It is that time of year! Another group of CHP graduates have walked across the commencement stage and into the health care workforce. As friends of the College, I am certain that you are aware of the astounding staffing needs in hospitals and clinics across the country. Here in Central New York, job opportunities abound for graduates, and we are driven to help fill the needs with well-qualified professionals. This issue of Health Professions Connections highlights the work we are doing to spread the word about the wide range of careers in health care while also celebrating the success of our current students and recent graduates.
Our faculty continue to make a big impact both in and outside of the classroom. In Faculty Highlights you will learn of recent promotions, publications, grantsmanship, and award-winning presentations. Finally, in Alumni Highlights we feature the work of some of our graduates as they make a difference in the lives of others through their professional practice.
It is gratifying to work with such committed and passionate people as we strive toward the CHP mission to develop professionals through education, scholarship and service to improve the health and well-being of our diverse society. Thank you for supporting this work.
The College of Health Professions offers a dozen degree programs in some of the most sought-after health care professions--all of which play critical roles in emergency-room, life-saving settings. A number of these professions, e.g., respiratory therapy, are experiencing extreme personnel shortages. In an effort to expose high school and college students interested in science and medicine to health-profession options, other than nurse or doctor, CHP is planning more immersion events for Fall 2023 and Spring 2024.
If your high school or college is interested in participating, please contact: Susan Wright, Project Coordinator in the CHP Dean's Office at: wrightsu@upstate.edu.
Huda Al Kareem, Class of 2025: Difficult Pregnancy Leads To Career Focus
While growing up in Iraq she dreamed of a medical-related career but lacked a focus. Al Kareem immigrated to the United States in 2017 and about a year later found out she was pregnant. “It was a gift from God. It wasn’t planned or expected.”
Her first ultrasound produced more unexpected news. “They said ‘do you know you have twins?’ We didn’t! It was so exciting.”
But late in her pregnancy she began experiencing difficulties and needed to undergo an ultrasound every couple of days. Ultrasounds are performed by sonographers. Throughout the course of Al Kareem's frequent procedures she received valuable lessons in what the job entailed. “It was like a job shadow. I explored the career. I saw what the sonographer had to learn, how they worked, what the job environment was for them. I explored all of it as a patient and I liked it! I said ‘okay I want to be a sonographer.’”
Al Kareem stayed home with her twin daughter and son during their first year, taking care of them while exploring higher education options. She decided she wanted to get into SUNY Upstate Medical University’s Ultrasound program, but would need to go somewhere else for her first
Al Kareem enrolled in OCC’s Health Sciences degree program and began taking classes in the fall 2020 semester. She had learned a limited amount of English while attending school in Iraq, but had to accelerate her pace of learning while also taking challenging college-level courses. “It was very difficult, especially at the beginning. I had to learn something in English but I didn’t have a strong background. It doubles the work you do. You have to translate. In class I didn’t understand everything. I’d have to go home, translate, explain it to myself. The writing assignments were especially hard. It affected the amount of time I was studying.”
Upstate’s program required she learn a second language, and her native Arabic didn’t count. She chose Spanish, which she had to learn in English as she was learning English. She worked hard and earned “A’s” in both Spanish I and Spanish II.
Earlier this semester Al Kareem learned all of her hard work had paid off and she was one of only 7 students accepted into Upstate’s Ultrasound program. In just a couple of weeks she’ll complete her OCC degree, and in August she will begin her first semester at Upstate. “OCC was a great school for me. Everything here was amazing. I’m so proud of myself to get accepted into Upstate. I worked hard to get in and I’m confident I will do my best there and be happy.” ~written by Roger Mirabitoon May 4, 2023 for OCC Latest News.
Providing a head start in healthcare, JIHC exposes upper-level students to a wide range of health careers. Through an engaging and intensive curriculum, students build study skills and information-seeking strategies while gaining a foundational understanding of the diagnostic process and the range of treatment options.
In June 2022, CHP launched the pilot program for this month-long, hands-on intensive, which introduced a cohort of high-school students [shown above] to the health professions. This year the program has been adapted for college students.
The summer enrichment program was designed for students with an interest in health care careers and an aptitude for science. The underlying goal is to diversify the health care workforce by introducing students from underrepresented, minority backgrounds to the range of health careers that offer promising employment opportunities.The challenging, problem-based approach was selected over more conventional coursework to increase information-seeking skills and problem-solving in an interesting and engaging format.
In a March 3rd interview for Upstate New, excerpted below, Dean Katherine Beissner, PT, PhD, said the program introduces students to every element of a patient’s care as well as to the many careers within the health care field.
The students work with one patient each week, getting small amounts of information about them each day. They have to figure out a diagnosis and treatment plan by interviewing their tutors (College of Medicine students) and researching in the library.
“We want them to use good strong evidence to guide their decision making,” Beissner said. “What are the potential conditions? How do you distinguish between them? What tests do they need to order? They do a lot of learning.”
Students will spend the morning sessions working on their patient cases and the afternoon sessions in enrichment activities, exposing them to things like respiratory therapy, radiology and physical therapy. They will also work on a writing progression with a writing faculty member and work with a representative from the Office of Admissions on how to conduct an interview and how to prepare an application to apply to higher education health care programs.
“It is great exposure,” Beissner said. “Students want hands-on learning. It is the opposite of sitting in a classroom listening to lectures.”
Beissner said she developed this program to raise awareness about the many fields in health care and to bring a boost to areas with high workforce needs.
“My mission is to increase people’s awareness of a broad range of health care professions. For example, most people don’t know about respiratory therapy or radiology technologists or lab sciences. Another major driver is the need to increase the diversity of the health care workforce and make it more reflective of the population we serve.”
The program, which runs June 12 through July 14, is open to 1st and 2nd-year college students who live in Onondaga County, no matter what college they attend. Participants receive a $1,663 stipend. This year’s program is funded by Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield.
For a full look at the 2022 Jump Into Healthcare pilot program : Giving Syracuse students a “jumpstart” in healthcare.
Upstate’s Anatomical Gift Program is largely organized by students from the College of Medicine and CHP's Physical Therapy & Physician Assistant programs to acknowledge and thank families for the important role their loved ones have played in the students's medical university education.
Dr. Dewan, president of SUNY Upstate Medical University and Christopher Neville, PhD, PT, professor of Physical Therapy and CHP's executive assistant dean, greeted the families and attendees. Two board members, Billy Hentenaar, DPT 2024 and Salsabeel Khazaleh, DPT 2024 also participated in the service. Billy performed a solo piano piece for the service. Salsabeel presented a donor reflection for the audience. Amy Carpio, DPT 2025, performed a solos piece on flute. Nicholas Compoli, DPT 2024, wrote a quote that will be placed in front of the anatomy lab, alongside the previous years quote plaques. Salsabeel Khazaleh said, "The memorial service was very touching."
PODCAST: "Anatomical gift program helps educate future doctors [and physical therapists]." Informed Patient Podcast. LISTEN HERE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uUNmfd150p0
~ Adapted from previous article written by Jean Albanese for Upstate News April 12, 2023.
:- Hani Aiash, MD, PhD, associate professor of Cardiovascular Perfusion, discusses "Insomnia's Link to Heart Attacks." The Informed Patient Podcast. LISTEN HERE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9xUr1EDuMuo
- Associate professors of Physical Therapy Adam Rufa, PT, DPT,s PhD, OCS and Michelle Dolphin, PT, DPT, MS, OCS, FAAOMPT, discuss their paper, "Factors associated with the low back pain-related attitudes and beliefs of physical therapists," published with Kyle Adams and Gary Brooks in Musculoskeletal Science and Practice 58 (2022) 102518. LISTEN HERE: https://ptinquest.com/?fbclid=IwAR0YYUECEUoYaTrLo7LDvxEbK90OCWIWVFOn9DJxlPqmwIdsYRUJbx56UxQ
- Carol Sames, PhD, associate professor of Physical Therapy, gives "Warm-Weather Workout Advice." The Informed Patient Podcast. LISTEN HERE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lmz5nIJdqYo
Jesse Seeger, RT 2023, receives scholarship named in honor of best friend.
“Lucy helped me through a very difficult time. My mom, Kristine Seeger, was experiencing complications from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD),” Jessie said. “Lucy instructed us to go to Upstate University Hospital for the best pulmonologists and care. Lucy was a respiratory therapy student at Upstate and it comforted me to know that she was checking on my mom. My mom was hospitalized at Upstate and quickly passed away from pneumonia in 2018.”
Since they were young girls in Girl Scouts and teammates in soccer, Jessie was influenced by her best friend. Lucy’s mom and Jessie’s dad even coached their team. But it was the days at the horse barn as teens when Jessie realized she wanted to be like her friend.
“As equestrians, Lucy and I travelled together throughout New York with our show horses. Lucy left a mark as a best friend,” Jessie said. “As a young girl I remember saying to my grandfather – Papa, I want to do what Lucy does, ride horses.”
Less than a year after the painful loss of her mother, Jessie’s lifelong friend Lucy passed away unexpectedly due to a colloid cyst in her brain. She was 23 and a student in Upstate’s College of Health of Health Professions.
Jessie said, “It was a very surreal time in my life. I was devastated. I stopped working on my master’s degree in mental health and decided that was not my path. I was unsure what my path would be and took a six-month break.”
It was Lucy’s mom who recognized that her daughter’s best friend should work in a field of helping patients, like Lucy did. She urged her to apply to the Upstate Respiratory Therapy program – the same program from which Lucy would have graduated.
“Lucy was one of the reasons I decided to go into the field of Respiratory Therapy. This is my true passion,” Jessie said. “Lucy’s parents, Mark and Laura, were so happy to hear that I had chosen this field like their daughter.”
Jessie added, “To receive this award from the Health Professions Alumni Association was shocking. I continue to work with Laura Reff to promote organ donation as Lucy saved four lives. I am grateful to the Reff family for guiding me to the Upstate Respiratory Therapy program and for helping me find my path.”
The family of Lucy Reff opened a scholarship endowment with the Health Professions Alumni Association so Lucy would be remembered forever and to provide scholarships for second year Respiratory Therapy students at Upstate Medical University.
Read more from the Health Professions Alumni Association: https://www.upstatefoundation.org/chpalumni
To help grow the endowment, go to https://www.upstatefoundation.org/CHPAlumniAssociationNam... , choose Lucy Reff Scholarship Endowment, other, and type in Lucy Reff Scholarship Endowment, or call 315-464-4416.
Keelie Hotchkiss, having graduated this May with a Masters Degree in Behavior Analysis Studies and the highest GPA in her program, is recipient of the 2023 Academic Excellence Award. She was recently inducted into the Alpha Eta Honor Society. Keelie was raised just west of Syracuse in Jordan Elbridge, New York, where she graduated high school in 2015. Asked about childhood influences, Keelie replied, “My grandma was a huge role model. I grew up with her, watching her help anybody that came her way.” From there on, Keelie turned her attention to professions focused on helping people. “I’m also interested in how behavior works and why we, as people, do what we do."
Attending college at Syracuse University as an arts and science major, Keelie studied psychology and forensic science. She also minored in public policy at the Maxwell School. When asked how she managed the course load, she replied, “I was fortunate enough to come in with some college credit from high school. I was advised I could graduate in three years, but I wanted to stay the full four years. When I think back, I wish I could do it over again. I loved it. Growing up in Upstate New York, I wanted to get out of Syracuse, but SU made me an offer too good to refuse. Living on campus but staying close to home was probably the best decision I could’ve made.”
Immediately upon graduating in 2019, Keelie moved back home. “Originally, I planned to move to New York City; it was my dream to live in the big city. To do that, I needed to save money, so I took my first job as a substitute teacher for the Jordan Elbridge school district.” While COVID forced Keelie to change her plans, she soon discovered new opportunities. “I had a lot of placements in special education classrooms, subbing for the teacher or the aid. I really liked the work.” It was the first she had heard of behavior analysis. “Prior to that, it wasn’t on my radar. In my psychology courses at SU, they may have touched on it, but it’s not something they teach.” Working in the special-ed classrooms, Keelie decided she wanted more experience working with individuals with neuro-developmental disabilities. “I saw there was a spot open at an applied behavior analysis (ABA) clinic in Syracuse. It was during COVID, so the situation was far from typical, but I still fell in love with the work. I found what I wanted to do.”
Ever since graduating from SU, Keelie knew she wanted to apply to graduate school, but was undecided on an area of study or on a future profession. “Now, I wanted to get my BCBA (Board Certified Behavior Analyst), which was a few steps up from the RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) work I was doing at the clinic. I started looking for BCBA programs and stumbled across Upstate, which was super convenient because I was living at home in Jordan Elbridge.” The Behavior Analysis Studies program at SUNY Upstate College of Heath Professions offered everything Keelie was looking for. Students have ready access to supervisors, who are always available to answer questions. “It’s a no-judgment zone. In our clinical roles, when we encounter uncomfortable or new situations, it’s important to have people we can go to, who help us improve our skills and learn what to do in the future, so we’ll feel more comfortable in our roles. I can’t speak better about the supervisors. I feel very lucky to have been in the program.”
Now, two years later, Keelie is finally ready to leave home. “This was my last winter in Central New York.” After graduation this May, she’s starting PHD program at the University of Georgia. “My time at SUNY Upstate prepared me for my next steps, and I feel confident moving on to the PhD program. It’s possible I wouldn’t feel that way without the people and the environment that have prepared me. In this program one or two people, a supervisor or a professor—often they play the same role—become your mentor and/or a sponsor. Meeting with them each week, they end up playing a significant role in your personal life and in mapping your career goals. I cultivated relationships here I know will go beyond the walls of the Golisano Center. Moving to Georgia, they won’t disappear. I hope to work with some of my professors for a very long time.”
When asked to compare her time at Upstate to her undergraduate experience, Keelie stressed the small class size. “The BAS program is much smaller, which means students get a lot of individual support. The entire time, you get direct supervision. Instead of choosing one supervisor, you form relationships with all the supervisors. You’re exposed to people with wildly different backgrounds and experience. Each professor brings a unique perspective to the table. Students get to meet with them often and one on one.”
When asked what she likes best about the BAS program at Upstate, Keelie was quick to respond. “The faculty are nothing but amazing. They really want the best for the students.” While the students come from very different backgrounds, the small cohorts allow the faculty to tailor the program to each student’s needs. “The faculty invest their energy in helping us achieve our individual career goals. They helped me get into a PhD program. I couldn’t have asked for a better masters experience.” Keelie also referred to their new facility. “In the ABA world, our clinic, the Golisano Center for Special Needs is unusual. We have a severe behavior program and a feeding program. Having two very important sectors of ABA at the same facility, getting exposure to both, makes this program unique.”
When asked about the challenges, Keelie said, “it was difficult navigating grad school, which is very different from undergrad, while coping also with a pandemic, but I had all the support necessary to make my way through it. The biggest challenge is figuring out what works for you, and how to have a life outside of school, because that’s important.” Keelie likes music. All through college she participated in a cappella groups and music organizations. “I’m not doing as many performance-based things, but I still listen to music. I sing here and there. I also spend time outdoors... in the summer, I hike and go on walks. It’s very hilly here, so you get your steps in.”
When it comes to community, having the Golisano Center in Madison Irving location, at the north end of the main campus, has allowed the BAS program to form a nice, little community. When it comes to the larger Upstate community, Keelie’s had no trouble finding additional support or getting answers to financial aid questions. “Whatever your needs, they’re always supportive. Being part of a larger medical university means there’s always something to do. Almost daily I receive emails inviting me to clubs, activities, or seminars. There’s plenty for students to get involved in. Being in the BAS program there’s a lot of opportunity to present research and do research if that’s something you’re interested in. At the university level as well. There’s a student research day in April. They’re good at reaching out and encouraging participation.”
When asked what advice she’d give to someone considering the program, Keelie replied, “I’d tell them to consider the options. Know what you’re looking for. Ask questions. Find what’s good for you. This was an ideal situation for me. I can’t imagine a better program than this. Doing your masters is tough, but this program provides all the necessary support.”
Since entering the ABA profession, Keelie’s learned there’s a large need for services. The ABA field is growing, but globally it’s still short staffed. There’s a lack of clinics and a significant number of people who could benefit. “I guess I wasn’t aware of how many people are in need. With ABA, early intervention at a young age is so important, as well as having support throughout your life. ABA makes adjustments that may significantly improve the quality of someone’s life. We can help if we get the services out there.”
Learn more about the Behavior Analysis Studies Program and the Golisano Center for Special Needs:
https://www.upstate.edu/chp/programs/aba_ms/index.php
“Physical therapy feels like a better fit.” It allows Nicole to use her fitness training for people who need it. “It’s meaningful getting people back to the shape the were in before they lost their mobility. When they lose mobility they often feel they’ve lost a part of their identity.”
When asked about choosing an area of specialty, Nicole replied she likes everything, but she’s leaning towards orthopedics.
When asked what she liked best about the College of Health Professions, Nicole replied, “it’s integrated—you receive clinical training throughout your academic program, including hands-on, one-on-one experience with real patients at Upstate Hospital or in other settings. This program prepares you for all the different settings and opportunities you’ll encounter as a physical therapist.
Between classes, Nicole likes to hike and swim with Britt, her wife, and Becket, their two-year-old golden retriever. Nicole and Britt are recently married. They enjoy local wineries and restaurants.
Describing the CHP community, Nicole says the campus is inclusive, welcoming people regardless of race or gender orientation. “Everyone is friendly and professional. There are a lot of campus activities, including cookie making with the medical students and the respiratory students, and an event led a by a drag queen.”
When asked how she likes the professors, Nicole said, “I love our PT faculty a lot. They are super willing to teach. They have a lot of clinical experience, which makes learning easier. The ratio of professors to student is small. They’re easily accessible and go the extra mile. The professors are very knowledgeable and caring. They want you to succeed.”
"When I was in college at Syracuse University, I had an experience that made me want to pursue medical imaging. I had broken my leg in a soccer game and had to go to the hospital for x-rays. From there, I was taken into the examination room to be radiographed when I started asking the technologist all about what she does and how she likes it. After that conversation, she took my x-rays and sent me on my way. Almost exactly a year later, I had broken my leg a second time, pretty much ending my soccer career. The same technologist took my pictures, and she remembered me! After these interactions, and the situation I was in, I decided to look further into medical imaging instead of what I was originally going to school for (exercise science)."
When asked why he chose the College of Health Professions (CHP), Brandon replied: "CHP is very professional and cares about their students. They're always looking out for their students. You can always seek help when you need it." The program at CHP was different from the standard classroom-oriented degree program he experienced previously. "The Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences Program is awesome because we get a blend of the hospital clinical setting and classroom time. It accommodates all learning styles. There are hands-on labs, written examinations and clinical experiences to show your skillset and capabilities. It's a great place to learn as you are always being evaluated and critiqued, that way, when we enter the job outside of school, we are more than prepared."
"CHP offers something for every type of student. There are student government opportunities, lots of student events, and a variety of degree programs to choose from. It's a great place to attend school, and you always feel that if you need help someone will be there to help you out.
"There can be a lot of coursework at times, which can be stressful! Balancing working in the clinical setting and classroom work can be tough at times, but it is a good thing that teaches you time management skills and prioritization! Again, there are lots of ways to seek out help, and you can spend a lot of time in the library getting things done if needed!"
When asked what he does to relax between clinicals and classes, Brandon replied: "Between classes I like to attend the gym to help clear my mind and to make sure my body is feeling well enough to perform the day-to-day operations in the hospital. In addition, I have a dog, which helps keep life fun and interesting! It is important to disconnect and have some positive life experiences. During my breaks from school, I like to travel to see people and things I don’t get to see during the busy times!"
Brandon says: "The community at CHP is very friendly! Walking through the halls of our buildings, you can expect a hello from many of our students and faculty! This is something I noticed on my first day, and still notice today. Students are genuinely happy to be here and to learn."
When asked about his professors, Brandon, didn't hesitate: "Our professors in the medical imaging sciences program are incredible. They are very good at blending learning styles and making sure that we are all on track. The professors put their heart and soul into their everyday work, and it is obvious that they are working just as hard as we are. This is one of the most reassuring things to me, because it is very easy to be confused or lose track of what is going on, and they are always there, prompt and ready to help."
When asked what advice he'd give to incoming students, Brandon stated: "Set time aside for schoolwork and for yourself. It can be easy to get invested in the day-to-day work. It is always important to dedicate time to yourself, your family, and your health (both mental and physical). Time management skills are something to keep in mind here, and if you struggle with that, there are people who will help you! You are not alone!
"The program is very well designed and can challenge you in various ways. If you are willing to work, the program is willing to help you to achieve your goals. There's a lot involved, but it is very rewarding, and you may surprise yourself from time to time! There are many instances where I have seen myself personally grow, both my personality and my skillset. The program sets you up for a great career, where you can help those in need. This field is continuously evolving, so it is important to remember we are always learning!"
Since starting the program, Brandon learned that his chosen profession involves more than imaging broken bones. I've had clinical experiences in the operating room, in the fluoroscopy room, with diagnostic imaging, with interventional radiology, MRI and CT scan. There are many opportunities to learn, and to work! It is much more than just taking pictures and pushing a button, we are helping those in need and imaging the body with some amazing equipment."
Video: Brandon and other radiology students describe their profession https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YHLvHrmAs6s
Katie grew up in Mingo Junction, a small town in eastern Ohio, and graduated from high school in 2019. She knew she wanted to go into healthcare. Eastern Gateway Community College in Steubenville, Ohio, offered her scholarships that paid most of her costs. Katie enjoyed the science and physics-based curriculum. After shadowing a health professional at a local hospital, Katie decided to pursue a degree in radiologic technology. “It was cool seeing the x-ray, which allows us to look inside the human body with such detail.” She loved the radiology program. In 2021 she graduated summa cum laude from Eastern Gateway, and having passed her exams, she became a board-certified, radiologic technologist.
When asked why she wanted to go on to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Radiation Therapy, a different but related health profession, she replied: “I still plan to keep up with my radiology certification, but during the radiologic technology program I learned about radiation therapy, which uses high-energy X-rays to destroy cancerous tissue within the body. I fell in love with it.” In the last semester, during a modality rotation in radiation therapy, “a switch flipped. In x-ray you help people by completing their radiographs, but I always wondered what happened to those patients. X-ray is on the diagnostic side, the first step in figuring out something is wrong. I decided to move to the treatment side, where we form strong relationships with the patients, because we see them every day. It not only fills the need to help others, while treating their disease, we’re helping them in their darkest moments, letting them know they’re not alone. I think about it every day. Whenever the schoolwork became challenging, I would focus on the end goal—I'll get to do what I love.
“Going to clinical every day was my favorite part. "As a student radiation therapist working alongside the radiation therapists, we treated many patients with different personality types. Getting to know the patients, learning what makes them happy, you might share a couple jokes here and there. When you leave them in the treatment room and go to the control console in the adjacent room, you get to use your technical skills and your scientific knowledge to operate the linear accelerator.”
When Katie was younger, she knew in her heart she wanted to help others. “In my family, there’s a story about how quick I was, even at three-years old, to console my brother whenever he got hurt and started crying. For a short period, when my grandfather lived with us, I was eager to help him by performing small tasks a six-year-old could handle. The time spent with him every night at dinner remains some of my favorite memories.”
Katie was very happy with the Radiation Therapy Program at SUNY Upstate College of Health Professions (CHP). “First of all, it's a bachelor’s degree program. They readily accepted my coursework from my associate degree. Second, in this program, I went to many different clinical sites across New York. I lived and rotated through clinical sites in Syracuse, Rochester, and Binghamton. The Radiation Therapy program allowed me to acquire over 1300 clinical hours. You also get to stay in the same clinical setting for an extended period, so you learn the flow of things. You get to see the same people every day and form relationships."
In addition, Katie liked that CHP offers many different degree programs for an array of health professions that are critical to healthcare and in high demand. “When you meet someone from one of the other programs, you realize how diverse the health professions are. We’re all in the same college, but we’re doing different things. You learn why they chose their profession, and you realize we share the same goal to help, to provide and simply to be there for our patients. At the end of the day, we’re passionate about providing the best care to every patient.”
Katie also considers the small class sizes an advantage. “The 2023 class had ten graduates, including myself, so we got to know our professors. I always felt comfortable going to them with concerns. Our professors were always happy to help. They made sure I understood difficult lessons. They provided any guidance I needed. The professors at CHP really care about the well-being of their students. When we were away at our clinical sites, the program director, Paula Elia, asked us to fill out check-in forms to ensure that all her students were feeling well." Katie says the support during clinicals and "the opportunity to communicate any concerns about anything at all," calmed anxieties and provided students the emotional space to be excited about the material they were learning.
Katie shared how much she loves the Upstate community. “I joined a new club called the Upstate Art Alliance. Anyone from any of the Upstate colleges can join. The students in my program spent a lot of time together outside of class, which was nice, because we could ask each other questions about our lessons. We organized study groups, but when we weren’t’ studying, we went to places around Syracuse--Green Lakes, an apple orchard and the NY State Fair.
“My favorite part was being on campus all together. My first semester, I roomed with two other classmates, Paige and Maddie. We supported each other through the beginning of the first year. I made a good friend, Noelle. She’s also in the program. We became roommates. After asking to be sent to the same regions for clinicals, we continued to room together and support each other. We're still good friends."
Asked what advice she’d give to incoming students, Kate replied, “the workload may seem daunting at first. Sometimes, when you’re switching to a new clinical site, the first couple of days may be a bit shaky. Being new, you have to catch on quickly, but at the end of the day that’s why I close the program. Traveling to different sites benefits you and makes you a well-rounded radiation therapist. Every great health professional has been in your shoes as a student. This is simply the first step. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and always be eager to ask questions and immerse yourself. At the end of the day, make sure you take care of yourself. When we are healthy and have a good mindset, we can provide quality care to others." To become a good radiation therapist, "you have to have a passion for helping others in their darkest times. You need to be emotionally strong."
Katie likes that the radiation therapy field is constantly evolving. "Once we graduate and pass our boards, we need to keep up with our continuing-education credits. We'll always be learning. Since starting the program, I've learned how much radiation therapy changes over time. There are always new advancements in the field. I find that exciting."
STUDENT PUBLICATIONS & PRESENTATIONS:
Physical Therapy Student Publications:
Harry, N., Janowitz, E., Dolphin, M. (2022) Achilles tendon disorders in ballet dancers. Academy of Orthopaedic Physical Therapy. American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), Performing Arts Special Interest Group (PASIG), November 22.
Janowitz, E., Harry, N., Dolphin, M. (2023) Patellofemoral pain in ballet dancers. Academy of Orthopaedic Physical Therapy. American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), Performing Arts Special Interest Group (PASIG), Jan 23.
https://www.orthopt.org/uploads/content_files/files/Final_Elizabeth_Janowitz_Citation_Blast_Jan_2023_PDF.pdf?_zs=8Argl&_zl=vJIP2&fbclid=IwAR2dyRytrUtPr4vu2gXrxVu3FKX9njOIIGgYXoGXBZlbk0nCPeSrmnhd2IA
Physical Therapy Student Presentations:
Gibbs, E.M., Harry, N., Rosado, Z., Reeder, V., Valastro, D., Pamela W. Duncan, P.W., Klingman, K., Fulk, G.D. The Association between Sleep and the Next Day’s Activity in People with Stroke. APTA Combined Sections Meeting. San Diego, CA. Feb. 2023.
Carrier, R., Madonna, E., Greene, J., Pancari, J., Fisher, B.E., Kuo, Y.L. Examining Unimanual Contributions to Bimanual Coordination in Professional Musicians and Musically Naïve Adults. APTA Combined Sections Meeting. San Diego, CA. Feb. 2023.
Madonna, E., Neville, C. Validation of a Biofeedback Gait Training Device for use in patients with movement disorders. Combined Sections Meeting, APTA, San Diego, CA.. Feb. 2023.
Dean Beissner: “ASAHP has the important mission of raising awareness of the interprofessional nature of health care, and provides a means of meeting and working with educators across the spectrum of higher education institutions. My committee work, in particular, facilitates work with like-minded educational leaders who bring diverse experiences and perspectives together to advance initiatives that will enhance the healthcare workforce.”
Dr. Beissner is currently involved in the following committees and programs with ASAHP:
- Member, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee, Toolkit Subcommittee
- Member, Research, Discovery, and Innovation (RDI) Committee
- Chair, RDI Journal of Allied Health Subcommittee
- Member, Partnerships, Alliances, and Advocacy Committee
- Member, Advocacy Subcommittee
- Member, Journal of Allied Health Editorial Board
Transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) is a novel brain stimulation technique that employs low-risk, low-cost near-infrared light-emitting diodes (NIR LEDs). tPBM has been shown in animal experiments to have impacts on modifying brain cortical excitability and promoting brain plasticity. This method has also been clinically studied to improve cognitive function in persons with chronic traumatic brain injury and speech function in chronic stroke survivors. These animal and clinical findings motivated us to investigate the impact of tPBM on modulating cortical excitability in chronic stroke survivors in order to improve their arm and hand motor function. The study's anticipated goal is to determine distinct tPBM doses associated with cortical excitability modulatory effects, namely upregulation and downregulation. This outcome will have a significant positive impact because it will provide definite evidence-based proof of principle for further development and future clinical trials of tPBM, potentially opening up new avenues for the development of novel neuromodulation therapeutic interventions to treat sensorimotor deficits in chronic stroke survivors.
VIEW INTERVIEW: https://www.cnn.com/2023/02/24/health/insomnia-heart-attack-risk/index.html?fbclid=IwAR0vVu-VJdbgT6N0-UH8viwFyU2Bi6hk2fCpwumBAvpmS9HjLLpUAKqt8Wo
Dr. DeBlois is a CHP alumna, having earned the DPT in 2015.
In addition to departmental service responsibilities, Mr. Spooner serves on the CHP Interprofessional Research Committee and is a member of the Institutional Readiness Task Force, working toward excellence in delivery of online learning programs. He is Chair of the International Society for MR Radiographers & Technologists (ISMRT), New York Division.
Mr. Spooner is an Upstate alumnus, having earned an AAS in Radiologic Science in 1986, before going on to a BPS degree at SUNY Institute of Technology in 1996 and a MSed at SUNY Oswego in 2022. (Photo taken at 2023 Celebration of the Faculty.)
Attendees at the Toronto meeting came from the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Denmark, Sweden, Germany UK, Chile and South Africa.
The conference included lectures from experts on a variety of MRI related topics, poster presentations and a large exhibition hall with vendors showcasing the latest MRI technology.
Pictured are attendees: John Posh (Embrace), Mark Spooner (Upstate Medical University), Jim Stuppino (Animal Scan) and Charles Stanley (Guerbet).
FACULTY PUBLICATIONS & PRESENTATIONS:
Cardiovascular Perfusion Faculty Publications:
Hasan, W., Addo, A., Karabegovic, A., Van Buren, A., Avanti, M., Dean, Y.E.,Tanas, Y., Shah, J., Elbahaie A., Aiash, H. (2023) Efficacy and interactions of anti-oxidant supplements in cancer patients during and after radiation therapy: a systematic review. Tumori Journal 109 (1) suppl. https://doi.org/10.1177/03008916231152348
Cardiovascular Perfusion Faculty Presentations:
Aiash, H. Insomnia and Heart Attack (Do We Need to Add Insomnia as Modifiable Risk Factor to Ischemic Heat Disease?). Kuwait International Family Medicine Conference. Salmiya, Kuwait. May 2023.
Clinical Lab Sciences Faculty Publications:
Ramcharran, H., Bates, J.H.T., Satalin, J., Blair, S., Andrews, P.L., Gaver, D.P., Gatto, L.A., Wang, G., Ghosh, A.J., Robedee, B., Vossler, J., Habashi, N.M., Daphtary, N., Kollisch-Singule, M., Nieman, G. (2022) Protective ventilation in a pig model of acute lung injury: timing is as important as pressure. Journal of Applied Physiology 133 (5) pp. 1093-1105. https://doi.org/10.1152/japplphysiol.00312.2022
Physical Therapy Faculty Publications:
Harry, N., Janowitz, E., Dolphin, M. (2022) Achilles tendon disorders in ballet dancers. Academy of Orthopaedic Physical Therapy. American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), Performing Arts Special Interest Group (PASIG) Nov 22.
Janowitz, E., Harry, N., Dolphin, M. (2023) Patellofemoral pain in ballet dancers. Academy of Orthopaedic Physical Therapy. American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), Performing Arts Special Interest Group (PASIG) Jan 23.
https://www.orthopt.org/uploads/content_files/files/Final_Elizabeth_Janowitz_Citation_Blast_Jan_2023_PDF.pdf?_zs=8Argl&_zl=vJIP2&fbclid=IwAR2dyRytrUtPr4vu2gXrxVu3FKX9njOIIGgYXoGXBZlbk0nCPeSrmnhd2IA
Orlando, A., Dolphin, M. (2022) Survey of Physical Fitness Among U.S. Collegiate Dancers. National Dance Society Journal. 7(1).
Physical Therapy Faculty Presentations:
Kim, B., Schweighofer, N., Winstein, C.J., Development of a 6-Item Wolf Motor Function Test: Measurement Structure and Validity. APTA Combined Sections Meeting. San Diego, CA. Feb. 2023
Carrier, R., Madonna, E., Greene, J., Pancari, J., Fisher, B.E., Kuo, Y.L. Examining Unimanual Contributions to Bimanual Coordination in Professional Musicians and Musically Naïve Adults. APTA Combined Sections Meeting. San Diego, CA. Feb. 2023.
Wentz, E.E., Young, D.K., Hoose, D.L. Hands-on Integrated Experience Improves Student Self-Efficacy and Clinical Performance in Pediatric Physical Therapy Education.
Young, D.K., Tarsal Therapeutics: Remedies for Troubled Feet. Combined Sections Meeting, APTA, San Diego, CA.. Feb. 2023. APTA Combined Sections Meeting. San Diego, CA. Feb. 2023.
Neville, K.M., L. Miller, K.L. Thicker Than Water: Antithrombotic Medications in Rehabilitation. APTA Combined Sections Meeting. San Diego, CA. Feb. 2023.
Madonna, E., Neville, C. Validation of a Biofeedback Gait Training Device for use in patients with movement disorders. APTA Combined Sections Meeting, APTA, San Diego, CA.. Feb. 2023.
Following her graduation last August, but prior to certification, Kate was offered a position as an ABA instructor at a residential school in the area for adolescents with disabilities. “Now that I have my board certification, I’m able to practice at the school as a BCBA, where I develop behavior programming and provide services for my students.” At the moment, Kate is happy in her work. “It allows me to grow as a clinician and build relationships in a new setting.”
Fortunately, behavior analysis is an ever expanding field, so Kate will always have the option to advance. “My long-term goal is to go back to school and get my doctorate but I’m not sure what area I want to focus on for my PhD. I need a little more clinical experience before going back to school.” Until then, Kate will continue in her current position.
Kate discovered her chosen profession during her junior year of college, when she was selected for a 10 week internship working with professors, Henry S. Roane, PhD, BCBA-D, and Andrew Craig, PhD, BCBA-D, at Golisano Center for Special Needs. “That experience in the field made me want to pursue a degree in Behavior Analysis Studies.” She decided on the BAS program at the College of Health Professions (CHP) because she knew those same faculty would be her teachers.
When asked what she liked best about CHP, Kate didn’t hesitate. “I like the small cohort size. When I heard about the class sizes, I felt really hopeful because I learn better in small-group settings. You get to work closely with the faculty, who are all clinicians at Golisano. I really liked all of the professors at CHP. In every class I took, I was able to get the help I needed.”
Kate also remarked on the excellent hands-on clinical experience. “That’s really important for the type of degree you’re getting. You need good clinical experience. My entire time at Upstate, I was engaged with the faculty in some form of research. For instance, I was part of the Behavior Analysis Murine Laboratory, where we study rats and mice. I got to look at the underlying mechanisms that might contribute to behavioral processes. When it comes to individuals with developmental disabilities, there’s a large need for research. We’re still learning so much. It’s a very underserved population.
To anyone considering the program, Kate says, “get as much out of it as you can. Grad school is what you make of it, even though you have classes and a set structure, it's really up to you to make it your own. Take advantage of the opportunities given to you.
Behavior analysts provide services that make an important difference in peoples’ lives. The Behavior Analysis Studies (BAS) Program in the College of Health Professions equips students with the skills necessary to work with diverse populations, including individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Recently, the BAS program underwent a curricular revision to shorten the program from two years to one year. The goal with the revision is to continue to provide students with rigorous training while helping them to enter the workforce faster. The need for behavior analysts is on the rise in Central New York and nationally. CHP's students help to meet those needs.
Learn more: https://www.upstate.edu/chp/programs/aba_ms/index.php
Upstate Physical Therapist Named Health Care Professional of the Year
Upstate Medical University physical therapist and and CHP Alum, Mindy Heath, PT, DPT '14, has been named Health Care Professional of the Year. The honors comes from New York State United Teachers. Already armed with an undergraduate degree from SUNY Oswego, Heath enrolled in Upstate’s College of Health Professions, earned her doctorate in physical therapy and shortly after joined Upstate’s Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation staff. She joined Upstate in 2014. She also volunteers as an EMT for the Minetto Fire Department.
Heath’s coworkers and supervisors praised her work and her dedication to her patients.
Said Melissa Murphy: "Mindy is a hard-working member of the Acute Care Team at Upstate University Hospital. She demonstrates dedication and compassion while providing skilled quality care to her patients.”
Lori Holmes also praised applauded Mind's honor: “Mindy is a skilled, dedicated physical therapist. She seeks to provide the highest quality of care to her patients and ensures their rehabilitation needs are met to allow them to reach their goals.”
Of Heath's work ethic, NYSUT offered: “Through an unprecedented global pandemic; a personal battle with breast cancer; and raising three children, Heath has continually proved her steadfast support for her union and unwavering dedication to providing high-quality care for her patients."
~Written by Darryl Geddes, Published on Thursday, May 11, 2023 in Upstate News
Alumnus and Faculty Member, Joseph Micca, DPT ’13, PT, SCS
Part of medical team that saved the life of Damar Hamlin, SUNY Upstate Medical University College of Health Professions Class of ’13 DPT alumnus and faculty member, Joseph Micca, keeps Buffalo Bills playing at highest potential.
While Joseph Micca, DPT ’13, PT, SCS, is ardent about the game of football, he also knows firsthand of the risks that come with the sport. Micca is part of a team of medical professionals in readiness at every Buffalo Bills game, including the January 2023 game in Cincinnati when Damar Hamlin went into cardiac arrest.
“It was a tense situation, but is something we practice and drill,” Micca said. “Many individuals were involved in saving Damar's life. I'm proud to be a member of such a great team of medical professionals and player care staff.”
Hamlin thanked Micca and all medical staff who assisted him in his recovery in a video that quickly went viral. “He is a brave young man and continues to improve,” Micca said.
Micca works with the entire Bills team in an active physical therapy treatment program to keep them playing at their maximum capacity.
Micca began his career with the Bills’ athletic training staff in 2016, and just completed his seventh season as physical therapist and rehabilitation coordinator. He is a board-certified sports specialist. Prior to joining the Buffalo Bills, Micca worked with the Pittsburgh Steelers for the 2014 season. The lifesaving experience at the start of 2023 is the pinnacle of Micca’s career so far.
When Micca began his education in the field of physical therapy at Upstate Medical University, he wanted to follow his ambition: to work with athletes, as he is an athlete himself, and have a positive impact on the lives of the players. While Micca knew he wanted a career in healthcare and was willing to dedicate his life to it, he wasn’t always certain of which program he would pursue. It was a teammate’s influence and Micca’s experience at Upstate that led Micca to the career that was meant for him. Today, Micca gives much credit to Upstate’s College of Health Professions for his success.
“The College of Health Professions Physical Therapy program pushed me in a great way,” said Micca. “It prepared me to take the required steps and propelled me in the right direction. I was influenced by highly reputable PT faculty members - Dr. Michelle Dolphin, Dr. Adam Rufa, Dr. Dale Avers, and Dr. Christopher Neville, to name a few.” All of them helped prepare Micca on his path to the NFL.
College of Health Professions Assistant Dean and Physical Therapy Associate Director Michelle Dolphin, DPT ’07, PT, MS, OCS, FAAOMPT, said, “As a doctoral student, Dr. Micca was extremely focused and driven. He identified early that post-professional education (residency and fellowship) were tracks that would serve his future patients well.”
“What is remarkable about Joe as a student was his singular focus on his dream to be a sports physical therapist with the NFL while being grounded in his love for family and home,” said Dale Avers, PhD, DPT, PT, FAPTA, professor emerita of Physical Therapy Education, College of Health Professions, “I admire his drive to be excellent and stay grounded.”
“Dr. Micca was a great student who was very passionate about treating athletes. I remember being impressed when he and a few classmates developed a study investigating an injury prevention screening tool. They were able to design the study, perform the testing and get it published,” recalled Adam Rufa, DPT ’08, PT, PhD, OCS, interim chair and associate professor of PT Education at Upstate’s College of Health Professions. “It has been exciting to see how successful he has been since leaving Upstate, and we are so thankful that he gives back to the program by sharing his expertise with our students as an adjunct professor.”
Growing up on the east side of Rochester, NY, Micca played high school football, among other sports, and continued with college football at John Carroll University in Cleveland, OH. While at JCU, he was a semifinalist for college football’s premier scholar-athlete award before starting at Upstate. Micca’s JCU football teammate Michael Bogden persuaded him to consider the field of physical therapy.
“After Upstate, I completed my residency at the University of Pittsburgh. Their reputation of having the best Physical Therapy program in the country is paralleled with my experience at Upstate Medical University. I saw many similarities between both programs,” Micca said. “We are lucky to have a university like Upstate in New York.”
In addition to the opportunities received at the College of Health Professions, Micca also created his own. “While I was a student at Upstate, I sought opportunities and spent time in places that interested me to help determine if sports physical therapy was the right path for me. I observed the athletic trainer for the Onondaga Community College basketball team and did all I could with opportunities around me. I encourage healthcare students to do the same,” Micca said.
Dr. Dolphin noted, “Together with alumnus Dr. Sean Bardenett, Dr. Micca and I teach a hybrid Sports PT elective each fall that is eagerly anticipated by current students. Dr. Micca is an inspirational therapist and down-to-earth compassionate person. We share a commitment to humility and lifelong learning.”
Dr. Avers added, “Joe’s commitment to community extends to his Upstate family and the way he gives back through his teaching and student mentoring. Joe is a quality guy…just the best!”
“It is a true pleasure to know Dr. Micca as an Upstate DPT graduate and as a colleague. I am honored that he considers me one of his mentors,” Dolphin said.
To learn more about the Physical Therapy program at Upstate Medical University College of Health Professions: https://www.upstate.edu/chp/programs/pt/index.php
To learn more about College of Health Professions Alumni:
https://www.upstatefoundation.org/CHPAlumniintheNews
To support current and future students in Upstate’s Physical Therapy program: https://www.upstatefoundation.org/chpalumni/donate
Alumni Spotlights
The College of Health Professions Alumni Association want to Spotlight YOU Alumni! Let us proudly brag about your professional successes since graduation! Let us know about Job Placements, Promotions, Grants, New Programs, Honors, Publications, Accomplishments, Furthering Education, Calendar Awareness Dates, Donations and more! There is no accomplishment too small or too old. We want to see representation from all of the programs within CHP! Each candidate can volunteer their social media contact info if they are open to connecting with current students and alumni. To do this, you may either:
1) Email the name and email address of an alumni candidate to the Health Professions Alumni Association @ CHPAlum@upstate.edu
https://www.upstatefoundation.org/chpalumnispotlights
You may view our spotlight posts on any of the College of Health Professions social media pages, such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIN and the CHP Alumni website.
We thank you for participating in this initiative.
Best wishes,
Brian Goodrich, RT ’14 and Mary Rosen, RT ’18
Health Professions Alumni Association Board of Directors
SHARE ANNOUNCEMENTS, NEWS & EVENTS: chpnews@upstate.edu
NEW ALUMNI: If you haven't already, please send your email address to the CHP Dean's office : chpnews@upstate.edu
On July 24, 2023, the Cardiovascular Perfusion Department, the Medical Imaging & Radiation Sciences Department, and the Respiratory Therapy Department will move back to the newly renovated Silverman Hall! A formal celebration will be scheduled for later in the summer.
Silverman Hall will be state-of-the-art facility, that incorporates green technology! The aesthetic appeal of the beautifully designed interior is certain to draw faculty and students to the Upstate campus.
790 Irving Avenue
Syracuse, NY 13210
A Message from the Dean
As the cool (okay – cold!) weather moves into Central New York students, faculty and staff are approaching the end of the Fall semester, just days away from the semester break. Please join me in wishing everyone well as they complete final exams.
I have a few items of note to share. Recently Chris Neville, PT, PhD, Professor of Physical Therapy accepted the position of Executive Assistant Dean for the College. His work is focused on implementation of the Appointments Promotion and Tenure policies, and helping faculty find their path to promotion. I am extremely grateful to have his assistance with this important work, as well as his creative thinking about future endeavors for CHP.
Aligned with the College’s strategic initiative to enhance faculty satisfaction, Dr. Michelle Dolphin is running a pilot mentoring project that pairs new faculty with more experienced peers. Dr. Dolphin reports “We have 18 participants in this initial roll out including 9 CHP mentees, 7 CHP mentors, and 1 mentor each from the College of Medicine and the College of Nursing. Fall successes include the CHP Welcome Back and CHP Faculty Mentor Project Kickoff event on August 26 with 30 CHP attendees, generously funded by the Alumni Association. Mentee-Mentor Matches were completed the following week, and the pairs are meeting on their own schedule. Thus far, informal feedback has included positive reviews about the specific “match” and gratitude for the opportunity to engage with peers. Mentor-mentee pairs work on the mentee’s goals, which vary from developing a research agenda, working toward grants, improving teaching strategies, and overall career planning (to name a few). CHP mentor-mentee meetings have occurred remotely and in person, and we seem to be moving along! Program assessment will continue in the spring and summer with the project timeline running through August, 2023. A special thank you goes out to the faculty participants for your commitment of time and expertise and to Dean Beissner for her support of this project!” And thank you back to Dr. Dolphin for her energy and initiative in creating and supporting this program.
Looking forward, we have a team hard at work redesigning the CHP website to refresh the look and improve navigation. I am excited about our planned launch during the first quarter of 2023. We are also working on a renovation of the CHP strategic plan, which should be ready to share in the same timeframe. It is hard to believe that it has already been 5 years since we undertook the last strategic planning process, but the calendar doesn’t lie. Stay tuned for the exciting reveals in 2023!
Feature Stories
Providing a head start in healthcare, Jump Into Health Care (JIHC) exposes upper-level students to a wide range of health careers. Through an engaging and intensive curriculum, students build study skills and information-seeking strategies while gaining a foundational understanding of the diagnostic process and the range of treatment options.
This 4.5-week summer enrichment program was designed for students with an interest in health care careers and an aptitude for science. The underlying goal is to diversify the health care workforce by introducing students from underrepresented, minority backgrounds to the range of health careers that offer promising employment opportunities.
The challenging, problem-based approach was selected over more conventional coursework to increase information-seeking skills and problem-solving in an interesting and engaging format.
For a full look at the 2022 Jump Into Healthcare pilot program : Giving Syracuse students a “jumpstart” in healthcare.
Henninger High School Student
What was the best part? The best part was me going to visit new locations within the building and being able to do hands-on activities.
What did you learn? From the respiratory therapy visit, I learned about the different sounds within the respiratory tract and how they differ from one another. We were dealing with a case study called cystic fibrosis that involved respiratory conditions causing mucus buildup. We got to try on the vest that vibrates. The vibration breaks up the mucus, making it thinner. The vest is a tremendous help for people with cystic fibrosis, whose mucus becomes thicker.
Also, I learned how to properly evaluate a case study to diagnose what a patient may have.
What did you think of the College of Health Professions? The College of Health Professions is amazing and it offers opportunities that I didn't know existed!
Would you ever want to attend school there? What Programs interested you? Yes, I thought about attending the College of Health Professions, some programs that interest me were Clinical Lab Science, Respiratory Therapy, and Medical Technology.
Who were your student mentors? What did you think of them? My student mentors were Anjlee, Caroline, Tiara, and Mr. Felix. They were outstanding mentors, and were always there to help me with anything I needed. They pushed me to the best of my abilities, especially Anjlee, I truly appreciated it!
What did you think about the teachers? The Upstate professors were amazing, they shared their knowledge and expertise regarding the content and their medical field overall.
The other students? The students were great, they all got along very well. They were involved, listening, and paying attention to the speaker.
Did you make new friends? Yes, I made new friends and in addition to that, I was able to learn new things about them.
Did this experience expand your horizons? How? Yes, this opportunity expanded my horizon tremendously because this experience gave me a chance to observe and learn about the different professions within the medical field, and this gave me a little overview of what it's like to be in that profession.
How will your experience at Jump Into Healthcare impact your future? My experience and jumping to healthcare will impact my future by allowing me to have the knowledge and information already at hand at an early age. Also, it helped me decide on my commitment to the healthcare field.
Would you recommend it to someone? Why? Yes, I would most definitely recommend it to someone else because it gives you a chance to discover and learn new things that you haven't even heard of before. It gives you a chance to expand your mind and to ask questions. It allows you to open your mind up to new experiences that you may want to consider for your future. Overall, this program can lead you to the right path.
How did it help you grow? What new skills did you learn? This program helped me grow by allowing me to be more open-minded and more communicative with others because beforehand I wasn't as talkative as I was after the program had ended. This program helped me to get out of my comfort zone. I developed new skills throughout the program--the collaboration skills and decisive skills that helped me make better choices.
Could you see yourself as a future Health Professional? What kind? Yes, I see myself as a future health professional becoming a pharmacologist, a clinical lab technician, or surgical technologist.
How did the program impact you? From a mentor perspective, it allowed me to step outside my learning experience, especially because of the large age gap. The mentees were in high school. I haven’t stepped inside of a high school for ten years. I tried to place myself in their shoes and figure out what they were they thinking, what they were feeling, how should we go about this learning process? It forced me to consider about how someone else might think, how they might learn. I tried to tailor the experience to that mindset. That was something I learned through this process.
As a med student, it was nice to have these cases, because they were similar to what we would do in med school. You know what they say, "if you can teach it to a five year old, then you really know the information." I had to ask myself, how can I teach it to someone who hasn’t had a year of med school? How can I simplify this a little bit and make sure I really understand the information before teaching it to them? Also, how do I teach them to break large bits of information down? It opened my eyes to how I should be thinking about things. There’s not always a complicated way, sometimes there are simple ways to going about things.
In fact, one of my students taught me something about anemia. I always knew it was low blood cell count, but she broke down the word. I was mind blown because I'd never thought to break down the word. I think it taught me that it doesn’t have to be complicated. Going into my future studies, if I don’t have a lot of information, I know I can break things down--that's how it impacted me. It also impacted me in other ways.
Did you see a change in the students over the week long intensive? At the end of each week, when they finished their case, they had to do their own powerpoint program. They presented it to us, and we gave them feedback. A lot of them weren't comfortable speaking in front of people. By end of four weeks they were able to give a presentation in front of the entire class. They learned how to structure it themselves, they learned how to give a presentation, basically they did what we term a SOAP note--"subjective objective acceptance and plan," the documentation method healthcare providers use to write out patient notes. They pretty much did it all on their own subconsciously.
What makes this important or worthwhile? We had a lot guest speakers come and talk about different health care specialties: nursing, physical therapy… anything you could think about. We had someone come in and do a NARCAN training--how to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose and administer the opioid overdose reversal drug Naloxone. There were public health series. There were a lot of things and each health care specialty contributed a different perspective about their field, the job they do, and how they work. As med students its very easy to focus on the DOCTOR, but it was nice to see all these other professions. While some of the students wanted to become a physician, a lot of people in the room wanted to be pursue something different, some other healthcare specialty. One wanted to be a nurse, one wanted to be a bio-medical engineer. You know, that’s really cool. One was thinking that after graduation they'd take a phlebotomy course and do that for a bit. It was nice, because even though they came with all with a lot of knowledge in the particular specialty they were interested in, they enjoyed talking to other healthcare professionals and going to different clinical settings. We went to the simulation lab in the basement of Weiskotten and to the EDR and talked to all those people. The students were exposed to different specialties and the element those professionals work in. They really enjoyed that.
Just having someone to talk to about things like college… how to apply for college. Krystal Ripa from Upstate Admissions told them everything they needed to know about the application process. I didn’t know that there were so many admission pathways and programs. That was really cool for them. They got to talk to their mentors about the mentor’s college experience was like.
Anjlee is an MD/MPH candidate at SUNY Upstate Medical University. She joined the Auerbach Lab in 2021 and has been working with the Equivital vest. She is investigating the role of wearable technology to help diagnose patients with seizures and to determine potential predictors of sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP).
While she is still examining future interests, she hopes to pursue Internal Medicine and continue her research as a future physician. In her free time, she enjoys rock-climbing and swimming.
In September, Dean Beissner announced Christopher Neville's appointment as Executive Assistant Dean for the College of Health Professions. Dr. Neville brings a wealth of academic expertise and leadership experience to this position. As a professor of physical therapy, his specialties include clinical gait analysis, orthopaedics, and biomechanics. He teaches in the area of biomechanics, kinesiology, and research methods for the entry level DPT program as well as supervising graduate and medical students from across the campus. Dr. Neville is co-director of the Motion Analysis Laboratory and is director of Industry Research for the office of Research Administration at Upstate. In 2008, he received a PhD in Health Practice Research/ Biomechanics from the University of Rochester. In 2000, he earned a MS in Physical Therapy from Ithaca College.
10th Annual Fit-IN Event
Building Mobility in Syracuse and Beyond
Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital joins premier network for autism
Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital will confer with other top centers on best practices and care for children with autism.
Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital has been invited to become a member of the Autism Care Network, the first and only network of its kind focused on better autism care, aimed to improve health and quality of life for children with autism and their families.
Upstate joins 24 other hospitals in the network, including Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), University of Rochester Medical Center - Golisano Children's Hospital, and Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center in the network.
Henry Roane, PhD, division chief of the Center for Development, Behavior and Genetics at Upstate and the executive director of the Golisano Center for Special Needs, said inclusion in the network will benefit clinicians, patients and their families in several ways.
“The goal of the care network is to bring centers together to discuss what’s working at their clinics,” Roane said. “It is also a venue for providers and parent advocates to say, ‘these are the problems we’re seeing’ and to provide a network to problem solve and troubleshoot with the ultimate goal of improving clinical care and quality of life for children with autism."
Launched in April 2021, the network is supported by Autism Speaks, AIR-P, the J. Donald Lee and Laurelle Lee Family Foundation and PCORnet.
Roane said the network is also a way for centers to give feedback to Autism Speaks about issues families deal with, and in turn, these issues can become research or clinical initiatives.
“It really has a direct impact on the families, it has a direct impact on the clinicians, but it also has a little more of a global impact on setting directives and some objectives for Autism Speaks,” said Roane, who is among a team of four experts that recently received a grant from Autism Speaks to work toward improving care for autistic people experiencing severe behavioral challenges.
Members of the care network meet via monthly webinars led by a different center each time, where things like best practices and changes in the field will be discussed. Inclusion in the network includes a small amount of grant money to support the salary of a site coordinator.
“Being connected with these other programs enables us, almost forces us, to be more engaged and to have greater awareness to practice guidelines, changes to best practices, changes to care models that we are not currently doing,” Roane said. “We will be able to take our collective knowledge from all of those sites in the network and apply it to care provisions in Syracuse, which will make our program better."
Roane said Upstate has seen a 17 percent increase in the number of appointments for patients with autism in the past year.
Roane collaborated on the application to join the network with Upstate Golisano pediatrician Diane Montgomery, MD. Occupational therapist Wendy Miles, MSoT, will be the site coordinator and quality improvement coordinator for Upstate.
Roane thanked Linda Veit from the Office of External Affairs, Sarah Trapani, from the Office of the President and Upstate President Mantosh Dewan, MD, for their work in supporting Upstate’s inclusion in Autism Speaks.
Henry Roane, MD, division chief of the Center for Development, Behavior and Genetics at Upstate and the executive director of the Golisano Center for Special Needs.
~Written by Jean Albanese, Published in Upstate News on Monday, September 19, 2022
Research on Effects of rTMS on Chronic Pain Management
The research team includes: Adam Rufa PT, DPT, PhD, Yi-Ling Kuo PT, PhD, Evangeline Koutalianos, MD, Vandana Sharma, MD, Vidhath Moku, MD, Joseph DeFelice, SPT
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive brain stimulation technique that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. The repetitive form of TMS, or rTMS, has therapeutic potential to change brain function. rTMS is an emerging and safe non-pharmacological treatment that was approved by the FDA for treating brain disorders like major depression. rTMS can be effective in reducing pain without side effects commonly seen with pain medications, such as addiction. The neuromodulation laboratory in the Department of Physical Therapy Education recently started two new studies using rTMS a novel and adjuvant intervention to manage chronic pain in concussion and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS).
VALIDATION OF A BIOFEEDBACK GAIT TRAINING DEVICE FOR USE IN PATIENTS WITH MOVEMENT DISORDERS
Description of my research:
DPT Program: I knew coming to Upstate to do my doctorate was the right choice for me clinically, and I knew I wanted to continue with my research endeavors. Within the first few weeks of starting the program, I contacted Dr. Christopher Neville to talk about the Electroskip and my ideas for research we could undertake during my time at Upstate. Since that first talk, we have acquired IRB approval, created a research design, tested over 30 participants, comprising both controls from my class, individuals with PD, and age-matched controls to the PD group. Additionally, I've had the opportunity to present at the APTA Combined Sections Meeting in San Antonio, TX, last year and will present more current results/findings again in San Diego California for the Combined Sections meeting in 2023. I also received grant funding through Empower Parkinson’s foundation to test the ElectroskipTM technology at Rock Steady Boxing, a PD gym in Liverpool, NY. Since receiving that grant, we have tested 20 more individuals using the technology and now plan to create another study design to answer further questions from our original research.
With Dr. Neville and the company, I have also submitted an NIH and NSF grant which we are waiting to hear back about.
My inspiration to undertake this work: Since my undergraduate career, I have been interested in research and figuring out how the human body functions and how technology can assist with that especially in the presence of disease. After working with individuals with PD, I've built a bond and a passion to find new ways to help them. I find PD to be a very intriguing yet challenging disease, and want to find ways to help these individuals live longer and healthier lives. I've also enjoyed being the research consultant who took on the challenge of validating Electroskip technology and being one of the first individuals to test its effectiveness in this population. Additionally, the results we have already begun to see in our trials is what keeps me going. I want to pursue new and innovative ways to improve the lives around me.
Where I hope this leads me: I intend to continue this research and to embark on further research as my career continues. I hope this research provides innovative ideas for clinicians to utilize with individuals with PD and other populations that will be studied in the future. I hope it can provide insight on this technology and its effectiveness. I also hope that my endeavors with this research will lead me to more work in the Parkinson’s community and further research opportunities. My main goal is to continue to grow as a future clinician and continue with my research interests.
Bob Groom's Visit all the Way from Kenya
Bob was the Editor of the Journal of Extracorporeal Technology and the Chief of Maine Medical Center and has been a clinical instructor for SUNY students for 20 years at MMC. After his retirement he and his wife Holly moved to Kenya to help support a developing, open-heart-surgery program at Tenwick Hospital. Bob has continued to support SUNY clinical education even from Africa. Bob recently served as the clinical instructor for Mohamed Ashhat (class of 2022) who completed his clinical case requirement at one of our programs newest Clinical Affiliate sites, the Aswan Heart Center in Egypt.
Cornell STEP Students visit the College of Health Professions
Respiratory students, Natalie Wetterhahn and Adam Amraoui, give hands on demostrations to Ithaca High School Students
On November 11th, 20-30 students from Ithaca High School enrolled in the Cornell Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP) spent the afternoon at Upstate’s College of Health Professions, where they participated in a series of hands-on demonstrations led by Upstate Respiratory Therapy students and their department chair, Stephen Feikes, MA, RT, RRT. The room was literally buzzing. At the first station, Corinne Bandera, class of 2024, demonstrated airway clearance therapy used for chronic lung patients. At the second station, Natalie Wetterhahn, also a junior, gave hands-on lessons in “bagging”—that is, using a manual resuscitator to breathe for a patient. At the third station, Adam Amraoui, class of 2024, also a paramedic, and Esosa Odemwingie, class of 2023, led students through the delicate procedure of placing a breathing tube into a patient’s windpipe. Professor Feikes, at the fourth station, introduced students to the “cockpit” of a mechanical ventilator, with its many settings and graphics. At all stations, Ithaca students were encouraged to take a turn practicing life-saving therapies.
Cornell STEP is one of the programs funded by the NYS Department of Education under its Postsecondary Access, Support & Success, which provides programming and supportive services to youth in more than 500 elementary, middle and secondary schools, and the Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) throughout New York State. Collaborative relationships are developed with more than 80 institutions of higher education; 300 community-based organizations; and hundreds of businesses and industries. Cornell STEP serves 123 students, grades 7-12, in the Ithaca area with over 50 universities participating state-wide. SUNY Upstate hosts the collegiate version, allowing students involved in the high school program to advance to the college-level parallel.
Students who qualify for the Cornell STEP program are those who self-identify as historically underrepresented in STEM or as economically disadvantaged. The program promotes students’ academic success, college readiness, career development, and social-emotional wellness. Cornell STEP is run out of the David M. Einhorn Center for Community Engagement at Cornell University.
Cornell STEP Assistant Director, Kurt Sarsfield, expressed gratitude to Upstate's staff and students who went above and beyond to create a dynamic, hands-on experience. Sarsfield could tell from the student interactions that they learned from their respiratory therapy mentors. He noticed that a few of the Upstate students prodded the highschoolers to think tactically about their future careers. “You can go on for advanced degrees!”
Coming to Upstate provides the Cornell STEP program a unique opportunity to learn about health professions and medical careers, especially since Cornell’s medical school is located in New York City. Sarsfield noted, “It presents a different set of educational opportunities at a medical university, which looks very different from many of the more traditional college campuses we visit with students. This program also demonstrates the hands-on aspect of the health professions. Because Upstate students transfer in their junior year, it may not feel as close at hand as choosing a program you enter straight out of college, but it’s helpful to know that there’s a breadth of options available,” the moment any one of those students decide they want to be a health professional.
Student Highlights
First-Generation Clinical Perfusion Senior receives AmSECT Scholarship
This scholarship fund is made possible by a generous donation from Mary Hartley, RN, CCP Emeritus, MSN/ED, a pillar of the perfusion community.
"As a first-generation student afforded this incredible opportunity, I hope to propagate this unique skill set akin to the traditional surgical motto 'see one, do one, teach one.' The field of perfusion will allow me to combine my passion for research, education, and global health to make an impact on the care of children requiring cardiac surgery around the world and aid those on a similar mission," ~ Matthew Montesano
Seniors claim victory at the Annual Symposium of the NY State Society of Respiratory Care
CONGRATULATIONS! #respiratorytherapist #CHPrespiratorytherapy #rcweek22
Student Physical Therapy Recognition and Send Off
SPTSY AWARDS
On October 16th, the Physical Therapy Department held its annual Harvest Banquet / Student Physical Therapist Recognition and Send-off Awards; this year in honor of the DPT Class of 2023. Having started their degree program in the midst of the pandemic, this class had all the more reason to celebrate their accomplishments. #CHPproud!
Esosa Odemwingie, Class of 2023
From Nigeria to NYC, then Medgar Evers College to SUNY Upstate's College of Health Professions
Now in her final year at the College of Health Professions, from an early age Esosa has overcome multiple challenges, especially being far from her home. She grew up in Edo State, Benin City, Nigeria. “I haven't been back since I left, though I am hoping to go back soon to visit. I miss it every day—the culture, the people, the food, the music, everything. It was my childhood.”
In April 2015, difficult family circumstances brought Esosa, her mother, and her three younger brothers to the United States. "When we came to the US, my parents separated. My mom was a single parent." Esosa describes her mother as strong and determined. “She adjusted very quickly; you would think she always lived here. Even though she has seen and experienced so much—my mother has seen everything—she still has the biggest heart and takes people in. She’s always our protector."
For Esosa, it took time to adjust to the changes. Arriving here for the first time, “I couldn’t believe how cold the temperatures made me feel.” She also describes the culture shock, attending the Frederick Douglas Academy VI in Queens, NY. “Transitioning from Nigeria, where everyone looked like me, to the USA wasn't easy. Here, race is a very important matter. I still haven’t processed it all."
Esosa graduated high school early and took a gap year to decide which career path to pursue. She started a job at a law office in NYC and became a youth defender. Working for a defense attorney, she mentored high school students. In particular, she helped keep African-American and Latino students out of the criminal justice system. That program was an important part of her life, but Esosa felt her calling was a different one.
Having always loved the sciences, she went to Medgar Evers College in Brooklyn. While attaining her Associates Degree in science she began collecting prerequisites for the nursing program. Her intention was to follow in her mother's footsteps into the nursing profession. “I knew I wanted to pursue a career in a medical field. My auntie is a pharmacist, my cousin just graduated from pharmacy school, my uncle is a nurse practitioner in California. The majority of my family works in the medical field." At first Esosa considered going to med school for orthopedics or gynecology. "I use to dream about going to medical school and opening a hospital in Nigeria."
However, when Esosa applied to a nursing program at Onondaga Community College, she decided she wanted to pursue a program that allowed for more upward mobility. Her advisor at OCC told her about the Respiratory Therapy Program at Upstate's College of Health Professions. At the same time, her friend had started a respiratory therapy program in NYC. “She really loved it. She told me to look into it, that I would like it too. Now we’re going to graduate at the same time.”
Now a senior at the College of Health Professions, Esosa is highly satisfied with her choice. “I love that it's part of a medical university attached to a large hospital that educates all types of health professionals and medical researchers. There's security in knowing I'll be so well trained, that I can graduate and potentially work at Upstate.”
Esosa says, the respiratory therapy program has proved more challenging than she expected, but she says the professors at CHP are very flexible and push students to become the best they can possibly be. “They’re extremely helpful and attentive. Professors at CHP do everything in their power to help you stay on track. They're concerned about our learning and overall welfare."
Since coming to CHP, Esosa’s learned first hand the large role respiratory therapists play in saving lives. “Many people may not realize the work respiratory therapists do is crucial. We're specifically focused on managing the respiratory system--the breathing everyone takes for granted, yet it's the key to everything. It's by this essential process, we're able to recognize what's happening with the rest of the body. The slightest obstruction can prevent oxygen flow to the blood and affect body functions.”
Like many, Esosa enjoys medical shows and spending time with her friends and family. “I love Grey's Anatomy and The Resident on Hulu. I take my brothers to Dave & Busters. After a week of hard work, I go out with my school friends. I enjoy spending time with classmates from my cohort. Throughout the course of this program, spending a great deal of time with them has allowed us all to become lifelong friends."
After graduation, Esosa wants to establish herself as a respiratory therapist and build her career. Esosa says, in the future she may go further with her education to pursue a masters or a PHD.
When asked what advice she would offer incoming students, Esosa said, “Nothing worthwhile is easy, but knowing your strengths and weaknesses, reaching out for help can make any daunting experience easier." For those considering the Respiratory Therapy Program at CHP, Esosa says, “This program has been one of my life's best experiences. The support offered by the professors and students is like having a second family. The difference you'll be able to make in people's lives is limitless--one breath at a time!”
Layalee Ashkar, PA 2024
Local, First-Gen Student, now Class President
Layalee and her four older brothers were raised in a household with deep, Palestinian cultural and family ties. They were involved in many sports--karate, basketball, football, cheerleading, volleyball, and soccer. She adds, "The best days are when we're all home enjoying NFL Sunday or the World Cup, each cheering for our team."
Layalee and her siblings attended Liverpool High School, where she graduated in 2019. "We're all first-generation college graduates, neither of my parents went to college." In 2022 Layalee graduated a year early from Lemoyne College with a BS in Biology and minors in both Chemistry and Psychology and is now studying as a first-year student in the Physician Assistant Program at Upstate’s College of Health Professions (CHP).
"I chose CHP because it's local. It has smaller sized cohorts--the PA class of 2024 has 35 students. My undergraduate college was small and my classes only had 30-40 students. I grew to love this, as it allowed for more personal relationships with my professors and classmates. From experience, those relationships with your professors have a significant impact on your success."
Speaking about her chosen profession, Layalee emphasizes the compassion, the expertise, and the devotion that Physician Assistants embody, providing quality care while empowering their patients. Layalee appreciates the diversity and flexibility of the PA profession, which is immediately mirrored by CHP’s Physician Assistant Program and her cohort of 35 students, each of different age groups, ethnicities, and professional backgrounds. "Walking out of class each day, I am grateful and excited about the breadth of knowledge and experience I am acquiring at Upstate. I can't wait to use it to make an impact."
Layalee worked hard to get this far. "While studying as a full-time undergrad, I worked 2 separate jobs in order to accumulate the required patient-contact hours before I graduated. This was a heavy load, but with my family as my support system and with my motivation to become a Physician Assistant, I'm thankful for that experience. It prepared me for the inevitable, busy schedule that comes with being a PA student and with standing where I am today. As I enter my profession as a Physician Assistant, as a lifelong student of medicine, I know the hard work and the dedication will continue to pay off."
Layalee highlights the selflessness of her classmates, always going beyond to help each other, and she spotlights the faculty, who are constantly adapting to students’ needs. “It’s comforting to know we have a team behind us that wants us to succeed.” That compassionate, educational environment will inevitably translate into better patient care. Layalee points out that CHP’s Physician Assistant Program stresses a biopsychosocial approach--being a Physician Assistant goes beyond medicine alone. It entails establishing trusting relationships with patients, addressing the entirety of their situation, and being empathetic of their conditions.
Raised in Liverpool, Francesca lives in the Eastwood neighborhood. “I love it here. When I graduated from Liverpool High School in 2013, I went straight to Ithaca College. I got a bachelors degree in integrated marketing communications. During high school, I took a personality test, which said I was suited for marketing. So, I went and got a degree in that field. After graduating from Ithaca, I worked in marketing, but two years later, I thought maybe this isn't for me.
“When COVID happened, I enjoyed working from home, but I had a sense that it wasn't what I wanted to do my whole life. I started to reevaluate. A lot of my family is in healthcare. My sister's a doctor. My mom is a physical therapist. During high school, for some reason, I didn't want to go into healthcare, but once in college, I realized I wanted to work in some aspect of healthcare--like marketing for healthcare.
“I worked as a marketing coordinator and eventually I became a marketing specialist for a local finance company that tailored its service to healthcare professionals. When a private health practice needed a loan to buy equipment, they would come to us. Finally, I became a project manager. I don't regret working there. When I started, I didn't know I’d stay five years. Being my first job out of college, I figured I'd start there and see where a career in marketing might take me.
"However, I soon realized, that I, like the health professionals my company served, wanted that patient interaction. When I was a kid, my dad went to Upstate for a degree in medical imaging. He became an X-Ray technologist. Going back to school, when me and my siblings were little, was a big deal. Watching my father do that—I think he graduated when I was nine years old—it was clear he liked what he was doing. He still works in the hospital system. In addition my sister (my siblings and I are very close in age) was always on the healthcare track. Now, she’s an ENT surgeon, living in New Mexico. She’s doing great.
"I remember, as a kid, having an ultrasound done on my shoulders. I have large trapezium muscles. My parents worried, but it was regular muscle tissue--I’ve always been very muscular. It stuck in my mind, because my dad was an imaging tech, and we knew the people that worked there.
"Once, after a soccer game, I had to get an X-ray. It was embarrassing, because I wasn't injured during the game. We were sitting on a folding table that collapsed. That time, my dad performed my X-ray; it turned out to be a bad bruise. At the time, I didn’t think that’s what I'll do when I grow up, but now that I'm doing it, I remember feeling safe and comfortable in those settings. It's cool that I’ll give the same kind of comfort to patients.
"If my dad could go to school with three little kids at home, I knew I could do it too, but it was a big change. I was nervous about quitting my job. My finances would take a hit. In 2020, I had bought a house. Being certain I could pay the mortgage was definitely a consideration, but it helped knowing that it only takes two years to get a degree in medical imaging.
"When I did my bachelor's degree, I took mostly general education, but I didn't have the science and anatomy classes required by Upstate, so I I took the anatomy and physiology prerequisites after work at Onondaga Community College (OCC). I did one class per semester—a class over the summer, a class in the fall, and one in the spring. I loved my time at OCC. it was an opportunity to decide that medical imaging is what I want to do. I loved doing homework for my anatomy and physiology prereqs. I used to come home and tell my fiancé all the new things I learned—I still do. I also did a shadowing session with some ultrasound technologists. After that, I knew what I wanted, so I applied to the College of Health Professions. I was so happy when I received my acceptance!
"It went by so quickly—the time at OCC and the time it took to apply to the College of Health Professions. It was great going to OCC and have it be local. Before I knew it, I was ready to start at Upstate, which is local too! Then COVID happened. Taking my prerequisites while working my job, it helped that I was working from home. The folks at the finance company were supportive as well. When I told them I was leaving to pursue a new career, they were happy for me.
"What I like best about the College of Health of Professions, are the small class sizes, especially for Ultrasound. There’s only seven of us. Most of my classes are the same size. The imaging department is small and close knit. I have good relationships with all of my professors. I’m never nervous to raise my hand and ask a question, or go up to the professor after class, or send them an email or a text. Students can ask for help with anything. In my first semester, I've already done this on a number of occasions. I also like my peers in my program. I do work study for the college’s administrative office. Everyone there is very friendly
"It was a challenge going back to school, because I've been out of school for 5 years. You have to make the time to study. It’s also important to eat healthy dinners and socialize with friends. It’s a balancing act, but it's a different balancing act from working full-time and doing the same things. Now you're studying and you really have to. You have to do the time management yourself. Making sure you have time for each of your classes and all of the other things you might want to do has been a challenge, but I have a good support system. I have my friends and my fiancé. One of my friends lives with me. She's going back to school for a PhD in Criminal Justice. Her desk is across the room from mine. We motivate each other to study. If she's studying, I feel I should study too. That's nice.
"Between classes and studies, I like to play board games. Once, every week or two, I love a game night with friends and trying a new game. Our goal is to get through all the games we received last year as Christmas gifts that are still in the plastic wrap. By the way, my ultrasound professor, Ken Galbraith, is a big board-game geek. So we have that in common.
"I also love going to the movies. Going back to school, having to reassess my finances, I asked my fiancé, should I cut back my unlimited subscription to the movies? We decided it’s such a nice thing to do. Going to the movies once a week or a couple of times a month is a good way to relax. I like to analyze movies and review them with my friends.
"If I could give advice to incoming students, I’d tell them they have to work hard. It is a lot of material and if you're like me, it's all new. At first, I felt intimidated, but I quickly felt at ease. Every day, I gain more confidence in myself and in the material I'm learning. That has a lot to do with the professors. Know that all the material will be useful. I think of times, during my bachelor’s or back in high school, when I learned stuff I knew I'd never use in the real world. With the College of Health Professions, you’re going to use pretty much everything in the real world. So use that as motivation.
"For anyone considering this program, I would say, absolutely, do it! It may seem intimidating at first, and you might have to take a bunch of prerequisites. I would say, start now. if you're considering it, start the process. It goes by so fast, I can't believe that I was taking my prereqs two years ago. I’m so happy I started when I did, that I didn't delay any more. So, if you're considering making a change, just do it. It's nice that it's a two year program, which means it's not a huge time commitment out of your life. If you're someone like me, who has financial obligations and it's a big change in career, it won’t create a huge delay in your plans. In just two or three years, you'll be able to start your new career!
"I'm getting married in the fall of 2024, a couple of months after graduation. It’s a lot to plan for—the wedding, graduating, and hopefully starting my first ultrasound job! I'm really excited. In the meantime, I come home every day with a new fun fact for my fiancé and my roommates. One of my favorite facts about ultrasound: when the technology was first introduced, they put the patients in big bathtubs because the sound travels through water. It doesn't travel through the air, so it has to be coupled with something. When they immersed the patients in big bathtubs, they could see their tissues and organs. Now, of course, we have the gel. I used to think the purpose of the gel was reducing friction, but it’s really just a coupling mechanism. When I first heard that, it was mind-blowing.
"I'm so happy that I’m here at the College of Health Professions. Everyone in my life, my family and friends, has noticed that I'm a lot happier. Knowing this is the track I want to pursue, that I'm actually doing it, I’m proud of myself, that I made the change and decided to do it. I’m super happy to be here!"
Physical Therapy Presentations:
Carrier R, Madonna E, Greene J, Pancari J, Fisher BE, Kuo YL. Examining Unimanual Contributions to Bimanual Coordination in Professional Musicians and Musically Naïve Adults. 2023 APTA Combined Sections Meeting, San Diego, CA
Schlueter, K., Janowitz, E., Brousseau, R.D., Kuo, Y., Wentz, E.E. Exploring the Impact of Including Total-body Vibration in Physical Therapy Intervention on Activation of the Key Muscles of Gait in Young Children with Developmental Disabilities, APTA Paediatrics, Portland, OR, November, 2022
https://www.eventscribe.net/2022/AC/PosterTitles.asp?pfp=BrowsebyTitle
Madonna, E; Neville, C. Validation of a Biofeedback Gait Training Device for use in patients with movement disorders. Combined Sections Meeting, APTA, San Diego, CA. February, 2023.
FACULTY AWARDS
"Leading the Charge--Advancing Innovation in Higher Education and the Health Professions," Oct. 19-21, Long Beach, CA
The theme of this year's conference was "LEADING THE CHARGE: ADVANCING INNOVATIONS IN HIGHER EDUCATION AND THE HEALTH PROFESSIONS." On day one of the conference, Dean Beissner presented in a session on leadership:
"BE A VOICE FOR CHANGE. ENHANCE YOUR ADVOCACY SKILLS"
Abstract:
Advocacy is vital to the long-term success of higher education in the health professions. There is however, a void of comfort, expertise, and experience among administrators at all levels mainly because formal training on being an effective advocate is typically outside the scope of their educational requirements and continual learning experiences.
Method: This session will explore a model of advocacy that describes and illustrates the importance of advocacy as it applies to health professions education. Current issues that can be addressed through advocacy will be discussed. Best practices on how to deliver the advocacy message including writing letters, making phone calls, creating leave-behind flyers, the elevator speech, and live meetings and relationship building with a legislator, both at the state and federal levels. Strategies for engaging state and national legislators as advocates for legislation that impact health professions education and hence practice will be a central focus, and will include campus visits, and/or meetings with legislators outside of the regular session and campaign involvement.
Outcome/Conclusion: This session will prepare health professions deans and faculty to effectively advocate on behalf of their programs, their colleges, and ASAHP.
Coauthored with Valerie Herzog (Weber State University); Halcyon St. Hill (Florida Gulf Coast University).
For more info: https://www.asahp.org
In an auspicious moment, Edward Darling, MS, CCP, Associate Professor of CVP, presented Dr. Aiash with a special gift to mark the occasion--a crown crafted from CVP tubing.
In 2003, Dr. Aiash earned a medical doctorate at the Suez Canal University, Egypt. After serving in many different roles as a medical doctor in the Middle East, Dr. Aiash became a research scientist at SUNY Upstate Medical University in 2016. In 2019, Dr. Aiash was promoted to Assistant Professor in the CVP Program.
FACULTY PUBLICATIONS & PRESENTATIONS:
Behavior Analysis Studies Publications:
Smith, S. W., & Greer, B. D. (2022). Phase duration and resurgence. Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior, 117(1), 91-104. https://doi.org/10.1002/jeab.725
Smith, S. W., & Greer, B. D. (2022). Validating Human-Operant Software: A Case Example. Behavior Analysis: Research and Practice. Advance online publication. http://dx.doi.org/10.1037/bar0000244
Rohacek, A., Baxter, E. L., Sullivan, W. E., Roane, H. S., & Antshel, K. M. (2022). A Preliminary Evaluation of a Brief Behavioral Parent Training for Challenging Behavior in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-022-05493-3
Phipps, L. E., Haney, S. D., Zeleny, J., Andersen, A. S., Peterson, K. M., & Orloski, S. (2022). Using Behavior-Analytic Treatment to Teach Tongue Lateralization Skills to Children With Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder. Clinical Case Studies. https://doi.org/10.1177/15346501221092112
Smith, S. W., Kronfli, F. R., & Vollmer, T. R. (2022). Commentary on Slocum et al.(2022): Additional Considerations for Evaluating Experimental Control. Perspectives on Behavior Science, 45(3), 667-679. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40614-022-00346-x
Craig, A. R., & Shahan, T. A. (2022). Nondrug reinforcers contingent on alternative behavior or abstinence increase resistance to extinction and reinstatement of ethanol-maintained behavior. Journal of the Experimental Analysis of Behavior, 118, 353-375. Doi: 10.1002/jeab.801
Sullivan, W.E., Zangrillo, A., Kalb, L., Mazefsky, C. (2022). Screening, Assessment, and Measurement of Challenging Behavior in Autism Spectrum Disorder. Autism Speaks Thought Leadership Summit on Challenging Behaviors. Autism Speaks, Princeton, NJ. https://assets.foleon.com/eu-west-2/uploads-7e3kk3/25315/assessment-screening.7212360dbaeb.pdf
Behavior Analysis Studies Faculty Presentations:
Smith, S. W., Peters, K. P., Vollmer, T. R., Hernandez-Avalos, Y., Fletcher, B., Santos, J., & Williams, M. (2022). Ethics and behavior analytic evaluations of medical procedures. Symposium presentation at 42nd Annual Florida Association for Behavior Analysis Conference, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL.
Smith, S. W., & Greer, B. D. (2022). Phase duration and resurgence. Symposium presentation at 48th Annual Association for Behavior Analysis International Convention, Boston, MA.
Randall, K. R., Brown, K. R., Mojica, D. R., & Smith, S. W. (2022). A survey of supervisory practices in junior BCBAs. Symposium presentation at 48th Annual Association for Behavior Analysis International Convention, Boston, MA.
Vollmer, T. R., Lloveras, L. A., Peters, K. P., Ibañez, V. F., McKeown, C. A., Smith, S. W., & Tate, S. A. (2022). The why question: Ethical, clinical, and research implications for behavioral assessment. Florida State University Distinguished Lecturer Series.
Hernandez-Avalos, Y. G., Fletcher, B., & Smith, S. W. (2022). Establishing operation probes to determine functional anlaysis condition sequence. Poster presentation at 42nd Annual Florida Association for Behavior Analysis Conference, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL.
Yensen, C., Smith, S. W., Lloveras, L. L., Mathison, S., & Vollmer, T. R. (2022). Teaching individuals to type bowel movements with the Bristol Stool Chart. Poster presentation at 42nd Annual Florida Association for Behavior Analysis Conference, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL.
Morris, A. M., Fahmie, T. A., Smith, S. W., & Greer, B. D. (2022). Effects of alternative response availability during baseline. Poster presentation at 48th Annual Association for Behavior Analysis International Convention, Boston, MA.
Craig, A. R. (2022, May). Discussant for: Durability of Treatment Effects: Assessing Variables Contributing to Relapse in the Lab and Clinic. Symposium presented at the 48th annual meeting of the Association for Behavior Analysis, International, Boston, MA.
Mohamed, M., Sullivan, W. E., Saini, V., Craig, A. R., DeRosa, N. M., Rimal, A., Derrenbacker, K. E., & Roane, H. S. (2022, May). High- and low-technology resurgence preparations fail to produce extinction. In J. French (Chair), Basic and Applied Investigations of Resurgence: A Translational Approach to Demonstrating and Mitigating Relapse. Symposium presented at the 48th annual meeting of the Association for Behavior Analysis, International, Boston, MA.
Craig, A. R., Sullivan, W. E., Saini, V., Agnew, C. N., Derrenbacker, K. E., Cooper, A., Mathews, D., & Roane, H. S. (Accepted). The effects of response effort on extinction and relapse during human-laboratory experiments on resurgence. In J. French (Chair), Basic and Applied Investigations of Resurgence: A Translational Approach to Demonstrating and Mitigating Relapse. Symposium to be presented at the 48th annual meeting of the Association for Behavior Analysis, International, Boston, MA.
Agnew, C. N., Derrenbacker, K. E., Sullivan, W. E., Baxter, E. L., & Craig, A. R. (2022, May). A model of relapse and voluntary abstinence with alcohol self-administration. In C. Martinez-Perez (Chair), Basic and Translational Investigations of Resurgence and Renewal. Symposium presented at the 48th annual meeting of the Association for Behavior Analysis, International, Boston, MA.
Derrenbacker, K. E., Agnew, C. N., Sullivan, W. E., Roane, H. S., & Craig, A. R. (2022, May). The effects of alternative reinforcement rate on resurgence in mice. In C. Ritchey (Chair), Recent translational research on the effects of parameters of reinforcement on resurgence. Symposium presented at the 48th annual meeting of the Association for Behavior Analysis, International, Boston, MA.
Arroyo, B. E., Derrenbacker, K. E., Agnew, C. N., Sullivan, W. E., Roane, H. S., & Craig, A. R. (2022, May). Alternative-reinforcer magnitude effects on resurgence across successive relapse tests in mice. Poster presented at the 44th annual meeting of the Society for the Quantitative Analyses of Behavior, Boston, MA.
Craig, A. R., Arroyo, B. E., Derrenbacker, K. E., Agnew, C. N., Sullivan, W. E., & Roane, H. S. (2022, October). Alternative-reinforcer magnitude effects on resurgence across successive relapse tests in mice. In R. Kimball (Chair), From the Lab to the Clinic: Recent Findings from Translational Research on Resurgence and Renewal. Symposium to be presented at the 43rd annual meeting of the Berkshire Association for Behavior Analysis and Therapy, Worcester, MA.
Sullivan, W. E., Craig, A. R., Finley, A., Derrenbacker, K. E., & Roane, H. S. (2022, October). Utilizing stimuli associated with differential reinforcement of other behavior to mitigate resurgence. In R. Kimball (Chair), From the Lab to the Clinic: Recent Findings from Translational Research on Resurgence and Renewal. Symposium to be presented at the 43rd annual meeting of the Berkshire Association for Behavior Analysis and Therapy, Worcester, MA.
Kadey, H.J. & Roane, H.S. (2022, October). Feeding disorders: The applied behavior analysis approach. Invited presentation given at the 15th Annual Glickman Family Center Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Symposium, Portland, ME.
Roane, H.S. (2022, October). Outpatient treatment of challenging behavior. Keynote address given at the 15th Annual Glickman Family Center Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Symposium, Portland, ME.
Cardiovascular Perfusion Faculty Publications:
Sarya Swed, Sheikh Shoib, Mohammad B. Almoshantaf, Walaa Hasan, Yomna E. Dean, Yousef Tanas, Haidara Bohsas, Hidar Alibrahim, Mohammad M. Hasan, Weaam Ezzdean, Hazem S. Ghaith, Lina T. Khairy, Agyad Bakkour, Ali Hadi Hussein Muwaili, Fatima A. A. Abdelmajid, Mhd K. Albuni, Elias Battikh, Dhuha Hadi Hussein Muwaili, Rima Qattea, Karam R. Motawea, Bisher Sawaf, Nashaat Kamal Hamdy Elkalagi, Safaa M. A. Ahmed, Hani Aiash, & Data Collection Group, "Knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to COVID-19 infection, related behavior, antibiotics usage, and resistance among Syrian population: A cross-sectional study," Health Science Reports, https://doi.org/10.1002/hsr2.833
AbdulRahman A Saied, Asmaa A Metwally, Hani Aiash, (2022) Paleovirology of monkeypox virus: Egyptian animal mummies should be in focus. The Lancet Microbe, October 25, 2022 https://doi.org/10.1016/S2666-5247(22)00298-1
Karam R. Motawea, Hamed Gaber, Ravi B. Singh MD, Sarya Swed, Salem Elshenawy, Nesreen Elsayed Talat MBBS, Nawal Elgabrty, Sheikh Shoib MD, Engy A. Wahsh PHD, Pensée Chébl MBBS, Sarraa M. Reyad MBBS, Samah S. Rozan MBBS, Hani Aiash MD, PHD (2022) Effect of early metoprolol before PCI in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction on infarct size and left ventricular ejection fraction. A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials. Clinical Cardiology Volume 45, Issue10 Pages 1011-1028. https://doi.org/10.1002/clc.23894
Ramcharran, H., Bates, J.H.T., Satalin, J., Blair, S., Andrews, P.L., Gaver, D.P, Gatto, L.A., Wang,G., Ghosh, A.J., Robedee, B., Vossler, J., Habashi, N.M., Daphtary, N., Kollisch-Singule, M., and Nieman, G.F. (2022). Protective ventilation in a pig model of acute lung injury: timing is as important as pressure. J Appl Physiol 133: 1093–1105, First published September 22, 2022; doi:10.1152/japplphysiol.00312.2022
Physical Therapy Faculty Publications:
Christopher Neville, Judith Baumhauer, Jeff Houck, (2022) Are Patient Reported Outcome Measurement Information System scales responsive in patients attending physical therapy with foot and ankle diagnoses? Physiotherapy Theory and Practice, https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/09593985.2022.2037116
Boolani A, Allen A, Barrios N, Sames C. (2022) Association between trait energy and fatigue and aquatic functional tests: An exploratory study. J Aqua PT. 30(1): 8-11. https://journals.lww.com/japt/Abstract/2022/01000/Association_Between_Trait_Energy_and_Fatigue_and.3.aspx
Ito KL, Kim B, Liu J, Soekadar SR, Winstein C, Yu C, Cramer SC, Schweighofer N, Liew SL. (2021) Corticospinal Tract Lesion Load Originating From Both Ventral Premotor and Primary Motor Cortices Are Associated With Post-stroke Motor Severity. Neurorehabil Neural Repair. 36 (3): 179-182. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/15459683211068441
De Ruvo, R; Gusso, G; Lena, F; Giovannico, G; Neville, C; Turolla, A; Torre, M; Pellicciari, L. (2022) Effect of Manual Therapy Plus Exercise in Patients with Lateral Ankle Sprains: A Critically Appraised Topic with a Meta-Analysis. J Clin Med. 11(16): 4925. doi: 10.3390/jcm11164925 https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/11/16/4925
Rufa A, Dolphin M, Adams K, Brooks G. (2022) Factors associated with the low back pain-related attitudes and beliefs of physical therapists. Musculoskelet Sci Pract. Vol. 58, 102518. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.msksp.2022.102518.
Mariana Wingood, Elizabeth Peterson, Christopher Neville, Jennifer L Vincenzo (2022) Feet/Footware-Related fall risk screening tool for older adults: Development and content validation. Front Public Health, Feb 2;9:807019. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.807019
Boolani A, Allen A, Barrios N, Sames C. (2022) Intensity of Aquatic Physical Activity Is Best When Tailored to the Participants' Mental and Physical Capabilities: An Exploratory Study. The Journal of Aquatic Physical Therapy. 30(2): 30-36. DOI: 10.1097/PEP.0000000000000655 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31568388/
Carissa Wengrovius, Suzanna Zick, Adriene M. Beltz, Erin E. Wentz, Dale A. Ulrich, Leah E. Robinson, (2022) Relations among parent-reported physical activity and interoception in children, Physiology & Behavior https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0031938422002013#!
Orlando, A, Dolphin M. (Accepted July 2022) Survey of Physical Fitness Activity Among U.S. Collegiate Dancers. National Dance Society Journal.
Kuo YL, Lin DJ, Vora I, DiCarlo JA, Edwards DJ, Kimberley TJ.(2022) Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to Assess Motor Neurophysiology after Acute Stroke in the United States: Feasibility, Lessons Learned, and Values for Future Research. Brain Stim. Vol. 15 Issue 1, 179-181. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.brs.2021.12.001
Physical Therapy Faculty Presentations:
Kim, B. Accuracy of Computer Vision-based Markerless Motion Capture System to Analyze Human Movements. Combined Sections Meeting, APTA. San Antonio, TX. Feb. 2022..
Madonna, E; Neville, C. Development and Validation of a Biofeedback Gait Training Device. Combined Sections Meeting, APTA. San Antonio, TX. Feb. 2022..
Rufa A, Brooks, G, Dolphin M, Adams, K. Differences in LBP-Related Attitudes and Beliefs of Student Physical Therapists and Student Physical Therapist Assistants. Combined Sections Meeting, APTA. San Antonio, TX. Feb. 2022..
Carrier R, Madonna E, Greene J, Pancari J, Fisher BE, Kuo YL. Examining Unimanual Contributions to Bimanual Coordination in Professional Musicians and Musically Naïve Adults. APTA Combined Sections Meeting. San Diego, CA. Feb. 2023.
Schlueter K, Janowitz E, Brousseau R, Wentz EE, Kuo YL. Exploring the Impact of Including Total-Body Vibration in Physical Therapy Intervention on Activation of the Key Muscles of Gait in Young Children with Developmental Disabilities. APTA Pediatrics Annual Conference. Portland OR. Nov. 2022.
Ryan Paul Jacobson, Daniel Chang Yun Kang, Robert Allen Long, Mark T. Amendola, Jeff R. Houck. In Primary Care, Are Health Outcomes Consistent with Physical Therapists Judgement for Musculoskeletal Care? Combined Sections Meeting, APTA. San Antonio, TX. Feb. 2022.
Geiser, MB, Dolphin, M, Kolb, W, Adams, K. Snap-Crackle-Pop: Innovative Ways to Inspire Your Hand Skills Needed for Manipulation (Part 1) American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Therapists. San Diego, CA. Oct. 2022.
Vora I, Lin DJ, Kuo YL, Banks RE, DiCarlo J, Hochberg LR, Kimberley TJ. The Use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Upper Extremity Motor Assessment at the Bedside During Acute Stroke Hospitalization: A Feasibility Study. American Society of Neurorehabilitation. St. Louis, MO. Apr. 202.
Reid EB, Monson KG, Kuo YL. Neural Substrates Underlying Attentional Focus-Modulated Balance Performance. Combined Sections Meeting, APTA. San Antonio, TX. Feb. 2022.
Jeff Houck, Grace Douglas, Magaret Hagworth, Casey Ebert, Sally Guildenhaus, Fred Chang, Chris Hoekstra, Daniel Chang Yun Kang. Unique Communication Skills Are Associated with Strong Psychosocial Beliefs in Orthopedic Physical Therapists? Combined Sections Meeting, APTA. San Antonio, TX. Feb. 2022.
Sames C, DeBlois A, Allen A, Dermady A, Hart K. Utility of aquatic functional outcome measures during aquatic exercise in individuals with diverse chronic conditions. Combined Sections Meeting, APTA. San Antonio, TX. Feb. 2022.
Madonna, E; Neville, C. Validation of a Biofeedback Gait Training Device for use in patients with movement disorders. Combined Sections Meeting, APTA, San Diego, CA.. Feb. 2023.
Daniel Chang Yun Kang, Ryan Paul Jacobson, Robert Allen Long, Jeff R. Houck. What Physical and/or Psychological Health Outcomes Follow Collaborative PT/MD Treatment in Primary Care? Combined Sections Meeting, APTA. San Antonio, TX. Feb. 2022.
Associate Provost, Dean & Professor Emeritus, Augusta University:
Dr. Mishoe retired this year with a notable career in higher education spanning more than 4 decades. She served as Dean of the College of Health Sciences at ODU and in numerous roles at Augusta University as associate provost, dean of the College of Allied Health Sciences, associate dean, and department chair. She served two terms on the Board of Directors for ASAHP, as a past president of the Southern Association of Health Sciences Deans and as president for the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC). Dr. Mishoe is an internationally recognized leader in higher education who has earned prestigious fellowships from the American Association of Respiratory Care (AARC), the Association of Schools Advancing Health Professions (ASAHP) and the American Council of Education (ACE).
Dr. Mishoe has taught hundreds of courses to thousands of students in Respiratory Therapy, Global Health, Public Health, Health Management and Health Services Research. Her research addresses strategies to enhance management of patients with chronic respiratory disabilities and education of health professions students. Dr. Mishoe research focus is fostering students’ critical thinking, decision making and teamwork as well as patients’ quality of life. She has published 6 textbooks, 130 papers, technical reports, and book chapters, received 24 grants and contract awards totaling over $7M, made 66 presentations at scientific meetings or invited seminars, served as Co-editor of a special issue on Evidenced Based Medicine for the journal Respiratory Care and served on several editorial boards.
Recognition of some of her accomplishments include a John Broderick Diversity Award at ODU, the YWCA of South Hampton Roads Women of Distinction Award, and Outstanding Faculty Award from Augusta University. She has also received several awards from the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC) in recognition of her teaching, service and research including the Educational Practitioner of the Year Award, Delegate of the Year, Forrest Bird Literary Award, Bonner Smith Award for service to the profession and Honorary Lifetime Member.
Dr. Mishoe received a B.S. in Respiratory Therapy from SUNY Upstate Medical University, a M.Ed. from Augusta University, and a Ph.D. in Adult Education from the University of Georgia. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for Bon Secours Hampton Roads Healthcare and as the ASAHP representative to CoARC and ACME.
Dr. Mishoe established the SHELLEY MISHOE, PHD, ENDOWMENT FOR RESPIRATORY THERAPY, which provides funding for College of Health Professions respiratory faculty education.
~Majority of the text is excepted from the ASAHP 2022 Conference Speaker Profile
Seventh Year of the SPORTS PT ELECTIVE!
Go to our CHP Instagram to view a video clip! https://www.instagram.com/p/CkRD_l4rne-/
Last June's Radiation Therapy Department Gathering at Oneida Shores
Alumni Reunion / Retirement Party for Joan O'Brien
Over 100 in Attendance!
Joan O'Brien MSEd, RT(T), now Associate Professor Emeritus, retired at the end of 2021. Joan served on the faculty for 46 years!
In Joan's honor, the Radiation Therapy department has established the Joan O'Brien Scholarship Fund. Contributions may be made anytime:
- Online at:
https://www.upstatefoundation.org/JoanOBrien - By check or money order payable to "CHP Alumni Association," with a notation in subject line: Joan O’Brien Scholarship # 29800. Send to:The Upstate Foundation, 750 East Adams Street, CAB 326 Syracuse, NY 13210.
- By phone at 315-464-4416
- Through Community Giving: fund # 613-29800.
First Annual Community Impact Award
"Exploring the Impact of Including Total-body Vibration in Physical Therapy Intervention on Activation of the Key Muscles of Gait in Young Children with Developmental Disabilities,"
at the 2022 APTA Pediatrics Conference, November 18-20, 2022
Case Description: This case series followed six children between 20 months and 6 years old with varying levels of physical challenge. Three children were diagnosed with cerebral palsy (GMFCS levels I (P05), II (P03), and V (P06)), one with Tuba1A (P04), one with mutation of the CACNA1A gene (P02), and one with SMC1A (P01). All six participants had goals related to gait. The six participants were tested pre-intervention using the Modified Ashworth (MA), surface EMG (sEMG), and Gross Motor Function Measure-88 (GMFM-88).2,3,4,5 Muscle activation of bilateral RF, ST, and MG muscles was measured with sEMG during ambulation. The MA assessed spasticity in these muscles. Two GMFM-88 dimensions were assessed based on each participants’ level of function and goals. Participants completed a 12-week intervention that included an activity on the Hypervibe as well as gait related activities.6,7 At 12 weeks, participants were re-tested using the MA, sEMG, and GMFM-88.
Outcomes: P01 demonstrated a 2% and 5% increase in GMFM-88 dimensions A and B. P02 demonstrated a 12.8% increase in dimension D. P03 demonstrated a 23.1% and 36.1% increase in dimensions D and E. P04 demonstrated a 2.6% and 1.4% increase in dimensions D and E. P05 demonstrated a 7.8% and 13.9% increase in dimensions D and E. P06 demonstrated a 2.6% increase in dimension D. No changes were noted in MA. Muscle activation (calculated as the root mean square value) increased in five to six target muscles in all participants (range of group means: 36.5%-59.9%, median: 43.6%) after receiving the intervention. Additionally, sEMG data showed more physically involved participants demonstrated more muscle activation percent change.
Discussion: The GMFM-88 was utilized due to its ability to detect changes in gross motor function in physically involved children.4,5 All participants demonstrated functional improvements as measured by the GMFM-88, with greater gains noted in participants with less physical involvement. P02, P03 and P05 demonstrated significant improvements while P01, P04 and P06 demonstrated mild improvements in measured dimensions.4,5 Increased muscle activation in the lower extremity at the pathophysiologic level was evident in all participants especially those with more severe motor impairments. Improved muscle activation is a precursor to functional change; and functional change is often harder to elicit in more physically involved children. Findings suggest promise for adding total-body vibration to interventions to prompt meaningful change in function for children with varying physical challenges.
Upstate Students – do you have an innovation idea that responds to an unmet need?
For over 13 years, the New York Business Plan Competition program has had significant impact:
- Over $150M+ invested, including follow-on funding for 100+ startups
- Hundreds of innovative solutions and patented technologies created
- Nearly 50% participation from under-represented students each year
- New this year: up to $100k in prize money will be awarded to winning teams.
Students across New York State are gearing up to pitch their student-led ventures at the 13th Annual New York Business Plan Competition (NYBPC), New York’s statewide intercollegiate business plan competition. The NYBPC provides opportunities for students enrolled in colleges and universities across the state to gain entrepreneurial experience and compete on their ingenuity.
The Central New York Regional Competition will be held in late March 2023. Finalists from all NYS regions will move on to a virtual semi-final with ten teams selected from the semi-finals to participate in the NYBPC Finals to be held April 27, 2023 in Syracuse, NY.
The Business Plan Competition Rule Book is available on the website: https://nybpc.org/students2023 If you are interested in applying to the NYBPC, applications will open January 1. Internally, Upstate resources with the Industry Research Office and CNY Biotech Accelerator, can assist you with your project application and pitch deck development as well as locating additional team members you may need to move your innovation forward. For more information, please contact: Chris Neville, PhD nevillec@upstate.edu or Kathi Durdon durdonk@upstate.edu
One more reason to pursue a degree at the COLLEGE OF HEALTH PROFESSIONS!
As part of UPSTATE MEDICAL UNIVERSITY with its state-of-the-art facilities, CHP offers multiple opportunities for STUDENT-BASED RESEARCH!
#studentledRESEARCHatCHP
#researchatCHP #chpatupstate
https://www.upstate.edu/chp/
For more information on the 2023 MEDICAL DEVICE INNOVATION CHALLENGE: https://cnybac.com
Follow Us on Social Media
790 Irving Avenue
Syracuse, NY 13210
Preparing and educating highly skilled health professionals
to serve the future needs of our society.