees that medical school is unlike any other experience. He said, he and his classmates shared a special bond unlike any other as they went through their journey of becoming doctors.

“Remember what we shared together,” Dr. Ackerman said. “This is the closest group of classmates this school has seen, and our friendships will only grow stronger with time. Appreciate the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine, appreciate USF, and come back to visit the roots you laid in Tampa. We’re leaving today, but we’re never gone.”

Before the 2017 MCOM Commencement came to an end, Steven C. Specter, PhD, associate dean for Alumni Relations and director of MD Career Advising, presented the Charge to the Graduates. Dr. Specter told students to read, reflect, treat every person with respect, show compassion and always remember to stay connected to USF.

“Doctors, congratulations.  You have reached the goal, the MD degree you set out to achieve when you entered medical school,” said Dr. Specter. “After 38 years, I could not be more strongly connected to USF and this prestigious USF Health Morsani College of Medicine. I bought into the philosophy that USF means ‘you stay forever.’ My wish for you is that you come to love this institution, because it set you on a course that results in your success. Give back what you can, when you can, for as it has been stated, ‘When you help others you can’t help helping yourself.’”

Steven C. Specter, PhD, associate dean for Alumni Relations and director of the MD Career Advising, presented the Charge to the Graduates.

From left, graduates Cady Welch, MD; Alec Chaleff, MD; Michael Carr, MD; and Kathleen McFadden, MD; pictured with Dr. Lockwood (center). During the commencement breakfast, the four graduates were recognized for their exceptional academic achievements as USF medical students.

The special military promotions ceremony took place after the commencement ceremony. Seven new physicians — Navy Lieutenants Kevin Bobeck, Phillip Castrovinci, Emily Wilson, Shaunn Hussey, William Rallya, Reid Wilson, and Army Capt. Paloma Irizarry — took the Oath of Commission as military officers.

Graduates read the Oath of Hippocrates.

Graduates greeted by faculty, friends and family after commencement ceremony.

Graduates celebrate their big moment with friends and family.

Story by Vjollca Hysenlika, and photos by Eric Younghans and Frederick Coleman| USF Health Communications and Marketing

Research shows breastfeeding is good for babies. But is breastfeeding also good for mothers and their long-term health?

Adetola F. Louis-Jacques, MD, a fellow in the Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine,USF Health Morsani College of Medicine Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, is focusing her research study on the benefits of breastfeeding and maternal health.

Adetola F. Louis-Jacques, MD, a fellow in the Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine,USF Health Morsani College of Medicine Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

To do this, she recently received the 2017 Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) and the American Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Foundation (AAOGF) award from the Foundation of SMFM. She is the only fellow in the country to receive the prestigious award.

Dr. Louis-Jacques received $360,000 to study the influence of lactation on DNA methylation and gut microbiome among breastfeeding women and its impact on their long-term health.

“Breastfeeding not only benefits the baby, but it could also benefit the mom – potentially lowering the risk of heart disease, diabetes, hyperextension and breast and ovarian cancers,” Dr. Louis-Jacques said. “However, there is not enough research to know for sure. So, the award allows me to explore breastfeeding’s long-term effects through epigenetic modifications and microbiome modulation.”

Dr. Louis-Jacques will study the difference in methylation patterns and microbial composition between breastfeeding women and formula feeding women. To compare, she plans to recruit 47 women who are breastfeeding at four to six months after giving birth and 47 women who are formula feeding.

Dr. Louis-Jacques will work closely with her primary mentors at USF Health, Charles J. Lockwood, MD, senior vice president for USF Health and dean of the Morsani College of Medicine, and Maureen Groer, PhD, nurse scientist and Gordon Keller professor at USF College of Nursing. Dr. Lockwood and Dr. Groer will guide her through each stage of this study.

Dr. Louis-Jacques and Maureen Groer, PhD, nurse scientist and Gordon Keller professor at USF College of Nursing.

“This research will be important to maternal health,” Dr. Groer said. “If we find that the act of lactation could have long-term benefits for women and protect their health when they are 50 and 60 years old, that’s just one more calling card that we could show to promote breastfeeding.”

Dr. Louis-Jacques’ award will take effect in July 2017 — running through 2020. The award, funded jointly by the Foundation for SMFM and AAOGF, is given to future academic physician leaders who conduct research in the area of pregnancy.

“Maternal health is my passion,” Dr. Louis-Jacques said. “So, I am excited to spend my next three years conducting such important research that could potentially improve women’s health.”

Story by Vjollca Hysenlika