Advancing Public Health:

Dr. LuBeth Pérez Contributes to National Efforts

A diverse group of six women sit around a large conference table in a modern office, engaged in discussion. A colorful map decorates the back wall.

Dr. LuBeth Pérez, assistant professor in the Division of Population Health and Biostatistics at the UTRGV School of Medicine, was selected by the National Board of Public Health Examiners to participate in a Certified in Public Health (CPH) exam development meeting in Arlington, Virginia.

A CPH-certified professional and ambassador, she contributed to shaping national certification standards and recently shared her expertise at the South Texas All Hazards Conference in McAllen.

In recognition of National Public Health Week, the School of Medicine celebrates Dr. Pérez's leadership in strengthening the public health workforce and advancing community health.

Congratulations!

Closing Gaps in Human Connection:

MS2 Student Published in JBJS

A man with a beard wearing a gray suit and pink tie stands confidently against a neutral background, conveying professionalism and composure.

The stretcher locked into the ambulance with a soft clunk as Mohammad Khalil stepped into his first shift as an emergency medical technician, confident in his clinical skills and eager to grow. What followed, however, would shape his understanding of medicine in a far deeper way.

Now a UTRGV School of Medicine medical student, Khalil (MS2) was recently published in The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery for his narrative piece, "¿Hablas Ingles?" The story reflects on the critical role of language, culture and empathy in patient care, and the importance of meeting patients where they are.

Through his experience, Khalil highlights how communication extends beyond words — serving as a bridge to trust, dignity and connection in clinical settings.

Mentored by Dr. Robert Schenck, clinical professor of medicine in the Surgical Specialty and MSK ISU, Khalil's work underscores a powerful lesson: closing gaps in health care often begins with closing gaps in human connection.

Congratulations!

MS1 Selected for Prestigious Oncology Internship

UTRGV School of Medicine medical student Nafiza Meher (MS1) has been selected for a competitive summer internship with the Penn State Research Training in Oncology and Medicine (PROMISE) Program.

A leader among her peers, Meher serves as president of the Hematology and Oncology Student Interest Group and vice president of the Pediatrics Student Interest Group. During the internship, she will work with Dr. Monika Joshi to analyze genetic data from clinical trials, further advancing her interests in oncology research.

Her selection reflects both her academic achievement and leadership, as well as her commitment to advancing cancer research and improving patient care.

Congratulations!

UTRGV Internal Medicine Selected to Host

Southwest Texas ACP Regional Meeting

Dr. Carlos T. Ramos Jr., associate program director and associate professor of internal medicine at the UTRGV School of Medicine, has been invited to host the Southwest Texas American College of Physicians (ACP) meeting, highlighting the strength of the school's internal medicine program.

In this role, Dr. Ramos will lead the development of a regional virtual conference, including a clinical vignette competition that will advance a trainee to the Texas ACP Scientific Meeting. The event will provide an opportunity to showcase the academic excellence, scholarship and clinical training of UTRGV internal medicine residents and faculty.

His selection reflects the continued growth and statewide recognition of the UTRGV internal medicine program, as well as its commitment to advancing medical education.

Congratulations!

Casting and Splinting Workshop Provides

Hands-On Training for Students

GIF showcasing three images. One shows a group of diverse, happy individuals gathered in a bright green room, holding colorful bottles, posing with smiles and peace signs, conveying a joyful, relaxed atmosphere. Another shows four people around a table practicing casting techniques. Two wear black shirts, and one observes. Boxes and medical supplies are scattered. Engaged and focused atmosphere, and finally, a diverse group of students in a classroom engages with medical equipment at a table. They seem focused and eager to learn. Boxes and supplies are scattered around, with green chairs and a bright green wall in the background.

Dr. Evan Perez, a primary care and sports medicine physician and associate professor in the Department of Surgical Specialty and MSK ISU, led a casting and splinting workshop for medical students. The event was hosted by UTRGV School of Medicine medical student interest groups.

The hands-on session provided students with practical experience in applying casts and splints, reinforcing key clinical skills used in the management of acute musculoskeletal injuries. Students practiced techniques in a collaborative learning environment, strengthening both their confidence and procedural knowledge.

The workshop highlights the School of Medicine's commitment to experiential learning and preparing students with the skills needed for patient care.

New Hire -- Welcome!

A smiling man in a white lab coat and tie stands against a turquoise background, conveying a professional and approachable demeanor.

The UTRGV School of Medicine welcomed Dr. Eric Wilkinson, an orthopedic surgeon with UT Health RGV, to its faculty.

Dr. Wilkinson specializes in orthopedics and sports medicine, with expertise in the care of athletic and active-lifestyle injuries. He is committed to advancing patient care through innovative techniques and a focus on improving mobility and quality of life.

His addition strengthens the School of Medicine's efforts to expand access to specialized musculoskeletal care and support the health and wellness of communities across the Rio Grande Valley.

Welcome!