August SOM eNews

A Note From Dean Jermyn

As we embark on the new academic year, our campus is filled with the energy of fresh beginnings. The arrival of new students brings a renewed sense of hope and ambition. This was especially clear during our recent White Coat Ceremonies welcoming the Class of 2028. My sincere gratitude goes out to everyone who worked behind the scenes to create such a memorable experience for our students and their families

My best regards,

Richard T. Jermyn, D.O.

Dean

Class of 2028 Receives White Coats and a Unique Gift

Congratulations to the Class of 2028 on receiving their white coats during SOM’s White Coat Ceremonies on Friday, August 9.

Rowan-Virtua SOM welcomed 288 future physicians during dual White Coat Ceremonies at Pfleeger Concert Hall, marking the largest incoming medical school class in New Jersey. Dean Jermyn and President Houshmand highlighted the class’s diversity and the new opportunities provided by the Virtua Health partnership. Students received White Coat Notes and NARCAN dispensers, symbolizing their crucial role in health care. Special guest Dr. Ira Monka, president of the American Osteopathic Association, encouraged students to embrace growth through challenges and uphold osteopathic principles.

You can read more about the 2024 White Coat Ceremonies and view a video here.

Record-Breaking Success for White Coat Note Campaign

The Class of 2028 received a heartfelt welcome through our White Coat Note tradition. Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of family, friends, alumni, faculty, and staff, this year's campaign raised an astounding $24,000 for the White Coat Scholarship, providing essential financial support to our incoming medical students.

Recognition of GEM Awardees

The Rowan-Virtua Faculty and Staff Wellness Committee wishes to acknowledge the Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine (SOM) staff, faculty, students, and residents who have received a GEM shout-out.

The recipients of the GEM awards from July 25 to August 27 are listed below.

Valentine Angrand

Don Bunn and the Top Docs Staff

Veronica Danser

Mary Duggan

Donna Dymond

Angela Evans

Nadia Fedoryka

Laura Figueroa

Marisol Flores-Young

Ayesha Gurnani

Emily Hoffman

Nathaniel Huntrey

Qamar Iqbal

Donna Jones

Dr. Dianne Langford

Michelle Minkanic

Fatima Mossolem

Dr. Aubrey Olson

Courtney Pitt

Dr. Lenny Powell

Brittany Quintana

Ali Riad

Nichole Robinson

Colleen Rucci

Shreya Saranathan

Dr. Stephen Scheinthal

Alexander Smaniotto

Jenae Stalworth

Dana Zambito

The committee extends special thanks to all who sent a GEM shout-out to highlight the hard work and good deeds of someone at Rowan-Virtua SOM who has gone above and beyond. To send a shout-out, click here.

First Month Celebration

On August 16, we celebrated the arrival of the Class of 2028, the return of the Class of 2027, and the continued success of the Classes of 2025 and 2026 at the First Month Celebration! In Stratford and Sewell, student doctors enjoyed Kona Ice, pretzels, and games.

Joanna Petrides, MBS, Psy.D. from the Departments of Family Medicine and Psychology and chair of the Rowan-Virtua SOM Wellness Committee, shares this month’s tip for improving wellbeing.

Celebrate the end of summer! Linger a little longer doing the things you enjoy with the people you enjoy. Plan and prioritize doing the “last one” of an activity for the season like hiking, swimming, camping, or an end-of-summer trip. End the summer with intention!