2026 GEBS Orientation Itinerary

WELCOME Graduate Education in Biomedical Sciences (GEBS) Entering Class of 2026

Danita Eatman-Daniels, PhD Associate Dean of Graduate Studies

Dear Students, It is my sincere pleasure to welcome you to the Graduate Education in Biomedical Sciences (GEBS) program. On behalf of our faculty, staff, and leadership team, I want to congratulate you on taking this important step toward your future in biomedical research and discovery.

Whether you are joining us for a two-year master’s degree or beginning the longer journey toward your PhD, you are now part of a program that values academic excellence, scientific curiosity, and student success. You have been selected because of your talent, potential, and commitment to advancing knowledge in the biomedical sciences. We are excited to support you as you grow as a scholar, a researcher, and a professional.

Graduate school is a challenging and transformative experience. It will stretch your thinking, sharpen your skills, and help you discover your unique voice as a scientist. Along the way, you may face moments of uncertainty— and that’s okay. Please know that you are not expected to do this alone. Our program is designed to ensure you have access to mentorship, academic support, professional development opportunities, and a network of individuals who are genuinely invested in your success.

In the months and years ahead, you will engage in rigorous coursework, hands-on research, and scientific writing and communication. You’ll work with accomplished faculty, contribute to meaningful discoveries, and prepare for impactful careers in research, medicine, policy, education, and beyond. I encourage you to take full advantage of the resources available to you and to ask for support when needed—we are here for you.

We are proud to welcome you to the GEBS community and look forward to witnessing all you will accomplish during your time with us. This is the beginning of an exciting and rewarding journey, and we are honored to walk alongside you.

With warmest regards,

Danita Eatman-Daniels, PhD

GEBS New Student Orientation | Class of 2026

Jason DeBruyne, PhD

Director, PhD Program in Biomedical Sciences Professor, Neuroscience Institute and Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology

Welcome to Morehouse School of Medicine.

Your journey in life has inspired you to become a scientist and guided you to Morehouse School of Medicine - On behalf of all our scientists, I’d like to welcome you to Morehouse School of Medicine - we are excited that you are joining our PhD Program in Biomedical Sciences!

Our program is designed to meet you where you are, build your knowledge and skill- base, and teach you how to implement your knowledge and skills to make new discoveries. Will go from “we don’t know what we don’t know” to “this is what we don’t know, and here is how we’re going to discover the answers”, leading in the creation and advancement of health equity to achieve health justice along the way!

MSM’s world-class research enterprise will afford you opportunities to develop and implement cutting-edge technologies and challenge you to push the boundaries and discover what could not or has not been discovered before. At the end, when you graduate, you will be equipped with all the skills, acumen, and resume’ that will enable you to meet new opportunities and challenges head-on, with confidence and success.

This PhD journey is not an easy one by any means – and it is one that must be made by YOU. But we at MSM are here to guide you all along the way and provide you with all the tools and resources you need to achieve the highest level of success. All our faculty mentors here have been through this journey that you are now embarking on and are determined to leverage their wisdom to help you navigate your path. As Director of the PhD Program, I will be your point person to help you navigate any challenges along the way. In addition, we have a tremendous staff and deep pool of academic, health, mental health support resources to help you along the way. One of our key strengths at MSM is we are truly a family – everyone is here to help you, support you, and drive you to be best scientist that you can be!

Welcome to the MSM family!!

Jason DeBruyne, PhD

GEBS New Student Orientation | Class of 2026

Karen Russell Randall, PhD

Director, Master of Science in Biomedical Research Professor, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology

Graduate Students, It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to Morehouse School of Medicine, where our vision is to lead in the creation and advancement of health equity to achieve health justice. By joining us, you have become active contributors to this vision. Together, we strive to improve the health and well-being of individuals and communities through our integrated programs in education, research, and service. We are honored that you have chosen to embark on this journey with us.

The goal of the Master of Science in Biomedical Research (MSBR) program is to prepare students for doctoral training, whether in research or health professions, or to enter the workforce as highly skilled laboratory scientists.

While many of our graduates continue to pursue a Ph.D. and other doctoral professional degrees, others pursue careers in healthcare, allied health, biotechnology, pharmaceutical research, and other biomedically related fields.

Whatever your path may be, the MSBR program provides an excellent foundation for your future, and we are committed to supporting you every step of the way.

As graduate students, you will encounter challenges in both coursework and research. It is your responsibility to meet these challenges with resilience, curiosity, and confidence. You are not alone on this journey. Our faculty, staff, and fellow students are here to guide and support you as you grow into the best biomedical scientist you can be. I encourage you to take full advantage of the resources and support available to you. Resilience, persistence, and a commitment to learning define our students— and I have every confidence that you will uphold these qualities.

Welcome once again to Morehouse School of Medicine. I look forward to witnessing your growth and achievements in the years to come.

Karen Russell Randall, PhD

GEBS New Student Orientation | Class of 2026

Alexander Quarshie, MD, MS, FGCPS Director, Master of Science in Clinical Research Professor, Department of Community Health and Preventive Medicine

Dear MSCR Students, Welcome to the Master of Science in Clinical Research Program at Morehouse School of Medicine. You are now part of a premier institution committed to advancing health equity, social justice and biomedical discovery through rigorous training, community engagement, service, and research excellence.

Our curriculum is designed to prepare you for leadership in clinical and translational research, equipping you with the knowledge, analytical skills, and ethical foundation needed to address pressing health challenges. As future clinical researchers, you will be challenged to think critically, lead ethically, and engage meaningfully with various populations. You will collaborate with passionate peers and faculty, engage in transformative scholarship, and contribute to research that matters. Your work will contribute to the advancement of medicine and to the betterment of our communities. We look forward to supporting your academic and professional growth throughout this journey.

Sincerely,

Alexander Quarshie, MD, MS, FGCPS

GEBS New Student Orientation | Class of 2026

Rita Finley, PhD

Associate Dean, Office for Educational Outreach and Health Careers Director, Master of Science in Medical Sciences Degree Associate Professor, Department of Anatomy, Pathology and Medical Education

Dear MSMS Scholars, On behalf of the faculty, staff, students and leadership at the Morehouse School of Medicine (MSM) and its Office of Graduate Education in Biomedical Sciences (GEBS), it is with great enthusiasm that I welcome you to the Master of Science in Medical Sciences (MSMS) program!

You are beginning an exciting and transformative journey along the pathway to a medical career—one that demands dedication, resilience, and a deep sense of purpose. The MSMS degree is designed not only to strengthen your academic foundation in the biomedical sciences but also to prepare you to become a competitive candidate for medical school. More importantly, it positions you to be a compassionate, culturally humble, and service-minded physician.

At MSM, our mission to lead in the creation and advancement of health equity and health justice means that we are deeply committed to training future healthcare leaders who will serve our communities with integrity, empathy, and excellence. As an MSMS student, you are now a part of that mission—and part of a powerful legacy.

Over the coming 1-2 years, you will be challenged to grow intellectually, professionally, and personally. You will have access to dedicated faculty, supportive advisors and mentors, and a network of peers who share your aspirations. Take full advantage of every opportunity to learn, ask questions, and engage. Seek help when you need it! This is your time to become the scholar and health professional you aspire to be.

We are proud to welcome you into our MSM family, and we look forward to witnessing your progress and success.

With best wishes for rewarding academic years ahead!

Rita Finley, PhD

GEBS New Student Orientation | Class of 2026

Morris Benveniste, PhD

Director, Master in Neuroscience Program Neuroscience Institute

Dear Students, Welcome to the Morehouse School of Medicine family! Our goal in the Master of Neuroscience degree is to prepare you for further research careers either in neuroscience, medicine, industry or government. We focus on helping you acquire and improve skills of critical thinking at a graduate level through experimental design, quantitative analysis and interpretation. You will improve your ability to synthesize/determine next steps based on data you are given, and experimental techniques you will acquire and literature you will learn to read and evaluate. In addition, you will learn some neuroscience... possibly a little bit about how the brain works.

Coursework is rigorous, and we pride ourselves in being able to give each of you personal attention: however, it requires that you show interest and come into the office. We are here to help! Seek it! Learn as much as possible from this experience. Reach levels of understanding that you have never reached before. You are the next generation of neuroscientists. You will solve problems for which my generation has laid the groundwork.

You are here because you chose to be here, and not because someone made you come. Embrace it!

We have an open-door policy in the Neuroscience Institute. Come and take advantage.

Morris Benveniste, PhD

GEBS New Student Orientation | Class of 2026

GEBS Faculty & Staff

Curriculum and Assessment/ Operations Team

MS in Clinical Research

Danita Eatman-Daniels, PhD Associate Dean of Graduate Studies

Priscilla Pemu, MD Co-Director

Alexander Quarshie, MD, MS Director

Ernest Ricks, PhD Director, Assessment and Operations

Elizabeth Kwama Program Manager

Fatima Stallworth, MEd Assistant Director, Assessment and Operations

MS in Medical Sciences

Jaleesa Garth, PhD Director, Curriculum

Rita Finley, PhD Director

Kahli Smith, PhD, MSCR Curriculum Manager

Tambria McLaurin Interim Program Manager

Mae-Ling Baptiste Curriculum Coordinator

MS in Neuroscience

Tambria McLaurin Program Coordinator Veronica Henderson Graduate Teaching Lab Manager

Morris Benveniste, PhD Director Elizabeth Kwama Program Manager

Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Sciences Jason DeBruyne, PhD Director Fatima Stallworth, MEd Interim Program Manager

MS in Biomedical Research Karen Russell Randall, PhD Director Fatima Stallworth, MEd Interim Program Manager

GEBS New Student Orientation | Class of 2026

Orientation Program

7:30 – 8:30 a.m.

Room PAV 171

Registration & Breakfast

8:30 – 8:45 a.m.

Room PAV 171

Welcome & Introductions Danita Eatman-Daniels, PhD Associate Dean for Graduate Education in Biomedical Sciences

8:45 – 9:15 a.m.

Room PAV 171

Library Lynne Simpson, PhD, Interim Director

9:20 – 9:50 a.m.

Room PAV 171

Office of Student Learning and Educational Resources Victoria David, EdD, Director | Kofi Yeboah, Learning Specialist Jaime Grant, Learning Specialist

10 – 11:15 a.m.

HG Room B-217

Laptop Distribution Office of Information Technology

11:20 – 11:50 a.m.

Room PAV 171

Student-Led Artificial Intelligence Session Ayomide Olayiwola, 4th Year PhD Student, SGA President TKayhlia Cornish, 4th Year PhD Student, GEBS Lead Tutor

11:55 a.m. – 12:25 p.m. PhD Award Information Session (PhD Students Only) Room HG B-226 Ernest Ricks, PhD, GEBS Director of Assessment and Operations Pavilion Lobby-2nd FL

White Coat Fitting (Master Students Only) Office of Student Affairs

12:30 – 1:40 p.m.

Lunch | PAV Lobby-1st FL

1:45 – 2:45 p.m.

Room PAV 171

Ethical Dilemmas in Research Shawn Garrison, PhD, Director of Counseling Services

2:50 – 4:15 p.m.

Locations Vary

Program Overview: Policies, Curriculum, and Milestones MSBR: Karen Russell Randall, PhD (Room B-220B) MSNS: Morris Benveniste, PhD (Room B-215) MSCR: Alexander Quarshie, MD, MS (Room B-222) PhD: Jason DeBruyne, PhD (PhD Session will occur on 8/10)

2:50 – 3:20 p.m.

Pavilion Lobby-2nd FL

White Coat Fitting (PhD Students Only) Office of Student Affairs

4:15 – 5:15 p.m.

Pavilion Lobby-2nd FL

Advisor/Advisee Meet & Greet (PhD and MSBR Students Only)

GEBS New Student Orientation | Class of 2026

Entering Class of 2026 Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Sciences Last Name

First Name

State Undergraduate Institution Major

Year

Brantley

Timothy

VA

Virginia Union University

Biology

2018

Brown

Victoria

GA

Forensic Chemistry

2024

Hayes

Ananni

OH

Georgia Institute of Technology University of Cincinnati

Neurobiology

2026

Ingram

Kylie

GA

Georgia State University

Biology

2026

Kimble

Sydni

PA

Biology

2023

LeVasseur

Diana

FL

Pennsylvania State University University of Florida

Meza

Vedejenne

CA

Biochemistry

2022

Moore

Ashley

MD

Mount Saint Mary’s University Bowie State University

Biology

2022

Wright

Danielle

NY

Lehman College CUNY

Biological Sciences

2024

Plant Breeding and Genetics 2021

Master of Science in Biomedical Research Last Name

First Name

State Undergraduate Institution Major

Year

Barksdale

Darryl

GA

Tennessee State University

Biology

2026

Bates

Jayden

LA

Louisiana State University

Microbiology

2026

Charles

Kiara

NJ

Louisiana State University

Biological Sciences

2026

Davis

Andriana

AR

Clark Atlanta University

Biology

2025

Davis

Jordan

GA

Miles College

Biology

2025

Egwu

Onyebuchi

GA

Alabama A&M University

Biology

2026

GEBS New Student Orientation | Class of 2026

Entering Class of 2026 Master of Science in Biomedical Research Last Name

First Name

State Undergraduate Institution Major

Year

Mbonzo

Cori

GA

University of Georgia

Applied Biotechnology

2020

Tadesse

Fetsum

GA

Boston University

Biomedical Engineering

2022

Tracey

Makaela

MD

Hampton University

Biology

2024

Master of Science in Clinical Research Last Name

First Name

State Undergraduate Institution Major

Year

Chijindu, MD

Mbisike

GA

Mosley

Prince

Smith

Jordae

Physiological Science

2015

AL

University of California, Los Angeles Tuskegee University

Health Sciences

2024

GA

Oakwood University

Biology

2026

Master of Science in Neuroscience Last Name

First Name

State Undergraduate Institution Major

Year

Martin

Jessica

GA

2026

University of Alabama at Birmingham

Neuroscience

Bachelor of Science/Master of Science in Neuroscience Last Name

First Name

State Undergraduate Institution Major

Year

Cook

Ramya

GA

Spelman College

Biology

2026

Nicholson

Anthony

IL

Morehouse College

Biology

2026

Wakadilo

Malaikah

GA

Spelman College

Biology

2026

GEBS New Student Orientation | Class of 2026

Entering Class of 2026 Master of Science in Medical Sciences (1-Year Accelerated Track) Last Name

First Name

State Undergraduate Institution Major

Year

Bandy

Destine’

GA

Jackson State University

Biology

2021

James

Taylor

GA

Walteria

FL

North Carolina A&T State University Biology

2025

Phelps

North Carolina A&T State University University of Florida

Roberston

Jacob

MD

Morehouse College

Biology

2026

Mahek

Virani

GA

Georgia State University

Neuroscience

2026

Udogu

Gloria

CA

University of California San Diego

Human Biology

2023

2026

Master of Science in Medical Sciences (2-Year Traditional Track) Last Name

First Name

State Undergraduate Institution Major

Year

Blocker

Trenetta

IL

Central College

Psychology

2018

Brantley

Zora

VA

Howard University

Biology

2026

Clay

Kaylin

IL

Spelman College

Biology

2026

Croone

Amiyah

GA

Georgia State University

Psychology

2022

Harp

Asha

GA

Psychology

2026

Harris

Cayla

WI

Georgia Southern University Jackson State University

Biology

2018

Harris

Kali

TX

Spelman College

Psychology

2026

Jones

Destiny

TX

Spelman College

Biology

2025

King

D’Metrie

LA

Southern University

Biology

2023

GEBS New Student Orientation | Class of 2026

Entering Class of 2026 Master of Science in Medical Sciences (2-Year Traditional Track) Last Name

First Name

State Undergraduate Institution Major

Year

Lindsay

Zaria

GA

Morris

Bryce

GA

Mozee

Hilton

Neblett

Biology

2023

Biology

2025

MS

Georgia Southern University Georgia Southern University University of Mississippi

Psychology

2015

Sanai

GA

Hampton University

Psychology

2026

Ogidigen

Hannah

GA

Georgia State University

Economics

2025

Olubukola

Ogunfeitimi

TX

Biology

2019

Omokanye

Leader

GA

Sam Houston State University Morehouse College

Biology

2025

Rainer

Cameron

GA

Florida State University

Clinical Professions

2026

Richardson

Taylor

FL

Spelman

Biology

2026

Thrasher

Adam

GA

Morehouse College

Psychology

2024

GEBS New Student Orientation | Class of 2026

Leading the creation and advancement of health equity to achieve health justice.