Louisiana

�鶹��ƷAƬ��ѹۿ�-Louisiana Celebrates 2025 Inductees into Gold Humanism Honor Society

aostroth@vt.vcom.edu — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 12:35:21 +0000

�鶹��ƷAƬ��ѹۿ�-Louisiana Celebrates 2025 Inductees into Gold Humanism Honor Society aostroth@vt.vcom.edu Thu, 06/12/2025 - 08:35

�鶹��ƷAƬ��ѹۿ�-Louisiana Celebrates 2025 Inductees into Gold Humanism Honor Society

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With the tranquil waters of Bayou DeSiard and the �鶹��ƷAƬ��ѹۿ�–Louisiana campus as a backdrop, 22 exceptional medical students were inducted into the prestigious Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) during a meaningful ceremony held on June 4, 2025, at the ULM Library Terrace. Nominated by their peers and selected by a faculty committee, these students were recognized for their unwavering compassion, empathy, and integrity in patient care, which are hallmarks of the GHHS mission.

Arnold P. Gold was a prominent physician, professor, and humanist who made significant contributions to the field of medicine, particularly in promoting humanism in healthcare. He was a pediatric neurologist and a professor at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. His legacy continues through The Arnold P. Gold Foundation and its initiatives, including the Gold Humanism Honor Society.

The Gold Humanism Award recognizes and celebrates medical professionals, including students, residents, and faculty, who demonstrate exemplary humanistic behaviors in the field of medicine. The GHHS promotes a culture of caring and respect in healthcare, ensuring patients are treated with dignity, kindness, and compassion.

Randy Devereaux, PhD, and Ray Morrison, DO, FACOS, DFACOS, spoke during the ceremony, offering heartfelt congratulations and words of encouragement to the inductees.

These students exemplify this earned trust by having their patients’ welfare at the center of everything they do. The patients see it, their classmates see it, and their faculty see it as well. Our GHHS members represent the best parts of us as medical practitioners and as an osteopathic medical school.

Randy L. Aldret, EdD, LAT, ATC, CSCS*D

Randy L. Aldret, EdD, LAT, ATC, CSCS*D, also addressed the group. Aldret shared, “It is an honor to be the faculty advisor for this award society at �鶹��ƷAƬ��ѹۿ�–Louisiana. Their peers nominated these students for their demonstrated commitment to health care and human kindness. It is even more special for the osteopathically trained due to the nature of the human connection associated with osteopathic manipulative medicine. These students exemplify this earned trust by having their patients’ welfare at the center of everything they do. The patients see it, their classmates see it, and their faculty see it as well. Our GHHS members represent the best parts of us as medical practitioners and as an osteopathic medical school.”

Students took the GHHS oath at the ceremony, solemnly committing to upholding essential humanistic values throughout their future medical careers. This honor reflects not only the individual achievements of the inductees, but also �鶹��ƷAƬ��ѹۿ�–Louisiana’s continued commitment to humanism in medicine. As they carry these values forward, their example will help shape a more compassionate future in healthcare.

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Louisiana

By Danielle Voumard -

Administrative Assistant for Biomedical Division

cellis01 — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 19:39:51 +0000

Administrative Assistant for Biomedical Division cellis01 Tue, 06/10/2025 - 15:39

Provides administrative support to the Biomedical faculty and the Associate Dean for Biomedical Affairs and Research. Participates in the support of college wide events and needs. See complete position description.

Campus: Louisiana

Status: Classified Staff Positions

View complete job description (PDF)

Shelda St. Preux

ebailey — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 13:50:28 +0000

Shelda St. Preux ebailey Tue, 06/10/2025 - 09:50

Who or what has inspired you while at �鶹��ƷAƬ��ѹۿ�?
My family, friends, and loved ones primarily have been my constant source of strength. Although many of them may not fully grasp the weight of what this journey entails, their unwavering support has carried me through some of the most difficult moments. I am truly loved, and that love makes all the difference. It surrounds me like a safety net, reminding me that even when I stumble, I will not fall far. Their prayers, encouragement, and quiet sacrifices have made this path more bearable. They inspire me to keep going, not just for myself, but for all of us, for the dreams they planted in me, and for the future we’re building together.

Dr. Annecie Noel also has been such an inspiration to me. We share an identical background, and seeing someone with similar roots who is excelling in this field reminds me of what is possible. Although medicine plays a major role in our lives, I’m so grateful to have someone who is well-rounded and grounded. She looks out for me, checks in regularly, gives sound advice, and has truly been a blessing in my journey. Having someone like her in my corner inspires me to be that kind of presence for others.

How has the �鶹��ƷAƬ��ѹۿ� mission inspired you as a medical student?
I have always been deeply involved in every community I’ve been part of, whether through volunteering or participating in faith-centered spaces. �鶹��ƷAƬ��ѹۿ�’s mission to develop globally and community-minded physicians aligns seamlessly with who I’ve always been. I’m grateful to be part of a culture that not only values outreach but actively empowers us to make an impact, both locally and globally.

It reminds me that medicine is more than a career. It’s a calling. And I am called to serve.

Who or what inspired you to study medicine?
My journey to medicine has several layers. I have always said I wanted to be a doctor since childhood, but as I grew older, I started to recognize how deeply the field needs diverse voices. I was the child who accompanied my mom to her doctor’s appointments just so I could translate. I remember thinking how much more efficient and comforting it would be if the physician actually spoke her language. Not just her native tongue, but also understood why she drank herbal teas or was hesitant to take certain medications. Our perspective as future physicians shapes how we level with our patients, how empathetic we are, and how effectively we partner with them in their care. That realization is what truly ignited my passion.

My aunt’s passing was a turning point in my life. It opened my eyes to the true impact medicine can have. It is a pendulum that can swing toward healing or, at times, toward heartbreak. Being on the receiving end of that, whether directly or through someone you love, fuels a passion unlike anything else. It teaches you what good medicine looks like, what gaps need to be filled, and the kind of care every patient deserves. That experience gave me purpose and helped me see that my voice and presence in this field matter.

Why did you choose �鶹��ƷAƬ��ѹۿ�?
Osteopathic medicine immediately resonated with me. Coming from a culture where holistic care is second nature, it felt like the perfect fit. I appreciate that osteopathic philosophy values the whole person, not just the illness. On top of that, �鶹��ƷAƬ��ѹۿ�’s systems-based curriculum, dedicated board prep block, and unique exam structure all stood out to me. Now that I have completed a year, I can say it truly makes a difference in how I learn and retain information.

What sealed it for me was �鶹��ƷAƬ��ѹۿ�’s global outreach programs and their mission to serve the underserved, both locally and internationally. As the daughter of Haitian immigrants, I wholeheartedly intend to return to my country of heritage to serve. Having the opportunity to navigate international medicine as early as my second year of medical school, and even into rotations and beyond, is truly a privilege. �鶹��ƷAƬ��ѹۿ�’s values don’t just align with mine, they actively equip me to fulfill them.

What do you enjoy most about living in the area around your campus?
Coming from South Florida, I’ve really appreciated the slower pace and tight-knit feel of Monroe. It’s peaceful and grounding, which is essential in such a rigorous program. I also love the way the community embraces us as student doctors. People are not only welcoming, but genuinely interested in partnering with us, whether it is for health fairs, outreach, or service events. It makes me feel like I am a valued part of something greater than myself.

What do you like to do in your free time?
Work-life harmony is very important to me, so I am intentional about creating boundaries and maintaining a schedule that allows me to rest and recharge. I enjoy journaling and spending time outdoors. I also play tennis and absolutely love traveling and embarking on new adventures. Some countries I have visited recently include Turks and Caicos, Brazil, Thailand, Greece, and Jamaica. Medical school has taught me how precious time is, so I prioritize connecting with my family, friends, and loved ones whenever I can.

Are you interested in a particular practice or specialty once you graduate? What has inspired your interest in this specialty?
I am very passionate about women’s health, so OB/GYN is a strong contender for me. I have seen firsthand the disparities that women, especially Black women, face when it comes to receiving adequate, respectful care. I want to be someone who changes that. I am also interested in internal medicine and open to exploring more during my clinical rotations. My heart is in primary care, and I know I will stay within a field that allows me to build long-term relationships with my patients and serve as a steady partner in their health journey.

Shelda St. Preux

Graduated: Class of 2028

Campus: Louisiana

Prior Schools: Florida State University, Florida Atlantic University

Degrees: BS in Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences, Clinical Professions, MS in Biomedical Science

Hometown: North Lauderdale, FL

Student

ACOOG Chapter at �鶹��ƷAƬ��ѹۿ�-Louisiana named “Organization of the Year” by The Wellspring

ebailey — Thu, 05 Jun 2025 12:53:49 +0000

ACOOG Chapter at �鶹��ƷAƬ��ѹۿ�-Louisiana named “Organization of the Year” by The Wellspring ebailey Thu, 06/05/2025 - 08:53

ACOOG Chapter at �鶹��ƷAƬ��ѹۿ�-Louisiana named “Organization of the Year” by The Wellspring

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The American College of Osteopathic Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOOG) chapter at �鶹��ƷAƬ��ѹۿ�-Louisiana has received a remarkable honor: The Wellspring’s “Organization of the Year” Award. This recognition celebrates the chapter’s outstanding volunteerism and ongoing commitment to supporting the Northeast Louisiana community.

Over the past year, the ACOOG chapter has worked closely with The Wellspring and its Family Justice Center, a vital local nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals facing homelessness, domestic and sexual violence, and other critical challenges. Together, they’ve created a powerful partnership rooted in compassion, action, and advocacy.

ACOOG members have donated their time and talents in impactful ways: organizing resource closets, painting playrooms and offices, assembling feminine hygiene kits, cleaning shelters, and hosting educational fairs focused on teen dating violence. Their hands-on service reflects a deep commitment to both medical education and community wellbeing.

Valerie Bowman, director of The Wellspring Domestic Violence Program and Family Justice Center of Ouachita Parish expressed, "We are incredibly thankful to the amazing volunteers with ACOOG who brought new life to our children’s playroom through painting and organizing, sorting countless donations with care, and leading multiple hygiene drives to support domestic violence families in need. Their compassion and commitment have made a lasting impact, creating a brighter, more supportive environment for every child and family who walks through our doors."

Partnering with a local organization that addresses domestic violence, sexual assault, and homelessness allows me to advocate for vulnerable populations while deepening my understanding of the social determinants of health, especially those relevant to women’s health. The ability to connect medical education with meaningful community service is a privilege. I feel it's important to purposefully contribute to the community, shaping me into a future physician.

Caroline Drell Extine , �鶹��ƷAƬ��ѹۿ�-Louisiana Class of 2027, ACOOG President

This award not only highlights the chapter’s inspiring efforts but also reinforces �鶹��ƷAƬ��ѹۿ�-Louisiana’s mission to develop compassionate, service-oriented physicians.