May 2020 Issue of RVU's Vista View: Finding a New Normal by Rocky Vista University

Award Winning Newsletter

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AACOM

VISTA VIEW

May 2020 Newsletter

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Finding a New Normal Page 4

Students · Providers · Parents Classmates · Educators Inside: Taking Ultrasound on the Road in Guatemala

Vista ViewPage 9

Diversity at RVU: A Growing Movement

Research Tracks Stress Levels of EMTs

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Page 18

Thank you to the healthcare providers at the Rocky vista health center!

Table of Contents 3

Building Knowledge Through SIMSlink

Student Doctors Inspire Future Medical Students

Finding a New Normal as Students, Educators, and Parents

Achieving New Heights

Developing a Relationship with the Incoming MSBS Class

A Display of RVU's Military Excellence at AMOPS

Patient Care Around the World: Kenya

Research and Grants

Taking Ultrasound on the Road in Guatemala

Research Tracks Stress Levels of EMTs During Mass Casualty Drill

Spreading the PA Message Through Service

Welcome to Our New Faculty and Staff

Feedback from Preceptors: the Good, the Bad...and the Very Good

From the RVU Alumni Association

Campus Tidbits

Diversity at RVU: a Growing Movement

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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Building Knowledge Through SIMSlink After competing in the American Medical Student Associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Sim Challenge in 2018, Danielle Glaze, OMS IV, was inspired to create what is now known as SIMSlink, a group of dedicated RVU students who organize hands-on, workshop-style experiences for fellow students. During a workshop, teams of students rotate through clinical education stations taught by SIMSlink student instructors. These interactive events use high-fidelity manikin simulators to achieve realistic patient interactions and are designed to complement the COM, PA, and MSBS curriculums. On February 22nd, SIMSlink hosted an all-day workshop on diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA); the simulated case was that of an 18-year-old male presenting to the emergency department with nausea, vomiting, and persistent abdominal pain. One of the goals of the workshop, created by SD Glaze and Clarke Snodgrass, OMS IV, was to help students understand the presentation and prioritization of treatment for a patient with DKA. Student instructors were organized into specialized, simulated stations including "Diagnostic Lab Interpretation," "Communication Simulation on Calling Consults," and "High Fidelity Clinical Simulation." During the workshop, students were also expected to recognize patient comfort as a goal of treatment. Click here to read more about the SIMSlink workshop and simulation initiatives at RVU on the blog!

Danielle Glaze: RVU's First Pre-Doctoral Simulation Fellow Danielle Glaze, OMS IV, was selected as the first Pre-Doctoral Simulation Fellow at RVU. She was chosen because of her commitment to simulation during her time at RVU, including her launch of the SimConnect/SIMSlink program. This new fellowship program will provide a substantial overview of the many aspects of simulation that are currently relevant in medical education. One student will be selected yearly for the program at each campus, though SD Glaze will serve as the only Fellow for this first year. The Fellow will demonstrate expertise in the areas of direct education, research, technology, mass casualty exercise planning and execution, and standardized patients. The directors of the fellowship are Dr. Susan Carter, Dr. David Ross, and Dr. Rebecca Ryznar.

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Finding a New Normal as Students, Educators, and Parents The first weeks following the closing of RVU’s campuses—the result of the coronavirus pandemic—were marked by a flurry of email updates, troubleshooting internet connections, the transition from hands-on learning environments to digital platforms, and, for some, setting up a new office or study space amidst the perpetual pandemonium of children and pets. Students and employees share their stories of how these changes have impacted them both professionally and personally.

RVUCOM Adapts to Remote Learning and Social Distancing Though the recent social distancing guidelines have confined us to our homes, RVU students are coming together for virtual study sessions and fun activities. The SGA has begun hosting online games, trivia nights and volunteer opportunities, such as a mask-making initiative (the masks will be donated to veterans' homes, long-term care facilities, and other places of need). "We are also in the process of putting in an online study hall," said Paul Yang, OMS II, SGA President at RVU-SU. At RVU-CO, the SGA is initiating an a letter-writing campaign: "We are [writing] to congratulate the Class of 2020 as part of their graduation celebration," said Zoe Roth, OMS II, SGA President at RVU-CO. The campaign will be an elective opportunity for students and is currently ongoing. Finally, the SGA is bring-

ing students together for Zoom gatherings and encouraging clubs to host virtual events. Adjusting to a remote-learning environment has proven to be a challenging transition, especially from a social standpoint. "It has been hard for me to adjust from a social setting to a more isolated one," said Nick Hora, OMS II. "I stay in touch with friends by using FaceTime and Zoom, which makes it much better." As for exploring the digital tools available to medical students, SD Hora says now is the time to fully learn how to use them. "I feel like [RVU] has done an excellent job of transferring over to online material, and I commend them for a having a plan and constantly keeping us posted."

"I miss the people of RVU! Teaching via Zoom is not my preferred curricular delivery method, but we are making it work. I am grateful for the opportunity to meet the animals and little humans that RVUers call family. I’m also grateful for less time driving in traffic, less air pollution, more frequent meditation, and more family time. These are welcome changes." Rachel Linger, PhD Associate Professor of Pharmacology

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A Third-Year student's perspective For third- and fourth-year students, the transition to remotelearning has been more difficult, due in part to the cancellation of the hands-on training they were receiving through externships and the upheaval of meticulously organized plans. In the early months of this year, Kristin Lipe, OMS III, was busy checking off the necessary items to successfully transition into her fourth year of medical school: scheduling boards, applying to programs, scheduling audition rotations, nailing down electives, incorporating gap weeks, looking for housing, and buying plane tickets—all with the goal of landing her dream residency, something she and her fellow classmates have worked hard for over many years. "It has been overwhelming having everything canceled or

pushed back," said SD Lipe. "It has tested our patience and pliability." Even while months, if not years, of planning are upended, upperclassmen are determined to help however they can. They view volunteerism during this time as both a calling and a learning experience. By learning and helping, "we could be somewhat prepared in the event that this were to happen again in our lifetimes," said SD Lipe. At the end of the day, she knows the Class of 2021 and all other students "will get through this hurdle the way we have already conquered life’s unique adversities—stronger, more malleable, and with more compassion."

PA Program: Online Training and Volunteer Opportunities As coronavirus cases increased worldwide and RVU made the decision to close both campuses, one of the first challenges for the PA program to overcome was that of transitioning a highly interactive, hands-on curriculum into an online learning format. Faculty and staff quickly implemented several creative solutions including virtual standardized patient encounters where faculty role-play the patient and utilizing breakout rooms to conduct small group learning in real time. Cathy Ruff, MS, PA-C, Director of the PA Program, holds a regular "Dialogue with the Director" to provide updates and check in with both classes.

Through it all, "students have been flexible and adaptable with the new demands and different learning formats," said Cathy. "[They] have created group chats and shared documents and learning strategies to support one another in keeping track of what is due and by when." Students have also stayed connected through fun games and happy hours online.

The pandemic has brought with it a series of adjustments across all aspects of life. Students, faculty, and staff are adjusting to being at home and finding time to study or work while juggling family needs and other responsibilities. Faculty and staff check in daily with one another to proFor students who were scheduled to start vide updates and implement new learning clinical rotations, they are now completing plans; students are supplementing their online training sessions in Advanced CarWoody the dog working with owner education through volunteer opportunidiovascular Life Support, Pediatric AdStephanie Bradford, PAS I ties, as well. "From setting up screening vanced Life Support, and Basic Life Support. Second-year PA students are also supplementing their facilities to making calls, the COVID-19 pandemic has only education with online learning opportunities after having strengthened student’s resolve and passion to be involved with healthcare and help as many patients as possible." been pulled from their clinical rotations.

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We Need to talk about our new coworkers by Kelli Petersen, MBA, Marketing Manager

Many of us began working from home on March 16th, 2020 (exactly 100 years ago today). For many parents, that was the same day our children began staying home, as well. "I can handle this," we thought optimistically on that first day. "I can work while taking care of a small child/children." By the next day, dread had settled into our stomachs. No, it turned out, we could not handle this. In the time since RVUers moved to the privacy of their homes, it has become clear who is able to embrace the change and who is struggling. On a Zoom call of several people, you will notice which ones are the parents: they’re the ones on mute out of courtesy for the others. They’re the ones who reply with distracted half-answers or offer screaming as their background ambiance. Yet it’s not just work (and our co-workers’ eardrums) that is being affected. Speaking for myself, I can only half-work and half-care for my one-year-old—so I’m not particularly effective at either for the moment. The usually enjoyable activity of family-time has been replaced with a frustrating helplessness at working to meet a deadline while keeping the kids mostly safe and minimally entertained. Along with RVU switching to a remote environment, so too have other schools. Three-year-old Daisy, daughter of Melissa Davidson, Office of Testing Coordinator, is unable to attend preschool which "has been so effective in helping her gain social skills and independence" as a child with special needs. Parents with older children have had to add homeschooling to their day-jobs, as well: "I'm an educator but I didn't expect to be teaching elementary, middle school, and adults all at the same time," says Darcy Solanyk, MS, PA-C, Associate Professor of PA Studies. "It's tested my resiliency and some

days I've failed. The good news is that we're all transitioning to a 'new norm' and people have shown one another a lot of grace which has made adapting feasible." In a pandemic, the regular 8-to-5 schedule flies out the window. Most parents cannot set aside childcare for a solid day of work. Instead, they must alternate care with their partners, wait for their partners to come home from work, or they may be single parents altogether. Many must work at night and over the weekend—yet the workday won't simply wait for them. Oftentimes, I answer emails and have meetings during the day while juggling the baby—then begin my actual work at 5pm. While feeding the baby in the middle of the night, I respond to emails; at times, coworkers reply immediately, clearly also putting in their work-hours at 2am. It is nonstop; it is exhausting. "I hope you are hanging in there. I am not—I am drowning," says Francina Towne, PhD, Program Director for MSBS. "All day, every day, I’m balancing two young kids and a day full of meetings and work. The only time to get work done is in the evenings, but by then, I’m wiped out. I am not a stay-at-home-parent but now I must be one—while still working a full-time job. There is a reason we do one or the other: it's not possible to do both!" Nevertheless, we can’t deny the positives. First, we are employed at a company that we love, doing jobs that we enjoy. At a time when millions (millions!) are now unemployed, this has not escaped our notice and we are extremely grateful for the stability. Second, we are able to spend extra time with our children which, frustrating as it may be at times, is something we also deeply treasure. "I get to see Daisy [more] and be a part of her day," says Melissa. "I can see how she is growing and learning. I love it." Perhaps the way to cope ultimately lies in embracing (and reminding ourselves of) that gratitude. "I am really thankful to have a job that I love," continues Dr. Towne. "I'm trying to enjoy the small moments with my sweet kiddos, the entertaining interruptions of my Zoom calls, and the quick access to endless cups of homemade coffee."

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Developing a Relationship with the Incoming MSBS Class by Courtney Arndt, Administrative Assistant for MSBS Program

As most of us are feeling lonely and anxious, waiting for the pandemic to subside, our incoming students are also feeling the same anxieties—so we wanted to reach out to them. We knew they had questions: Will we start the school year in person or online? Should we move as soon as we can or stay at home with family? What will RVU even look like by the fall? To show our RVU Core Values of collegiality and compassion, the MSBS team has gathered together to create ways of interrupting those looping worries. We created a facesheet that includes a short story about each incoming student and, with their permission, their email address so students can begin corresponding. The information provided can also help students begin to recognize similar and exciting things about each other, allowing them to feel connected and close even though they may be miles apart. We have also started monthly "get-to-know-each-other" Zoom meetings with incoming students for both campuses, alumni, faculty, and staff to ask and answer questions, offer advice on how to thrive in the program, share their favorite ice cream flavors, and get to know each other. While not the same as being in class, the MSBS Program is working hard to utilize the technology in order to make current and future students feel recognized and accepted. "[We] truly miss our day-to-day, in-person interactions with our students," said Francina Towne, PhD, Director of the MSBS Program. "But the students are graciously diving in and embracing our virtual reality."

RVU Invests in Professional Development...and Other EVP Updates At the recommendation of the EVP team, the Human Resources Department has provided employees with LinkedIn Learning. With over 15,000+ courses, the on-demand learning platform teaches employees new skills in order to advance in their careers. The aim of this new initiative is to build a professional development culture at RVU, in which employees and managers work together to enhance and support the employees’ learning opportunities. This initiative has become particularly timely during the pandemic, as employees—particularly those whose jobs are not as conducive to working remotely—are encouraged to use this time to develop various skills. "While this initiative is remote-enabled, development is further enhanced through on-the-job learning by taking on projects and assignments," said Jerry Armstrong, Vice President of Human Resources. "We encourage [employees] to learn new skills to enhance the contributions within your current position as you think about and consider future career options." On the communications side, the Marketing Department has launched the Around the RVU Campfire newsletter, which showcases top social media posts, recent posts on the RVU Blog, and any media coverage. To improve communications between the two campuses, Julie K. Rosenthal, MS, Vice President of Enrollment Management and External Relations, has launched the Unite & Ignite Newsletter, which highlights projects across both campuses, collaborations between departments, and employee accomplishments and work anniversaries.

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Patient Care Around the World: Kenya Gabriel Bensaad-Johnson, OMS III, had traveled with a medical team of students, faculty, and volunteers for the better part of four hours to reach patients in a remote Kenyan village. While the village was located hours from the nearest town, it was the flooded roads that continued to prolong their journey. They had patients waiting for them and they had to make every second on the road count. After hours of driving and building makeshift roads out of rocks and planks of wood, the team finally reached a section so flooded that the road had disappeared into a deep lake. The patients themselves would have to walk to reach them. The team set up tents as close to the village as possible, and they soon had a queue of over twenty patients waiting to be seen. Each patient encounter started with an interview and an exam. A translator assisted SD Bensaad-Johnson as he spoke to a woman about issues she had with her eye, which was clearly deviated and not functioning correctly. She also spoke vaguely of chest pain. For her eye, SD Bensaad-Johnson ultimately diagnosed her with temporal arteritis. The visit had taken up a good bit of time, and there were other patients waiting to be seen by the handful of supervising physicians and medical students. But the cause of the patientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s chest discomfort had not yet been determined. A supervising physician nudged SD Bensaad-Johnson to complete the exam and move on to the next patient, but something was bothering him... This article continues at RVUBlog.com....click here to read it. Photos by Gabriel Bensaad-Johnson, Nick Chapman, Dominick Ruybal, Nazar Dubchak, and Jennifer Goodfred

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Taking Ultrasound on the Road in Guatemala Written by Andrew Wojtanowski, OMS IV

Every year, students in the Global Medicine Track travel to medically underserved countries to treat patients with a variety of undiagnosed illnesses. Most recently, Jing Gao, MD, Associate Professor of Ultrasound, led a group of fourth-year students, including myself, to serve patients in several towns surrounding Lake Atitlan in Guatemala. Over the course of several weeks, we worked together to see 131 patients with a handheld ultrasound device. One of the most valuable aspects of our work in the ultrasound unit was the element of education. RVU provides students an important and substantial foundation into the world of ultrasound but naturally has limits in terms of varying patient populations (elderly, pregnant, actually sick, etc.) and sensitive body regions. With the appropriate guidance from Dr. Gao, [we] had the empowering opportunity to translate our anatomical knowledge through the "lens" of ultrasound to explore, assess, and diagnose new regions/disease states that were novel to us through this medium. During our stay in Guatemala, I worked with other students to host an Ultrasound Symposium, detailing certain cases that were partially managed with this technology. Together, we discussed patient profiles, the use and nuance of ultrasound in each, and the overall management that followed. Having done so better allowed us students to review and assess our treatment of patients, as well as field concerns, questions, and suggestions from our various attending physicians. By the end of the trip, I saw tremendous growth in the skill and confidence from all the students participating in the ultrasound unit. Even those who started with the most basic understanding of ultrasound grew to a point of thoughtful and dynamic sonographic application by the end of the trip. I am so proud to have worked with such excellent, budding physicians along the way and truly look forward to the future collaboration with every single one.

Save the Date for the

Denver Osteopathic Foundation Golf Tournament Monday, August 24 at the Golf Club at Bear Dance www.dofound.org

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Spreading the PA Message Through Service Have you ever thought about diving into the Aurora Reservoir in the middle of winter? Students in the Physician Assistant program did just that as part of the Aurora Polar Plunge & 5K, an annual fundraiser for the Special Olympics Colorado. The PrAirie Dog Team not only ran in the 5K and plunged into the reservoir’s icy waters, they also raised over $700 for the organization! Earlier in the year, students also partnered with the Colorado Area Health Education Center to provide free health screenings at the National Western Stock Show. The screenings included blood pressure, pulse oximetry, blood glucose, vision and balance screenings, and BMI calculations. Students also provided adult health education to rural and underserved populations. Most recently, students honed their skills in suturing and ultrasound during workshops at CAPA's 2020 CME Winter Conference. The conference also featured a Student Challenge Bowl, in which students competed in teams of three to test their knowledge and skills, with the RVU team making it to the final round.

MSFC Presents: The Vagina Monologues 2020 by Amanda Snidach, OMS II, Audrey Jaeger, OMS III, and Olivia Roehling, OMS IV

In February 2020, Medical Students For Choice members from RVU and University of Colorado put on their third annual performance of The Vagina Monologues. The cast was comprised of first-year through fourth-year medical students, RVU faculty, and a local obstetrician-gynecologist. These women performed three shows at Blush and Blu and The Mercury Café, donating 100% of the proceeds to SafeHouse Denver, a shelter for battered women, children, and men.

• $6,576 raised from three shows in 2020! • Over 30 women involved from RVU, CU, and private practice! • More than 300 tickets sold!

The Vagina Monologues is a production created by Eve Ensler as she asked thousands of women to share their stories regarding their vaginas, literally and metaphorically. These stories ranged from those experienced in childhood to those in old age and everything in between, including the happy, the sad, the violent, and the euphoric. Today, The Vagina Monologues is performed worldwide and raises money for V-Day, which is a global movement to stop violence against women. SafeHouse Denver provided representatives such as Racheal Sluvek who spoke about the importance and significance of our production. One in three women and one in four men will be in an intimate abuse relationship at some point in their life. SafeHouse Denver receives over 11,000 calls yearly from those looking for help, but only 5,000 of those in need are able to access help through the shelter. With the proceeds Medical Students For Choice raised through The Vagina Monologues, many more will be able to have a safe roof over their head when faced with potentially dangerous situations. We want to thank RVU, CU, and all those who attended for their support. We were honored to perform for you!

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Feedback from Preceptors: the Good, the Bad...and the Very Good For their third and fourth years of medical school, student doctors enter the clinical portion of their education. In this learning environment, they rotate between different clinics and specialties, applying their medical knowledge to real patients. Of course, students see patients under the supervision of a preceptor, a licensed physician who helps them hone their skills. During a series of receptions to honor their service, preceptors enthusiastically shared an abundance of stories about RVU students: the moments in which they surpassed expectations during a case, their affinity for research, their ease when interacting with patients, and their dedication to the practice of medicine. "These kids can’t wait to learn," said Dr. Oscar Noel, an RVUCOM graduate from Class of 2012 who is now a preceptor for the school. "When I'm shorthanded on a case, I've had students stay regardless of their requirements. Their willingness to stick through shows a lot of heart." In one story a preceptor shared, an RVU student potentially saved her colleague’s life. While shadowing another physician in the clinic, the student noticed that he was exhibiting signs of amnesia during their patient encounters. The student continued to take detailed notes on all the patients they saw for the day, while keeping an eye on the physician, who was worsening as the day progressed. Finally, the student approached the preceptor with concern that the other physician had had a stroke earlier in the day (which turned out to be the case). In the preceptor's words, the student "carried the clinic by themselves and probably saved [my partner’s] life."

Tips from Preceptors

When asked how RVU students could improve on externships, preceptors offered the following: • Learn how to organize your history of present illness and be concise in your presentation; it's a story—tell it • Turn off "Dr. Google" • Even if it's not your specialty or area of interest, stay enthusiastic about it • Develop memorization skills and stop relying on a notepad • Brush up on gastroenterology and your ability to give differentials in it • Read about particular cases on your own, without being told; preceptors will eventually expect their students to show initiative • You don’t have to know everything. With hard work and teamwork, you can find the diagnosis or issue at hand • It’s okay to make mistakes and acknowledge them; it is an opportunity to learn • Be humble in your approach to the practice of medicine • The way you behave outside of the hospital is just as important as the way you behave in the hospital • Identify what you want out of your externship and what your weaknesses are; this way you and your preceptor can tailor the experience • Be willing to make and order a differential diagnosis • Become familiar with the business side of medicine • Reconnect with your basic sciences and physiology

Students were also praised for their ability to inspire others through curiosity and their ease with speaking to patients and keeping others active and knowledgeable. "They fix my computer," one preceptor added excitedly. As for the preceptors themselves, they were recognized for creating a safe environment for students to learn in, being innovative in their approach to teaching, and for helping students excel in patient encounters and in the practice of medicine.

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Diversity at RVU: A Growing Movement After nearly a year of planning, the next step in a growing movement at RVU to support diversity on campus came to fruition with the Racial Equity Institute’s (REI) Groundwater Diversity Training, an event hosted by RVU’s Diversity Committee. The training, presented by Deena Hayes-Greene and Monica F. Walker of REI, brought together students, faculty and staff to learn about racial inequity in the United States and its impact on medical education and the healthcare profession. For Elizabeth Kuge, OMS II, the training’s focus on systemic racism was an important reminder that inherent biases against race still exist. "We need to be better in recognizing [those] biases and confront them, not only for our future patients, but also for ourselves and everyone we encounter," she said. "[The training] strengthened my conviction to fight against systemic racism and support minorities of all backgrounds." The idea to hold a foundational training for the RVU community was first pitched in meetings between a group of diverse medical students and the RVU administration. These students shared their concerns about the lack of diversity in both the student population and staff and the lack of education on biases and prejudices. Mindful of RVU as a national leader in healthcare education, students saw a dire need to incorporate racial equity into their medical training in anticipation of serving diverse and underrepresented populations in the future, and for RVU to support students of color while on campus. Shortly after the training, the Diversity Committee saw even more interest in increasing diversity at RVU including inquiries from students and staff about future planned events and how to take the movement to the next level. "The success...of this movement is due to the action of both the student body and administration," said Hannah Chong, OMS II, member of the Diversity Committee. "It is my hope that this partnership will continue for years to come in order to enact lasting change." Other initiatives in the past year were the Student National Medical Association’s diversity campaigns, such as Pride Month and Black History Month. The Trauma-Informed Care Program, spearheaded by Kelsey Boghean, OMS III, hosted a program that focused on providing effective healthcare for patients of the LGBTQ+ community, victims of sexual assault, and those who have experienced adverse childhood events. Graph courtesy of Racial Equity Institute

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Student Doctors Inspire Future Medical Students While the next generation of healthcare providers train at RVU, they’re also inspiring future medical students by hosting events on campus: Mini Med School Day and a Medical School Immersion Field Trip (MC2).

Mini Med School: Inspired by his time in Chicago with Teach for America, Joseph Nathanson, OMS II, helped spearhead the Mini Med School Day program at RVU with classmate Jessica McArthur, OMS II (also a Teach for America graduate). Mini Med School Day—which will continue with the Class of 2023 in the fall—featured a suture lab (using a frozen banana), ultrasound lab, an airway management and emergency triage activity, and one-on-one chats between the student doctors and middle and high school students about their journey to and experiences in medical school. "[Mini Med School Day] has brought me my most fun and rewarding moments in my time at medical school," said SD Nathanson. "What is better than watching angsty teens who are too cool for school light up with amazement the first time they find a beating heart on an ultrasound or hold a cadaver’s brain?" Over fifty student doctors assisted with the program and close to one hundred middle and high school students participated. As for the program’s influence on him, SD Nathanson said "[It] has allowed me to expand on why I want to work in underserved communities in my medical career."

MC2: The Student National Medical Association partnered with the Medical Ca-

reer Collaborative, a program through Children’s Hospital of Colorado and Denver Health, to host sixty underrepresented high school students (who want to pursue careers in healthcare) on campus in February.

At RVU, student doctors and physician assistant students engaged the high schoolers in several labs and workshops: anatomy, suturing, ultrasound and EKG, airway management, osteopathic principles and practice, and a special panel and mentoring opportunity. Over 90 COM and PA students volunteered at the event, which featured the theme of "Diversifying Medicine." At the end of the day, the high schoolers celebrated with a White Coat Ceremony, where they received embroidered lab coats to keep for future laboratory courses.

SDs Nathanson and McArthur presented their research on the program, "Underserved Youth Medical Outreach Program" at 2019's OMED and COSGP Symposium

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Achieving New Heights Highlighting the Accomplishments of Our Faculty, Staff and Physicians in Training

Kelli Petersen, Marketing Manager, graduated from Regis University with a Master of Business Administration degree, with a focus on Marketing and with honors. She began attending the program part-time in 2016, taking time off last year to have a baby.

Ben Wilde, DO, Vice Chair of the Dept. of Primary Care Medicine, was awarded the Degree of Fellow by the American Academy of Family Physicians. This honor recognizes family physicians who have distinguished themselves through service to family medicine, advancement of health care in the community, and professional development through medical education and research. This determination is measured in these six areas: LifeLong Learning, Practice Quality and Improvement, Volunteer Teaching, Public Service, Publishing and Research, and Service to the Specialty. Two students have been elected to national student leadership positions of the American Medical Women's Association (AMWA): • Rachel McCann, OMS II, was elected as TreasurerElect; she has served as president of the local AMWA branch and contributed to the planning of the annual AMWA Region 8 Conference at RVU. • Haley Shumway, OMS III, was elected as Secretary; she is currently the AMWA Region 8 Director and helped establish AMWA and the Women in Medicine Club at RVU.

The Marketing Department received two Excellence in Communications Awards from AACOM: 1st Place in the Advertising category for the launch of the Digital Health Track and 2nd Place in the Newsletter category for the Vista View! The EIC program, which receives over 100 entries every year from colleges of osteopathic medicine, recognizes the important role that communications plays in advancing osteopathic medical education and the profession.

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 January/February Issue, Angela DiCosola, OMS IV, wrote the article, "Making time to be present with patients," in which she recounts how technology, paperwork, and calls with the insurance companies soon took up more time than the patients themselves—and what she did to change this. In the March/April Issue, Jeffrey Beach, OMS III, wrote the article, "Practicing mindfulness to process tragedy," about how the impact of a planned fetal demise delivery led to a discovery about mindfulness.

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Achieving New Heights Highlighting the Accomplishments of Our Faculty, Staff and Physicians in Training

Join us in congratulating the following students and clubs, which received awards from the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians (ACOFP):

A display of RVU's military excellence at amops

Gathered in Las Vegas for the annual conference of the Association of Military Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons (AMOPS), RVU students, faculty, and staff presented posters, held demonstrations, were elected to national positions, and received various awards. "We had more RVU students present research and attend the conference than ever before!" said Mackenzie Berry, OMS II, President of the RVUCOM Chapter of SAMOPS. "The conference [allowed] us to pursue further leadership opportunities, learn through lectures and simulations, and network with fellow HPSP students and military physicians." • Clinton E. Adams, DO, FACHE, President and CEO, received the 2020 AMOPS Robert Lutz, DO, Founders Award. Dr. Adams was a founder of the organization and has been "an untiring champion of AMOPS and of military osteopathic physicians and medical students for over 40 years". The award is AMOPS' most prestigious award. • Mackenzie Berry, OMS II, was elected to serve as Education Chair on the National SAMOPS Executive Board. • Cameron Lindemann, OMS IV, received the Senior Student Osteopathic Officer of the Year Award. • Benjamin Memmott, OMS III, was one of four medical students chosen to present their research during a Research Symposium's lunch-and-learn session. His research, "Quantitative Ultrasound Imaging to Assess Skeletal Muscles in Adults with Multiple Sclerosis," received second place. • Susan Roberts, OMS III, was elected to serve as Secretary on the National SAMOPS Executive Board. • The RVUCOM SAMOPS chapter received the Chapter of the Year Award.

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Most Improved Chapter Award: RVUCOM-SU

President's Award: RVUCOM-SU

Osteopathic Family Medicine Student Awards: Joanna Durfee, OMS III Kathryn Forneris, OMS II Ross Tanick, OMS II

Research and Grants Furthering the Pursuit of Innovation and Exploration in Healthcare and Education

An important resource for students, faculty and staff, the Office of Research provides support and guidance for research activities, such as statistical consulting, an intramural grant program, and a searchable database of extramural grant opportunities. Andrew Merelman, OMS II, presented at The Big Sick, a conference about critical care and emergency medicine. His talk was on an airway management procedure called ketamineonly breathing intubation, which involves the use of ketamine as a sole agent to facilitate intubation in an awake patient. "It went very well [and] was well-received. The conference was excellent, with many extremely knowledgeable speakers and informative lectures at in incredible venue."

Sarah Szybist, OMS III, Renato Rapada, DO '19, and Anthony LaPorta, MD, FACS, Course Director for the Military Medicine Program, published research in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons. The research, "Effect of Immersion Trauma Training on Resiliency and Hardiness in Military Medical Personnel," describes a study of military medical students who took the Hardiness Resilience Gauge to assess changes in stress before and after trauma training. W. Tyler Crawley, OMS III, and Cyprien Jungels, OMS III, presented research at the annual COSGP Winter Research Symposium. Their research, "Îą-Tocopheryl Succinate Sensitizes the Human Breast Cancer Cells to Doxorubicin and Reduces Doxorubicin Induced Cardiotoxicity," discusses the cardiotoxicity in breast cancer chemotherapy. SDs Crawley and Jungels were also chosen as the overall winners of the conference!

Haseeb Rahat, OMS II, and Jacob Stuppy, OMS III, gave presentations at American Federation of Medical Research's Western Medical Research Conference. SD Rahat presented, "Metabolomic Characterization of Hepatic Steatosis in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome;" SD Stuppy presented, "Increased de Novo Lipogenesis in Hepatics Steatosis Regardless of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Status." "We do biomedical research in the endocrinology lab at Childrens Hospital with our mentor Dr. Melanie Cree-Green," says SD Rahat. Jing Gao, MD, Associate Professor of Ultrasound, and Rebecca Ryznar, PhD, Assistant Professor of Molecular Biology, were the recipients of the RVU Faculty Research Recognition Award, which was given by the IRB and Research Advisory Committee. The award was created to recognize faculty members who advance the University's mission of supporting research through education, student mentorship, and collaboration. "Drs. Gao and Ryznar have conducted more research that involved mentoring a multitude of students than any other faculty this year," said Laura Dement, MA ED, Compliance Specialist. Elias Leavitt, OMS III, and William Suddarth, OMS II, competed at the International Trauma Life Support (ITLS) Research Forum. SD Leavitt received first place for "Hyper Realistic Immersion Training Directly Improves Resilience in Medical Personnel"; SD Suddarth received second place for "Vital Sign Monitoring and Demographic Comparison of Paramedics in Warm Zone Active Shooter Drills." (Read more on Page 18.)

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Research and Grants Furthering the Pursuit of Innovation and Exploration in Healthcare and Education

Regan Stiegmann, DO '14, and Cole Zanetti, Co-Founders of the Digital Health Track, published a chapter on Digital Health in Medical Education in the book, Handbook of Research on Efficacy of Training Programs and Systems in Medical Education, published in December of 2019.

Lon Van Winkle, PhD, Professor of Medical Humanities, and Rebecca Ryznar, PhD, Assistant Professor of Molecular Biology, published "Onecarbon metabolism regulates embryonic stem cell fate through epigenetic DNA and histone modifications: implications for transgenerational metabolic disorders in adults" in Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology. They found that 1-carbon metabolism challenges contribute to development of metabolic syndrome and related abnormalities in adults, resulting in altered epigenetic DNA and histone modifications in ES progenitor cells and the tissues and organs to which they develop.

Students present, compete at ROME conference RVU-CO students recently participated in the Regional Osteopathic Medical Education poster competition in Vail: • Arthur Armijo, OMS I: "Delta County, CO: Health Needs Assessment" - 3rd Place • Kelsey Boghean, OMS III: "Case Study: Thigh Mass Persisting 50 Years in Rural Kenya" • Logan Leavitt, OMS III: "Treatment of a Femoral Bone Marrow Lesion with Intraosseous Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate" • W. Tyler Crawley, OMS III: "Diabetic Cardiomyopathy: Understanding the Independent Relationship Between Diabetes and Heart Failure" 1st Place

• W. Tyler Crawley, OMS III and Cyprien Jungels, OMS III: "The Ushaped effect of uric acid: A review of how both high and low levels of uric acid can affect the human body" • Connor Roggy, OMS III, Alexandra Koontz, OMS III: "Occurrence of a unilateral sternohumeral muscular anomaly: A cadaveric case report" 2nd Place • Colby McWhorter, OMS III, Tyson Hamilton, OMS III, Gabriel Betancourt, OMS III: "Evaluating the Change in Medical Students’ Perceived Preparedness for Clinical Rotations"

Students also tested their ability to present concisely (on a topic that was both interesting to students and relevant to physicians) in a segment called Lightning Rounds, organized by Dr. David Ross. "[The presentations] were well-done and the response from the audience was very positive," he reported. The following students presented during Lightning Rounds: • Christine Wahlmeier, OMS II, Ashley Trumpie, OMS II, Madison Brown, OMS I: "The Psychiatric Advanced Directive in Colorado" • SD Boghean: "Trauma-Informed Care in Medicine" • Austen Anderson, OMS III: "Utilization of Traditional vs Contemporary Medicine in Global Indigenous Populations"

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• Benjamin Horn, OMS III: "Understanding the Role of Shame and Guilt in End-of-Life Decision Making" • Colby Pearson, OMS III, and Tesia Kolodziejczyk, OMS III: "Androgenetic Alopecia" • Corinna Ruf, OMS III: "Secondary Stroke Prevention" • Hayden Collins, OMS III: "The Corona Virus Epidemic"

Research and Grants Furthering the Pursuit of Innovation and Exploration in Healthcare and Education

Research Tracks Stress levels of EMTs during Mass Casualty Drill A collaboration between students, faculty, and the South Metro Fire Rescue (SMFR) in Colorado has resulted in research published in the Journal of Emergency Medical Services. The authors included Joshua Calvano, OMS III, Ryan Henschell, OMS III, Rebecca Ryznar, PhD, William Suddarth, OMS II, Alex Knippenberg, OMS II, Anthony LaPorta, MD, FACS, Ryan Shelton, MPS, NREMT-P and Andrew Glen, PhD. The research, "Training Effectiveness for Point of Injury Medical Care – Vital Sign Monitoring and Demographic Comparisons of Paramedics in Warm Zone Active Shooter Drills," was designed to assess changes in the physiological responses as paramedics underwent hyper-realistic training sessions in preparation for mass casualty scenarios. These scenarios—organized by SMFR—took place last fall in the Denver metro area, with the cooperation of RVU and several community organizations and law enforcement agencies. During the scenarios, measurements of heart rate and arterial blood pressure were used to provide information about the stress response and adaptation to the training over time. The main aim of the study was to determine stress response and previous conditioning associated with mass-casualty training sessions and to look for possible correlations between demographic data of paramedics and their associated physiological response to the training. Check out RVUBlog.com for more information about this research later in May!

Welcome to our New Faculty and Staff! Randal Anderson, MD Assistant Professor of Radiology, Office of SIMS, RVU-SU Not exactly an Iowa native, but living there with his family for 20 years has made Dr. Anderson near enough. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry from Brigham Young University, a Doctor of Medicine degree from University of Iowa College of Medicine, with a Diagnostic Radiology Residency at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics and a Nuclear Radiology Fellowship at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri. He enjoys (maybe even a little too much) trying to solve complex mental puzzles, which is why he was drawn

to radiology as a field. Dr. Anderson has 16 years as a practicing radiologist, including experience with teleradiology and radiology in both the academic and private practice arenas. He also served as a staff radiologist for Veterans Affairs. It was an easy decision to join the RVU family, as Dr. Anderson "loves working in a collaborative environment where the knowledge and talents of many people in a variety of roles synergistically combine to yield meaningful outcomes." Moving from the Midwest, Dr. Anderson brought along his wife and children. Interestingly, one of his sons is adopted from Seoul, South Korea while his adopted daughter has Maori and Samoan blood ("[we] look forward to meeting her relatives at a family reunion in the South Pacific"). His oldest

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Welcome to our New Faculty and Staff! two children are adopted from the Midwest. The Anderson family enjoys outdoor activities like kayaking and off-roading, as well as the simpler ones like neighborhood walks and mountain hikes. He also has an incredible "fish story": as a child, he went fishing with just a twig, string, and a Dorito chip and managed to catch a small catfish! Annyeonghaseyo, Dr. Anderson! Brooks W. Beal, DO, MS Assistant Professor, Dept. of Primary Care, RVU-SU; Veterans Home Provider at Southern Utah Veterans Home Dr. Beal grew up in Northern California. He attended Utah Valley University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and meeting his future wife. During this time, he also organized medical missions to Guatemala. Later, he received a Master of Science degree in Medical Health Science, followed by his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree at Touro University Nevada College of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed a family medicine residency as Chief Resident at Northeast Regional Medical Center in Kirksville, Missouri. Dr. Beal has always loved teaching and, as a resident, he started an academic track. He also became a ACLS instructor for the school and trained the second-year medical students. Following graduation, he joined the faculty at A.T. Still University as Assistant Professor and core faculty at the Family Medicine Residency Program. Eventually, he and his wife decided to move to Southern Utah to be closer to family and to continue his passion for teaching and clinical medicine. He believed that his goals and ambitions as a physician matched with RVU and is excited to be part of "this amazing school." Dr. Beal enjoys fishing, hunting, sports, traveling, and spending time with his wife and four children. Welcome, Dr. Beal! Thomas H. Bigham, DO, MA Assistant Professor of Family Medicine, Dept. of Primary Care, RVU-SU Coming from a farming family, Dr. Bigham graduated first from Purdue University with a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Master of Arts degree, then taught undergraduate biology. Dr. Bigham then attended University of New England College of Osteo-

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pathic Medicine as a National Health Service Corp. scholarship recipient, receiving a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree. He graduated as Chief Resident from the University of Utah Family Medicine Residency Program. Dr. Bigham practiced in rural Arizona, where he received training and experience as a rural medical examiner. For three weeks, he also staffed a bare-bones clinic down in the Grand Canyon, where he visited with the Havasupai tribe and experienced the breathtaking waterfalls. Dr. Bigham enjoys spending time with his wife, five children, and two grandchildren. Reading biographies, restoring and maintaining vintage cars and dabbling in HAM radios are some of his more favored hobbies. He is excited to be back in a formal teaching and learning environment and enjoys the enthusiasm and company of his colleagues here at RUV. One of his more embarrassing moments was getting a warning flag thrown on him at a high school football game...as the team physician. Welcome, Dr. Bigham! Michele (Mischa) Coleman, DO Assistant Professor of OPP, Dept. of OPP, RVU-SU Dr. Coleman joins us with a Bachelor of Science in Math/Computer Science from University of California Los Angeles. For a time, she worked as a massage therapist. At the age of 42, she enrolled at Kansas City University, receiving her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree. She completed residency, a hospitalist/geriatric fellowship, and a Neuromusculoskeletal Medicine (NMM+1) fellowship in New York. Originally from Florida where her father was a rocket engineer, Dr. Coleman had moved to Washington following her fellowships. At Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences, Dr. Coleman had a combination position of interim Department Chair and Assistant Professor of OPP, all while also having her own private practice. It seems there are few places Dr. Coleman hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been: 49 of 50 states (sorry, North Dakota!), Mexico, Canada, Australia (the Great Barrier Reef was a favorite destination), New Zealand, Belgium, and the Netherlands. She enjoys taking photos and hiking the national parks, with a toss-up between Yellowstone and Olympic being her all-time favorites (though Zion and Bryce are also high on that list). She also has a talent for tatting lace and creating bobbin lace. Now

Welcome to our New Faculty and Staff! here at RVU, Dr. Coleman looks forward to becoming part of the family and having lots of adventures. Welkom, Dr. Coleman! Elizabeth (Liz) Dahlberg Clinical Education Liaison, Dept. of Clinical Education, RVU-SU Liz has a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications Studies with an emphasis in Healthcare Administration from Dixie State University. She has been in the healthcare field for five years: she was a private scrub for the Orthopedic Trauma Team at Dixie Regional Medical Center and has also worked at Intermountain LDS Hospital and the Ogden Clinic in sports medicine and hand and upper extremity surgery. Remembering her first time in an operating room as an orderly, Liz had watched a laparoscopic appendectomy and thought how it was the most amazing thing she’d ever seen. It had empowered her and inspired a wonder of medicine and the power to heal others. With her position with RVU, Liz wants to "find meaningful rotations for students so that they can feel empowered in their education and careers." She is from Arizona but moved to Southern Utah with her family and, even though they have since moved away, she now resides in Northern Utah. With too many hobbies to choose from, Liz does enjoy a handful of outdoor activities such as skiing, wakeboarding and hiking, which explains her "almost religious experience" at the Redwood National Park. When Liz is not out on the greens holding a nine-iron, she can be found with a controller in her hands, playing Call of Duty Modern Warfare or Apex Legends. Welcome, Liz! Garth Gillespie Administrative Assistant to Biomedical Sciences and Medical Humanities, Dept. of Biomedical Sciences, RVU-SU Garth comes to us from Chicago, having escaped the Windy City for the easier winters of Southern Utah. Before arriving at RVU, he was at Apple. For over a decade, he was a Direct Dispatch Admin.

Rising Sun—Japan. When not busy with work, he enjoys gardening and learning about the native plants of Utah, as well as photography and trying new foods and restaurants. Now a part of the RVU family, Garth is excited for the diverse culture. With his new position, it inspires him to connect with the students, faculty, and staff. Kon’nichiwa, Garth! Caitlin Hotzel Library Assistant, Department of Library Services, RVU-CO Like many others, Caitlin was drawn to the west by the mountains and promise of copious sunshine. Before coming to Colorado, Caitlin grew up in a small college town in Kansas, where she completed her Bachelor of Arts degree in English (with a minor in Entrepreneurship) from the University of Kansas, then relocated to London to attend culinary school at Le Cordon Bleu. She is currently pursuing her Master of Science degree in Library Science from Emporia State University. As a professional chef for many years, Caitlin worked in nearly every type of restaurant setting, from the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art to traditional fine dining. Prior to her time spent cooking professionally, she worked for the University of Kansas library system, logged time in public libraries, and worked in constituent services for the U.S. House of Representatives. What has stood out to her at RVU is how passionate everyone is about what they are doing: "It’s not hard to feel inspired in your own pursuits." Caitlin herself is passionate about lifelong learning and ease of access to information is a vital component of that. "Working in libraries allows me to combine my interests and skills to serve the community in a unique way." When she’s not at work, Caitlin is hiking in nature, hunting for Denver’s best taqueria, experimenting with propagating house plants, or binge-listening to true-crime podcasts. Though she’s been fortunate to travel pretty extensively (26 countries and counting!), if she had to pick her favorite trip, it would be to the western coast of Norway. Velkommen, Caitlin!

Of the places he’s visited, Garth’s favorite is the Land of the

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Welcome to our New Faculty and Staff! Kristen Hunter Clinical Rotations Coordinator, Physician Assistant Program, RVU-CO A Colorado native (thank you, Swedish Medical Center!), Kristen has completed several general education courses through Arapahoe Community College, with a certification in Medical Transcription. Kristen has a total of 20 years of experience in administrative/management in healthcare operations. Prior to RVU, she was a Medical Staff Credentialer for Centura Health and HCA Corp. With this knowledge, Kristen likes that she can be a resource for students when they need someone and is able to watch them grow through their educational experience. Kristen came to RVU because of the school's great reputation in the community. "People are friendly and I can see that education is important to the staff, as well as the students." She also thinks it’s a great environment with supportive connections to help students succeed. When you see her around, ask Kristen about her time spent living in Germany. Guten tag, Kristen! Kyle LaValley, MBA Director of the Center for Medical Education Excellence (CMEE) Kyle returns to RVU after working for DaVita for the past year and a half. During his time at DaVita, Kyle was the Senior Analyst for Clinical Operations where he facilitated several pilots testing the integration of value-based healthcare into dialysis clinics. Prior to leaving RVU, Kyle was the Administrator for Rocky Mountain OPTI where he supported affiliated residency programs in numerous ways. In his new role as the Director of RVU’s Center for Medical Education Excellence (formerly Rocky Mountain OPTI), he will continue working to connect resources at RVU with residency training programs, while also focusing on new program development in the Mountain West region. Originally from Colorado Springs, Colorado, Kyle earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and a Master of Business Administration degree from Colorado State University - Pueblo. He previously worked in graduate medical education at Parkview Medical Center. Outside of

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work Kyle loves spending time with family, cooking, playing golf and learning to play guitar. We're so happy to have you back, Kyle! Kären Robinson, MS, LPC Mental Health and Wellness Counselor, Dept. of Student Affairs, RVU-CO This Mississippi State University alumna (go Dawgs!) received a Master of Science degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Christian Brothers University. Originally from Tennessee, she only recently moved to Colorado and is enjoying the climate and the people. Kären (that's pronounced "car-in") has several years of experience in various higher education positions, including as a mental health counselor at her alma mater. She also has experience with inpatient co-occurring disorders alcohol and drug treatment. She considers it "an honor to walk alongside and hold space for those I help, even when the path is difficult." Now being at RVU, Kären is excited to get to know the students and support them on their path to becoming medical professionals. "It is so important that helpers incorporate self-care and healthy psychological skills into their lives and practice." Cliché or not, Kären loves Paris and how magical walking the streets can be. When not helping take care of others, she enjoys spending time with her spouse and their dog Arya. They go on walks, watch movies, and play board games together. And next Christmas Day, don’t forget to wish Kären a Happy Birthday! Bonjour, Kären! Daneka Souberbielle, MS Academic and Career Advisor, Dept. of Student Affairs, RVU-SU Daneka is originally from Michigan. About fifteen years ago, she planned a visit to St. George and never left! She has a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Michigan in Psychology and a Master of Science degree in Sociology from Brigham Young University. She has spent most of her career working on increasing ac-

Welcome to our New Faculty and Staff! cess to higher education for first-generation, low-income and/or minority students. Her previous position was Associate Dean of Student Inclusion, where she oversaw programming and services for international, LGBTQ+, veteran, and female students. She earned a Commitment to Diversity award, as well as a Community Engaged Staff Member award.

Cole Zanetti, DO, MPH Co-Director of the Digital Health Track; Dept. of Tracks and Special Programs, RVU-CO

Daneka is excited to be part of RVU: "I believe [it's] a unique place where rigor, service, innovation, and leadership meet and I hope to be able to add to that! [Advising] provides the opportunity for direct service to the students...helping the students identify goals and make plans. Ultimately, watching them reach their goals and transform into professionals is one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve ever had!"

Dr. Zanetti grew up in the small town of Otisville, New York. He earned a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from the University of North Texas Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and a Master of Public Health degree from Dartmouth Institute of Health Policy and Clinical Practice. He trained at New Hampshire Dartmouth Family Medicine residency and in Leadership Preventive Medicine at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center.

A favorite place Daneka has visited was an ancient ruin in Tamtoc, San Luis Potosi, Mexico. "It was a brand-new dig site in the middle of lush jungle and it was fascinating to see the discoveries the archaeologists were uncovering." When she’s not at work Daneka enjoys the art of doing nothing. She also enjoys teaching English to new immigrants.

Dr. Zanetti has worked with many organizations, such as the American Association of Family Medicine, Iora Primary Care, Dartmouth Center for Health Care Delivery Science, and New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services to develop healthcare-based systems or solve complex problems.

Welcome, Daneka!

Dr. Zanetti currently serves as Primary Care Section Chief for Veteran Affairs of Eastern Colorado and as a facilitator for the Positive Deviance Initiative. He is very excited to be a part of RVU: "Healthcare is changing rapidly with new expectations to utilize technology and software to help others. Artificial intelligence, predictive analytics, remote monitoring, telemedicine, and the ethics of these pursuits are critical for how medicine will be practiced in the future." On cofounding the Digital Health Track, he says, "I'm very excited to be a part of the first effort in the country to enable [medical students] to be change-makers moving forward."

R. Levi Sundermeyer, PhD Program Director, HealthOne/Sky Ridge Family Medicine Residency, RVU-CO Dr. Sundermeyer attended medical school at the University of Kansas, then residency at St. Louis University Belleville Family Medicine Residency, followed by an Obstetric Fellowship at Family Medicine Spokane. He trained with the Air Force and was on active duty for 10 years. Since then, Dr. Sundermeyer has been a flight surgeon with an F-16 squadron in Fort Worth in the Air Force Reserves for the past eight years. He was attracted to RVU because of the high priority placed on primary care, especially family medicine and training in point-of-care ultrasound. Married for 23 years to his wife Marlise, they have four children who he loves spending time with. When not working, Dr. Sundermeyer enjoys playing board games, camping, and sports (home run for baseball!) with his family. Welcome, Dr. Sundermeyer!

Dr. Zanetti recently received the James M. Lally, DO, Emerging Leader Award from the American Osteopathic Foundation. He also received the Primary Care Innovation Award from American College of Physicians In his free time, Dr. Zanetti enjoys traveling (Hanoi, Vietnam and Rovinj, Croatia are among his favorite locations), hiking, playing basketball and baseball, reading non-fiction, spending time with friends and family, and occasionally binge-watching Netflix. Interestingly, Dr. Zanetti is terrified of heights—"I can't even ride a Ferris wheel without freaking out"—but rock-climbs weekly and has even gone skydiving. Welcome, Dr. Zanetti!

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RVU’s Growth Prompts Organizational Changes In February, RVU leadership announced upcoming changes in the organizational structure of the University’s academic and administrative departments. These changes are a result of RVU’s growth on both campuses—new programs, tracks, and partnerships—and the need for additional leadership to take RVU’s mission of "Achieving New Heights in Medical Education" to the next level. • The Office of the Dean will be expanded to include the new position of Associate Dean of Preclinical Education. Many of the academic departments will begin reporting to this position. Additionally, the Clinical Anatomy and Osteopathic Principles and Practice Departments have been combined into one department; the Department of Pathology will now be under the Department of Biomedical Sciences. • Beginning in August, the roles of Dean and Vice President of Academic Affairs (currently held by Thomas N. Told, DO, FACOP dist.) will separate. The VPAA position will transition to the role of Provost, a position that was recommended by the COM Reorganization Task Force to "increase academic leadership at RVU and at the national level." In early April, the newly formed Provost Search Committee to launch RVU’s search for a Provost. Once the Provost position has been filled, Dr. Told will transition to his new roles as Founding Dean Emeritus and Professor of Family Medicine on the Southern Utah Campus. A search will then commence for a new Dean of the COM. • The Department of Security and Safety will now report to Gary Pippin, Director of the Department of Facilities and Grounds. Similarly, the Office of Student Affairs and the Office of the Registrar will now report to Julie K. Rosenthal, Vice President of Enrollment Management and External Affairs. With this change, RVU hopes to further enhance RVU’s connection to its students, from their first steps as applicants leading up to alumni relations. In turn, she will soon report to the new Provost.

Promotions and Appointments Hannah Golesh (RVU-CO) was promoted from Print Center Administrator to Print Center Supervisor. In this position, Hannah directs the operation of the Print Center on the CO Campus and the student printers on both campuses, as well as planning print requests, training personnel, record keeping, inventory, and maintaining the production machines. Hannah has been with RVU since 2013. Jacob Hanberg (RVU-SU) was promoted from Financial Aid Coordinator to Financial Aid Counselor, in the Department of Student Financial Services. In this position, he will continue to answer financial aid questions, collect necessary documents, and collect payments. Jacob has been with RVU since 2018. Valerie Jones (RVU-SU) changed positions, from Library Coordinator to Administrative Assistant of the Department of Clinical Anatomy and Osteopathic Principles & Practice (CA-OPP). Valerie has been with RVU since 2018.

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Trisha Jordan (RVU-SU) was promoted from Accounting Clerk to Staff Accountant, in the Department of Finance. In this position, she will continue to enter all A/P items and cash receipts for the Utah campus, as well as perform month-close reconciliations and other support tasks. Trisha has been with RVU since 2017. Darcy Solanyk, MS, PA-C, (RVU-CO) was promoted to Associate Program Director of the PA Program. In this position, she will assist the Program Director with operational leadership program and serve as a mentor and resource to faculty in accreditation, teaching, curriculum design, assessment and scholarly activities. She will also continue to serve as Associate Professor of PA Studies. Darcy has been with RVU since 2017. Lynne Stephensen, MEd, (RVU-SU) was promoted from Library Clerk to Library Coordinator. In this position, she provides research and writing support to students, helps plan and execute Library events, and assists with collection development Lynne has been with RVU since 2017.

From the Rocky Vista University Alumni Association

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Students, faculty and fellow alumni, The past few months have been a challenge as humanity has been put to the test in a way that is similar to moments of infamy such as the World Wars, the Vietnam War, and the Spanish Flu of 1918. It is in these moments that all inhabitants of earth will have surreal firsthand accounts of having lived during months of quarantine, market instability, and fear. It is my hope that when you are reading this, we are on the way out from all of this uncertainty and fear. As I wrote to you this time last year, I was preparing for my upcoming trip to lead the Osteopathic Oath for the 2019 Commencement Ceremony. I am reminded of the words: "I will be mindful always of my great responsibility to preserve the health and the life of my patients...keeping in mind always nature’s laws and the body’s inherent capacity for recovery." We have been given a great responsibility which comes with great rewards—but, at times, greater risks. Our oath has been most assuredly tested lately, but I have no doubt that every one of you selflessly carried on to make sure those who are less fortunate or sick were cared for in the best way possible. I offer my utmost humble thanks and praise to all the first responders, physicians, nurses, technologists, and other ancillary staff who were in the highest of risks on the frontlines of the hospital wards and emergency departments. The burden to carry society through this crisis was firmly placed on the backs of everyone in the field of medicine and you have all elevated the field of medicine and fought for humanity with sweat, blood, and tears. I have never been more proud of the decision that I made long ago to be a part of this great profession. Though many events have been overshadowed by the COVID-19 Pandemic, I want to congratulate the Class of 2020 on their recent match into residency programs across the country. The transition between student doctor to members of excellent hospital teams can be fraught with self-doubt and anxiety. I want to assure the Class of 2020 that RVU has thoroughly prepared you during your four years as a medical student. You are as prepared, if not better prepared, than your osteopathic and allopathic peers. The best advice that I can offer you now is to not take any moment or loved one for granted. Use the final months of medical school to virtually connect with loved ones or to read that one book that you just couldn’t find the time for during school. You will know enough for and learn even more through your residency. Now is the time to slow down and unwind before the whirlwind starts! I thank you for your time and wish you the best in your pursuit to learn from yesterdays, live every day as a new day, and never give up hope for each tomorrow. As always, I look forward to hearing about all of the wonderful things you have all accomplished before I have the pleasure to address you next.

Christopher Mutter, DO ‘14 Alumni Association President

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From the Rocky Vista University Alumni Association Rachel Griffith, DO '16, and Erin Hoffman, DO '16, have accepted positions with Banner Health in Sterling, Colorado. They chose the rural clinic in order to practice both family medicine and obstetrics: "You get to really care for patients from...cradle to grave, their whole lives. We would not be able to if we were in [an urban setting]," said Dr. Hoffman. Dr. Griffith and Dr. Hoffman completed residencies at Via Christi Regional Medical Center in Wichita, Kansas. Nicholas Frane, DO '16, and Jonathon Lenz, DO '15, co-authored a paper which was published in the January issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association - Surgery. The paper, "Association of Disposable Perioperative Jackets with Surgical Site Infections in a Large Multicenter Health Care Organization," describes whether the use of perioperative disposable jackets is associated with the incidence of surgical site infections. Amber Koon, DO '14, and Garrett Koon, DO '15, have accepted positions with Methodist Physician Group. Amber has joined Methodist Surgical Services, as a general surgeon; Garrett has joined Methodist Pediatrics as a pediatrician. Both offices are located in Henderson, Kentucky. Renato Rapada, DO '19 (along with Sarah Szybist, OMS III, and Anthony LaPorta, MD, FACS, Course Director for the Military Medicine Program), published research in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons. The research, "Effect of Immersion Trauma Training on Resiliency and Hardiness in

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A LU M N I A SSO C I AT ION Military Medical Personnel," describes a study of military medical students who took the Hardiness Resilience Gauge to assess changes in stress before and after trauma training. Regan Stiegmann, DO '14, published a chapter on Digital Health in the book, Handbook of Research on Efficacy of Training Programs and Systems in Medical Education, published in December of 2019. Dr. Stiegmann is the Co-Founder of the RVU Digital Health Track, the nation's first longitudinal medical school training in digital health. Alyssa Tran, DO '16, has opened the Colorado Center for Public Safety Psychiatry, a clinic where emergency responders can access affordable psychiatric treatment from a physician who understands their culture. "Emergency responders are on the front lines of chaos and trauma, yet their emotional wellbeing continues to suffer because of shame and stigma." Dr. Tran will be completing her psychiatric residency program at University of Colorado this year, then entering a Forensic Psychiatry Fellowship in July. copublicsafetypsychiatry.com Laurie Bezjian Wallace, DO '16, and Patrick Wallace, DO '16, have published research in the American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. The research, titled "Effectiveness of Ultrasound Guided Platelet-Rich Plasma Injections in Relieving Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction," analyzes patients with low back pain after being injected with platelet-rich plasma into the sacroiliac joint under ultrasound guidance, finding that the injections were effective at reducing disability and pain. Additionally, Drs. Bezjian Wallace and Wallace were two of the four residents selected to present their research, "A Case of Thyrotoxicosis Periodic Paralysis in an Asian American Active Duty Male," at the 2020 AMOPS Research Symposium's lunch-and-learn session.

From the Rocky Vista University Alumni Association

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SPotlight on Alumni: Kabeer Shah, DO ‘14 Dr. Shah cultivated a love for pathology early on in his medical school career. Upon graduating from RVU, he joined the Mayo Clinic as a resident and subsequently completed a Dermatopathology Fellowship. He is now a staff member at the clinic and his research can be found in several publications, including the British Journal of Dermatology. Currently, he is researching the diagnostic and theragnostic classification of melanocytic nevi and tumors with molecularbased assays and the implementation of artificial intelligence-based applications in digital pathology. As a Dermatopathologist/Surgical Pathologist, one of the most rewarding aspects of Dr. Shah’s job has been his interactions with patients. During his transfusion medicine/apheresis training, Dr. Shah befriended a patient who was around his own age. Despite the diagnosis of a terminal illness, his patient had a positive outlook on life: "He just wouldn’t give up, constantly pushing the limits," Dr. Shah remembers. "He ultimately died of his disease, but I think of him, his positive attitude in the face of adversity, and his family regularly." During his medical career, Dr. Shah has realized that doubt is a fundamental part of medicine, and this is something he wants others to embrace as well. "[Recognize] this and practice so you can continue to learn, grow, and provide the best possible care for each patient." Dr. Shah is also an adjunct faculty member at the University of Wisconsin Madison and a Clinical Instructor in Pathology at the Mayo Clinic, where he continues to share his love of pathology with students. His advice for students, including those at RVU, is to "take the time and learn as much as you can about the basics. It may be painstaking now, but it will pay dividends throughout training and life beyond." Since graduating from RVU, Dr. Shah has been featured in the The Pathologist Magazine’s "2016 Power List" and the American Society of Clinical Pathology’s "40 Under 40." He has also received the Mentorship Award from the American Society of Dermatopathology and 1st Place at the International Society of Dermatopathology’s World Cup Oral Presentation in both 2016 and 2018.

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Campus Tidbits Members of SAMOPS in Colorado participated in Wreaths Across America, an annual event in which volunteers place wreaths upon the graves of veterans to honor them during the holidays. The military students traveled to Fort Logan National Cemetery in Denver.

Alison Hart, PAS II, helped to deliver the first baby of the decade for Torrington, Wyoming, during her rotation. From The Torrington Telegram, "After a long two week wait, Goshen County finally saw the arrival of this year’s New Year’s Baby. Caleb and Rachel Shaner of Lusk welcomed Easton Riley Shaner to the family at 2 p.m. on Jan. 14, weighing 7 pounds 4 ounces. and measuring 19 1/2 inches long. He was delivered by Dr. Bonnie Randolph, with the assistance of Ali Hart, a medical student from Rocky Vista University in Parker, Colo."

Thomas Coyle, OMS I, and his wife Alicia welcomed a baby girl on February 11th. Claire Louise Bernadette Coyle weighed 6lb 8oz and was 20 inches long. Congratulations, SD Coyle, Alicia, and big sister Josephine!

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In November, eleven RVU students attended CU’s Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Fair at their Anschutz Medical Campus. Set up were hands-on stations demonstrating ultrasound-guided injections, spasticity diagnosis/treatment, adaptive sports, amputee care/prosthetics, and wheelchair use. Lucas Zornoza, OMS II ran a station with Dr. Kristin Putnam, discussing and demonstrating an osteopathic approach to low back pain, which garnered considerable interest from the CU students.

The Campus Safety and Security Department has been trained and certified to carry OC Pepper Gel to better help protect the campus community and for Officer safety. The primary goal of the department is to maintain and safe and secure learning environment here on campus. We ask that if you see something, you say something. Together, as a community we can achieve greatness and obtain a consistently safe environment for ourselves and future generations.

Campus Tidbits Listen to a Podcast

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• Students provided Hepatitis A and Influenza vaccinations to the homeless—a population at great risk of contracting these illnesses—in Lakewood, Colorado. The event was funded by the Colorado Children's Immunization Coalition (CCIC) as part of a larger vaccination series throughout the Denver Metro area. Jennifer Badolato, Director of Practice Management for Rocky Vista Health Center, and David Ross, DO, FACEP, Director of Rural and Wilderness Medicine Track, helped organize the student outreach event (and provided medical supervision). Students included first-year students Garrett Florey, Jenn Wu, Dellvin Nguonly, and Florence Yip. Second-year students included Hannah Chong, Parker Lewis, Candice Song, and Josh Bridge.

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Catch up on your reading

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The AOA: In a recent article, "COVID-19: What you need to know" (February 26, 2020), Dr. Cole Zanetti was interviewed about the novel coronavirus, its symptoms, how it's transmitted, and other frequently asked questions. https://osteopathic.org/2020/02/26/covid-19-what-you-need-to-know/ ChooseDO: Phillip Bennett, OMS IV, wrote an article for ChooseDO.org, a popular website created by AACOM for pre-med students. The article, "5 Essentials for Preparing for Medical School, According to a DO Student," offers information for incoming students such as figuring out one's learning style, why the people and location of a school can make a big difference, and how the amount of effort put into studying is more impactful than which school one attends.

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The Osteopod: "One unique way that I'm helping pre-med students learn more about DO medical school is through my podcast," says Phillip Bennett, OMS IV. "I interview fellow med students from different DO schools about their experiences. You can find it at https://anchor.fm/theosteopod. Primary Care Podcast: The newest episode features an interview with Beatriz Linn, MD, who trains students and residents at Rocky Vista Health Center at the Colorado campus. Dr. Linn discussed her incredible personal journey to get to where she is today: she grew up in the Andes Mountains of Colombia and went to medical school in Medellín before doing her internship year deep in the Colombian jungle in the late 1980s during a very dangerous time in the drug trade. She talks about maintaining her positive attitude while almost getting kidnapped by guerrillas and many other obstacles. We finish up by talking about her experience in the US doing her residency in internal medicine here in Denver and also talk about how she practices preventive medicine. Find it on any podcast platform! The Skeptics' Guide to Emergency Medicine: Andrew Merelman, OMS II, was interviewed on this podcast as a critical care paramedic and medical student. He discusses a case involving an elderly man presenting with sepsis from pneumonia. Visit thesgem.com episode notes for more information related to the case. Feeling Super: The Misinterpretation of Mental Illness in Pop Culture: This podcast is hosted by Jenifer A. Fisher, MLIS, Instructor of Medical Humanities. Along with her co-host, Nikki, Jen discusses different social issues and mental illnesses, then analyzes how movies, games, and television often get their subjects wrong.

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The Vista View is created and published by the Rocky Vista University Marketing Department. Kristen Kaiser Catherine Lewis Saenz

Gina Marzulla Kelli Petersen

Julie K. Rosenthal

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May 2020 Issue of RVU's Vista View: Finding a New Normal

Articles inside

Campus Tidbits

Alumni Association

Welcome to our New Faculty and Staff!

Spotlight on Alumni: Kabeer Shah, DO '14

Research and Grants

Achieving New Heights

Student Doctors Inspires Future Medical Students

Diversity at RVU: A Growing Movement

Feedback from Preceptors: the Good, the Bad...and the Very Good

MSFC Presents: The Vagina Monologues 2020

Spreading the PA Message Through Serivce

Taking Ultrasound on the Road in Guatemala

Patient Care Around the World: Kenya

Feedback from Preceptors: the Good, the Bad...and the Very Good

Finding a New Normal as Students, Educators, and Parents