Summer/Fall 2006
AUC markets to prospective students. Alumni and guests were able to see how a new generation of medical students views the University. A dedicated supporter for the school, Kaplan was instrumental in making the weekend event a huge success. “It was a great gathering of past alumni with strong emotional overtones. [Alumni Weekend 2006] was really a new starting point for AUC,” deemed Kaplan. Alumni were also given the chance to meet the new Dean of Basic Medical Sciences Bernard “Buz” Salafsky, Ph.D. Salafsky recently retired as Dean of the University of Illinois, College of Medicine at Rockford in June of 2004, after some 22 years in that position. In his “School Vision” presentation, Salafsky outlined things to come for AUC. He spoke about the hiring of quality faculty and exposure to public Dr. Richard Watkins ('01) and his guest, health through coursework and community projDr. Tracy Lemonovich ects. He also unveiled new projects such as inte-
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grating the basic science curriculum with decompression, the development of inter-island consortia and enhancing the school’s international image. Aside from future plans for the University, a big part of the evening focused on the Alumni Association. Rizwana Fareeduddin, M.D. (’01), secretary for the association, explained its role and some of the new programs available. Just over two years old, the Alumni Association aims to inform graduates on how they can continue to support the school through donations and a variety of new projects, such as the Regional Ambassador Program and a brand new mentoring program, which is still in the developmental phase. “I never thought an AUC alumni reunion event would be a reality, but it was amazing to see the hard work and efforts of so many people finally come to fruition. I think this is a very exciting time for the Alumni Association and it’s only the beginning,” said Fareeduddin. Drs. Prashant Patel The weekend also featured a special pin pres('83), Sadhana Patel entation, where all returning graduates received ('84), Kenneth Redlin an alumni pin demonstrating their status as an ('83) and Lily Liu ('84). AUC alumnus, as well as their dedication toward upholding the principles of the institution. In a great show of solidarity, alumni rose from their seats and attached the pins together. To honor outstanding achievements by AUC graduates, three doctors were recognized for their successes professionally and within their communities. U.S. Clinical Dean Bruce Kaplan, D.O., and Chief Operating Officer Yife Tien presented Faith Dillard, M.D., with the Distinguished Service Award, and Stephen Nelson, M.A., M.D., F.C.A.P. (’85) and Shukri David, M.D., F.A.C.C. (’83) took home the Professional Achievement Award. Every year AUC graduates are making huge strides within the medical field and community. The award ceremony is an official recognition of these accomplishments, and a tradition that the University plans to continue in the future. It’s a great reflection upon the institution and the faculty when AUC graduates demon-
Drs. Angelina Bhandari ('94) and Vijay Pallekonda ('95)
Dr. Sean Nikravan ('99)
Dr. Frederick Parker ('81) wins the complimentary spa package at the Sheraton Bal Harbour.