School of Health Professions News and Events

Research Day

• Date: Friday, Dec. 5, 2025
• Time: 9 – 11 a.m.
• Venue: Rayzor Lounge, Baylor College of Medicine

SHP Awards Ceremony

• Date: Friday, Dec. 5, 2025
• Time: 2 p.m.
• Venue: Cullen Auditorium  

Commencement (SHP)

• Date: Saturday, Dec. 6, 2025
• Time: 11 a.m.
• Venue: Community Collective for Houston, 12401 S. Post Oak Dr., 77045

Genetic Counseling Commencement (May)

• Date: May 21, 2026
• Time: 5:30 p.m.
• Venue: Smart Financial Center, Sugar Land, Texas 

When should I arrive?  

Students should be at their posters by 8:45 a.m.

What is the required format for posters?

Posters must be formatted 4x3 foot (horizontal). Posters should be finalized and turned in to Sarah Keyes by 9 a.m. on Nov. 24.

How will I know who is judging my poster?

Each presenter will be assigned 2–3 judges. Judges will be wearing a ribbon to indicate they are a judge.  

When and where will winners be announced?

Winners will be announced at Awards Ceremony.

What are the prizes?

Winning students will be recognized at the Annual Awards Ceremony at 2 p.m. in Cullen Auditorium, with certificates and monetary awards ($500, $250, $100).  

Who do I contact if I have questions?

• For Research Day questions, please contact Sarah Keyes.
• For Commencement Day questions, please contact Jeannette Adams. 

When should I arrive?

Graduates should arrive between 8:30-9 a.m. to check in, find their seat and participate in rehearsal. Rehearsal will begin at 9 a.m. Guests may begin arriving when doors open at 10 a.m.

Will there be professional pictures taken?

Yes, professional photographers will capture moments during the ceremony. Photos will be made available to graduates after the event.

Will the ceremony be livestreamed for family/friends?

Yes, the event will be livestreamed. The link will be posted on the SHP website.

What should I bring with me?

Bring your regalia (cap, gown, hood, tassel), and comfortable shoes.  Leave large bags or personal items with family members.

How will rehearsal go?

Rehearsal takes place right before the ceremony. Graduates will be walked through the process of lining up, crossing the stage, and receiving diplomas.

When does the event end?

The ceremony typically lasts 1 – 1.5 hours, ending around 1:30 p.m.  

When will I receive my diploma?

Typically around mid-January via mail.  

Where do I get my regalia?

Graduates may pick up regalia in SHP Suite M108. Details will be emailed in advance.

Where and how do I return my regalia?

Regalia should be returned onsite immediately after the ceremony, unless purchased. Return stations will be clearly marked. 

April 7, 2025

The School of Health Professions at Baylor College of Medicine hosted a Community Action Poverty Simulation workshop for its students March 26 in the McMillian Auditorium on the College’s Houston campus. 

CAPS’ interactive and immersive workshop uses a simulation kit to bridge the gap between the misconception and understanding of people from low-income backgrounds. For the three-hour workshop, students were grouped into families and roleplayed navigating the challenges of poverty for a month. 

After the simulation was completed, students reflected on their experiences and shared what they learned.

Amandi Rhett, assistant professor in the Orthotics and Prosthetics Program and assistant dean of community health for the School of Health Professions, organized and led the workshop. Rhett discovered CAPS while volunteering for its workshop with a health disparity clinical course in the School of Medicine. 

“The debrief session I led (for the course's) poverty simulation event was very impactful with regards to student feedback about their experiences,” Rhett said. “Students really honed in on the systemic issues involved in the lived experiences of persons living in poverty and how it would impact their future patients.”

The workshop included tables that represented community resources such as banks, schools and grocery stores, which the families visited. Baylor faculty and staff who volunteered for the workshop roleplayed as employees for the resource tables. The volunteers were required to attend three virtual training sessions about best practices for facilitating the workshop. 

Diana Rangel, coordinator for the School of Health Professions’ Physician Assistant Program, was among the volunteers for the workshop. Rangel said she decided to be part of the simulation because it’s important to understand the challenges underserved communities face. 

“This experience provides valuable insight into the barriers individuals encounter daily, fostering greater empathy and awareness,“ Rangel said. 

Dr. Todd Reinhart, dean of the School of Health Professions, said he enjoyed seeing how the workshop fostered a shared learning experience across the school and College’s communities. Reinhart wanted the workshop to help students become aware of how poverty affects some families, including those who will become their future patients.  

“This immersive opportunity offered a window into what some of our students' future patients might be experiencing and the value that empathy will have in their care,” Reinhart said. 

Tyson Tran, second-year Physician Assistant Program student, participated in the simulation to learn how he could better support patients facing poverty — an issue he witnessed as a medical assistant before enrolling at the College.

“The reason I decided to attend the Poverty Simulation is because, prior to being accepted at Baylor, I worked as a medical assistant at a county hospital where we saw a lot of homeless and low-income patients,” Tran said. “So, I wanted to attend the simulation to put myself in my patients’ shoes and become a more compassionate healthcare provider as a result.”

Learn more about CAPS' workshop.

Jan. 31, 2025

Baylor College of Medicine’s School of Health Professions welcomed Dr. Christopher “Chris” Hovorka and Dr. Irrum Fawad Niazi as its new assistant professors. Hovorka is an assistant professor for the school’s Orthotics and Prosthetics Program. Niazi is an assistant professor for the school’s foundational sciences courses. She is the first full-time member of the school to hold this position.

Hovorka has over 20 years of clinical and research experience in orthotic and prosthetic care. His academic interests range from cognitive and skills learning to the biomechanics and clinical outcomes of patients using lower limb prostheses, orthoses and footwear.

Throughout Hovorka’s career, he held leadership and teaching positions in orthotics and prosthetics at higher education institutions around the nation.

Hovorka served as an assistant professor and director at Midwestern University and East Tennessee State University. He was a program founder, director and senior lecturer for Georgia Institute of Technology. Before that, Hovorka served as department chair and assistant professor at St. Ambrose University. He also held appointments as an assistant professor for the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and the University of Pittsburgh.

“We are thrilled to have Dr. Hovorka join our team of faculty,” Dr. Ashley Mullen, program director and associate professor of the Orthotics and Prosthetics Program in the School of Health Professions, said. “He brings with him valuable experiences and strengths as an educator and researcher that will allow us to continue offering an incredible educational experience for our students."

Niazi also brings extensive experience to the School of Health Professions.

With a 28-year career as a clinician and appointed faculty member, Niazi’s professional background is rooted in neurology, physiology and obstetrics and gynecology. Her research spans from global health to rehabilitation medicine.

Niazi served as an assistant professor for Indiana University and Trine University. She also taught at Purdue University. Niazi held research positions for Parkview Mirro Center for Research and Innovation and Georgia Institute of Technology. Outside of academia, she worked with renowned international organizations such as the United States Agency for International Development and United Nations Population Fund on healthcare initiatives.

“Dr. Niazi's appointment represents a new opportunity for the School of Health Professions community,” Dr. Todd Reinhart, dean for the School of Health Professions, said. “She is the first full-time faculty member in the school dedicated to teaching the foundational sciences necessary to prepare our students with the knowledge and understanding to become exceptional clinicians.“

Hovorka’s appointment became effective Jan. 6. Niazi began her appointment Jan. 13.

Dec. 10, 2024

Baylor College of Medicine’s School of Health Professions honored its graduating students in the Orthotics and Prosthetics Program, Physician Assistant Program and Doctor of Nursing Practice Program – Nurse Anesthesia during its 2024 commencement ceremony Dec. 7 at the Community Collective for Houston.  

Dr. Todd Reinhart, dean for the School of Health Professions, conferred degrees for 24 orthotics and prosthetics students, 32 physician assistant students and 27 nurse anesthesia students.

One student in each program earned an award for representing their profession well.  

The Orthotics and Prosthetics Program awarded Delaney Schavey the Lucille Becker Clinical Achievement Award for demonstrating excellence, growth, innovation and commitment during clinical. Kimberly McIntosh in the Physician Assistant Program received the Henry D. McIntosh Award for achieving the highest degree of academic excellence and service. The Doctor of Nursing Practice Program – Nurse Anesthesia awarded David Yznaga the Agatha Hodgins CRNA Memorial Award for having the highest scholastic rank among his class.

Kevin Carroll, vice president of lower extremity prosthetics for Hanger Clinic, served as the keynote speaker for the ceremony. Carroll has over 30 years of experience in the orthotics and prosthetics profession. He, however, is most notable for co-creating the world’s first prosthetic tail for Winter, an amputee dolphin. Carroll’s work inspired the film “Dolphin Tale.”  

In Carroll’s speech, he encouraged students to continue using Baylor’s values as a guide in their careers. He also advised graduates to look at the deeper roles within their professions and never forget the passion that inspired them to become healthcare providers.  

“As you embark on this journey, remember you’re not only healthcare professionals; you are healers, innovators and leaders,” Carroll said. “Continually remind yourself of why you chose your profession, and never lose the passion you feel in this moment.”

Watch the full commencement ceremony.

Dec. 9, 2024 

Baylor College of Medicine’s School of Health Professions recognized distinguished faculty and graduates from the Orthotics and Prosthetics Program, Physician Assistant Program and Doctor of Nursing Practice Program — Nurse Anesthesia at its 2024 School of Health Professions Awards Ceremony Dec. 6 in the Cullen Auditorium.

SHP honored faculty and graduates with awards for excelling in teaching, clinical practice, academia or research.

Students and faculty in the programs, the school’s dean and members of Baylor’s Alumni Association chose the recipients for the awards. Judges from Baylor, the College’s affiliates and other U.S. healthcare institutions chose the poster winners of the J. David Holcomb Health Professions Student Research Day. The winners were announced during the awards ceremony.

View the complete list of award recipients below. Watch the full awards ceremony. 

Faculty Award Recipients 

Excellence in Teaching Awards

At the end of their didactic phase of classroom instruction, students in each program scheduled to graduate the following year nominate and select recipients of awards for excellence in didactic instruction. Members of the graduating class who are concluding their clinical instruction nominate and select recipients of awards for excellence in clinical instruction.

Didactic 

• Dr. Jessica Gaines, Doctor of Nursing Practice Program — Nurse Anesthesia
• Jeremy Sherman, Orthotics and Prosthetics Program
• Stephanie DeSandro, Physician Assistant Program 

Clinical 

• Warren Cusick, Doctor of Nursing Practice Program — Nurse Anesthesia *
• Odile Anderson, Doctor of Nursing Practice Program — Nurse Anesthesia *
• Dr. Chris Miller, Doctor of Nursing Practice Program — Nurse Anesthesia *
• Dr. Terri L. Anderson , Doctor of Nursing Practice Program — Nurse Anesthesia *
• Kevin Hagemeier, Orthotics and Prosthetics Program*
• Stephanie DeSandro, Physician Assistant Program

Dean’s Excellence Award

Dean’s Excellence Awards are conferred on behalf of the School of Health Professions at the dean's discretion and with the endorsement of school and program leaders. Recipients are honored for merit in any domain of service benefiting the mission of the School of Health Professions.

• Dr. Kristina Hulten, Department of Pediatrics-Infectious Disease

Carl E. Fasser Physician Assistant Visionary Leadership Award

This award was established in honor of Carl Fasser for his sustained demonstration of visionary leadership toward the physician assistant profession through education, research, clinical practice and service. The enduring award is given annually to a Baylor College of Medicine physician assistant or program alumni who demonstrates exceptional leadership in these same domains.

• Zachary Gray, Physician Assistant Program

Dr. James R. Walker Clinical Education Excellence Award

This award is given annually to recognize individuals who exemplify the values of Baylor College of Medicine and who have made significant contributions to the clinical education of nurse anesthesia students during the clinical phase of the program. The recipient of this award will demonstrate a commitment to the students’ educational experience in the clinical phase of the program and is nominated by graduating nurse anesthesia students.

• Dr. Zbigniew Wojciechowski, Doctor of Nursing Practice Program — Nurse Anesthesia*

*Clinical preceptors are not part of the School of Health Professions’ faculty but were recognized with the school’s faculty members during the awards ceremony.

Student Award Recipients 

Alumni Association Lehmann Student Awards

The BCM Alumni Association Lehmann Outstanding Student Awards is in honor of ophthalmology resident alumnus and active alumni volunteer, Dr. Robert P. Lehmann. In April 2011, Dr. Lehmann made a donation to establish a permanent endowment. It is the earnings from this endowment that now allow the School of Health Professions to present three scholarships yearly.

• Dr. Andrew Gomez, Doctor of Nursing Practice — Nurse Anesthesia Graduate
• Bianca Hill, Orthotics and Prosthetics Graduate
• Montrashay Worley, Physician Assistant Graduate

Physician Assistant Joan Wilson-Appel Award for Excellence in Clinical Research

The Joan Wilson Appel Award for Excellence in Clinical Research is established to encourage physician assistant students at Baylor College of Medicine to broaden their knowledge of translational medical science and to consider clinical research as part of their future careers.

• Johnna Pulliam, Physician Assistant Graduate
• Jessica Townsend, Physician Assistant Graduate
• Ainsley Sorenson, Physician Assistant Graduate

The following awards were given to graduates during the SHP’s commencement ceremony. 

Lewis A. Leavitt Academic Excellence Award

This award is given annually to the graduating physician assistant student who has achieved the highest scholastic ranking in the graduating class. The award is in memory of Lewis A. Leavitt, M.D., former professor of rehabilitation, chairman of the Department of Physical Medicine and chairman of the Allied Health Manpower Development committee. His lifelong pursuit of academic excellence and his outstanding contributions to mankind, made by exemplary achievements in the fields of medicine and health professions, did much to provide innovative development of the Physician Assistant Program at Baylor College of Medicine.

• Annie Yang, Physician Assistant Graduate

Orthotics and Prosthetics RIITE Award

In honor of Earl Fogler, founding manager of the Orthotics and Prosthetics Program’s Fabrication Lab, an orthotics and prosthetics graduate who demonstrated respect, integrity, innovation, teamwork and excellence while working in the program’s lab earns this award.

• Olivia Wong, Orthotics and Prosthetics Graduate

Orthotics and Prosthetics Academic Excellence Award

This award is given annually to the orthotics and prosthetics student who has achieved the highest scholastic ranking in the graduating class.

• Marcella Diamond, Orthotics and Prosthetics Graduate

Helen Lamb Academic Excellence Award

This award is given annually to the graduate who achieved the highest during the didactic phase of the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program in Nurse Anesthesia. The award honors Helen Lamb, CRNA (1900–1979), the founder and director of Barnes Hospital School Anesthesia from 1929-1951. She chaired the AANA Education Committee from 1931-1939 that established the curriculum and minimum standards for schools of nurse anesthesia. She performed the anesthetic for the world’s first successful pneumonectomy. She served as AANA president from 1940-1942.

• Dr. Erika Reed, Doctor of Nursing Practice — Nurse Anesthesia Graduate

Alice Magaw Clinical Excellence Award

This award is given annually to the graduate who achieved the highest clinical ranking during the clinical phase of the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program in Nurse Anesthesia. The award honors Alice Magaw, CRNA (1860–1928), bestowed the recognition as “the Mother of Anesthesia” by Dr. Charles H. Mayo, cofounder of the Mayo Clinic. Miss Magaw was considered a “peerless” scholar in the drop technique of ether/chloroform anesthetic administration. She was the first nurse anesthetist to publish her vast experiences in anesthesia serving to profoundly advance the art and science of anesthesia.

• Dr. Maria Moya, Doctor of Nursing Practice – Nurse Anesthesia Graduate

Research Day Winners

This year’s competition resulted in ties for second place. 

Physician Assistant Program

Haley Smith: “Retention of Electrocardiogram Interpretation Skills Among Physician Assistant Students,” First Place 

• Elle Madsen: “Preparation to Prescribe in the Clinical Setting: Perception of Readiness Among Physician Assistant Students and Recent Program Graduates,” Second Place
• Carl Pohl: “Diagnostic Utility Differences Amongst the Framingham, Duke, Boston, and European Society of Cardiology Criteria for Diagnosing Heart Failure: A Systematic Review, Second Place
• Michelle Kung: “Relapsed Pediatric Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): A Retrospective Chart Review,” Third Place

Orthotics and Prosthetics Program

• Emily Watson: “Trialing an Upper Limb Terminal Device Database,” First Place
• Marcella Diamond: “Emerging Trends in Professional Satisfaction Among Early-Career Orthotic and Prosthetic Clinicians,” Second Place
• Olivia Wong: “The Effects of Exoskeleton Training on Lower Limb EMG in the Sub-Acute Stroke Population: A Scoping Review,” Second Place
• Cody Aden: “Partial Hand Amputation: Understanding Incidence, Demographics, and Etiology in the United States,” Third Place”

Nov. 27, 2024

Check out the BCM Family feature story on the class of 2024 Physician Assistant Program student Madison Kocian who traveled to Paris for the 2024 Olympics while enrolled in a virtual, core course for her program at Baylor. Madison shared how she balanced working for Team USA at the Paris games while taking the course. She also provides insight into her past career in gymnastics and her journey as a medical student. 

Nov. 4, 2024  

National Allied Health Professions Week is an annual celebration to honor the different health professional roles supporting the U.S. healthcare system. This year’s Allied Health Professions Week is Nov. 3-10.  

Learn about the rich history of the field and how members of the School of Health Professions’ Doctor of Nursing Practice Program – Nurse Anesthesia, Genetic Counseling Program, Orthotics and Prosthetics Program and Physician Assistant Program in Baylor College of Medicine impact their professions.

The concept of allied health formed after World War II resulted in the high demand for medical services physicians did not provide. By the mid-1960s, health scientists began to use the term ‘allied health’ to describe these services.  

The term became popular across the United States after the passage of the Allied Health Professions Personnel Training Act of 1966. The act provided grants to build and renovate training facilities promoting allied health.  

The significant increase in healthcare practices other than medicine and the popularity of the term led to the development of allied health schools and certification programs at universities, colleges and healthcare centers.  

In 1967, deans of allied health at 13 U.S. universities established the Association of Schools of Allied Health Professions to advance the interdisciplinary education and training of the field in higher education. Over time, ASAHP began to extend its membership to hospitals, clinics and other non-academic institutions.  

ASAHP’s dedication to expanding the knowledge of the field beyond its professions caused the organization to create National Allied Health Week in 1991. The annual celebration, which is celebrated in the first week of November, became National Allied Health Professions Week in 2016 to reflect the different practices in the field.

In 2019, ASAHP changed its name to the Association of Schools Advancing Health Professions to not only acknowledge the diverse professions but also recognize the progressive nature of the field.  

About 60% of healthcare practices are classified as health professions, including nurse anesthesia, genetic counseling, orthotics and prosthetics and physician assistant. SHP’s programs are helping in the advancement of these professions by continuing the school’s mission.  

The programs recruit and retain talented faculty and staff, engage in innovative learning and use cutting-edge healthcare technology to prepare the next generation of health professionals for leadership and collaborative roles in their professions.  

Because of the enriching experience in evidence-based care and interprofessional practice students gain at SHP, they consistently secure jobs at reputable health institutions, earn prestigious awards and engage in initiatives improving health professions education and access in their communities before and after graduation.  

The history of the health professions is a testament to the evolution and adaptability of the field within the ever-changing healthcare system. SHP’s programs pave the way for future health professionals to excel in their respective professions, support healthcare systems and assist those in need of quality, empathetic healthcare. 

Oct. 28, 2024

The Orthotics and Prosthetics Program in Baylor College of Medicine’s School of Health Professions hosted the International Society of Prosthetics and Orthotics’ first North American Global Educators Meeting from Oct. 22 to Oct. 24, 2024 on the College’s main campus in Houston.  

During the fourth GEM, 114 attendees from across six continents engaged in free paper and symposia sessions, sponsorship presentations and robust discussions about the needs and strategies of orthotic and prosthetic education. Each day of the event focused on a different topic: Innovate, collaborate and educate.  

Dr. Todd Reinhart, dean of the School of Health Professions, provided a welcome message to the attendees during the Opening Ceremony on “Day 1: Innovate” in addition to Executive Vice President and Dean of Clinical Affairs Dr. James McDeavitt.  

Reinhart extended his gratitude to the meeting’s committee members for their hard work in planning the event. He also thanked the attendees for their commitment to international health professions education and for preparing students to become exceptional healthcare providers.  

“I’m certain we will all agree that health professions education is such a critical piece of providing accessible, quality and equitable care across the globe,” Reinhart said. “Without dedicated educators like you, the system suffers. And most importantly, patients and communities suffer.”  

Dr. Teri Turner, professor of pediatrics at Baylor, delivered the keynote speech for “Day 1: Innovate.” Turner discussed techniques educators could use to transform their work into scholarship. The second keynote speaker was Bryan Malas, director of the Department of Orthotics/Prosthetics Department and Moria Tobin Wickes Orthotics Program at Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. Malas shared approaches for influencing students, education and policy on “Day 3: Educate.”

Dr. Ashley Mullen, chair of the Local Organizing Committee for GEM 2024 and program director of the Orthotics and Prosthetics Program at Baylor, said Turner and Malas’ speeches were engaging and resulted in thoughtful discussion and reflection on the importance of scholarship and professional advocacy through educational standards among attendees. She found the speeches to be integral to the success of the biennial event.  

“The Global Educators Meeting was a wonderful opportunity for educators to share best practices, discuss solutions to challenges and engage in professional networking,” Mullen said. “Through our efforts, we can help contribute to the global recognition of orthotics and prosthetics as a healthcare profession.”  

Attendees also participated in a student-guided tour of the Orthotics and Prosthetics Program’s facilities.  

Learn more about GEM 2024.

Oct. 16, 2024

View the BCM Family feature story on Orthotics and Prosthetics Program alumnus Lucas Crisanti ('21) who served as a prosthetist with Ottobock's technical support team for the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris. Crisanti reflects on his experience at the Games, career and volunteer work with parasport organizations.

July 25, 2024 

The School of Health Professions Physician Assistant Program’s class of 2025 earned their white coats at the White Coat Ceremony Friday, July 19 in the Cullen Auditorium on Baylor College of Medicine’s main campus. 

The traditional ceremony marked first-year students’ transition from the 13-month classroom training into the 18-month clinical setting. 

Valerie DeGregorio, associate program director and assistant professor of the Physician Assistant Program, kickstarted the ceremony by delivering a speech informing attendees about the hard work, dedication and sacrifice the students experienced to receive their white coats. 

“There are several milestones in the rite of passage from PA Program applicant to a new entry-level healthcare provider,” DeGregorio said. “Each (student) has attained several of these milestones. It has been our privilege as a faculty to watch (them) grow through these.” 

Other members of the program delivered speeches, including the ceremony’s honored speaker Dr. Jonnae Atkinson, medical director of the Physician Assistant Program. Atkinson compared the practice of medicine to a hurricane and assured students they will overcome obstacles during clinical rotations. 

“As you take the next step on your journey, I encourage you to embrace the spirit of the hurricane: the strength, the adaptability and the profound impact,” Atkinson said. “Remember that you have the power to navigate all the challenges and uncertainties that will come your way.” 

After the students received their white coats, they recited the Hippocratic Oath administered by Kathy Erdman, assistant professor in the Physician Assistant Program, to pledge their dedication to the profession. 

The program also awarded the Susan Mortensen Turley Endowed Scholarship to Lindsy Kuruvilla-Allison. Alumnus Bruce Mortensen (’14) established the award in 2017 to memorialize his daughter, Susan Mortensen Turley, who died of cancer. 

The award recognizes a first-year physician assistant student who, like Turley, demonstrated outstanding commitment to community service. Students are nominated by their classmates for the award.

Watch the full ceremony.

July 16, 2024

Baylor College of Medicine’s School of Health Professions is launching the Pathway in Health Equity focused on promoting equity in healthcare through education, community engagement and research. The first cohort of 11 students begins this month.

June 10, 2024

The School of Health Professions — Orthotics and Prosthetics Program hosted its White Coat Ceremony for the class of 2025 Friday at the Cullen Auditorium on Baylor College of Medicine’s main campus. Watch the video.

The annual ceremony honored first-year students for completing the preclinical phase of the program. Students received their white coats and recited the Oath of Practice for Orthotists and Prosthetists to mark their transition into the 18-month residency phase.  

Dr. Ashley Mullen, program director of the Orthotics and Prosthetics Program, delivered a speech at the ceremony. Mullen praised the class for their accomplishments and advised the cohort to see residency as an opportunity to grow as clinicians.  

“I am proud of you for your hard work and determination,” Mullen said. “Lean into the strength that you have built this year. Embrace the opportunity to learn from some of the best clinicians in the country.”

The ceremony included additional remarks from the program’s community, including 2025 Class President Samantha Johnson. Johnson encouraged her classmates to overcome the self-doubt they may have throughout residency by remembering what they accomplished during the preclinical phase. 

“You are capable,” Johnson said. “You do deserve to be where you are. You are on the right path. And I for one can’t wait to see where each of your paths take you, because I know it will be somewhere truly amazing.”  

The class completed 49 exams, worked with patient models 21 times and finished nearly 387 lab hours. The program continued celebrating the class for its accomplishments at an open reception in the Orthotics and Prosthetics Lab. The reception included refreshments for attendees and gift bags for the class.  

May 29, 2024

The School of Health Professions — Genetic Counseling Program’s class of 2024 graduated alongside graduates in the School of Medicine and Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences Tuesday at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston.

Dr. William G. Kaelin Jr., a 2019 winner of The Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, delivered the John E. Whitmore Lecture commencement address. Kaelin is the Sidney Farber Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. He is a senior physician-scientist at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Howard Hughes Medical Institute Investigator.

During Kaelin’s address, he quoted philosopher Confucius to motivate graduates to choose a fulfilling career that will make them happy. “As Confucius said, ‘If you do something that you like for a living, then you never have to work a day in your life,”’ Kaelin said.

The Genetic Counseling Program kickstarted the celebration of its fifth graduating class ahead of commencement by hosting an annual Graduation Celebration Friday, May 24 in the Cullen Auditorium on the main Baylor campus. The event included a reception and ceremony attended by the graduates, the graduates’ family and friends and members of the School of Health Professions and Department of Molecular and Human Genetics communities.

The reception included an in-person and virtual viewing of the graduates’ thesis project posters. The program and department leadership, such as Genetic Counseling Program Associate Director and Assistant Professor Salma Nassef, delivered speeches that acknowledged the graduates’ growth throughout the program.

“Even though you walk the stage next week, today is the day that marks, in my mind and in my heart, the day you transition from being learners here at Baylor to part of our Baylor family to (members) of our alumni network,” Nassef said. I look forward to witnessing all of your amazing professional accomplishments as you transition.”

After remarks from program and department leadership, the graduates, who completed 1,935 cases during the two-year program, were hooded by their thesis project chairs. The ceremony also included an awards presentation and personal remarks to the graduates from faculty, staff and peers.

View the full list of award winners below. 

Faculty and Staff Awards

• Outstanding Clinical Supervisor — Ashley Spector, C.G.C. Based on clinic style and feedback.
• Outstanding Teacher Award — Sarah Scollon, C.G.C. Determined by teaching style, availability and accessibility.
• Outstanding Mentor Award — Andrea Moon, C.G.C. Faculty member who showed warmth and support toward students and provided guidance outside of the class and clinical space.
• Outstanding Non-Genetic Counselor — Jannette Cruz. An instructor, course director, clinical supervisor, thesis committee member or other individual who provides significant input and support to the student learning experience. 

Graduate Awards

• 2024 Best Poster —Grayson Northcutt. A genetic counseling graduate whose thesis project presentation was the most impressive among judges. The impressiveness of the poster is determined by a rubric provided to the judges.
• 2024 Outstanding Class Engagement — Arden Wheeler. A genetic counseling graduate who actively participated in class discussions and activities and was outstanding in representing the profession in different settings, including the classroom and healthcare community.
• 2024 Outstanding Clinical Performance —Sara Stansbury. A genetic counseling graduate who demonstrated exemplary patient care through compassion and skilled communication in the clinical setting.
• 2024 Outstanding Leadership Achievement — Arden Wheeler. A genetic counseling graduate who advocated for peers, the program and the profession. 

Watch the commencement ceremony. 

Watch the celebration event. 

March 8, 2024

Check out the BCM Family feature story on third-year orthotics and prosthetics resident and student Leah Karels who participated in the 2023 Neuromotor Skill Advancement for Post-baccalaureates (NSAP) program where she conducted neuroscience research to help patients with mobility impairments. 

Dec. 6, 2023 

Faculty and graduates from the School of Health Professions’ Nurse Anesthesia Program, Orthotics and Prosthetics Program and Physician Assistant Program at Baylor College of Medicine earned prestigious awards during the school’s Health Professions Awards Ceremony Friday in the college’s Cullen Auditorium. 

The annual awards ceremony recognizes outstanding faculty and graduating students who excelled in their contributions to the school and respective health profession. The programs’ students and faculty members and the school’s dean selected the awards recipients. The school also announced the winners of the annual J. David Holcomb Health Professions Student Research Day that occurred earlier the same day in the college’s Rayzor Lounge. 

During Research Day, which is in honor of the school’s founding dean, Dr. David Holcomb, students from all programs presented their research projects via posters and virtually. Students are required to complete research projects to graduate. The college’s faculty and its affiliates judged the research projects of 55 graduates from the Physician Assistant Program and Orthotics and Prosthetics Program. The judges selected three graduates from each program who demonstrated the top research paper among their peers. 

View the complete list of awards recipients below. Watch the full Health Professions Awards Ceremony. 

Faculty Awards Recipients 

Excellence in Teaching Awards

At the end of their didactic phase of classroom instruction, students in each program scheduled to graduate the following year nominate and select recipients of awards for excellence in didactic instruction. Members of the graduating class who are concluding their clinical instruction nominate and select recipients of awards for excellence in clinical instruction.

• Dr. Cora Rabe: Former Assistant Professor, Nurse Anesthesia Program
• Megan Castille: Assistant Professor, Orthotics and Prosthetics Program
• Elissa Love: Assistant Professor, Physician Assistant Program
• Dr. Edward Maruri: Assistant Professor, Nurse Anesthesia Program
• Dr. Matthew Danley:  Baylor Scott and White All Saints Medical Center Clinical Preceptor, Nurse Anesthesia Program*
• Dr. Erin Larck: Cabell Huntington Hospital Clinical Preceptor, Nurse Anesthesia Program*
• Herman Henkes: UT Health San Antonio Clinical Preceptor, Nurse Anesthesia Program*
• Shawna Ziemer: Cornerstone Prosthetics & Orthotics Clinical Preceptor, Orthotics and Prosthetics Program*
• Carl Fasser: Professor, Physician Assistant Program 

James R. Walker Award

This award is given annually to recognize individuals who exemplify the values of Baylor College of Medicine and who have made significant contributions to the clinical education of nurse anesthesia students during the clinical phase of the program. The recipient of this award will demonstrate a commitment to the students’ educational experience in the clinical phase of the program and is nominated by graduating nurse anesthesia students.

• Douglass Massey: UT Health San Antonio Clinical Preceptor, Nurse Anesthesia Program*

Dean’s Excellence Award

Dean’s Excellence Awards are conferred on behalf of the School of Health Professions at the discretion of the dean and with the endorsement of school and program leaders. Recipients are honored for merit in any domain of service benefiting the mission of the School of Health Professions.

• Dr. Ram Reddy: Professor, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology
• Jeannette Adams: Executive Assistant, School of Health Professions 

Dr. J. David Holcomb Achievement award

This award is given annually to an individual selected for a record of sustained leadership on behalf of health professions education, research, faculty development and scholarship. The award was developed by faculty and students at the School of Health Professions to honor Dr. J. David Holcomb, professor emeritus and dean emeritus, founding dean of the School of Health Professions. The school evolved from the Division of Allied Health Sciences, Department of Family and Community Medicine, which Dr. Holcomb had led for more than thirty years.

• Dr. Ashley Mullen: Program Director and Associate Professor, Orthotics and Prosthetics Program

Carl E. Fasser Physician Assistant Visionary Leadership Award

This award was established in honor of Carl Fasser for his sustained demonstration of visionary leadership toward the physician assistant profession through education, research, clinical practice and service. The enduring award is given annually to a Baylor College of Medicine physician assistant or program alumni who demonstrates exceptional leadership in these same domains.

• Eric Martinez: Assistant Professor, Physician Assistant 

*Clinical preceptors are not part of the School of Health Professions’ faculty but were recognized with the school’s faculty members during the awards ceremony.

Student Awards Recipients 

Physician Assistant Joan Wilson-Appel Award for Excellence in Clinical Research

The Joan Wilson Appel Award for Excellence in Clinical Research is established to encourage physician assistant students at Baylor College of Medicine to broaden their knowledge of translational medical science and to consider clinical research as part of their future careers. 

• Emily Mahoney: Physician Assistant Graduate

Alumni Association Lehmann Student Awards

The BCM Alumni Association Lehmann Outstanding Student Awards is in honor of ophthalmology resident alumnus and active alumni volunteer, Dr. Robert P. Lehmann. In April 2011, Dr. Lehmann made a donation to establish a permanent endowment. It is the earnings from this endowment that now allow the School of Health Professions to present three scholarships yearly. 

• Hannah Diaz: Nurse Anesthetist Graduate
• Amanda Wilson: Orthotics and Prosthetics Graduate
• Nikol Yonemura: Physician Assistant Graduate

Joseph DeVance Hamilton Physician Assistant Student Excellence in Psychiatry Award

This award is given to the physician assistant graduate who, in the opinion of the faculty of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, demonstrated outstanding knowledge and skills in the practice of psychiatry.

• Juhi Gor: Physician Assistant Graduate 

Lewis A. Leavitt Academic Excellence Award

This award is given annually to the graduating physician assistant student who has achieved the highest scholastic ranking in the graduating class. The award is in memory of Lewis A. Leavitt, M.D., former professor of rehabilitation, chairman of the Department of Physical Medicine and chairman of the Allied Health Manpower Development committee. His lifelong pursuit of academic excellence and his outstanding contributions to mankind, made by exemplary achievements in the fields of medicine and health professions, did much to provide innovative development of the Physician Assistant Program at Baylor College of Medicine.

• Logan Bruffett: Physician Assistant Graduate 

Orthotics and Prosthetics Academic Excellence Award

This award is given annually to the orthotics and prosthetics student who has achieved the highest scholastic ranking in the graduating class.

• Kendall Brice: Orthotics and Prosthetics Graduate
• Abigail Dykema: Orthotics and Prosthetics Graduate
• Emily Tully: Orthotics and Prosthetics Graduate
• Emily Zeck: Orthotics and Prosthetics Graduate

Helen Lamb Academic Excellence Award 

This award is given annually to the graduate who achieved the highest during the didactic phase of the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program in Nurse Anesthesia. The award honors Helen Lamb, CRNA (1900–1979), the founder and director of Barnes Hospital School Anesthesia from 1929-1951. She chaired the AANA Education Committee from 1931-1939 that established the curriculum and minimum standards for schools of nurse anesthesia. She performed the anesthetic for the world’s first successful pneumonectomy. She served as AANA president from 1940-1942.

• Megan Beavers: Nurse Anesthetist Graduate 

Alice Magaw Clinical Excellence Award 

This award is given annually to the graduate who achieved the highest clinical ranking during the clinical phase of the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program in Nurse Anesthesia. The award honors Alice Magaw, CRNA (1860–1928), bestowed the recognition as “the Mother of Anesthesia” by Dr. Charles H. Mayo, cofounder of the Mayo Clinic. Miss Magaw was considered a “peerless” scholar in the drop technique of ether/chloroform anesthetic administration. She was the first nurse anesthetist to publish her vast experiences in anesthesia serving to profoundly advance the art and science of anesthesia.

• Stephanie Becker: Nurse Anesthetist Graduate 

Research Day Winners 

Physician Assistant Program

• Juliana Abel: “Medical Traumatic Stress in Adults with Spina Bifida,” First Place
• Skyler Hand: Systematic Review of Factors Contributing to Physician Assistant Burnout,” Second Place
• Emily Mahoney: Outcomes of Sirolimus Use in Pediatric Patients With Solid Organ Transplants and Autoimmune Cytopenias,” Third Place 

Orthotics and Prosthetics Program

• Amanda Wilson: “Cranial Specialization in Orthotics and Prosthetics: A Clinician’s Perspective,” First Place
• Natalie Pace: “Perceptions of Hand Skill Importance in the Field or Orthotics and Prosthetics,” Second Place
• Tanya Prakash: “Perceived Effectiveness of a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Program Between Clinical Preceptors and Program Alumni,” Third Place

Dec. 4, 2023

Baylor College of Medicine’s School of Health Professions hosted its commencement ceremony for the class of 2023 Saturday at Rice University’s Stude Concert Hall. Eighty-two students from the Doctor of Nursing Practice, Nurse Anesthesia Program, Orthotics and Prosthetics Program and Physician Assistant Program walked across the stage to receive their diplomas.

The Doctor of Nursing Practice, Nurse Anesthesia Program graduated 27 students. Twenty-three students graduated from the Orthotics and Prosthetics Program. The Physician Assistant Program graduated 32 students.

Graduates Andrea Albin, Theresa Dinh, Nicole Kelly, Raymond Martin, Jordan Wheeler and Lauren White received recognition, in addition to earning their diplomas, for completing Baylor College of Medicine’s Pathways in medical ethics. Pathways comprises programs that allow students at the college to explore certain interests and tailor their education to their specific career goals. The Medical Ethics Pathway provides students with in-depth knowledge on bioethics and its clinical applications. Students who enroll in the program must complete a scholarly project. Those who finish the program receive a certificate in biomedical ethics.

A graduate from each program earned an award for representing their profession well. Nurse anesthetist student Laura Parisi received the Agatha Hodgins CRNA Memorial Award for achieving the highest scholastic rank among her class. The Orthotics and Prosthetics Program awarded Erin Casey the Lucille Becker Clinical Achievement Award for demonstrating excellence, growth, innovation and commitment during the clinical portion of the program. Physician Assistant graduate Logan Buffett earned the Henry D. McIntosh Award. The Physician Assistant Program gives the award to a graduate who, in the opinion of classmates and faculty, achieved the highest degree of academic excellence and service and best exemplifies the concept of the profession.

Dr. James R. Walker, an associate professor for the Department of Anesthesiology and the School of Health Professions at Baylor College of Medicine, delivered the commencement address. Walker is the former program director for Baylor College of Medicine’s Doctor of Nursing Practice, Nurse Anesthesia Program. He is also the former president of the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists.

During his address, Walker encouraged graduates to reflect on Baylor College of Medicine’s values throughout the next chapter of their professional careers.

“Graduates, as you embark on the next chapter of your professions, it’s crucial to reflect on the values that guided you at Baylor College of Medicine: respect, integrity, innovation, teamwork and excellence,” Walker said. “These values are not just words. They are the pillars that will uphold the foundations of your professions. Each value is a compass directing you on the path of compassionate care and unwavering dedication to those you serve. In times of chaos, it’s essential to anchor yourself in the values that brought you here today.”

Watch the full commencement ceremony.

Third-year physician assistant student Lindsey Schuler shared with Baylor College of Medicine’s Institutional Advancement her gratitude for the college’s support in her medical career. Schuler’s interest in medicine began when she became inspired by the doctors who healed her after she faced a devastating injury. Watch the video.

Genetic Counseling Program director Daniel Riconda, M.S., CGC (left) spoke with genetic counselor John Zimmerman, M.S., CGC (right) and podcast host Kira Dineen on the podcast "DNA Today" about the experiences of being a male in the field of genetic counseling. Listen now.

The School of Health Professions held their annual Awards Ceremony Friday, Dec. 3, 2021 in Kleberg Auditorium. Please see below for a listing of the award recipients.

Leadership Awards

Dean's Excellence Award

Dean’s Excellence Awards are conferred on behalf of the School of Health Professions at the discretion of the dean and with the endorsement of school and program leaders. Recipients are honored for merit in any domain of service benefiting the mission of the School of Health Professions.

• Dean's Excellence Award Recipient: Liz Haecker

Carl E. Fasser Visionary Leadership Award

This award was established in honor of Carl Fasser for his sustained demonstration of visionary leadership toward the physician assistant profession through education, research, clinical practice, and service. The enduring award will be given annually to a Baylor College of Medicine physician assistant or program alumnus who demonstrates exceptional leadership in these same domains.

• Carl E. Fasser Visionary Leadership Award Recipient: Janie Anders

Alumni Association Lehmann Student Award

The BCM Alumni Association Lehmann Outstanding Student Awards is in honor of ophthalmology resident alumnus and active alumni volunteer, Dr. Robert P. Lehmann. In April 2011, Dr. Lehmann made a donation to establish a permanent endowment. It is the earnings from this endowment that now allow us to present three scholarships yearly for the School of Health Professions.

• Alumni Association Lehmann Student Award Recipient: Alaina Daniel
• Alumni Association Lehmann Student Award Recipient: Lucas Crisanti
• Alumni Association Lehmann Student Award Recipient: Claire Warner

Teaching Excellence Awards

At the end of their didactic phase of classroom instruction, students in each program scheduled to graduate the following year nominate and select recipients of awards for excellence in didactic instruction.

Members of the graduating class who are concluding their clinical instruction nominate and select recipients of awards for excellence in clinical instruction.

This award is given to the physician assistant graduate who, in the opinion of the faculty of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, demonstrated outstanding knowledge and skills in the practice of psychiatry.

• Physician Assistant Didactic Instructor Recipient: Valerie DeGregorio
• Orthotics and Prosthetics Didactic Instructor Recipient: Jeremy Sherman
• Doctor of Nursing Practice Program - Nurse Anesthesia Didactic Instructor Recipient: Megan Bullerwell
• Physician Assistant Clinical Instructor Recipient: Concetta Payne
• Orthotics and Prosthetics Clinical Instructor Recipient: Joey Koblasz
• Doctor of Nursing Practice Program - Nurse Anesthesia Clinical Instructor Recipient: Stephanie Raschilla

J. David Holcomb Research Day

VoiceThread Link.

Research Awards
As a graduation requirement, each health professions student conducts a research project and reports the results through a Master’s Paper. The purpose of this activity is to develop students’ abilities to identify questions that may be answered through investigation. Furthermore, the research process develops students’ knowledge in the subject area being studied and the health research methods and statistical analyses being applied. Preparation of the Master’s Paper also enhances students’ skills in written communication.

Each student has a primary and secondary faculty mentor with the expertise needed to nurture the student’s ability to conduct a research project. The mentors are responsible for the overall guidance, supervision, and evaluation of the student’s work on the research project.

Physician Assistant / Orthotics and Prosthetics

• Physician Assistant Research Day 1st Place Recipient: Ashley Allen
• Physician Assistant Research Day 2nd Place Recipient: Shannon Foreman
• Physician Assistant Research Day 3rd Place Recipient: Kristen Berry
• Orthotics and Prosthetics Research Day 1st Place Recipient: Emily Patterson
• Orthotics and Prosthetics Research Day 2nd Place Recipient: Hannah Clark
• Orthotics and Prosthetics Research Day 3rd Place Recipient: Annie Gibbs

Orthotics and Prosthetics Product Pitches

Students in the O&P Program have the option to pursue a product development project as their master's thesis. This project involves identifying a need, analyzing the market, developing a prototype, and testing the prototype. Students completing a product development project present a product pitch to faculty, students, and program stakeholders at the end of their academic term. This pitch is designed to enhance a student's ability to communicate the need for and benefits of their product should they seek institutional licensing or external funding.

• Orthotics and Prosthetics Product Pitches Recipient: Tatiana Rypinski

O&P RIITE Values Award

This award is given in honor of the contributions of Earl Fogler, founding lab manager in the O&P Program. Students in the first year of the program spend the vast majority of their time working in the orthotics and prosthetics lab, a place which Earl ensured was a home for all students. The award is given annually (as of 2020) to a second-year orthotics and prosthetics student who demonstrated respect, integrity, innovation, teamwork, and excellence during the first year of the program. Recipients embody the spirit of teamwork and community through their willingness to support members of their cohort.

• O&P RIITE Values Award Recipient: Matthew Ho

Joan Wilson Appel Award for Excellence in Clinical Research

The Joan Wilson Appel Award for Excellence in Clinical Research is established to encourage Physician Assistant (PA) students at Baylor College of Medicine to broaden their knowledge of translational medical science and to consider clinical research as part of their future careers. This competitive award aims to encourage PA students to pursue academic careers where scholarship, clinical research and discovery will be part of their ongoing medical practice. The award recognizes superior work by a graduating student as embodied by a final draft manuscript and supporting documentation.

• Joan Wilson Appel Award for Excellence in Clinical Research Recipient: Katie Larson

Other Student Awards

Alice Magaw Award

This award is given annually to the graduate who achieved the highest clinical ranking during the clinical phase of the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program in Nurse Anesthesia.

The award honors Alice Magaw, CRNA (1860–1928), bestowed the recognition as “the Mother of Anesthesia” by Dr. Charles H. Mayo, cofounder of the Mayo Clinic. Miss Magaw was considered a “peerless” scholar in the drop technique of ether/chloroform anesthetic administration. She was the first nurse anesthetist to publish her vast experiences in anesthesia serving to profoundly advance the art and science of anesthesia.

• Alice Magaw Award Recipient: Douglas Owen Massey, II

Helen Lamb Award

This award is given annually to the graduate who achieved the highest scholastic ranking during the didactic phase of the Doctor of Nursing Practice Program in Nurse Anesthesia.

The award honors Helen Lamb, CRNA (1900–1979), the founder and director of Barnes Hospital School of Anesthesia from 1929 to 1951. She chaired the AANA Education Committee from 1931-1939 that established the curriculum and minimum standards for schools of nurse anesthesia. She performed the anesthetic for the world’s first successful pneumonectomy. She served as AANA president from 1940 to 1942.

• Helen Lamb Award Recipient: Tosin Oshoba

Henry D. McIntosh Award

This award is given annually to the graduating physician assistant student who in the opinion of classmates and faculty has achieved the highest degree of academic excellence and service, and who best exemplifies the concept of the physician assistant. The award carries the name of Henry D. McIntosh, M.D., former professor of medicine and chair of the Department of Internal Medicine. This distinguished physician, closely involved in the genesis of the Physician Assistant concept at Duke University, provided the impetus for further development of the profession at Baylor College of Medicine.

• Henry D. McIntosh Award Recipient: Shannon Foreman

Lewis A. Leavitt Academic Excellence Award

This award is given annually to the graduating physician assistant student who has achieved the highest scholastic ranking in the graduating class. The award is in memory of Lewis A. Leavitt, M.D., former professor of rehabilitation, chair of the Department of Physical Medicine, and chair of the Allied Health Manpower Development Committee. His lifelong pursuit of academic excellence and his outstanding contributions to mankind, made by exemplary achievements in the fields of medicine and health professions, did much to provide innovative development of the Physician Assistant Program at Baylor College of Medicine.

• Lewis A. Leavitt Academic Excellence Award Recipient: Katie Larson

Agatha Hodgins CRNA Memorial Award 

This award is given annually to the outstanding graduate who, based on both scholastic achievement and clinical performance, demonstrated the dedication and enthusiasm that best symbolizes the qualities desired in a Nurse Anesthetist.

The award honors Agatha Hodgins, CRNA (1877–1945), founder and first president of the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists. Miss Hodgins was one of the first to perfect the nitrous oxide–oxygen technique of anesthesia. In 1915, she founded the first formal school for anesthesia at Lakeside Hospital in Cleveland and was a visionary force in the establishment of the practice of nurse anesthesia.

• Agatha Hodgins CRNA Memorial Award Recipient: Ryan Marsden
• Agatha Hodgins CRNA Memorial Award Recipient: Audrey Weldon

Orthotics and Prosthetics Academic Excellence Award

This award is given annually to the Orthotics and Prosthetics student who has achieved the highest scholastic ranking in the graduating class.

• Orthotics and Prosthetics Academic Excellence Award Recipient: Shanna Barrow
• Orthotics and Prosthetics Academic Excellence Award Recipient: Emily Patterson

Lucille M. Becker Clinical Achievement Award

This award honors the contributions of Lucille Becker to the profession by recognizing a clinical resident in Orthotics and Prosthetics who has consistently demonstrated passion for patient care and clinical excellence. In 1960, Ms. Becker became the director of Becker Orthopedic Appliance company after her husband Otto's unexpected passing. At a time when clinicians and leaders in the profession were overwhelmingly men, she led the company with passion and innovation, bringing to market the first non-protrusion locking knee joint and double action ankle joint.

• Lucille M. Becker Clinical Achievement Award Recipient: Hannah Clark

Sarah Keyes, an assistant professor in Baylor’s Physician Assistant Program, discusses how training and working at Baylor has impacted her life and career. Read the story.