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November 2025
Here's a recap of all the School of Medicine events that recently took place!
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A Season of Gratitude: Celebrating Our People and Purpose
This November, the UTRGV School of Medicine expressed heartfelt appreciation to the dedicated faculty, staff, and community partners who shape the success of its students and patients.
Through a four-part message series, Interim Dean Dr. Everardo Cobos shared reflections of gratitude that highlight how collective work — in curriculum, clinical care, mentorship, and student support — continues to transform healthcare in the Rio Grande Valley and beyond.
Read all the messages here:
| | Staff Appreciation Breakfasts | |
The UTRGV School of Medicine hosted two Staff Appreciation Breakfasts, bringing employees together for a morning of gratitude and connection. Interim Dean Dr. Everardo Cobos welcomed faculty and staff at both the EMEBL Lobby and the HCEBL Auditorium, thanking them for their dedication and contributions to the school's mission.
Thank you to all who joined!
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The School of Medicine encouraged students, faculty, and staff to share messages of gratitude this season by contributing to a "Gratitude Tree."
The interactive display invited the SOM community to pause, reflect, and add their own notes of appreciation, creating a growing centerpiece of gratitude ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.
Thank you to all who stopped by to share what they're grateful for!
| Student Affairs' Thanksgiving Luncheon | |
The UTRGV School of Medicine community gathered Nov. 10 for the annual Thanksgiving Luncheon, hosted by the Office of Student Affairs. Students, faculty and staff enjoyed a warm meal together in the EMEBl Lobby, celebrating gratitude, community and the close of another busy fall semester.
This year’s event was made possible through the leadership of Dr. María de Jesús Muñoz, interim dean of Student Affairs, whose support helped bring the SOM community together for a moment of connection and appreciation. Attendees also contributed to the spirit of the day by bringing desserts to share.
The luncheon offered a welcome break during a demanding academic season and highlighted the School of Medicine’s commitment to fostering a supportive, inclusive environment for all.
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LCME Grants Continued Full Accreditation
to UTRGV School of Medicine
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The LCME has voted to continue full accreditation of the UTRGV School of Medicine's medical education program, with the next full survey visit scheduled for academic year 2027–28. Our current accreditation status and next survey date are now posted on the LCME website.
Read more here.
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A Visionary Investment:
Texas voters approve $3 billion fund to advance dementia research
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In a landmark victory for medical research and brain health, Texas voters have approved Proposition 14 on Nov. 4, establishing the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (DPRIT) and authorizing $3 billion in funding to accelerate the study, treatment and prevention of dementia-related diseases.
The new state fund will provide competitive grants to researchers and institutions working to advance understanding of Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and related disorders —bringing new hope to the millions of families impacted by memory decline across Texas.
Leaders at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley joined statewide voices in celebrating the approval of Proposition 14, thanking voters and elected officials for their commitment to addressing one of the most pressing health challenges of our time.
Read more here.
| AAMC 2025: Learn, Serve, Lead | |
The UTRGV School of Medicine was proudly represented at this year's AAMC 2025 Learn, Serve, Lead conference, where students, staff, and faculty joined hundreds of professionals in academic medicine to exchange ideas, strengthen connections, and share innovations shaping the future of healthcare education.
Sofia Hernandez, Chief of Staff at the UTRGV School of Medicine and Senior Associate Vice President for Government Relations, presented "From Statistics to Storytelling: Showing Policymakers the Impact of Academic Medicine," highlighting the power of storytelling to communicate the real-world impact of medical education and research to policymakers and the public.
Krystal Chappell, Program Manager, and Dr. Beatriz Tapia, Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs, shared their work on impact measurement and strategic planning, and offered practical tools to help institutions better evaluate outcomes and align initiatives with long-term goals.
Wandy Cruz Velazquez, Associate Registrar at the UTRGV School of Medicine, collaborated with colleagues from other institutions to discuss supporting transitions within academic medicine and to explore strategies to strengthen pathways between medical schools and enhance student success.
The UTRGV School of Medicine's Office of Human Resources and Office of Admissions were also on-site to recruit and connect with prospective faculty and students, and showcased UTRGV's growing leadership in medical education.
| Dr. Khalid Benamar and team publish study on chronic pain therapy strategies | |
Dr. Khalid Benamar, professor of the department of Neuro & Behavioral Health at the UTRGV School of Medicine, and his team have published new research in Pharmacological Research, a leading journal in the field of pharmacology and pain, exploring innovative approaches to treating chronic pain and depression.
Chronic pain affects more than 100 million adults in the United States and is often accompanied by depression, creating a major public health challenge with limited effective treatments. Dr. Benamar's study provides the first preclinical evidence that combining the terpene beta-caryophyllene (BCP) with the minor cannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD) produces synergistic pain-relief effects and antidepressant properties through anti-inflammatory mechanisms.
These findings suggest a promising therapeutic strategy for managing both chronic pain and depression. This unmet need holds particular importance for the Rio Grande Valley, where diabetes-related neuropathic pain remains a significant health concern.
This publication highlights UTRGV's growing contribution to neuroscience and pharmacological research aimed at improving health outcomes in underserved communities.
Pictured are medical students Hirma Garcia, Maria Sophia Malbas, Justin Mills, Joshua Nwose, and Briana Garcia; students Emmanuel Franco and Zayd Ayas; research associates Sophia Leslie and Jose Rios; and Dr. Benamar.
Read more here.
| Rio Grande Valley Cancer Health Disparities Center brings preventive women’s health services to the community | |
The Rio Grande Valley Cancer Health Disparities Center – Community Engagement Core launched its first-ever Unimóvil event at the Community Advancement Center Precinct 2 in Alamo, bringing preventive women's health services directly to the community.
The event provided pelvic exams, Pap smears, and clinical breast exams, along with referrals for mammograms, colonoscopies, and bone density screenings. Financial assistance was available for those who qualified, ensuring equitable access to care for all participants.
Funded by the NIH RCMI grant, the Community Engagement Core led this initiative focused on cervical cancer screening and early detection. It helped showcase UTRGV's commitment to improving women's health and reducing cancer disparities across the Rio Grande Valley.
| Beyond the Classroom: Career and Lecture Series | | |
Thomas Naveja, Chief Radiation Therapist at UT Health RGV, and Antonio Martinez, Medical Dosimetrist at UT Health RGV, recently participated in the Beyond the Classroom: Career and Lecture Series, hosted by the UTRGV McAllen ISD Collegiate Academy.
The event gave high school students a chance to explore healthcare careers and learn firsthand about the paths that lead to roles in radiation therapy and cancer care. Naveja and Martinez shared their personal career journeys, offered insights into their daily work, and answered students' questions about pursuing meaningful careers in healthcare.
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UTRGV Cancer Center opened its doors to discovery | | |
The School of Medicine's South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research welcomed the UTRGV community to its open house at the UTRGV Biomedical Research Building in McAllen.
Attendees explored cutting-edge labs, met with faculty experts, and learned how UTRGV's Biomedical Research Core Facilities are advancing collaborative cancer research in the Rio Grande Valley. The event offered an inside look at the center's growing impact — and a chance to connect over light refreshments and shared purpose.
Thank you to those who joined and participated!
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The UTRGV School of Medicine's Oncology Student Interest Group (SIG) partnered with Vitalant, one of the largest nonprofit blood and biotherapies organizations in the US, to host a campus blood drive, giving students, faculty, and staff the chance to make a lifesaving impact.
"For every whole blood donation, three lives are saved, and for every power blood donation, that number doubles to six," said Annu Karithara, a second-year medical student and member of the Oncology SIG. "Even though it's just a 15-minute visit, we can save lives."
This SIG organizes the blood drive each year and brings together medical students, faculty, and staff in support of community health.
"Events like these allow students to volunteer in an easy way but one that has a huge impact," said Maci Oestreich, second-year medical student and member of the Oncology Student Interest Group.
Thank you to those who participated and donated blood!
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UTRGV Internal Medicine residents shine at
National Rheumatology Conference
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UTRGV HCA Internal Medicine residents Francisco Arias (PGY-2), Tracy Estrella (PGY-1), and Diana Diaz (PGY-1) proudly represented the Rio Grande Valley at the ACR Convergence 2025 in Chicago, Illinois — one of the nation's premier rheumatology conferences.
Dr. Arias presented a research poster highlighting the registered adverse effects of Apremilast, a medication used to treat plaque psoriasis and related conditions.
Their participation reflects UTRGV's continued commitment to advancing research and showcasing RGV medical talent on a national stage.
Congratulations!
| | Texas ACP Southwest Region resident director | | |
Congratulations, Dr. Diana Acosta Pozo, PGY2 at UTRGV-Knapp, has been elected as the Texas ACP Southwest Region resident director.
In this role, Dr. Acosta Pozo will be taking over from Dr. Elimar Gonzalez, another UTRGV-Knapp graduating resident, whose dedication, leadership, and service over the past term have made a lasting impact.
Thank you to Dr. Gonzalez for her outstanding contributions, and congratulations to Dr. Acosta Pozo on this achievement.
These successes reflect the strength of leadership and the outstanding work happening at UTRGV–Knapp.
Congratulations!
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We're incredibly thankful for our community partners whose support continues to make a lasting impact on our students. Their dedication has truly enriched students' educational journey!
Pictured in this photo are (Left to right) Gregorio Torres, practice manager at Cute Pediatrics; Elizabeth Palomo, academic coordinator; Dr. Syed K. Shah, pediatrics community faculty; Dr. Tara P. Vierra, chief of Women & Children's Health Division; Mariacarmen Marroquin, medical student; and Marie Ordaz, clinical staff at Cute Pediatrics Clinic.
| | UTRGV Professional Development Day | | |
UTRGV School of Medicine was well represented at UTRGV's Professional Development Day, where faculty and staff gathered to learn strategies for career growth and leadership success.
Dr. Chelsea Chang, Associate Dean of Graduate Medical Education and Chair of Primary and Community Care, and Veronica Villarreal, AVP of Operations at UT Health RGV, led a session titled "Self-Discovery as a Path to Leadership Success." They shared advice for advancing in one's career, overcoming imposter syndrome, and navigating professional challenges.
Additionally, Amy Stout, Director of Accreditation and New Program Development; Teresa Villagomez, GME Program Coordinator; and Sonia Padilla, GME Program Manager, presented "Training Tuesdays: Using Microlearning to Drive Professional Growth and Team Success in Graduate Medical Education," offering staff innovative tools to support ongoing learning and team development.
| | UTRGV School of Medicine Psychiatry faculty and residents showcase expertise at AACAP 2025 | | |
Dr. Alcides Amador, Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist at UTRGV School of Medicine, presented on a panel at the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) 2025 Conference in Chicago. His presentation, "Measurement Based Care: Evidence, Clinical Impacts, and Barriers to Effective Implementation," explored strategies for improving patient outcomes in child and adolescent psychiatry. Together with clinicians from UTSW, UTMB, and Texas Tech, he highlighted a shared commitment to advancing mental health care.
UTRGV School of Medicine Psychiatry residents also made a strong showing, presenting posters at the conference, an impressive accomplishment that demonstrates their growing expertise and research contributions.
UTRGV School of Medicine faculty and residents continue to showcase the school's excellence in psychiatry on a global stage and highlight the impact of their work in both clinical care and academic research.
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Dr. Carlos Mondragón joins UT Health RGV as a new Family Medicine doctor.
Dr. Mondragón received his medical degree from Universidad Americana (UAM) in Nicaragua and completed his Family Medicine residency at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley in 2025. He is a board-certified Family Medicine physician at UT Health RGV and serves as an assistant professor of Family and Community Medicine at the UTRGV School of Medicine.
As a family medicine physician, Dr. Mondragón provides comprehensive care for patients of all ages, with a special interest in women's health. He enjoys caring for patients throughout all stages of life, focusing on preventive care and the management of chronic conditions. Dr. Mondragón is passionate about advocacy and education, striving to create a welcoming environment where patients feel supported, informed, and empowered to make decisions about their health and well-being.
Welcome!
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Joshua Trevino, PA-C, joins UT Health RGV as a new physician assistant.
He is a board-certified physician assistant at UT Health RGV. He graduated from Weslaco High School and earned his bachelor's degree in biology from The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley in 2018. He went on to complete his Master of Physician Assistant Studies at UTRGV in 2023.
He has a strong background in orthopedics and sports medicine and is dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate care to patients across the Rio Grande Valley. He is committed to helping individuals recover from injuries, improve mobility, and return to the activities they love through evidence-based, patient-centered treatment.
Welcome!
| | Dr. Wilbur "Bo" Bowne joins UTRGV School of Medicine as Chair of Surgery | | |
Dr. Wilbur "Bo" Bowne has joined the UTRGV School of Medicine as chair of the Department of Surgery. He comes to UTRGV from Thomas Jefferson University, where he served as professor of Surgery at the Sidney Kimmel Medical College, section chief of Surgical Oncology, and director of the Peritoneal Surface Malignancy Program.
A board-certified surgeon and nationally recognized surgical oncologist, Dr. Bowne specializes in complex gastrointestinal cancers and peritoneal surface malignancies. He earned his medical degree from the State University of New York Health Science Center at Brooklyn, completed surgical training at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, and completed research and surgical oncology fellowships at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.
Dr. Bowne has a distinguished record of leadership, research, and mentorship, and he looks forward to advancing patient care, surgical education, and research in the Rio Grande Valley.
Welcome, Dr. Bowne!
| | Breast Cancer Awareness event in Alamo | | |
The Rio Grande Valley Cancer Health Disparities Research Center Community Engagement Core hosted a Breast Cancer Awareness event at the Community Advancement Center Precinct 2 in Alamo, drawing more than 60 community members and 20-plus partner organizations.
Hidalgo County Program Manager Augusto Contreras opened by calling for early screening and better access to preventive care. Survivors Ercilia Ramírez of UTRGV Healthy Mujeres and Claudia Salgado of Connection Center RGV shared powerful testimonies about their diagnoses, treatment, and recovery. Organizations offered resources and services, including on-site vaccinations from Genoa Healthcare.
Belinda Montejano of the Engagement Core wrapped up with guidance on early detection and breast cancer prevention.
The event highlighted the center's continued push to strengthen partnerships and advance cancer care across the Valley.
Thank you to those who participated!
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More than 200 community members turned out for the La Victoria AHEC Health Education and Promotion Pachanga at the Hope and Help Center, where families connected with health resources, screenings, and wellness education.
The event was made possible through support from the Hope & Help Center staff, UTRGV AHEC Scholars, Commissioner Eleazar Velasquez, UT Health RGV AHEC Primary Care La Victoria, the Women's Health Team, the Rio Grande Valley Cancer Health Disparities Research Center, Starr County leaders, the South Texas Food Bank, and numerous vendors, agencies, and community partners.
Together, they're helping build a healthier, stronger Rio Grande Valley.
Thank you to those who participated!
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The UTRGV-KNAPP Internal Medicine Residency Team presented their resident-led "Back to Bedside" project at the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) headquarters in Chicago, focusing on fostering empathy, promoting wellness, and reducing burnout among residents.
During this second national meeting, they shared their progress, lessons learned, and the challenges encountered in bringing humanity back to the heart of clinical training.
A special highlight was when one of the participating residents, Dr. Tatiana Dacak, was invited by the ACGME Communications Team to an interview spotlighting the program's journey and impact — a proud moment for all of us!
Congratulations!
| | SOM shines at the Texas ACP Annual Meeting | | |
The UTRGV School of Medicine had a strong and inspiring presence at this year's Texas American College of Physicians (ACP) Annual Meeting. Students, residents, faculty, community faculty, and alumni from the UTRGV Internal Medicine residency programs came together to learn, network, and champion for quality health care for all Texans.
Highlights from the meeting include:
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Dr. Carlos Ramos – Served as a veteran instructor in the POCUS Workshop and was elected to the Texas ACP Board of Directors. Congratulations, Dr. Ramos!
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Dr. Chelsea Chang – From her first involvement as an MS1 in the GIMSPP Program to her current leadership, Dr. Chang was elected president of the Texas ACP.
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UTRGV-Knapp and UTRGV-HCA Internal Medicine residents – Won the preliminary rounds of the Medical Jeopardy ("Doctor's Dilemma") competition and represented UTRGV at the state level.
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Five UTRGV medical students – Presented research abstracts at the state level, showcasing our commitment to advancing academic medicine.
We are incredibly proud of our students, residents, faculty, and alumni for their achievements and for representing UTRGV SOM with excellence. Together, we continue to elevate academic medicine and make a lasting impact on the health of our communities and our profession.
Congratulations!
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The fifth annual SCALPPEL (Surgical Course for Adolescent Latinx Pursuing Physician Education & Leadership) event gave high school students a hands-on introduction to the field of surgery.
Planned and led by UTRGV medical students in partnership with the AHEC Program, the event was designed to inspire future physicians by connecting students with practicing surgeons and offering opportunities to learn surgery-related skills in a supportive setting.
Participating schools included
- South Texas ISD Health Professions,
- South Texas ISD Science Academy,
- Veterans Memorial ECHS, and
- South Texas ISD Medical Professions.
UTRGV medical students Yolanda G., Jennifer E., Kaylin A., Kevin G., Maci O., and Robert S. served on the planning committee.
Faculty supporters included Ann McCracken, MD; Evan D. Perez, MD; and Angela M. Tanguma, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC.
Together, the group continues to help shape the next generation of physicians.
Thank you to those who participated!
| Division Chief of Population Health and Biostatistics | |
Dr. Candace Robledo has been named division chief of Population Health and Biostatistics.
A faculty member since 2017, Dr. Robledo has played a key role in advancing community-engaged research, including leading the NIH-funded South Texas CEAL Initiative and helping launch the UTRGV Maternal Health Research Center, which became an Organized Research Unit in 2024.
She has also contributed to the school's mission through service on major committees and mentorship of students and trainees.
Her appointment marks a new chapter for the Division of Population Health as it broadens its community impact and strengthens support for investigators across the School of Medicine and the Division of Health Affairs.
Congratulations, Dr. Robledo!
| | Bringing Women’s Wellness on the Move | | |
The Rio Grande Valley Cancer Health Disparities Center – Community Engagement Core launched its first-ever Unimóvil event at the Community Advancement Center Precinct 2 in Alamo, Texas.
This milestone event brought preventive women's health services directly to the community, offering pelvic exams, Pap smears, and clinical breast exams, along with referrals for mammograms, colonoscopies, and bone density screenings.
Financial assistance was available for those who qualified, ensuring access to care for all.
The Community Engagement Core, funded by the NIH RCMI grant, led this effort focused on cervical cancer screening and early detection—reinforcing the school's commitment to improving women's health and reducing cancer disparities across the Rio Grande Valley.
Thank you to those who made this event possible!
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The Women's Bar Section of the Hidalgo County Bar Association organized the amazing Lo-tata-ría fundraiser in support of breast cancer awareness and prevention.
The event brought together members of the legal community for an evening of lotería, laughter, and generosity. All funds raised will support the UTHealth Community Outreach Clinic in San Carlos, helping provide essential preventive care, such as mammograms, to uninsured patients.
Thank you to Jorge Rodriguez, AHEC medical office manager, for his help with organizing and making this event possible!
| | American Public Health Association Annual Meeting | | |
Nearly 12,000 public health professionals gathered in Washington, D.C., for the 2025 American Public Health Association Annual Meeting (APHA), the largest public health convening of the year.
Dr. LuBeth Pérez played a key leadership role through her work with APHA's Public Health Education and Health Promotion Section, where she oversees the review and selection of about 400 scientific abstracts each year. She also serves as membership co-chair for the Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drugs Section, supporting student development and scholarship.
As a Certified in Public Health Ambassador, Dr. Pérez works with the National Board of Public Health Examiners on exam development and a new foundational certification. At the conference, she presented research on health literacy and the social determinants of health, and joined a panel on credentialing, mentorship, and workforce development.
Her leadership and scholarship continue to strengthen public health education and workforce development locally and nationwide.
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The UTRGV School of Medicine and UT Health RGV hosted a Walk with a Doc event in McAllen, led by Dr. Daniela Hernandez, an internal medicine physician at UT Health RGV Multispecialty. Community members joined to walk at their own pace, learn about building healthy daily habits for better digestion, and connect with health professionals and medical students in a relaxed setting.
The walk also recognized Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month and encouraged participants to prioritize preventive health. The event was coordinated by medical student lead Sriya Gullapalli.
Thank you to those who joined and participated!
| | Click below to see School of Medicine and University-wide events. | | |
The University of Texas
Rio Grande Valley School of Medicine
Phone: (956) 296-1900
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