Milestones in Medicine: Year-End Celebrations for Health Professions Programs
By Office of the President | May 23, 2024
The School of Health Professions’ Occupational Therapy program recently celebrated its 22nd Master’s Project Day, themed “A Day of Scholarship and Recognition.” This event highlighted the achievements of second-year students, celebrating their completion of Master’s Projects and the acceptance of their white coats.
The day opened with a welcome from Joyce Sabari, Ph.D., Professor Emeritus and former OT department chair, followed by a keynote address delivered by Regina Zick, MSOT, OTR/L, Class of 2018.
The event focused on the presentation of master’s projects completed by second-year students who showcased their research on various topics, including occupational therapy practice, healthcare disparities, and community-based programs. The accompanying posters demonstrated proficiency in research methods, critical thinking, and presentation skills.
Another significant highlight was the White Coat Ceremony, marking the end of the students’ didactic coursework and symbolizing their transition into six months of intensive clinical fieldwork. As the students donned their white coats and recited the Occupational Therapy Pledge, they committed to upholding the professional standards and humanistic values of their field.
The Diagnostic Medical Imaging Program also hosted its annual Ultrasound Research Colloquium, featuring international guest speaker Prof. Christian Enzensberger, University Hospital RWTH Aachen, Praenatal AIX Medical Director who spoke about “Artificial Intelligence in Obstetric Sonography.”
Senior students presented case studies and original research conducted in collaboration with faculty, attended by sonographers, alums, and preceptors from the New York City area. The annual Colloquium attracts sonographers to learn about the latest trends and network and earn CME credits. Topics included fetal echocardiography, neuro-sonography, musculoskeletal ultrasound, cardiac, gynecological, and abdominal case studies. Sessions also addressed burnout, job trends, and workplace challenges.
I extend thanks to Physiology & Pharmacology Department Research associate professor Rena Orman, Ph.D.; Arthur Babayan, M.D., Ph.D., and Veneta Callpani, MA, BS, RDMS, DMI faculty members; Jacki Li, BS, RDMS, RVT, Clinical Assistant Professor and Co-Clinical Coordinator; Iryna Struk, MS, RDMS, RDCS, RVT; Clinical Assistant Professor and interim clinical coordinator; Richard Yannotta, BA, RDCS, RVT, and Nakisha Thomas, MPA, DMI Department administrator, and Yosefa Pessin, DHSc, MS, RDMS, RDCS, RVT, DMI chair.
These crucial events underscored the School of Health Professions’ commitment to academic excellence and innovation in healthcare education. Thank you to all who contributed!