January 17, 2014
MEDICAL UNIVERSITY of SOUTH CAROLINA
Vol. 32, No. 21
Inside Providing stability in the interim, NursiNg research
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College of Nursing welcomes new research associate dean.
PresideNTial
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hONOrs
Dr. Ida Spruill was honored with prestigious research award.
2 Around Campus 5 Meet Mark 9 Applause T h e c aTa ly s T ONliNe www.musc.edu/ catalyst
MUSC leader balances two key roles
By Mikie Hayes Public Relations Often when a leader serves in an interim capacity, projects are shelved, decisions postponed and uncertainty about the future runs rampant as people hold their breath waiting for the new leader to come in and provide direction. That depiction couldn’t be further from the case at MUSC. Academic health centers currently face great challenges. The impact of the Affordable Care Act, caps in tuition and the increasing competition to secure funding all contribute to the present vulnerability academic health centers throughout the country are feeling. During such a critical time, rarely is it optimal to have a vacancy in the seniormost leadership position. MUSC, MUSC Interim President Dr. Mark Sothmann greets students and faculty at the however, is fortunate that it remains 2013 Student Government Association dinner Nov. 20. firmly in capable hands during its leadership transition as interim president and provost, Mark Sothmann, Ph.D., mans meeting the challenges of the ever-changing am fortunate to have a lot of help from an health care environment. extraordinarily strong leadership team at MUSC. the helm. “An academic medical center cannot If there is something that I feel someone else can A seasoned provost and former dean, simply be ‘maintained’ during such do, I just pick up the phone and call them. So far, Sothmann brings vision, confidence, critical times. They are either moving I haven’t had anyone turn me down.” And though approachability and compassion to the forward or falling behind. At this time of his current workload is demanding, recruiting an interim position. While the Medical monumental change in America’s health interim provost to help during this crunch time University continues its search for a care environment, MUSC’s mission and would not have been particularly helpful, according new president, Sothmann presses on people could not be more critical. Every to Sothmann. planning for the future, addressing day, our students, faculty and staff are “I just never thought that bringing an interim present challenges and moving important rising to the challenges that are presented provost in, given that I’m hoping we have the initiatives forward. to us,” Sothmann said. president in the seat by July – that’s my hope – was A member of MUSC’s leadership team, Serving in the dual capacities of interim a good idea,” he said. “To bring somebody in from Sothmann has been integrally involved president as well as fully meeting the the outside for what would essentially be a year, at the highest level of decision making, demands of his own job, vice president for and it takes a year just to get up to speed, I’m not strategic planning and problem solving Academic Affairs and provost, Sothmann’s sure that would have not been much help especially since 2011. His bird’s–eye view, coupled plate is inordinately full, and yet, he with the complexities.” with strong senior leadership by his side, credits others: “Everyone has a great deal While addressing the complexities related to allows him to focus on preserving a sound on their plates right now, he explains. I foundation while being proactive in See President on page 6
READ THE CATALYST ONLINE - http://www.musc.edu/catalyst
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Around Campus
PeoPle
evenTs
Steven Carroll,
Marathon Bike Ride
Steven Carroll, M.D., Ph.D., was appointed chair of the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine. Carroll, who has an extensive career in pathology, neuropathology and research, is currently division director in the Department of Pathology – Neuropathology program. He will assume his role March 1.
The Charleston Marathon Bike Ride will take place at 8:30 a.m., Jan. 19 at Mamie Whitesides Elementary, 1565 Rifle Range Road in Mount Pleasant. Riders can participate in a 60–mile, 40–mile and 20–mile race. Proceeds benefit the nonprofit group, the R. Keith and Deborah C. Summey Youth Endowment for the Arts, which supports Charleston County Schools. Visit http://charlestonmarathon. com/weekend-events/bike-ride/.
Kathy Chessman Kathy Chessman, PharmD, was awarded the MUSC Pharmacy Distinguished Alumnus Award in Fall 2013. Chessman is a professor of clinical pharmacy and outcomes sciences at the MUSC campus.
Daniel Handel Daniel Handel, M.D., has been named as the Executive Medical Director/Chief Medical Officer of MUSC medical center.
Editorial office MUSC Office of Public Relations 135 Cannon Street, Suite 403C, Charleston, SC 29425. 843-792-4107 Fax: 843-792-6723 Interim editor: Cindy Abole catalyst@musc.edu Catalyst staff: Mikie Hayes, hayesmi@musc.edu
Footlight Players Theater
photos provided
Former University of South Carolina Gamecock quarterback Connor Shaw took time out during a recent Lowcountry visit to meet Children’s Hospital patient Mack Shieder III, age 5. Shieder is a leukemia patient from West Ashley and was excited to spend time with his football hero. Handel is currently associate professor of Emergency Medicine and director of Clinical Operations for Emergency Medicine at Oregon Health Sciences University. He will begin his role in March.
Jennifer Schnellmann Jennifer Schnellmann, Ph.D., associate professor of clinical pharmacy and outcomes sciences, was named 2013 The Catalyst is published once a week. Paid adver tisements, which do not represent an endorsement by MUSC or the State of South Carolina, are handled by Island Publications Inc., Moultrie News, 134 Columbus St., Charleston, S.C., 843-849-1778 or 843-958-7490. E-mail: sales@moultrienews.com.
distinguished alumna of Lyon College in Batesville, Ark. Schnellmann is a 1992 graduate earning her undergraduate degree in biology. She earned her doctorate in pharmacology–toxicology at the University of Arkansas in 1997.
MUSC Student Programs Office presents the play “Deathtrap!” at the Footlight Players Theater at 8 p.m., Jan. 30, 20 Queen Street. A reception will preceed the show at 7 p.m. Tickets are $5 (students) and $10 (nonstudents). The event is part of MUSC Night. Call 792-2693.
Lowcountry Oyster Festival The Greater Charleston Restaurant Association will host the Lowcountry Oyster Festival from 10 to 5 p.m., Jan. 26 at Boone Hall Plantation. Tickets are $20 (advance) and $25 (event day). The fundraiser benefits Hollings Cancer, Ronald McDonald House, Hospitality Heroes and other charities. Visit http://www. charlestonrestaurantassociation.com/ lowcountry-oyster-festival/.
Musc deParTMeNT Of PsychiaTry & BehaviOral scieNces “A Balancing Act: Evaluation, Treatment and Management of Sex Offenders in the Community” 8:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., Friday, Jan. 31 MUSC Wellness Center Auditorium Speaker: Elizabeth Letourneau, Ph.D., ASTA President–Elect
IOP and the S.C. Chapter of the Association for the Treatment of Sexual Abusers are hosting a one day conference for professionals involved in the assessment, treatment, prevention and management of sexual–offending behaviors. Topics include evidence– based modalities for community and residential–based treatment, assessment/ evaluation methods, etc. CME credit is available. For information, call 792-0343.
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Nursing taps researcher as new associate dean Staff Report Ronald E. Acierno, Ph.D., has been named associate dean for research at the College of Nursing, effective Jan. 2. In this position, Acierno will provide mentorship and leadership in managing all aspects of research grants, from helping to refine ideas during formulation phases, through peer review, submission and post-award activities. Acierno will remain in his position as research scientist at the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center where he directs several studies. In addition, he will continue his work with Veterans on Deck, a non– profit organization he founded to facilitate veteran's re-integration into society in a positive, team–building environment by serving as a board member, and the clinical and technical advisor. “Dr. Acierno will bring significant expertise, collaborative ideas and focused energy to our college in his new role. We are excited about taking our research trajectory to new levels under his leadership,” says Gail Stuart, PhD, dean of the College of Nursing. Prior to joining the MUSC College of Nursing,
Ron Acierno, Ph.D., was previously a professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and will continue as director of the post traumatic stress disorder team at the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center. His research interests include PTSD, elder care and telemedicine. Acierno was a professor in the Department of Psychiatry at MUSC where he held affiliations in the National Crime Victims Research and Treatment Center and in the Division of Military Psychiatry. He has two diverse areas of research: epidemiological work with victims of disaster, interpersonal violence and elder abuse, and treatment outcome work with civilian
and military populations suffering from post traumatic stress disorder. Acierno received the Outstanding Mentor Award by the MUSC Psychology Internship Class (2007–2008), the MUSC Golden Apple Circle of Excellence Teaching Award (2005) and a recognition for service to elderly crime victims from the Community Council on Family Violence (2000). Acierno received his bachelor¹s degree in psychology from the University of Virginia, and earned his master’s degree and doctorate in clinical psychology from Nova– Southeastern University. Acierno is currently the principal investigator on a Department of Defense grant to study a preventive intervention for PTSD for active duty service personnel and veterans, two South Carolina service grants from the Department of Public Safety, a VA grant evaluating if PTSD treatment can be delivered effectively via video conferencing technology, and the site principal investigator for three VA multi–site studies. His work has been funded by the National Institute on Aging, the National Institute of Mental Health, National Institute of Justice, Department of Defense, and South Carolina Department of Public Safety's VOCA, VAWA, and SVAP grant systems.
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Childhood immunizations part of preventive care By Mikie Hayes Public Relations Preventive care is the cornerstone of pediatrics, and vaccination represents one of the most important strategies in the prevention of disease in children, according to the National Institutes of Health. As a result of routine childhood immunizations, over the past century there has been a drastic reduction in the incidences of childhood diseases such as measles, mumps, chicken pox, pertussis and bacterial meningitis, reports the NIH and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Even so, parents continue to struggle with the idea of immunizing their little ones and feel their children are receiving too many vaccines. While the media covers anti-vaccine celebrities and the Internet highlights controversies related to immunizing, physicians like Andrea Summer, M.D., associate professor of pediatrics and pediatric hospitalist, work to ensure that parents understand how critically important vaccination is to their children and the community. “There is a lot of misinformation on the Internet that has fueled worries over vaccines,” said Summer. “The truth is vaccines are generally recognized as safe with only minor side effects. Some parents worry that giving too many vaccines at once will overwhelm the child’s immune system, but the number of germs that children fight off every day is far more than the number of germs in any combination of vaccines in the current schedule.” Summer will more fully discuss the
eNgiNeeriNg hONOrs
safety and efficacy of immunizing, as well as other interesting aspects of this topical subject on National Public Radio’s (NPR) Your Day program, with host Bobbi Conner, on Feb. 24, at noon. Whether exploring childhood immunizations or sports injuries, Conner discusses relevant medical issues with MUSC experts on “Your Day,” which airs twice a month, every other Monday from noon to 1 p.m. Upcoming MUSC segments include: q Jan. 27 — “New Ways to Reduce Infections in Hospital Settings” — Michael Schmidt, Ph.D. Schmidt is the director of the Office of Special Programs and professor and vice chair of the Department of Microbiology and Immunology.
q Feb. 10 — “Kids & Sports (& Preventing Sports Injuries)” — Shane Woolf, M.D. Woolf is associate professor and interim chief of Sports Medicine in the Department of Orthopedics. q Feb. 24 — “The Importance of Childhood Immunizations” — Andrea Summer, M.D. Summer is director of the MUSC Pediatric Travel Medicine Clinic and co-director of the MUSC International Adoption Clinic. The S.C. Public Radio stations broadcasting the Your Day segments are: WRJA-FM/88.1 Sumter, WNSC-FM/88.9 Rock Hill, WLJK-FM/89.1 Aiken, WJWJFM/89.9 Beaufort, WHMC-FM/90.1, Conway, WSCI-FM/89.3 Charleston, WEPR-FM/90.1 Greenville and WLTRFM/91.3 Columbia.
photos provided
Medical center biotechnician Robert Tritt was honored as a Health Care Hero (Trident Construction Health Care Engineer 2013) by the Charleston Regional Business Journal. Tritt was praised for his work in maintaining the neonatal and pediatric biomedical equipment of the Children’s Hospital.
Nursing’s online graduate program ranked second in U.S. Staff Report The MUSC College of Nursing’s (CON) online graduate nursing program has been ranked second in the country by U.S. News & World Report. The news magazine scored the CON among the top 50 online graduate nursing schools out of more than 450 schools surveyed for the last two years. "This impressive rating reflects our College of Nursing's ongoing pursuit for the highest quality in our educational offerings", said CON Dean Gail Stuart, Ph.D. "We are especially pleased that we are the top ranked school to offer the doctor of nursing degree in an online format. We believe that this recognition by U.S. News & World Report reflects our commitment to offering exceptional graduate education to nurses in an ‘anytime, anywhere’ format."
For the 2014 edition of the Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs rankings, U.S. News incorporated program ratings by peer institutions, in addition to the computed scores of student engagement; faculty credentials and training; student services and technology; and admissions selectivity. To view the rankings, visit http://www.usnews.com/education/ online-education/nursing. CON offers online programs that award a Master of Science in nursing (MSN) degree, a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in nursing degree. More than 250 students were enrolled in the MSN, DNP, and Ph.D. programs in fall 2013. An upcoming application deadline for the MUSC College of Nursing’s online DNP program is March 15. Learn more about MUSC’s DNP program at http://www.musc.edu/nursing/academics/DNP.
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Meet Mark
Mark Samber Department Business Development & Marketing Services How you are changing what’s possible at MUSC I am helping to develop a digital strategy for the clinical enterprise. Part of that responsibility means building an experience for patients and other audiences that connects them to all that MUSC has to offer. Pets and their names I have a Rough Collie named Sally and a Maine Coon cat named Heidi What music is in your player now There are more than 900 songs on my iPod —everything from Imagine Dragons and Armin Van Buren to Norah Jones, The Clash and Led Zeppelin What food is a must have in your pantry or fridge A fabulous extra virgin olive oil and avocados Favorite thing about living in Charleston The weather, people, history and food
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PresidenT
Continued from Page One
ongoing initiatives, Sothmann is focused on balancing the priorities of today with the possibilities of tomorrow and meeting the goal of “Changing What’s Possible.” “What we do now will impact the future. Obviously the first priority is to find the new president who will determine the course for the remainder of 2014 and beyond,” he said. “I’m sure that person will take a period of time to do a thorough assessment, but during that time, we still have numerous major initiatives that we need to complete and be successful in.” On July 10, 2013, the MUSC board of trustees unanimously appointed Sothmann as interim president for the Medical University, and he assumed the post the following month. Thomas Stephenson, chairman of the MUSC board of trustees, said the board felt it was imperative to maintain a sense of continuity for the university during the search for the next president. Ensuring nothing languishes during this period of transition, Sothmann and his leadership team continue to steadily advance initiatives that are critical to the success of the institution. “This year, Hollings Cancer Center submitted a renewal of their National Cancer Center designation, and in my opinion, it was a very successful submission,” he explained. “That was key for this campus to accomplish and we’re still waiting to hear. We also have coming up a Clinical and Translational Science Award submission and that is another crown jewel for the university that we should be successful in. Substantial decisions have been made in the delivery of the clinical enterprise to position us for the future. We also have some recruitment that we need to solidify in areas such as biomedical informatics and college deans. Additionally, the colleges have their own strategic initiatives that they are engaged in that we need as a campus to continue to move forward. So there is a lot that is happening here.” For academic health centers throughout the country, there are areas of concern that must be addressed in the new health care environment to ensure their future survival. Sothmann believes President Obama’s Affordable Care Act will be one of the most fundamental discussions that MUSC will have toward that end. “As we get further into 2104,” he said, “there is no question in my mind that we are going to be talking about how this campus reacts to the Affordable Care Act and what that means for both the clinical side and the academic side of the university, because all of that is going to impact both sides. There will be programs that will likely be modified, but there is no specific agenda. As interim president and provost, my role is to work with the deans, and other leaders, as best I can to facilitate their vision of where they want to take their aspects of the university and how I can help us achieve a coordinated effort that advances the strategic positioning of the university for the future.”
“In many ways MUSC is a gem for South Carolina and the region. We are big enough for people to be able to do what they need to get done, but small enough for people to know each other.” Dr. Mark Sothmann As leaders concentrate on ways to increase revenues across the institution, the academic side presents many opportunities for growth and reshaping. Expanding academic offerings in an effort to best prepare health care providers for the future while increasing the number of students presently enrolled are two priorities being explored. Sothmann said, “I’m not sure MUSC can stay with 2,800 students. We are going to have to figure out ways to expand our academic offerings. It has to be done strategically and within our mission. We’ve been at 2,800 for a long time and we can’t continue to be the institution we want to be without figuring that out. We’ve had two retreats in the last six months about online learning and what that means for MUSC. We have a strategic task force that is examining that so that conversation will go into the future. It will be something that will take some resources and take some thought with respect to how we’re going to do this, but there’s no question in my mind that the online capability is going to impact MUSC “Part of the limitation in growth,” he continued, “is bricks and mortar because you can only put so many students in a seat. Over the next three to five years, which is a transformational period, we need to think of new models.” In terms of changes on the horizon for MUSC, Sothmann explained that its mission to train health care providers and deliver care will never change. He also believes that the fact that health care accounts for 17 percent of America’s gross domestic product presents opportunities that MUSC has not yet realized,
especially as it pertains to new degree programs. MUSC will need to determine what those relevant degrees are and build those new programs, while at the same time remaining on the frontline of relevant aspects of the new health care environment that are just beginning to be discussed. Medical universities have long been accustomed to supporting their stated missions with revenues generated from various productive enterprises. In three decades in higher education and academic health centers, Sothmann has never before seen traditional funding for education, research and clinical care so challenged, but at the same time he believes new opportunities can emerge. “This creates a balancing act we have to deal with over the course of the next three years. The next three years for the future of MUSC are going to be critical,” he said. While the university continues on a national search for a new president, Sothmann and his leadership team have every intention of meeting the future head-on and doing what it takes to thrive in this new environment. “I think what’s going to happen is, around the country, you’re going to see a bifurcation of both universities and academic health centers and those who are able to thrive in the new environment and those who are not able to. There are a lot of people here who are working very hard to ensure that we thrive, and I think there will be a point at which we will see some separation occur.” Recently, Robert Tercek, a consultant for the Charleston Regional Development Alliance, asserted that Charleston – relative to its competitors – needs its own comprehensive research university to improve education and attract industry to this region. Much discussion surrounds the possibility that the South Carolina Legislature is moving to merge MUSC and the College of Charleston in an effort to create a comprehensive research university. “What we’re doing right now is ferreting through all this. We’ve had meetings with the college and combined meetings with the college and the Chamber of Commerce. Our boards of trustees have been talking and legislators are talking about it. Where it will end up at this point, I don’t know, but nobody loses with conversation,” said Sothmann. Through seven years at MUSC serving as dean of the College of Health Professions, provost and now interim president, Sothmann has developed a deep affinity for the people of MUSC. “MUSC is a very, very fine institution and extremely collegial,” he said. “In many ways it’s a gem for South Carolina and the region. We are big enough for people to be able to do what they need to get done, but small enough for people to know each other. There’s a sense of community here that some of the larger institutions don’t have. We know each other and see each other walking around the campus and at meetings. In the end, MUSC is about its people.” While presently the seas ofhealth care may be turbulent, with Mark Sothmann at MUSC’s helm, MUSC can rest assured that its ships is steady indeed.
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Nursing advocate receives Presidential Career Award By Mikie Hayes Public Relations
I
da Spruill, Ph.D., R.N., was named a recipient of the Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers by U.S. President Barack Obama on Dec. 23. The PECASE awards are the highest honor bestowed by the U.S. government on science and engineering professionals in the early stages of their independent research careers. “The impressive achievements of these early-stage scientists and engineers are promising indicators of even greater successes ahead,” President Obama said in a White House statement. “We are grateful for their commitment to generating the scientific and technical advancements that will ensure America’s global leadership for many years to come.” Interim MUSC president and provost Mark Sothmann, echoed that praise. “On behalf of the faculty and staff of MUSC, I am pleased to offer the warmest congratulations to Dr. Ida Spruill for being named a recipient of the Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers,” he said. “This prestigious award recognizes Dr. Spruill’s outstanding work in the area of ethno-cultural barriers to health literacy and disease management among African–Americans, as well as the tremendous potential she shows for future leadership and research impact. Her project holds great promise for the state and beyond, and we salute her
dedication to excellence and intellectual discovery. Dr. Spruill brings great pride to the College of Nursing, the Medical University, and the state of South Carolina.” When Spruill first received the letter apprising her of the honor, she thought it was an invitation to have her name listed in a book of who’s–who for a price. So, she put it to the side. It wasn’t until her son called and said, “Mom, this is real, you’re being honored by the president,” that she fully grasped the magnitude of the award. Spruill “I’m still in amazement,” Spruill said. “I’m humbled to be recognized by such esteemed experts for this honor and thankful to be able to work with Sea Islanders, a population I truly respect and love. To be honored for doing something I love, with people who put their trust in me, is an emotionally–charged experience. I am elated to bring positive recognition to MUSC, especially the College of Nursing, and to South Carolina.” Spruill believes all people have something to give to the advancement of science. She is especially concerned about the health literacy of vulnerable populations: How people understand and process
Transactions save hospital millions Staff Report Armadale Capital (New York, N.Y.), an FHA multifamily mortgage lender specializing in health care finance, announced the closing of a new $47 million FHA-insured loan for Medical University Hospital Authority, an agency of the State of South Carolina, which owns and operates the MUSC medical center. This was Armadale Capital’s second refinancing transaction with MUHA, the first being a $361 million refinancing and mortgage reduction transaction for substantially all of MUHA’s health care facilities which closed in December, 2012. The transactions together will save over $70 million over the next twenty years for MUHA. The FHA loans are insured under the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Section 242 Hospital Mortgage Insurance Program. Both loans were funded by the issuance of GNMA mortgage–backed securities. Working closely with MUHA and the State of South Carolina’s Office of State Treasurer for the past two years, Armadale Capital helped develop a financing plan designed to achieve significant interest expense reductions on MUHA’s debt, as well as to terminate an outstanding swap and simplify MUHA’s
accounting procedures. The first refinancing also reduced principal outstanding by $2.2 million. These benefits will enhance MUHA’s ability to continue to modernize its campus. “MUHA established and refined a focused plan of finance and fortunately, with a highly favorable interest rate environment, we were able to achieve savings levels far in excess of industry refinancing standards and better position the Medical Center financially to compete and pursue its mission” said Stephen Pack, president of Armadale Capital. “These transactions directly improve our ability to provide health care to our community now and over the long term, and we are very appreciative of our partnerships with HUD and the State Treasurer’s office in making these transactions real. This is a winner for MUHA, the State and federal government, and most importantly, the residents of South Carolina” said Stephen Hargett, Chief Financial Officer of MUHA. “As our capital and refinancing needs arise, the HUD mortgage insurance program has consistently been instrumental in providing access to cost-effective capital for our institution” added Hargett.
health information, how they respond and act on that information, as well as how other related factors affect them. Spruill is interested in exploring the important relationship between health literacy, cultural beliefs and diabetes self–management. Understanding this relationship, she explained, is pivotal to the design of tailored interventions to improve self–management and health status in populations disproportionately affected with the burden of diabetes. “Most research on health literacy doesn’t take into account the impact of culture and beliefs. South Carolina is divided into four distinct demographic regions. I want to understand how the social determinants of health (where people are born, socialized, and raised) affect health literacy — and their beliefs about health. We anticipate that the health behaviors of groups will differ due to genesis of the population in the regions, as well as the variability in social determinants of health affecting health literacy within and between regions. People with poor health literacy tend to have poorer health outcomes and that typically includes the elderly, uninsured, undereducated, and minorities,” Spruill said. Spruill is driven by the good in the people she serves. One example that stands out was the day an elderly woman came to MUSC to participate in a research study. While it was a hardship, she and her sister drove in from a little town near Florence. “She was 75 and had been fasting all night,” shared Spruill. “She got terribly lost at MUSC and was running very late. All she could remember was the word sugar and a kind public safety officer finally got them to the right place. When they walked in, I said, ‘I thought maybe you weren’t coming.’ I will never forget what she said to me. ‘I had to come, I couldn’t let you down.’ When I think of that, it brings tears to my eyes and warms my soul. The trust people place in me makes it all worthwhile.” Spruill joins 101 other recipients from across the nation in receiving this honor. She was one of only two National Institute of Nursing Research scientists to receive the presidential honor and South Carolina’s only recipient. The awards are conferred annually at the White House following recommendations from the participating federal agencies. Spruill does not know who submitted her research project for consideration, but believes it likely came from the NINR. “Dr. Spruill has distinguished herself as an exceptional nurse researcher and advocate for the highest quality of patient care for diverse populations,” said Gail Stuart, Ph.D., R.N., dean of the College of Nursing. The College of Nursing is so very proud to have one of our stellar faculty recognized with this outstanding award.” People often ask Spruill what fuels her research and her immense love for the people involved. She refers to her favorite quote by Marianne Williamson: “And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.”
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Employee Wellness
L
ooking to lose a little holiday weight, fulfill a New Year’s resolution to get fit and eat better or need a total body makeover? Whatever your reasons, if you are ready to make your health a priority, we’ve got the tools to start the year off right. A variety of resources Susan Johnson are available for MUSC employees and students, offered at convenient times and locations and either free or for a reduced rate.From lunch and learn events focusing on healthy eating and active living to weight loss challenges and special employee fitness classes and memberships, the MUSC Office of Health Promotion is committed to helping the entire MUSC community get fit and healthy for life. In addition to the programs listed below, be sure to watch broadcast messages for daily tips that will help us stick to our goals for a healthier 2014.
Health at work
Healthy Eating
q Meal Planning Lunch and Learn — Quick and Easy: How to balance meals/ snacks for ideal nutrition and ideas for healthy cooking; 12:15 to 12:45 p.m., Jan. 22, Colbert Library room EL102 or via Adobe Connect, https://connect. musc.edu/meal_planning/. Email muscempwell@musc.edu to register q Mindful by Sodexo: A new approach to healthy eating offered at the main and ART cafeterias. The Mindful approach helps people make healthy choices with satisfying flavors, full plates, etc. Look for the green apple icon and promotions. q Farmers Markets: Fresh fruits and vegetables are available from local farmers 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesdays, Harborview Office Tower; 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesdays and Thursdays, ART; 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Fridays, Horseshoe.
Physical Fitness
q Employee XPRESS membership to MUSC Wellness Center: Employees will be offered a one–year membership (no spouses or dependents) for $25 per month ($15 enrollment fee).
Workouts during limited hours, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., weekdays; 8 to 10 p.m., Monday to Thursday and 6 to 8 p.m., Friday. Register at the Wellness Center membership desk. q MUSC Employee Wellness Fitness Series developed a free walking group program for employees and students to make it easier to stay motivated while meeting health and fitness goals. For maps and info on joining a walking group, visit http://mcintranet.musc. edu/employeewellness/. q Walking Program: MUSC Employee Wellness has developed a free walking group program for employees and students to make it easier to stay motivated while meeting health and fitness goals. For maps and info on joining a walking group, visit http://mcintranet.musc.edu/ employeewellness/. q MUSC Fitness Park: The MUSC Fitness Park, part of the Greenberg Greenway, is now open and available to use. A workout designed to take just eight minutes was developed by the MUSC Wellness Center instructors and can be downloaded at http://mcintranet. musc.edu/employeewellness/events.htm.
Other Employee Wellness
q Worksite screening: The next worksite screening will be held from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m., Jan. 24, EL–102. This screening, valued at about $350, is available to employees of the State Health Plan (including the MUSC Health Plan) for only $15 (covered spouses also can participate for $15). Employees and spouses without this insurance can participate for $42. To register, go to www.musc.edu/employeewellness. q Chair massages: Free massages are offered to employees on Tuesday nights and midday Wednesdays. Look for broadcast messages for locations and times.
MUSC Urban Farm
q Sessions are open to all, no prior experience required q Winter Lunch and Learn — Topic: New Year Legends, 12 to 1 p.m., Jan. 22 q Sunset Work & Learn, 4 to 5 p.m., Jan. 22 q Early bird maintenance — Wednesdays 7:30 to 8:30 a.m., Jan. 22
Global Health travel grants available MUSC Center for Global Health has announced funding opportunities of up to $2,000 for global travel to conduct research or training projects in low or middle–income countries. This news comes as students begin preparing for spring courses and budget time and money for professional development opportunities. The center’s goal in
releasing this request–for–applications for Trainee Global Health Travel Grants is to foster and support skill development through research and training programs abroad. All grant proposals must be submitted by Feb. 12 at 5 p.m. For information, visit http://globalhealth. musc.edu/trainee–global–health– travel–grant.
THe CaTalysT, January 17, 2014 9
applause prograM
The following MUSC employees received recognition through the Applause Program: Medical Center
Debra Brigham, Health Information Services; Ana Virella-Pena, Women’s Services; Janet Snipe, Radiology; Kate Wendorf, Anesthesia & Perioperative Medicine; Suzanne Ramage, Volunteer & Guest Services; Justin Ravenel, Volunteer &Guest Services; Dorothy Weiss, ART 6 West; Sarah Fath, ART 6East; Martha Perry, ART 6East; Sarah Davis, Radiology; Ruth Tolbert, Charleston Memorial Hospital; Eric Graham, Pediatric Cardiology; Joy Badiuk, PCICU; Kristen Burn, Children’s Services Administration; Tica Bollinger, ART Endoscopy; Yolanda Walker, Women’s Services; Latoya Glover, PAS; Carolyn Harrison, PAS; Carolyn Keller, 8 West; Paige McCandless, 9East; Melvena Nelson, Environmental Services; Jessica Giordano, 8West; Krystal Marshall, 5 East; Britini Camarato, Meduflex Team; Edward Litwin, ART 6East; Sholanda Barker, ART 6East; Rebecca Hank, ART 6West; Christopher Discolo, Otolaryngology; Evan Vickers, Pediatric Cardiology; Tiffany Jamerson, 8West; Tamequa Durant, MedSurg Registration; Carol Smalls, RT Children’s Services Registration; Adrienne Gregory, Patient Registration; Karen Miller, AMB PACU; Catherine Kaiser, MeduflexTeam; Elizabeth Edmonds, Dialysis Unit; Brennan Grooms, Patient Transportation; Andrew Stec, Urology Services; Diana Evans, ART 4East; Brenda Brown, HVC; Tracy Floyd, Women’s Services; Deborah Willis, Laboratory Services; Julie Jones, Chest Pain Center; Karen Goff, Volunteer & Guest Services; Bret Johnson, ART 4East; Hannah Elder, ART MedSurg Registration; Christi Ferguson, GI Clinic; Nicholas Salvucci, Meduflex Team; Kelly Keiter, Acute Directional Unit; Lori McCall, Health Information Services; Darian Epps, ART 6West; Ashley Carr, ART 6 East; Pooja Elias, Gastroenterology & Hepatology; Patricia Donoho, ART 6East; Margarita Konikova, ART 6 East; Dena Middleton, ART 6 West; Jill
Norris, ART 6West; Marsha Christian, ART 6 West; Stephanie Ketchens, Patient Access/Financial Services; Marifrasier Carpenter, Hollings Clinics; Renee Straub, Dermatology; Romica Stephens, RT Children’s Services Registration; Jessica Edwards, Peri-Anesthesia Unit; LaRhonda Tumolo, RT Neurology Clinic; Norma Scott, RT Neurology; Clinic; Vicki Rayl, PACU; Terri Massey, Volunteer & Guest Services; Rebecca Staples, Women’s Care Services; Adina Gaines–Garner, Women’s Care Services, Rachel McDowell, 7B; Ja’nee Crawford, Health Information Services; Douglas Simon, Safety & Security; Lindsay Foley, Residents OB—GYN; Roberta Whetsell, 7A; Casey Howett, Women’s Services; Donald Flystra, Obstetrics-Gynecology; Nekeesha Green, Urology Clinic; Angela Thompson, Women & Infant Services; Lisa Carraher, Women’s Care Services, Angela Moultrie, RT Children’s Services Registration; Cortnee Shearill, Dietetic Services; Gwen Frazier, Peri-Anesthesia Unit; Kaylin Currie, Neurosciences; Meagan Gray, Residents Medicine; Darian Epps, ART 6West; Tolanda Henderson, 8West; Shireka Bolton, Meduflex Team; Maude Smith, ART 6 West; Tracy Floyd, Women’s Services; Fred Scruggs,10West; Chazzary Astacio, 10West; Metzfe Sulyma, 10West; Tyler Cole, Oncology & Medical/Surgical Services; Brianna Hill, 10West; Jaclyn Murphy, 10West; Jennifer Aron, Residents Medicine; Monica Zeigler, Physical Therapy; Greg Colleton, Oncology & Medical/Surgical Services; Kai Jenkins; 6West; Suzanne Brown, 6 West; Sharon Dupree-Capers, Patient Registration; Amelia Hinchcliffe; Women’s Services; Tabitha Burns, Women’s Services; Mary Washington, Cardiology; Brenda Brown, Women’s Services; Jessica Hardy, Women’s Services; and Deborah Jones, PAS University
Cindy Abole, Public Relations; Mary Gallagher, Dental Medicine–AEGD Clinic; Vera Rhodan, PediatricEndocrinology; and JoAnn Waller, Dental Medicine–AEGD Clinic
10 THe CaTalysT, January 17, 2014
THe CaTalysT, January 17, 2014 11
MLK Jr. Holiday
Furniture
Furniture
Full Mattress Set with Euro Pillow Top New $115. Please Call: 843-270-4283
Bed-Queen Pillowtop that is Brand New in Plastic. Will take $125. Please call 843-270-4283
King Size Plush Set New, will sacrifice for $275 843-270-4283
Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday is Jan. 20. University Mail Services, Office of Parking Management and University Tranpsortation Services (campus shuttle bus service) will be closed in observance of this holiday. Employees who are required to work on this holiday are invited to park in one of the employee parking facilities: President Street parking garage 91 President Street; Bee Street Parking Garage, corner of Bee and Courtenay Drive and Courtenay Drive garage, Charleston Center Drive. For more information contact the Office of Parking Management, 792-3665.
MLK Jr. Holiday Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday is Jan. 20.
12 THe CaTalysT, January 17, 2014