Cantrell recognized with APQI People’s Choice Award for Engaging and Inspiring Presentation

Russell W. Cantrell, MSCIS, MBA

Russell W. Cantrell, MSCIS, MBA, director of data administration and strategic initiatives in the Office of Accreditation and Planning, received the People’s Choice Award for Most Engaging and Inspiring Presentation from the Accreditation Preparation & Quality Improvement (APQI) community of practice.

Cantrell earned this recognition for his presentation, “Melody in Metrics: Crafting Charts That Hit the Right Notes,” delivered at the APQI National Conference in May. His presentation was noted for its dynamic delivery and ability to translate complex accreditation and quality improvement data into clear, actionable insights that resonated with attendees.

The award was formally presented during the APQI Annual Business Meeting held in San Antonio in November. Although Cantrell was unable to attend in person, the award was accepted on his behalf, reflecting the strong impact his work had on accreditation and CQI professionals nationwide.

In his role at the Whiddon College of Medicine, Cantrell manages critical data systems supporting accreditation and quality improvement efforts and leads the use of business intelligence tools to ensure data integrity and effective reporting. He also serves on the college’s continuous quality improvement and strategic planning committees.

“Russ has an exceptional ability to synthesize complex data and present it in ways that are both engaging and impactful,” said Tim Gilbert, Ed.D., associate dean of accreditation and planning. “His work is foundational to our accreditation efforts and strategic initiatives, and this recognition by APQI reflects the value he brings not only to our College, but to the broader medical education community.”

This national recognition aligns with the Whiddon College of Medicine Strategic Plan, particularly its emphasis on educational excellence, data-driven decision-making, and continuous quality improvement.

Pierce assumes role as APQI chair at national business meeting

Melisa Pierce, Ed.D., MPA, with Colleen

Hayden, Ed.D.

Melisa Pierce, Ed.D., MPA, executive director of accreditation and continuous quality improvement in the Office of Accreditation and Planning, was named chair of the Accreditation Preparation and Quality Improvement (APQI) group. She assumed the role during the APQI National Business Meeting, held in conjunction with Learn Serve Lead: The AAMC Annual Meeting, on Nov. 1 in San Antonio.

This year marked the first time APQI held dedicated space and formal recognition within the Learn Serve Lead conference, elevating the group’s national presence as a community of practice focused on accreditation readiness and continuous quality improvement in undergraduate medical education.

APQI supports professionals engaged in accreditation and CQI through advocacy, professional development, collaboration, and innovation. Pierce’s appointment reflects her national leadership in operationalizing accreditation readiness, CQI systems, and data-informed improvement.

“Melisa’s appointment as APQI chair reflects her expertise in building effective accreditation and CQI systems,” said Tim Gilbert, Ed.D., associate dean of accreditation and planning. “Her leadership strengthens our institution and contributes meaningfully to the national accreditation community.”

In her role at the Whiddon College of Medicine, Pierce serves as the primary operational lead for accreditation and continuous quality improvement, coordinating CQI committee work, managing accreditation platforms and documentation, and serving as Liaison Committee on Medical Education site visit coordinator. Her work aligns directly with the College’s strategic priorities related to educational excellence, staff and faculty success, and continuous improvement.

EDGE session explores courageous productivity in the AI era

Melisa Pierce, Ed.D., MPA; Amanda Arnold, M.S.;

Marcina Lang, MPA; and Jaime Koppersmith

The third session of the EDGE for Success series, Courageous Productivity: Leading with Purpose in the AI Era, challenged participants to rethink productivity — not as doing more, but as doing what matters most. Held on Oct. 29, the session focused on shifting from busyness to purposeful impact through clarity, courage, and intentional use of time and tools.

The session was led by Amanda Arnold, MS, RDN, LD, education and training specialist, alongside Marcina Lang, MPA; Melisa Pierce, Ed.D., MPA; and Jaime Koppersmith, who guided participants through discussion and hands-on application centered on sustainable productivity and leadership presence.

Participants explored the productivity paradox — the reality that having more tools does not automatically lead to greater effectiveness. Drawing from Brené Brown’s work on courage and vulnerability and Jordan Raynor’s framework for purpose-driven productivity, the session emphasized aligning energy, attention, and priorities with values rather than urgency.

A key highlight was the AI group challenge, in which participants practiced refining difficult or high-stakes messages using AI as a support tool. The exercise reinforced that technology can enhance clarity and professionalism without replacing authenticity, empathy, or leadership voice.

“True productivity isn’t just about getting more done; it’s about being intentional with our energy, our voice, and our leadership,” Arnold said. “When we show up with purpose, we create space for clarity, trust, and real impact.”

The session embodied the heart of EDGE: practical skill-building grounded in reflection, peer learning, and real-world application. Participants left with concrete strategies to reduce mental clutter, clarify priorities, and experiment thoughtfully with AI as a productivity partner while remaining rooted in purpose and authenticity.

Pediatrics residents match at their top choices for fellowships

From left, Haidee Custodio, M.D.; Erika Morales, M.D.; Jordan Cooper, M.D.; Eru Sujakhu, M.D.; J.C. Hernandez, M.D.; and Benjamin Estrada, M.D.

The latest class of pediatrics residents from USA Health recently matched into their top choices for subspecialty fellowships at prestigious hospitals and health systems across the United States.  

“We're proud of our long history of residents matching into the fellowship programs they aim for, and this year was no exception,” said Haidee Custodio, M.D., pediatrics residency program director at USA Health and professor of pediatric infectious diseases at the Whiddon College of Medicine. “Our residents put in the work, and our faculty have been right there supporting them every step of the way.”

Here are the pediatrics residents, their specialties, and where they matched for fellowships:   

• Chime Ndubuoke, M.D., neonatology, UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas 
• Erika Morales, M.D., endocrinology, Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston, Texas 
• Eru Sujakhu, M.D., gastroenterology, Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio 
• J.C. Hernandez, M.D., cardiology, UTHealth Houston in Houston, Texas 
• Jordan Cooper, M.D., neonatology, East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina 
• Maria Jose Vera Sanchez, M.D., hematology and oncology, Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, St. Petersburg, Florida 

By training in teaching hospitals and at medical clinics, new physicians can learn in an environment that integrates education, research and patient care — an experience offering benefits to the healthcare staff and those they care for. Research shows patients treated in teaching hospitals had up to 20% higher odds of survival compared to those treated at non-teaching hospitals, noted the Association of American Medical Colleges. 

The three-year pediatrics residency program at USA Health is a university-based initiative designed to prepare residents to enter practice as general pediatricians or for subspecialty training. The goal of the program is to prepare the pediatricians-in-training to practice effective primary care pediatrics in the community, while simultaneously providing flexibility, allowing those interested in subspecialty training, academic pediatrics, and research the necessary background to pursue those professional goals. 

Register now for Autonomy in Practice: Foundations of Coaching

The Offices of Faculty Affairs and Faculty Development, Student Affairs, and Medical Education have announced the launch of Autonomy in Practice: Foundations of Coaching program, an enhanced professional development program designed to strengthen coaching skills in academic medicine.

“Learning to differentiate the coaching process from advising has brought me a lot of clarity,” said Brandy Merritt, M.D., an assistant professor of pediatrics and previous participant. “The skills I gained gave me insight into my own thought process.”

In response to participant feedback, the program has been redesigned to offer a more efficient, practice-focused experience. Key updates include:

• Significantly shorter commitment: four sessions over six weeks 
• More time to practice: In-person sessions are now primarily dedicated to hands-on coaching practice with real-time feedback
• Flexible preparation: Remote/virtual reading and discussions to accommodate busy schedules
• Expert guidance: Direct coaching observation and personalized feedback from professional coaches
• Professional development: CME credits provided

The refined program is designed to equip participants with evidence-based coaching techniques that help unlock the innate potential of learners. Faculty will be prepared to guide students in developing self-directed, lifelong learning habits, an increasingly critical skill in the rapidly evolving healthcare environment.

Sessions will be held on Fridays from 1 to 5 p.m. on the following dates:

• March 6
• March 20
• April 3
• April 17

Fill out the Google doc to register. 

For questions, contact Binata Mukherjee, M.D., MBA, at bmukherjee@southalabama.edu.

Office of Health Advancement takes the lead on professional identity formation initiative

LoRen Modisa, Ed.D., MPA, speaks to medical students on professional identity formation.

The Office of Health Advancement is leading the Whiddon College of Medicine’s efforts to strengthen professional identity formation (PIF), a core component of medical education that shapes how students “think, feel and act” like physicians.

Through intentional collaboration and innovation, the PIF working group, co-led by Tiquera Hall, Ph.D., MPA, education and training program manager, and LoRen Modisa, Ed.D., MPA, director of the Office of Health Advancement, is creating a shared vision for how students develop their professional identities throughout their medical school journey.

“Professional identity formation is not just about what students learn,” Modisa said. “It’s about who they become as future physicians and how they integrate their personal values, learner mindset, and professional roles to serve patients and communities with empathy, integrity and excellence.”

A Collaborative Effort

The PIF working group brings together a diverse team of faculty and staff from across the College of Medicine, including:

• Office of Health Advancement: Franklin Trimm, M.D.; Tiquera Hall, Ph.D., MPA; LoRen Modisa, Ed.D, MPA; and Sherry Parnell, BSW
• Undergraduate Medical Education: T.J. Hundley, M.D., FACP; and Peyton McElroy, Ph.D.
• Clinical Skills: Laura Boatright, M.D., CHSE
• Office of Accreditation and Planning / Academic Success: David Williams, Ph.D., MPA; and Angie O’Neal, M.Ed.
• Student Affairs: Laventrice Ridgeway Ed.D., LPC, NCC; and Becky Smith, Ph.D, LPC, NCC
• Faculty Development: Amanda Arnold, M.S., RDN, LD
• Graduate Medical Education: Judy Blair-Elortegui, M.D. (Internal Medicine) and Jenna Pfleeger, M.D. (Family Medicine)

Together, the group is mapping, aligning, and expanding PIF efforts across the medical education continuum, from pre-clinical learning and clerkships to residency preparation and beyond.

From Vision to Action

Tiquera Hall, Ph.D., MPA

The foundation for this work began in May 2024, when faculty and staff from key departments began exploring ways to better connect identity development to medical education. Over the following months, the Office of Health Advancement assumed leadership of the initiative, building on early discussions and launching the PIF working group in October 2024.

Since then, the group has met regularly to identify and analyze existing activities that foster PIF, uncover gaps, and create a unified framework. To date, 93 PIF-related activities or touchpoints have been identified across the Whiddon College of Medicine (65% required and 35% extracurricular) highlighting the breadth of experiences that contribute to student growth.

“Our goal is to create a cohesive and intentional approach to PIF that supports both academic excellence and personal well-being,” Hall said. “When students see how their learning connects to who they are becoming, they develop a stronger sense of purpose and a deeper connection with their patients.”

Defining PIF at the Whiddon COM

Through this work, the Whiddon College of Medicine has adopted a shared definition of professional identity formation: “Through implementation of a student-centered approach to professional identity formation, the Whiddon COM strives to have every student possess a healthy concurrence between personal, learner and career identity.”

Looking ahead, the PIF working group will continue to engage key stakeholders (including students, clerkship directors, faculty, and the curriculum committee) to build awareness, standardize language, and celebrate the individuality of each student’s professional journey.

Professional identity formation is a continuous process; by making it visible and intentional, it is ensured that students not only gain medical knowledge but also develop the reflective, compassionate mindset that defines exceptional physicians.

USA Foundation continues to support Whiddon College of Medicine building construction

Members of the University of South Alabama Board of Trustees tour the Whiddon College of Medicine building. 

Building on its longstanding support of the University of South Alabama, the USA Foundation is providing an additional $9.33 million for construction of the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine building, scheduled to open in 2027. The Foundation’s Board of Directors approved the gift — consisting of land and cash — at its December meeting. This new commitment follows the foundation’s previous $30 million investment in the project.

“Through their extraordinary and sustained benevolence, the USA Foundation's cumulative commitment to the new Whiddon College of Medicine building now stands at nearly $40 million,” said USA President Jo Bonner. “This is more than a building; it is a vital, strategic investment that will profoundly impact our state and nation for decades to come.”

The latest gift includes $6 million in cash and a 37-acre tract of land on Knollwood Drive north of Government Boulevard valued at $3.33 million. The property will be sold, with proceeds supporting the building project.

“The USA Foundation Board is pleased to provide this additional support for the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine building,” said Maxey J. Roberts, managing director of the USA Foundation. “Completion of this facility will fulfill the vision of Dr. Whiddon, the University’s first president and founder of the USA Foundation, who recognized the need for a medical school in this region. It was through his tenacity that the medical school was established in 1969, only six years after the University’s founding.”

The total cost of the new Whiddon College of Medicine Building is $230 million. It has been constructed with more than 2,073 tons of structural steel, and is supported by approximately 28,000 linear feet – more than 5 miles – of driven concrete piles.

“The Foundation’s commitment strengthens healthcare in this region through the professionals educated and trained in the Whiddon College of Medicine,” said John McMillan, president of the USA Foundation.

The new College of Medicine building will complete a medical education quad that includes the College of Nursing, the Pat Capps Covey College of Allied Health Professions, the Simulation Center, and the Charles M. Baugh Biomedical Library. When the building opens, more than 500,000 square feet on campus will be dedicated to healthcare education.

Doc Rock 2026: Five local bands to battle for a cause

By Brittany Nelson

USA Health’s fifth annual Doc Rock returns Jan. 29, 2026, at Soul Kitchen in downtown Mobile. All proceeds from this battle-of-the-bands event will support research and critical clinical needs at USA Health. The doors will open at 6:30 p.m., and the show starts at 7 p.m.

Many local bands with an affiliation to USA Health and the Whiddon College of Medicine submitted an application in hopes to perform at Doc Rock next month. After much deliberation, the selection committee recently announced the final five bands: Eklektik Experience, No Complications, Sixth Sense, Sloth Racer and Society Hill.

“Doc Rock is one of my favorite events of the year,” said Natalie Fox, CEO of USA Health. “The energy in the room is unmatched with wall-to-wall smiles, great music, and a night full of fun that rallies support for our health system, our employees, and the patients we serve.”

Early voting is now open, giving supporters the chance to help their favorite band earn one of several awards. Every vote also contributes to the band’s fundraising total, directly supporting its chosen USA Health entity. The awards include Crowd Favorite Award (audience’s favorite band), $2,000; Technical Award (band chosen by the judges), $3,000; Fan-atic Award (largest number of donors), $4,000; and Rock the Mission Award (highest fundraising band), $5,000.

Proceeds from sponsorships, ticket sales and voting donations will directly support the research and clinical priorities identified by each participating band. Since its launch in 2022, Doc Rock has raised nearly $200,000 to advance essential research and clinical care at USA Health. The event’s impact was honored in early 2025, when it was named Business Alabama’s Philanthropic Project of the Year and featured in the publication.

Purchase tickets, become a sponsor, and cast early votes at usahealthsystem.com/docrock. 

Meet the Bands

Eklektik Experience
Supporting USA Health Children’s & Women’s Hospital

Band Members: Herbert Conaway (IT Technical Specialist at USA Health Providence), Donald William, David Woods, Jimmy Williams, Moses El, Larry Moore, Felicia Moore, Ashley Lewis, Ida Finklea and Terrell Warren

Eklektik Experience was founded with one goal: to be the band of choice for any occasion. With seasoned musicians and more than 30 years of combined experience, their setlist spans funk, jazz, Motown, R&B, neo-soul, country and Top 40 favorites. 

No Complications
Supporting USA Health Emergency Medicine

Band Members: Ethan Bertagnolli (USA Health University Hospital ER Nurse), Roman Scardina, Sam Herport and Garrett Warman

Formed in 2021, No Complications is a local indie-alternative rock band known for electrifying performances. Their authentic sound and heartfelt songwriting have helped them carve out a strong presence in the indie music scene.

Sixth Sense
Supporting USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute

Band Members: Israel Valenzuela, Maddison Hill, Charity Yarbrough, Wesley Yarbrough, Cade Meyers and Cya Edwards (all medical students at the Whiddon College of Medicine)

Sixth Sense began as a trio at a Whiddon College of Medicine talent show before expanding to broaden their sound. They now perform multi-genre covers ranging from alternative and pop to jazz, R&B, indie and rock. For these future physicians, music is a creative outlet that brings balance and connection, where artistry and compassion intersect.

Sloth Racer
Supporting Pediatric ICU at USA Health Children's & Women's Hospital

Band Members: Mark Roberts (spouse of USA Chief Financial Officer Kristen Roberts), Franklin Pratt, John Rocker and Reed Gilmore

Sloth Racer has been performing together since 2017, bringing an upbeat, high-energy style to every show. They’re known for crowd-pleasing covers spanning hits from the ’90s to today.

Society Hill
Supporting USA Health University Hospital’s Project Inspire

Band Members: Ashley Williams Hogue, M.D. (Trauma Surgeon, University Hospital; Director of USA Health Center for Healthy Communities), Antwan Hogue, M.D. (Senior Hospitalist; Medical Director at the Johnson Haynes Jr. Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center), Daphney Portis (Project Inspire Program Coordinator), Ralph Edwards (USA Health Informatics Specialist) and Jada Gardner (USA Health Director of Staff Development)

Established in 2024, Society Hill brings fun, engaging energy to the stage with R&B and pop covers. United by a shared passion for music and healing, the group performs to inspire positive change and support their community.

Pathology residents present abstracts at ASCP 2025

Ardenne Martin, M.D.; Maha Babker, M.D.; and Charu 

Shastri, M.D., were among the residents who 

presented at the annual meeting.

Six residents from the Department of Pathology presented their scholarly work at the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) 2025 Annual Meeting held Nov. 17-20 in Atlanta. 

“We congratulate our residents for their exceptional representation of the University of South Alabama Whiddon College of Medicine and their contributions to advancing pathology practice and research,” said Guillermo A. Herrera, M.D., professor and chair of pathology. “Their presentations highlight the strength and growth of our training program.”

Presenting residents and abstracts:

• Maha Babker, M.D.
• “Invasive Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of the Breast with Lobular Carcinoma Component: A Case Report.”
• “Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis Complicated by Pulmonary Mucormycosis in an Immunocompromised Acute Myeloid Leukemia Patient: A Case Report.”
• Charu Shastri, M.D.
• “Right or Risky? Examining Third-Trimester Umbilical Cord Coiling and Its Impact on Pregnancy Complications and Outcomes.”
• Jawaria Hassan, M.D.
• “Clinicopathological Features and Molecular Alterations of Endometrial Carcinosarcoma Diagnosed in the South Gulf Coast Region.”
• Rasha Mohammed, M.D.
• “Quantifying the Giants: A Novel Immunohistochemical and Digital Pathology Approach to Polyploid Giant Cancer Cell Detection and Prognostic Stratification in High-Grade Ovarian Carcinoma.”
• Huseyin Kilic, M.D.
• “Renal Hemangioblastoma in a Patient with von Hippel–Lindau Syndrome: A Rare Tumor in an Uncommon Site.”
• Ardenne Martin, M.D.
• “Understanding Drivers of Laboratory Test Overuse in Clinical Practice: A Strategy for Enhancing Financial Well-Being at USA Health University Hospital.”

ASCP is a professional association encompassing 100,000 pathologists and laboratory professionals. Founded in 1922, ASCP provides programs in education, certification and advocacy on behalf of patients, pathologists and laboratory professionals.

Walk with a Doc to focus on melanoma

Join USA Health surgical oncologist Harrison Howard, M.D., for Walk with a Doc at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13, at the USA Student Rec Center. The event, which is free and open to the public, will begin with a short talk about current treatments for melanoma, followed by a healthy walk based on each participant’s pace and distance. 

The next Walk with a Doc is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 10. For more information, visit the Walk with a Doc webpage. 

Herrera invited to speak at international onconephrology symposium

Guillermo A. Herrera, M.D.

Guillermo A. Herrera, M.D., professor and chair of pathology at the Whiddon College of Medicine, represented the University of South Alabama and the Department of Pathology on an international stage.

He was invited to give a lecture at the first International Onconephrology Symposium held Nov. 19–20 in Mexico City. His presentation was titled “Identification of Paraproteins (Monoclonal Proteins) in Tissues: Techniques.”

The lecture was attended by more than 100 nephrologists, oncologists and pathologists, reflecting strong interest and international collaboration across specialties dedicated to improving patient outcomes in onconephrology.

Onconephrology is a specialized field in kidney medicine (nephrology) focusing on managing kidney problems in cancer patients, addressing complications from cancer itself, chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, and potential kidney injury during treatment. Onconephrologists work closely with oncologists to help patients preserve kidney health while undergoing cancer treatment.

Herrera earned his medical degree from the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine in San Juan. He completed his residency training in anatomic and clinical pathology at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas. He is certified by the American Board of Pathology in anatomic and clinical pathology and cytopathology. 

Pathology residents present case studies at national dermatopathology meeting

Katrina Jiang, M.D., presented two posters and delivered an oral presentation at the meeting.

Katrina Jiang, M.D.

Residents in the Department of Pathology presented their outstanding scholarly work at the 2025 American Society of Dermatopathology (ASDP) Annual Meeting held Nov. 6-9 in Baltimore.

Katrina Jiang, M.D., a first-year resident, delivered an oral presentation titled “Two Cases of Electron Microscopy-Proven SMARCA4-Deficient Undifferentiated Large Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma Presenting as Subcutaneous Masses.”

Jiang also presented two posters at the conference: “Desmoplastic Melanoma with Loss of SOX10 and S100 Expression and p63 Positivity: A Rare Diagnostic Pitfall” and “An Unusual Presentation of Delayed Psoriasis Years After PD-1 Checkpoint Inhibitor Discontinuation.”

Ardenne Martin, M.D., a second-year resident, gave an oral presentation titled “Protein Kinase C Fused Melanocytoma with Sentinel Lymph Node Involvement in a Young Male.”

Ardenne Martin, M.D.

“These presentations are a testament to the department’s continued commitment to advancing diagnostic excellence, research innovation, and national academic engagement in dermatopathology,” said Guillermo A. Herrera, M.D., professor and chair of pathology. “Their contributions reflect the high level of scholarship and clinical rigor within our department and institution.”

Dermatopathologists are physicians who, after completing their training in either dermatology or pathology, pursued additional training in accredited programs for the interpretation of skin biopsies. These physicians integrate the clinical information with microscopic observations of the biopsy from the patient to provide diagnostic information to the treating physician.

The mission of the ASDP is to improve patient care, support member needs, and advance the field of dermatopathology through education, advocacy and innovation.

EDGE session strengthens skills for communication and crucial conversations

Gracie Overstreet, MBA; Christina Murphree, and

Alicia Jones, MBA

The second session of EDGE for Success focused on building the communication skills that shape trust, collaboration and leadership effectiveness. The session was led by mentor Christina Murphree with mentees Alicia Jones, MBA; Douglas Kent Holmes, M.D.; and Gracie Overstreet, MBA. 

The group explored a practical Communication Toolbox, including active listening, clarity and conciseness, empathy, constructive feedback, conflict resolution, and nonverbal awareness, skills that help prevent misunderstandings and create space for genuine connection.

A key part of the session introduced four communication styles — Driver, Analyzer, Expressive and Agreeable — and highlighted how understanding these differences can transform team dynamics. Participants reflected on how their own style influences their interactions and how adapting to others’ needs can reduce tension, strengthen rapport, and support more productive conversations.

Through guided discussion and real-world examples, the session emphasized that difficult conversations don’t have to be avoided; they can be navigated with confidence, care, and intention. Participants shared insights about staying present, listening without judgment, and giving feedback that is both honest and respectful.

Session 2 underscored a core EDGE message: leadership begins with how we communicate. By practicing intentional communication, participants are building the trust, emotional intelligence, and resilience that allow them to lead from any role.

Whiddon COM showcased nationally at the Assessment Institute

Melisa Pierce, Ed.D., MPA

This October, Melisa Pierce, Ed.D., MPA, executive director of accreditation and continuous quality improvement in the Office of Accreditation and Planning, represented the Whiddon College of Medicine at the Assessment Institute in Indianapolis. She presented her session, “The EDGE Effect: Transforming Professional Development Through Leadership Growth,” highlighting the College’s innovative approach to developing leadership capacity among faculty and staff who do not hold formal supervisory roles.

The session shared key findings from the EDGE for Success program, an initiative created within the Whiddon COM to address a clear gap in professional development. Traditional models often overlook non-supervisory professionals, despite their essential role in communication, collaboration, and student support. EDGE was designed to meet that need by pairing structured skill-building with mentorship, reflection, and facilitation practice.

The research demonstrated measurable gains in leadership confidence, resilience, and general self-efficacy, reinforcing the idea that leadership can be cultivated at every level of an institution. “We identified a gap in professional development and created EDGE to address it,” Pierce sad. “It has been incredibly well received, and the data shows how meaningful it has been for both mentees and mentors.”

The presentation also connected EDGE to broader institutional priorities. The program reflects the University of South Alabama’s Strategic Plan, particularly its emphasis on student success, high-impact practices, and a supportive professional culture. Within the Whiddon COM Strategic Plan, EDGE directly supports goals related to staff and faculty success, educational excellence, and fostering a collaborative academic environment.

Presenting this work on a national stage allowed the Whiddon COM to share a scalable model for workforce development while highlighting the College’s commitment to continuous improvement, inclusive leadership, and investing in people. The EDGE Effect continues to demonstrate how intentional development, supported by strong mentorship and reflective practice, can elevate both individual growth and institutional effectiveness.

Faculty, residents and alumni provide lifesaving care in the Dominican Republic

The group of volunteers provided essential medical care to underserved populations on the island.

By Lindsay Hughes

During a weeklong mission in La Romana, Dominican Republic, faculty, residents and alumni from the Whiddon College of Medicine joined colleagues from across North America to deliver essential medical care to some of the region’s most vulnerable populations. 

The group, Cross Cultural Medicine on Hispaniola (CCMH), worked side-by-side in farming villages and correctional facilities, bringing critical medical services to individuals who rarely, if ever, have access to healthcare.

Tosin Oladunjoye, M.D.; Grace Lagasse, M.D.; and

Jashen Bailey, D.O.

CCMH is a multidisciplinary, international coalition dedicated to caring for underserved populations on the island. Their longstanding mission focuses on providing care for Haitian sugar cane workers living in remote settlements known as bateys, as well as individuals in local jails and prisons. For many patients, the clinics provided by CCMH represent their only opportunity to receive medical attention.

Over the course of the week, the team treated approximately 1,200 patients through mobile clinics in the bateys and onsite care inside correctional facilities. They managed a wide spectrum of acute and chronic conditions and provided essential dental services, including extractions. Each encounter reflected the mission’s commitment to compassionate, reliable care.

Grace Lagasse, M.D., an assistant professor of emergency medicine at the Whiddon COM, was among the participants this year. She emphasized the importance of reaching communities that are otherwise excluded from basic services. “By continuing these batey clinics, which now expand beyond bateys to reach even more Haitians living in the eastern Dominican Republic,” she said, “basic medical care will continue to be delivered to this highly at-risk population, who is otherwise denied access to quality care.” 

Residents also played a key role in the effort. Second-year emergency medicine residents Tosin Oladunjoye, M.D., and Jashen Bailey, D.O., joined the mission to help staff clinics and provide direct patient care.

Patrick Nolan, M.D.

“I had an unforgettable experience on the medical mission trip to the Dominican Republic,” Oladunjoye said. “Providing health care for individuals in the rural bateys, underserved communities and local prisons deepened my purpose as a physician. I am grateful for every moment of compassion, connection and healing.”

“This trip was one of the best experiences I’ve had in residency,” Bailey said. “I spent the week alongside physicians from multiple specialties; each bringing unique experiences and years of wisdom to serve and encourage others. Together, we cared for patients who continually expressed their gratitude simply for being seen, heard, and cared for. I hope I can be a part of this trip again in the future.” 

Several Whiddon College of Medicine alumni from the Class of 1981 contributed their expertise as well, including general surgeon Robert Chagrasulis, M.D., who helped organize the trip; infectious disease physician Patrick Nolan, M.D.; interventional radiologist Kyran Dowling, M.D.; and obstetrician-gynecologist Thomas Miller, M.D. Internal medicine physicians Alan Shain, M.D., who completed his residency at USA Health, and Desiree Soter-Pearsall, M.D., a former faculty member, also volunteered.

CCMH’s service effort began in the late 1990s and has been sustained by volunteers ever since, with only a brief pause during the COVID-19 pandemic. Whiddon COM faculty began participating in 2022, and residents joined the mission in 2024, strengthening a partnership that continues to expand its reach and impact across Hispaniola.

Graduate student presents research at regional microbiology conference

Oluwagbenro Adesunloro

By Casandra Andrews

Oluwagbenro Adesunloro, a Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the Whiddon College of Medicine, recently presented his research at the Southeastern Branch of the American Society for Microbiology (SEB-ASM) conference in Athens, Georgia.  

Adesunloro, a member of the Shea Lab, delivered an oral presentation on the role of amyloid beta during urinary tract infection. “The conference was a wonderful experience that provided an opportunity to connect with colleagues from other institutions and discuss my research,” he said.  

Amyloid beta is a small protein best known for its link to Alzheimer’s disease, where it builds up in the brain. But new research, including work from USA collaborator Jonathan Audia, Ph.D., in sepsis, suggests that it might also play a role in the body’s natural immune defense, said Allyson E. Shea, Ph.D., an assistant professor of microbiology and immunology. “With Olu’s project, we are exploring this idea for the first time in urinary tract infections.”  

When bacteria invade, the immune system fights back, and some evidence shows that amyloid beta can act like an antimicrobial peptide — it can trap or damage bacteria and may even help signal other immune responses. The tricky part, notes Shea, “is that while this might help control infection, too much amyloid beta can also cause inflammation and tissue damage. Our goal is to understand when it helps and when it hurts.” 

At the conclusion of the meeting, Adesunloro was honored with a travel award in recognition of his contributions to the conference.  

“Olu did an outstanding job presenting this work,” Shea said. “His oral presentation was clear, confident, and engaging, which is likely why he was recognized with a travel award for his performance. He represented both our lab and the Basic Medical Sciences Graduate Program exceptionally well, as a Dean’s Fellowship recipient. His professionalism and enthusiasm reflect the strength of our training environment and the promise of his future as a scientist.” 

The Southeastern Branch of the American Society for Microbiology is a regional division of the ASM representing microbiologists across Alabama, Florida, and Georgia. The branch promotes and advances microbial sciences through education, research, and collaboration among scientists, educators and students.  

Whiddon COM launches newsletter focused on continuous quality improvement

The Whiddon College of Medicine is excited to launch CQI Quarterly, a new newsletter from the Office of Accreditation and Planning.

This newsletter is part of our commitment to transparency, collaboration, and continuous improvement across the college. Each issue will highlight the work happening behind the scenes to strengthen our educational programs and support our strategic goals.

Look for:

• Students asked, we acted
• Project updates from across the Whiddon COM
• Strategic plan progress
• Insight to impact – how your feedback drives change
• What’s next – and how you can get involved

Read the first issue here: www.southalabama.edu/colleges/com/administration/resources/cqi-quarterly-vol1.pdf

PALs make an impact through peer-led academic support

At the Whiddon College of Medicine, peer support plays a crucial role in student success. Each year, a select group of motivated and academically successful second-, third-, and fourth-year medical students serve as Peer Academic Leaders (PALs), helping strengthen the college’s culture of shared learning.

PALs are an integral part of the Academic Success team and play a vital role in fostering an inclusive, collaborative learning environment. Through individualized guidance, group sessions, and structured academic programming, they help fellow students navigate the academic demands of medical school and build the skills necessary for long-term success.

“Our Peer Academic Leaders are an essential part of our Academic Success efforts,” said Angie O’Neal, M.Ed., director of learning support services, who oversees the PAL program. “They create a supportive, collaborative environment where students can strengthen their skills, build confidence, and learn from peers who truly understand the challenges of medical training. Their commitment to helping others succeed is one of the things that makes our learning community so strong.”

Throughout the year, PALs design and lead a wide range of academic support opportunities, including content review, question-based coaching, peer-to-peer case learning, study sessions, and exam preparation workshops. Their support extends to Step 1 and Step 2 preparation and other critical milestones, ensuring that students at every stage of training have access to timely and relevant academic guidance.

To prepare for this role, all Peer Academic Leaders complete training at the start of the academic year and participate in monthly professional development focused on evidence-based learning strategies, effective communication, and peer support. This ongoing training not only enhances the quality of support they provide but also builds valuable skills in leadership and medical education that will benefit them in their future careers as physicians.

David Williams, Ph.D., MPA, assistant dean for institutional and academic success, said the program reflects the college’s commitment to shared learning and mutual support. “Our Peer Academic Leaders exemplify the spirit of mentorship and collaboration that we value in our medical education program,” he said. “Their dedication to supporting their classmates not only strengthens academic performance but also reinforces a culture of shared success. I am proud of the impact they make and the leadership they demonstrate.”

Pathology fellow earns inaugural BCRFA Catalyst Award for promising breast cancer research

Prabhat Suman, Ph.D., right, with his mentor, Debanjan Chakroborty, Ph.D., is investigating mechanisms that drive tumor growth.

By Lindsay Hughes

A researcher at the USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute was recognized for his early-career potential with a new honor from the Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama (BCRFA). 

Prabhat Suman, Ph.D., a postdoctoral fellow in pathology, has been selected as a recipient of the inaugural BCRFA Catalyst Award, a $25,000 grant to support early investigators pursuing innovative breast cancer studies.

For Suman, who has spent the past three years investigating mechanisms that drive tumor growth, the award represents both validation and momentum.

“As a researcher, getting the BCRFA Catalyst Award means a lot to me,” he said. “Not only does it help me pursue new ideas, but it also gives me the confidence that I am on the right track with my work. This award will let me get the early results I need to strengthen my research and lay a solid groundwork for future grant applications. I am grateful for the opportunity.”

The project funded by the Catalyst Award will allow Suman to explore how WNT7b, a signaling protein, affects tumor growth. By generating preliminary data, the research team hopes to determine whether reducing WNT7b activity can slow or stop the spread of breast cancer cells.

“Understanding the mechanism of action of this protein could lead to the development of novel treatments, thereby improving disease prognosis,” Suman explained. “The results will help to secure larger grants and more advanced studies.”

His mentor, Debanjan Chakroborty, Ph.D., an assistant professor of pathology at the Whiddon College of Medicine and a cancer researcher at MCI, said the recognition comes at a pivotal moment in Suman’s career.

“As a mentor, I would like to say that this is a phenomenal achievement,” Chakroborty said. “Dr. Suman has been working with me for three years now, and I have witnessed his rapid growth as a researcher. The award will not only provide financial support but also boost his confidence in his research endeavors. He is an excellent researcher, and this award will undoubtedly strengthen his trajectory and contribute to future success. I look forward to seeing the outcome of this innovative study.”

Suman credits Chakroborty’s mentorship as a key part of his development. “I am thankful to my mentor, Dr. Debanjan Chakroborty, for his unwavering support and encouragement. His guidance has been vital in my growth as a researcher,” he said.

The Breast Cancer Research Foundation of Alabama has invested more than $17 million in Alabama-based breast cancer research since 1996.

Apply now for Educator's Compass faculty development program

Whiddon College of Medicine faculty are invited to apply for the Educator's Compass: Teaching Track, a cohort-based faculty development program designed to help medical educators strengthen their teaching skills and confidence in the classroom and clinical setting.

Through interactive workshops, peer learning, and practical application, participants explore evidence-based strategies to enhance learner engagement and instructional effectiveness. This program is ideal for faculty who are passionate about teaching and demonstrate promise as future educational leaders.

Program Details

• Cohort: Spring 2026
• Schedule: Every other Wednesday, Jan. 14 – May 6, 2026
• Time: 3 to 5 p.m.
• Format: Hybrid (mix of in-person and virtual sessions)
• Who should apply: Module directors, clerkship directors, program directors, associate directors, and other faculty members interested in advancing their teaching skills
• How to apply: https://forms.gle/rHu452FMchNzd66h7

Space is limited, so early application is encouraged. Contact Amanda Arnold at akarnold@southalabama.edu with any questions about the program.

USA Health residents and fellows present multiple posters at annual GI meeting

Omsai Meka, M.D.; Lauren Healey, D.O.; Adriana Reyes, M.D.; Shausha Farooq, M.D.; Will Basegoda, M.D.; and Will Gannaway.

USA Health internal medicine residents and gastroenterology fellows made a strong impact at the 2025 American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) Annual Scientific Meeting, held last month in Phoenix, Arizona, where they showcased diverse, high-level clinical research. 

Eleven residents and fellows presented 15 posters over the three-day event. Fellows Hunter Dickson, D.O, and William Dungan, M.D., and internal medicine resident Rida Ahmad, MBBS, won ACG Presidential Poster Awards. 

“Representing USA Health at ACG along with my colleagues was an incredible experience,” said Omsai Meka, M.D., a second-year internal medicine resident. “I presented on a potential adverse effect of a biologic medication that we use regularly for IBD treatment as it is important to bring awareness of these effects. It was wonderful to see and learn about new advances in GI while connecting with new colleagues.” 

The residents and fellows who presented posters included:  

• Dickson, who presented posters titled “New Onset Crohn’s Disease Following Secukinumab Therapy for Hidradenitis Suppurativa” (ACG Presidential Poster Award) and “A Rare Case of Gastric Myeloid Sarcoma in Relapsed Acute Myeloid Leukemia” 
• Dungan, who presented a poster titled “Coilodocholithiasis: ERCP Management of Biliary Obstruction from Gastroduodenal Artery Coil Migration” (ACG Presidential Poster Award) 
• Cesar Moreno, M.D., a gastroenterology fellow, who presented a poster titled “Crohn’s Disease Unmasked by Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome” 
• Robert Ousley, M.D., a gastroenterology fellow, who presented a poster titled “Complications of Vertical Banded Gastroplasty: A Case Highlighting Late Sequelae”  
• Jessica Woodham, D.O., a gastroenterology fellow, who presented a poster titled “Immune-Mediated Colitis with Visible Endoscopic Changes and Lymphocytic Histologic Changes: A Diagnostic Conundrum”  
• Ahmad, a second-year internal medicine resident, who was not able to attend, but her poster “Diabetic Ketoacidosis Complicated by Esophageal Perforation: A Case Report of Black Esophagus” was presented by a GI fellow in attendance 
• Shausha Farooq, M.D., a third-year internal medicine resident, who presented “Aseptic Abscess Syndrome Causing Repeat Liver Abscess in a Patient with Ulcerative Colitis” 
• Lauren Healey, D.O, a third-year internal medicine resident, who presented posters titled “A Rare Case of CMV Presenting as an Ampullary Mass and Cholangitis in an Immunocompetent Patient” and “When Pancreatic Cyst Rupture Leads to Cytokine Storm: A Case of Secondary Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis”   
• Adriana Reyes, M.D., a third-year internal medicine resident, who presented a poster titled “When the Right Side Goes Wrong: An Atypical Presentation of Isolated Right-Sided Colonic Ischemia in an Elderly Patient” 
• Will Basegoda, M.D., a second-year internal medicine resident, who presented posters titled “Annular Pancreas Unveiled: An Incidental Finding in Alcoholic Pancreatitis” and “An Unusual Presentation of Obstructive Jaundice Due to Primary Hepatic Lymphoma” 
• Comfort Jack, M.D., a second-year internal medicine resident, who presented a poster titled “IgG4-Related Hepatobiliary Disease Presenting as Biliary Stricture and Hepatic Mass: A Delayed Diagnosis”  
• Meka, who presented a poster titled “Metastatic Primary Ovarian Melanoma Following TNF-α Inhibitor Use for Fistulizing Crohn’s Disease” 

These residents and fellows were joined at the national meeting by Preston Sonnier, M.D., a gastroenterologist at USA Health, an assistant professor of internal medicine at the Whiddon College of Medicine, and director of the Section of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases.  

“It was an honor to represent South Alabama at ACG, where I had the opportunity to present my posters, connect with people from across the country, and even reconnect with familiar faces,” Basegoda said. “The experience was unique and inspiring.” 

Art of Medicine showcases creativity across Whiddon College of Medicine

Students showcased their artistic talents at the fourth annual event.

Twenty-one artists and performers from the Whiddon College of Medicine shared their talents at the fourth annual Art of Medicine. Hosted by the Wellness Council, the event was held Nov. 18 in the MacQueen Alumni Center Grand Ballroom. 

Caleb Phillips performed a piano solo.

Performance highlights included original poetry, a clarinet/flute duet, two solo singers, a piano solo, and a band comprising first- and second-year medical students. Several artists displayed photography, digital art, paintings, crocheted work, and embroidery, cross-stitch and sewing projects. Also on display were graphite portraits and narratives from the INTO LIGHT Alabama art exhibition, which features people from Alabama who have died from substance use disorder.

Waleed Saoud, Wellness Council president, and Tessa Allen, vice president, expressed their gratitude to all the artists who participated this year. 

“It was because of their hard work and dedication that we were able to host an event with such high energy and enthusiasm for the fusion between the humanities and medicine,” they said. “We hope to continue to expand on this event and look forward to seeing even more amazing contributions at Art of Medicine 2026.”

View more photos from the event on Flickr.

Whiddon COM staff present on success of novel resiliency programming

LoRen Modisa, Ed.D., MPA, and Tiquera Hall, Ph.D., MPA

LoRen Modisa, Ed.D., MPA, and Tiquera Hall, Ph.D., MPA, from the Whiddon College of Medicine's Office of Health Advancement, recently showcased their innovative research at the 2025 Association of Medical Education Learning Specialists Annual Meeting in San Antonio, Texas.

Their presentation detailed early success of a novel resiliency program adapted from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This program is specifically designed to enhance student well-being and academic persistence through structured training tailored for pre-medical, medical, and Ph.D. students at the college. The initiative, housed within the Office of Health Advancement, integrates evidence-based strategies to equip learners with essential skills for managing stress, maintaining motivation, and navigating the intense demands of rigorous academic life.

The program's crucial, and often missing, elements address topics vital for success in medicine, including:

• Imposter syndrome
• Feedback resilience and mentorship
• Establishing personal and professional boundaries
• Identifying cognitive distortions
• Developing professional identity

The programming was initially introduced to Whiddon COM Ph.D. students. Since then, it has begun phased implementation within the college's pre-matriculation pathway programs and medical bridge programs, such as PRE-Path and Rx for Success. Early results indicate strong student engagement and a positive impact on both academic and personal development.

Moving forward, Modisa and Hall plan to formalize their resiliency programming framework, continue data collection with the pre-medical undergraduates in the pathway programs, and expand session offerings to a wider audience of medical and Ph.D. students. This research and programming underscores Whiddon College of Medicine’s commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment and advancing holistic, student-centered approaches to medical education.

Whiddon COM shares ILP innovations at national meeting on medical education

Kristy Motte, Ed.D.; Kay Lynn Ceja, Ph.D.; and Angie O'Neal, M.Ed., present at the Association of Medical Education Learning Specialists annual meeting. 

At the 2025 Association of Medical Education Learning Specialists (MELS) annual meeting, held Nov. 5–7 in San Antonio, Angie O’Neal, M.Ed., director of learning support services at the Whiddon College of Medicine, joined two national colleagues to lead a workshop on strengthening individualized learning in medical education.

O’Neal co-presented the 60-minute session, “Bridging the Gap: Integrating Individual Learning Plans (ILPs) into Everyday Best Practices,” alongside Kristy Motte, Ed.D., instructional assistant professor and director of academic success at Texas A&M University, and Kay Lynn Ceja, Ph.D., senior director of learning skills at Charles R. Drew University College of Medicine.

The workshop explored the integration of ILPs into everyday practice to enhance the development of Master Adaptive Learners. Participants engaged in interactive activities, discussions, and explored practical examples from all three institutions to understand how MELS can be involved in the creation and implementation of effective ILPs in undergraduate medical education as preparation for the transition to graduate medical education.

O’Neal shared the evolution of the Whiddon COM’s ILP program, which she was hired to establish in August 2023. Since then, medical students in all four years have been creating and utilizing individual learning plans. 

“Individual learning plans are vital in medical education because they help students take ownership of their development,” O’Neal said. “By identifying their own areas for improvement — using reflection on competencies and the feedback they've received — and creating intentional steps for growth, students build the reflective habits they’ll depend on throughout residency and beyond. Believing in the power of this process, I joined with two remarkable colleagues to share our work with fellow learning specialists, hoping to inspire others to bring ILPs back to their institutions.”  

O’Neal also presented two visuals highlighting the Whiddon COM’s ILP program: a timeline of the program’s implementation (below) and a student timeline showing how ILPs are introduced and revisited throughout all four years of medical school (above).

Annual Care Closet clothing and shoe donation drive begins Dec. 4

Care Closet, an annual clothing and shoe donation drive organized by a multidisciplinary team at USA Health University Hospital, collected more than 150 bags of items last year. For the third annual drive, donations will stay in-house to create an on-site facility at University Hospital for patients in need. 

Make a meaningful difference in our patients’ lives by donating new or gently used clothing and shoes (for adults and children) from Thursday, Dec. 4 through Wednesday, Dec. 10 at these designated drop-off points: internal medicine seventh-floor lounge at UH; the Mastin second-floor medical student office; and outside the Moorer Building. 

Please place donations in multiple small white kitchen garbage bags. The UH Care Closet team will process donations. 

Email carecloset@health.southalabama.edu or reach out to any contacts listed on the flyer with direct donation pickup requests or any questions. 

Medical students bring fresh perspective to Peer Helper Jubilee

Chris Novellino, Hannah Hill and Paras Ahuja

Three medical students from the Whiddon College of Medicine's Peer Emotional and Educational Resilience Support (PEERS) program delivered a standout presentation at this year's Peer Helper Jubilee. Hosted by the Jennifer Claire Moore Foundation, the annual event brought more than 750 middle school and high school peer helpers from across Baldwin County to Orange Beach in early November.

In their session, “From the Field to the Hallway: Who’s Got Your Back,” fourth-year student Hannah Hill, third-year student Paras Ahuja, and second-year student Chris Novellino explored the often-overlooked distinctions — and complementary strengths — of mentors and peer supporters in a student’s academic and personal journey. 

The students drew from their own experiences navigating high-pressure academic environments and being a peer supporter. They opened by highlighting a core idea: Mentors and peer supporters are both essential, but they play fundamentally different roles.

“Mentors,” Hill explained, “provide experienced, long-term guidance. They see the big picture and help students make strategic decisions about academics, career pathways, and long-term goals. They help students zoom out.”

Novellino added, “Peer supporters, on the other hand, are the ones in the trenches with you — the classmates, teammates, and friends who understand real-time struggles because they’re living the same ones. They offer immediacy, empathy, and relatability. They help students zoom in.”

The session emphasized that students thrive when they have both: mentors who’ve walked the path before them, and peers who walk beside them.

Throughout the presentation, the medical students encouraged attendees to intentionally seek out and strengthen both types of relationships. They spoke on how to:

• Leverage mentors for academic and career planning
• Navigate social pressures and identity with the support of trusted peers
• Set personal goals and find supporters who invest selflessly

The trio also shared personal stories of burnout, isolation, community, and resilience — demonstrating how mentorship and peer support had shaped their own paths from undergraduate life to medical school. Their candor and relatability sparked meaningful discussion among students and chaperones. 

“It was so wonderful to see how attentive and engaged students were,” Ahuja said. “As med students who were in their shoes a few years ago, getting to talk with them was a privilege.”

The session closed with a challenge: Become the kind of peer supporter you once needed. Build a culture where students uplift one another; where support comes not just from those ahead but also from those beside.

For many attendees, the presentation was a highlight of the Jubilee — a reminder that leadership, compassion, and connection are skills that grow stronger when shared.

BMS graduate students take part in new professional development series

Ph.D. students in the Basic Medical Sciences Graduate Program participate in Beyond the Bench.

The Office of Research, Education and Training has launched a new professional development series, Beyond the Bench: Mapping Your Career DNA, designed to equip Ph.D. students, postdocs and recent graduates with the tools they need to navigate their next steps with confidence.

The initiative was developed in response to requests from Christopher Davies, Ph.D., associate dean for research, current students, and former members of the Basic Medical Sciences Graduate Society, all of whom emphasized the need for structured career-preparation opportunities. Haley Kominek, a former officer in the BMS Graduate Society, played a key role in bringing the series to life, with strong support from Alani Rodgers, Ed.D., and Adam Barnes in USA Career Development.

The inaugural session focused on the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Readiness Competencies, a set of core skills identified as essential for career success across industries. Participants also learned about additional career resources and support services available right here at South.

The session was led by Barnes, assistant director of career development, who provided practical guidance on how students can begin strengthening these competencies during their training and throughout their professional journeys.

Beyond the Bench will continue throughout the year, offering workshops and conversations to help trainees explore diverse career pathways, build professional skills, and prepare for both academic and non-academic opportunities.

More information about upcoming sessions will be shared soon.