August 2023

Here's a recap of all the School of Medicine events that recently took place!

School of Medicine

UT Health RGV

News and Events

UTRGV School of Medicine Class of ’27 celebrates annual

White Coat Ceremony

The UTRGV School of Medicine officially welcomed the Class of 2027 with a White Coat Ceremony on Saturday, July 29, in Edinburg at the UTRGV Edinburg Campus - Performing Arts Complex. The ceremony marks a significant first step in the career of future physicians, symbolizing a rite of passage at medical schools nationwide.

Operation Border Health Preparedness

First-year medical students and SOM faculty and staff participated in Operation Border Health Preparedness.

Community members received free medical, dental, and vision services from the UTRGV School of Medicine and other community programs through this event.

Thank you to everyone who made this event possible. We are proud to be a part of this vital community service initiative!

House Staff Core Curriculum Presenter of the Year (2022-2023)

Congratulations to Dr. Marsha Griffin, who was chosen for the House Staff Core Curriculum Presenter of the Year (2022-2023) award, announced at the UTSW Pediatrics Department Meeting.

This recognition was awarded by the UTSW Pediatrics Residency Program for a comprehensive and engaging lecture, deemed as a stellar presentation in the advancement of resident education.

Residents commented that Dr. Griffin “provided insightful and inspiring ways pediatricians can advocate for their patients, particularly about immigrant and border health.”

Congratulations, Dr. Griffin!

Marsha Griffin, MD, FAAP

Prof. of Pediatrics

SOM student and Winn CIPP scholar training at

UofL School of Medicine

Brianna Guillen

UTRGV School of Medicine Student

Congratulations to UTRGV School of Medicine student Brianna Guillen, who was among four students from other U.S. medical schools who spent six weeks at the UofL School of Medicine this summer.

She participated in a service-learning externship designed to expose talented medical students of diverse backgrounds to community-engaged clinical and translational research.

The Robert A. Winn Diversity in Clinical Trials: Clinical Investigator Pathway Program (Winn CIPP) offers a distinctive approach to increasing diversity in clinical trials by providing medical students with a six-week intensive and immersive experience in underserved communities where underrepresented patients receive care.

Congratulations, Brianna!

Second MedEd Teaching Certificate Program Cohort graduates

Congratulations to the second cohort for the MedEd Teaching Certificate Program. This significant milestone marks the completion of a nine-month journey to enhance the professional development of clinical full-time and volunteer faculty members as medical educators.

The MedEd Teaching Certificate Program provided participants with a comprehensive and immersive experience that embraced best teaching practices. Throughout the program, participants received expert instruction, engaging in interactive educational approaches and cultivating innovative teaching strategies through in-depth coursework, collaborative projects, and dynamic group discussions.

Congratulations to the MedEd participants for their dedication and commitment to advocating for best practices in medical education. Their accomplishments in this program will undoubtedly contribute to the advancement of healthcare education.

SOM welcomes Class of 2027

The UTRGV School of Medicine proudly welcomed the incoming Class of 2027 at orientation week.

An estimated 55 students were in attendance to embark on their journey to become medical professionals.

The School of Medicine officially welcomed its newest students with a White Coat Ceremony in July. The ceremony marks the beginning of a medical student’s education and career.

Interprofessional Education (IPE)

The UTRGV-SOM Office of Interprofessional Education (IPE) successfully hosted the first IPE learning activity as part of the clinical foundation's course in collaboration with the Department of Physician Assistant. This activity aimed to strengthen interprofessional teamwork and communication skills in the context of diabetic care, with the ultimate goal of enhancing healthcare outcomes.

The event brought together 154 students, comprising 61 third-year medical students and 93 physician assistant students. This diverse mix provided a unique opportunity for mutual learning and understanding, contributing to advancing border health in the Rio Grande Valley.

Student Spotlight

Meet UTRGV MS2, Zayd Ayas

The UTRGV School of Medicine is a practicing academic medical institution. What aspect of Academic Medicine impacts you the most?

I am mainly interested in the clinical aspect of medicine. While I do find research and the development of techniques and treatments fascinating, the reason I chose medicine is the human aspect of the profession. Learning how to treat patients and ensure they are cared for is very important to me.

Learning from physicians who prioritize patient care above all else is what makes me proud of the medical field and my decision to join the healthcare working force.

Learn More About Ayas Here.

Faculty Focus

Academic Medical Minute

Cesar Gutierrez, MD

Asst. Prof. of Internal Medicine

When did you join the UTRGV School of Medicine?

I joined the UTRGV School of Medicine in 2015 as part of the inaugural class of residents of Internal Medicine. Then, as an assistant professor, in 2019, after completing my 4th-year chief residency at my program.

What brought you here?

UTRGV opened the doors for me to become a practicing physician in the Valley in my dream specialty. I want to give back for the opportunity; I want to give back to my community. Also, I align with the vision of the School of Medicine. I want to make a positive impact in the Valley.

What do you enjoy about working in Academic Medicine?

I enjoy working in academic medicine because we can see how our actions, experiences, and knowledge impact our learners (i.e., students and residents).

Why is academic medicine important to our community?

Academic medicine is essential because we need to train our physicians well. For years, we have had a shortage in access to care. The best way to address this is to create opportunities for our youngest to become physicians willing to care for the community. Also, we need to train them to become researchers to better understand our community's needs.

How do you spend your free time?

Lately, I've been enjoying my one-year-old growing up every day. I enjoy watching TV shows, playing video games, reading, and staying updated with my medical knowledge.

In the News