The AUA Campus Update

THE CAMPUS UPDATE DECEMBER

2020

DETERMINATION TO SUCCEED 2020 VALEDICTORIAN JONATHAN MIKHAIL MD

| ISSUE 17 |

CONTENTS 14-15 The Centre for Research and Eveluation

16-20 AUA in the Community

21-26 Campus Events

27-31 AUA RohrMan 2020 Highlights

3 From the Provost 4-5 From the Editor AUA Alumni on the Frontlines 6 Renowned Scholar Passes On Tribute to former Provost Dr. Seymour Schwartz

7-8 Global MD & Nanotechnology 9 AUA College of Medicine Honors 2020 Graduates

10 Faculty & Student Publications

11 Fostering a Culture of Wellness and Inclusion

12 Healthy Perspectives

31 RohrMan Olympic Champion French Triathlete Aurelien Raphael

13 Vitamin Sea

By Indra Walker

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From the Provost

Just when you think, you have seen everything, a pandemic strikes. Disruptive is clearly an understatement, and it is not over yet. It has been amazing to watch our graduates, residents and students step up and do their duty to take care of patients stricken with the disease.

The disruption hit all of us. Clinical students had their rotations cancelled; Exams were cancelled for both Basic Science and Clinical students. The Antigua government closed campus and the entire Island locked down. The faculty put our curriculum up online over a ten-day period. Exams were rescheduled.

On and on the disruption continued, and still it continues. We lost fellow workers, family members, financial stability, and that precious sense of being safe. Students, faculty, staff and others have worked together to lessen the chaos, and largely they have succeeded. Can we fix it all? Can we prevent the suffering? Can we get back to “normal”? Probably not, but we can make things better and we are.

It is the we of our AUA family that is making the difference here. What can we do? We can help and comfort each other; we can change what we can to help. We can take care of each other and our families. We can and will get through this.

We will be forever changed by it, but it will make us better students, better teachers, better workers, better friends and loved ones, and most importantly, better doctors.

This is the crucible where we will be forged into better humans. I know we will be successful. After all, this is the American University of Antigua, and we will persevere. I am proud to be a part of this University and of the good work that you all do.

ROBERT MALLIN, MD UNIVERSITY PROVOST

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From the Editor Dear Readers, We did it! Despite numerous challenges resulting from the Covid-19 pandemic, AUA has taken significant steps towards technological growth thanks to to the mammoth effort that successfully transitioned the basic science curriculum to online platforms. Kudos to our faculty, technical staff and everyone else who helped make this possible in such an unbelievably short time. Thanks as well to our students for their patience as the inevitable glitches were worked out.

The pandemic has impacted all of us, the uncertainty and fear has become embedded in our subconscious but as always there is hope on the horizon! 'Operation Warp Speed' has successfully resulted in the development of the Covid-19 vaccine in under a year. Obvious questions were raised questions regarding the efficacy of the vaccine which became available for emergency use on December 18, 2020. According to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Dr. Stephen Hahn in a recent press release, "FDA is globally respected for its scientific standards of vaccine safety, effectiveness and quality. The agency provides scientific and regulatory advice to vaccine developers and undertakes a rigorous evaluation of the scientific information through all phases of clinical trials, which continues after a vaccine has been approved by FDA or authorized for emergency use."

Hopefully the foregoing helps to calm any fears. Director of the University Park Health Center Dr. Kimberly Mallin has already indicated interest in making the vaccine available on campus. As I mentioned, there is always hope!

All in all, the AUA family has a lot to be grateful for and much to be proud of. We have reason to be proud that our mission to "advance the field of medicine and lead the next generation of physicians and healthcare professionals to respond to global healthcare needs" is being achieved AND recognized.

AUA alumni featured in a United Nations Academic Impact (UNAI) article is glaring proof of this. In the article, Dr. Vamsi Nukala (Class or 2012) and Dr. Dr. Bilal Khan (Class of 2011), credited AUA for equipping them with the training and knowledge to respond to the global health crisis.

Gerald J. Wargo Jr., Associate Vice President of Enrollment Management, Admissions and Marketing, was quoted as saying “With the challenges and changes of this critical time, it is important to observe how COVID19 leaves its impact on medical education and the careers of medical students.”

Dr. Robert Mallin, University Provost, underlined the added value of our graduates. “Our alumni make us all proud in that besides being committed and outstanding doctors, efficient in their respective fields of specialization and with the required theoretical and practical knowledge, they also have empathy and respect for their fellow humans”. No doubt our alumni are drawing heavily on their training to guide their every decision in this new frontier of medicine!

The year 2020 has certainly proven that we are capable of rising to the challenge. As we venture forth into 2021 with renewed hope for a brighter future, I pray that the new year brings you much peace, contentment and appreciation for the simple joys experienced each day.

SHARON BRUSCH EDITOR

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Dr. Chase Parsons

Dr. Christina Thomas

Dr. Eugene Perepada

Dr. Sohana Ahmed

Dr. Vamsi Nukala

Dr. Rashmi Jadhav

Dr. Ayoosh Kakkar

Dr. Kandria Ledesma

Dr. Bilal Khan THE CAMPUS UPDATE

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RENOWNED SCHOLAR PASSES ON On August 28, 2020 the medical community lost a renowned surgeon, researcher, scholar, author and spokesman for the profession. Dr. Seymour Schwartz, former Provost of AUA was the Editor in Chief of the Schwartz Principles of Surgery which was published in 1969, and is now in its 11th Edition.

He was a member of a number of prestigious American societies and organizations and was elected president for a number of those including The American Society of Clinical Surgery, The American Surgical Association, and The American College of Surgeons.

Dr. Schwartz is best known for his contributions to surgical literature. He has authored over 250 scientific articles in refereed journals and several textbooks including: Surgical Diseases of the Liver, Tropical Surgery, Atlas of Hepatic Tumors and Focal Lesions, and Surgical Reflections. He edited the journal of Contemporary Surgery for 28 years, the Yearbook of Surgery for 22 years and the Journal of the American College of Surgeons for 10 years.

In addition to the above he had an avid interest in Cartography and authored several books on the subject including The Mapping of America, This Land is Your Land: The Geographic Evolution of the United States, Mis-Mapping of America, and Putting "America" on the Map. He also served on the Boards of the National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution, and the Geography and Map Division of the Library of Congress.

Seymour I. Schwartz, M.D.

Dr. Schwartz was the recipient of a number of awards and accolades for his scholarly accomplishments including the Distinguished Service Award from the American College of Surgeons, the Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of Rochester, and the Medal of Honor from King Juan Carlos of Spain.

Dr. Schwartz became AUA's Provost in 2006 and also served as Professor of Surgery. Neal Simon, President of AUA stated, “On an Educational level Dr. Schwartz’s importance to AUA cannot be overstated. He was one of the pillars upon which our educational program and its goal of bringing diversity to the medical profession stands. AUA is dedicated to building on the foundation that Dr. Schwartz was so instrumental in establishing.

On a personal level, those of us who knew him will miss his wisdom, his charm, his kindness and most of all his friendship.”

Dr. Schwartz is survived by his sons, Richard and Dr. David Schwartz.

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GLOBAL MD AND NANOTECHNOLOGY

Global MD Professor of Nanotechnology and Health Dr. Don DiMarzio

At least one of the Global MD professors is featured in each issue of the Campus Update. In January this year I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Don DiMarzio. Dr. DiMarzio has a PhD in Physics from Rutgers University, a Bachelor of Science in Physics from Stony Brook University and is the Global MD Professor of Nanotechnology Materials and Applications.

Dr. DiMarzio was quite gracious, he patiently responded to my questions in language simple enough for anyone to understand, I can see why students enjoy his class.

Did you always have an interest in physics?

Yes, from a very early age. I was probably what you would call a nerd these days, always very fascinated by physics and eager to learn more. In 5th grade they called me Einstein. I wish I was as smart as Einstein! I actually did a post doctorate at the US national laboratory department of energy Brookhaven before joining Northrop Grumman.

What led you to nanotechnology?

I guess my interest in composite materials which I was able to explore during my stint with Northrop Grumman. Most scientists did not realize that bulk material had ranges of sizes and properties which made it ideal for making composite structures that are stronger and more lightweight and less costly.

Can you tell me a bit about your research with NG NEXT? NG Next is the advanced arm of Northrop Grumman and I did basic research in a variety of disciplines. Nanomaterials, directed assembly of 2D materials, sensors and advanced mechanics including computer switches that mimic the human brain like computational neural networks etc. which makes facial recognition and other capabilities possible. (continued on next page) THE CAMPUS UPDATE

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I understand that wearable healthcare devices, 3d printed organ replacements, medical imaging and the like are currently being developed?

Well I truly cannot speak to actual organ replacements but definitely structural ‘scaffolding’ for cell regeneration and bone regrowth has been successful. Wearable health care devices like Fitbit and heart/blood pressure monitors utilize artificial intelligence for enhanced capability. Medical imaging has moved from using a simple color stain to utilizing nanoparticles to enhance visibility of organs within the body and present a clearer picture of problematic areas.

Truth be told, a lot of what you read about the research can be a bit farfetched. Some ideas trend intermittently depending on how successful the research is. Moderate levels of success sometimes do not make the headlines but that does not mean that nothing is accomplished; for instance, beyond medical use, commercial composite structures also utilize these types of materials. Most skincare products like sunblock lotions contain composite nanoparticles to absorb the UV rays of the sun and protect your skin. Selfdecontamination surfaces and materials made of silver nanoparticles are manufactured for various protective purposes. Filtration systems and computer-aided health delivery systems also utilize nanotechnology.

Would you say some basic aspects of imaging technology is included in current medical curriculum?

I really don’t know to what degree sensor technology for imaging is taught. It may actually be a good idea to include some basic technological knowledge especially with regards to the limitations of the existing imaging technology.

If med students understood the basic concepts of physics, chemistry and biology, sensor technology and how imagining actually works, they can determine which method should be utilized depending on the circumstance.

Having this basic technical knowledge would certainly enhance a doctor’s ability to make a quick diagnosis. Since in some cases false negatives or positives are possible and most of these devices are about 70% accurate.

It is quite possible that in the near future, smaller handheld devices would be used – think about how convenient that would be especially in Third World locations where access to CT scans etc. are limited or nonexistent. Maybe the technology would advance to such a stage that anyone can use it, not just doctors.

Is this something you would include or recommend be included in your course?

I think it’s a possibility, it is certainly an interesting idea to include diagnostic imaging science with practical applications to make it engaging and add some statistics as well. This kind of knowledge becomes useful especially for those working with organizations like the UN in Third World locations where resources are limited.

I would ask what you do for fun but I imagine research keeps you busy, what are you currently working on?

I am currently involved in research on electromagnetic materials, nanotechnology and materials interaction. As a hobby I also dabble in fundamentals in quantum theory whenever I have the time.

Dr. DiMarzio is currently the Senior Scientist at Northrop Grumman Corporation; The Technologist in Residence at the Brookhaven National Laboratory Upton, NY, and Adjunct Professor at Stony Brook University.

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MANHATTAN, N.Y. - July 23, 2020 - PRLog -- The latest group of graduates from American University of Antigua (AUA) College of Medicine officially became doctors on Friday, June 7 at AUA's 2020 Commencement Ceremony. Held as a virtual event for the first time ever due the COVID-19 pandemic, this online celebration of AUA graduates' achievements—broadcast on both YouTube and Facebook—drew hundreds of family members, friends, and other well-wishers online to watch the members of the Class of 2020 officially become doctors of medicine.

The keynote speaker for the event was Seymour Schwartz, MD, a world-renowned surgeon, Provost of AUA's College of Medicine, and the author of Principles of Surgery, a medical textbook used in countless medical school curricula that is considered by many to be a seminal textbook on the practice of surgery.

Several university leaders from AUA spoke at the event, including Neal Simon, University President; Robert Mallin, MD, University Provost; and Peter Bell, MD, Vice President of Global Medical Education and Executive Dean of Clinical Sciences.

"There is nothing more exciting, and satisfying, than seeing the smiling faces of hardworking AUA medical students who have reached the end of a long, challenging road," Dr. Mallin said. "Though I would have loved to have seen our graduates in person, it was still great to participate in this virtual event. Congratulations to all of our new MDs."

"There is nothing more exciting, and satisfying, than seeing the smiling faces of hardworking AUA medical students who have reached the end of a long, challenging road," Dr. Mallin said. "Though I would have loved to have seen our graduates in person, it was still great to participate in this virtual event.

Congratulations to all of our new MDs." Alumni guest speaker Swaimam Singh, MD—a cardiology fellow at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center/RWJ Barnabas Health in Newark, NJ—and this year's valedictorian, Jonathan Mikhail, MD, also delivered remarks at the ceremony.

As he reflected on his time spent at AUA, Dr. Mikhail spoke about the resilience, grit, and drive that drove him and his fellow classmates to succeed."That determination to succeed is the brand each of us will carry on our foreheads as we go down our respective paths," Dr. Mikhail said. "It's just one of the reasons I can stand here today and say, from the bottom of my heart, that I'm a proud graduate of AUA." These newly minted physicians couldn't be together physically due to COVID-19, attendees instead revisited their memories of AUA through a slideshow depicting the friendships and bonds students formed during their time in Antigua and beyond. https://www.prlog.org/12831366-aua-college-ofmedicine-honors-2020-graduates-with-virtualcommencement-ceremony.html THE CAMPUS UPDATE

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FACULTY PUBLICATIONS NOHA HUSSIEN, MD “Cationic niosome-based hBMP7 gene transfection of neuronal precursor NT2 cells to reduce the migration of glioma cells in vitro

KIMBERLY N. MALLIN, MD & ROBERT MALLIN, MD Danny Wedding/Margaret L. Stuber: Behavior and Medicine, 6th ed. (ISBN 9781616765606) © 2020 Hogrefe Publishing. Addiction Chapter 10. Pg 125.

Noha Attia, Mohamed Mashal, Santiago Grijalvo, Ramón Eritja, Gustavo Puras, Jose Luis Pedraz. Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology 53, 101219”

STUDENT P U B L“ I C A T I O N S YASH BHAGAT Garske, K.M., Pan, D.Z., Miao, Z., Bhagat, Y.V., et al. Reverse gene–environment interaction approach to identify variants influencing body-mass index in humans. Nat Metab 1, 630–642 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1038/s42255-0190071-6 Benhammou, J.N., Ko, A., Alvarez, M., Kaikkonen, M.U., Rankin, C., Garske, K.M., Padua D., Bhagat, Y., et al. Novel lipid long intervening noncoding RNA, oligodendrocyte maturation-associated long intergenic noncoding RNA, regulates the liver steatosis gene stearoyl-coenzyme A desaturase as an enhancer RNA. Hepatology Communications, 3(10), 1356-1372 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1002/hep4.1413

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F O S TER I N G A C U L T U R E O F

WELLNESS & INCLUSION Dr. Kim Mallin Director, University Park Health Centre Associate Dean, Wellness and Inclusion

The stressors of practicing, teaching, and learning medicine have increased, and AUA is answering the call by expanding the wellness initiatives that began in 2016 by focusing on inclusion and student engagement.

Dr. Kim Mallin, the health center's Director and Associate Dean of Wellness and Inclusion, along with her assistant Dawn Roberts have been working diligently on several wellness initiatives to benefit faculty, students, and staff.

Although Covid-19 has forced many physical wellness activities and events to be transitioned online, the centre continues to provide physical classes while working closely with the gym. Plans are also in place to provide up to date tools and resources on social determinants of health and health disparities to students, faculty, and staff.

Dawn Roberts Assoc. Director, Wellness, Inclusion & Student Affairs

American University of Antigua College of Medicine University Park Health Centre Jabberwock Road Coolidge, Antigua WI Tel: 268-484-8900 Ext: 1562 Email: clinic@auamed.net

In addition to the above, construction of a purposebuilt Wellness Centre is nearing completion. The new centre will include dedicated areas for exercise; including a new gym with new equipment, and an expanded area for both the Health Centre and the Counseling Center.

The ultimate goal of the initiative is to foster a culture of wellness, inclusion, and engagement among students, faculty, and staff.

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Dr. Olsheath Bowen, Dr. Bharati Balachandran, Dr. Kimberly Mallin and Dr. Leslie Walwyn Despite recent challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the AUA Healthy Perspectives team has continued to produce, thoughtprovoking, and relevant content. It is perhaps perceptiveness that led us to discuss the topic of infectious diseases in January of this year with Dr. James Wilson.

Dr. Wilson is one of the world’s leading experts in operational biosurveillance and infectious disease forecasting and is also an esteemed visiting professor of the AUA Global MD Program. In hindsight, his observations at the time regarding the outbreak in Wuhan China and the importance of countries becoming a part of a ‘wider consortium of nations’ seems spot-on.

By March of this year the outbreak was declared a pandemic and Cohost Dr. Leslie Walwyn returned to

host a panel of health professionals for a round of discussions. These first few episodes were aimed at dispelling incorrect notions about the virus and alerting our viewers of what to expect in the coming months.

Guests included Professor and Microbiologist Dr. Bharati Balachandran and Associate Dean of Wellness and Inclusion Dr. Kimberly Mallin both of AUA, Dr. Cheri Tulloch, Obstetrician-Gynecologist along with Mt. St. John’s Medical Center Head of Emergency Medicine, Dr. Olsheath Bowen and Head of the Pediatrics Department, Dr. Shivon Bell-Jarvis.

The focus on COVID-19 continued into June and July 2020 with additional episodes hosted by show creator and Executive Producer Vernon Solomon, along with Cohosts Dr. Sonya Ford and Dr. Leslie Walwyn. Topics discussed included the evolution of the virus and how it is spread, concerns for vulnerable

populations, and how to utilize personal protective equipment to prevent the spread of the virus.

Dr. James Knight provided a wealth of information regarding what can be expected in terms of government-mandated protocols as well as restrictions on overseas travel. Ms. Koren Norton, Social Worker, and Dr. Sonya Ford, AUA’s Director of Counseling, explored the effects of stress on mental health and how quarantine can impact recovering addicts and victims of abuse. A variety of other interesting episodes will be added to the lineup in the coming months.

AUA Healthy Perspectives and the topics we cover each week are more relevant now than ever before, so stay tuned! New episodes air on ABS TV each week.

Like and follow us on Facebook and YouTube.

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Vitamin

SEA by: Indra Walker

Let’s face it, if you live in Antigua it becomes extremely difficult to decide which beach to go to on weekends. 52 weeks in a year and 365 beaches to choose from? Unheard of! How many beaches have you discovered so far? Do you have a favorite?

I think that amid the hustle and bustle of life we sometimes take our idyllic island life for granted but recently access to some of the world's most beautiful beaches has become our constant source of comfort. With the recent restrictions placed on us to stop the spread of COVID-19, the beach is the perfect escape. The calming effect of sea, sun and sand is a constant amid these changing times.

Looking for a beach that is perfect for a family get-together or a solo getaway? This one is perfect! It’s located on the southeast coast of the island equipped with chairs and tables, a playground for the children, restaurants and other great amenities. If you guessed Pigeon Point beach, you are absolutely correct! Pigeon Point is a 5minute drive from the historic Nelson’s Dockyard. It’s perfect for snorkeling, swimming, picnics, scenery or just laying out.

Visitors and locals frequent this beach because of the relative calmness and shallowness of the water. Usually at this time of the year, quite a few yachts are docked making it the most picturesque view especially with the beautiful hillsides in the background. So, if you’ve never been to Pigeon Point beach in Antigua & Barbuda be sure to add it to your to-do-list! It’s a natural remedy for well-being as well as that other vitamin – Sea! THE CAMPUS UPDATE

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THE CENTRE FOR RESEARCH AND EVALUATION

Director of the Centre for Research and Evaluation Dr. Elena Villamil address the audience at the launch The American University of Antigua College of Medicine (AUA) launched its Center for Research and Evaluation on Thursday February 27, 2020. The centre’s director Dr. M. Elena Villamil along with committee members Dr. Arun Agnihotri, Dr. Bharati Balachandran, Dr. Rick Millis and Dr. Joseph Cross spoke at the event.

Through its Research Academy, the centre aims to engender a robust research culture in AUA students, Graduate Fellows and faculty members by offering research-focused skills training and workshops. The Centre’s Evaluation Unit aims to optimize the university’s programs, courses and assessments to analyze factors that contribute to student success while perfecting pedagogical approaches that are adaptable to individual learning needs.

The center hosted it's first official workshop on March 9th and 10th which focused on DNA Metabarcoding. The workshop was facilitated by Dr. Ray Enke, Ph.D of the James Madison University and was sponsored in part by the Cold Springs Harbour Laboratory and DNA Learning Centre.

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Above workshop participants along with facilitator Dr. Ray Enke, and members of the Research Committee.

Below, some of the committee members (l-r) Dr. Karron James, Dr. Nagalakshmi Swamy, Dr. Joseph Cross and Dr. Elena Villamil pose with Dr. Ray Enke (center)

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AUA IN THE COMMUNITY On February 29, 2020 the EMTC team provided health screenings at the National Heritage Day fair. The event was hosted by the Cultural Development Division and displayed Antiguan culture including traditional foods, drinks, fashion, arts and craft, steel pan, iron band, dance and masquerades. Pictured (l-r) EMTC staff Mr. Jeremias Samuel, Ms. Chordai Osborne, Mr. Omari Durrant, Ms. Jeanette Jarvis and Dr. Courtney Lewis.

On June 30, 2020 AUA donated much needed supplies to the St. John Hospice.

Associate Dean of Wellness and Inclusion, Dr. Kimberly Mallin handed over the items to Ms. Cathlyn Gilkes, Administrator of the hospice. Ms. Gilkes expressed her appreciation and added that the donation will help the hospice to better serve the community. Pictured, Hospice staff at the handover.

On October 9, 2020 the Biology Program at the Antigua State College benefited from the donation of 12 microscopes. The microscopes were presented by Dr. Elena Villamil and Dr. Karron James on behalf of AUA, and were received by Mr. Dwayne Simon, acting head of the Liberal Arts Department at the Antigua State College.

Speaking on behalf of AUA, Dr. Villamil expressed her hope that the microscopes will in some small way assist the college in fulfilling its mission.

Mr. Simon thanked AUA management for their generosity and support of the Antigua State College and added that the equipment which is essential for the continuation of the Biology Program, will be put to use immediately. Pictured, Dr. James, Mr. Simon, and Dr. Villamil.

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October 8, 2020 – The Cedar Grove Primary were the recipients of a generous donation of cleaning and classroom supplies. The cleaning supplies were donated with the kind compliments of AUA and the classroom supplies were donated by students, staff and faculty members.

Mrs. Madella Aubrey-Christopher, AUA’s Administrative Support Services Supervisor made the presentation to the School’s acting principal Mrs. Althea Anthony.

Mrs. Madella Aubrey-Christopher expressed her hope that the supplies will assist in maintaining a healthy and safe environment for staff and students and will also support the efforts of the school to provide the tools necessary for learning.

Mrs. Anthony expressed her appreciation on behalf of students and teachers and her gratitude for the relationship that AUA has forged with the Cedar Grove Primary School. Ms. Anthony added that the donation is quite timely and would be put to good use. She pointed out that the supplies would not only help to safeguard the health of students and staff against COVID-19 but would also benefit the entire community.

Also present at the handover were AUA staff members Mr. Randy Lewis, Ms. Desiree Roberts and Mr. Ken Jarvis. Thanks to all of the staff members who assisted with organizing the supplies drive and special thanks to everyone who donated, especially students who sent donations from abroad.

Mrs. Anthony accepts the donation from Mrs. Aubrey-Christopher

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THE VICTORY CENTRE CHRISTMAS TOY DRIVE

The toy drive organized by Director, University Park Health Centre Dr. Kimberly Mallin ensured that the children at the Victory Centre had big smiles on their faces this Christmas. Faculty, staff and students all contributed to the drive and the toys were delivered by Assoc. Director of Wellness, Inclusion and Student Affairs, Dawn Roberts and student Rachel Jennings. Sincere thanks to everyone who helped to make this possible.

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MUD THE HALLS CHAMPIONS

Congratulations to the champions! On December 6, 2020 Dr. Vernon Lindsay, Dr. Karron James and Dr. Trevor Ngorosha were the winners of the first "Mud the Halls" obstacle course challenge. The charity event which was organized by the RohrMan Sports Association raised EC$4000 for the St. John Hospice.

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THE COMMUNITY OUTREACH COMMITTEE UPDATE

Outgoing Committee Chair Dr. Joy Cox (5th from left) and incoming Chair Dr. Andrea Vaughans (3rd from left) flanked by committee members l-r Dr. Karron James, Dawn Roberts, Dr. Samantha Colucchi, Janice Vigo, Sharon Brusch, Dr. Namadi Belle and Dr. Nikhilesh Annand The Community Outreach Committee membership has undergone recent changes. New members are Dr. Nikhilesh Annand, Dr. Sabyasachi Maity, Dr. Namadi Belle, Dawn Roberts, Dr. Andrea Vaughans, Dr. Samantha Colucci and Dr. Stephen Modise. Some of our long-standing members resigned in 2018 including Dr. Viswanath Sri, Sumita Balooja, Dr. Iris Saltiel, Dr. Kishan Kadur, Dr. Tracy Klucina, Dr. Roopa Sebastien, Dr. Sierra Elsken and Dr. Bolanthur Shivaraj. More recently, Dr. Lynn McKnight, Dr. Shyamala Ganesan, Dr. Sudha Kannavar and Dr. Joy Cox also resigned. It seems fitting to recognize the contributions of these members who have been of service to

AUA and the community. They all volunteered their personal time and resources to organize community events and willingly gave up their weekends to supervise service learning.

Kudos to Dr. Sudha Kannavar who served for 6 years and worked tirelessly as Health Fair Coordinator for the last 4 years.

We also commend Dr. Lynn McKnight for her work with the CARE Project which not only benefited the residents but also created additional servicelearning opportunities for students.

Thanks as well to Dr. Joy Cox who resigned in February after serving 2 years as Committee Chair.

We cannot express how much we appreciate their selfless service to AUA and the community.

This year, the committee has new leadership, please join me in congratulating Dr. Vaughans who was elected Chair in early March 2020. Dr. Vaughans follows in the footsteps of exemplary leaders including Dr. Karron James who served as Committee Chair for over 4 years. No doubt the coming year will be challenging for all of us but with Dr. Vaughans at the helm we are confident that we will continue to foster mutually beneficial relationships with community entities.

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CAUGHT DOING GOOD

Students Rachel Jennings (top) Ehimewenma Ogogun, and Fabiola Ngalle-Ehabil gave treats to faculty and staff during Random Acts of Kindness Week in February

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CAMPUS EVENTS

National Wear Red Day was observed on February 7th. The photo-op was a show of support for the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Antigua and Barbuda. The foundation was formed by AUA’s own Dr. Georgette Meade and Dr. Rasheda Williams along with concerned citizens, in response to the alarming increase in incidences of heart disease and stroke on the island. (Photos courtesy Homer Jacobs)

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On Thursday March 5th the University Counseling Centre celebrated Mental Health Day. An information table organized by University Counseling Center Director, Dr. Sonya Ford displayed information about mental wellbeing and university counseling services. Interest for the formation of a new student club, ‘Student Minds’ was also being sought. It is envisaged that the new club will focus on empowering students to raise awareness of the importance of mental well-being and to encourage conversations about mental health.

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World Prematurity Day was recognized on November 17th in partnership with the Mt. St. John's Medical Centre. Approximately 1 in every 8 babies born in Antigua and Barbuda are premature. World Prematurity Day acknowledges the journeys of preterm infants and their families and raises awareness of their challenges. The campus was featured as a part of the island-wide Light It Up Purple campaign and staff members wore purple to mark the occasion.

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AUA ROHRMAN 2020

Day 1 - Antigua highlights

Israel Romero, the only AUA student to complete the Rohrman Olympic Individual.

He completed the 1,500m swim, 40km bike and 10k run in 4 hours, 16 minutes and 2 seconds

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Photos courtesy of Dr. Sarita Banarjee, Dr. Devashree Parmar and Fara Gaston

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AUA ROHRMAN 2020 Day 2 - Barbuda highlights

International Triathletes Benjamin Sanson - RohrMan Race Director and Aurelian Raphael - RohrMan 2020 Olympic Champion

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Questions/Comments? Email the Editor: sbrusch@auamed.net