IT TAKES A VILLAGE
GLO B AL M E DICAL B RIG A D ES • T H E S EA RC H S OC I ET Y
GLOBAL MEDICAL BRIGADES. Twenty-five undergraduate students from Jefferson’s (Philadelphia University + Thomas Jefferson University) Global Medical Brigades traveled to the rural towns of Morocelí and Potrerillos in Honduras this past spring as part of an immersion program focused on addressing the lack of quality health care for a significant portion of the country’s population. The brigade provided basic medical and dental treatment to 655 individuals, distributed
hygiene packs, donated clothes, built ecostoves for families and taught an elementary school about the importance of recycling. At the rural health clinics, the students helped triage patients, worked with physicians on physical assessments and diagnoses, and filled prescriptions under the supervision of pharmacists. Healthcare professionals taught the students the basic practices of patient documentation, vital signs procedures, dental and gynecology procedures, and the intensity of the clinical doctor-patient, problem-solving mechanism.
THE SEARCH SOCIETY. Established in 2011, the Theodore C. Search Society recognizes individuals who demonstrate leadership through philanthropy. Named in honor of Philadelphia University’s founder, the Search Society is the institution’s most prestigious donor society, honoring the steadfast commitment of the institution’s most loyal supporters. Donors who contribute $1,000 or more (or $100+ for recent graduates) during the fiscal year automatically become Search Society members. This year, the Ralph A. Stanziola ’53 Award was established with a Search Society gift from Mr. Stanziola’s family. The award is presented to graduating senior engineering students based on outstanding capstone projects/presentations. The inaugural award was presented to Remy Victoria ’17 and Gianna Bliss ’17 at a special award ceremony. “As the student with the highest overall GPA in engineering, Gianna demonstrated incredible dedication to academic achievement and excellence in scholarly pursuits,” says Jonathan Spindel, director of 8 • FALL 2017
In preparation for the journey, students raised funds to support program costs and airfare. They also collected donations to purchase medicine and fill the hygiene packs with toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental floss, combs, shampoo, soap and more. Students appreciated the support from the College of Science, Health and the Liberal Arts alumni, who generously contributed $3,000 toward the medical and dental supplies provided in these packs.
the engineering program (pictured with students). “She is an exemplary student and professional presence in our program.” Jonathan holds equal admiration for Remy. “As an active member and executive of the Engineering Club, Remy provides leadership and guidance to the program.” This year, 274 Search Society members gave more than $4 million to support scholarships, academic programs, capital projects, athletics and more.
An electronic version of The Search Society Honor Roll of Donors was delivered this year. If you did not receive your copy or if you wish to join the Search Society, contact Melissa Garonzik, director of alumni relations and annual giving, at 215.951.2186 or GaronzikM@PhilaU.edu.