February 5, 2016
MEDICAL UNIVERSITY of SOUTH CAROLINA
Vol. 34, No. 21
Eighth Annual ‘Cares For Kids’ Radiothon
MUSC Children’s Hospital patient Maddie Speizman, left, enjoys some fun moments with her mom, Heather, Speizman, as she serves as a guest DJ during the annual “Cares for Kids” radiothon held Jan. 28 to Jan. 29. Below photo:Dr. Michelle Hudspeth stops by the studio to talk with Laura Shieder, patients Mac and Scout Shieder’s mom. The event was sponsored by MUSC and radio stations Y102.5 and 103.5. Proceeds from the radiothon will benefit the new MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital.
photos by Ginny Taylor, MUSC Childrens Hospital
MUSC adopts decorum policy for BOT meetings Staff Report The MUSC Board of Trustees has adopted a decorum policy designed to preserve the atmosphere of dignity and propriety required while the MUSC board is in session. The policy states: “The Board of Trustees for the Medical University of South Carolina and the Medical University Hospital Authority (hereinafter referred to as the “MUSC Board”) recognizes the importance of
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Concerns over virus Officals keep eye on Zika virus.
conducting the business of the university and hospital authority in an open and public manner and in an environment of personal respect and courtesy. This policy is intended to preserve the civility and decorum necessary to meet these goals. The rules of decorum contained herein are intended to apply to MUSC Board of Trustees and committee meetings (hereafter referred to as “MUSC Board Meetings”) in Colcock Hall or the premises where the Board meets.” In summary, the rules of decorum include:
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q Requiring all individuals to conduct themselves appropriately and in keeping with the decorum of the meeting; q Refraining from disruptive behavior, profane or abusive language, personal attacks and irrelevant or repetitive comments; q Refraining from conduct that disrupts or impedes the meeting or creates and/or provokes a disturbance involving physical contact;
See Policy on page 4
new CCMO
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Employee Applause
Sheila Champlin joins MUSC senior leadership team.
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Meet Carol
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D&I Engagement
2 The caTalysT, Feb. 5, 2016
Applause Program The following MUSC employees received recognition through the Applause Program for going the extra mile: Medical Center
General Internal Medicine
Sara Barbara Walker, Environmental Services; Natausha Cancer, 9East; Risha Malla, Residents Neurology; Barbara McCall, 9West; Amber Sherritt, Adult ED; Marilen Perilla, 9West; Sharon Dupree-Capers, Revenue Cycle; Joseph Sakran, General Surgery; Ashley Rhoad, 8West; Dylan Lanphere, MICU; Deidra Huckabee, MICU; Nena Baisden, 8West; Wendy Easterling, 8West; Cynthia Garrett, Environmental Services; Annette Holmes, Respiratory Therapy; Leeann Fuerst, 9East; Lauren McKulla, 9 East; Chris Hock, 9East; Daniel Polon, Meduflex Team; Lindsey Cox, Urology Services; Greg Buck, Gastroenterology/ Hepatology; and Woodrow Coker,
University
Karen Bellacicco, College of Dental Medicine/DFP; Robert Davis, OCIOInformation Services; Stephanie Dors, College of Dental Medicine; Nathan Dubosh, University Grounds; Richard Duncan, College of Dental Medicine/DFP; Ann Jeffrey, College of Dental Medicine; Anjinetta Johnson, Psychiatry/Addiction Sciences; Carmen Ketron, University Grounds; Irina Pechenaya, College of Dental Medicine; Heather Popvich, College of Dental Medicine/DFP; Walter Renne, College of Dental Medicine/ DFP; and Robert Davis, OCIO-Information Services
Global Health trainee travel grants available The MUSC Center for Global Health (CGH) is pleased to announce a request for applications (RFA) for faculty pilot project grants. The CGH anticipates awarding between four to six grants through this funding process, which will provide MUSC faculty recipients up to $20,000 for a 12–month period. Through this RFA, the CGH seeks to provide pilot funds to stimulate research in low and middle–income countries, with the larger goal of enabling investigators to leverage preliminary findings and data to become the basis of a competitive extramural research grant application. Projects that have the best potential for future growth and external funding will be prioritized for funding. The deadline to submit an application is noon, Tuesday, March 16. Applicants can submit their application via the SCTR Pilot Project website. Applications must include a biographical sketch, project description, budget and justification, proposal, letters of support, matching funds, etc. Applications will be evaluated by reviewers with appropriate expertise and ranked based on the review criteria as provided. For more information, visit http://globalhealth.musc.edu/rfa-faculty-pilot-projectgrants or contact Kathleen Ellis, MUSC Center for Global Health, at ellisk@musc.edu.
Editorial of fice MUSC Office of Public Relations 135 Cannon Street, Suite 403C, Charleston, SC 29425. 843-792-4107 Fax: 843-792-6723 Editor: Cindy Abole catalyst@musc.edu
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., 843-958-7480 or 843-937-4803. E-mail: sales@moultrienews.com.
SCTR Institute, Office of Interprofessional Initiatives announce collaborations grant program awards The South Carolina Clinical & Translational Research Institute and the MUSC Office of Interprofessional Initatives is hosting a team science and interdisciplinary and interprofessional collaborations small grant program. The purpose of this grant is to promote team science and evaluate the impact of teamwork on scientific productivity, patient safety outcomes, translational research, education and clinical care. Team science initiatives are designed to promote collaborative and often cross-disciplinary approaches to answer research questions that focus on understanding and enhancing the antecedent conditions, collaborative processes and outcomes associated
with team science initiatives, including their scientific discoveries; educational training and clinical outcomes; and translations of research findings into new practices, patents, products, technical advances and policies. Award amounts may be up to $15,000 (12 months). To obtain an application or to access the online application submission link, visit http:// academicdepartments.musc.edu/ sctr/. Deadline to receive completed applications is by noon, Tuesday, March 15. For information, contact Dayan Ranwala, Ph.D., SCTR at ranwala@ musc.edu or Jeff Borckardt, Ph.D., director, MUSC Office of Interprofessional Initiatives at borckard@
Health Innovation Center call for new Apps ideas The MUSC Health Innovation Center conducts Idea Campaigns to promote Innovation at MUSC. The focus of this idea campaign is "App Development." We want your ideas for MUSC or health–related apps. Share your your best ideas and the winning ideas will be awarded and implemented with the help of our team of MUSC Technology Center (TACHL) experts. All members of the MUSC community are invited
to submit their ideas from Feb. 1 to Feb. 14. Submit your ideas for an innovative app to https://redcap.musc.edu/ surveys/?s=9NPP4XM4WL. For information, visit http://mcintranet. musc.edu/MUHIC. For more information about the MUSC Health Innovation Center and MUSC Technology Center, visit http://tachl.musc.edu/ or contact Catherine Flanagan at flanaganc@ muse.edu.
8th Annual Gourmet & Grapes Benefitting the Hollings Cancer Center
Thursday to Sunday, Feb. 18-21, 2016 The Sanctuary, Kiawah Island A dazzling weekend at the Sanctuary with visionaries from the culinary world Thursday, Feb. 18: Gourmet, Grapes & Grain (Osprey Point) Friday, Feb. 19: An Epicurean Affair (Ocean Room) Saturday, Feb. 20: Courmet Culinary Luncheon (Sanctuary) Sunday, Feb. 21: Farewell Brunch (Sanctuary) For information, call Kiki Cooper, 792-1669 or http://www.gourmetandgrapes.com
The caTalysT, Feb. 5, 2016 3
MUSC leaders urge caution in face of Zika reports Staff Report Doctors and other leaders at MUSC are keeping a close eye on information about the Zika virus and stand ready to deal with any cases. While Roper St. Francis hospital has sent blood samples from three pregnant women to be tested for the virus, no MUSC patients have needed to be tested so far. All three of the Roper St. Francis patients may have been exposed to Zika while traveling. There are no confirmed cases of the virus in South Carolina at this point. Zika may be linked to microcephaly, a rare birth defect that causes babies to have small heads and brain damage, and to paralysis in adults. MUSC maternalfetal medicine specialist Scott Sullivan, M.D., said right now, there are more questions than answers about the virus. “Be informed, don’t panic,” he urged. “This is going to be an unfolding story. It really right now is not a huge public threat here. People who are pregnant just need to take travel precautions.” He said MUSC has seen patients who are worried about the virus, but none has met the standard for needing to be tested. They either didn’t travel to the affected areas or aren’t pregnant. Pregnant women are the main concern because of the potential threat to babies; in most other people, the virus causes a mild illness that may include a fever, a rash, joint pain and conjunctivitis. The CDC offers more details about the virus on its Zika page and lists affected
countries, mostly in the Caribbean and Latin America, on its travelers’ health page. It has also issued interim guidelines for pregnant women who have traveled to affected areas. MUSC infectious disease specialist Cassy Salgado, M.D., said the speed with which the virus is spreading is an important health concern for everyone. “It is always a good idea to keep informed of what is occurring on a local level as well as regionally, nationally and globally. “It is particularly important to remain up to date if you plan to travel in the future or are a frequent traveler. The situation has the Salgado ability to change rapidly and public health leaders at the World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are frequently updating their information sites and materials.” Zika first captured widespread attention in the U.S. in December, when news reports described thousands of cases of microcephaly in Brazil that officials there linked to the virus. So far, as Sullivan noted, the evidence linking the condition with the virus is
Photo provided
When Aedes species mosquitoes bite a person infected with the Zika virus, they can pass along the virus to the people they bite after that. not conclusive. But health authorities are clearly concerned. On Jan. 28, the World Health Organization said the virus was “spreading explosively” in the Americas. Zika is spread by the Aedes aegypti mosquito, a type that does live in the U.S., but there are no reports of anyone in the U.S. being infected by a mosquito bite they got in this country. Salgado said while public health officials are discussing widespread strategies for mosquito control, everyone can take steps to reduce the number of mosquitoes. “This includes eliminating any areas of standing water such as uncovered rain barrels, buckets, tires, child swimming pools, and birdbaths. A more comprehensive list of measures can be found on the CDC website.” Though the primary vector is mosquitoes, research is underway to see if the virus may be transmitted via blood. Jerry Squires, M.D., Ph.D., medical director of transfusion medicine at MUSC, said fortunately, the cooler weather helps slow the mosquito-borne virus from spreading rapidly in the U.S. “Fortunately, there has only been one possible case of a blood transmission, and that was in Brazil,” he said. MUSC doesn’t collect blood, but the
Food and Drug Administration and MUSC’s blood supplier, the American Red Cross, are evaluating whether the virus can be transmitted through blood and how to test Squires donated blood that might be used for transfusions. Since not everyone who has the virus might show symptoms, if it is blood borne, they would need an effective test, Squires said. “They’re on top of it, and they’re looking into it. We don’t have to be concerned about it at the moment.” There is no vaccine against or treatment for the Zika virus, although efforts are underway to change that. For now, Salgado had this advice for people in South Carolina. “You should be aware of how the virus is spreading, particularly if there is local domestic transmission, and be familiar with the measures for mosquito control and personal protection from mosquito bites.”
4 The caTalysT, Feb. 5, 2016 .
A Letter from the President January 31, 2016 Dear MUSC Family, I want to take a moment to share some thoughts on the Decorum Policy that the Board of Trustees passed today. As many of you know, protesters disrupted our December board session with verbal interruptions, physical intimidation, inflammatory language, and signage calling for a “riot.” The Decorum Policy passed today is designed to prevent such behavior and permit our board members to perform their duties without the specter of hostility and threats. (The Policy is available at this link: http://academicdepartments. musc.edu/administration/board/index.html) It is important to understand that as president of this university, the senior leadership team and I are personally committed to diversity and inclusion. We have been working very diligently to move diversity and inclusion forward through a broad and serious initiative that touches every part of the MUSC community. Nearly 18 months ago, with the board’s full support, we established the President’s Advisory Council on Diversity and Inclusion. Two board members sit on the council, and I take an active part in the meetings, listening to the differing perspectives and insights of a diverse representation of community members. The council is doing good work and is a direct conduit for sharing important diversity and inclusion issues with the board. This council gives the people of our community — and I mean those both inside and outside of MUSC — the opportunity to join with us and be part of our intentional advancement toward a more diverse and inclusive MUSC. Making an impact takes community, purpose, stubbornness, and time, but we are making real progress. As just one example, the senior leadership of this university has five African–Americans out of 17 at the table: That represents nearly 30 percent of our leadership (see box at right) .That has never happened before at this university, and it is an accomplishment that is worth noting. Every board agenda allows for items from the Diversity and Inclusion Council to be added. Through this council, the community has a clear opportunity to speak to the board. We look forward to the time when diversity and inclusion will be an intrinsic part of our institution’s fabric, but until then, you have my personal commitment and that of our leadership team that we will continue to move forward for the betterment of our institution and our greater community. Yours in service, David J. Cole, M.D., FACS President, Medical University of South Carolina
Policy
Continued from Page One
q Requiring members of the public to remain seated in designated areas and not approach the board table; q Prohibitions on signage or placards inside Colcock Hall or the premises where the board meets. Additionally, the policy states: “Any person who engages in conduct that disrupts, disturbs or otherwise impedes the orderly conduct of an MUSC board meeting will be asked to refrain from the conduct and shall be warned by the chairman of the board or the presiding officer. Individuals who refuse to refrain from disruptive behavior after being warned will be asked to leave the meeting and may be escorted out.” Mark Sweatman, secretary to the board of trustees, noted that as always, the public is welcome to attend MUSC Board of Trustees meetings. He also stated that while MUSC values dialogue, it must be conducted in a respectful manner, not in a hostile or volatile way, referring to the disruptions caused by protesters at December’s meeting. “As a higher education institution, MUSC is committed to the open exchange of ideas and the healing efforts
“As a higher education institution, MUSC is committed to the open exchange of ideas and the healing efforts within our communities. In the midst of this, however, we will not tolerate our employees, board members or visitors being intimidated or threatened.” Mark Sweatman within our communities. In the midst of this, however, we will not tolerate our employees, board members or visitors being intimidated or threatened,” said Sweatman. The Rules of Decorum policy is effective immediately and is posted here http://academicdepartments.musc.edu/ administration/board/index.html.
The caTalysT, Feb. 5, 2016 5
Meet Carol
Carol Steinmeyer Department and how long at MUSC Children’s Hospital Volunteer & Guest Services; three years as a volunteer and six weeks as a guest services employee
Family and their names Husband John; two children, Andrew and Kate; grandkids, Maggie, Emma and another grandson on the way Most insightful adventure I had an opportunity to work in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for three years, providing orientation to expatriates in a hospital environment. It was a wonderful lifelearning experience. Favorite restaurant Magnolias by the front window Super Bowl 50 — Panthers or Broncos Carolina Panthers!
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6 The caTalysT, Feb. 5, 2016
Chief communications role a welcome challenge By Mikie hayes hayesMi@musc.edu
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earning, said Sheila Champlin, MUSC’s new chief communications and marketing officer (CCMO) is what has kept her vibrant, as well as always being open to taking that next step, accepting the challenge of learning new areas of communications. Sheila’s experiences have taken her far and wide. New York City–based Ogilvy Adams & Rinehart, considered one of the Top 10 public relations firms nationally, gave Champlin her start in the high–stakes agency business. For nearly eight years, she served as an account executive, and later, for one year as vice president for business development, where she led the agency’s new business area. Next she accepted the position of vice president and director of corporate communications for Prudential Securities, Inc., at a time when the highly scrutinized brokerage firm was at the peak of its limited partnership crisis. She was hired to handle communications, both internal and external, and address ethical issues. She continued to add to her skill set through executive communication and marketing positions with AT&T Capital and Scholastic, Inc., subsequently taking time out to run her own media and communication consulting firm while she and husband, Michael, raised their daughter Paige, now 15. One of the most exciting experiences she had during her consulting phase was having the opportunity to work closely with Grambling State’s football coach Eddie Robinson, then the winningest coach in Division I. Ten years ago she joined the University of Tennessee Health Science Center team, eventually rising to the position of assistant vice chancellor of communications and marketing. On Jan. 4, Champlin became MUSC’s first CCMO. Champlin remembers her first job fondly. It imbued her with a strong sense of purpose and an affinity for serving people. The year was 1971. In an effort to further improve its family–friendly image, fast–food giant McDonald’s launched an effective advertising campaign with a slogan that many beleaguered Americans took to heart: “You deserve a break today.” Business boomed as employees who were proud to be part of a growing company received top-notch training and opportunities to advance in their careers. By the next year, it was these prospects that intrigued Champlin as she was looking for her first job. As luck would have it, McDonald’s would indeed have a great deal to offer a serious 15–year–old who was in many ways hardwired for the professional world. Well–educated and professionally successful parents instilled in her a sense of personal responsibility and love of accomplishment in their three daughters, and none more so than Sheila, a gifted student, equestrian, voracious reader and aspiring writer who
photo by Brennan Wesley, Marketing
Incoming MUSC Chief Communications and Marketing Officer Sheila Champlin comes to the Charleston Lowcountry with a wealth of communications and marketing experience. would graduate from high school and head to college a year early. Accepting that position at a McDonald’s restaurant in Memphis, Tennessee, was a defining decision, as it was there she would learn many valuable skills that serve her today as MUSC’s first CCMO. It was also where she met the man who would eventually become a real estate attorney and her husband. “I learned at McDonald’s that customer service comes first – they are very good at that. I wish more organizations today had that ethic. It doesn’t mean you give the customer anything they ask for no matter what, it means you do what is appropriate to make the experience positive. And you try to think of ways you can make someone’s experience even better. And isn’t that what we as communicators do?” Even at 15, she seized every opportunity to learn as much as she could about all aspects of the business – much of which turned out to be important lessons that followed her throughout her life. “I felt like they allowed me to really take ownership of my role there,” she said. “I learned no job is too small. No work is insignificant if you are doing it in an honest, forthright and serious way, whether you are serving burgers, mopping the floor or picking up the parking lot. There
was nobody who thought it was beneath them to do any of it, because it made our store better, it made our customers’ experience better, it made our floors cleaner, so people knew we cared about cleanliness. They knew if you cared about the floors people walk on and the bathroom they used, you were going to care about cleanliness behind that counter where the food is being served. It’s about caring about the details of what you do, and in communications that’s what it’s all about.” In addition to everything else, she said, that job taught her how to communicate. And that valuable educational experience paid off for Champlin, as she continued on a trajectory of excelling in the field of communication. After graduating a year early from Immaculate Conception High School in Memphis, she headed to Saint Louis University. It was at the SLU campus that she told her parents she had plans to be a communications major. They laughed and said, “Sheila, you will change your major 25 times before you decide.” But change she did not. From the moment she was able to declare her major, she was bound and determined communications would be her future. During her junior year, she took a year off to study at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in Israel. “It was the experience of a lifetime,” she said. It was especially exciting for her to be there during such a historically significant period as Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin and Egyptian President Anwar Sadat worked toward peace, and Sadat was in Jerusalem for negotiations. That visit led to the peace treaty between Egypt and Israel that was signed 16 months later. It was also during the time when the TV miniseries “Roots” was released in Israel. Champlin’s mother had given her a hard copy of the book, and inscribed it with a personal message. Little did she know at that time who else would write a personal message in that very book. “Roots” author Alex Haley visited Hebrew University to give remarks about his work. Naturally, she attended. “Not only did I go to his lecture, I took my book and went to the King David Hotel, where I knew he’d be staying, and went to his room to ask him to autograph my book,” she said. And he did. Forever that will be a reminder of an important time in her life and a very special lifetime bond between her mother and her. Because that life-changing year remains so close to her heart, she wears a Star of David and a Chai (pronounced “Hi” with a hard H) charm on a chain to commemorate the experience. The trip allowed her to combine many of the things she loved dearly: traveling, hiking, studying history, meeting people from different cultures, even riding an Arabian stallion through the desert. “There was this wonderful Arab gentleman who had a stable and welcomed anyone who loved horses,” she
See Chief on page 7
The caTalysT, Feb. 5, 2016 7
chief
Continued from Page Six
photos provided
Mother and daughter, Sheila Champlin, left, with Paige Champlin, at a family reunion in Indiana.
Above photo: Sheila Champlin, center, is surrounded by family at a holiday dinner in Memphis. Joining her are daughter, Paige E. Champlin, from left, Michael S. Champlin and Richard Champlin. Seated from left are Ronda Newman-Champlin and Dr. Estella W. Smith, Sheila’s mom.
shared. “I remember flying through the desert on the back of a very fast horse named Samar. There’s a feeling you get when you can’t see anything but sand in front of you. It was elevating — it gave me the feeling that I could do anything.” Being able to ride horses while she was in Israel also felt like a special connection to home. With acreage, a barn and fenced area on the family property, she’d grown up with Ajax, her own horse, who was an important part of her life. “I read every Black Stallion book 18 times,” she said with a laugh. “I’d hike to the library to get books I’d already read. I had a subscription to The National Horseman. It was a major part of my life.” She returned from Israel and finished her senior year, earning her B.A. in communications, and was quickly off the next fall to the University of MissouriColumbia where she received her M.A. in journalism. But between earning degrees, it was an internship in the corporate communications department at the Fortune 500 Westinghouse Electric Company that exposed her to all that world had to offer. “It opened my eyes to business communications in a way I had never known before. I was only an intern for a summer, but I had my hand in a lot of different communication areas: public relations, community affairs, writing
communications and the critical role they will play in the ongoing success of our many strategic initiatives.” Champlin recognizes the importance of Cole’s commitment to effective communication strategies and appreciates the confidence he has placed in her. “President Cole saw integrated communications as critical to the continued mission of the Medical University. His goal is to realize improved strategic communications enterprisewide, and that for me is job one.” Four areas fall under the purview of the new CCMO: Public Relations; Enterprise Campaigns and University Communications; Web and Digital Resources; and MUSC Brand and MUSC Health Campaigns. With no blueprint in place and only a blank canvas on which to work, Champlin has been moving at full throttle. “I’m busy, but I’m loving it,” she said. The position is exactly what she thought it would be: fast–paced and challenging with lots of different projects ongoing simultaneously. “It allows me to dive in and use the skill set I brought with me and start making connections with people — which is what an organization really is — people. Getting to know their needs, their challenges, getting to know the opportunities to help and support them, that’s why I’m here.”
press releases, drafting remarks for people. It allowed me to get a taste of the variety that there is in this field.” Prior to that, because she had aspirations of becoming a writer for a newspaper, magazine or television station, she said she had been thinking from only a journalistic standpoint. But now she was starting to think about the corporate environment. “I had a choice,” she recalled. “I could go into advocacy journalism, on the corporate side, or into traditional journalism on the newspaper or broadcast side. I chose advocacy journalism, and I have not been sorry for one minute. It has allowed me to work in numerous fields and to carry my skills to different job opportunities, and most importantly, to learn, learn, learn at each one.” According to President David Cole, M.D., FACS, her unique skill set made her the ideal candidate to lead MUSC communications into the future. “We count ourselves as extremely fortunate that Sheila, with her breadth of knowledge and wealth of experience, will be leading this important dimension of the organization,” he said. “Already she has made a powerful impact, adding her voice and expertise to the work of the senior leadership team. We could not be more excited about her vision for cohesive and well–branded
Exactly one month in, she’s pleased with how things are playing out thus far. “The most exciting part of what I’m doing is finding people so open. People are very receptive to what this position can be for MUSC. Not just for them and their unit, their office, their department, but also what it can mean for the institution to have a communicator who is part of senior leadership, assessing information, providing counsel, and one of the contributors in decision making. Dr. Cole recognizes that having a strategic communications professional who is connected with them, part of the leadership dialogue and understands business challenges, can mean a tremendous amount as this institution moves forward.” Currently, she is working toward the seamless integration of several disparate areas of the university to ensure all key university communicators responsible for messaging, marketing and branding are singing from the same sheet of music. “The CCMO’s office will be able to bring the communicators who are handling PR, the web, brand and campaigns all under one umbrella so they can talk on a regular basis, collaborate more closely on projects and share more information. You can only
See Chief on page 10
8 The caTalysT, Feb. 5, 2016
2016 Ernest E. Just Scientific Symposium set for Feb. 26 James E. Clyburn Research Center Auditorium
Part 1: Introduction 8 to 9 a.m. Registration and Breakfast — Entrance to Auditorium 9 to 9:10 a.m. — Opening by Mark Sothmann, Ph.D., Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost; Deborah Deas, M.D., professor and interim dean, MUSC College of Medicine Greetings by Paula Traktman, Ph.D., professor and dean, MUSC College of Graduate Studies 9:10 to 9:15 a.m. — Paul Adams, Ph.D., Co-chairman, International UG Advisors Committee, Chairman, International Advanced Degree Committee; Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. 9:15 to 9:45 a.m. — IMPACT Title: "E. E. Just’s Broad Influence on the
Development of Modern Biology” by W. Malcolm Byrnes, Ph.D., associate professor, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Howard University Just Symposium 9:45 to 10:25 a.m. — Title: "Why where you live determines how long you live" by Just Symposium Keynote Speaker Garth Graham, M.D., president, Aetna Foundation and associate professor of Medicine, University of Connecticut 10:25 to 10:40 a.m. — Break
12:30 to 2 p.m. — Breakout Sessions Campus tour for visiting students, Undergraduate Advisors meet with MUSC College Admissions Officers Lunch Part III Science (poster sessions; science presentations) 2:05 to 2:50 p.m. — Title: “Retinoic acid controls urothelial progenitors during development, homeostasis and regeneration” by Cathy Mendelsohn, Ph.D., associate professor of Urology, Pathology & Cell Biology (Institute of Human Nutrition) and Genetics & Development, Columbia University
11 to 11:30 a.m. —Title: Undergraduate student presenter TBD
3:05 to 3:50 p.m. — Title: “Making "Mini-Kidneys" in a Dish: The Path from Stem Cell to Nephron” by Joseph V. Bonventre, M.D., Ph.D., Samuel A. Levine Professor of Medicine; chief, Renal Division and Division of Biomedical Engineering, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School; and past president, American Society of Nephrology
11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. — Panel Discussion (question and answers with speakers)
To review the program or for information, visit http://www.musc.edu/grad/just/index.html.
10:40 to 10:55 a..m. — Title: “FTY720 Induces Necroptosis by Regulating Ceramide Signaling at the Plasma Membrane” by Rose Ndeto, Ph.D. candidate, MUSC Department of Biochemistry
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MUSC Diversity and Inclusion’s
Engagement
As we step into Black History Month, this is an opportune time to reflect on the vital importance of diversity and inclusion. For MUSC, diversity and inclusion is not bounded by ethnicity alone. Our focus encompasses all aspects that make us unique — differences in skills and Burnham abilities, gender, rural versus urban upbringings, cultural heritage, sexual orientation, world views, geographic genesis and so much more. As the chief diversity officers for MUSC,
enhancing communication and promoting engagement. Like any group with differing life experiences and perspectives, we don’t always agree; however, at MUSC we strive to remain reasonable and open to civil discourse and to the respectful airing of Gunn opposing views. And while there is still work to be done on our campus and in our institution in the area of diversity and inclusion, our leadership team continues to move our organization forward
we have been engaged in diversity and inclusion initiatives for a combined 56 years. A wholehearted commitment to diversity and inclusion requires serious, ongoing, strategic thought, plus planning, action and vigilance. It starts at the top where strategic priorities, resource allocation and ultimate accountability live. Leadership, vision and a no–excuses attitude are hallmarks of substantive diversity and inclusion programs. We are proud to report that our diversity and inclusion efforts have attained the right level of priority under the leadership of MUSC President David J. Cole, M.D., and
toward measurable change that more accurately reflects the rich fabric of our society. Every member of the community is accountable for contributing to the work, and our progress is palpable. A few days ago, we were notified that MUSC had been named an honoree for our work in diversity and inclusion by PR News. We were also recently named a leader in lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) health care equality by the National LGBT Healthcare Quality Index for 2016. MUSC continues to seek out the brightest minds and most talented professionals available
MUSC Health Executive Director and CEO Patrick Cawley, M.D., and with the stalwart support of the board of trustees. Through our President’s Advisory Council on Diversity and Inclusion, which convened nearly 18 months ago, we have renewed our commitment to welcoming the voices and viewpoints of diverse members of the Charleston community,
to join our academic, clinical and research enterprises. Each member of our community is valued and respected for the uniqueness of thought and richness of life perspective that they bring to the classroom, laboratory, boardroom and clinical setting. Each person must strive to understand and be understood in a culture that revolves around MUSC core values —
compassion, collaboration, respect, integrity and innovation. Roy E. Disney of The Walt Disney Company said, “It’s not hard to make decisions when you know what your values are.” And Nelson Mandela said, “It always seems impossible, until it’s done.” The MUSC family will continue to advance our commitment to diversity and inclusion. To achieve the full measure of success that our institution and the greater Charleston community deserve, it’s the right thing to do. q Willette S. Burnham, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor & University Chief Diversity Officer Darby Children’s Research Institute (CRI) Room 104 A/B 173 Ashley Avenue, MSC 502 Charleston, SC 29425-5020 Office: (843) 792–1072 burnham@musc.edu q Anton J. Gunn, MSW
Chief Diversity Officer & Executive Director of Community Health Innovation MUSC Health 169 Ashley Avenue Suite 205, University Hospital, MSC 332 Charleston, SC 29425-5020 Office: (843) 792–2621 Fax: (843) 792–6682 gunn@musc.edu
10 The caTalysT, Feb. 5, 2016
MUSC joins healthy academic communities, hearts challenge One in three deaths among women each year is attributable to heart disease and stroke – which is more than all cancers combined. Each February the Office of Health Promotion along with the American Heart Association and Sodexo aim to raise awareness of these staggering statistics and provide opportunities with activities all month long to help improve these numbers. It is estimated that 80 percent of cardiac events can be prevented with education and lifestyle changes. To kick off the month, staff and students are invited to wear red and “Go Red For Women” this Friday, February 5th to share the importance of heart health. Check out the listings below for more information on what’s available to make healthier hearts.
Employee Wellness Center
q February’s Mindful Challenge — “Know your numbers, Show your heart some love.” Take the initial survey at musc.edu/ohp/
chief
results. Free day pass to monthlymindfulchallenge. MUSC Wellness Center html Complete the final for all participants. Sign up survey at the end of the month online at musc.edu/ohp/ for a chance to share your musc-moves/employee-fitnessstory in our “Spotlight on signup.html Wellness” series. q Be one in a million hearts: q Worksite Screening: Participate in the BHAC Wednesday, Feb. 24 at the National Challenge — learn Wellness Center Auditorium. the ABC’s of cardiovascular This screening, valued at disease. Prizes will be awarded about $350, is available to to the top three institutions employees with the State with the most participants. Health Plan (including MUSC Susan Johnson In addition, MUSC Office of Health Plan) at no charge Health Promotion will give for the basic test in 2016. away a Fitbit in a random drawing of all Employees and spouses without this MUSC students and staff who complete insurance can participate for $47. For the Million Hearts Module. To enter information, including updated pricing for a chance to win, email certificate for optional tests, register online at of completion to johsusa@musc.edu. http://www.musc.edu/ohp/employeeFor information about Million Hearts, wellness/worksite-screening.html. q MUSC Employee Fitness Series Class: visit millionhearts.osu.edu, for more information on the MUSC Challenge, Cardio Power from 4:15 to 4:45 p.m., email johnsusa@musc.edu. Wednesday, Feb.17, Wellness Center. 1. Visit http://go.osu.edu/millionhearts Try this free, higher–end fitness level 2. Select “BHAC Million Hearts class that uses intense cardio intervals Challenge” from the course list with strength training to maximize
Continued from Page Seven
achieve maximum positive impact by bringing people into closer communication with one another. When one hand doesn’t know what the other hand is doing, that’s a recipe for fracturing, duplicating efforts and wasting resources. This organization has a leadership team that realizes being fractured is not the way to reach what MUSC and its partner hospitals are trying to achieve.” And while there is much to be done, Champlin feels blessed to work with dynamic people she can count on and have an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on strategic communications. “I get up every day thinking how lucky I am, how fortunate my path has been to be able to arrive at where all of us together can make such a difference for this institution. As individuals, we have decided we want to be part of this institution, which is on a quest to get to a very important place — Imagine 2020.” At a time when organizational communications can be a whirlwind of urgency and pressure, Champlin leads with equanimity, always seeming to take away the nugget of good in every situation. And with the long hours she is putting in, she still makes a point to take care of herself and take in the charm and beauty of Charleston. “I really enjoy walking the Ravenel Bridge,” she said. “The exercise, the beauty, the time to think. It’s really cathartic to be in your own head. It’s
Health at work
a problem–solving place — a place for solutions and creative ideas.” She is also fortunate to have her best friend living with her. While she waits for the rest of her family to move from Tennessee, her 75–year–old mother was able to make the move with her, and the two are having a splendid time getting to know the area together. Still, being away from her husband and daughter is particularly difficult. Nearly every morning, Champlin wakes Paige up via iPhone or FaceTime, and the family stays in close communication, hoping it’s only a shortterm situation. On Valentine’s Day, Sheila and Michael will celebrate their 20–year marriage. And to think, both personally and professionally, it all started at that McDonald’s in Memphis.
Family Fund accepting applications The MUSC Family Fund, sponsored by the Yearly Employee Support Campaign, is currently accepting grant applications until March 31. The application should include name, department phone, name of project and amount of funding requested. Include a brief summary of the project or program and how funding will benefit MUSC’s mission. For information, email mcluen@musc. edu or visit www.academicdepartments.musc.edu/ development/help/YESgrant html.
3. Log in if previous user or select “create new account.” 4. Select MUSC from the Affiliated Organization drop down list. 4. New users will receive a confirmation email containing an activation link. Once the link is clicked, the enrollment process is complete. q Chair massages: Free massages are offered to employees midday Wednesdays. Check broadcast messages for new locations and times. q Farmers Markets: Fresh fruits and vegetables are available from local farmers Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Horseshoe. q Adventure Out: The Adventure Out program offers free fitness classes in City of Charleston parks and on the MUSC Campus to help you turn over a new leaf and discover the benefits of green exercise. Join MUSC Wellness Center’s Katie Blaylock on Saturday, February 13th at 9:00am in Hampton Park for a FREE yoga class. For more information, visit http://www.musc.edu/ohp/ adventure-out.
The caTalysT, Feb. 5, 2016 11
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C-3PO takes next step to precision meds By J. Ryne Danielson daniejer@musc.edu
L
ewis Frey, Ph.D., and his colleagues are taking their big data pilot study to the next level. Having worked with the Office of Veterans Affairs to develop a big data system capable of gleaning useful information from millions of patient records, last year they deployed that system at MUSC. This year, the team has received funding from the National Institutes of Health to deploy the same system at Christiana Care, a Delawarebased network of private, non-profit hospitals. This grant renewal marks the next step on MUSC’s journey toward a Big Data to Knowledge (BD2K) grant from the NIH. The data system Frey developed, along with Leslie Lenert, M.D., MUSC’s chief research information officer, is called Clinical Personal Pragmatic Predictions of Outcomes, or C–3PO. Using a statistical technique called cluster analysis to reveal hidden patterns in very large datasets, C–3PO allows doctors to track patients’ trajectories of care for stroke, heart attack and other diseases. The specific statistical model Frey uses was developed by researchers Patrick Mauldin, Ph.D., and William Moran, M.D. The risk profiles they created using that model have been very accurate at MUSC, but Frey is eager to see how the data compares with what they see in Delaware. “Does the risk model generalize beyond South Carolina? How well does C-3PO interface with their systems? Those are the questions we want to answer,” he said. South Carolina has a higher minority population than many other parts of the country. It also has a higher percentage of its population living in poverty and sits on the buckle of the “stroke belt,” an 11-state region with an unusually high incidence of stroke and cardiovascular disease. “Our model takes demographics and social determinants into consideration,” Frey said. “But it’s an open question how much those factors influence our patients’ risk profiles in other states.” Christiana Care has roughly four and a half times the patient population of MUSC. More importantly, the demographics of Delaware reflect very closely the demographics of the United States. The approach generalizes to a new, larger population, one that looks more like the country as a whole. It will go a long way toward proving the feasibility of the project on a much larger scale. Frey hopes that one day this model with be applicable on a national level, allowing doctors to better tailor care to individual patients, bringing in not only patient data but also genetic and environmental information to build a complete picture of a patient over time. Such precision medicine initiatives may revolutionize health care in the near future by empowering patients and enabling their doctors to develop more individualized
photo provided
The mobile app for Clinical Personal Pragmatic Predictions of Outcomes (C-3PO) provides researchers a way to visualize complex data. treatments. “Being able to predict which patients are high risk is incredibly important,” he explained. “If we’re able to identify these patients early, we can determine the proper treatments and implement them early.” In other words, in the future there will be no need to wait until a patient has a heart attack. Frey hopes systems like his will help doctors diagnose and treat such conditions before they strike. The current focus of the pilot study is to identify patients at risk for readmission after being discharged from the hospital. “Hospitals face penalties if a patient is readmitted within 30 days of being discharged for certain clinical conditions, because they shouldn’t be,” Frey said. “They should be going home, they should be healthy and their conditions should be well-managed.” Spurred in part by President Obama’s health care law, which changes how some hospitals get paid, this effort to reduce readmissions is intended both to cut costs and improve patient care. One of the lessons Frey learned from deploying this system at MUSC was the need for a way to interpret the meaning hidden behind the numbers. “We developed a mobile app to visualize the data,” he said. “Patrick and Bill have put their risk model in place to use in the clinic to see who is at high risk of coming back for additional hospital utilization. They’re able to follow up with those patients to make sure they’re getting the treatments they need so they don’t require an emergency hospitalization.” If the C-3PO model shows promise in Delaware, which he thinks it will, Frey will use the data and experience gathered over the last two years to go after the BD2K grant. “The point of these pilots is to ultimately get a Big Data to Knowledge grant,” he said. “From there, we’d like to see this model adopted by a collection of university hospitals and hospital systems around the country.”
12 The caTalysT, Feb. 5, 2016
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