Bruder honored for significant contributions to cardiovascular research

Thiago Bruder, Ph.D., focuses his research on the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in the development and progression of cardiovascular disease.

By Lindsay Hughes

Thiago Bruder, Ph.D., an assistant professor of physiology and cell biology at the Whiddon College of Medicine, recently received the Harry Goldblatt Award for New Investigators from the American Heart Association (AHA). The prestigious award, sponsored by the Council on Hypertension, recognizes an early-career independent investigator who has significantly contributed to the understanding of the causes of hypertension and related cardiovascular disease. 

“The award is deeply important for my career, as it provides national and international recognition of the research we are conducting on vascular biology and blood pressure regulation,” Bruder said. “It not only acknowledges the impact of our current findings but also positions our lab as a contributor to shaping the future of hypertension research.” 

“On a personal level,” Bruder added, “being honored early in my independent career enhances visibility within the cardiovascular community, strengthens opportunities for collaboration, and supports the competitiveness of future funding applications. Most importantly, it reinforces my commitment to mentoring the next generation of scientists, giving me the opportunity to inspire trainees in the same way I was once inspired by the pioneers of this field.”

Thiago Bruder, Ph.D., presents at the

AHA Hypertension Scientific Sessions.

Bruder also had the opportunity to present a lecture during the AHA’s Hypertension Scientific Sessions, held in Baltimore in early September. In his lecture, he shared how he began his career in a cardiovascular pharmacology and physiology research lab and expressed gratitude to the mentors who have guided him since his undergraduate studies in Brazil. He then presented some of his lab’s published and unpublished findings on endothelial biology and blood pressure regulation.

“This lecture was a truly unique opportunity,” Bruder said, “as many of the leading cardiovascular scientists I have long admired — and whose manuscripts I studied as a graduate student — were in the audience.” 

The award is named after Harry Goldblatt, M.D., a pathologist who established the first experimental model of hypertension in 1934. This model laid the foundation for much of today’s research in blood pressure regulation. “To be honored in his name is truly priceless,” Bruder said.

Troy Stevens, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Department of Physiology and Cell Biology at the Whiddon College of Medicine and director of the USA Center for Lung Biology, was among those who nominated Bruder for the award.

In addition to Stevens, nominators were Bruder’s postdoctoral mentor Eric Belin de Chantemele, D.Sc., Regents Professor at Augusta University; and Rhian Touyz, MBBCh, Ph.D., executive director and chief scientific officer of the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre in Montreal, Canada.

“I am deeply grateful to be named the 2025 Harry Goldblatt Award recipient and especially thankful to my lab members — both current and former trainees — whose dedication, creativity, and hard work have been essential to this recognition.”

Bruder, who is a Fellow of the American Heart Association, joined the Whiddon College of Medicine faculty in 2024. His lab is dedicated to investigating the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in the development and progression of cardiovascular disease, as well as discovering both therapeutic and non-therapeutic approaches to mitigate its effects. 

He earned a Ph.D. in pharmacology from the University of São Paulo in Brazil. He completed postdoctoral research in physiology at Augusta University in Augusta, Georgia. 

Hospitalist Van Court joins internal medicine faculty

Blake Van Court, M.D.

By Milena Mata

USA Health recently welcomed Blake Van Court, M.D., a board-certified hospitalist who treats patients at University Hospital. 

As a native of south Louisiana, Van Court said he is excited to return to the Gulf Coast.  

“I chose hospital medicine because it is the perfect union of human physiology and patient-centered care,” Van Court said. “The best part of being a hospitalist is being able to take care of your local community during their most vulnerable times and knowing that you're making a difference in the lives of people around you.”

Van Court will also serve as an assistant professor of internal medicine at the Whiddon College of Medicine. He has collaborated on numerous research publications and is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine. 

“Academic medicine allows me to give back to the newest generation of future physicians,” he said. 

Van Court said the ever-evolving nature of medicine pushes him to stay updated on new technologies and advances in medicine, which in turn helps his trainees become great physicians. “To see your trainees grow into excellent physicians is the most satisfying reward a teacher can have,” he said.  

Van Court earned his medical degree from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. He completed residency training in internal medicine at Wake Forest University School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, North Carolina.  

Class of 2029 elects top officers and M1 representatives

Class of 2029 officers and representatives

By Lindsay Hughes

The Whiddon College of Medicine Class of 2029 recently elected its leaders, choosing classmates who are committed to building community, amplifying student voices, and supporting one another through the challenges ahead.

Caroline Lloyd, president

As president of the class, Caroline Lloyd hopes to be both a strong advocate and a steady source of encouragement for her classmates.

“I will work with the officer team to ensure that the voices of each student are heard, and to ensure that each student remains educated on and excited about all the goings-on and the future of the Whiddon COM,” Lloyd said. “I will also do my best to foster relationships among classmates that go deeper than being study buddies; I want each of my classmates to feel they have someone to turn to for whatever they need, whether that be encouragement, support, or just someone to go on a walk with.” 

She knows firsthand how important those connections are. “Medical school is so hard, and I know that real human friendships are necessary to maintain wellness during such a trying time,” she said.

Lloyd’s decision to run for office was inspired by the profound impact her peers have had on her and the friendships she's built in such a short time.

“Those relationships will surely continue to support me through the rest of my medical education and career,” she said. “I decided to step into a leadership role so that I can be an active part of ensuring that camaraderie continues to grow and flourish for the benefit of each student.”

That sense of belonging is also what drew Lloyd to Whiddon COM in the first place. She recalls feeling the college’s commitment to student success from her first interview.

“Each faculty member is deeply invested in the success of each student, and that is displayed in every lecture, lab session, and even in every passing conversation in the hallway,” she said. “I truly do feel that the Whiddon COM is a family that I have been welcomed into with open arms.”

Maddie Katona, vice president

For Maddie Katona, leadership begins with creating an environment where her classmates feel supported, encouraged and valued. As vice president, Katona hopes to help her peers find confidence in their abilities while building resilience for the challenges of medical school.

“I want our classmates to feel appreciated for their talents, motivated to embrace challenges, and confident to help others,” Katona said. “I understand that each person has unique and essential attributes that help to enrich Whiddon COM’s values and goals, so I hope that Caroline and I can help cheer on our classmates and help them build the confidence and resilience they need to pursue their purpose in medicine.”

Katona was inspired to pursue a leadership role after her sister encouraged her to take the leap. As the oldest sibling, she naturally gravitates toward helping others grow, whether offering advice, motivating a team, or celebrating someone’s strengths. 

Her experiences leading a collegiate athletic team reinforced that calling. “It was incredibly rewarding to be someone my teammates trusted to support and inspire them in their personal, academic and athletic endeavors,” she said. “That’s the type of person I hope to be for my medical school class and for my president.”

Katona’s decision to attend Whiddon COM was shaped by her interviews with faculty, which showed her how deeply the school values its students. Conversations with John Hinton, M.D., assistant professor of neurology, ranged from cartography and ancient manuscripts to stargazing and early American exploration. Natalie Bauer, Ph.D., assistant dean for admissions and associate professor of pharmacology, asked thoughtful questions about family, books and volunteer experiences.

“I could tell that the faculty at South genuinely cares about their students, wants to help them explore their interests, and wants to see them succeed,” Katona said. “I wanted to be a part of an environment like that.”

Class of 2029 officers and M1 representatives:

• President: Caroline Lloyd 
• Vice President: Madeleine “Maddie” Katona
• Secretary: Madi Webb
• Treasurer: Seth Stewart
• SGA Liaison: Caroline Weisenfeld
• Intramural Chairs: Will Beams, Ben Estrada and Miles Hunt
• Social Chairs: David Blackburn, Caley Caldwell and Cade Meyers
• Community Service Chairs: Nate Fehrmann and Kaleigh Miller
• Internet Technical Officer: Brayan Fortunato
• Wellness Officers: Lauren Assaf, Jayne Freeman, Peyton Jacobs and Anna Grace Johnson
• Honor Council: Logan Brewer, Andrew Monk, Julian Smith and Mary Liz Hill
• Merchandise Chair: Odalys Ordonez Medina
• Review of Systems Yearbook Editor: Melanie Calderon Bernuy

Graduate student receives competitive AHA travel award, presents research on hypertension

Tyler Beling and Thiago Bruder, Ph.D.

By Lindsay Hughes

Tyler Beling, a second-year student in the Whiddon College of Medicine’s Basic Medical Sciences Graduate Program, recently received a Hypertension New Investigator Travel Award from the American Heart Association (AHA). 

Beling’s submitted abstract received one of the highest scores from the Council on Hypertension, earning her not only the highly competitive travel award but also an invitation to present her work at the AHA’s Hypertension Scientific Sessions, held in Baltimore in early September.

Her study demonstrated that endothelial cells produce high levels of progranulin — a molecule traditionally linked to adipose tissue and the central nervous system — which helps protect the vasculature and maintain blood pressure.

“The conference was such a valuable experience,” she said, “full of exciting science, insightful discussions, networking opportunities, and personal growth. It’s an experience I’ll always treasure.”

Beling, who is in the graduate program’s Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Biology track, works in the lab with faculty mentor Thiago Bruder, Ph.D., an assistant professor of physiology and cell biology. 

“At this stage of her career, this represents a truly exceptional achievement,” Bruder said. “She delivered an outstanding presentation, showcasing not only her strong command of the science but also her skills as an articulate and confident speaker. Tyler responded thoughtfully and accurately to all questions from colleagues, leaving an excellent impression. Following her talk, I received many positive comments from peers who admired her control of both the research and her delivery.”

Receiving the award “was such a joyful moment,” Beling said. “At first I felt pure excitement, quickly followed by a deep sense of fulfillment that the work we're doing is both valuable and being recognized. You always hope your efforts are meaningful, but having it acknowledged with an award makes it even sweeter. I was, and still am, truly grateful.”

Beling said it was an honor to share the lab’s work with leaders in the field of cardiovascular research, and she is appreciative of the lab team’s support, especially her mentor, Bruder.  

“I’ve learned so much in such a short time, and it’s truly an environment that encourages growth with continuous forward momentum,” she said. “I’m really grateful that Dr. Bruder encouraged me, as well as my lab mates, to take this opportunity head on.”

Originally from South Africa, Beling earned a bachelor's degree in quantity surveying from the University of the Free State in Bloemfontein, South Africa, and a Master of Science in kinesiology from Boise State University in Boise, Idaho.

Lunch & Learn session to focus on promotion and tenure

The Office of Faculty Affairs and Faculty Development invites Whiddon College of Medicine faculty to a Lunch & Learn session on “Promotion & Tenure.” 

The session is set for Wednesday, Oct. 1, from noon to 1:30 p.m. in the Strada Patient Care Center first-floor conference room. 

Email Alice Nolen at anolen@southalabama.edu to sign up for this session.

MATE Act substance use disorder training set for Oct. 10

The USA Office of Continuing Medical Education will host the MATE Act training on substance use disorder on Oct. 10 at 11:30 a.m. at the USA Office of CME located at 650 Clinic Drive, Suite 1100. 

The Medication Access and Training Expansion (MATE) Act requires physicians, including residents and fellows, and other healthcare professionals who prescribe controlled substances, to complete a one-time training on the treatment and management of patients with opioid or other substance use disorders.   

The Oct. 10 training will cover opioid prescribing trends in Alabama, evidence-based prescribing practices, and ways to recognize signs of substance misuse. The event is designed for healthcare providers interested in expanding their knowledge and improving patient care. 

Seats for the class are limited, and early registration is encouraged. To register or download the event brochure, visit: https://bit.ly/USAMATE25. 

For more information, contact the USA Office of CME at cme@southalabama.edu. 

Whiddon COM announces Class of 2026 Aequitas Health Medical Honor Society Fellows

The Whiddon College of Medicine has announced the selection of eight exceptional medical students from the Class of 2026 as Fellows of the Aequitas Health Medical Honor Society. These individuals have demonstrated a deep and sustained commitment to promoting optimal health for all through leadership, community engagement, research, and service throughout their medical education.

Aequitas Health is a national honor society formed in 2021 in response to a collective awareness of the deep-rooted health inequities highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Its mission is to recognize and support future physicians who actively work to eliminate health inequities in all forms — across clinical care, community engagement, and advocacy.

Fellows inducted into the Whiddon College of Medicine chapter exemplify these values through a record of impact and dedication to vulnerable populations in Alabama and beyond.

Class of 2026 Fellows

• Qays Aljabi
• Ben Cockrell
• Isabella Dinelli
• Mary Faragalla
• Ryan Ford
• Chandler Hinson
• Allen Perkins
• Brandon Schonour

Addressing Health Disparities Through Action

The newly inducted Fellows have made meaningful contributions to health equity through a diverse array of projects, leadership roles, and community initiatives. Their efforts include:

• Revitalizing access to vision screening services in underserved communities through the FocusFirst program, restoring local infrastructure for early diagnosis of preventable vision impairment in children.
• Leading and expanding the Student-Run Free Clinic, providing preventive screenings, chronic disease education, and integrated care coordination for unhoused and uninsured individuals, including targeted efforts in cancer detection, mental health, and audiologic assessment.
• Conducting impactful research on social determinants of health, including projects examining trauma recovery, misdiagnosis and access gaps in autoimmune disease, geographic disparities in care delivery, and culturally informed palliative care.
• Launching health promotion initiatives in rural and tribal communities, such as the development of nature trails to encourage physical activity, telehealth facilities for elders, and health education outreach for Native American youth and families.
• Advancing health literacy through structured education programs targeting diabetes, heart disease, and medication safety — empowering patients to manage chronic conditions more effectively.
• Engaging in health disparities curriculum reform and peer mentorship, ensuring inclusive learning environments for medical trainees and supporting the development of a more representative healthcare workforce.
• Participating in interprofessional service-learning via the AHEC Scholars Program, contributing over 80 hours of training and community outreach focused on Alabama’s medically underserved populations.

As one of their first official activities as Fellows, several of the newly inducted members participated in a panel discussion on servant leadership with the first-year medical students. This activity marked a meaningful moment of inter-class engagement and demonstrated the Fellows’ commitment to mentoring and modeling equity-driven leadership for the next generation of physicians.

“These students embody the mission of Aequitas Health and reflect the Whiddon College of Medicine’s values of service, leadership, and a commitment to advancing health for all,” said Ashley Williams Hogue, M.D., associate professor of surgery and president of the Whiddon COM Chapter of Health Aequitas. 

“We are proud to celebrate their achievements and look forward to the continued impact they will have in their careers as equity-minded physician leaders, said Franklin Trimm, M.D., associate dean of health advancement.

USA and Vanderbilt lead national conversation on neurosurgery match criteria

Members of the neurosurgery team and contributors to the research project, from left, are Ursula Hummel, P.A.; Jai Thakur, M.D.; Garrett Dyess; and Adnan Shahid, M.D.

By Jessica Jones

A team of medical students and faculty from the Whiddon College of Medicine, in collaboration with Vanderbilt University, published the first-of-its-kind qualitative and survey-based study capturing neurosurgery residency program directors’ perspectives on evaluating applicant research productivity.

The study was recently published in Cureus, a part of Springer Nature, and selected for a podium presentation at the upcoming Congress of Neurological Surgeons Annual Meeting, the largest neurosurgery conference in the world, to be held in Los Angeles in October. The outcome sheds new light on how research is weighed in the increasingly competitive residency selection process. 

Neurosurgery applicants reported record-high research output in 2024, averaging 37.4 abstracts, presentations, and publications per applicant. This surge has raised concerns about an “arms race” in research productivity, particularly in the wake of the United States Medical Licensing Step 1 Exam (USMLE) transitioning to pass/fail scoring rather than identified rankings. 

“Our findings reveal that while research is an important marker of dedication and potential, program directors place greater value on high-quality, meaningful work over sheer volume,” said Garrett Dyess, a second-year medical student at the Whiddon College of Medicine and lead author of the study. “They also consider institutional access to research opportunities, offering some reassurance for students from smaller programs.” 

The study explored program directors’ views on quality versus quantity, basic science versus clinical research, and how research is weighed before and after residency interviews. Perspectives varied on whether the current competitive climate is harmful and on potential reforms, such as capping research submissions. 

“This project represents an outstanding collaboration between medical students and faculty across institutions,” said David Williams, Ph.D., MPA, assistant dean for institutional and academic success at the Whiddon College of Medicine, who led the study’s qualitative methodology. “By increasing transparency, we hope to reduce stress and help future applicants focus on meaningful contributions rather than raw numbers.” 

Key contributors to the project include Jai Thakur, M.D., chief of minimally invasive cranial and skull base neurosurgery at USA Health and director of neurosurgery education at USA; Lola Chambless, M.D., FAANS, neurosurgery residency program director and professor of neurological surgery at Vanderbilt University and chair of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons Resident Committee; Williams; Adnan Shahid, M.D., former skull base fellow at USA Health and current pediatric neurosurgery fellow at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB); Danner Butler, M.D, former USA medical student and current UAB neurosurgery resident; Maxon Basset, fourth-year medical student at USA; Dyess; and Matthew Tao, second-year medical student at USA. 

The full study is published in Cureus and available online at cureus.com.