Points of Pride 2025
Stories of Note:
UToledo Launches Northwest Ohio Cancer Research Institute
The University of Toledo is launching the Northwest Ohio Cancer Research Institute, bringing together an expert roster of researchers to advance treatment of one of the most pressing public health challenges in Ohio and across the United States.
“Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. The Northwest Ohio Cancer Research Institute aims to unite the strengths of UToledo and our partners to advance scientific discovery, improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of cancer in and beyond northwest Ohio,” said Dr. Jian-Ting Zhang, a professor in UToledo’s College of Medicine and Life Sciences and inaugural director of the Northwest Ohio Cancer Research Institute.
UToledo recognized among the nation’s leading research institutions with R1 Classification
UToledo earned the prestigious R1 Classification for very high research activity in the latest Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education announced in February 2025.
Universities that achieve this highest research designation average at least $50 million in total annual research spending and award at least 70 research doctorates annually.
Interprofessional Immersive Simulation Center Earns Prestigious Research Accreditation
The University of Toledo’s Lloyd A. Jacobs Interprofessional Immersive Simulation Center has achieved full accreditation in research from the Society for Simulation in Healthcare, a historic milestone that places UToledo among a select group of global leaders in medical simulation.
Already one of just 96 centers worldwide accredited by the American College of Surgeons as a level one comprehensive simulation center, UToledo is now the first academic institution in Ohio — and one of fewer than a dozen centers worldwide — to hold both accreditations.
“This accreditation represents the culmination of a very challenging and thorough process, and it would not have been possible without the dedication of so many individuals who played a key role in ensuring its success,” said Dr. Kris Brickman, senior associate dean for simulation and innovation. “To be the first academic institution in the state to achieve this designation is both a privilege and a testament to our ongoing commitment to advance simulation, foster innovation, and produce scholarly work that will guide and inspire others in the field.”
Dr. Ali appointed permanent dean
In March, The University of Toledo named Dr. Imran Ali as permanent dean for the College of Medicine and Life Sciences. He assumed interim leadership of the college in July 2024.
Dr. Ali is a board-certified neurologist who specializes in epilepsy. He joined the faculty of the then Medical College of Ohio in 1996. Dr. Ali has served as a leader in medical education at a national level and is currently the vice chair of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He earned his medical degree from Aga Khan University in Pakistan and completed residency and an epilepsy/clinical neurophysiology fellowship at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. He recently completed the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) Council of Deans fellowship in 2022.
Scholarship event celebrates $3.8 million in student support and donor generosity
The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences recently held its Scholarship and Donor Recognition Ceremony, honoring the generosity of donors and the remarkable achievements of students whose education is made possible through scholarship support.
This year, the College awarded $3.8 million in scholarship support to 212 students across 238 scholarships — a nearly 75% increase in the total amount awarded compared to the previous academic year.
“We are continuing to see a significant increase in scholarships thanks to the efforts of our University of Toledo Foundation partners and, most importantly, our generous donors without whom this would not be possible,” Dr. Imran Ali said at the event. “Without you, tonight would not be possible and the future of these students is better and brighter because of your kindness.”
To support student scholarships at The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences and change lives, contact David Theby at 419.530.2646 or david.theby@utoledo.edu.
Federal grant supports new study of link between pesticide and autism
Dr. James Burkett, assistant professor in the Department of Neurosciences and Psychiatry, received nearly $3 million from the National Institutes of Health to continue his investigation of the potential link between a commonly used pesticide and autism spectrum disorder.
“I think we’re very close to being able to say that this pesticide is a real danger at the levels to which people are currently exposed,” he said. “The critical part of this study is determining what a safe dose of this pesticide is, or if there even is a safe dose.”
Researcher receives $2.8 million grant to study breast cancer
Dr. Jianmin Zhang, professor in the Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, is leading a new project funded by a $2.8 million award from the National Cancer Institute that focuses on the unique role a signaling protein called TAZ plays in the triple-negative breast cancer tumor microenvironment.
With the new grant funding, he and his colleagues will work to more deeply study how TAZ expression impacts the tumor microenvironment, with a particular focus on how it inhibits the immune response.
UToledo researchers earn federal grant to study deadly lung condition
College of Medicine and Life Sciences scientists are launching a new study of acute lung injury that will, in part, investigate repurposing a common asthma medication as a new way to treat the serious and often deadly condition brought on by excessive inflammation. The project, led by Dr. Sailaja Paruchuri, is being funded by a four-year, $2.32 million grant from the National Institutes of Health.
“If you have a bacterial infection in your lungs, your doctor might prescribe you antibiotics to clear away the bacteria. Often, that’s the end of it,” Dr. Paruchuri, professor in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, told UToledo News. “In acute lung injury, however, the real damage is being done by an overactive immune system. The bacteria may be gone, but that runaway immune response can quickly cause organ damage and ultimately a failure to breathe.” Read more in UToledo News.
From left, Dr. Sailaja Paruchuri and lab members: Dr. Lakshminarayan Reddy Teegala and doctoral students Emma Elizabeth Sabu-Kattuman and Somayeh Darzi.
Medical student elected chair of AMA council
Fourth-year medical student Kaylee Scarnati was elected Chair of the American Medical Association (AMA) Medical Student Section Governing Council. The AMA Medical Student Section strives to be medical students’ voice within the AMA for improving medical education and advocating for the future of medicine.
Resident builds for her future at UToledo
Dr. Alexandra-Elise Dakaud Patterson, a general surgery resident who also is completing a master’s in cosmetic science and formulation design, spent the summer with the ABC News medical unit.
“I really appreciate this residency program for the opportunities I’ve had and the encouragement I’ve received to take advantage of them,” she told UToledo News. “I think people should know we have something special here. They say, ‘You’ll do better in Toledo.’ They were right.”
Staff member receives inaugural national AHEC Champion Award
Courtney K. Combs, director of UToledo/Ohio AHEC Programs, who has been selected as the recipient of the National AHEC Organization’s (NAO) inaugural Michael French AHEC Champion Award. This prestigious award honors individuals, projects or organizations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to advocacy and serve as champions for the AHEC mission at the local, state and national levels. Courtney was recognized at the NAO Conference in June.
"COMLS has invested heavily in the AHEC program and I'm so happy that our fantastic program is being recognized," Courtney shared with us.
Faculty member honored by Lucas County Mental Health and Recovery Services Board
Dr. Tanvir Singh, professor in the Department of Neurosciences and Psychiatry, was named the Professional of the Year, based on his work in addiction psychiatry by the Mental Health and Recovery Services Board of Lucas County. The award honors outstanding professional service in the areas of addiction, prevention, treatment and recovery.
"It is nice to have the recognition from the award, but mostly I'm proud of what we’ve been able to build at UTMC," Dr. Singh shared with UToledo News.
Neuroscience undergraduates enjoy perfect early medical school acceptance rate
UToledo’s new undergraduate neuroscience program is successfully preparing students for careers in medicine, as evidenced by the perfect success rate of the program’s first students eligible for early admission to our College of Medicine and Life Sciences. The program is a unique collaboration between the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics and the College of Medicine and Life Sciences. Read more in UToledo News.
Satellites Auxiliary Volunteers celebrates 50th anniversary
Archive photo of Satellites members Jackie Concepcion and Jackie Mulrow viewing a heart-lung machine purchased for the hospital with funds from the organization.
Satellites Auxiliary Volunteer organization is marking its golden anniversary. Founded in 1975 at the then-Medical College of Ohio, the Satellites have spent 50 years supporting The University of Toledo through scholarships, service, education and community outreach.
Over the decades, the Satellites have donated nearly $4 million and countless volunteer hours, funding scholarships, hospital equipment and programs that directly impact students, patients and families. Their unwavering commitment has made them some of the University’s closest allies, steadfast in their mission to improve lives and strengthen our community.
Scholarly Pathways of Excellence program announced for first-year medical students
This fall, we launched our new Scholarly Pathways of Excellence program, which is designed to provide M.D. students with opportunities for individualized academic enrichment and dedicated mentorship in areas aligned with their passions and career aspirations. These pathways support in-depth exploration over a four-year, longitudinal experience, helping students distinguish themselves in residency applications and in their future medical careers. By fostering intellectual curiosity, the pathways empower students to make meaningful contributions to the field of medicine both during their training and beyond. Learn more and explore pathways.
Commencement video receives AAMC award
Our celebratory video for the Class of 2024 has been chosen to receive an Honorable Mention Award for Excellence in the Electronic Communications – Audio and Video category for the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) Group on Institutional Advancement (GIA) Awards for Excellence competition. Comments by the judges include: "Nicely produced and thoughtful graphics to make sure all students were included. The side-by-sides were very strong. You gave this class a time capsule. Congrats."
50 years of Mulford Library
Fifty years ago, the Mulford Library Building was dedicated, the second building constructed on what was then the Medical College of Ohio campus.
Designed by Don A. Hisaka and Associates, the pre-construction cost was estimated to be $6 million. The construction was lauded in the August 1975 issue of Architectural Record (page 83), as coming in under budget: $5.2 million.
The structure was designed as a library, administration and student-faculty building: “three diverse elements that the architects combined into a single composite structure that also serves as a gateway to this new campus.” The article described the uppermost level of the library, “with its ninety-foot clear spans” as the “spatial climax of the building and contains the library’s main reading area and stacks.” A description of the Mulford Library Annex’s “scale and placement fleetingly (and irreverently) suggesting an infant building in the protective custody of its mother.” You may never see the annex in the same way again.
UToledo Highlights
University of Toledo Board of Trustees selects Dr. James Holloway as 19th President
The University of Toledo Board of Trustees named Dr. James Holloway as the University’s 19th president following an extensive national search.
Dr. Holloway, who was serving as provost and executive vice president for academic affairs at the University of New Mexico, assumed the role on July 15, succeeding Interim President Matt Schroeder. Read more. The inauguration was held Oct. 16.
UToledo among Top 100 U.S. universities granted patents in 2024
UToledo is credited with 14 utility patents in 2024, representing a range of innovations in science, engineering and medicine. Read more.
UToledo among 2025 Best Global Universities
The University of Toledo is again ranked among the top research universities in the world by U.S. News & World Report. UToledo is ranked in the top half of more than 2,250 schools evaluated by U.S. News in its 2025 Best Global Universities list, which considered global and regional research reputation and academic research performance. Read more.
U.S. News & World Report ranks UToledo graduate programs among nation’s best
U.S. News & World Report recently released its list of 2025 Best Graduate Schools on with UToledo ranking in 18 subject areas. Programs that rose in their respective ranks this year include medical primary care and physician assistant. Medical research is also ranked. These rankings highlight the continued excellence and upward momentum of our academic programs. Read more.
Faculty Accolades:
Faculty contribute to AHA Science Advisory on Hypertension and the Gut Microbiome
University of Toledo researchers Dr. Tao Yang, assistant professor in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, and Dr. Bina Joe, Distinguished University Professor and chair in the department, played key roles in developing the American Heart Association’s first official science advisory on Hypertension and the Gut Microbiome.
Dr. Yang served as vice chair and Dr. Joe as a member of the international writing group that authored the advisory, which was published in the journal Hypertension.
A science advisory from the American Heart Association (AHA) is an official document that summarizes and interprets current scientific evidence on a specific cardiovascular or related health topic. Unlike original research articles, these advisories are consensus statements or guidance based on the evaluation of existing research.
This advisory marks the first time a leading cardiovascular organization has formally acknowledged and synthesized the growing body of evidence linking the gut microbiome to blood pressure regulation. The writing group, composed of global scientists, represented the AHA Council on Hypertension, Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing, Council on Clinical Cardiology, and Council on Lifestyle and Cardioetabolic Health.
Read more:
- AHA Science News: Hypertension and the Gut Microbiome
- Top Things to Know
- Full advisory in Hypertension
Leader receives prestigious appointment at one of the world’s largest general scientific societies
Dr. JT Zhang, Senior Associate Dean for Research and chair in the Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, was elected as the Chair of Nominations and Leadership Development for the Pharmaceutical Science Section of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) for the 2025–2027 term.
The AAAS, founded in 1848, is the world’s largest multidisciplinary scientific society and a leading publisher of cutting-edge research through its Science family of journals. The organization is dedicated to advancing science, engineering, and innovation throughout the world for the benefit of all people.
Faculty member inducted as Fellow of the American College of Surgeons
Dr. Justin Hsu, assistant professor in the Department of Surgery, was inducted as a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS) during the Fellowship Induction Ceremony held in October in Chicago.
The ceremony welcomed 2,122 initiates — 1,293 from the United States and 829 from other countries — into fellowship status. This prestigious designation recognizes surgeons whose education, training, professional qualifications, surgical competence and ethical conduct have been rigorously evaluated and found to be consistent with the high standards of the American College of Surgeons.
Faculty member publishes book on living with chronic illness
Dr. Angele McGrady, clinical professor and community-based faculty member in the Department of Neurosciences and Psychiatry, co-authored a new book with Dr. Donald Moss, dean of the Graduate College of Integrative Medicine and Health Sciences at Saybrook University in California.
“Pathways through Long-Term Health Conditions: Lifestyle Medicine to Maximise Your Wellbeing” (Pavilion Publishing and Media Ltd., 2025) is a guide for persons living with a chronic illness such as anxiety, depression, trauma, Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, irritable bowel disorder and cancer. The book offers structured, person- centered pathways to focus on wellbeing and improved quality of life, when a cure is not possible, using case-based examples that highlight self-care, community resources and professional interventions.
This is Dr. McGrady’s first publication for the general public. She has previously co- authored two research-focused books for professionals, including “Navigating Chronic Illness with a Mind-Body-Spirit Approach” (Springer, 2018). She has published over 100 scientific articles and book chapters. At UToledo, she co-teaches the Lifestyle Medicine elective for M1 and M2 students and co-facilitates programs in the departments of Psychiatry and Family Medicine designed to build resiliency and prevent burnout in medical residents.
This summer, she was interviewed with Dr. Moss about the book on the “Healthy Brain, Happy Body” podcast by Dr. Saul Rosenthal for the Northeast Region Biofeedback Society. Listen to the episodes, “The Pathways Model of Health”: Part One and Part Two.
Faculty member contributes to critical care training initiative in Palestine
Dr. Fadi Safi, associate professor in the Department of Medicine, served as an instructor in a national critical care workshop in the West Bank, Palestinian Authority.
The training is part of the Strengthening Critical Care Services in Palestine Project, a collaboration with the Society of Critical Care Medicine (SCCM) and the Palestinian American Medical Association (PAMA), for which Dr. Safi is a board member. The workshop included both a Training-of-Trainers (ToT) component and direct instruction for physicians and nurses from hospitals across Palestine. A total of 600 physicians and nurses will be trained, laying the foundation for a sustainable and standardized national ICU training system. The Fundamental Critical Care Support (FCCS) course provides healthcare professionals, including non-intensivists, with the training to manage critically ill patients for the first 24 hours or until appropriate critical care consultation can be arranged.
Learner Accolades:
Student receives national presentation award
First-year medical student Bryce Whitehead was honored this fall with the 2025 John Pless Best Student Presentation Award at the 59th Annual Meeting of the National Association of Medical Examiners (NAME) in Louisville, Kentucky. Bryce presented his work, “Fiberoptic Technology at Autopsy,” after his abstract was selected for a competitive platform presentation. To qualify for this national award, he also submitted a full manuscript, an exceptional accomplishment for an M1.
Dr. Kanayo Tatsumi, Chief Medical Examiner for the City of St. Louis, shared the news with our college, noting that Bryce’s achievement is “simply exceptional” and a reflection of his hard work and dedication.
“I had the pleasure of working with Bryce when he spent time with us at the Medical Examiner’s Office,” Dr. Tatsumi shared. “I am sure you are as proud of him as we are here in St Louis.”
Graduate student takes first place in UToledo’s Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition
Rejina Shrestha, a graduate student in the Cell and Cancer Biology Track of our Biomedical Science Program, earned first place at The University of Toledo’s 8th annual Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition. Rejina was one of five COMLS participants among nine total finalists.
Her winning presentation, “A Combination Strategy: Exploiting Copper Overload by Inhibiting HSF1 to Target Pancreatic Cancer,” showcased her innovative research in Dr. Kuo-Hui Su’s laboratory. With this achievement, Rejina will go on to represent UToledo at the 2026 Midwest Association of Graduate Schools 3MT Competition in Kansas City, Missouri.
And congratulations to the other COMLS finalists: Oluwatosin Akinola (Molecular Medicine, Advisor: Dr. Bina Joe); Azeezat Osikoya (Cell & Cancer Biology, Advisor: Dr. Dayanidhi Raman); Augustine Kwabil (Cell & Cancer Biology, Advisor: Dr. Xiaohong Li); and Prisca C. Njoku (Cell & Cancer Biology, Advisor: Dr. Xiaohong Li).
Student awarded national scholarship
Third-year medical student Snehi Shah was awarded the AbbVie Immunology Scholarship, a $20,000 renewable scholarship to support education-related costs and tuition.
The AbbVie Immunology Scholarship recognizes 45 exceptional students each year who demonstrate resilience, academic excellence and community involvement while living with an immune-mediated disease. The program helps reduce the financial burden for students impacted by inflammatory diseases while empowering them to pursue a degree and a life not defined by their condition.
Student awarded $25,000 Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of Ohio Scholarship
Fourth-year medical student Emma Wolinsky was awarded the Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of Ohio Scholarship, a $25,000 scholarship to support education and residency-related costs.
The Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of Ohio Scholarship is awarded to a fourth-year medical student who has excelled in the third-year clinical psychiatry clerkship, has contributed to psychiatric research in a significant manner throughout their medical education and has denoted the field of psychiatry as their chosen specialty.
Students lead effort to pass statewide policy on PFAS public health protections
Major kudos to medical students Bella Khatib-Shahidi, Leah Knox, Brianna Bailey and Paaras Kumar, who successfully led the effort to draft and pass Ohio State Medical Association (OSMA) Resolution 16-2025: Advancing Public Health Protections Against Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS).
Adopted during this year’s OSMA annual meeting, this new policy supports continued research on the health impacts of PFAS, while also promoting physician and public education on the risks of exposure and opportunities for prevention and mitigation.
This achievement builds on prior success by Bella, Brianna, and Leah – alongside classmates Margo Bush and Shalmali Bhadkamkar – who helped author and pass Resolution 35-2024 focused on increasing awareness of the human health effects of harmful algal blooms (HABs).
“Together, these efforts reflect the exceptional public health leadership emerging from our medical students, particularly in the area of environmental health hazards,” Dr. David Kennedy, professor in the Department of Medicine, shares with us. “Their advocacy has now shaped state-level physician policy and is directly aligned with the mission and impact of our college.”
Students recognized with graduate awards
College of Medicine and Life Sciences graduate students who were honored with 2025 Graduate Student Association (GSA) Research Awards earlier this year. Out of six total recipients across the University, three were from COMLS, a wonderful reflection of the strength and dedication of our student researchers:
- Oluwatosin Akinola, Molecular Medicine Ph.D. student in Dr. Bina Joe’s lab
- Matthew R. Hathaway, Medical Microbiology and Immunology Ph.D. student in Dr. R. Travis Taylor’s lab
- Upasana Shrestha, Medical Microbiology and Immunology Ph.D. student in Drs. Haller and Kennedy’s lab
Student appointed to Ohio foundation board
Third-year medical student Donovan Roberts was appointed as a student trustee to the Ohio Academy of Family Physicians (OAFP) Foundation Board of Trustees.
In this leadership role, Donovan will represent medical students across Ohio, participating in board meetings, serving on committees and voting on policy decisions that shape the Foundation's work. His appointment follows his participation last summer in the Foundation's Leroy A. Rodgers, M.D., Summer Preceptorship Program, which pairs students with community family physicians to provide firsthand experience in the specialty.
Student earns prestigious summer fellowship
Second-year medical student Grant Nelson received a prestigious summer fellowship through the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP).
He will be with our Department of Neurosciences and Psychiatry through mid-July. Dr. Jamie Migliori is his clinical mentor and Dr. Michele Knox is his research mentor. The AACAP Summer Medical Student Fellowships offer a chance for medical students to explore a career in child and adolescent psychiatry, gain valuable work experience and meet leaders in the child and adolescent psychiatry field.
Student honored with inaugural UToledo Tower of Excellence Award
Ishan Manandhar, who graduated with a doctoral degree in biomedical science this May, was among six students honored with an inaugural Tower of Excellence Award. The University of Toledo recognized upcoming graduates who are leaving a mark on campus through their leadership, academic excellence and community service. Tower of Excellence Award nominations were solicited in January and February, with students who qualified with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 and plans to graduate in 2025 invited to then complete an application. Winners were selected by a committee of faculty and staff. Read more in UToledo News.
Student honored with National Public Health Award from United States Public Health Service
Graduating medical student Sydney Hatch was selected to receive a United States Public Health Service (USPHS) 2025 Excellence in Public Health Award. The goal of the USPHS is to promote the health and safety of our nation and recognizes medical students who have positively impacted the public health needs of their community and beyond.
"Sydney has been shown to be an exceptional person whose innovations and diligence have contributed to the well-being of this region," Dr. Donna Woodson shares with us. "She has been an innovative and dedicated medical student who honors our medical school with this award from the United States Public Health Service."
Student represents UToledo at regional 3-Minute Thesis Competition
Kesha Dalal, a Ph.D. candidate in the Molecular Medicine track from Dr. Charles Thodeti’s lab in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, proudly represented The University of Toledo at the regional 3-Minute Thesis (3MT) competition, held in Indianapolis.
Hosted by the Midwest Association of Graduate Schools (MAGS), the 3MT competition challenges graduate students to present their research in just three minutes using a single slide, making complex scientific concepts accessible to a broad audience. Kesha competed against top graduate students from universities across the Midwest, showcasing her research with clarity, creativity, and impact.
"It was an incredible experience to represent our university and communicate the significance of my work to such a diverse audience," Kesha shares with us.
Student earns national neurosurgery award
Second-year medical student Mackenzie Hagood was selected as a recipient of the American Association for Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery (ASSFN) AMPLify Award for 2025–26. This national honor is presented to support aspiring physician-scientists who are committed to advancing the field of neurosurgery through impactful research. As part of the award, Mackenzie will be mentored by Dr. Assaf Berger at the University of Buffalo. The AMPLify program — which stands for Authorship, Mentorship, Partnership and Leadership — provides funding to foster meaningful mentorship relationships in the field of stereotactic and functional neurosurgery. A key feature of the program is a three-month visiting fellowship at the mentor’s institution. This immersive experience allows awardees to engage in their planned research projects under expert guidance while gaining valuable hands-on clinical experience.
Mackenzie’s achievement was recently highlighted in the ASSFN newsletter as well as on the organization’s social media platforms, including X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook, putting a national spotlight on The University of Toledo.
Students inducted into Gold Humanism Honor Society
Third-year medical students were inducted into the Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS), which recognizes individuals who are exemplars of humanistic patient care and who can serve as role models, mentors and leaders in medicine. Inductees were nominated by their classmates and selected by current fourth-year members, along with senior leadership from the college. Also part of the ceremony was keynote speaker Dr. Coral Matus, Associate Dean for Clinical Undergraduate Medical Education. The Honor Society was founded in 2002 to promote humanistic values and behaviors. Its goal is to bring together like-minded individuals to sustain their own humanism and to inspire and nurture humanism in others.
(Featured in the March 31 newsletter)
Alpha Omega Alpha Induction Ceremony
The Alpha Omega Alpha (AΩA) Honor Medical Society Delta of Ohio Chapter held its annual Induction Ceremony. Congratulations to this year’s inductees, who included 30 fourth-year medical students, two residents and five faculty members. Induction into AΩA is based upon academic excellence, leadership, professionalism and service to the community. The professional medical organization recognizes and advocates for excellence in scholarship and the highest ideals in the profession of medicine. More than 50 Nobel Prize winners have been AΩA members. Dr. Annette Collier, associate professor in the Department of Medicine and Medical Director of Palliative Care, delivered the keynote address.
(Featured in the April 14 newsletter)
Students selected for national leadership conference
Fourth-year medical students Dilpreet Kaeley and Kiran Boyinepally were selected to participate in RISE: Developing Future Leaders in Academic Medicine & Science, a prestigious leadership development seminar hosted by the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC). Nominated by the College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Dilpreet and Kiran were chosen for this competitive program, which took place in March at the AAMC Learning Center in Washington, D.C. The seminar is designed for graduating fourth-year medical students who have demonstrated leadership potential and a commitment to positively impacting the culture and learning environment at their institutions.
Student earns national research award
Sachin Aryal, a Ph.D. trainee in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, was awarded the American Physiological Society Water and Electrolyte Homeostasis (WEH) Section Research Recognition Award. This prestigious award honors outstanding research by graduate students and postdoctoral fellows who submit a first-author abstract to the American Physiology Summit. Sachin’s abstract was selected by the WEH section for recognition, and he has also been invited to give an oral presentation at the upcoming American Physiology Summit, taking place April 24–27, 2025, in Baltimore, Maryland.
Student awarded national fellowship award
Sachin Aryal, a Ph.D. trainee in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, was awarded the American Physiological Society Early-career Advocacy Fellowship Award. This two-year program seeks to engage early-career investigators in advocacy activities and provide them with skills to become long-term advocates for scientific research. Awardees were selected by the American Physiological Society (APS) Science Policy Committee (SPC). Awardees were selected based on their communications skills, letter of intent, ideas for incorporating advocacy into future professional activities, and letters of recommendation.
Students awarded AHA Predoctoral Fellowships
Ph.D. students Sachin Aryal and Emma Elizabeth Sabu Kattuman, both in the Molecular Medicine Track in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, were awarded prestigious American Heart Association (AHA) Predoctoral Fellowships. These grants, which began Jan. 1, provide $69,548 over two years, supporting innovative cardiovascular research.
Sachin’s project, titled “A Novel Epigenetic Mechanism for Blood Pressure Regulation,” achieved an impressive percentile rank of 1.05%. Emma Elizabeth’s project, “Understanding Valvular Endothelial Cell Differentiation Signals for Tissue-Engineered Heart Valves,” ranked an impressive 0.93%.
The fellowship grants are funded through the dedication of AHA volunteers and donors, whose advocacy and fundraising efforts make such awards possible. These awards underscore AHA’s commitment to supporting research as its top organizational priority.
Resident and Fellow Awards
Recipients of the 2025 Resident and Fellow Awards were announced as part of Resident and Fellow Appreciation Week. Learn more and read nominator notes.
- Best Clinical Teaching Award: Dr. Brock Deangelo, PGY-4, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
- Excellence in Patient Care Award: Dr. Amanda Springer, PGY-2, Psychiatry
- Professionalism as a Member of the House Staff: Dr. Mitra Patel, PGY-6, Cardiology
Fellow named reviewer of the month
Dr. Zohaib Ahmed, Chief Gastroenterology Fellow, for being named the August Reviewer of the Month by the American College of Gastroenterology Case Reports Journal (ACGCRJ).
Dr. Ahmed is recognized for submitting a high volume of reviews and earning a high reviewer rating from the ACGCRJ editorial board.
Residents honored with ROSE Awards
The Department of Pediatrics is proud to recognize two of its residents who have been honored with the prestigious ROSE Award over the past six months. This award celebrates team members who demonstrate exceptional patient care, compassion, teamwork and service.
In June, Dr. Eric Pam received the ROSE Award for his outstanding contributions to patient care and teamwork. Dr. Ahmed Klobocista was similarly recognized in September. Both were nominated by community members who witnessed their exceptional dedication and empathy in action.
The ROSE Award accepts submissions from patients, visitors and fellow team members. Each nomination typically includes a personal story or example that highlights how the nominee exemplifies the core values of care and service.
Research:
UTCOMLS Scholarly Activity
See publications from our campus community from 2025.
UToledo examines link between soil, extreme weather and airborne algal toxins
Dr. Kennedy Doro, left, associate professor in the Department of Environmental Sciences, and Dr. David Kennedy, professor in the Department of Medicine, will analyze water, air and soil in and around Lake Erie to understand how changing soil conditions may influence the release and spread of airborne algal toxins.
A multidisciplinary team from The University of Toledo is launching a new investigation into how extreme weather and changing soil conditions may influence the release and spread of airborne algal toxins along the shores of Lake Erie.
The project, which is backed by a $300,000 grant from the National Science Foundation, aims to fill critical gaps in our knowledge about harmful algal blooms and potentially provide new mitigation strategies to blunt their impact. Read more in UToledo News.
Students, faculty present at major robotic surgery conference
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Second-year medical students Tarak Davuluri and Paul Gabriel were among the small number of U.S. medical students selected to participate in the 2025 Society of Robotic Surgery Annual Meeting, held this summer in Strasbourg, France.
They presented their work on how well artificial intelligence can answer patients’ questions about highly advanced surgical procedures.
“It was almost surreal when we first got there,” Tarak shares with UToledo News. “We knew it was an international conference but I don’t think either of us really appreciated just how international it was. The top minds in the field from every continent were there. It was a great experience and was really inspiring for both of us.”
Second-year medical students Tarak Davuluri, left, and Paul Gabriel, right, traveled to France with Dr. Obi Ekwenna, center, last month to present research on artificial intelligence in patient education.
UToledo research finds COVID-19 brought about a large rise in POTS cases
A UToledo study has found a five-fold increase in the number of newly identified postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) patients post COVID.
"We've suspected for several years now that there is an association between COVID and POTS. I'm seeing this in my own clinic. My waiting list is longer than it has ever been," said Dr. Blair Grubb, Distinguished University Professor in the Department of Medicine and a UToledo Health cardiologist who has treated and studied POTS for more than three decades. "Now we have the data to back that up. This study helps give validity and voice to these patients, and it gives us a treatable target."
Dr. Grubb and his colleagues examined data combed from the electronic medical records of more than 65 million U.S. patients, comparing the incidence and prevalence of POTS before and after the emergence of COVID-19.
The research was recently published in the European Heart Journal – Quality of Care and Clinical Outcomes.
New UToledo study examines threat of tiny airborne plastics
Dr. Steven Haller and Dr. David Kennedy from the Department of Medicine have published research looking at how tiny, inhaled plastic particles can cause chaos in our immune response.
More than 20 million pounds of plastic waste accumulates in the Great Lakes every year. While crusty water bottles, fraying cigarette butts and tangled knots of fishing line littering the shoreline may be the most visible evidence of that pollution, a bigger concern is the tiny plastic particles that we cannot easily see.
“As this plastic waste ages, gets battered by lake currents and is exposed to UV radiation, it starts to break down into smaller and smaller pieces,” said Dr. Kennedy. “Those nanoplastics are a really worrying environmental and human health risk.”
(Featured in the July 28 newsletter)
UToledo scientist takes innovative approach to understanding angiogenesis
Dr. Charles Thodeti, professor in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, recently received American Heart Association funding to study how mechanical forces encourage the growth of new blood vessels.
“Balance is key,” Dr. Thodeti shares with UToledo News. “Too much angiogenesis can fuel tumors or damage the retina in diseases like diabetic retinopathy. On the flip side, too little can block blood flow in heart disease or stroke. It’s a critical process but when it goes haywire, it can become dangerous.”
With a three-year, $300,000 grant from the American Heart Association, Dr. Thodeti is leading new research that takes an unconventional look at what drives angiogenesis — and how that process could potentially be manipulated to address a variety of diseases and conditions.
(Featured in the Aug. 18 newsletter)
Research highlight: Preexisting anemia may make malaria worse
A new study led by Dr. Piu Saha, assistant professor in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, shows how anemia may help malaria proliferate and offers new ideas for treating the mosquito-borne disease. The findings were published this month in the peer-reviewed journal Infection and Immunity.
“We know that malaria can cause anemia. But whether preexisting anemia can aggravate the disease, that part was unknown,” Dr. Saha told UToledo News. “Our study suggests not only that it can, but we have also identified potential new ways of fighting malaria, especially in people who are already anemic.”
(Featured in the Aug. 11 newsletter)
UToledo autism researcher hopes to revive interest in oxytocin system
Dr. Elissar Andari, assistant professor in the Department of Neurosciences and Psychiatry, has published a new paper showing how the hormone oxytocin affects brain function in individuals with autism spectrum disorder.
"We wanted to take a really clean, data-driven approach to understanding how oxytocin affects specific areas of the brain," she shares with UToledo News. "This isn't a flashy study, but it provides real evidence on what oxytocin is doing in the brain, and what dosages may be most effective."
Department of Physiology and Pharmacology showcases research at international summit
The University of Toledo was well represented at the 2025 American Physiology Summit (APS 2025), held in the spring in Baltimore. This was a record-setting year for attendance from the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, with 14 members of team UToledo consisting of faculty members, postdoctoral fellows and graduate students presenting their research and actively engaged in scientific discussions.
University of Toledo GI team makes a strong showing at Digestive Disease Week 2025
We are proud to celebrate the remarkable success of The University of Toledo team at the Digestive Disease Week (DDW) 2025 in San Diego, the largest and most prestigious international conference in the field of gastroenterology. The team was led by Dr. Yaseen Alastal, GI Fellowship Program Director, and Dr. Sami Ghazaleh, Chief GI Fellow. Multiple research projects, developed under the mentorship of our esteemed GI faculty, were presented and received enthusiastic feedback from peers and experts alike. Internal medicine residents Dr. Bisher Sawaf, Dr. Maram Albandak, Dr. Sana Rabeeah and Dr. Yusuf Hallak played a key role, in collaboration with other universities, co-authoring and presenting a total of 11 abstracts, including two oral presentations and nine poster presentations. (Featured in the June 9 newsletter)
UToledo research team shares breast cancer findings at international symposium in Poland
Dr. Kam Yeung, associate professor in the Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, recently presented research at the 2nd Joint International Symposium of RKIP and YY1, held in Krakow, Poland. His presentation was titled: "Examining PyMT breast cancer mice as a pre-clinical platform for multiple therapeutic options for low-RKIP expression breast cancer." Dr. Yeung was joined by laboratory staff member Miranda Yeung and student researcher Christopher Figy. Together, they are helping to elevate The University of Toledo's research profile on the global stage, advancing one of our strategic goals to distinguish UToledo regionally, nationally and internationally. As part of the symposium, Dr. Yeung was also awarded a Commemorative Certificate "in recognition of the discovery of RKIP, a ground-breaking advancement in the field of human diseases and therapeutics." (Featured in the May 19 newsletter)
UToledo researchers making waves at the NIH/NSF Oceans and Human Health All Centers Meeting
College of Medicine and Life Sciences faculty and students showcased their cutting-edge research at the NIH/NSF Oceans and Human Health All Centers Meeting, recently hosted by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California San Diego.
Drs. Steven Haller, Andrew Fribley, and David Kennedy shared findings from their research program funded by the State of Ohio’s Harmful Algal Bloom Research Initiative and the NIEHS/NSF Great Lakes Center for Fresh Waters and Human Health — one of just six national centers funded through the prestigious Oceans and Human Health program. Their work is advancing our understanding of how freshwater ecosystems impact human health and environmental sustainability.
Lab members Ben French, Upasana Shrestha, Bivek Timalsina, and Dr. Apurva Lad shared research from their ongoing projects on harmful algal blooms and emerging aquatic contaminants, including efforts to uncover new risks, solutions, and innovations that protect both our fresh waters and our communities. (Featured in the March 17 newsletter)
Kidney researcher studies new approach to treat common disease
Kidney researchers have uncovered a promising new approach for treating glomerular diseases, which left unchecked can cause kidney failure. Inside each kidney are hundreds of thousands of tiny filters called glomeruli that cleanse the blood, screening out waste products and excess water which is removed from the body through urine.
When those filters become damaged, however, they can also allow excess proteins to leak through — a condition known as proteinuria.
"It's kind of a chicken and egg situation," said Dr. Rujun Gong, professor in the Department of Medicine and director of kidney research. "Proteinuria, which can cause persistent foamy urine, is a significant diagnostic sign of kidney disease. But it also exacerbates kidney injury and can lead to other health problems including edema, malnutrition, dyslipidemia and an increased risk of heart disease. It is a vicious cycle."
(Featured in the May 5 newsletter)
UToledo members receive awards for American Physiology Summit
Members from the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology were awarded grants for the American Physiology Summit (APS), held in Baltimore in April.
Mrunmayee R. Kandalgaonkar, a Ph.D. candidate from Dr. Matam Vijay Kumar's lab, was honored with the Research Recognition Award from the Gastrointestinal & Liver Physiology Section for her abstract "A novel model to study Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis-associated Inflammatory Bowel Disease." She has also been invited for a Flash Talk and a poster presentation.
Oluwatosin Akinola, a Ph.D. student in Dr.Joe's lab, has been selected as a recipient of the Martin Frank Diversity Travel Award to attend the 2025 Summit. As the recipient, she will be provided up to $1,500 in travel expense reimbursement for meeting registration, airfare, housing, and ground transportation. She will also be paired with APS members to serve as mentors for the duration of the meeting (and after); attend a Career and Professional Development Networking Breakfast to network with fellow awardees and APS leaders; and participate in an Award Recognition Ceremony where she will be recognized by the society. Oluwatosin was also selected for the Capitol Hill Day, held in conjunction with the Summit. She will have the opportunity to attend three to six meetings with congressional staff to discuss the importance of women’s health research.
Dr. Venkatesh Katari, a postdoctoral fellow from Dr. Charles Thodeti’s lab, has been selected to present his research at the highly esteemed Gabor Kaley Award Featured Topic Session during the Microcirculatory Society Pre-Meeting Sessions. Dr. Katari’s abstract, titled "Mechanosensitive ion channel TRPV4 modulates endothelial autophagy and angiogenesis through the YAP/AMPK/mTOR pathway," has earned a coveted spot in the session. This session, themed "Highlights of Microcirculation in Aging, Cardiovascular, and Metabolic Diseases," will showcase groundbreaking research in the field. As part of the honor, Dr. Katari will deliver a 10-minute oral presentation followed by a Q&A session.
Medical Education team presents innovative curriculum study on national stage
Dr. Jeremy Laukka, Senior Associate Dean for Undergraduate Medical Education, along with medical students Gwynne Riley (M3, pictured above) and Grant Nelson (M2, pictured below), recently presented their research at the 2025 Annual Conference of The Generalists in Medical Education. Their study evaluated student mastery of core clinical skills using third-year clerkship subject exam data and demonstrated significant improvements following the curricular enhancements introduced in the College of Medicine’s undergraduate medical education program in 2017.
“The study highlights the continued success of our educational team in shaping a strong and effective curriculum model,” Dr. Laukka shares with us. “Gwynne and Grant, who are mentored by Dr. Bindu Menon for this study, did an exceptional job analyzing and interpreting the findings, and their work directly contributes to our ongoing continuous quality improvement efforts.”
Researchers attend annual physiological meeting
Postdocs and trainee from Dr. Charles Thodeti’s lab in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology recently attended the 39th Ohio Physiological Society (OPS) meeting, held in October at the University of Cincinnati.
Dr. Venkatesh Katari, a postdoctoral fellow, was awarded the Hans G. Folkesson Travel Award. This award will support part of his travel to the upcoming American Physiological Society Meeting 2026 in Minneapolis. Notably, this marks his second consecutive year as a recipient of the OPS travel award, following last year’s Dr. Peter K. Lauf Travel Award. In addition, Dr. Katari served as a poster judge for the young scientists, providing him with the opportunity to engage and evaluate peer’s research work.
Kesha Dalal, a fifth-year graduate student, presented her research as a poster titled “TRPV4 Mediated Mitochondrial Dynamics: A Novel Mechanism Regulating Endothelial Function and Angiogenesis.” In addition to showcasing her work, she also served as the trainee co-chair for oral and data blitz session.
Dr. Narendra Kondapalli, a postdoctoral fellow, presented his research in both the poster and data blitz sessions. His poster is titled “TRPV4 mechanotransduction mediates TGF-β2-induced Endothelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition.”
UToledo represented at AAMC regional conference in Detroit
Representatives from the Office of Student Affairs, Department of Medical Education, Office of M.D. Admissions, and the Academic Enrichment Center attended the 2025 Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) Central Group on Educational Affairs / Group on Student Affairs / Organization of Student Representatives meeting in Detroit.
"This was a great opportunity to share information with colleagues at other medical schools so we can help each other improve curriculum and student support," Dr. Randall Worth, Senior Associate Dean for Student Affairs and Admissions, shared with us.
Also at the meeting, second-year medical student Gwynne Riley presented her work on the UToledo M.D. program curriculum assessment.
The study, titled "Integration of clinical sciences with foundational science curriculum in pre-clerkship
years enhanced clinical skill performance in clerkships," was carried out under the mentorship of Drs. Jeremy Laukka, James Kleshinski and
Bindu Menon from the Department of Medical Education. Gwynne is an MSRP scholar working
on medical education research with Dr. Menon. (Featured in the April 28 newsletter)
Student & Resident Research
Medical Student Research Symposium
The Office of Student Affairs held the Medical Student Research Symposium in September, showcasing 50 second-year medical students' research from this past summer during the Medical Student Research Program (MSRP) and Community Health Project (CHP). Attendees enjoyed hearing what our M2s spent nine weeks of their previous summer doing!
National rheumatology meeting
Medical student Julia Foos recently presented groundbreaking research at the prestigious American College of Rheumatology (ACR) annual meeting in Chicago.
Under the mentorship of Dr. Nezam Altorok, professor in the Department of Medicine, Julia showcased her study investigating the impact of SGLT-2 inhibitors in patients with ANCA-associated vasculitis and kidney involvement, which was very well received by attendees especially in the vasculitis research community.
IDweek 2025
Two second-year medical students presented their research at IDWeek 2025, held recently in Atlanta. IDWeek is the premier scientific meeting for professionals in infectious diseases, attracting clinicians, researchers, pharmacists and public health experts from around the world.
Brayden Seliger presented the poster “History of penicillin allergy label is associated with adverse outcomes in a matched HIV cohort.” Working alongside faculty collaborators Dr. Eric Sahloff and Dr. Joan Duggan, Brayden analyzed the impact of penicillin allergy labels (PALs) on clinical outcomes in people with HIV. Their findings highlight that PALs may contribute to increased inpatient service use and higher risks of sepsis, bacteremia, pneumonia and urinary tract infections, underscoring the importance of antimicrobial stewardship.
Andrew Edgington presented “Changes in Antibiotic Timing and Selection for Pediatric Acute Osteomyelitis Following the 2021 IDSA Guidelines.” His project, conducted with Dr. Deepa Mukundan, Dr. Mounika Polavarapu and Dr. Shipra Singh, examined national prescribing trends after the IDSA recommended earlier IV-to-oral antibiotics transitions for pediatric acute hematogenous osteomyelitis. Their work helps inform ongoing efforts to optimize stewardship and improve patient outcomes in pediatric infectious diseases.
Surgeons Annual Congress
Two of our medical students recently presented their work on the national stage at the prestigious American College of Surgeons (ACS) 2025 Annual Congress in Chicago.
Fourth-year medical student Maya Mendonsa presented “Abdominal Pain After Complicated Cholecystectomy,” which included a surgical video on the technical aspects of difficult cholecystectomy and subtotal cholecystectomy. Her presentation included implications of patient follow-up and education, sharing clear recommendations for surveillance. Dr. Landon Cluts, Surgery PGY3 resident, was a co-author. Maya is applying for a surgical residency this year.
Third-year medical student Catherine “Alex” Cash presented “Evaluation of Informed Consent (EPA 11) Curriculum and Feedback in the Transition to Residency Course for Surgical Residencies.” Alex presented our ACC 2/3 (now rebranded as ACC Bootcamp) informed consent curriculum and its formative assessment approach. Alex also intends to pursue a surgical residency.
National plastic surgery meeting
Members of the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Club (PRSC) recently attended Plastic Surgery The Meeting (PSTM) in New Orleans. This national conference brings together leaders in plastic surgery — including medical students, residents, fellows and attendings — to share the latest innovations in the field.
Three members from PRSC presented their research as oral presentations:
- Amber Edson presented “Nationwide Demographic Trends and Postoperative Complications in Blepharoplasty: A TriNetX Analysis.” Special thanks to Dr. Richard Simman, a ProMedica plastic surgeon and longtime mentor to the club, who guided this project.
- Abigail Royfman presented “A Novel Scoring System to Assess Vascularized Composite Allograft Preservation with Adipose Stromal Cell-Derived Media,” a collaboration with NYU. Her abstract was recognized as a Top 50 Abstract and will be published in PRS Global Open.
- Noelle Thompson presented “‘I Wasn’t Heard At All’: Black Patients’ Perspectives on Communication in Surgery,” in collaboration with the University of Michigan.
Ohio Gastroenterology Society meeting
The University of Toledo represented by internal medicine residents had strong presence at the Ohio Gastroenterology Society Meeting, which was recently held in Columbus.
Drs. Yusuf Hallak, Maram Albandak, Umberto Battistin, Sana Rabeeah, Mohammed Abu-Rumaileh and Bisher Sawaf had several abstracts accepted — nearly one-third of all abstracts presented at this statewide conference. This remarkable accomplishment underscores the growing visibility and impact of UToledo’s research. This work was accomplished under guidance of the UToledo gastroenterology faculty especially Dr. Ali Nawras and Dr. Yaseen Alastal.
Ohio Association of Rheumatology meeting
The Department of Medicine and Division of Rheumatology had a strong showing at this year’s Annual Meeting of the Ohio Association of Rheumatology in Columbus. The UToledo team presented eight research posters, highlighting a wide range of clinical and academic work.
Medical student Bella Khatib-Shahidi delivered a well-received Thieves Market podium presentation. The UToledo delegation was led by Dr. Nezam Altorok, with Dr. Sabeen Sidiki, Rheumatology fellow, who was involved in mentoring and supporting medical students and internal medicine residents throughout the conference.
Among the participants were Dr. Dina Chabuk and Dr. Kishan Shrestha, internal medicine residents, along with medical students Bella Khatib-Shahidi, Angie Kamel, Aneesh Kathula and Julia Foos.
Wound Healing Society meeting
Third-year medical students Fatima Khan and Abby Royfman presented at this year's Wound Healing Society conference in Texas. Abby's abstract was accepted to compete in the Young Investigators Award Session at the 2025 Wound Healing Society Annual Meeting. She ended up scoring in the Top 4! The conference serves as an excellent networking platform for healthcare professionals, researchers, and industry leaders to exchange ideas, share knowledge, and collaborate towards improving outcomes for patients with pathologic and chronic wounds. (Featured in the June 16 newsletter)
Student recognized for outstanding research at CTSC conference
Second-year medical student Gabriel G. Bonassi earned first place at the Clinical and Translational Science Collaborative (CTSC) Research Discovery Day hosted by Case Western Reserve University. Gabriel presented his poster, "Disparities and Trends in Physical Restraint Use in U.S. Emergency Departments: A Retrospective Analysis (2018–2024)," and was awarded first place among participants at the conference.
"I wanted to thank my research mentors, Dr. Ahmed M. Afifi and Dr. Mohamad Moussa, as well as the judges, attendees and organizers who made this wonderful event possible," Gabriel shared with us. (Featured in the April 28 newsletter)
National Physicists in Medicine conference
Danielle Daiger, a second-year student in the graduate medical physics program, won first place for her research presentation at the Ohio River Valley Chapter meeting of the American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM). The regional meeting took place in Lexington, Kentucky, where she competed against students and residents from all over Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky. The presentation was based on her thesis research, "Plan Quality as a function of Planned Delivery for Breath-hold SBRT VMAT for Thoracic Patients," which she completed under her advisor, Dr. Nicholas Sperling, assistant professor in the Department of Radiation Oncology. Danielle was awarded by the regional chapter of the AAPM with a scholarship to attend the national meeting in Washington, D.C., in the summer, where she represented our region at the national level.
Student receives scholarship to attend meeting
Third-year medical student Madhu Rami Reddy attended the American Academy of Neurology Annual Meeting in San Diego on a medical student scholarship.
"It has been an incredibly rewarding experience—filled with meaningful learning, valuable connections and warm weather!" he shares with us. "I was honored to receive a certificate and be recognized at the event, and I know this wouldn't have happened without the encouragement and guidance of Dr. Robert Smith."
National cardiology conference
hird-year medical student Vincent Smith, along with classmates Bella Khatib-Shahadi (M3) and Vaishnavi Aradhyula (M4), presented research at the 2025 American College of Cardiology Conference in Chicago. The students conducted their research under the mentorship of Dr. Samer Khouri, Dr. Rajesh Gupta and Dr. David Kennedy in their lab.
"Our research was related to various lipid metabolites called Oxylipins and Eicosanoids that have been implicated in the potential increase in the prevalence of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction in various demographic groups, including age, race, and sex," Vincent shares with us. "Varying concentrations between groups were examined to create potential correlations with prevalence levels."
Events:
Match Day 2025
Fourth-year medical students learned their residency placements at the annual Match Day ceremony on Friday, March 21; 167 UToledo students matched in 23 medical specialties across 28 states.
From anesthesiology to urology, our students matched into more than 20 highly competitive specialties at top-tier programs across the country, including Yale, Mayo Clinic, UCSF, Cleveland Clinic, Vanderbilt, and Case Western. In total, UToledo students matched in 23 specialties across 28 states. Ohio led the way with 71 students matching in-state, followed by placements in Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, New York, and California. We’re especially proud to share that 19 students will remain at UToledo to continue their training in our residency programs. See the 2025 Match Results.
- Read a recap in UToledo News
- Watch our Instagram countdown reel
- Watch our Instagram student reel
- View our social media wall
Congratulations to our Military Match students!
- James (J.T.) Bassett: Emergency Medicine, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia (Army)
- Victor De Leon: Transitional Year, UC Davis Health and Travis Air Force Base (AFB) , Sacramento, California (Air Force)
Welcome, M.D. Class of 2029!
Students in our 57th entering class are coming to the university from more than 20 different states, representing undergraduate universities from Harvard University to Princeton Yale University. More than 60 percent of the new students are Ohio residents, and approximately 22 percent are from northwest Ohio. See the class profile.
Our 54th Commencement Exercises
A total of 219 degrees/certificates were awarded at our 54th Commencement Exercises on May 23 at John F. Savage Arena on Main Campus: 165 doctor of medicine degrees, 11 doctor of philosophy degrees, 41 master's degrees and two certificates. Watch our Tribute to the Class of 2025, played before the ceremony.
Commencement profile: Future physician-scientist finds opportunity, support at UToledo
Dr. Nicholas Henkel, who already earned a Ph.D. from UToledo, graduated with his medical degree and will begin a prestigious residency in neurology.
“I’m very grateful for the experience that I’ve had at Toledo. There is a lot of opportunity here,” he told UToledo News. “Some of the things I have done and been able to see is special. I think there’s a really nice blend of pure clinical medicine and academic components too. I’ve had great mentors here and I’ve been supported all the way through.” Read more in UToledo News.
Commencement Profile: Mother of 2 enrolls in medical school to chase lifelong dream
Dr. Amy Waters celebrated her 41st birthday with a gift to herself — a medical degree. It’s been a long time coming. The mother of two first dreamed of being a doctor as a middle schooler growing up in Toledo.
“It was probably one of the happiest days of my life,” she told UToledo News of getting into medical school. “It was this realization that I can do this at my age with kids, having had a different career — I felt like so many doors opened for me that day.”
Fall 2025 Commencement Profile: Exceptional research opportunities, personal growth drew Nepali student to UToledo for Ph.D.
Now thousands of miles from his home in Bhaktapur, Nepal, Sachin Aryal’s journey to The University of Toledo and into the Ph.D. Molecular Medicine Program began with a conversation.
“I communicated with one of my seniors from Nepal who was pursuing a master’s degree in bioinformatics at UToledo,” Sachin told UToledo News. “Through her, I got to know more about the program and I found it very interesting. Then I applied and got selected with a full scholarship and stipend, which made it easy for me to select UToledo as my college.”
He started at UToledo with a background in computational bioinformatics which required a leap to transition into molecular medicine. Sachin said it was his greatest challenge to navigate between the two fields but ultimately became his greatest success, earning him a multitude of awards and recognitions.
Sachin graduated Dec. 13, with his Ph.D. in molecular medicine. Read more in UToledo News.
Congratulations, P.A. Class of 2025!
In December, we celebrated our graduating Physician Assistant students with the End of Program Ceremony. Students received new white coats and recited the Physician Assistant Statement of Values.
Congratulations again to our new P.A. Program graduates!
With gratitude and grace: Memorial service honors selfless donors
The University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences held its annual Body Donor Memorial Service, a solemn ceremony dedicated to honoring those individuals who made the selfless decision to donate their bodies for medical education and research. The event brought together students, faculty, staff and donor family members in a shared moment of gratitude and reflection.
Medical students Sarah Atallah, Meredith Citkowski, Priyanka Pulvender, Luke Roberts and Brendon Rubel were members of the planning committee and spoke about how the donations make possible hands on learning in anatomy that lectures or models cannot replicate, emphasizing the lasting impact donors have on the future of medicine. The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Mary Smith, who reflected on the deep human connection inherent in medical education and reminded attendees that behind every lesson is a life lived. Dr. Smith stated in her remarks, “the impact each of your loved ones has had will never be taken for granted, each of us owes a lifetime of debt to these wonderful people. Thank you for trusting us with this precious gift.”
Former NIH official, pediatric cancer researcher delivers Hussain Visiting Lecture, grand rounds
During the 16th Annual S. Amjad Hussain, M.D. Visiting Lecture in Medical Humanities, Dr. Nina F. Schor presented “Poetry as a Pathfinder through Burnout and Difficult Conversations.” She explored how she bridges the worlds of medicine and the arts — and how embracing the humanities can both provide physicians an antidote to burnout and better equip them for having difficult conversations with their patients.
“I think that art and science are part of one very beautiful continuum. Each brings a richness to the other that all of us really benefit from,” she told UToledo News ahead of the lecture. “Being a physician involves not only understanding the science and the medicine but being able to relate to and explain things to other people whose backgrounds may be very, very different from your own.”
Dr. Schor is currently Professor of Pediatrics, Neurology, and Neurobiology and Chair Emerita of the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Rochester. From January 2018 through September 2025, she served at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), first as Deputy Director at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), and, from August 2022 to September 2025, as the NIH Deputy Director for Intramural Research.
2025 Larry Gentry Forum
The Department of Cell and Cancer Biology recently hosted the 2025 Larry Gentry Research Forum at the Lancelot Thompson Student Union on Main Campus. The event honors former faculty member Dr. Larry Gentry, whose dedication to medical research continues to inspire our community. Dr. Robert Trumbly opened the forum with a memorial speech celebrating Dr. Gentry’s life and work.
This student-led event was organized by Ph.D. candidates Bennett Allison and Augustine Kwabil (pictured above with Dr. Saladi), with several sessions all chaired by students. Fourteen presenters, including 12 Ph.D. students and two postdoctoral fellows, delivered excellent talks spanning research topics on cancers of breast, pancreas, prostate, lung, and head and neck.
This year’s keynote speaker was Dr. Srinivas Vinod Saladi, an alum and an assistant professor in Cell and Cancer Biology. He spoke on “Defining transcriptional reprogramming and plasticity in cancer” and shared insights on Ph.D. training, postdoctoral development, and academic career growth.
New graduate students welcomed in annual Biomedical Science Lab Coat Ceremony
In October, we officially welcomed our new graduate students at the recent Biomedical Science Graduate Program’s Lab Coat Ceremony. We presented them with new lab coats courtesy of The University of Toledo Alumni Association, which paid for the white coats given out.
Beginning their journey, students seek Master’s, Ph.D. and dual degrees in research tracks that include cancer biology, molecular medicine and bioinformatics. This year, 13 Ph.D., one M.D./Ph.D. and two MSBS students will receive their lab coats.
If you are interested in contributing to this tradition, please visit our website for more information.
Interprofessional Education kicks off new academic year
The 2025 Interprofessional Education (IPE) Kickoff brought together 10 programs and more than 450 students earlier this month, inside the Thompson Student Union on Main Campus. To ensure meaningful engagement, students were divided into two groups for the event. The kickoff began with a presentation outlining the objectives of IPE and its importance in the curriculum.
Several distinguished guests were in attendance, including Dr. Kris Brickman, representing the College of Medicine and Life Sciences; Dr. Mark Merrick, dean of the College of Health and Human Services; Dr. Julie Murphy, associate dean of the College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences; and all faculty members from the IPE program.
Students celebrate milestone at Student Clinician Ceremony, residents honored with Humanism and Excellence in Teaching Awards
Medical students going into their third year attended an annual rite of passage in April: The Student Clinician Ceremony. The ceremony is a transitional experience designed to provide guidance, information and support to medical students beginning their clerkships. Students received brand new coats for the journey ahead, thanks to generous donors and The University of Toledo Alumni Association. Dr. Cathi Badik, associate professor in the Department of Pediatrics and 2003 alumna, presented the new white coats to the Class of 2027 on behalf of the alumni affiliate. (Featured in the April 28 newsletter)
Toledo Cancer Research Symposium showcases regional collaboration and innovation
The Department of Cell and Cancer Biology recently hosted the Toledo Cancer Research Symposium, bringing together researchers, clinicians and students from The University of Toledo and across Northwest Ohio to share cutting-edge cancer research and foster collaboration.
The full-day event featured 20 oral presentations and 54 posters, covering topics such as tumor biology, drug resistance, cancer epigenetics, clinical perspectives and artificial intelligence. Nearly 165 attendees including medical, graduate and undergraduate students, residents, and faculty participated in the symposium.
A major highlight was the keynote lecture by Dr. Peter A. Jones, President and Chief Scientific Officer of the Van Andel Research Institute and an award-winning member of the National Academy of Sciences. A pioneer in cancer epigenetics, Dr. Jones shared insights into how epigenetic discoveries can lead to clinical breakthroughs.
The symposium demonstrated the strength of the region’s cancer research community and the University’s commitment to translating scientific advances into better outcomes for patients.
Winners announced for the Graduate Research Annual Forum presentations
The Council of Biomedical Graduate Students (CBGS) presented the Graduate Research Annual Forum in March. This exciting event showcases groundbreaking research from biomedical science graduate students through oral and poster presentations, judged by faculty and postdoctoral fellows. And this year, the event added Data Blitz, a fast-paced session highlighting innovative research in quick, engaging talks.
Dr. Priya Shah, Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering and Microbiology and Molecular Genetics at the University of California, Davis, served as the keynote speaker. A Toledo native, Dr. Shah began her research career in high school at The University of Toledo (she is pictured presenting the keynote above with an archive photo on the screen behind her). Learn more about the forum and see the list of winners.
Department of Neurology hosts Research Day
The Department of Neurology recently held its 2025 Neurology Research Day, which provides faculty members, fellows, residents and students with opportunities to showcase their research endeavors among colleagues and the community at large.
This celebration included an address from keynote speaker, Dr. Jeffrey A. Loeb, John S. Garvin Chair, Professor and Head of the Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation at the University of Illinois Chicago, who spoke on "Targeting Nerve Injury-Induced Neuroinflammation in Neurodegeneration." Participation in the annual Research Day was open to all faculty, residents, and fellows in the Department of Neurology. Thanks to everyone in the Department of Neurology for making this a successful event. (Featured in the March 24 newsletter)
Department of Neurosciences and Psychiatry holds 2nd annual Research Symposium
The Department of Neurosciences and Psychiatry held its second Research Symposium. The event provided an opportunity for faculty, fellows, residents, and students to showcase their research projects for colleagues and the community at large. The afternoon program included lunch, poster presentations and selected faculty speakers from the department.
The keynote speaker was Dr. Samuel M. Young, Jr., Director of the Gene Therapy Center, Professor and Roper Investigator in the Department of Pediatrics with a secondary appointment in the Department of Pharmacology at the University of North-Carolina-Chapel Hill. The keynote, titled "Presynaptic CaV2 Calcium channels: Elucidating their regulatory roles in synaptic transmission and the development of gene therapy approaches for CaV2 disorders," was followed by poster awards.
Participation in the Research Symposium was open to all faculty, residents and fellows in the department. (Featured in the March 10 newsletter)
Rocket Forward Day of Giving makes an impact
Our community came together for Rocket Forward Day of Giving in February. Celebrating the eighth-annual campaign, the 36-hour effort generated 3,882 gifts through online donations and live event participation leading to $2,102,228. The 2025 campaign finished strong with a 58% increase in gifts and raised an additional 23% — $389,106 — when compared to the previous year.
Our college campaign received $550,882 from 233 donors – thank you! Donor Affiliations included 28% faculty and staff, 20% alumni, 17% friends, 16% students and 5% parents. Read more in UToledo News.
M.D./Ph.D. Student Retreat
M.D./Ph.D. students held their annual retreat in January, where they showcased their research and engaged in discussions on scientific advancements. The event featured a keynote address from Dr. Anthony Cyr, clinical assistant professor in the Department of Surgery at the University of Pittsburgh.
About the program: Students complete the first two years of medical school before transitioning to dedicated Ph.D. research and training. After earning their doctorate, they return to medical school to complete their third and fourth years, integrating their scientific expertise with clinical training. (Featured in the Feb. 10 newsletter)
P.A. Program Patch Ceremony 2025
In January, our Physician Assistant (P.A.) Program Class of 2025 received special patches for their white coats as they transition to clinical rotations for the last part of their 27-month program. The class graduated in December. Per tradition, patches were presented by the first-year class. Watch our recap video on Instagram. (Featured in the Feb. 3 newsletter)
Community Engagement:
UToledo hosts inaugural Perry Initiative Student Outreach Program
n fall 2024, the College of Medicine and Life Sciences welcomed Dr. Lisa Lattanza, professor and chair of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation at Yale School of Medicine, for Grand Rounds. Dr. Lattanza highlighted her work with The Perry Initiative, a national program dedicated to expanding opportunities in orthopedic surgery and engineering for women.
Inspired by her message, Dr. Gabrielle Notorgiacomo, a PGY2 resident in Orthopaedic Surgery, collaborated with the Interprofessional Immersive Simulation Center and the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery to bring the program to UToledo. After months of preparation, the University hosted its inaugural Perry Initiative Medical Student Outreach Program this fall, welcoming 14 medical students for hands-on surgical skills training and guidance from faculty and residents. Some students traveled here from as far as Akron.
The event was led by Dr. Martin Skie, professor and chair in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, along with orthopedic residents and a fellow, who shared insights on pathways into the specialty. Under Dr. Skie’s leadership, UToledo’s orthopedic residency has seen 30% women matching into the program, nearly double the national average.
“This inaugural event was a tremendous success,” Dr. Skie shared with us. “Thanks to the inspiration of Dr. Lisa Lattanza, our hope is to continue this program in the years ahead to inspire even more medical students to consider orthopaedic surgery.”
Office of M.D. Admissions participates in Ohio Medical Education Day (OMED)
The College of Medicine and Life Sciences Office of M.D. Program Admissions was proud to participate in the 2025 Ohio Medical Education Day (OMED) this fall.
This year's OMED brought together nearly 200 pre-med students from across Ohio. Pre-Health advisors and presenters from various institutions also attended. Notably, Danielle Dougherty, Director of Admissions for COMLS Programs, played a key role in the event. She delivered two presentations offering valuable insights on application preparation, considerations for taking a gap year and participated in the recruiting fair portion of the event.
UTMC sponsors first Community Health-fare
The University of Toledo Medical Center sponsored its first collaborative Community Health-fare in August during the Festival of India. The health-fare organizing team led by Dr. Puneet Sindhwani, Sharvari Brahme, Sampriti Senapati, and Medha Ramasamy, worked tirelessly for the past 6 months to bring this event to fruition. They were ably supported by the members of Yuva Shakti, High schoolers, UToledo undergraduates, graduates and Medical students.
Providers conducted 121 blood tests and 29 urine screenings, with 85 patients registering for the event. Of those, 35 required counseling for health conditions ranging from diabetes and high blood pressure to kidney disease and high cholesterol. Care was extended to people aged 22 to 87, representing communities across northwest Ohio as well as nationalities from around the world. Pharmacists were on site to provide medication assistance and distribute free glucometers, multivitamins and first-aid samples. Student volunteers helped with outreach, registration and patient support throughout the day.
Rise and Thrive
The Rise and Thrive Community Health Fair was recently held at the Wayman Palmer YMCA in Toledo. The day featured school supply giveaways, interactive activities and health resources, all designed to help students start the new school year confident and prepared. It was a fun-filled event!
As part of their commitment to community advocacy, our Department of Pediatrics residents were on hand to perform sports physicals.
“Your department’s presence was felt in every corner of the event — answering parents’ questions, guiding families through resources and providing the kind of expert, compassionate care that only UToledo Pediatrics can deliver,” organizer Dr. Jaime McBride shared with the group. “Families are left with not just information, but with peace of mind and confidence heading into the school year.”
Miles for Missions
In August, nine first-year medical students took part in SewHope’s Miles for Missions Raffle Run at Side Cut Metropark, thanks to the sponsorship of Dr. Kathryn Eisenmann and her husband, Pete Haak.
On a humid evening, the M1s ran through all eight stations, logging just over five miles, and they picked up a few raffle prizes and connected with event organizer and retired UToledo faculty member Dr. Randy Ruch. The run doubled as a team-builder and a doorway to future service with SewHope, as students began exploring additional volunteer opportunities.
Emergency Medicine team trains at ‘Venom & Vigilance’ event at Toledo Zoo
Our Department of Emergency Medicine recently held its annual Venom & Vigilance: Emergency Response Training at the Toledo Zoo. Faculty, residents and EM-bound fourth-year medical students participated in the immersive, simulation-driven workshop.
Participants rotated through stations designed to build vital skills, including identifying venomous creatures, recognizing toxic plant exposures and performing effective first-aid responses to envenomation and toxin-related emergencies. Each station was led by core faculty, providing targeted, hands-on guidance and reinforcing the department’s commitment to simulation-based education and learner development.
The Toledo Zoo setting offered a dynamic backdrop for scenario-based exercises, allowing participants to sharpen rapid-decision-making skills in realistic environments.
This annual training strengthens resident and student engagement, underscores the role of simulation as a cornerstone of the curriculum and promotes excellence in emergency care through innovative training. Thank you to the Emergency Medicine faculty and staff who made this year’s Venom & Vigilance workshop a success.
CampMed provides introduction to medicine
Incoming high school freshmen received a hands-on introduction to the field of medicine during the annual CampMed program this summer.
Students rotated through a wide variety of sessions during the two-day camp, including a tour of University’s gross anatomy lab, a suturing workshop and a CPR class where they were taught the proper way to perform CPR on adults and infants, how to use an automated external defibrillator and how to clear the airway of a choking infant.
"It's been fun," said Cuper Kania, who will be a freshman at Perkins High School near Sandusky this fall. "I've always had a fascination with the human body and I'm glad I got to learn more about it. I’m seriously considering a job in the medical field."
CampMed is geared toward students entering their freshman year of high school who
excel in science and mathematics and — like Kania — may be considering a future career
in medicine, medical research, pharmacy or related fields. Twenty-five students representing
12 northwest Ohio high schools took part in this year’s program.
The camp is organized by the UToledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences and the
UToledo Ohio Area Health Education Center program.
Medical school admissions office hosts MedStart
In the summer, the Medical School Admissions Office hosted the MedStart Summer Program, welcoming 18 early-admitted medical students from across the country. This nine-day program featured lectures by clinical faculty, service-learning projects and group outings.
It provided these future medical students an opportunity to interact with our faculty, current students, and each other before they matriculate into medical school in 2026. Thank you to everyone who contributed to the success of the program.
Event on campus inspires young learners through hands-on activities
Our Office of Inclusion and Opportunity hosted the 4th Annual Reach Out to Youth (ROTY) event in April, welcoming 66 students ages 7-11 from St. Pius X School and Escuela SMART Academy.
This year’s theme focused on the musculoskeletal system, helping students learn how to keep their bodies healthy and strong. Medical and Physician Assistant students led the ROTY participants through a series of engaging, hands-on activities designed to demonstrate how muscles work in the body.
Thank you to the Student National Medical Association (SNMA) leadership, our dedicated volunteers, and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Ohio for their invaluable support in making this event a continued success.
Student serves as judge at International Science and Engineering Fair in Columbus
Sachin Aryal, a Ph.D. trainee in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, had the privilege of serving as a Grand Award Judge at 75th Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) 2025 in Columbus. Regeneron ISEF is organized by the Society for Science and is the world’s largest international STEM research competition for high-school students. This year, ISEF had over 1,600 high-school finalists from over 60 countries, regions, and territories, including 49 U.S. states. (Featured in the June 16 newsletter)
Rheumatology team supports community education at Lupus Awareness Day
Pictured, from left to right: Faculty Dr. Nezam Altorok,
Dr. Bashar Kahaleh, Dr. Aya Abugharbyeh and fellow Dr. Samantha Davis.
The University of Toledo Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, faculty and Rheumatology fellow recently participated in the annual Lupus Awareness Day as part of community outreach.
The UToledo physicians participated in a panel of healthcare professionals to provide education to the community in Toledo. The panelists answered questions about the condition, treatment, lifestyle concerns, and more. Lupus patients, family, friends and caregivers were part of the audience and they appreciated UToledo community engagement.
Students serve as judges at local science fair
As part of the University of Toledo’s Strategic Plan 2023-2028: UToledo Reimagined, predoctoral students from the Department of Cell and Cancer Biology are actively engaging with the community through service and collaboration. In February, Ahmad Hegazi, Rejina Shrestha and Augustine Kwabil served as judges for the Ottawa High School Science Fair, where they evaluated projects from 9th through 12th-grade students. Participants were assessed on their knowledge, creativity, and presentation skills, fostering scientific curiosity and excellence among local students.
Their involvement exemplifies UToledo’s commitment to regional distinction and meaningful community partnerships through education and mentorship. (Featured in the March 17 newsletter)
Ambassadors mentor future physicians in Dayton
Three COMLS Ambassador medical students — Farzana Qurban, Kristina White and Zumair Hayath — recently attended a multicultural mentorship event at the University of Dayton. The event provided an opportunity for them to connect with pre-med students, sharing their experiences and offering valuable guidance on the path to medical school. The event featured a panel discussion, followed by smaller, personalized tabling sessions. These discussions allowed for deeper conversations, allowing our students to share their experiences in medical school and offer guidance to prospective future applicants.
Medicine Ball 2025: Raises funds Free Healthcare in Toledo And Beyond
Medicine Ball 2025 was a great success! It was a wonderful evening of good food, great company, and dancing at the Glass City Center downtown to celebrate another successful year and raise money to ensure the continuity of free healthcare in Toledo and around the globe.
"I am proud to announce that this event was a huge success again this year with nearly 600 guests and over $17,500 raised," student and Planning Committee member Avery Lewis shares with us. "At the CommunityCare Clinics, $1 donated provides $81 in free healthcare with dignity, so this money is going to go incredibly far and impact thousands of lives!"
This great annual event raises funds for patient care efforts at CommunityCare Clinics (CCC), global health outreach through Students for Medical Missions (SMM), and student mentorship and development programs through the American Medical Student Association (AMSA).
In the Media:
13abc
- VIDEO: Dr. Imran Ali, dean of the College of Medicine and Life Sciences, talks about the incoming class of 175 medical students. The college hosted a white coat ceremony on Friday, July 25.
- VIDEO: Courtney K. Combs, director of the UToledo and Ohio Area Health Education Center programs, discusses with 13abc the annual CampMed program that offers high school students a hands-on look at potential careers in medicine.
- VIDEO: Dr. Alisa Roberts, assistant professor in the Department of Emergency Medicine, explains the value of familiarizing emergency medicine physicians with what happens before patients arrive at a hospital.
- VIDEO: Dr. Amy Waters, a mother of two who graduated with her medical degree on her 41st birthday, talks about her decision to pursue a lifelong goal of going to medical school.
- VIDEO: Dr. Jennifer DeLucia, assistant professor in the Department of Pediatrics and a UToledo Health pediatrician, talks with 13abc about key issues of healthcare disparities during UToledo's Community Heath Summit.
- VIDEO: Dr. Natalie Rizk, assistant professor in the Department of Surgery and a breast surgical oncologist, and Dr. Mersiha Hadziahmetovic, associate professor and chair in the Department of Radiation Oncology and a radiation oncologist, explain to 13abc how UToledo Health is advancing breast cancer care.
- VIDEO: Aaron Grau, one of more than 150 fourth-year medical students who learned their residency placements on Friday, March 21, discusses with 13abc his anticipation and excitement for Match Day.
- VIDEO: Dr. Steven Haller and Dr. David Kennedy, both associate professors in the Department of Medicine, discuss UToledo’s recent R1 Classification and opportunities for students to get involved in research early in their academic career.
- VIDEO: Dr. Natalie Rizk, assistant professor in the Department of Surgery and a breast surgical oncologist, talks about UToledo Health's commitment to the community ahead of the UToledo Community Health Summit.
- VIDEO: Dr. Kunal Yadav, assistant professor in the Department of Urology and a UToledo Health transplant surgeon, and Taylor Iceman, who underwent a successful kidney and pancreas transplant at UTMC last month, talk about the new program and how transformative pancreas transplants can be for patients with diabetes.
AOL
How Exercise Really Affects Your Testosterone, According to Doctors
Dr. Ahmed El-Zawahry, associate professor in the Department of Urology and a UToledo Health urologist,
explains that exercise supports overall health but doesn’t directly lead to long-term
increases in testosterone.
Audiommunity
Episode 48 - The Tyranny of the FACS machine
Dr. Zachary Hilt, assistant professor in the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, was
recently invited to discuss his research on Audiommunity, an immunology-focused podcast
hosted by Dr. Kevin Bonham and Dr. Matthew Woodruff. The podcast highlights early-career
scientists and supports scientific communication within the immunology community.
At the start of the episode, Dr. Hilt described his lab’s focus on understanding why neonates are more susceptible to certain pathogens early in life compared to asymptomatic adults, and how infection timing influences long-term health outcomes.
Later in the discussion, Dr. Hilt explored the differences between neonatal and adult T-cell responses and led a journal club–style conversation on a recent study about neonatal regulatory T cells (Tregs), helping contextualize the findings within the broader field of immunology.
The Himalayan Times
Rising Challenges of Parkinson’s Disease in Nepal and the Road Ahead
Dipesh Pokharel, a Ph.D. candidate in the Neuroscience and Neurological Disorders Track of our Biomedical
Science Program, writes an article on Parkinson's disease for Nepal's Top English
daily newspaper.
Between two worlds: A decade of becoming
Sachin Aryal, a Ph.D. trainee in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, writes an article
for Nepal's Top English daily newspaper: “This August marks ten years since I left
Nepal to pursue higher education in the United States. Born and raised in Kathmandu,
I had just completed my bachelor's degree in microbiology from St. Xavier's College
when I packed my bags and set off, with a head full of textbook knowledge and a heart
full of hopes. I thought I was ready. And academically, I probably was. But culturally?
Not at all.”
Nepali PhD student in the U.S. honored with University of Toledo's highest award "Tower
of Excellence"
Ishan Manandhar, Ph.D. candidate in Molecular Medicine in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology,
was recently profiled in Nepal's Top English daily newspaper. The story highlighted
his Ph.D. journey and his recent recognition with UToledo’s Tower of Excellence Award.
Inc.
This Company 3D-Prints With Fat to Heal Chronic Wounds
Dr. Munier Nazzal, professor in the Department of Surgery and a UToledo Health vascular surgeon, discusses
a treatment that uses a patient’s own fat cells to accelerate healing of chronic wounds
that's newly available at UToledo Health.
Academic Medicine, Close to Home: A Conversation with UToledo Medical Leaders
Former Interim President Matthew Schroeder sat down with Dr. Charles Callahan, Executive Vice President for Health Affairs and CEO of UToledo Health, and Dr. Imran Ali, Dean of the College of Medicine and Life Sciences, to explore how UToledo’s approach
to academic medicine is not only distinctive but essential – for Toledo, the region
and the broader field of healthcare.
Los Angeles Times
Majestic Wild Horses are Trampling Mono Lake’s Otherworldly Landscape. The Feds Plan
a Roundup
Dr. John Turner, a professor emeritus in the College of Medicine and Life Sciences, explains why
the population of a herd of wild horses in east central California has surged over
the last two decades.
Medscape
Clinical Time in Medical School: How to Make the Most of It
Dr. Jeremy Laukka, senior associate dean for undergraduate medical education, discusses the power of
clinical training in medical school.
Newsweek
Emerging Treatment Could ‘Significantly Improve’ This Chronic Condition
Dr. Blair Grubb, a UToledo Health cardiologist and Distinguished University Professor in the College
of Medicine and Life Sciences, discusses how a heart failure drug can be repurposed
to treat POTS.
NPR
Dr. James Burkett, assistant professor in the Department of Neurosciences and Psychiatry, comments on a new study in the journal Science observing how laboratory mice react to their anesthetized cage mates.
- STORY: Lab mice may give 'first aid' to unconscious mates
- AUDIO: Lab Mice Will Try to Revive Their Knocked-out Friends, Study Reveals
Outdoor News
Certain Maladies Riskier Post-Exposure to Harmful Algal Blooms
Dr. David Kennedy, professor in the Department of Medicine, talks about how preexisting health conditions
may put people at higher risk of illness if exposed to toxins released during harmful
algal blooms.
Rockets on Call Podcast
Several members of our College of Medicine and Life Sciences community are featured on the new season of the Rockets on Call podcast, a series produced by the Pre-Health Advising Center for undergraduate students interested in medical careers. Faculty and students shared insights on topics such as life in medical school, the application process, clinical training and their personal paths in medicine. Season 2 episodes featuring COMLS participants have included Dr. Deborah Hendricks, Dr. James Kleshinski and student Kylie Speiker. More episodes are planned throughout the spring semester. Episodes are available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Self
How to Exercise Outside With Raynaud’s Syndrome Without Freezing Your Fingers Off
Dr. Bashar Kahaleh, professor in the Department of Medicine and a UToledo Health rheumatologist, provides
tips for individuals living with Raynaud’s syndrome, which can cause numbness and
pain in the fingers during exposure to cold.
Spectrum News
University of Toledo Receives $2.32 Grant to Study Serious Lung Condition
Dr. Sailaja Paruchuri, professor in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, is investigating whether
a medication already approved to treat asthma could also help patients with acute
lung injury.
Study Shows Link Between COVID-19 and Rise in POTS Diagnoses
Dr. Blair Grubb, Distinguished University Professor in the Department of Medicine and a UToledo Health
cardiologist, explains new research from UToledo that found a large spike in POTS
diagnoses after the emergence of COVID-19.
I Spy Physiology Blog
Sachin Aryal, a Ph.D. trainee in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, has been featured in the American Physiological Society’s I Spy Physiology blog:
- Bile Acids and Gut Microbiota Work Together to Regulate Blood Pressure
- What You Need to Know About the Gut Microbiota and High Blood Pressure
- The Epigenetic Code: What Controls Our Genes Without Changing Them?
The Physiologist Magazine
How Gut Microbes Shape Blood Pressure and Drug Response
Dr. Tao Yang, assistant professor in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, was recently
profiled in the May edition of the magazine published by the American Physiological
Society.
Port Clinton News Herald
Scientists Release Harmful Algal Bloom Forecast for Lake Erie
Dr. David Kennedy, professor in the Department of Medicine, talked about UToledo’s ongoing research
into how toxins produced during harmful algal blooms can become airborne during an
annual event at Gibraltar Island.
Toledo Blade
Student Columns
A new treatment strategy emerges for prostate cancer metastasis
Shubhra Kanti Dey, a Ph.D. student in the Cell and Cancer Biology Track of our Biomedical Science Program,
wrote a column in the Toledo Blade sharing his research on metastatic prostate cancer.
Shubhra is conducting his research in the laboratory of Dr. Xiaohong Li in the Department of Cell and Cancer Biology.
The link between limb dominance and Parkinson’s Disease
Dipesh Pokharel, a Ph.D. candidate in the Neuroscience and Neurological Disorders Track of our Biomedical
Science Program, wrote a column in the Toledo Blade sharing his research on Parkinson’s disease. Dipesh is conducting his research in
the laboratory of Dr. Thyagarajan Subramanian.
How 'dormancy' research at UT could transform cancer care
Augustine Kwabil, a Ph.D. student in the Cell and Cancer Biology track of our Biomedical Science Program,
wrote a column in the Toledo Blade sharing his research on prostate cancer. He is conducting his research in the laboratory
of Dr. Xiaohong Li in the Department of Cell and Cancer Biology.
Disarming the silent killer: A new approach to target pancreatic cancer
Rejina Shrestha, a Ph.D. student in the Cell and Cancer Biology track of our Biomedical Science Program,
wrote a column in the Toledo Blade sharing her research on pancreatic cancer. She is conducting her research in the
laboratory of Dr. Kuo-hui Su in the Department of Cell and Cancer Biology.
The bloom also rises: Investigating the air we breathe around Lake Erie
Bivek Timalsina, a Ph.D. student in the Medical Microbiology and Immunology track of our Biomedical
Science Program, wrote a column in the Toledo Blade sharing his research investigating the air we breathe around Lake Erie. Bivek is
conducting his research in the laboratories of Drs. David Kennedy and Steven Haller.
A surprising role for inflammatory lipids in atherosclerosis
Somayeh Darzi, a Ph.D. candidate in the Molecular Medicine track of our Biomedical Science Program,
wrote a column in the Toledo Blade sharing her research on inflammatory lipids in atherosclerosis. Somayeh is conducting
her doctoral research under the supervision of Dr. Sailaja Paruchuri in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology.
Brain traffic control: UT researcher uses AI to map signals of Alzheimer’s disease
William (Billy) George Ryan V, a Ph.D. candidate in the Bioinformatics track of our Biomedical Science Program,
wrote a column in the Toledo Blade sharing his research using AI to map signals of
Alzheimer’s disease. Billy is conducting his Ph.D. research in the lab of Dr. Robert Smith in the Department of Neurosciences and Psychiatry.
The weed that keeps growing: Tackling breast cancer stem-like cells
Azeezat O. Osikoya, a Ph.D. student in the Cell and Cancer Biology track of our Biomedical Science Program,
wrote a column in the Toledo Blade sharing her research into a protein that plays a key role in the progression of triple-negative
breast cancer. She is conducting her research in the laboratory of Dr. Dayanidhi Raman in the Department of Cell and Cancer Biology.
Does Parkinson’s disease start in the gut? Non-motor symptoms may appear earlier
Caroline Swain, an M.D./Ph.D. candidate in the Neuroscience and Neurological Disorders Track of
our Biomedical Science Program, wrote a column in the Toledo Blade discussing her research on Parkinson’s disease. Caroline is conducting her research
with Dr. Thyagarajan Subramanian.
Rewiring the gut-liver connection: A new path to lower blood pressure
Sachin Aryal, a Ph.D. candidate in the Molecular Medicine Track of our Biomedical Science Program,
wrote a column in the Toledo Blade discussing his research on lowering blood pressure.
He is conducting his research in the laboratory of Dr. Bina Joe in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology.
Overworked Muscles Can Lead to Injuries on the Pickleball Court
Dr. David Sohn, professor in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and a UToledo Health orthopaedic
surgeon and sports medicine specialist, discusses cross-training and stretching as
strategies to mitigate injury among pickleball players.
UToledo Health's New Therapy Helps Patients with Depression Rewire the Brain
Dr. Tanvir Singh and Dr. Robert Smith, faculty members in the Department of Neurosciences and Psychiatry and UToledo Health
psychiatrists, and Michelle Harris, clinical coordinator for transcranial magnetic stimulation, discuss the treatment
and its potential to help patients with treatment-resistant depression.
Talking Turkey: Political Discussions May Cut Thanksgiving Dinner Short
Dr. Victoria Kelly, assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry and a UToledo Health psychiatrist,
discusses healthy communication and setting conversational boundaries in the context
of political disagreements with family members.
Faster, Better Healthcare One of the Practical Benefits AI Can Provide, UToledo Experts
Agree
Dr. Michael Ellis, professor in the Department of Medicine, a UToledo Health infectious disease specialist
and chief medical officer at UTMC, joined colleagues in discussing the power of artificial
intelligence to rapidly diagnose medical conditions during Friday's AI in Healthcare
Symposium on Health Science Campus.
High Anxiety: Diagnosing Reason for Screams is Key to Night Terrors
Dr. Andre Aguillon, assistant professor in the Department of Medicine and a UToledo Health sleep medicine
specialist, discusses differences between nightmares and the night terrors that are
more common in children than adults.
Ask the Experts: Deep Brain Stimulation Offers Options for Patients and Neurosurgeons
Dr. Alastair Hoyt, associate professor in the Department of Surgery and a UToledo Health neurosurgeon,
discusses how deep brain stimulation, a procedure offered only by UTMC in northwest
Ohio, can treat movement disorders like Parkinson's disease and essential tremor.
Ask the Experts: New Technology Makes Treating Veins and Arteries Less Invasive
Dr. Munier Nazzal, professor in the Department of Surgery and a UToledo Health vascular surgeon, discusses
common vascular diseases and advancements in treatment, including new bioprinting
technology at UToledo Health that uses a patient’s own fat cells to accelerate healing.
Ask the Experts: Getting to the Root of Intestinal Problems can be Complex
Dr. Benjamin Hart, assistant professor in the Department of Medicine and a UToledo Health gastroenterologist,
explains common GI issues such as irritable bowel syndrome and discusses the brain’s
role in digestive health.
Ask The Experts: Radiation Oncologist Discusses the Field
Dr. Mersiha Hadziahmetovic, associate professor and chair in the Department of Radiation Oncology and a UToledo
Health radiation oncologist, explains how radiation therapy is used to treat cancer
and talks about how the field has advanced in recent years.
Sneeze Guard: How Diet Can Help You Recover Faster from Colds and the Flu
Dr. Joan Duggan, professor in the Department of Medicine and an infectious disease specialist at
UToledo Health, and Kristin Huntsman, clinical supervisor in the Department of Medicine
and a UToledo Health clinical dietitian, discuss how malnutrition can make it harder
for your body to fight off infection.
Ask the Experts: Surgeon Addresses Various Transplant Procedures
Dr. Kunal Yadav, assistant professor in the Department of Urology and a UToledo Health transplant
surgeon, discusses the health system’s addition of pancreas transplant services earlier
this year and explains the need for increasing the number of organs available for
transplant.
Ask The Experts: Radiation Oncologist Discusses the Field
Dr. Mersiha Hadziahmetovic, associate professor and chair in the Department of Radiation Oncology and a UToledo
Health radiation oncologist, explains how radiation therapy is used to treat cancer
and talks about how the field has advanced in recent years.
Sneeze Guard: How Diet Can Help You Recover Faster from Colds and the Flu
Dr. Joan Duggan, professor in the Department of Medicine and an infectious disease specialist at
UToledo Health, and Kristin Huntsman, a UToledo Health clinical dietitian, discuss how malnutrition can make it harder
for your body to fight off infection.
Ask the Experts: Treatment of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Can be Complicated
Dr. Tanvir Singh, a UToledo Health psychiatrist, explains how parents and other caregivers can differentiate
between normal moodiness and treatable mental health conditions.
Coronavirus Boosters are Here, and Medical Experts Stand Behind the Vaccines
Dr. Michael Ellis, a UToledo Health infectious disease specialist and chief medical officer at the
University of Toledo Medical Center, discusses the importance of vaccination against
COVID-19, especially for those at higher risk of serious disease.
Study Suggests Leaded Gasoline’s Legacy May Contribute to Dementia Today
Dr. Dionis Kononov, a UToledo Health psychiatrist, discusses how we’re still learning about the long-term
impact of lead exposure.
Ask the Expert: Early Treatment Key to Protect Heart Function
Dr. George Moukarbel, professor in the Department of Medicine and a UToledo Health cardiologist, discusses
how people can improve their heart health and talks about treatment options for heart
failure and atrial fibrillation.
In the Trenches: UToledo’s Medical Labs Strive to Research Issues that Matter
Dr. Jennifer Hill, professor in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, and Dr. Kandace Williams, professor in the Department of Cancer Biology and Senior Associate Dean of Graduate
Programs, discuss the University’s biomedical research program.
Ask the Expert: Colorectal Surgeon Expresses Importance of Colonoscopies for Young
and Old
Dr. Stephanie Pannell, associate professor in the Department of Surgery and a UToledo Health colorectal
surgeon, explains her work and talks about the significance of cancer screening.
Hunger Pangs: When Your Appetite Calls, Health Experts Say You Should Answer
Dr. Srini Hejeebu, professor in the Department of Medicine and a UToledo Health internal medicine specialist,
discusses common causes of appetite loss including drugs, alcohol, stress and hormone
changes.
Ask an Expert: ER Physicians Navigate Medicine's Most Unpredictable Environments
Dr. Mohammad Moussa, associate professor in the Department of Emergency Medicine and a UToledo Health
emergency medicine specialist, discusses his work treating patients with a variety
of issues including broken bones, shortness of breath and high blood pressure.
UToledo Researchers Want More Volunteers for Airborne Toxin Study That’s a First of
its Kind
Dr. David Kennedy, professor in the Department of Medicine, discusses UToledo's Great Lakes Aerosol
Monitoring Research Project to identify the health effects of airborne microcystin
exposure in individuals who spend significant time near Lake Erie.
Ask the Expert: Orthopaedic Surgeon Specializes in Hand Surgery, Carpal Tunnel
Dr. Martin Skie, professor and chair in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and a UToledo Health
orthopaedic surgeon, discusses treatment options for carpal tunnel syndrome.
Device Puts Fat Cells to Good Use in Healing Chronic Wounds at UToledo Health
Dr. Munier Nazzal, professor in the Department of Surgery and a UToledo Health vascular surgeon, discusses
a newly available treatment for chronic wounds that uses a patient’s own fat cells
to accelerate healing.
Ask the Experts: Medicine Moves to a More Personalized Approach to Manage Cancer
Dr. Natalie Rizk, assistant professor in the Department of Surgery and a UToledo Health breast surgical
oncologist, explains the recommended screening guidelines and the preventive actions
women can take to reduce their risk of breast cancer.
At UToledo Health, Clinical Trials Test and Battle Aggressive Cancers
Dr. Danae Hamouda, associate professor in the Department of Medicine and a UToledo Health oncologist,
discusses the purpose and parameters of clinical trials that advance new cancer treatments
and the participation of patients and doctors at UTMC.
Ask the Experts: Oral, Maxillofacial Surgery Calls for Skill, Experience of an Expert
Surgeon
Dr. Eric Carlson, professor in the Department of Surgery and a UToledo Health oral and maxillofacial
surgeon, discusses his work treating benign and malignant tumors of the head and neck
region and the exceptional resources at UTMC.
Photo Gallery: University of Toledo White Coat Ceremony
The College of Medicine and Life Sciences welcomed a new class of medical students
on Friday, July 25, with a white coat ceremony.
When Suffering From a Dislocated Bone, Experts Say a ‘Do-it-Yourself’ Fix is Unwise
Dr. Jacob Miller, assistant professor in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and a UToledo Health
orthopaedic surgeon, discusses the symptoms and treatment for dislocated joints.
Library Book Clubs Can Delay Cognitive Decline, Improve Overall Well-Being
Dr. Luisa Corpuz, assistant professor in the Department of Family Medicine and a UToledo Health family
and geriatric medicine specialist, discusses the value of social activities in building
cognitive reserve and delaying symptoms of dementia.
Mild to Moderate Algal Blooms Predicted for Western Lake Erie
Dr. David Kennedy, professor in the Department of Medicine, discussed the UToledo-led Great Lakes Aerosol
Monitoring Research Study with regional colleagues engaged in harmful algal bloom
research during an annual event at Gibraltar Island.
UToledo Assistant Professor Focuses Autism Research on Pesticide
Dr. James Burkett, assistant professor in the Department of Neurosciences and Psychiatry, talks about
the growing evidence that environmental factors play a significant role in the increase
of autism diagnoses and his own ongoing research into a class of pesticides called
pyrethroids.
CampMed Gives High Schoolers a Taste of Healthcare Jobs
Courtney K. Combs, director of the UToledo and Ohio Area Health Education Center programs, Dr. Paul Schaefer, professor in the Department of Family Medicine and a UToledo Health family medicine
specialist, and students participating in CampMed discuss the two-day program that
offers a hands-on look at potential careers in medicine.
Local students bring life-saving care on medical mission trip to Tanzania
Second-year medical student Rogelio Martinez Aguilar helped organize and recruit for Humanity First USA’s inaugural medical mission trip
to Tanzania. (photo available)
Shingles Vaccine Reduces Risk of Dementia, Cardiovascular Events, New Studies Find
Dr. Luisa Corpuz, assistant professor in the Department of Family Medicine and a UToledo Health family
and geriatric medicine specialist, explains the potential benefits of the shingles
vaccine beyond preventing a painful rash.
Area Woman Fulfills Childhood Dream of Becoming Doctor at 41
Dr. Amy Waters, who graduated with her M.D. on May 16, talks about her long path to medical school.
Health Officials Urge Public to Wear Seat Belts as Memorial Day Approaches
UToledo Health’s Dr. Alastair Hoyt, Kristin Calkins, Angela Castillo and Kylee Palicki discuss the importance of seat belts in preventing or mitigating serious injuries
in vehicle collisions.
With upcoming graduation, Sim family continues tradition of careers in health care
M.D. graduate Julianna Sim continues her family's remarkable legacy in healthcare. She was hooded by her grandmother,
Dr. Lily Sim, believed to be Toledo Hospital's first pediatric resident and a longtime
medical missionary. Julianna begins working in June at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit.
(photo available)
Photo Gallery: University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences commencement
Graduates took to UToledo's Savage Arena for the College of Medicine and Life Sciences
commencement ceremony at the University of Toledo on Friday.
UToledo Health to Offer New Dementia Care Model
UToledo Health is one of the first organizations in the state to take part in a new
nationwide federal program aimed at improving the care of individuals with dementia
while offering education and support to their family caregivers.
3 to Receive Honorary Degrees From UToledo
Steven Klar and Dr. S. Amjad Hussain received a doctor of humane letters, honoris causa, during undergraduate commencement
ceremonies this weekend, and Dr. Reshma Jagsi is set to receive a doctor of science, honoris causa, at the medical college commencement
on Friday, May 16.
An Unexpected Job Loss May Result in Psychological Challenges
Dr. Victoria Kelly, assistant professor in the Department of Neurosciences and Psychiatry and a UToledo
Health psychiatrist, discusses the mental health toll of losing a job and provides
tips on getting through the challenging time.
The Prickly Pain of Peripheral Neuropathy Requires Investigative Skills
Dr. Sabeena Malik, assistant professor in the Department of Neurology, explains the causes and symptoms
of peripheral neuropathy, which affects nerves outside the brain and spinal cord and
can cause numbness, tingling and pain.
‘Healthy’ Soda Alternatives Loved by Celebrities Contain Ingredient Linked to Cancer
Dr. Matam Vijay-Kumar, professor in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, discusses his research
into the potential carcinogenic effect of inulin, a popular dietary fiber supplement.
UToledo Experts Studying How Airborne Algal Toxins Can Get Into Our Bodies, Seek Public’s
Help
Dr. Steven Haller and Dr. David Kennedy, both associate professors in the Department of Medicine, talk about a study they’re
leading to assess how airborne algal toxins may impact the health of those near Lake
Erie.
UToledo Medical Students Find Their Match, Look Ahead to Future
UToledo Interim President Matt Schroeder, Dean Imran Ali and Dr. Randall Worth, senior associate dean for student affairs and admissions, joined fourth-year medical
students in celebrating Match Day on Friday, March 21.
Coach, Athletic Director Recipient of UTMC’s 1st Pancreas Transplant
Dr. Kunal Yadav, assistant professor in the Department of Urology and a UToledo Health transplant
surgeon and director of the new pancreas transplant program, and Taylor Iceman, who received a kidney and pancreas transplant Feb. 12, discuss the life-changing
procedure.
Springing ahead and falling behind: Sleep loss one of many daylight saving effects
Dr. Andre Aguillon, assistant professor in the Department of Medicine and a UToledo Health sleep medicine
specialist, discusses light as a regulator of circadian rhythm and how the shift to
daylight savings time can affect our health.
Renal 9-1-1: UTMC, Ohio State among leaders in kidney transplants
Dr. Obi Ekwenna, associate professor in the Department of Urology and a UToledo Health transplant
and urologic surgeon, talks about UTMC’s kidney transplant program and the potential
of new advancements in transplanting organs from genetically modified pigs.
Local emergency rooms, urgent care centers filling with patients amid flu surge
Dr. William Saunders, assistant professor in the Department of Emergency Medicine and a UToledo Health
emergency medicine specialist, discusses the increase in patients with flu symptoms
who are being treated at the University of Toledo Medical Center.
3 interim deans become permanent at UToledo
Interim President Matt Schroeder and Interim Provost Scott Molitor commend Dr. Imran Ali of the College of Medicine and Life Sciences, Dr. Mohammad Elahinia of the College of Engineering and Rebecca Zietlow of the College of Law.
Synaptic Storm: When Brain Cells Go into Overdrive, Epileptic Seizures Can Occur
Dr. Imran Ali, dean of the College of Medicine and Life Sciences and a board-certified neurologist,
discusses some of the treatment options for epilepsy.
Toledo Free Press
Behind the Byline: Dr. David Kennedy on Algal Blooms
Dr. David Kennedy, associate professor in the Department of Medicine, discusses UToledo's research
into the health effects of harmful algal blooms ahead of a free, public lecture at
the Lake Erie Center on Thursday, March 27.
Millions of Birds Killed to Fight Bird Flu
Dr. Joan Duggan, professor in the Department of Medicine and a UToledo Health infectious diseases
specialist, discusses concerns surrounding the evolution and spread of avian influenza.
WTOL 11
- VIDEO: Dr. Mersiha Hadziahmetovic, associate professor and chair in the Department of Radiation Oncology and a UToledo Health radiation oncologist, discusses the importance of mammograms and advances in breast cancer treatment.
- VIDEO: Dr. David Kennedy, professor in the Department of Medicine, and Dr. Steven Haller, associate professor in the Department of Medicine, discuss a study investigating the potential health effects of airborne algal toxins in volunteers who live or work near Lake Erie.
- VIDEO: Joshua Cabacungan, a first-year medical student at UToledo, talks about the excitement of the college’s annual white coat ceremony.
- VIDEO: Kailey Kilgore, a student in UToledo’s Physician Assistant Studies Program, discusses a recent skills simulation the program hosted to highlight the work of physician assistants.
- VIDEO: Dr. Steven Haller and Dr. David Kennedy, researchers in the Department of Medicine, talk about their research into harmful algal blooms, including a study assessing how airborne toxins may impact the health of those living and working near Lake Erie.
- VIDEO: Dr. Natalie Rizk, assistant professor in the Department of Surgery and a UToledo Health breast surgical oncologist, and cancer survivor Ryan Cunningham talk with WTOL 11 about the impact of cancer and the support offered by UToledo Health at a Monday celebration of cancer survivors.
- VIDEO: Dr. Alisa Roberts, assistant professor in the Department of Emergency Medicine, discusses a unique opportunity for UToledo’s emergency medicine residents to receive hands-on training from first responders.
- VIDEO: Kyla Johnson discusses her experience at Match Day on Friday, March 21, when she was one of more than 150 fourth-year medical students to learn where they would spend the next three to seven years in residency training.
- VIDEO: Dr. Kunal Yadav, assistant professor in the Department of Urology and a UToledo Health transplant surgeon, explains the benefits of pancreas transplants and how the procedure can complement kidney transplants in patients with Type 1 diabetes.
Faculty & Staff News:
Faculty and Staff Recognition Awards
We are honored to present the 2025 College of Medicine & Life Sciences Faculty and Staff Recognition Awards. Join us in recognizing these faculty and staff members. You can view the list, along with reading their nominator notes, on our dedicated webpage.
Bridge Funding Awards
We are pleased to announce the recipients of Bridge Funding Awards for the 2025-2026 fiscal year within the College of Medicine and Life Sciences. After a rigorous review process, the following individuals have been selected for their outstanding research and potential for future funding.
- Ivana de la Serna, Associate Professor, Department of Cell and Cancer Biology
- Ipe Ninan, Associate Professor, Department of Neurosciences and Psychiatry
Faculty members celebrate milestone anniversaries with UToledo
Please join us in congratulating two esteemed faculty members on remarkable milestone anniversaries with The University of Toledo! Dr. Basil Akpunonu, professor and chair of the Department of Medicine, recently celebrated 40 years of dedicated service. Colleagues and leaders commend Dr. Akpunonu for his enduring loyalty to his patients, his students and to University of Toledo Physicians. Dr. Amira Gohara, dean emerita and professor and chair in the Department of Pathology, recently celebrated her 50th anniversary with UToledo. A trailblazer and inspiration to many, Dr. Gohara’s decades of service, leadership and mentorship have left an indelible mark on the College of Medicine and Life Sciences.
Graduate Medical Education celebrates Professionals Day, recognizes staff with awards
Our Office of Graduate Medical Education (GME) recently celebrated GME Professionals Day with a luncheon and awards ceremony. Our GME office honored the following staff members with recognition awards on GME Professionals Day:
- Sparkle Award: Claudia Davis
Sparkle Award is given to an individual who has put in extra effort to improve their professional, communication, and organizational skills. This recipient has taken the initiative to focus on improving the organization of the residency office and is an invaluable member of their program. - Commitment to Innovation and Collaboration Award: Teri Acton
The Commitment to Innovation and Collaboration Award is given to an individual whose achievements promote residency excellence through extraordinary innovation including collaboration with fellow coordinators. Contributions can take many forms and may include a significant role in the implementation and effective delivery of highly innovative and collaborative ideas that helps the role of a Coordinator. - Commitment to Succeed Award: Angie McCune
The Commitment to Succeed Award is given to an individual that demonstrates a passion for success through a foundation of personal integrity, hard work, and unwavering determination. This individual recognizes that perseverance, hard work, and dedication is the bedrock of achievement. - Commitment to Excellence Award: Wendy Gobbell
Commitment to Excellence Award is given to an individual that demonstrates a dedication to their work, which in turns contributes to the vibrancy of their program. This recipient demonstrates outstanding work commitment to the programs, provides excellent service to the residents, faculty, and colleagues, upholds the values of graduate medical education, shares enthusiasm and dedication for the position, maintains perseverance in the face of adversity, and collaborates with others to enrich graduate medical education. - Coordinators’ Choice Award (Team Player): Kelly Kovacs
Selected by the coordinators, the Coordinators’ Choice Award is given to an individual who has been recognized by his/her peers as going above and beyond, has a positive impact on morale, considered a reliable “go-to” person who enriches graduate medical education, serves a role model to others, and maintains a positive attitude even through adversity.
Dr. Schaefer named Family Medicine interim chair
Dr. Paul Schaefer has accepted the position of Interim Chair in the Department of Family Medicine, effective Aug. 14. Dr. Schaefer earned his medical degree from The University of Toledo (then Medical College of Ohio), where he also completed an accelerated residency in Family Medicine. Prior to medical school, he earned his Ph.D. in Neuroscience and Behavior at Case Western Reserve University. Dr. Schaefer is a professor here in the Department of Family Medicine, having joined the department in 2006.
College expands support for medical student research with new program manager role
Please join us in welcoming Seth Schulte, our new Program Manager for Medical Student Research for the College of Medicine and Life Sciences.
Seth shares with us: “I’m thrilled to be back home in Ohio and to join the College of Medicine and Life Sciences as the Program Manager for Medical Student Research. I came here from the FDA as a regulatory reviewer and have prior experience in academia working in environmental health and infectious disease research as well as in nonprofit manufacturing facilities working in gene therapy quality control and cancer organoid model development. In this role, I look forward to using my experience in those laboratory settings to serve as a resource for all medical students to increase their access to research opportunities and support their participation in research as they prepare for residency and successful careers as physicians.”
College expands support for Graduate Admissions with new coordinator role
Please join us in welcoming Alex Geisel, our new Graduate Admissions Coordinator for the College of Medicine and Life Sciences. Alex shares with us: “I’m excited to join the College of Medicine and Life Sciences as the Graduate Programs Admission Coordinator. With a background in enrollment management and strategic recruitment, I have successfully increased engagement, applications and enrollment in previous roles at The University of Toledo and St. John’s Jesuit High School. In this role, I will serve as a key resource for applicants, ensuring a smooth admissions process by providing personalized customer support and resolving any application-related challenges.”
Department of Medicine honors faculty with its annual Mentoring and Teaching Awards
The Department of Medicine held its annual Department of Medicine Chair's Mentoring and Faculty Teaching Awards at Medicine Grand Rounds. The faculty mentoring and teaching award was established to honor outstanding mentoring and teaching faculty in the Department of Medicine, including our community-based faculty and PPG practitioner faculty.
This year’s recipients are:
- Dr. Ahmad Abdelwahed, PPG Faculty, for teaching
- Dr. Yaseen Alastal, Assistant Professor, for mentoring
- Dr. Caitlyn Hollingshead, Assistant Professor, for teaching
Dr. Michael McCrea and Dr. Ravi Narra, were named the 2025 Integrated Clinical Experience (ICE) Faculty Members of the Year by the Department of Medical Education. This prestigious award recognizes exceptional faculty who demonstrate a sustained commitment to excellence in clinical education and mentorship through the Integrated Clinical Experience (ICE) program. Honorees are nominated by current medical students and selected for their teaching excellence and commitment to student growth and mentorship.
Faculty recognized for tenure and promotion
The University of Toledo Board of Trustees approved 56 faculty members for promotion and tenure at its April meeting, including several in the College of Medicine and Life Sciences. Read more in UToledo News.
Additional Accomplishments
Alex Geisel, Graduate Admissions Coordinator for the College of Medicine and Life Sciences, recently represented The University of Toledo at the 2025 SACNAS NDiSTEM Conference in Columbus. The annual NDiSTEM (National Diversity in STEM) Conference, hosted by the Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics & Native Americans in Science (SACNAS), is the nation’s leading multicultural and multidisciplinary STEM gathering. The event brings together thousands of students, professionals, educators and mentors for a transformative experience centered on science, culture and community.
Dr. Xiaohong Li, associate professor in the Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, was invited to serve as a guest speaker for the “Hallmarks of Cancer” seminar series at the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) in Jackson, Mississippi. Her presentation was titled “Impact of Bone Microenvironment on Prostate Cancer Dormancy, Metastasis, and Therapeutic Resistance.” Dr. Li’s invitation came from Dr. Seema Singh, associate director of education and training at UMMC’s Cancer Center and Research Institute and professor of cell and molecular biology, who also hosted her visit. The event highlighted Dr. Li’s ongoing contributions to cell and cancer biology research and her collaborations within the national scientific community.
Dr. Carolina Wishner, Director of the Interprofessional Education Program and Associate Dean for Inclusion and Opportunity, was elected to the Board of Directors of the Ohio Interprofessional Consortium (OIC). She has also been appointed as co-chair of the Faculty Development Committee within the organization. These leadership appointments recognize Dr. Wishner’s dedication to advancing interprofessional education and highlight The University of Toledo’s statewide leadership in fostering collaboration across health professions.
Dr. Sanjoy Banerjee, associate professor in the Department of Pediatrics and Division Director of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, recently visited Amrita Hospital in Faridabad, India, located in the New Delhi metro area. Amrita Hospital, Asia’s largest hospital, is a state-of-the-art facility with 2,600 beds, as well as an affiliated medical school, nursing school and postgraduate training programs. As part of his visit, Dr. Banerjee delivered a master class grand rounds presentation, “The Coming Wave of Chronic Pediatric GI Disorders in India: Time for a Gut Check.” He also joined the pediatric team for hospital rounds, toured the expansive campus and met with administrators. His participation underscores the importance of international collaboration and knowledge sharing in advancing pediatric care and addressing the growing burden of chronic GI disorders in children.
Dr. Jeremy Laukka, Senior Associate Dean for Undergraduate Medical Education and professor in the Department of Medical Education, who has been invited to extend his membership on the U.S. Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) Gross Anatomy and Embryology Test Material Development Committee (TMDC) through 2026.
Dr. Jyl Matson, associate professor in the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, was selected to serve as a University of Toledo Fellow in the Mid-American Conference (MAC) Academic Leadership Development Program (ALDP) for the 2025-2026 academic year. The MAC-ALDP is a professional development program, created as a collaboration between the 13 MAC schools and the MAC.
James A. Molnar, Supervisor of Web & Digital Media in the Dean’s Office, was elected Vice Chair, Communications, Community Relations and Marketing on the steering committee for the Group on Institutional Advancement (GIA) of the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC).
Dr. Viviana Ferreira, professor from the Departments of Medical Education and Medical Microbiology and Immunology, was appointed Vice Chair of the American Association of Immunologists (AAI) Education Committee, after serving one year as a member of the same committee.
Dr. Bindu Menon, associate professor in the Department of Medical Education, completed her second year as volunteer faculty for the Harvard Macy Institute Program for Educators in Health Professions, an internationally recognized program affiliated with Harvard Medical School. Dr. Menon first joined the program as a scholar in 2022-23, based on her project proposal “Longitudinal Implementation of Self-Directed Learning Across the Undergraduate Medical School Curriculum.” That initiative has since been incorporated into the current M1 curriculum at UToledo.
Dr. Mohamad Moussa, associate professor in the Department of Emergency Medicine, served as an oral examiner at the American Board of Emergency Medicine (ABEM) Virtual Oral Examination this spring. Being an ABEM oral examiner not only requires putting other responsibilities on hold and devotion of multiple days to the examination process, but also demands a high level of expertise and dedication to the specialty.
Dr. Tao Yang, assistant professor in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, was elected this spring as a Fellow of the American Heart Association (FAHA) conferred by the Council on Hypertension of the American Heart Association. The fellowship recognizes outstanding and sustained scientific contributions in hypertension and cardiovascular disease and volunteer leadership and service to the American Heart Association or international society.
Dr. Deepa Mukundan, professor and chair in the Department of Pediatrics, was selected to serve on the Clinical Care Committee of the Association of Medical School Pediatric Department Chairs (AMSPDC). This national committee strives to share best practices and approaches to new challenges in an effort to promote access to high quality care for all children. Dr. Mukundan will serve for two years on the committee, 2025 to 2027, with the opportunity to serve a second term. In this role, she will participate in regular meetings and contribute to medical education-related projects and strategic initiatives.
Dr. Noor Pirzada accepted the position of Clair Martig Endowed Chair in the Department of Neurology in June. He had been serving as Interim Chair since August 2024. Dr. Pirzada earned his medical degree from Government Medical College in Kashmir, India. He completed a neurology residency at Drexel University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and a fellowship in EMG and neuromuscular medicine at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina. Dr. Pirzada joined our faculty in 1996 and currently serves as professor in the Department of Neurology. He has been program director of the neurology residency since 1998 and has been instrumental in not only developing a residency program but making it one of the institution’s best programs. He is also director of the EMG lab and head of the neuromuscular section.
Dr. Jiayong Liu, associate professor in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery, was among three University of Toledo faculty members to successfully complete the Mid-American Conference (MAC) Academic Leadership Development Program (ALDP). The program is designed to identify, develop, prepare and advance academic leaders from across the 12 MAC institutions. Participants in the ALDP engage in a yearlong series of campus-based and MAC-wide activities focused on leadership in higher education, including intensive workshops, mentoring and cross-institutional collaboration.
Dr. Shaza Aouthmany, Associate Dean in the Office of Graduate Medical Education (GME), completed the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) GME Leadership Development Certificate Program. This prestigious program is designed for institutional GME leaders and includes training in educational leadership, regulatory compliance and learner well-being.
Ann Murphy was appointed Senior Administrator, Operations & Strategy for the UTCOMLS Dean’s office, effective July 7. Ann began her UToledo (MCO/MUO) career in 2001 as a Human Resources intern. Upon graduation from BGSU, she was hired into the Human Resources Department. In 2003 she advanced to the Department of Neurology where she has served as Department Administrator for the past 22 years and has successfully overseen the academic and clinical operations of the department. She has been instrumental in supporting the successful academic affiliation, integration of neurological services and growth of the department over the last decade.
James A. Molnar, Supervisor of Web & Digital Media in the Dean's Office, joined institutional advancement colleagues within the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) community at their annual conference in New Orleans in April. At the conference, James hosted the annual film festival, showcasing a curated selection of videos from medical schools and academic medical centers nationwide, including a video he produced for UToledo. Additionally, James co-presented a session, titled "Digital Newsletter Bootcamp 2.0: From Compelling Content to Data-Driven Insights," with Nick McGregor from University of Utah Health. He also served on a panel discussion, titled "How to Make Great Video with Content You Already Have," with speakers from Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Eastern Virginia Medical School. James played a significant role in organizing this national conference, serving as the marketing chair on the steering committee.
Blair Mell, senior research associate in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, and Dr. Hoda Shabpiray, assistant professor in the Department of Medicine, were both awarded the University Women's Commission Outstanding Woman Award 2025. The University Women's Commission was formally established in 1981 in the interest of offering women a forum for providing and obtaining assistance in career advancement and serving as a locale where women could meet to discuss and share information on issues and concerns of common interest. This commission provides a support system for all women and serve as a network of alliances for all women on the University of Toledo campuses.
Dr. Eric R. Carlson joined our faculty as Associate Dean for Faculty Development and Affairs in May. Dr. Carlson comes to the University of Toledo from the University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville where he served as Professor and Kelly L. Krahwinkel Endowed Chair of the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery since 2002. Dr. Carlson is board certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon. Dr. Carlson specializes in head and neck oncologic and reconstructive surgery.
Dr. Jyl Matson, associate professor in the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, and Dr. Viviana Ferreira, associate professor from the Departments of Medical Education and of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, participated as speaker and co-chair, respectively, at the American Association of Immunologists (AAI) Webinar, titled "Science for the Next Generation: Reaching Young Audiences."
Dr. Kate Szymanski, assistant professor in the Department of Family Medicine, was recognized by the National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners (NBOME) for her scholarly contributions during the fourth quarter of 2024. She participated in the COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE Item Writing Workshop, where she helped develop content for national licensing assessments.
Dr. Jeremy Laukka, Senior Associate Dean for Undergraduate Medical Education, was appointed to a three-year term on the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) Medical Education Senior Leaders (MESL) Steering Committee. In this national role, Dr. Laukka will help shape the strategic direction of the MESL community, participate in monthly virtual meetings and attend in-person gatherings in conjunction with MESL events. He will also engage in quarterly orientation sessions for new members and represent the Steering Committee on various subcommittees, including Mentoring and Surveys, to support MESL's broader goals.
Dr. Benjamin White, assistant professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, received the 2024 Excellence in Teaching Award from the Association of Professors of Gynecology and Obstetrics (APGO).
Dr. Lakshminarayan Teegala, an instructor working with Dr. Sailaja Paruchuri in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, was selected for the prestigious American Heart Association Career Development Award (AHA-CDA). His application ranked within an extraordinary 0.56 percentile, demonstrating the exceptional merit of his research proposal. This three-year grant, totalling $231,000, will provide crucial support for his research and facilitate his successful transition to an independent career.
Joseph Osinski, Clerkship and Curriculum Coordinator in the Department of Pediatrics, was selected by the Class of 2025 as the recipient of the Outstanding Clerkship Coordinator Award.
Dr. Eric Pam, third-year resident in the Department of Pediatrics, was recognized with the ROSE Award, recognizing service and excellence. He is the first resident to receive this award, which honors his dedication to providing outstanding care and exceptional customer service.
Dr. Michael Rees, professor in the Departments of Urology and Pathology and a transplant surgeon and surgical director of UTMC’s kidney transplant program, was named Distinguished University Professor in March in recognition of his exemplary achievements in teaching, research, scholarship and professional service.
Dr. Bindu Menon, associate professor in the Department of Medical Education, was selected as a member of the American Association of Medical Colleges’ (AAMC) Group on Educational Affairs’ (GEA) National Grants Committee. She is part of an eight-person committee representing the four regions of GEA, which oversees the national grant initiatives funded by the AAMC.
Dr. Lauren Koch, associate professor in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, was appointed as the new chair of the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC). Her appointment was effective in January and is for a three-year term through January 2028, with the possibility of extension.
Dr. Charles “Chuck” Callahan, a clinical psychologist and experienced healthcare CEO, joined UToledo in February as its first Executive Vice President for Health Affairs to lead the institution’s clinical enterprise. Dr. Callahan is board certified in rehabilitation psychology and is a Fellow of the American Psychological Association and the American College of Healthcare Executives. Read more in UToledo News.
Dr. Viviana Ferreira, associate professor in the Departments of Medical Education and of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, was invited to serve a three-year term (2024-2027) on the American Association of Immunologists (AAI) Education Committee.
Mary Ann Schuster, department administrator 1 in the Department of Cell and Cancer Biology, received the University of Toledo Outstanding Staff Award at the beginning of the year. Mary Ann has been a dedicated member of the University (then the Medical College of Ohio) since 1989 and has served the department with unwavering commitment since 2006. One of the nominating comments highlighted Mary Ann's dedication and positivity: "Mary Ann is a committed 35-year employee at UT COMLS. Always a positive role model committed to our University and creating a positive work environment for all faculty, staff and students. She consistently conducts herself in a professional manner with a positive attitude."
Dr. Xiaohong Li, associate professor in the Department of Cell & Cancer Biology, was appointed by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Center for Scientific Review to serve as a standing member of the Tumor Evolution, Heterogeneity and Metastasis (TEHM) study section for a four-year term, starting July 1.
Alumni:
Homecoming
Our alumnus Dr. Harry S. Clarke ’84 ’87 received the 2025 College of Medicine and Life Sciences Distinguished Alumni. Dr. Harry S. Clarke, Jr. earned his B.S. in Biology from Moravian University (Bethlehem, PA) in 1972. He received his Ph.D. in Medical Sciences/Radiology (1984) and his M.D. (1987) from the University of Toledo (MCO), where he also completed his residency in Urology. He is certified by the American Board of Urology and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.
He also delivered our Distinguished Alumni Grand Rounds, presenting “A Paradigm Shift in Cancer Treatment: From Blunt Tools to Precision Medicine.”
Alumni visit campus, deliver grand rounds
In September, we hosted Honored Alumni Grand Rounds with Dr. Harry W. Haverkos ’76. He presented “Inside the AIDS Fight: Memoir of an Epidemiologist at the Pandemic Front Lines.” In his investigations of the disease with the CDC’s Epidemic Intelligence Service, the U.S. Public Health Service, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, his research allowed for the implementation of preventative measures against the transmission of HIV and AIDS. Dr. Haverkos’ work not only achieved medical advancements but also profoundly affected the AIDS pandemic; his research and collaborations with other medical professionals impacted health policy, medical research, legal and judicial perceptions, and patient self- advocacy.
In February, we hosted Dr. Michael Mikhail ’95 ’98, from Mayo Clinic. He presented “Perioperative Management of Obesity: Essentials to Optimize Outcomes.” Dr. Mikhail is an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science. He also serves as a Consultant in the Division of General Internal Medicine, the Pre-Surgical Medical Evaluation Clinic, and the Section of Executive and International Medicine at the Mayo Clinic. Dr. Mikhail completed his undergraduate at the University of Michigan and his medical school at the then-Medical College of Ohio in 1995. His residency training was completed at the Medical College of Ohio in 1998. He furthered his training and completed a fellowship in an Advanced General Internal Medicine Program at the Mayo Clinic.
In January, we hosted Honored Alumni Grand Rounds with Dr. William H. Sharfman '82, from Johns Hopkins. He presented “The first 15 years of modern immunotherapy for Melanoma: data, anecdotes, and future challenges.” Dr. Sharfman is the Mary Jo Rogers Professor of Cancer Immunology and Melanoma Research, along with Associate Professor of Oncology and Dermatology at the Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins and Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. He graduated from the then-Medical College of Ohio in 1982, and completed his Internal Medicine residency at Cleveland Clinic Foundation.
Alumni Spotlight: Dr. Kevin E. Elder ’99
Dr. Kevin E. Elder, a 1999 graduate of the College of Medicine and Life Sciences, serves as a physician for the U.S. Men’s National Soccer Team (USMNT) and the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Team. He was recently profiled by BayCare Medical Group. Dr. Elder’s path to the national stage began with a sports medicine fellowship and led to serving as team physician for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from 2009 to 2014. He now plays a key role in supporting elite athletes' health and performance at the highest level. In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Elder teaches at the University of South Florida, Florida State University, and South University.
UToledo Health News:
UToledo Health expands treatment options for major depression
Dr. Robert Smith, center, demonstrates UToledo Health’s new transcranial stimulation therapy machine with TMS clinical coordinator Michelle Harris, seated, and Rosalyn Morehead, the outpatient clinical supervisor for psychiatry.
UToledo Health is now offering transcranial magnetic stimulation, an advanced, noninvasive therapy for treating major depressive disorder — particularly in patients who have not found relief through other treatment methods. Transcranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS, uses targeted pulses of magnetic energy to stimulate electrical activity in the brain. Over time, that stimulation helps nudge the brain to form new neural connections, regulating brain activity and reducing depressive symptoms.
“Depression is more than a period of sadness. It’s a significant health problem that can affect every part of a person’s life. It also can sometimes be challenging to treat,” said Dr. Robert Smith, professor and chair in the Department of Neurosciences and Psychiatry and a UToledo Health psychiatrist. “Many people do get better with medication and talk therapy, but for some patients, that isn’t enough. TMS gives us a completely different way to attack the problem.”
UToledo Health uses new tech to improve blood pressure accuracy and outcomes
At the UToledo Health Comprehensive Care Center, primary care providers are pairing new technology with good-old-fashioned education to ensure their patients get an accurate readout and receive the best possible care based on their individual numbers.
Automated machines that can take blood pressure measurements without a medical professional in the room help reduce patient anxiety and give doctors better data.
Dr. Mani Askari, assistant professor in the Department of Medicine and a UToledo Health internal medicine specialist, poses with an automated machine that can take blood pressure measurements.
UToledo Health debuts 3D-printed graft technology for chronic wound care
UToledo Health is one of the first healthcare systems in the country to treat chronic wounds using 3D printed grafts derived from a patient’s own fat cells. The technology, which has been approved in the U.S. marketplace for less than a year, has the potential to revolutionize care for individuals with non-healing wounds, said Dr. Munier Nazzal, professor in the Department of Surgery and a UToledo Health vascular surgeon.
"Most wounds heal on their own. It may take some time or require minor surgery, but most cuts and abrasions are eventually going to heal," said Dr. Nazzal, who is chief of the Division of Vascular, Endovascular Surgery and Wound Care at UTMC. "However, some wounds, particularly in patients with underlying medical conditions, fail to heal for months or even years. This technology is going to make a huge difference."
UToledo Health expands transplant program to include pancreas
UToledo Health has expanded its organ transplantation program to include pancreas transplants, building on the University of Toledo Medical Center’s long history as a premier kidney transplant center.
UTMC, which is northwest Ohio's only organ transplantation center, received approval to perform pancreas transplants in December and completed its first procedure in February.
VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pb58WFJxf_M
UToledo Health offers more precise breast cancer surgery
To advance its breast cancer program, UToledo Health has added an innovative new tool to remove cancerous tissue more precisely, allowing for shorter, more accurate procedures. The SmartClip, about the size of a grain of rice, can be placed days or weeks before surgery, removing the need for same-day wire placement.
"This is the best platform on the market," said Dr. Natalie Rizk, assistant professor in the Department of Surgery and a specialized breast surgeon who joined UToledo Health in December to lead the Eleanor N. Dana Cancer Center’s breast program. She helped bring the new technology into the operating room. "It makes it easier for the surgeon and the patient on the day of surgery. I can see the area of interest in real time, allowing for more precise tumor removal and often a shorter procedure. We are thrilled to be able to offer this to our patients."
UToledo Health to offer new dementia care model
UToledo Health is one of the first organizations in the state to take part in a new nationwide federal program aimed at improving the care of individuals with dementia while offering education and support to their family caregivers.
“We don’t currently have many options in terms of medications that can prevent or reverse the progress of dementia,” said Dr. Anu Garg, associate professor in the Department of Medicine and a board-certified geriatric medicine physician with UToledo Health. “What we can do, however, is improve our coordination of care and do a better job of educating and supporting caregivers to provide patients the best possible quality of life.”
UTMC Recognized Among Nation’s Most Socially Responsible Hospitals
The University of Toledo Medical Center has been recognized by the Lown Institute as one of the country’s most socially responsible hospitals. The independent healthcare think tank reviewed more than 2,700 acute care hospitals nationwide, using publicly available data to evaluate facilities based on metrics of health equity, value and patient outcomes.
In Memoriam:
Dr. David Coulter Allison
Dr. David C. Allison, professor emeritus of surgery, passed away July 17. He was 83. Dr. Allison joined the former Medical College of Ohio in 1992 as Chief of Surgery. He led the Advanced Microscopy Center beginning in 1996 and helped shape generations of surgeons, physicians and researchers through his teaching, mentorship and research in cellular biology. He retired in 2023. He will be remembered with gratitude and respect and the countless lives he touched. Read the full tribute.
Thurid Margrethe Campbell, D.D.S.
Thurid Margrethe Campbell, D.D.S., age 87, passed away peacefully on Dec. 31, 2024. In 1979, Thurid joined the Dental Department at then-Medical College of Ohio at Toledo (MCO), retiring as a Professor of Dentistry in 2007. While at MCO, her focus was on teaching geriatric dentistry, dentistry for mentally disabled children and adults, dental evaluation of patients requiring transplant surgery, performance of special dental procedures in hospital operating suites requiring anesthesia. Read the full tribute.
Dr. Alan Gardner Goodridge
Dr. Alan G. Goodridge, a noteworthy research biochemist, passed away peacefully following a short illness in Naples, Florida, on Aug. 8, surrounded by loved ones. He was 88. In 2002, Dr. Goodridge was appointed Provost of The University of Toledo. In 2007, he was recruited to become Provost and Acting President of Alfaisal University in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. He served here as Professor of Biochemistry and Cancer Biology from March 2009 until July 2017. Read the full tribute.
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