Dear Fellow Midwestern University Alumni:
My name is Raman Saini, and it is my privilege to be the inaugural President of the Midwestern University Alumni Diversity Council and a 2015 graduate of the College of Health Sciences Clinical Psychology Program on the Downers Grove, IL Campus. The Alumni Diversity Council's purpose is to serve as ambassadors of the University and mentors to current Midwestern University students of color and to provide thoughtful insight, guidance, and recommendations on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion-related initiatives.
I am honored to share with you this issue of the Alumni Pulse in celebration of Women's History Month. March is dedicated to commemorating the contributions of women in American history and recognizing the extraordinary accomplishments of strong women. Women have consistently demonstrated strength, determination, and resilience from the early suffragettes to modern-day trailblazers.
Women have played an essential role in healthcare for centuries, and it is important to celebrate the leaders who are making tomorrow's history. Despite barriers, women have become successful healthcare providers and have advanced to the same stature, responsibility, and prestige as their male counterparts in healthcare and academic institutions.
In this edition of our newsletter, we are featuring female MWU alumni leaders, student leaders, and faculty leaders who are making a difference in their respective fields. These women are an inspiration and a testament to the power of determination and hard work.
You can show your support for women in healthcare by posting on social media using the hashtags #womenhistorymonth and #MWUProud and please tag Midwestern University at LinkedIn: @MidwesternUniversity, Facebook: @MidwesternUniversity, Twitter: @MidwesternUniv, or Instagram: @midwesternuniv to thank these women.
In addition to celebrating Women's History Month, we also share with you updates, stories, and events happening on our campuses and in our community. I hope you enjoy reading this edition of the Alumni Pulse.
Best regards,
Raman K. Saini, Psy.D. `15
Midwestern University
Alumni Diversity Council President
Asal Azizoddin, Pharm.D., BCPS, College of Pharmacy, Glendale (CPG 2014)
Oncology Pharmacist, UCLA Health | Burnout/Wellness Coach, Asal Dean Services | Creator of The Gratitudegrams
Who are your female role models?
I am lucky to have so many! My top female role models are: Oprah Winfrey, Amelia Earhart, Eleanor Roosevelt, Frida Kahlo, Margie Blevins (my English high school teacher), and Irene Tan (my piano teacher). These powerful women were/are leaders through their powerful voices and actions.
Oprah’s gift and talent to connect with people through her interviewing skills is something that leaves me in awe to this day. Growing up, I always enjoyed watching her shows and how she would highlight stories and formulate lessons for the audience to learn from those who were interviewed. She is also someone who is charismatic, funny, and does good work on an international level, which I greatly admire!
Amelia Earhart followed her passion: flying! Her courageous and dedicated efforts taught me at a young age that I can pursue anything I put my heart and mind to.
Eleanor Roosevelt has a famous saying, “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent,” and this famous quote reminds me I have the power to choose who can and cannot reach me through their words.
Frida Kahlo, a world-renowned Mexican artist, is my role model because of her leadership and creativity, despite the health conditions and physical challenges she faced during her lifetime. Her artwork is powerful on many different levels, and she has positively influenced many.
I had many teachers who I looked up to, and the two women who had the greatest impact in my life were Marjie Blevins and Irene Tan. These women were my biggest advocates; they supported me to “follow my bliss,” continue with my creativity, work as a professional, and be a loving, kind, and powerful woman anywhere and everywhere I go.
What advice do you have for women who want to go into healthcare careers?
- Balance is KEY! Work hard and play hard. As much as you dedicate your time and energy to your profession, take time to take care of yourself. Find what brings you joy and “fills your cup” outside of work and make those an equal priority. If your “cup” is empty, how will you be able to be the best healthcare professional to those who need your help? Take care of yourself— whatever that may be.
- Focus on teamwork. Whether you are a student studying for exams or part of a team of professionals providing care for a patient, be a team player and succeed with your team. Healthcare is in the direction of serving patients in a “team-like” fashion. Put the competition aside and keep the final goal in mind.
- Practice kindness and compassion with yourself, those around you, and those you serve. You will make mistakes. You will encounter people who are unkind. You will have “hard days.” The learning curve in healthcare is high, and we must not forget — we are all on a journey of learning and growth every day. Every day is a magical opportunity, and throughout these days, being kind and compassionate with yourself and those around will make the world a better place. Being tough on yourself and/or others won’t help you, and if anything, will hold you back. It’s a small world out there, especially in healthcare… contribute to make the world a kinder place.
Click here to learn more about Asal Azizoddin, Pharm.D., BCPS
Merima Bucaj, D.O., FAAFP (AZCOM 2011)
Family Physician, Midwestern University Comprehensive Care Clinic – Central Phoenix | Clinical Assistant Professor, Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine | Program Director Abrazo Family Medicine Residency | Chair of Family Medicine, Abrazo Central Campus
Who are your female role models?
My female role models include my mom, Dervija Bucaj, who sacrificed everything to offer me an opportunity to live my dream, so much so that it meant growing up without her physically present with me but supporting me from a different continent while caring for my ill father. My sister, Mubera Madar, is another of my role models. She showed me that anything is possible through hard work as she worked two to three jobs at a time while attending school, and worked her way to great success in her career. My other female role model is Dawn Noggle, a strong woman who, despite having a busy career, volunteered her time consistently to make those around her better and stronger with kindness and support, and always with grace.
Did you have a female mentor while you were at MWU? Yes - Shannon Scott, D.O., current Medical Director, MWU Multispecialty Clinic, and Assistant Dean, Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine. She was always and still is so very knowledgeable, kind, and tough. She pushed me to be the best version of myself, gave excellent advice, and always was and is a great advocate and representative of family medicine and community outreach. She inspired me to always leave a place better than I found it.
What advice do you have for women who want to go into healthcare careers?
Stay true to yourself, work hard, and find your people. What I mean by that is find the specialty that speaks to you and awakens your curiosity and excitement for the field, and never let anyone tell you what specialty you can and cannot do.
Click here to learn more about Merima Bucaj, D.O., FAAFP
Rinku A. Patel, RPh, Pharm.D. (CPDG 2002)
Chief Executive Officer, OptioRx
Who are your female role models?
My grandmother, Anandi Baa, is my greatest inspiration. In the 1950s and 1960s, living in India, the culture was nowhere near that of the female empowerment and equality we see today in modern-day India. Without the opportunity to pursue an education, my grandmother could not read or write her native language. It always bothered her that she had no chance to go to school and get an education. She always used to joke about how she could have become the prime minister of India had she been educated.
She is my role model, not just because she was my grandma but because she remained committed to educating her children despite life's struggles. She lost her husband in her 30s, leaving her with minimal financial resources while living in a place that did not culturally embrace women's empowerment through education. Yet, because of her resilience, hard work, and commitment, she focused her efforts against all odds towards educating her kids, especially her daughters, with graduate degrees at a time when women did not even finish school. Not only that, she sent them all to America, resulting in me being able to live here and pursue whatever education I desired! She is my role model, and I am inspired by her daily, especially when facing my most formidable challenges as a CEO. I know that if she could overcome all odds to raise strong daughters in a culture, country, and environment that was exactly opposite of what the world has come to embrace today, then I have no excuses for not being able to march onward and upward living in America.
What advice do you have for women who want to go into healthcare careers?
When I look at various sectors of the economy, healthcare is a laggard on many fronts, be it service, streamlining care, simplifying patient engagement, using appropriate technology integration, etc. It is an area of great opportunity for those that want to make a difference, but it requires hard work, commitment, passion, and willingness to dedicate your life to a cause you believe in as a healthcare provider. I would encourage women in healthcare to diversify their experience in various practice areas.
Doing the same job for 20 years equates to about two years of professional experience. However, going after variability and expanding your breadth and depth of healthcare expertise will provide you with an enriching professional experience from a self-fulfillment and financial growth standpoint. We often forget that professional opportunities are built on the same principles of human interactions we value at a personal level. These are values of trust, friendship, and service. By building strong networks with these values, seeking help and yet being helpful, and leaning in on our networks to continually evolve and grow is the key to a long-lasting career in healthcare.
Click here to learn more about Rinku A. Patel, RPh, Pharm.D.
Shenin Sachedina, D.O., FACOS (CCOM 1990)
Founder of the Central Florida Breast Center, P.A., in Winter Park, Florida
Who are your female role models?
My mom, Roshan Sachedina. My mom had a fourth-grade education. She grew up in the boondocks of Africa. She came to the United States as a refugee with my dad and four children, ages three to 15, from Uganda. I was nine when we came to the U.S.
There was a church that sponsored us here and she became a cook there and later worked as a nurse’s aide. She learned to speak English by watching Sesame Street with my three-year-old brother. My mom – and my dad – did an amazing job raising us. My dad worked at the Caterpillar factory on the assembly line. My parents literally came to the U.S. with nothing. Yet, they instilled in us a love for this country and the importance of education. We all went to college and have successful careers.
My parents also taught us the importance of gratitude. And that is something that has inspired my philanthropy work which includes promoting breast cancer awareness, providing medical equipment for breast cancer screens to mobile clinics in Africa, and supporting families dealing with a cancer diagnosis.
What advice do you have for women who want to go into healthcare careers?
Go into medicine with a very open and clear mind and know that you will get to do this extraordinary thing and help people and take care of them. But, you can still have a balanced life with a family and with other hobbies. And, I would highly encourage them to have hobbies because they enrich you as a person and are a great way to communicate with patients because you can meet them on a more human level. I am also blessed to be married to my husband, Aziz Jasani, who is a corporate executive who left his job to come and work side by side with me at my clinic. He handles all the financial side of things, so I can concentrate on caring for my patients.
Click here to learn more about Shenin Sachedina, D.O., FACOS
Madison Snow, M.S. (CHS-Downers Grove, Speech-Language Pathology 2019)
Who are your female role models?
My biggest female role model is my grandma. She was a hard worker and was the perfect example of a woman who handled every situation with grace and kindness.
What advice do you have for women who want to go into healthcare careers?
In whatever you do, work hard, strive for the best, but do it with kindness and humility. Many times, as women, we feel the need to prove ourselves and we quickly compare. However, in the healthcare world, nothing is more beneficial to you or your patients than approaching situations with kindness and a willingness to learn.
Click here to learn more about Madison Snow, M.S.
Sophia Stocks, D.P.M., Arizona College of Podiatric Medicine (Class of 2017)
Arizona Foot & Wound Specialists | www.azfootandwound.com.
Who are your female role models?
My # 1 female role model is my mom, Suzan Lee. She carried and nurtured me in her womb for nine months and then fed me, clothed me, shaped my faith, and lived a selfless life as a mother so that I could grow up and have the opportunity to obtain a doctorate level education. Now I have the chance to pass on this love and compassionate care to my staff and my patients. Another female role model for me is Mother Teresa of Calcutta. In the great and little things that she did for others, she visualized providing this care to Jesus. When I hold the feet of my patients in my hands-it reminds me of when Mother Teresa considered her works as holding Christ in her hands when treating their sicknesses and ailments.
What advice do you have for women who want to go into healthcare careers?
My advice for women who want to go into healthcare careers is to believe in yourself. Wake up, look in the mirror and tell yourself everyday: “I am beautiful. I am strong. I am able.” Chanting these words daily helps me to leave the world a better place today than I found it yesterday through every interaction and every move that I make knowing it will have a ripple effect. First believe, then do. For me, I sprinkle all of that with a touch of faith and prayer and nothing can stand in my way.
Click here to learn more about Sophia Stocks, D.P.M.
Honoring Our early women graduates
The women listed below are among the earliest of our graduates of what was known then as the American College of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery (now Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine). They include individuals who had distinguished careers as early 20th century physicians. One was heavily involved in the suffragette movement; another partnered with her husband to create and copyright a chart illustrating physiological chemistry, which was the first of its kind and was widely disseminated in medical schools according to the Des Moines County Iowa Review. Another was a descendent of George Washington. All should be celebrated - these physicians broke barriers and paved the way for generations of women to follow in healthcare.
Dr. Nancy (Nanny) R. Ball-Baughman (1865-1948) Class of 1902
Dr. Clara Caldwell (unknown) Class of 1902
Dr. Leila Gordon Scott (unknown – 1956) Class of 1902
Dr. Francis D. Smith (AKA Della Francis Smith) Class of 1902
Dr. Clara L. Todson (1868-1925) Class of 1902
a Special Thank you to our alumni leaders
As the Midwestern University (MWU) Alumni Senate President, I have the great honor of recognizing the remarkable achievements and contributions of our female alumni leaders. These women have established a formidable connection and showcased exceptional leadership abilities at MWU. Their strength and determination serve as an inspiration to other women who aspire to make a positive impact on the MWU community and through their healthcare professions. The accomplishments of these women encourage and empower more women to pursue leadership roles and take on challenges with confidence and resilience. Women bring unique perspectives and experiences that can enhance any organization or community, and their contributions are indispensable for the progress and triumph of Midwestern University.
Today we are celebrating all of our current women leaders, as well as those who came before us, who broke barriers and opened doors for future generations. On behalf of the entire MWU alumni community, I wish to express a heartfelt thank you to our current leaders shared below who are serving as alumni leaders. Your outstanding contributions and governance have been invaluable, and we are grateful for your commitment to advancing our institution and inspiring others to do the same.
Cassandra Anderson, Pharm.D. `14 | Ralitza Anguelova, Pharm.D. `14 | Roya Asin, D.M.D. `18 | Nisha Bhat, Pharm.D. `11 | Roaya Braqa, M.S. `19 | Andrea Brezill, M.M.S., PA-C `08 | Aleasha Bryant, Pharm.D. `14 | Alexandra Sales-Burnham, D.M.D, `17 | Jacqueline Caster, D.M.D. `15 | Nina Dallal, M.S. `18 | Elizabeth Escobedo, O.D. `17 | Marie Fleury, D.O., M.B.A., FACOI `93 | Shylah Gabriel, D.M.D. `14 | Pamela Georgeson, D.O., FAAAAI `83 | Tiffany Gordon, Pharm.D. `14 | Danielle Green, D.M.D. `19 | Jada, Green, D.P.T. `20 | Michelle Groen, Pharm.D. `96 | Kristen Hainey, M.M.S., PA-C `04 | Christine Hammer, D.M.D. `13 | Cherie Hawkins, D.O. `10 | Stephanie Hernandez, D.O. `12 | Patricia Higgins, D.O. `87 | Jennie Kwon, D.O., MSCI, FIDSA `09 | Laura Licari, Pharm.D. `06 | Madeline Lewis, D.O. `86 | Asfia Mohammed, M.O.T. `12 | Alondra Davis Otto, M.P.T. `99 | Marquie Price, O.T.D. `20 | Chara Reid-Reed, Pharm.D. `04 | Raman Saini, Psy.D. `15 | Julieanne Sees, D.O., M.B.A., FAOAO, FAOA, FAAOS `07 | Sarah Slater, Pharm.D., BCPS, BCOP `12 | Sophia Stocks, D.P.M. `17 | Alison Sutton, Pharm.D. `12 | Constance Tucker, D.O. `00 | Maia Uli, D.O. `13 | Shirley Yang, Psy.D. `17 | Sara Youssef, Pharm.D. `06
Midwestern University has many capable and skilled women leaders at all levels. Starting with Dr. Kathleen H. Goeppinger, the University’s first female President and Chief Executive Officer, women are in key roles in every facet of University operations and leadership.
Five Midwestern Colleges are led by female deans. We invite you to get to know them!
Sheri Brownstein, D.M.D., M.Ed., Dean, College of Dental Medicine–Arizona
A second-generation dentist, Dr. Brownstein grew up in Vero Beach, Florida. She completed a Bachelor of Sciences in Biology from the University of South Florida in 1996, and a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry from the University of Florida in 2000. Dr. Brownstein practiced general dentistry until 2009, when she began her academic career at the University of California at Los Angeles School of Dentistry. In 2011, she accepted a position as Assistant Professor at Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine. She was promoted to Director of Preclinical Faculty (2015), Associate Professor (2015), Associate Dean for Academic Affairs (2021), Professor (2022), and Dean (2022).
Dr. Brownstein is a member of the American Dental Association, Arizona Dental Association, American and International Associations of Dental Research, American Dental Education Association, American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, Sigma Xi Scientific Research Honor Society, and Omicron Kappa Upsilon National Dental Honor Society. She is a 2016 Costin Leadership Institute graduate, a 2021 ADEA Leadership Institute graduate, and a Fellow of the International College of Dentists. In December of 2019, she earned a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University. Her research interests are in dental materials, dental education, and preventive dentistry. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, hiking, reading, and spending time with her husband, their three children and two dogs.
Carla L. Gartrell, DVM, JD, Dipl. ACVIM, Dean, College of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Carla Gartrell joined Midwestern University in 2014. After serving as Associate Dean for the College of Veterinary Medicine for several years, she was appointed as Dean of the College in 2022. She completed her Bachelor of Science degree and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at Tuskegee University. She completed a small animal residency at Michigan State University and held her first teaching job there as an Assistant Professor. Prior to her move to Midwestern University, Dr. Gartrell was a private practice internist and a practice owner in Raleigh, North Carolina. She also spent some time in the animal health industry working for a pet nutrition company. She is a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) and has also earned a law degree (JD). As an attorney, Dr. Gartrell has also made significant contributions to the field of veterinary medicine by working to improve the legal and ethical standards of animal care. She has served as an expert witness in legal cases involving animal welfare and has advised veterinary practices and organizations on legal issues related to veterinary medicine. Dr. Gartrell’s work over the years has helped to advance the understanding of complex internal medicine conditions in animals, as well as improve the legal and ethical standards of animal care.
Alicia Feis, O.D., FAAO, Dean, Arizona College of Optometry
Dr. Alicia Feis joined Midwestern University in 2011 and was appointed Dean of the College in 2019 after holding several successful administrative positions within the Arizona College of Optometry. She obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Bio-Psychology at the University of California Santa Barbara and her Doctor of Optometry degree at the Southern California College of Optometry. During her postdoctoral residency, Dr. Feis focused on pediatrics and binocular vision at the Illinois College of Optometry. She was in private practice in Fort Collins, Colorado before changing her career path to academia. Prior to her current position, Dean Feis served as the Assistant Director, Clinical Rotations, Assistant Dean and Associate Dean of Academic Affairs at the Arizona College of Optometry. In addition to her administrative role, she serves as a Clinical Associate Professor, providing patient care and supervising College students at the Midwestern University Eye Institute in the pediatrics clinic. Dr. Feis is a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry. She serves as a Clinical Director for the Special Olympics Opening Eyes program and was the recipient of the 2017 Arizona Optometric Association Young Optometrist of the Year Award.
Lori A. Kemper, D.O., Dean, Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine
Dr. Lori Kemper is a 1981 graduate of the A. T. Still University, Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Kemper is Board-certified in Family Practice, as well as Administrative Medicine. She is also a Fellow of the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians.
Working for Midwestern University since 2002, Dr. Kemper served as Assistant Dean and Clinical Assistant Professor until 2006, Associate Dean from 2006 to 2007 and Dean from 2007 to the present. She is Clinical Associate Professor Family Medicine. She has also cared for patients in the Midwestern University Multispecialty Clinic one day per week as a Family Physician since 2008, serving as the clinic’s Interim Medical Director from 2008 through 2015.
Currently the Secretary Treasurer of the Board, Dr. Kemper has been a member of the Board of Directors of the National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners since 2012, and is the current Vice Chair of the Board. She is past Chair of the Board of Deans of the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine. She is also a Commissioner for the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation and Chair of the COCA Data Committee. She is a delegate each year to the AOA House of Delegates, representing Arizona.
Dr. Kemper is a Past President of the Arizona Osteopathic Medical Association (AOMA) and is Chair of its Professional Education Committee. She has also served as the Program Director for AOMA’s Fall Seminar and Spring Convention for the past 20 years. Dr. Kemper was the Program Director for the October 2010 AOA OMED Convention. She served as the Program Committee Co-Chair for the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians in the fall of 2018. Dr. Kemper previously served as the Director of Medical Education and the Family Medicine Residency Program Director, as well as Chief of Staff at Tempe St. Luke’s Hospital in Tempe, AZ.
Melissa A. Suckow, O.D., FAAO, Dean, Chicago College of Optometry
Dr. Suckow joined Midwestern University in August 2015. Originally from southern Illinois, Dr. Suckow received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign, with special recognition for her research efforts in biology. She earned her Doctor of Optometry degree from the New England College of Optometry (NECO). Dr. Suckow also completed a post-doctoral residency in pediatrics and binocular vision at NECO.
Dr. Suckow remained at NECO as a full-time Assistant Professor, serving as the Clinical Director of the Seamark Vision Clinic at the Cotting School for multi-handicapped children in Lexington, Massachusetts. After relocating back to Illinois, Dr. Suckow worked for several years as an optometrist for the Chicago public schools’ Healthy Kids, Healthy Minds program. In 2011, she joined the clinical faculty of the Illinois College of Optometry precepting third- and fourth- year students at the Illinois Eye Institute at Princeton School. During her time at Midwestern, Dr. Suckow served as the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs before her appointment as Dean in December of 2017. Dr. Suckow’ s area of practice and research interest is pediatric optometry, public health and vision rehabilitation. Dr. Suckow is a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry, a member of the American Optometric Association, and a member of the Optometry Academy of the National Academies of Practice. Dr. Suckow sits on the board of the Illinois Society for the Prevention of Blindness as well as the board of directors of the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry. She is a clinical director for the Special Olympics Opening Eyes program, which provides comprehensive eye care for Special Olympics team members.
During her time as Dean of the Chicago College of Optometry, Dr. Suckow has successfully led the College through the accreditation process, receiving full accreditation from the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education in December 2020. She has aided in the start of community clinics including the Will County Community Health Center Eye Clinic well as the ALEX program, a collaboration with EasterSeals of Central Illinois to provide interprofessional care for individuals with Cortical Visual Impairment.
Currently, Dr. Suckow is pursuing a master’s in educational leadership from the Harvard School of Graduate Education.
In addition to our deans and program directors, Midwestern is fortunate to have several strong female leaders serving in key University administration roles:
Dr. Goeppinger became the first female President and CEO of Midwestern University in 1995, after serving for 10 years on the Board of Trustees and as Chair of the Board. She has received numerous awards for leadership and community outreach and has overseen almost 30 years of continued strong growth and diversification on both Midwestern campuses.
Kaila Osmotherly Dougherty, O.D., FAAO: Dr. Osmotherly serves as Vice President, Clinic Operations.
Amy Gibson, M.S., SHRM-SCP, PHR: Ms. Gibson serves as Vice President, Human Resources and Organizational Development.
Mary W.L. Lee, Pharm.D., BCPS, FCCP: Dr. Lee is Vice President and Special Assistant to the President, and oversees the University’s Centralized office of Experiential Education, as well as special projects on both campuses.
Angela L. Marty, M.A., PHR: Ms. Marty is Senior Vice President, Administration and Communications, and oversees Communications, Special Events, Development and Alumni Relations, Library, Media Resources, Risk Management, and Occupational Safety and Health.
Barbara L. McCloud, Esq.: Ms. McCloud serves as Vice President and General Counsel, leading the department of Risk Management and providing compliance oversight, services, and counsel to the University and its community clinics.
Yir Gloria Yueh, Ph.D.: Dr. Yueh serves as Vice President, Chief Academic Officer for Medicine, Graduate Studies, and Podiatric Medicine.
Midwestern University provides students with many opportunities to get involved with clubs and special interest groups. Both the Glendale and Downers Grove Campuses offer a variety of options to those looking to explore their interests in women’s healthcare. While there are many different women’s clubs available to join, below are a few from each of the campuses.
GLENDALE CAMPUS STUDENT Women's CLUBS
P.O.W.E.R. – Pharmacists Offering Women’s Education and Resources
P.O.W.E.R’s mission is to promote and advocate for women’s healthcare by improving student pharmacists’ clinical skills, raising awareness about women’s health issues, and providing philanthropic support to other organizations dedicated to helping women. The club’s recent events included a ‘wear pink day’ for breast cancer awareness, as well as collaborating with another group to host an educational panel on Planned Parenthood and their mission for women.
Obstetrics and Gynecology Club
The OB/GYN Club facilitates the development of knowledge pertaining to the obstetrics and gynecology field for those interested in the specialty or in preparation for future rotations. This club hosts several events throughout the year to promote education and interest in the field including OB/GYN speakers, birthing and surgery workshops, OB/GYN advice events, and fundraisers. Their goal is to share in the learning of women's health issues related to wellness and health maintenance as well as disease prevention. The club has hosted many events this year, including an IUD workshop, speaker events on breastfeeding and lactation, and preparing to be an OB/GYN.
(MOWPA) - Midwestern Osteopathic Women Physicians’ Association
Midwestern Osteopathic Women Physicians’ Association (MOWPA) was established to enrich the education of women and individuals pursuing a career in medicine. The organization strives to foster an open, collaborative, and supportive environment that allows women in medicine to acknowledge and discuss challenges that are unique to women in healthcare. MOWPA aims to promote a culture of equity for women in medicine through leadership, mentorship, and networking. MOWPA participated this year in holiday community outreach events, as well as hosted a Female Physician Panel where women doctors shared their unique experiences.
Medical Students for Choice
The Medical Students for Choice Club believes that as educated leaders, it is their job to lead change and ensure that patients have autonomy and access to safe medicine. They believe everyone has a choice about their own bodies, and they strive to train future physicians how to properly inform their patients of the resources they have. Some of the club’s most recent events included a fundraiser to assist patients looking for assistance with abortion services, as well as a Plan C Lunch Talk where members learned how to advise patients about at-home medical abortions.
The American Association of Women Dentists at Midwestern University is committed to offering opportunities for personal growth through collaboration with women in the dental profession. The chapter also supports the national organization's goal, which is to enrich and nurture the diverse lives of women dentists by providing an encouraging and supportive forum for women dentists and dental students. They've recently hosted many events, including a Women in Dentistry Panel, a Young Alumni Panel, and their annual Build a Blanket Fundraiser.
College of Health Sciences Women’s Health Organization Club
The CHS Women’s Health Organization Club is designed to promote awareness and understanding of women’s health within the University community, and to educate the female population on the role of Physician Assistants, Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, Pharmacists, and research scientists in the healthcare fields. This club regularly sponsors speakers and activities that provides opportunities for members to meet and connect with the female population.
American Medical Women’s Association
The Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine American Medical Women’s Association strives to uphold the mission of advancing all women in medicine, advocating for equity, and ensuring excellence in healthcare. The club started the year with a pumpkin painting event to welcome new members, and in early February, they collaborated with Loyola, Rush, and Rosalind Franklin AMWA chapters to host a mixer with local women physicians to learn how to balance the complexities of being a woman in medicine.
Midwestern University Creates New Women in Medicine and Science (WIMS) Mentorship Program
Traditionally, jobs within STEM and healthcare related fields have been predominantly occupied by men. It wasn’t until 2019 that the percentage of female medical students crested over 50% to make them the majority for the first time. While this positive increase is a step in the right direction, women are still vastly under-represented in many healthcare and science fields and undergraduate students are left wondering what the next steps are, such as how to choose a particular healthcare career, how to balance school and life responsibilities, and how to optimize their graduate school application. To help more women navigate their way to a fulfilling career, Midwestern University, in partnership with Arizona State University, Grand Canyon University, Estrella Mountain Community College, and Maricopa County Community Colleges, has developed the Women in Medicine and Science (WIMS) Mentorship Program.
In total, 178 Midwestern University students have volunteered to be mentors for the 2022-2023 school year, and more than 153 undergraduate students signed up across the various colleges and universities to receive one-on-one mentorship. A kick-off reception event was held on November 2 to introduce the mentors to their mentees, during which participants heard from a panel of MWU faculty, including Lori Kemper, D.O., Dean, Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine; Carla Gartrell, D.V.M., J.D., Dean, College of Veterinary Medicine; Elizabeth Hull, Ph.D., Program Director, Biomedical Sciences, College of Graduate Studies; and Monica Ravula, Assistant Professor, College of Dental Medicine – Arizona. The faculty spoke about their experiences as women in medicine and science, and answered questions from the undergraduate students such as how they chose their particular career, what struggles they face, and how to get involved in research opportunities.
Over the course of the school year, the MWU mentors will connect with their undergraduate mentees monthly, online or in-person, to discuss many different topics including the admissions process, how to choose a specific field, shadowing opportunities, tips on professionalism and interviewing, and graduate admissions test taking. An on-campus event in March will bring them all together again in person to participate in several hands-on lab activities with MWU faculty and students to explore the University’s 28 programs and help identify what career path is right for each of them
The goal of this program is not just to provide these students with the resources they need to be successful when applying to a health professions graduate school, but to help them develop the confidence, clarity, and skills to succeed in whatever career path they choose.
Glendale, Arizona Campus News
Precision Medicine Program Offers New Stand-Alone Post-Graduate Certificate
Midwestern University’s College of Graduate Studies is now offering a stand-alone Post-Graduate Certificate Program in Precision Medicine for currently-practicing clinicians and professionals in the biological sciences. The Precision Medicine Program was originally established as a dual-degree/dual-track program for students in all healthcare professions, offering either a Master of Science in Precision Medicine or a Post-Graduate Certificate in Precision Medicine. The new stand-alone option opens the field of study to practicing clinicians with graduate-level healthcare degrees or working professionals with graduate-level biological or biomedical sciences degrees, enabling them to augment their skills and knowledge to include current and practical knowledge of fundamental areas of genetics, genomics, biomarkers, and bioinformatics. Like the dual-degree/dual-track program, the stand-alone Post-Graduate Certificate Program is available in a flexible online format, which is well-suited to the busy schedules of working professionals. Alumni from Midwestern’s healthcare professional programs are especially invited to apply.
Inaugural Graduate Nursing Program Classes Celebrate Commencement
The inaugural classes of Midwestern University’s Graduate Nursing Program graduates will celebrate their commencement at ceremonies during the first week of June.
Two graduates receiving the Master of Science in Nursing (Nurse Leadership in Global Health) degree and four graduates receiving the Doctor of Nursing Practice degree will receive their diplomas during the College of Health Sciences’ commencement event held at the University’s Auditorium.
The Graduate Nursing Program was approved in November 2020 and offers four degree and certificate programs. The Master of Science in Nursing and Post-Graduate Certificate in Adult Gerontology – Primary Care Nurse Practitioner
Downers Grove, Illinois Campus News
Midwestern University Partners with Aurora University
In a broad collaboration, Midwestern University and Aurora University (AU) have partnered to provide AU students a path to an advanced degree for any of Midwestern University’s 11 healthcare professional programs in Illinois and Arizona. The agreement marks the first time both universities have affiliated across such a wide swath of programs. The two universities reached an articulation agreement that offers qualified AU undergraduate students a guaranteed interview at Midwestern University when they apply to enter graduate programs for clinical psychology, dental medicine, occupational therapy, optometry, osteopathic medicine, pharmacy, physical therapy, physician assistant studies, podiatry, speech-language pathology, or veterinary medicine. Students have the option of enrolling at Midwestern University’s campuses in Downers Grove, Illinois, or in Glendale, Arizona, depending on the program. The agreement takes effect with the AU class enrolling in fall 2023. To qualify, students must meet both general and program-specific requirements, including minimum GPA and Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) scores. The requirements vary according to the medical program for which students apply.
Midwestern University Helps Chinatown Community with Health Awareness
On Midwestern University’s Downers Grove Campus, the Asian Health Association (comprised of students from the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine, College of Dental Medicine – Illinois, and Chicago College of Pharmacy programs) have partnered with the Midwest Asian Health Association to empower members of the Chicago Chinatown community with knowledge about their health. Every month, students from the Asian Health Association host an event to provide low-cost labs, osteoporosis and blood pressure screenings, and general health education for Chicago Chinatown residents. Additionally, dental medicine students distribute dental hygiene supplies such as floss, mouthwash, toothbrushes, and informational pamphlets about dental care.
Mini-Med School Informs Students from Under-Represented Communities About Health Science Careers
Students at Midwestern University’s Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine (CCOM) presented a unique learning opportunity designed to introduce nearly 100 high school and college students from under-represented communities to the many aspects of health science careers through lectures, interactive demonstrations, and scientific exploration. The CCOM students along with students from other academic programs at Midwestern University presented a free, hands-on Mini-Medical School on five consecutive Saturdays in October and November. The participants learned about a variety of healthcare specialties and received an introduction to musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, respiratory, and neurological systems as well as tips for applying to graduate-level healthcare programs. “I plan to go to medical school and this experience opened my eyes to other healthcare specialties. I always thought I wanted to go into orthopedics, but because of this experience, I’m considering other fields. This program also showed me what to expect as a medical school student,” said Ahmad Porter, a junior at Jackson State University.
Mark Your CALENDARS: Upcoming Alumni Events
To check out upcoming alumni events, go to: https://www.midwestern.edu/alumni/alumni-events
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