July 21-25, 2025

WesternU’s Dr. Michel Baudry receives France’s National Order of Merit for his contributions to science and international collaboration

Western University of Health Sciences College of Dental Medicine Professor Michel Baudry, PhD, (pictured, center) received the Insignia of Chevalier de l’Ordre National du Mérite, a prestigious honor bestowed by France to acknowledge his contributions to understanding the mechanisms of learning and memory and for bridging the scientific communities of France and the U.S.


Dr. Baudry’s contributions to the field of neuroscience have not only advanced our understanding of the human brain, but also strengthened the ties between France and the U.S., Adrien Frier, Consul General of France in Los Angeles, said when presenting the National Order of Merit award. Dr. Baudry has more than 400 peer-reviewed publications and is among the 100 most cited neuroscientists, according to the Institute for Scientific Information database.


“Beyond your scientific accomplishments, and as you can see there are many of them, you have been a tireless advocate for Franco-American cooperation. Your efforts in fostering scientific exchanges and your constant support to the endeavors by the Office of Science and Technology here at the Consulate in Los Angeles have been instrumental in strengthening the bonds between the scientific communities of our two nations,” Frier said. “Your dedication to mentoring and nurturing the next generation of great scientists reflects your belief in the power of education and collaboration. You have shown by your career by your actions that science is not only just about discovery, but also about building relationships and fostering a sense of community that transcends border.”


Read the full story: WesternU’s Dr. Michel Baudry receives France’s National Order of Merit for his contributions to science and international collaboration | WesternU News

College of Optometry news

Each year, the WesternU College of Optometry proudly supports Special Olympics Southern California (SOSC) by sending faculty and students to provide vision care through the “Opening Eyes” program.


This initiative is part of the Healthy Athletes services offered during the SOSC Summer Games—the culminating championship event for the spring training season—held this year from June 6–8 at California State University, Long Beach.


WesternU volunteers performed comprehensive vision screenings and distributed prescription glasses and sports goggles, serving more than 200 athletes at the event.


A special thank you to Dr. John "JT" Tassinari for his leadership and coordination, and to all the dedicated student and faculty volunteers who made this effort possible.

The College of Optometry celebrated National Sunglasses Day on June 27 by inviting alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends to join the "Stay Shady" campaign on social media. This campaign provided a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with alumni and friends. Thank you to everyone who participated.


A special thank you to The Vision Council Foundation for their continued efforts in raising awareness about the importance of UV eye protection.


CHS and CHS-Northwest news

CHS-Northwest Assistant Professor Neha Dewan, PT, MPT, PhD, in collaboration with her colleagues published two new papers:

 

Crozier O, Lo E, Dewan N, et al. End-of-Life Conversations With Adult Patients and Their Families: An Evidence-based Guide for Occupational and Physical Therapists. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. Published online May 1, 2025. DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2025.03.045

 

Dewan N, Whiting A, Ghulam Z, Dutta T. Barriers and facilitators to park accessibility: a scoping review of YouTube videos. World Leis J. 2025;1-26. https://doi.org/10.1080/16078055.2025.2516646

MSPA Class of 2026 student Valerie Leung won gold at the Team USA Taekwondo Selection Event and will be representing the United States at the 2025 World Championships in Barcelona later this month. From daily training since 2023 to dominating the adult women’s third-degree division, Leung's dedication, discipline, and drive are unmatched. Her MSPA family is so proud of everything she’s accomplished and can’t wait to watch her shine on the international stage!

Instagram link.

Welcome

Please welcome the following recent hires to WesternU:


CVM: Maria Herrera, Student Affairs Coordinator

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