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RVUers Party Like It's 1929

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US Ski Team Trains with RVUCOM

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'Tis the Season to Celebrate

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VISTA VIEWFebruary 2015

Newsletter

FIRST PLACE

AACOM Excellence in

CommunicationsAward

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Inside

RVUCOM Global Medicine Track Provides Care in Kenya

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With the beginning of the new year comes the “State of the City,” “State of the State,” or even, “State of the Union” addresses, so it seems appropriate to offer a “State of the University” address. Let me first say the State of the University is excellent and very healthy! We have accom-plished a lot in eight years and we should feel exceedingly proud. We should also look ahead to our bright future and plan accordingly; but first, let's focus on several successes.

First, high-fives all around as we continue to reach new heights with our academic accolades for the College of Osteopathic Medicine. We had very impressive results on our COMLEX scores. We are regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and are the first and only COM in the nation to receive accreditation from the American College of Surgeons for the use of our cut suit and Surgical Simulation Center. Our admission outcomes continue to increase: this year, we are currently over 5,500 applications for our 162-seat class. Speaking of our class size, we are one of the largest medical schools in the region and are gaining new partners and collaborators because of our high-quality students and impressive outcomes.

Second, each of our three graduated classes has 100% resi-dency placement and it looks like our fourth graduating class is shaping up to have similarly high placement. The recent military and DO matches were outstanding and we expect continued success with the MD match processes which will be completed soon. Our alumni have been out-standing Residents and we know from our informal count that about two dozen have become Chief Residents. We continue to be amazed with the publications and presen-

tations they are contrib-uting, as well. Our suc-cessful graduates are the strongest calling card pos-sible and we are proud of their accomplishments.

Third, our financial affairs are solid and we have been great stewards of the University’s resources.Just last year, we were ranked by US News &

World Report as the 10th least expensive private medi-cal school in the nation—a great recognition for RVU and it speaks volumes about our prudence with resources. We have invested in and improved our facilities, providing all the technological tools necessary for a first-class medical educa-tion. We are fortunate to have a facility that was designed to accommodate over 1,000 students, faculty, and staff—al-lowing us to be strategic about our future and to maxi-mize our resources. Fourth, these successes allow us to think boldly and cre-atively about our future. We have the luxury of working to fulfill our vision as a comprehensive health sciences university by adding new programs and locations. Im-plementing a new Physician Assistant program is a long process, but we have begun by receiving preliminary ap-proval to develop our program. It will take several years to obtain final approval by the PA accrediting body, so we plan to enroll the inaugural class in July 2018. As you are probably aware, the process to open an additional RVU-COM location in Utah is well underway and requires ap-proval by COCA, which we anticipate this spring. We also anticipate adding a master’s degree program (perhaps a Master of Biomedical Sciences) over this next year. With expansion comes growth in the number of students, staff, and faculty. Growth is good but coordinating expansion is the better approach and we look forward to working with all to accomplish these planned additions.

One of the most difficult aspects of success is maintaining it. A key to continued success is the contribution of our caring and dedicated faculty and staff who make RVU special. Even though many other COMs review our cur-riculum and try to replicate it, they cannot be successful as they do not have each of you to make it work. It does ‘take a village’ to achieve successes and just as many to keep them going. Thanks for all you do. Keep looking for-ward, as great changes are on the horizon for RVU.

State of the University: 2015 View Aheadby Cheryl D. Lovell, PhD, President and CEO

President's Message

Dr. Lovell presents a RVU jacket to Senator Cory Gardner

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The change from one year to the next naturally brings great anticipation and hopeful resolutions of greater things to come. Many resolve to change lifestyles or break old hab-its. However, turning those resolutions into sustainable ac-tions is an enormous task many fail to achieve. To be suc-cessful, we must not focus on past failures or unachievable goals. Instead, we should change what we can in small in-crements and dismiss or accept that which we cannot. Sir William Osler, the greatest clinician of the 20th and 21st centuries, said, “Shut out all of your past except that which will help you weather your tomorrows.”

As we begin a new semester, this is good advice for all of us. We need not get mired in past challenges or fail-ings—this only serves to weaken our resolve and cloud our vision. Throughout my four decades in medicine, I frequently encountered unsolvable problems that, as the community's physician, I was expected to solve. Osler said we should not allow this common fact of life to discourage us or bridle our true abilities to make a difference. I found that the time-honored tools of observation, palpation, aus-cultation, and contemplation—coupled with the courage to question and explore new ideas—could make an enor-mous difference. Great medical decisions and opinions are not limited to the hallowed halls of academic medi-cal centers or large urban hospitals. Those decisions come from physicians in all levels of practice every day. These are the physicians who want to make a difference in the lives of their patients. They do not shrink from the hard tasks or the seemingly impossible; they rely on their clini-cal reasoning powers and experience to formulate novel and revolutionary treatment modalities.

Here at RVU, we seek to develop in our students and resi-dents an unstoppable “can do” attitude and spirit which distinguishes a good physician from a great one. We want to nurture confidence when tackling complex clinical prob-lems that others may have judged as hopeless. We teach students to deliver care without relying solely on technol-ogy (such as invasive tests). They will be committed to the premise that diagnosis is best made by examining the pa-tient, rather than examining lab reports at a remote work station.

For the past year, we have worked with the idea of a pro-

cess for verifying that our stu-dents are competant in obser-vation, palpation, auscultation, contemplation, and many more competencies. Within medical education, this set of compe-tencies has become known as the 13 Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs). Presently, we are only one of 2-3 osteopathic schools to look at implement-ing this. Integrating it into our curriculum is an enormous task, but we feel it is the direc-tion our profession must follow. Students will be expected to do a history and physicial...but also, to know the nuanc-es of doing H&P in an office setting, on the medical ward, or in an emergency department. Students must know how to generate a simple record or SOAP note...but also, how to generate it electronically on standard electronic medical records platforms. Students must learn to work collabora-tively and effectively with all members of the health care team, from nurses and physicians' assistants to EMTs and lab personnel. RVU is well into the process of transforming our curriculum and methods to meet this newest require-ment for our students, and we will lead the way for the rest of our profession.

Medical advances and technology move so rapidly today that we have to be responsive to trends and ideas, prior to their implementation in regular practice. To ensure our education remains valuable and relevant, we must judge what practice will be like when our students enter residen-cy and adjust our curriculum accordingly. I am proud to say that our faculty and leadership are well aware of this prinicple and are working to make those critical adjust-ments, through continuous introspection and evaluation. We appreciate all the work and feedback you have given us and we will be asking for more in the future.

As we stand at the edge of the new year, we all face tasks and challenges that must be conquered. I encourage you to once again harken to the words of Osler, and we will begin to solve these issues and weather our tomorrows together.

Welcome to 2015.

Embracing Change in the New Yearby Thomas N. Told, DO, FACOFP, dist., Dean

Dean's Message

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In the country of Kenya, half of all expectant mothers will give birth without any medical care, the average adult will live to be 55 years old, and diseases such as malaria and HIV/AIDS cause many otherwise preventable deaths. Despite a population of 43 million people, there are less than 7,000 physicians.

With such challenges facing them, volunteers representing RVUCOM trav-eled to Kenya on January 8th, where they provided health care to people living in just north of the Tanzania border. Among these volunteers were faculty members, third-, and fourth-year students. Over the course of the trip, they cared for a variety of patients, surveyed animals in the wild, and enjoyed the company of the local residents.

As the team traveled to 14 small villages in 14 days, they quickly learned to rely on the translators, while focusing more on body language and clinical physical exam skills. “The most difficult learning experience was navigating the initial language barrier,” said Andrew Wendahl, OMS-IV.

Of the 1,500 patients served, approximately 700 children were treated for parasites—most commonly due to contaminated water. The other symptoms treated included musculoskeletal complaints, skin disorders, gynecologic issues, and chronic cough. Every day involved packing and unpacking tents, tables, chairs, and a full pharmacy. The crew worked by sunlight as they had no electricity, running water, or bathrooms. Jill Pitcher, DO, Assistant Professor of Family Medicine and Assistant Out-reach Director for Kenya, noted, “At the end of each day, we were hot, tired, and hungry, but every day I found myself listening to stories and laughter on the way home.”

RVUCOM Global Medicine Track Provides Care in Kenya

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"We are all people of the world, working for a common good."Andrew Wendahl, OMS-IV

Despite spending countless hours in the clinics, the group enjoyed seeing wild animals on their commute each day. Some people explored the Ngorongoro Conservation Area located west of Arusha, which is known for its large craters and vast array of wildlife (including zebras, elephants, black rhinoceros, lions and other felines). They also enjoyed the com-pany of the local Maasai—playing soccer on a beautiful yet imperfect patch of bumpy land with tree trunk "goal posts" and watching traditional Maasai song and dance at the farewell barbeque. In conclusion of the trip, SD Wendahl says he learned to interact and share ideals with a completely different culture. In doing so, he noted that the more time you spend with people of different cultures, the more you realize how much you have in common.

While the work of providing health care can be a tiresome and overwhelming task, it is often rewarding. "Overall, this was an excellent trip, filled with great medical learning opportunities and personal growth," stated Camille Bentley, DO, MPH, FACOFP, Chair of Global and Community Medicine and Outreach Director for Kenya. "We look forward to our return in the future."

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'Tis the Season... to Celebrate!

"Usually, if you have a

noisy crowd, they are having a good

time—and this crowd was pretty boisterous! Many people

told us it was our best party yet."

~ Kathy O'NeillHuman Resources Assistant

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December was a month of highs and lows: the beau-tiful decorations in the lobby; the stress of upcoming ex-

ams; the daily events and celebrations to attend; the stretch-ing of waistbands as more and more food made its way into the

school; and, of course, the anticipation of winter break (as well as the holidays themselves!).

On December 12th, faculty and staff of RVU arrived at the Lone Tree Golf Club to cel-ebrate another year of hard work and the resulting successes. One long table held a variety of

raffle prizes, while each dining table held glittering gift boxes—later discovered to be full of deca-dent treats. "People always enjoy winning a prize, so we tried to have the majority of people go home with

something," said Kathy O'Neill, Human Resources Assistant, who helped with the party planning. Moderated by emcee Peter Freytag, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer, raffle winners were selected for prizes such as plane tickets, hotel packages, and gift baskets. The big prize winners of the day were Camille Bentley, DO, MPH, FACOFP, Chair of Global & Community Medicine, and Fran Lata, Assistant Director of Student Financial Services, who each won a Keurig machine, as well as Brian Leary, Clinical Rotations Coordinator, who won an iPad. "This was my first RVU holi-day party and it was great," said Kelly Farr, Administrative Assistant to Human Resources. "Fast- paced, tasty food, very festive...and I won a great prize!”

The next day, RVU was front and center in the community, as the title sponsor for Town of Parker's Christmas Carriage Parade. The parade kicked off with several white coat-clad students—OMS-Is Ryan Frome, Cristina Cosner, and Olivia Klinkhammer—carrying a festive RVU banner. Following behind in a horse-drawn carriage were Cheryl D. Lovell, PhD, President and CEO; Thomas N. Told, DO, FACOP dist., Dean; Vinay Setty, OMS-II, President of the SGA; and Vijay Setty, OMS-II, SGA VP of Operations. (Photos on the following page.)

Toward the end of the month, the classrooms and offices emptied, the halls grew quiet, and the much-needed winter break officially began.

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Town of Parker Christmas Carriage Parade

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The Class of 2017 celebrated the season (and prepared for the days of intense studying that would soon follow) at Jagged Moun-tain Craft Brewery in downtown Denver.

There was an improv dance contest (surely, somebody must have video footage of this!), card games, and mingling and merriment with classmates, friends, and family. The ugly sweater contest was a particular high-light: Karly Fischer, OMS-II, said, "[The best part] was seeing how creative fellow classmates were with their ugly sweaters! A couple of the sweaters even lit up with twinkling lights—very cool."

As we learned during the Red Bench project last year, heart disease is a huge problem in America—particularly for women. To show support and raise awareness, RVUers attended the American Heart Association's 2014 Go Red Luncheon and Exposition last November.

Over a heart-conscious lunch (with empty salt shakers to empha-size making healthy decisions with each meal), attendees watched a presentation about the importance of heart disease awareness and the toll the disease can take. "The most meaningful part of the Go Red Luncheon," said Andrea Roth-Girtin, Executive Assistant to the Dean, "was meeting the family of Rekisha Harris, the Go Red Am-bassador who passed away last year. Her story was touching and brought awareness that this disease affects women of all ages. I had not realized it is the number one killer of women and is deadlier than cancer." The keynote speaker, local chef and host of Today's Flavor, Nikki Shaw offered tips for improving one's diet and health, including eating vegetables for breakfast and switching from fatty meats to lean meats such as turkey, chicken, and fish.

In the same vein of heart-health awareness, RVU students Laura Gibbons and Jessica Lerman, both second-year students, offered free blood pressure readings at the expo afterward.

Getting Heart-Healthy with the AHA

Class of 2017 Class President Eleni Weisnitch and Class Treasurer Matt Kalina

Eleni Weisnitch, Ashleigh Garton, Sarah Miller, and Karly Fischer

Sweaters, Stouts, and Second-Years

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Back row: Garrett Rota, Manny Lewis, Adam Olson, Elle Schultz; Middle row: Lexi Wilson, Michael Sperl, Luke Sugden, Patrick Wallace, Cory Carroll, Afia Ukor; Front row: Andrew Gray, Laurie Bezjian, Kala Jauquet, Paulina Altshuler, Abby Zinn, Sindi Diko

After much thought, a new team of student ambassadors was announced in January. With around 40 applications re-ceived, the task of choosing 16 ambassadors proved to be a challenge. A student ambassador is basically the “face” of RVU: giving tours, helping with events, and answering questions from a student’s perspective. “This year, the decision was especially difficult,” said Cassidy Chambers, Admissions Counselor, adding that the ambassadors are a special part of RVU’s recruitment team. “We often receive feedback that the ambassadors were friendly, candid and passionate about their school–which is really contagious for interested applicants and people in the community.” The Admissions team is confident they will do a great job in their new roles. Congratulations to the new team of student ambassadors!

Introducing the...

Class of '18 Student Ambassadors!

If you could have a candid, open discussion with the school's leaders, what would you ask? First-year students recently had this opportu-nity, when they sat down with Thomas N. Told, DO, FACOFP dist., for an unadulterated Q&A session, the first of a new "Breakfast with the Dean" series. They shared insights with Dean Told, and asked questions about rotations and residencies in Utah, the state of the DO and MD accreditation merger, and more.

“We created the 'Breakfast with the Dean' series to provide a chance for students to interact with me in a relaxed and face-to-face forum," said Dr. Told. "All questions are accepted and no subjects are excluded." An anonymous student who attended the breakfast said, “I felt reassured that we are in good hands with Dr. Told’s leadership and the direc-tion the school intends to go in the near future." Colby Pearson, OMS-I, commented, "It was nice visiting with Dr. Told, hearing his perspective, and having him address our questions."

With this ongoing series, the Dean hopes to foster a spirit of collaboration between the students and the leadership team. He also hopes to reiterate RVU's spirit of engagement and transparency, while encouraging students to trust in the leadership team for advice and direction.

Breakfast with the Dean

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Spread the Word! Marketing Department UpdatesThe Marketing department at RVU is a unique department in that we are here to help everyone: faculty, staff, and stu-dents. We promote departments and student clubs alike; we publicize the school, but we also help with special internal and community events.

We want to take a moment to tell you how we can help you. Here are the common services we provide:

o Community awareness o Promotion via social media and conventional mediao Photography o Signage and marketing collateralo Event planning and programs o Flyers, brochures, and guideso Press releases o Announcements in Vista View and on the blogo RVU letterhead and envelopes o HomeTown News

When should you contact Marketing? If you have an upcoming event and you are unsure what to do to promote it. Or you have just been promoted, published, or certified and would like to share the news. Maybe you need information updated on the website. Let us know!

There are a few new policy changes for the Marketing department, as well. • All flyers and other collateral must be approved by Marketing prior to distribution around the school and especially

in public, to maintain consistent branding and quality across the many clubs, departments, and organizations. • Marketing will provide the paper for all print jobs, unless the quantity is over 100 sheets or if you require a special

paper beyond what we normally stock. In this situation, your department or club will need to purchase the paper.• All marketing requests should be sent to Marketing@rvu.edu. Be sure to include the project name, quantity, details,

price, location, deadline, and if the event is open to the public.

If you would like to meet and talk with us prior to your project request or if you have any questions, contact Kelli Petersen, Marketing Manager, at kpetersen@rvu.edu.

9 Tips for Talking to the MediaDealing with the media can be nervewracking, but it can also be a boost to your career. To ease your mind and maximize your opportunity, here are some tips to consider if you are approached by the media.

• President Lovell is the official spokesperson for RVU and Dr. Told is the spokesperson for RVUCOM. If you are approached by the me-dia, refer them to Julie Rosenthal, Executive Director of Admissions & Marketing, at jrosenthal@rvu.edu. She will facilitate appropriate interviews and visits.

• Avoid gossip, speculation, or "uneducated guesses" when speaking with the media.• Show your school pride and mention RVU! Wear RVU apparel if you know you will be on camera.• If you decline to comment or interview, do so politely. Avoid saying, "No comment" as it comes across as negative.

Instead, refer them to Julie Rosenthal.• Saying "off the record" does not actually mean it's off the record. That is at the discretion of the reporter.• When writing or speaking an opinion, specify that that is your personal opinion—and not that of the school.• Remember patient confidentiality, even if the person is not exactly a patient. For example, a blood pressure reading

at an event, a wellness check at a school, or an OMT treatment on a family member is equally private information.• Along those lines, don't discuss anything that could be construed as either a HIPPA or FERPA violation.• If you have appeared in an interview or another media context, please notify Marketing.

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Amid artistic chandeliers, white curtains, and a backdrop of city lights, RVU students celebrated the 2015 Winter Ball in February. In keeping with the theme of the 1920s Prohibition era, they gambled (with chips and fake money) at the many casino tables. "The Prohi-bition theme took us all back in time and enabled us step out of our medical bubble," said Afia Ukor, OMS-I. Many people took the theme one step further, dressing in flapper-style dresses or accessorizing with suspenders and fedo-ras. "Some of the 1920s costumes were amazing," said Barrett Scott, OMS-II. "Who knew that flapper dresses translate so well to the 21st century?"

The event was held in the Raymond T. & Sally C. Duncan Pavilion at the Denver Art Museum, an elegant but modern venue. Scattered throughout the space were sculptures and wall art installations. SD Scott commented, "The fantastic Jillian Thompson (OMS-II, SGA VP of Student Welfare) secured the perfect location and worked so hard to make the night go off without a hitch!"

Partygoers were given $2,000 in fake money to either gamble with at the casino tables (and possibly earn more) or to spend on raffle tickets, in the hopes of winning such prizes as restaurant gift cards and discounts. Over $4,000 was raised through ticket sales, which will be donated to the Crisis Center. "I am so proud that we could help such a noble cause," said SD Scott. "I know that the money has gone to a group that truly helps those in need and is currently in dire need of financial backing."

Tonight We're Gonna Party Like It's 1929

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"It was definitely one of the most memorable nights. I am looking forward to it next year!"

~ Afia Ukor, OMS-I

"There were so many great prizes to bid on...especially the lunch with Barrett Scott, the dashing Communica-tions Officer for the SGA."

~ Barrett Scott, OMS-II

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AccreditationWe have received acknowledgement of receipt of the HLC Additional Location Application for a new location in Cedar City, Utah, and that it is currently out for review by a panel. A recommendation is due back any day now. Also, the preliminary proposal for a Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences (MSBS) degree program will be used to guide the HLC Substantive Change/New Program application. Our anticipated submission date is March 31, 2015. As for the PA program, Drs. Lovell and Williams attended the Provisional Accreditation Pathways Conference in November 2014, where they learned a great deal about the ARC-PA’s requirements, standards, and timeframes.

Assessment/SCALE!Last December, the President’s office sponsored a celebration for such accomplishments as the HLC and ACS accredi-tations, a very successful GME/OPTI inspection, five-year service awards, and promotions and new hires. Planning is underway for an Assessment Day in Spring 2015 which will include showcasing assessment innovations, models and trends, definitions and methods, improvements that have been made due to data results, workshops/training in outcomes assessment, and RVU processes and timelines. Next, SCALE! is moving forward with the implementation of the Data Warehouse, an electronic resource designed to store, manage, and distribute assessment data, statistical data, demographic information, and other important information from throughout the institution. SCALE! subcommittees will also be assisting with institutional survey reviews to determine common questions that should be included in each survey and identify the outcomes and data points we are trying to measure and accomplish. Subcommittees will also be assisting departments with collecting, reviewing, and revising existing “Fourteener” plans to ensure departmental strategic initiatives and assessments are mapped to institutional mission criteria.

Institutional Research Projects Dr. Williams continues assisting several teams and individuals with developing research designs, navigating the re-search process, compiling and analyzing data, and preparing studies for publication. She is also serving on the Institu-tional Review Board and the Research Committee. She will be conducting a Faculty Development workshop on March 25, 2015, entitled, “Research Methods and Data Management." Also, she will be working with the Research Methods and Statistics department at the University of Denver, arranging a partnership with their students to provide tutoring and mentorship in Statistics and Research Design to RVU students.

Integrated Post-Secondary Education Data System (IPEDS) The IPEDS winter data collection commenced and was submitted in February. Categories included Student Financial Aid, Graduation Rates, 200% Graduation Rates, and Admissions.

Strategic PlanningThe 2014-2019 RVU Strategic Plan, “SCALE! To Peak Performance,” was reviewed by the Board of Trustees to deter-mine if the strategic initiatives/goals were completed or still need to be completed. The Executive Team has developed recommendations for the 2015 strategic initiatives. Measures for the 2015 initiatives will be created after they are select-ed. Dr. Williams and the SCALE! Team are creating a plan to review, revise, and create new department strategic plans (Fourteeners) to include measures, outcomes, action items, timelines, responsible parties, and necessary resources. The anticipated completion date is March 31, 2015. All department plans will be rolled up into current institutional plans and will be adjusted after the 2015 initiatives are received from the Board of Trustees.

Title IX We have received final input on the RVU Title IX Policy and Procedures Manual from the legal team at Brownstein, Hyatt, Farber, and Schreck. The Executive Team has reviewed it but wants to identify a plan for education and train-ing prior to distributing it to the community. Dr. Williams convened a Title IX Education and Prevention Task Force, comprised of RVU representatives (including faculty, staff, and students). This ensures compliance with and advance-ment of Title IX requirements related to training, programs, and practices for our community. They are dedicated to establishing preventative and educational measures, ensuring a safe and respectful learning environment for everyone.

by Jennifer Williams, PhD, Exeutive Director of Institutional Planning and AssessmentWhat's New with RVU's Planning and Assessments?

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What would you do if you found yourself in a remote area with someone who needed medical attention?

Without the proper medical supplies, many would find themselves helpless in such a situation. Through the support of the Wilderness Medicine Student Interest Group (WMSIG), RVUCOM students re-cently learned wilderness medicine procedures that will enable them to make educated decisions should they find themselves in such a situation. The course, Advanced Wilderness Life Support (AWLS), combined lectures with hands-on simulations and covered topics such as high altitude medicine, lightning injuries, bites and stings, and other animal attacks.

Alicia Kincaid, OMS-IV, noted, “The best part of the course was getting to practice real wilderness medical skills and management during very well-done simulations. We learned how to deal with multiple patients and unsafe environments.” The simulations became more realistic as snow fell during the last day of the course. Luke Sugden, OMS-I, thought the course was very helpful and noted, “Wilderness medicine is every location outside of a hospital. If I am driving to school and there is a car ac-cident, that is wilderness medicine. I feel that all of us who were able to participate in the AWLS course will have a definite edge in the medical field.”

The twenty-three students who completed the course gained a three-year certifica-tion in AWLS. The Wilderness Medicine Student Interest Group is planning an-other course for springtime. For more information about the Wilderness Medicine Student Interest Group, contact Lauren.Warner@rvu.edu.

Students Gain Wilderness Medicine Skills through AWLS Course

2015 Courses Offered by the OPP Department:

Visceral Course, April 24-26, 2015This course will explore precise palpation of the abdominal viscera and pertinent diagnoses, the inher-

ent motion of the abdominal viscera, and treatment of disruption of the motility and mobility of selected abdominal organs. A faculty to student ratio of 1:6 will be provided to enhance learning.

20 hours of 1-A CME is anticipated from the AOA, pending approval.

40 Hour Introductory Cranial Course, May 4-8, 2015This course will include the five components of the primary respiratory mechanism, including articular, cerebrospinal fluid, fascial/membranous and nervous system anatomy. The basis for palpatory diagnosis

and treatment using Osteopathy in the Cranial Field for clinical problems relating to the cranium and else-where in the body will be explored. A faculty to student ratio of 1:4 will be provided to enhance learning.

40 hours of 1-A CME is anticipated from the AOA, pending approval.

Fulford Percussion Hammer Course taught by Richard Koss, DO, and Phase 5 of Biodynamics taught by Stefan Hagopian, DO, will be offered later in 2015.

John Walsh, OMS-II; Matt Stanton, OMS-II; Alicia Kincaid, OMS-IV; Rebekka Lee, OMS-I

Josh Tartakoff, OMS-II, strapped into a makeshift backpack

short board

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US Ski Team Trains with RVUCOM and the Cut Suit

Students with an interest in Family Medicine recently par-ticipated in a discussion with Kevin V. de Regnier, DO, FACOFP dist., President-elect of the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians (ACOFP). During his pre-sentation, Dr. de Regnier touched on his own experiences practicing as a Family Medicine physician, the business and political aspects of the industry, and the reasons behind the physician shortage that is expected in the United States.

"[Dr. de Regnier] has a world of experience and good ad-vice for students," said Thomas N. Told, DO, FACOFP dist.,RVUCOM Dean and Chief Academic Officer. "He has been a strong advocate for the profession and for student education."

Following the presentation, student officers of the RVU chapter of ACOFP had the privilege to meet with Dr. de Reg-nier over lunch.

ACOFP President-Elect Visits RVU

Student officers of the RVU student chapter of ACOFP, with Dr. de Regnier

• 3/5: DO Day on the Hill

• 3/6: Hospital Day

• 3/11-3/15: A. Hollis Wolf Competition at AOA Convocation

• 3/13: Rocky Mountain Research Forum

• 3/19: Breakfast with Dean Told

• 3/23: Diversity Week

• 3/26: RVU Open House

• April: Sexual Assault Awareness Month

• 4/20: ShaDO Day

• 4/24: Breakfast with Dean Told

• 5/7: Research Appreciation Day

• 5/8: Donor Memorial Ceremony

• 5/16: Graduation of Class of 2015!

Upcoming Events

RVUCOM recently teamed up with the United States Ski Team physicians for an annual training session, called Medi-cal Emergencies in Skiing and Snowboarding (MESS). This annual course, which took place in Beaver Creek, teaches physicians how to treat emergencies they may encounter specifically on the slopes.

Anthony Garzone, OMS-II, took part in an emergency scenario, wearing the RVU cut suit (a body suit that allows physicians and students to perform surgery and other invasive treatments) for added realism. SD Garzone reenacted a snowboarder who had collapsed with tension pneumothorax. The physicians had to identify his symptoms and take appropriate actions; this included assessing the ABCs (Airway, Breathing, and Circulation), instructing the team on assessing the rest of the body, and finally needle decompressing his chest.

There were several other stations set up on the slopes, such as loading and unloading patients from sleds, concussions, spinal injuries, and a femoral artery bleed, which also utilized the cut suit.

Gloria Beim, MD, FAAOS, Chief Medical Officer of

2014 Olympic GamesAnthony Garzone, OMS-II

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Volunteer Efforts

Rescue Mission Volunteers

• On a frigid night in downtown Denver, RVU student doctors—OMS-IIs Luke Lundeen, Kayla Lundeen, Matt Kalina, Colleen Bradley, and Ruth Campbell—served dinner to the homeless and bussed tables at the extremely busy Denver Rescue Mission. This is a homeless shelter which provides meals to those in need, as well as offering long-term mentorship programs. The students enjoyed the experience and being able to meet the people they served.

• As part of No-Shave November, the SGA raised money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. All month, students sported beards and mustaches to draw attention to the fundraiser, which ultimately donated over $400.

• RVUers were given the opportunity to play Santa to children of struggling parents, through the Dress a Live Angel program. By selecting an Angel Card, a Secret Shopper could buy the toy a child had asked for and place it under the RVU tree. In all, over 40 chil-dren benefitted from the kindness of students, faculty, and staff. For children in need overseas, Operation Christmas Child, which was coordinated by the Wellness Committee, encouraged RVUers to donate toys, school supplies, candy, and hygiene items. These items were collected in shoeboxes and distributed internationally. In all, 65 shoeboxes full of goodies were collected.

• In Blackfoot, Idaho, two RVU students—OMS-IIIs Derek Hayden and Tina Scoggins—participated in a golf tournament with oth-er internal medicine residents to benefit the Bingham Memorial Foundation, which provides health care awareness and enhances medical services for its local communities.

• The RCC/RVU was active this season, first with an Adopt-A-Fam-ily event and then with a winter coat drive. Through a collabora-tion with the Rotary Club of Parker, RVUers led groups of young adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities, shopping for a local family of eight who could not afford Christmas presents. Jesse Chen, OMS-I, said of the event, "Everyone I worked with was extremely kind and we had a lot of fun together. I'd be happy to do it again!"

• For the winter coat drive, RCC/RVU set up boxes to collect all kinds of winter gear, which was later given to the Denver Indian Center for distribution. In all, 70 articles of clothing were donated.

• To support DOCARE International, an organization which pro-vides much-needed healthcare to remote or indigent areas of the world, RVU volunteers helped sort medical supplies at a ware-house. Later, the ACOFP chapter at RVU collected over-the-counter medicine and hygiene items. These items were shipped to DOCARE in time for their next excursion to Guatemala.

Vinay Setty, OMS-II, presents the collected coats to Denver Indian Center

SD Chen with his Adopt-A-Family shopping group

Bingham Memorial Foundation golf tournament participants

DOCARE volunteers with Project C.U.R.E

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Isaac Billings, OMS-II, has been cho-sen to represent RVUCOM in the na-tional Student DO of the Year Award. The competition judges students on their leadership, commitment to com-munity service, dedication to the pro-fession, professionalism, and embodi-ment of the osteopathic philosophy.

Charles Hutchinson, OMS-IV, pre-sented research at the Special Opera-tions Medical Association Scientific Assembly (SOMSA) in Tampa, Flori-da. The research, “Stress Response as Measured by New Salivary Hormone Data during Immersion Training for Medical Military Officers” focused on using biomarkers to measure the physiologic response of the officers

during immersion training.

Brandon Noyes, OMS-III, presented research at the Special Operations Medical Association Scientific Assem-bly (SOMSA) in Tampa, Florida. The research, “Qualitative Effect of Light Source upon Visual Detection of Hu-man Packed Red Blood Cells Against Multi-Cam Flight Uniform in a Special Operations Aviation Flight Environ-ment” focused on comparing tactical

lighting systems in order to determine which best detects blood. Standard tactical lighting systems were compared to the new red green light system.

Kathryn Pate, PhD, Assistant Profes-sor of Physiology, has been published in the Journal of Applied Physiology for her research, “The beneficial ef-fects of exercise on cartilage are lost in mice with reduced levels of ECSOD in tissues.” The research explored the ef-fect of forced running as a surrogate for mechanical damage in a transgenic mouse with reduced extracellular su-

peroxide dismutase (ECSOD) tissue binding.

Joshua Told, OMS-II, published re-search in the International Fire Service Journal of Leadership and Manage-ment. His research, “Mind-Body Inte-grative Training: Firefighter Personal Protective Equipment” is focused on the effectiveness of using a mind-body integration model like Tai Chi for put-ting on firefighter protective equip-ment. This enabled recruits to acquire

the muscle memory necessary to put their gear on in 30 seconds or less and with fewer mistakes.

Rebecca Bowden, PhD, Professor and Director of Clinical Assessment and Simulation, has been selected as one of only six finalists to be an Item Writer for Certified Healthcare Simu-lation Educator (CHSE). Finalists are selected based on their specialized knowledge, abilities and accomplish-ments in simulation education

Achieving New HeightsHighlighting the Accomplishments of Our Faculty, Staff and Physicians in Training

More than 90% of RVU Military Medicine students secured their FIRST choice for a residency program. RVUCOM Dean, Dr. Thomas N. Told said: "The

programs they are entering are housed in the finest US military hospitals and training programs. [Some branches of service] allowed our students to serve as

military on active duty at prestigious civilian programs in their chosen field. RVU is a special school with a special curriculum and truly special people." Join

us in congratulating our military students on their accomplishments!

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Since the cut suit’s inception in 2012, Anthony LaPorta, MD, Professor of Clinical Surgery and Course Director of the Military Medicine Honors Track, and his mili-tary track students have traveled across the world, presenting research on it. Within the past year, the cut suit has been published twice on MEDtube.net with the videos, “Operating Room Crisis – The Video Opportunity” and “Operating Room Teach-ing.” It has also been featured in the book, Medicine Meets Virtual Reality 21 with its research, “How Blended Hyper-Realism in the Real and Virtual Worlds Can Better Prepare Surgeons.”

In addition to these publications, research has been presented at several notable conferences, including: Southeastern Surgical Congress, American College of Sur-gery Accredited Education Institute (ACS-AEI) Simulation Congress, Society in Eu-rope for Simulation as applied to Medicine (SESAM), Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada – Simulation Summit, and Special Operations Medical Association Scientific Assembly (SOMSA). “The cut suit style training, also known as the Intensive Surgical Skills course, has been named by the ACS-AEI to be a best practice for surgical educa-tion in the United States," said Dr. LaPorta. "That in itself says that we are on the right track"

With many more presentations on the horizon, Dr. LaPorta and the military track students will continue to travel the world, publicizing and promoting the research on the cut suit. Of the military track students' contributions, Dr. LaPorta said, “[They] have made us respected and deeply involved in both military and civilian simulation training.”

Achieving New HeightsHighlighting the Accomplishments of Our Faculty, Staff and Physicians in Training

Achieving New HeightsHighlighting the Accomplishments of Our Faculty, Staff and Physicians in Training

The Cut Suit Gains International Recognition

Charles Hutchinson, OMS-IV, and Brandon Noyes, OMS-III

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Welcome to our New Faculty and Staff!Drew Ambler, DOAssistant Professor of OPP

Dr. Ambler earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Ursinus College and his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. Following his residency in Internal Medicine at Genesys

Regional Medical Center, he completed a fellowship in Infectious Disease at Botsford General Hospital in Michi-gan. He later worked in various private practices, includ-ing Colorado Infectious Disease Associates, and has set up numerous Antibiotic Stewardship Programs for a wide array of facilities ranging from academic centers to small rural hospitals. His desire to give back to the osteo-pathic profession brought him to RVUCOM.

In his spare time, Dr. Ambler enjoys experimenting in the kitchen and increasing his collections of music and watches. He is an avid Philly sports fan and enjoys spend-ing time with his wife and two boys. An interesting fact about him is that he grew up around Philadelphia but has never seen the Liberty Bell. Welcome, Dr. Ambler!

Andrea Roth-GirtinExecutive Assistant to the Dean

Andrea was born in Pottsville, Pennsylvania, grew up in Fairfax, Virginia, but has called Colorado home for 16 years. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Care Science from the University of Colorado in Colorado Springs and

has 20 years of administrative experience. Prior to RVU, she was the executive assistant for the CEO/president of an engineering firm. She also worked as manager of ad-ministration for a residential facility for children. She is excited to be a part of RVU because it combines her pas-sion of higher education with her enjoyment for learning about medicine.

Outside of work, Andrea enjoys spending time with her two children and retired Air Force husband. She enjoys seeing new places and being active outside with biking, hiking, rowing, skiing, and camping (and she plans to try

ice climbing this winter). A little-known fact about her is that she has successfully completed the Hawaiian Iron-man Triathlon. Welcome, Andrea!

Andrew W. Vosko, PhDAssistant Professor of Neuroanatomy/Gross Anatomy

Dr. Vosko earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor with a dual concentration in Biopsychology and Japanese Language and Literature. He completed his PhD in Neurosci-

ence at the University of California, Los Angeles. His re-search has focused on biomedical education and sleep and circadian rhythms. Prior to RVUCOM, he worked as an assistant professor and chair of Basic Sciences at Southern California University of Health Sciences. He is excited to be teaching neuro and joining the Structural Medicine team at RVUCOM: "I had a great feeling after meeting the faculty."

In his spare time, Dr. Vosko enjoys Tai Chi, yoga, hik-ing, and playing the clarinet. A fun fact about him is that he has an IMDB profile after acting as an extra in a few films. Welcome, Dr. Vosko!

Jodie WangGME/RMOPTI Administrative Assis-tant

Jodie Wang is originally from Tai-yuan, China. After earning her Bachelor of Arts degree from Shanxi University in China, she came to the United States and worked as an ex-ecutive assistant for a non-profit in-

ternational organization for over 10 years.

She has volunteered on several medical focused mission trips and looks forward to growing with the university.

When not at work, you’ll find Jodie with her two daugh-ters, playing tennis, running, biking, and skiing. An in-teresting fact about her is that she never had a fortune cookie until she came to the United States! Welcome, Jodie!

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Promotions and New AppointmentsRebecca Bowden, PhD, has been appoint-ed to Chair of the Department of Biomed-ical Sciences. She will also continue her roles as Director of Clinical Assessment & Simulation and Professor of Immunolo-gy. Dr. Bowden has been with RVU since 2008. Congratulations, Dr. Bowden!

Jenifer Fisher has been promoted from Library Clerk to Library Assistant. Jenifer has been with RVU since 2014. Congratu-lations, Jenifer!

Katy Hunsberger has been promoted from Assistant Director of Admissions to Associate Director of Admissions. Katy has been with RVU since 2008. Congratulations, Katy!

Michael Martin has been appointed As-sociate Dean for Integrated Curriculum. He will also continue his role of Associate Professor of Immunology. Dr. Martin has been with RVU since 2008. Congratula-tions, Dr. Martin!

Bonnie Robinson has been promoted from Library Clerk to Library Assistant. Bonnie has been with RVU since 2011. Congratulations, Bonnie!

Tina Underwood has been promoted from Assistant Director of Clinical As-sessment and Simulation to Associate Di-rector of Clinical Assessment & Simula-tion. Tina has been with RVU since 2012. Congratulations, Tina!

Meet Your RVU Exam Proctors!Meet the fine folks who are responsible for ensuring academic integrity during exams at RVU!

Bruce Cairns has been proctoring at RVU for one semester and says that he has had fun engaging with the students and learning new things in the post exam reviews (PERs). In his spare time, he enjoys keeping up on current events and spending time with his six grandchildren.

Amy Cox has been proctoring at RVU for three years. Her favorite part about proctoring is getting to lis-ten to the post exam reviews. In her spare time, she enjoys crafting, bak-ing and going on adventures with her husband and son.

Susan Einarsen has been proctoring at RVU for five years. She enjoys the flexibility of the job and meeting new students. In her spare time, she en-joys quilting, scrapbooking, and tak-ing care of her new grandson.

Linda Parker has been proctoring at RVU for one year. She enjoys in-teracting with the students and the friendly environment on campus. In her spare time, she enjoys travel, snowshoeing, and running.

Peter Parker has been proctoring at RVU for three years. He likes work-ing with the physicians, professors,

and students. In his spare time, he enjoys traveling, golf, and tennis.

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Dear Fellow Alumni,

First, I would like to wish you all a very happy and healthy new year. I hope everyone is doing well and had a nice holiday season!

Many residency programs are gearing up for accepting their new intern class, which means that we will have new alumni to add to our Rocky Vista Alumni family very soon. Good luck to the current 4th year students as they find out which residency programs they will be starting in July and congratulations to the members of the military who matched this past December.

Our current alumni continue to do great things within their residency programs. In our day-to-day routine, we are teaching medical students; lecturing to attendings, residents, and medical students; and most of all, taking care of our patients in the compassionate manner RVU has taught us to do. Also, several current alumni have published articles in the medical literature and presented posters at local and national conferences.

Multiple national conferences are coming up in the new year. If you are planning to attend any conferences, please let us know so we can try to organize a “meet and greet” for the RVU alumni in attendance. Good luck to all the PGY-III Family Practice residents who are taking the osteopathic manipulation part of their boards at the annual ACOFP conference in March.

The Alumni Association continues to work on your loan repayment concerns. The RVU board has read the letter ad-dressing our concerns and we are just waiting for a reply. As soon as the Alumni Association has a response from the loan holders, we will gladly update all alumni. To stay updated on this issue, please join the Rocky Vista University Alumni Association Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/RVUAlumniAssociation

We also encourage all alumni to become active members of the Association. The resident rate is $25 dollars per year while in residency. You can either pay this annually or all of your residency dues at once. Please support your Alumni Association and your school! Remember, RVU taught you the skills that make you an excellent resident!

If there is anything else your Alumni Association can do for you, please email me at hkatz@browardhealth.org or Julie Rosenthal at Jrosenthal@rvu.edu.

Wishes for only success and happiness in 2015!

Sincerely,

Heather Katz, DO '12Alumni Association President

From the Rocky Vista University Alumni Association

V UALU M N I

A S S O C I A T I O N

Upcoming Alumni Events and News

• The 2015 ACOFP Annual Convention and Scientific Seminars will be held in Las Vegas, Nevada from March 12-15, 2015.

• The 2015 Internal Medicine Board Review Course will be held in Las Vegas, from March 18-22, 2015.

Let us know if you'll be attending either event!

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Attending Status and Fellowships

Kristen Herbert, DO '12, has accepted a fellowship position in Pediatric Emergen-cy Medicine in Norfolk, Virginia.

Mark Himes, DO '12, has accepted a sports medicine fellowship at JPS Hospi-tal in Fort Worth, Texas.

Andrew Lewandowski, DO '12, has signed on as a Pediatrician in Madison, Wisconsin.

Justin Rose, DO '12, has accepted a fel-lowship in emergency ultrasound at the University of Kentucky in Lexington, Kentucky.

Krissy Scaff, DO '12, has signed on as an Internal Medicine physician at Parkview Medical Center in Pueblo, Colorado.

Rachel Sy, DO '12, has accepted a fellow-ship in child and adolescent psychiatry in Hawaii.

Publications

Kelly J. Buerger, DO '12, published a case report in BMJ Case Reports, entitled, "Al-ternating hemidystonia following trau-matic brain injury as an unusual presenta-tion of paroxysmal autonomic instability with dystonia syndrome.

Engagements, Marriages, and Births

Lydia Hostetler, DO '13, became engaged to Cory Coppock.

Joseph LaRouche, DO '12, and Jane Morris, DO '12, were married.

Sandy Steutleberg, DO '12, and her hus-band welcomed a daughter, Peyton.

Joseph Krakker, DO '13, and his wife welcomed a son, Bennett.

Tyler Lewandowski, DO '13, and his wife welcomed a daughter, Raya.

From the Rocky Vista University Alumni Association V U

ALU M N IA S S O C I A T I O N

congratulations to all of our alumni on their achievements!

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To make comments, suggestions, submissions, or to be added to the newsletter mailing list, please email marketing@rvu.edu

Rocky Vista University provides quality healthcare education while inspiring students to serve with compassion, integrity and excellence.

Donor AppreciationCeremony

Honor those who generously donated their bodies to RVU, contributing to the medical

education of tomorrow's physicians.

May 8, 2015

explore RVUCOMMarch 26, 2015 Open House

TourS• Curriculum Overview• Special Breakout sessions

Save the Date!