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VISTA VIEW
October 2019 Newsletter
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AACOM Excellence in Communications Award
NEWSLET
RVU Welcomes a New Class of DO, PA, and MSBS Students! Inside: You Spoke, We Listened: Changes to the Vista View Page 3 Vista View
From Science Fiction to Reality
RVU Creates First Digital Health Track in the U.S. Page 12
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Faculty and staff participate in a pound class, as part of the ongoing Get Fit Friday series
Table of Contents FEATURES
IN EACH ISSUE
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You Spoke, We Listened
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Research and Grants
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Welcome, RVUCOM Class of 2023
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Promotions and Appointments
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PA-ving the Way for Class of 2021
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MSBS Welcomes Its Fourth Class
Welcome to Our New Faculty and Staff Achieving New Heights
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RVU Creates First Digital Health Track in U.S.
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From the RVU Alumni Association
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Students Research Drones for Search and Rescue
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Campus Tidbits
The Vista View newsletter is published four times a year by the Marketing Department of Rocky Vista University. Please send your ideas, feedback, and submissions to Marketing@rvu.edu.
Want to see even more photos from each RVU event? Visit our Facebook pages at: www.facebook.com/RockyVistaUniversity www.facebook.com/RockyVistaUniversitySouthernUtah
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You Spoke, We Listened
by Julie Rosenthal, MS, Vice President of Enrollment Management and External Relations Dear RVU Community: Earlier this year we surveyed RVU faculty, staff, students, alumni, and the Board of Trustees to receive feedback on the Vista View. The overwhelming response was that the publication was too large with too much fluff. It was recommended that we pare down the narrative and include more photos. Additionally, one of the recommendations made by the EVP Affiliation Action Team, led by Laura Dement, was to send out more frequent communications to all members of the RVU Community (such as the weekly update Dr. Park sends out at the Southern Utah campus). As a result of the recommendations, we have significantly scaled back the Vista View and focused primarily on the achievements of our community. We are putting more focus on our blog (RVUBlog.com) which includes frequently updated news on all programs and both of our campuses. In addition, our social media sites are updated on a regular basis—don't forget to follow us! These efforts are just a first step at enhancing communication within our community and creating awareness to show the world how RVU is Achieving New Heights in Medical Education. As always, your feedback is welcomed and encouraged. Please send your suggestions, submissions and any feedback to marketing@rvu.edu. Warmest regards, Julie
RVUCOM Achieves New Accreditation Milestone
Students Shine at Summer Conferences
After a lengthy process which involved all of the departments and the Student Government Association (SGA) of both campuses, RVUCOM has reached a new milestone with accreditation by the Commission on Osteopathic Accreditation (COCA): the ability to wait seven years before the next accreditation site visit! For new osteopathic medical schools, there are a series of steps designed to ensure they are providing the best possible education (both during school and with postgraduate education). Since being granted provisional accreditation in 2007, RVU has worked through each requirement with the goal of reaching this final step. This milestone could not have been reached without the dedication and hard work of students, faculty, and staff.
RVUCOM students presented their research and conducted workshops for physicians at annual osteopathic conferences held over the summer. Students from the Southern Utah campus presented their research during a poster session at the Utah Osteopathic Medical Association’s (UOMA) Annual CME Conference, while Osteopathic Principles and Practice Fellows participated in a highlyacclaimed osteopathic manipulative medicine workshop.
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At the Colorado Society of Osteopathic Medicine (CSOM) Summer CME Conference—co-hosted by the national Regional Osteopathic Medical Education division of the American Osteopathic Association—students in the RVU Ultrasound Interest Group kicked off the event with a successful ultrasound workshop that received outstanding reviews from the attendees. At a special ceremony, David Ross, DO, FACEP, Director of Rural and Wilderness Medicine Track, also accepted the gavel as the new president of CSOM from outgoing president, Joseph Stasio, DO, FACOFP, Chair of the Department of Primary Care Medicine.
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Welcome, RVUCOM Class of 2023!
The first week of school can be an exciting, yet overwhelming experience for new students. To make the transition a bit easier, RVU hosted Orientation Week for matriculating COM classes. For RVUCOM-CO, the week included wellness exercises as part of the "Holistic U at RVU" initiative. Second-year students presented on their experiences in medical school and how they overcame challenges (such as struggling with a healthy work/ life balance and Imposter Syndrome). Students also participated in workshops and a Service Day Project where they put together hygiene kits for the homeless. At RVUCOM-SU, a pool-side social and Escape the Room activity let students get to know each other. Their Service Day project involved packing boxes of donated food items for the Utah Food Bank.
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Clockwise from top-left: Hunter Barnes jokes with classmates at the picnic; Mackenzie Ryan recites the Class Vision Statement; MSBS graduates Taylor Fisher and Onilia Zorio; Michael Kreiser finds a bone during the scavenger hunt; members of the task force that wrote the Class Vision Statement lead the recitation; MSBS graduate Collin Roberts shakes Dr. Told's hand following coating
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“Know your 'why,' share your 'why,' grow your 'why.' This will help you serve your 'why.'� Mark Briesacher, MD, Intermountain Healthcare, RVUCOM-SU's White Coat Ceremony Keynote Speaker
Clockwise from top-left: Schuyler Nebeker loads food into boxes at Service Day; students have a laugh during the White Coat Ceremony; Julian Ortiz and MSBS graduate Desira Vance prepare to recite the Class Vision Statement; students pack boxes during Service Day; Greta Held, Ria Sandhu, Bhavana Seelam, and Jordan Hall receive their white coats; Dana Hoffman and Kristen Valaas following the ceremony
Read more at RVUBlog.com
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PA-ving the Way for PA Class of 2021
For their first week on campus, the PA Class of 2021 took part in numerous activities for their Orientation. A game of “Missing Chair” provided a lively atmosphere for students to get to know their new classmates, faculty, and staff, while a scavenger hunt took them on a fun tour of the campus. The week ended with a ceremony in which students took an oath to “show compassion towards each patient, as well as all members of the community, by choosing responsible care and delivery.”
Clockwise from top: Eric Haskell and Jemari Roberts; Mariela Rodriguez shares a fun fact about herself; Heather Nuich, Caillie Lawrie, and Michelle Kahle share a laugh during the Icebreaker activity; the PA Class of 2021; a group of students work on a group activity. Opposite page, from top: Shannon Johnstad talks with John Burgmeier; Luke Paik is left without a seat in the Missing Chair activity; students work on a group project; loved ones visit the campus for the final day of Orientation.
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MSBS Welcomes Its Fourth Class
In early August, students from the MSBS Class of 2020 were officially matriculated into RVU at the Induction Ceremony, during which they received their white coats as family and friends looked on. The ceremony was the culmination of a week of meeting new classmates, touring the RVU campus, and celebrating their arrival into the MSBS program. During the ceremony, Clinton E. Adams, DO, FACHE, President and CEO of RVU, gave the welcome remarks and reminded the new students to enjoy the journey on which they have embarked. Clockwise from top: Brycen Lauer, Logan Anderson, Isaac Hartman, and Austin White at the reception following the Induction Ceremony; Adrianna Hammack, Stephanie Gedney, and Devin Thomas pose for a photo; Moody Copper Inabangan, Scarlett Kass, and Ali Hourieh meet George Marsh during the Scavenger Hunt; Sofia Rahmanzai receives her white coat during the Induction Ceremony Opposite page, from top: Donald Borchert, Camille Crane, and Stephanie Gedney try to figure out the Icebreaker puzzle; Dr. Zeerak Haider and Dr. Francina Towne; Sarah Bailey, Rachel Abercrombie, Mitchell Ballard, and Logan Anderson gather at Student Financial Services during the Scavenger Hunt; Anjali Patel and a guest enjoy the reception following the Induction Ceremony.
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From Science Fiction to Reality: Robot-Assisted Surgery Over fifty years ago, the Department of Defense explored the concept of robot-assisted trauma surgery as a means of decreasing battlefield casualties. After setbacks in signal transmission to remote areas, the research shifted to robotic platforms that could perform minimally invasive surgical procedures in a hospital setting. In 1993, Anthony J. LaPorta, MD, FACS, Director of the Office of Military Affairs at RVUCOM, was brought onboard to assist in testing the Green TelePresence Machine, a product of the Stanford Research Institute International and the US Army Research Command. He performed the first incision using the robotic surgical system, as well as the first gastric and vascular procedures during animal trials. The Green TelePresence Machine was a precursor to Intuitive Surgical, Inc.’s da Vinci® Surgical System, the most prominently used robotic platform in the world today. The da Vinci® improved upon fragile instrument exchange coupling, inadequate visualization, and an unwieldy setup process. After several trials, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration cleared the da Vinci® for general laparoendoscopic surgeries in 2000. RVUCOM’s Office of Simulation in Medicine and Surgery (SIMS) has held virtual reality da Vinci® robotic surgery labs for students, as well as trained surgery residents and practicing physicians on this advanced technology. Decades of innovative designs turned what was once considered science fiction into reality. As for his early contributions to the development of these robotic surgical systems, Dr. LaPorta said “The ability to change the world and save lives with no one knowing it was you is the ultimate gift to society.” An extended version of this article will be posted at RVUBlog.com in October.
RVU Creates First Digital Health Track in the U.S. Have you ever used a smart watch to monitor your heart rate? What about an ingestible sensor paired with a wearable sensor patch to track the effectiveness of a prescribed medication? Digital health tools like these have the dual benefit of increasing engagement with patients in regards to their own health and providing healthcare providers with a wealth of information. As this technology continues to evolve from lifestyle apps to diagnostic and health monitoring tools, there will be a need for physicians who are trained to use it.
In January of next year, students at RVUCOM with an interest in digital health will have the opportunity to join the Digital Health Track, a new specialized educational track that will be the first program of its kind in the nation. The curriculum, which will require students to complete two digital-related externships during the clinical years, will train students in artificial intelligence, remote monitoring, telemedicine and telehealth, nanotechnology, and much more! Applications for the track will open in October on both campuses.
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Research and Grants Furthering the Pursuit of Innovation and Exploration in Healthcare and Education
Valentina Bonnefil, OMS II, published a paper in eLife and eLife Digest in August. Her research, "Region-specific myelin differences define behavioral consequences of chronic social defeat stress in mice," discusses whether differences in oligodendrocytes (a type of non-neuronal cells which shield and feed nerve cells) could affect how mice responded to social stress. Read more about the research at tinyurl.com/y3nx8r62. Andrew Merleman, OMS II, has published his research, "Alternatives to Rapid Sequence Intubation: Contemporary Airway Management with Ketamine," in the Western Journal of Emergency Medicine (Volume 20, No. 3). This research describes how ketamine (a dissociative anesthetic) may be used to mitigate rapid sequence intubation risks (such as hypoxia and acidosis) during the facilitation of endotracheal intubation (ETI). Rasa Rafie, OMS II, presented her research, “Major Depressive Disorder and Anxiety Co-Morbidity in Patients with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) in an OBOT (Office Based Opioid Treatment) to the Timing of 3 Consecutive Toxicity Screenings� at the National Medical Fellowships Primary Care Leadership Program Symposium. She was inspired to conduct this research following her time in the Primary Care Leadership Program, where she was part of a interdisciplinary team of different specialties to treat primarily patients with OUD. Nicole Twardowski, OMS I, published research, "Effects of Cannabis Use on Sedation Requirements for Endoscopic Procedures" in the Journal of the American Osteopathic Association. This research explores whether regular cannabis use has any effect on the dose of medication needed for sedation during endoscopic procedures. This research has since been cited for articles on CNN, Vice, Newsweek, MDMag.com, and Gizmodo.
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Jake McRae, OMS III, Christopher Gay, OMS III, Brandon Nielsen, OMS III, Andrew Hunt, OMS III, and Andrew Nigh, MD, FACS, Assistant Professor of Specialty Medicine, published research titled, "Using an Unmanned Aircraft System (Drone) to Conduct a Complex High-Altitude Search and Rescue Operation: A Case Study," in the Journal of Wilderness and Environmental Medicine. This research was also presented at XII World Congress on Mountain Medicine International Conference in Nepal last year. Additionally, they also authored "Utilizing Drones to Reliably Restore and Maintain Radio Communication During Difficult Terrain Search and Rescue Operations," which was presented at the 5th International Australian and New Zealand Search and Rescue Conference in Australia, the Mountain Rescue Association National Search and Rescue Conference in Oregon, and the WMS Wilderness Medicine Conference in Colorado. Similarly, Jake McRae, OMS III, Brandon Nielsen, OMS III, Christopher Gay, OMS III, Andrew Hunt, OMS III, Taylor Sirrine, OMS III, and Andrew Nigh, MD, FACS, Assistant Professor of Specialty Medicine, authored "Drones in Maintaining Hydration Pending Search and Rescue Exfiltration," which was presented at the Utah Osteopathic Medical Association Conference in Utah. Read more about this exciting research on utilizing drones in search and rescue efforts on page 13.
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Research and Grants Furthering the Pursuit of Innovation and Exploration in Healthcare and Education
Jing Gao, MD, Associate Professor of Ultrasound, Judy Caldwell, DO, Assistant Professor of Primary Care, and David J. Park, DO, Vice President and Campus Dean of RVUCOM-SU, published research in the Journal of Ultrasound in Medicine. Their research, "Ultrasound Shear Wave Elastography to Assess Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment on the Iliocostalis Lumborum Muscle: A Feasibility Study," involved measuring the shear wave velocity of bilateral iliocostalis lumborum muscles in twenty patients with low back somatic dysfunction (and nine healthy subjects) to test the results of an osteopathic treatment. Students in the Military Medicine Enrichment Pathway made an impression at the Military Health Systems Research Symposium (MHSRS) Conference, which is the Department of Defense's premier scientific meeting. Each student gave an oral presentation and presented a poster. • Gabriel Betancourt-Perez, OMS III, presented "Identifying Error Rates in Suppressed Emotions During Training." This research assessed emotional suppression in medical students during a hyper-realistic mass-trauma simulation. • Joshua Calvano, OMS III, presented "Experience Matters: Monitoring Physiologic Changes of First Responders in Warm Zone Active Shooter Drills." The goal of was to evaluate the stress response and effectiveness of training of paramedics engaged in hyper-realistic drills. • Ryan Carney, OMS III, presented "Point of Care Collection and Transmission of Injury Data in a Mass Casualty Simulation - A Pilot Study." • Cameron Lindemann, OMS IV, presented, "Efficacy of Medical Operations and Layout Planning Onboard Non-Traditional U.S. Navy Vessels at High Seas." This research looks at how movements of personnel within an operating room are affected by the motion of the ship itself and smaller workspaces through
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the use of sensors placed in an operating room both on land and on a ship. • Holly Spitzer, OMS IV, presented, "Assessing Surgical Task Load and Performance: A Comparison of Simulation and Maritime Operation." This is an evaluation of the effectiveness of motion base simulators to replicate realistic deck motions of non-traditional naval vessels on high seas. It compares the effects of simulated and real deck motions on surgical performance and task load for surgical teams. • Sarah Szybist, OMS III, presented "Increasing Hardiness in Military Medical Personnel Through Immersion-Based Surgical Training," which analyzed how hyper-realistic simulation training improved performance under stress in military medical personnel (which improves military medical readiness).
Colorado Medicine, a local health care-focused publication created by the Colorado Medical Society, features a section in each issue for osteopathic medical students to submit written pieces and share their thoughts, as well. The reflections will be published bi-monthly. If you would like to submit an essay, contact Alexis Horst in the Writing Center at ahorst@rvu.edu for assistance with editing and submission guidelines. In the July/August Issue, Alexandra Koontz, OMS II, wrote the article, "The vaccine divide," in which she recounts a conversation with a friend that made her rethink her strong-armed approach to discussing vaccinations with those who may be uncertain in their opinions.
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Students Research Drones for Search and Rescue Missions While summiting Broad Peak in the Karakoram mountain range of northeastern Pakistan, a mountaineer was separated from his climbing partner. The search party tasked with retrieving him faced the challenge of traversing a vast and difficult terrain at perilously high altitudes. However, unlike most search and rescue missions, the search party deployed a commercial drone to assist in their efforts. The drone’s real-time imagery and global positioning system capabilities greatly reduced the time in which the mountaineer was found and decreased the number of challenges the search party would have otherwise faced. The Broad Peak rescue mission interested Jake McRae, OMS II, as he had been exploring the potential applications for unmanned aircraft systems in search and rescue missions. Based on interviews with the search party, drone pilot, and mountaineer, SD McRae co-authored "Using an Unmanned Aircraft System (Drone) to Conduct a Complex High-Altitude Search and Rescue Operation: A Case Study,” with Christopher Gay, OMS III; Brandon Nielsen, OMS III; Andrew Hunt, OMS III; and Andrew Nigh, MD, Assistant Professor of Specialty Medicine. Their research was published in the Journal of Wilderness and Environmental Medicine and presented at the 11th World Congress on Mountain Medicine International Conference in Kathmandu, Nepal. SD McRae was initially inspired to explore research into drone technology during his time with the Washington County Search and Rescue Team. After evaluating several missions and determining loss of life could have been prevented with the use of this technology, he developed and implemented a drone program that is now used in several capacities, including search and rescue, supply delivery, and restoration of radio communications. Currently, SD McRae has several ongoing research projects that will expand upon the applications of drone technology in emergency medical situations.
Global Medicine Outreach Club Awards Scholarships The Global Medical Outreach Club awarded four $300 scholarships to help fund medically-related trips. The recipients of the scholarships were second-year students Taylor Harp, Andrew Merelman, Steven Pilarski, and Kailey Stiles. SDs Pilarski and Merelman traveled to Zambia with the organization, African Impact, where they provided care and taught classes on public health topics, such as disease prevention. Using the scholarship money (along with money from their fundraiser, Collection for a Cause), SDs Harp and Stiles (pictured at right) traveled to El Paso, Texas to set up a more streamlined triaging program at refugee centers. The refugees they worked with include some of the most vulnerable members of society—children, single mothers, victims of domestic abuse, and other victims of persecution and trauma. They also conducted research on the most common illnesses to enter the U.S. through these centers. "Thank you to the RVU community for your contribution to this successful fundraiser that made a difference in many individuals' lives," said SD Stiles.
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Promotions and Appointments
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Maye Aquino-Turkington (RVUCOMSU) was promoted from Administrative Assistant in the Office of Student Affairs to Admissions Counselor in the Office of Admissions. In this role, she will represent RVU at on- and off-campus recruitment events and facilitate interview dates among other duties. She has been with RVU since 2017.
Rachel M.A. Linger, PhD (RVU-CO), was promoted from Assistant Professor of Pharmacology to Associate Professor of Pharmacology in the Department of Biomedical Sciences. She has been with RVU since 2013.
Andrew Ambler, DO (RVU-CO), was promoted from Assistant Professor of Osteopathic Principles and Practice (OPP) to Associate Professor of OPP. He has been with RVU since 2015.
Jill Pitcher, DO, FACOFP (RVU-CO), was promoted from Associate Professor of Family Medicine to Professor of Family Medicine in the Department of Primary Care Medicine. She has been with RVU since 2011.
David Irons, CPA (RVU-CO), was promoted from Director of Budgeting and Financial Analysis to Controller in the Department of Finance. He has been with RVU since 2015.
Joel Roberts, MD (RVU-CO), was promoted from Instructor to Assistant Professor of Physiology for the Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences (MSBS) program and the Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) program. He has been with RVU since 2017.
Whitney L. Johnson, MA (RVUCOMSU), was promoted from Admissions Counselor to Assistant Director in the Office of Admissions. In this role, she will play a more active role in the training and mentoring of her team and will provide assistance with statistical reporting. She has been with RVU since 2013 and full-time since 2016
Carol Wagner (RVUCOM-SU) was promoted from Administrative Assistant to Assistant Director for the Office of Testing. In this role, she will provide resources and support to students and faculty, while working with cuttingedge assessment technology to embrace the core value of innovation. She has been with RVU since 2018.
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Welcome to our New Faculty and Staff! Terry L. Hudgins, EdD, MA, MPHE Curriculum Manager for Clinical Education, Dept of Integrated Curriculum, RVU-CO Originally raised in Arizona, Dr. Hudgins moved around the country before settling down in Colorado, spending time in Texas, Maryland, Florida, and Utah. "I hope to put down roots in this beautiful state."
at TGDanzport, then as a Preschool Teacher in the Cherry Creek School District. She is excited to become part of the positive atmosphere that RVU creates for its community. In her free time, she enjoys teaching ballroom dance, attending Bible studies, reading a good book, and playing board games with her husband. A fun fact about her is that she can snap her fingers backwards. Welcome, Beth! Cheryl Johnston Executive Assistant to the Dean, Office of the Dean, RVU-CO
During her life, she has placed a high value on education, receiving the following degrees: a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Nutrition (Arizona State University); a Master of Arts in Bioethics (Midwestern University); a Master of Health Profession Education (Midwestern University); and a Doctor of Education degree in Instructional Technology and Distance Education (Nova Southeastern University). Currently, she is working on her Master of Science degree in Developmental Psychology at Walden University. Prior to RVU, she worked as Curriculum Technology Manager at Chamberlain University's Doctor of Nursing Program and, before that, as Director of Program Design for Laureate Education. "I am inspired to work in higher education as the impact we make in our students' lives will be expanded to their patients, families, and communities." Having moved to Colorado to be near her children and grandchildren, she is excited to be an active part of their lives. She is also learning to horseback ride English-style (which can involve differences in the saddle, the gait of the horse, type of sports, and even the type of horse itself). Welcome, Dr. Hudgins! Elizabeth "Beth" Irvin Administrative Assistant, Office of Testing, RVU-CO It's not often that an employer wants drama in the workplace. But when it comes to the Office of Testing, drama is exactly what they wanted from this theatre major. Originally from Lilburn, Georgia (a small town near Stone Mountain), Beth attended Western Carolina University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Theatre. That degree served her well as she worked as an Education Associate/Stage Manager for the Arkansas Repertory Theatre for four years. Upon moving to Colorado, she worked first as a Ballroom Dance Instructor
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Originally from the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, Cheryl lived in the Midwest her whole life until her husband's job brought them to Colorado. "I'm loving the weather and the accessibility to so many outdoor activities!" She has worked in a variety of industries including education, healthcare, and non-profit. But the common link with all of them are their values: "It is important to me that the organizations I work with have deep integrity, opportunities, and avenues for growth." It was those same values that made RVU appealing to Cheryl: "I respect and appreciate higher education and the people who make it happen." She hopes her contribution will help inspire people to pursue a career that ultimately brings good to those around them. In her free time, she enjoys traveling ("Brazil is my favorite country—but the coolest place I have [visited] was Istanbul"). She enjoys spending time with her adult children and her dogs. She also likes reading, hiking, biking, skiing, kayaking, and exploring. Interestingly, she has hosted fifteen exchange students from all over the world and keeps in touch (and even visits) with them after they have returned home. Welcome, Cheryl! Amy Maupin Administrative Assistant, Dept of Student Affairs, RVU-CO As a nearly lifelong resident of Colorado, Amy didn't have far to travel when she began working at RVU. Following high school, she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Christian Ministries. She has worked in education
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Welcome to our New Faculty and Staff! previously, most recently at Legend High School where she worked with the counseling department, as well as two assistant principals. Upon coming to RVU, she says, "I'm excited to be part of the organization; the people are very friendly and helpful!" Amy has been married for 24 years and has one son, who recently graduated from high school. She also has one dog, a Shih Tzu named Steve. Welcome, Amy! Jacqulyn Miller Administrative Assistant, Dept of Clinical Education, RVU-CO Jacqulyn is a fairly recent resident to Colorado, having moved to the state six years ago from Virginia. She attended Liberty University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in English and Communications. Most recently, she worked virtually as an executive assistant for the past six years. Prior to that, she worked in administration, event coordination, and project management. She initially joined the RVU team three months ago as a temporary employee and is happy to now be full-time with the University. "I have enjoyed getting to know the faculty, staff, and students that make up the RVU community." She describes herself as energized by building relationships and organizing details. "I look forward to utilizing my skill set and drive to serve a greater vision." When not at work, Jacqulyn enjoys spending time with her husband and their four children—usually at a sporting event, dance recital, or theater performance. "Our home is regularly filled with friends and family for dinner parties, s'mores around the fire pit, and life celebrations!" Welcome, Jacqulyn! Laura Reeves Administrative Assistant, Depts of Biomedical Sciences and Medical Humanities, RVU-SU
Prior to working at RVU, she served for Intermountain Healthcare as a Medical Staff Coordinator under the Medical Director of Dixie Regional Medical Center. "I love to support and serve others. I am happy if I can make someone else's job easier by helping them." She is happy to continue her supporting role at RVU, where she is inspired by the students' energy and their pursuit of becoming physicians. She enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren, camping, kayaking, four-wheeling, and just about everything outdoorsy. She also loves the beach and considers the Caribbean to be her favorite place that she has visited. Welcome, Laura! Robert Root Coordinator for HealthOne Neurology Residency Program, RVU-CO Robert was born in the Philippines and raised in Minnesota. He moved to Colorado two years ago: "I traded lakes for mountains and it's been a fair trade." He attended Minneapolis Community/Technical College, where he earned an Associates of Arts degree in Liberal Arts, and then University of Minnesota, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Youth Studies. During his undergrad years, he studied abroad in Northern Ireland, which he ranks as one of his best experiences. Robert has worked in inpatient psychiatry for the past nine years, working for Denver Health, Medical Center of Aurora, and UMN Health in Minneapolis. He came to RVU to pursue opportunities for personal and professional growth in a new field. He is inspired by working with individuals that are passionate about what they do and who they serve. When not working, Robert is very active and considers personal fitness to be very important to him. He works out daily and enjoys snowboarding, skateboarding, fishing, hiking, and laser tag (he is even an International Laser Tag champion!). He also has two cats, Zeu$ and Juno. A fun fact about Robert is that he is getting married this month! Welcome and congratulations, Robert!
Laura has spent most of her life in the St. George area, aside from some time living in Germany and a short stint in Death Valley, California as a child.
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Welcome to our New Faculty and Staff! Kelly J.D. Shroeder Security Officer, Dept of Public Safety and Security, RVU-SU Kelly lived in northern California until he moved his family (along with other family members) and horses to Toquerville, Utah in order to provide a different environment for their children. He is a father of four, ranging in ages from five to nineteen years old. He earned an Associates of Arts degree in Administration of Justice and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Administration. He also holds numerous instructor certificates from Low- and High-Speed Driving to Weapons Instructor. He worked as a police officer for 35 years, completing a variety of specialized patrol and training assignments. He came to RVU after retiring because he "had public service in my blood so working for RVU is a good fit." Welcome, Kelly! Kristin Shute, SHRM-CP, PHR-CA HR Partner, Dept of Human Resources, RVU-SU Another transplant from California to Utah, Kristin moved to the state following a vacation to Utah in March: "We wanted to move but hadn't decided where [until] we fell in love with the St. George area." She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a minor in Sociology of the Workplace from San Diego State University. She also has two professional certifications: SHRM Certified Professional and Professional in Human Resources – California. She began her career in human resources in 2000, working as an HR Representative for a local non-profit in San Diego. She then worked for Northrop Grumman as an HR Generalist, then Paychex as a Small Business HR Consultant, and finally as an HR Manager and Director for two technology companies. Upon coming to RVU, she is excited to be part of a close-knit community that contributes to the education of students. "I am honored to be the first onsite HR Partner at the RVU-SU campus and look forward to supporting the team and culture." When not working, Kristin loves spending time with her husband and their dog, going on hikes and exploring new
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areas. She also enjoys yoga, great food, and relaxing with a good book. Interestingly, she was a member of the Tall Flag team in high school and even won the championship for the southern California region--a first for her school. Welcome, Kristin! Dee Valdez, MA Coordinator of Student Records, Office of Student Affairs, RVU-CO Dee is a Denver native who studied in California for her undergraduate work. She attended Pepperdine University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcast Journalism. "I thought I'd stay in California but found I was too 'normal' so I came home." Back in Colorado, she attended University of Colorado Boulder, where she earned a Master of Arts in Public Relations (and even started the cable television station on campus). Dee has dabbled in a variety of projects, following her passions along the way. She wrote her first book, Git-Nit Right with Millennials: an Intimate Look at What Matters Most to the Biggest Generation in History, and is currently working on another, If You Want More Sex, Keep Your Pants On. She founded the Fairy Godmother Project in northern Colorado, gathering donated formalwear and setting up a boutique for thousands of teens in need. She also founded the National Gluten Free Food Bank Movement, launching more than twenty food banks with this specialized dietary restriction. She has also worked as a job search/new hire trainer, consultant, and dating coach. "I'm blessed to have a rich background of significant and meaningful work experiences." She is excited to join the "caring and fun team in Student Affairs" at RVU. She appreciates the University's focus of creating doctors that look at the whole person. Her work at RVU will allow her "to empower students to take responsibility for all paperwork required to become a DO." She loves helping them learn to manage such an important part of their journey. While she calls Denver her home, she now lives in rural Elbert, on top of the Palmer Divide. She has daughters who live in Denver with their husbands and a son who is a chemistry teacher in Shanghai, China. She recently married her best friend. A fun fact about Dee is that she is a champion Indian Leg Wrestler: "I beat thirteen men in a row at an Indian Rendezvous back in the day!" Welcome, Dee!
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Achieving New Heights Highlighting the Accomplishments of Our Faculty, Staff and Physicians in Training
Kodee Rasmussen, OMS II, received the Welch Scholars Grant from the American Osteopathic Foundation. Recipients are chosen because of their outstanding academic achievement, participation in extracurricular activities, and strong commitment toward osteopathic medicine.
Brian Schwartz, PhD, MLIS, Director of the Department of Library Services, presented at the Special Library Association Annual Conference alongside colleagues from the Gold Foundation and the Cleveland Clinic. His presentation, "Librarians: The key to powerful systematic reviews," was ranked in the top ten out of hundreds of presentations that spanned the conference. As a result, it will be included in the SLA's webinar series, "Best of SLA 2019" in November. In the July/August issue of St. George Health & Wellness, Mark Wardle, DO, Assistant Professor of Primary Care, contributed the article, "Healthy Summer Tips," covering such topics as safety, nutrition, sleep, and physical activities.
Thomas Coyle, OMS I, Kendra Downer, OMS I, and Nadira Matin, OMS I, received scholarships from Colorado Medical Society Education Foundation (CMS EF). CMS EF provides scholarships to incoming students based on their desire to practice in rural or underserved areas. "SDs Matin and Downer have had very unique experiences in urban underserved healthcare environments prior to medical school, which made them compelling candidates. SD Coyle has a very strong background in rural Emer-
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gency Medical Services and a desire to return to practice in a rural, underserved area," said David Ross, DO, FACEP, Director of the Rural and Wilderness Medicine Track and board member of CMS EF. The newly formed RVU Health Education and Research Foundation awarded the Diversity Scholarship to four students: Nuriya Gadiwalla, OMS II, Elizabeth Kuge, OMS II, Sebastian Ramos Sequel, OMS I, and Desira Vance, OMS I. In choosing the recipients, two students from each campus were selected. The Diversity Scholarship recipients not only possess the skills and tenacity to practice medicine, but have also demonstrated a commitment to medicine and involvement in their community. At the RVU-CO campus, faculty and staff were recognized at the Employee Awards Ceremony for their tireless work providing the best osteopathic medical education: • Michele Sobczyk, Executive Assistant to the President: Administrative Support Personnel Award for Excellence; • Teresa Moore, Coordinator for the Departments of Osteopathic Principles and Practices and Structural Medicine: Administrative Support Personnel Award for Excellence; • Brian Leary, Manager for the Department of Clinical Education: Staff Award for Excellence; • Joseph Stasio, DO, FACOFP, Chair and Professor for the Department of Primary Care: Faculty Innovator Award.
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From the Rocky Vista University Alumni Association Kerri Glasner, DO '14, was chosen to be Chief Gastrointestinal Fellow of her fellowship program at Houston Methodist. She was also selected by the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation to visit Mayo Clinic for a one-month visiting fellowship in inflammatory bowel disease. Additionally, she received a research grant to study the microbiome in patients with NAFLD and IBD. Charles Hutchinson, DO '15, recently graduated from Ranger school, having completed it with no recycles (something that is, by all accounts, extremely difficult!). He served as Chief Resident during his residency program before landing his "dream job" as Battalion Surgeon at 3/75.
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McKay Knowles, DO '17, (pictured on the right along with fellow resident Damon Deleon, MD) was given the Resident of the Year award by his psychiatry residency program at HealthOne in Lone Tree, Colorado. Oscar Noel, DO '13, recently accepted a position at the Center for Spine and Orthopedics in north Denver area of Colorado. He previously completed a sports medicine fellowship program at Cincinnati Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center/Mercy Health, where he worked under the head team physician for the Cincinnati Bengals. Upon returning home to Colorado, Dr. Noel said, "My new practice is a rotation site for RVUCOM students...I look forward to working with [them] and getting them excited about surgery and orthopedics!"
Sarah Jones Ketter, DO '16, accepted a position at Unity Point Family Medicine Waukee in Waukee, Iowa, practicing family medicine. During her final year of the Central Iowa Health System residency program, Dr. Jones Ketter received the 2019 Resident Teacher Award for her excellent teaching of medical students on rotation.
Mattew Seto, DO '12, was recently made partner at Gastroenterology of the Rockies, where he works as a gastroenterologist in the Denver metro area. Dr. Seto graduated last year from a Gastroenterology Fellowship program at Medical City Fort Worth, where he spent his final year as Chief Gastroenterology Fellow.
Christopher Ketter, DO '15, accepted a position at Unity Point Ankeny Prairie Trail Family Medicine in Ankeny, Iowa, where he will practice family and sports medicine. He recently graduated from a Sports Medicine Fellowship at Southern Illinois University.
Julia Tanguay, DO '16, has accepted a position as General Pediatrician at Akron Children's Hospital in the Emergency Department. She recently graduated from her pediatrics residency program at Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio. She has also taken on a national leadership role as Executive Coordinator of Resident Initiatives with the American Academy of Pediatrics Section on Pediatric Trainees. In this role, she is responsible for mentoring resident district representatives in advocacy, policy, and scholarly work.
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Campus Tidbits Dee Valdez, MA, Coordinator of Student Records, was recently married in a ceremony in Franktown, Colorado. She and her husband, Joe Pepper, are Colorado natives who grew up in southwest Denver. A handful of her RVU colleagues joined in the celebrations, including David Paltza, Registrar, who ran the sound board for her reception! While the outdoor wedding wound up being in 90-degree heat, everyone enjoyed the celebration. Congratulations, Dee and Joe!
Second-year students Autumn Dach, Jessica Harper, Trient Spiers, and Mikenzie Sturdevant participated in the Medical Wilderness Adventure Race (aka MedWAR Challenge) on a beach in South Lake Tahoe. They stopped at forty-two checkpoints to answer wilderness medicine trivia, treat a patient, or display wilderness skills. The course also consisted of five miles of kayaking, five miles of running, and fifteen miles of biking. In the end, they came in fourth place out of fourteen teams! Fellow classmate Brantley Bond, OMS II, participated on another team that came in second place.
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After eighteen years of living in the United States, Catherine Lewis Saenz, Communications Coordinator, took the Oath of Allegiance and became a United States citizen. The naturalization ceremony was the last step in a long process of becoming a citizen, which included submitting a lengthy application, passing history and language exams, and a formal interview. Minutes after becoming a citizen, she registered to vote with the League of Women Voters. Congratulations, Catherine!
Anthony LaPorta, MD, FACS, Director of the Office of Military Affairs, judged a simulation competition at the 46th Annual Rocky Mountain Trauma & Emergency Medicine Conference. There were four patient cases that students had to diagnose and treat: hypothermia, obstetrical trauma, auto accident with tension pneumothorax, and various fractures. The competition was judged based on teamwork, communication, and medical care. Throughout the competition, they used the Cut SuitTM and other simulators. Nazar Dubchak, OMS III (pictured at right), participated in the competition as one of the victims, while Deidre McGee, Coordinator for the Office of Military Affairs, used her skills as the moulage artist and scenario coordinator. RVUCOM-CO students have been volunteering at the Well Free Clinic for Homeless and Underserved, which provides medical services to those that need it most. It offers an amazing experience for students who are learning history taking, physical exams, presenting cases, and initiating treatment. "The community is so supportive of everyone... it is a great place to be for a few hours every other week," said Ross Tanick, OMS II. Students have also become involved in other ways, including serving on the medical student leadership board and conducting research. They are currently looking for physician volunteers. "The Well [reminds us] of the reason we decided to go into medicine in the first place," said Taylor Harp, OMS II. "It’s so much more than a clinic for the underserved; it’s a place to restore human dignity and an opportunity to give people the love and attention they deserve but may not always receive."
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Campus Tidbits Natalie Gould, OMS III, spent the month of July in the Philippines with the Work the World organization. "I was in a low-resource hospital and learned a lot about how doctors there adapt to take care of patients." During her time, she saw a lot of pathology and disease that isn't found in the U.S. and she was able to spend time with students from all over the world. "I think this type of experience is important as a U.S. medical student and I highly recommend everyone do an international rotation if possible."
RVUCOM graduates will now be able to train or practice in the United Kingdom without having their academic credentials individually assessed. Rather, they can sit for licensure based on their successful completion of graduate requirements from RVUCOM. "This is a huge step forward not only for our College, but the osteopathic profession in general," said Thomas N. Told, DO, FACOFP dist., Dean of RVUCOM. "We hope this development will open up new and varied international training opportunities for all our graduates. It is truly a great time to be an Osteopathic Physician." Read more about this historic decision at RVUBlog.com.
Read more about her externship in October at RVUBlog.com. RVU's Office of Simulation in Medicine and Surgery (SIMS) held a day of celebration during Healthcare Simulation Week in September. At the event, students, faculty and staff learned about upcoming projects and the role of simulation in healthcare education. Healthcare Simulation Week not only celebrated RVU’s accomplishments and innovative simulation program, but also the professionals around the world who use simulation to improve the safety, effectiveness, and efficiency of healthcare services every day. “[Simulation] provides deliberate practice with minimal risks and allows opportunity for real time feedback,” said Chasity Edwards, Assistant Director of the Office of SIMS. “It gives students exposure to some of the more uncommon events that they may not otherwise experience in their clinical externships.”
In June, RVUCOM-SU held its second annual Pre-Med Academy for high school seniors. The Pre-Med Academy is a unique opportunity for high school seniors to experience a mini medical school. Students attended lectures, labs, case studies, and workshops taught by faculty members, alongside medical students. Students experienced hands-on workshops including suturing, injections, ultrasound and osteopathic medicine. They also participated in SIM Labs, where they delivered a baby using the SIM Mom, learned about CPR, and practiced suturing on the Cut Suit®. At the end of the program, students took a final exam and were awarded a Pre-Med Academy completion certificate.
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Missing the usual content of the Vista View? Visit RVUBlog.com for regular updates on each program and campus, as well as University news and updates. We also welcome guest submissions and photos!
While you're in the RVU mood, swing by shop.rvu.edu to purchase some official merchandise. All purchases will benefit the RVU Alumni Association, funding networking events and scholarships for current medical students.
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