Tag: Diversity

Honors Student Presents Research at International Dental Conference

Janaki Chandra

Farquhar Honors College student Janaki Chandra presented her dental research at the American Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research (AADOCR) conference in Portland, Oregon. Completed as part of her honors thesis, Chandra’s research investigates whether S-PRG filler, a biomaterial commonly used in dental care, affects osteoclast generation, a type of cell responsible for bone resorption.

While presenting her research, Chandra was fortunate enough to meet executives from the company that makes the S-PRG filler at the center of her research.

“I felt so much joy seeing how enthusiastic [the executives] were. [They] were so kind and mentioned many thanks and were so proud of the research being conducted!” said Chandra, a senior biology major.

She was inspired to pursue this research because of her passion for dentistry and its constant evolution and growth. She aspires to become a dentist one day.

“I [am] so beyond grateful for Dean Nevins and the Honors College for allowing me to present [my] research at the AADOCR conference,” said Chandra, who was the only undergraduate student presenting in her section of the conference. “It was such an enriching experience meeting a variety of scholarly researchers, and to be able to present collaborative research after almost two years [was] the most rewarding part.”

Posted 08/20/23

Education Alum Publishes Article on Symbolic Violence

Nahum Jean-Louis, Ed.D.

Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice graduate Nahum Jean-Louis, Ed.D., is celebrating the publishing of his article “Symbolic Violence in The Classroom: How A Eurocentric Curriculum Excludes & Marginalizes Minority Students” in the journal Belonging.

The article was co-written by Mary Clisbee, Ed.D., and focuses on symbolic violence and how it excludes and marginalizes minority students.

Jean-Louis explained that symbolic violence is any violence that isn’t tangible, for example, verbal assault, racism, using disparaging terms and more.

The article came about after Jean-Louis and Clisbee gave a talk at a conference about diversity. After the presentation, the pair was contacted and asked to write an article detailing their research.

In their article, Jean-Louis and Clisbee discussed how Eurocentrism gives priority to European philosophy and history at the detriment of minority students.

“Minority students have their own cultures, experiences and history, and those are put on the back burner in favor of European culture,” Jean-Louis said. “Minority students are forced to learn from a culture or from a knowledge in which they don’t relate to. And as a result of that, because they can’t relate to it and because their experiences are sidelined or marginalized, they suffer in terms of performance.”

They then went on to explain ways to combat symbolic violence and Eurocentrism.

“One way that I suggested, in my research, to mitigate the effects of symbolic violence and the effects of Eurocentrism is to create a diverse curriculum and to have equity in the curriculum,” Jean-Louis said.

The pair hope that a variety of people can learn and benefit from the research.

“Our message was directed to school administrators, policymakers, and the community at large,” Jean-Louis said.

Jean-Louis graduated from NSU with his doctorate in Curriculum and Teaching. He is currently working on several other projects, including a collaborative book on decolonization in education and a book that focuses on the problems minority students face in the United States school system.

Read the complete article.

Posted 08/13/23

NSU PT Professor Receives Excellence in Research Award

Alicia Fernandez-Fernandez, D.P.T., Ph.D., PT, CNT, a professor in NSU’s Physical Therapy Department, was recognized with the National Association of Neonatal Therapists (NANT) Excellence in Research Award at the NANT conference in April 2023.

This annual award was created to honor neonatal occupational therapists, physical therapists, or speech-language pathologists who tirelessly contribute to quality research in the specialized field of neonatal therapy. Fernandez-Fernandez maintains clinical practice in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) since 2003, and she holds a neonatal therapist certification (Certified Neonatal Therapist), which recognizes the neonatal therapy expertise, education, and knowledge needed to effectively serve high-risk infants and families in the NICU.

She is also a Neonatal Developmental Care Specialist. She serves as a board member of the Neonatal Therapy Certification Board since 2014, and is the exam liaison for neonatal therapy certification, responsible for the training of item writers, and development, deployment, and outcome analysis of the international certification exam.

Additionally, she participates in development, deployment, and outcome evaluation of the neonatal therapy practice analysis, leading to multiple publications that explore ongoing trends in this clinical area of practice. She has presented at national and international conferences on various neonatal therapy topics including neonatal referral patterns, safe sleep protocols, and neonatal certification.

She has also contributed to the Spanish translation of the first and second editions of the SENSE program, which provides education to engage families in providing developmentally appropriate positive sensory exposures to optimize outcomes for their infants.

At NSU, Fernandez-Fernandez collaborates with Raquel Garcia, S.L.P., CCC-SLP, CNT, BCS-S, an associate professor in NSU’s Speech-Language Pathology Department, and Daphna Barbeau, M.D., medical director of Neonatal Neurodevelopment at Envision Health and HCA (Hospital Corporation of America) Florida University Hospital, in the Tiny Tots Transition to Home program, a weekly education program series which is offered to caregivers of infants in the NICU at HCA Florida University Hospital with the goal of improving caregiver-child attachment and reducing caregiver stress.

The program is funded by an NSU Quality of Life grant and involves the collaboration of multiple departments at NSU.

Posted 08/13/23

Criminal Justice Alum Helps Previously Incarcerated People

Siena Benson

Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice alum Siena Benson is using her degree to help people who were once incarcerated build a better life.

Benson recently graduated with her M.S. in Criminal Justice. Now, she is working as Community Navigator for the New York City-based nonprofit organization Housing Works. Benson works with the Justice Initiatives Department providing re-entry services for people who have been through the criminal justice system and helps connect them to mental health services, employment resources, housing and more.

“My position is really special because I’m the only one that actually gets to go inside Rikers Island and meet with people where they’re at,” Benson said. “I get to listen to what people need, and I get them set up to have services upon release.”

Benson said she feels lucky to work in such an impactful position.

“I get to work in one of the most historical prisons in the country,” she said. “Actually being there is, honestly — it’s outstanding. And outstanding in the sense that it’s an outlier, you know, not a lot of people get to go in, and not a lot of people get this experience.”

Working directly in the system, Benson gets to see the other side of incarceration and how those inside hope to improve their lives after getting out.

“I feel that the prison population is a population that is overlooked. People are serving their time, but they’re still people,” Benson said. “They’re struggling, they’re paying their dues … I think everybody can agree that once they’re released, nobody wants to go back to prison, and nobody wants to get in trouble again.”

Benson said she doesn’t know what’s in store for her in the future, but she hopes to continue working to give back.

“I see myself being successful and being a leader for people who need it the most — being that person who can guide people in the right direction and help people out.”

Posted 07/30/23

Halmos Student Presents Workshop on Developing Business Strategies

James Oyetunji, M.P.A.

James Oyetunji, M.P.A., doctoral student in the Department of Conflict Resolution Studies (DCRS) in the Halmos College of Arts and Sciences and the Guy Harvey Oceanographic Research Center (HCAS), presented a workshop titled “Developing Business Strategies with the Approach of Interpersonal and Organizational Conflict.” The workshop was hosted by Community Resolution Services (CRS) housed in the Department of Conflict Resolution Studies (DCRS) in HCAS.

CRS is a practicum and volunteer site providing workshops, training, and other events to the NSU and local community. For more information about CRS, please contact Judith McKay, J.D., Ph.D., faculty in DCRS at mckayj@nova.edu.

Posted 07/30/23

Summer Camp Delivers Cutting-Edge Health Care Experience

Students work with Lucina, NSU’s Birth Simulator.

Nova Southeastern University’s Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine opened its doors to high-schoolers through its AIM-High program – a five-day medical school immersive summer camp held from July 17 to July 21 on NSU’s Fort Lauderdale/Davie Campus.

Achieve in Medicine (AIM) – High is designed for academically strong freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior high school students who are interested in pursuing a career in the health professions. AIM-High will provide students with hands-on medical experiences, which include the role of technology in the diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions.

Camp participants were able to get seven-plus hours of instruction each day and will learn alongside NSU medical students and faculty.

Among the student experiences this summer were the:

  • SIMTIC Simulator, where students practiced intubation skills, obtained vital signs from the medical student volunteers, and listened to heart and lung sounds on our high-fidelity manikins.
  • Sports Medicine-Splinting Skills Lab, where students learned about using a splint for fractures and other injuries.
  • Labor, delivery, and newborn infant care, where students were exposed to the Lucina Birth Simulator.
  • Immersive Learning Technology in Medical Education, where students received interactive immersive hands-on experience with Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR) 3D Anatomy and Mixed Reality (MR).

Posted 07/30/23

NSU Jamaica Medical/Dental Mission Heals Hearts, Smiles

From July 17 to July 22, 2023, a remarkable event took place in St. Mary, Jamaica, as Nova Southeastern University (NSU) embarked on a transformative medical/dental mission. This interdisciplinary mission brought together professionals and students from various healthcare fields, including Medicine, Dental, Nursing, Pharmacy, Optometry, Occupational Therapy, and a host of volunteers. Their collective efforts not only provided much-needed health-care services but also left a lasting impact on the lives of the local community.

The mission was organized by NSU in collaboration with Women of H.O.P.E., a local non-profit organization that provides healthcare and education to women and children. Its primary objective was to extend a helping hand to the underserved population in St. Mary, who faced limited access to medical and dental services. The mission’s diverse team of dedicated healthcare practitioners aimed to address a range of health issues, including dental problems that often went untreated.

The dental component of the mission was particularly remarkable. Three experienced dentists, along with 12 talented dental students, came together to deliver vital dental care to those in need. Over the course of the mission, these compassionate professionals provided dental services to an impressive 275 patients, ranging from cleanings to more complex procedures like fillings and extractions.

What made the NSU Jamaica Medical/Dental Mission even more exceptional was the generosity of the team and their supporters. With more $175,000 in donated services, this mission truly exemplified the power of altruism and the positive impact it can have on underserved communities. The donated services not only alleviated immediate health concerns but also contributed to the patient’s overall well-being and quality of life.

Apart from providing hands-on care, the medical and dental teams also conducted informative presentations on various health-related topics. These presentations covered crucial aspects of oral and general health, including preventive measures, hygiene practices, and the importance of early detection and treatment. The mission aimed to create a sustainable impact by educating the community, and empowering individuals to take charge of their health and well-being.

The NSU Jamaica Medical/Dental Mission was about more than just medical and dental treatments; it was a mission of healing hearts and smiles. The warmth and compassion exhibited by the team left a lasting impression on the patients they served. Beyond the physical healing, the mission also fostered emotional and psychological healing, reminding the community that they were not forgotten and that they mattered.

The impact of this interdisciplinary mission extended far beyond the week it took place. The team not only treated patients but also formed valuable connections with the local healthcare providers and organizations. Collaborative efforts like these can create a lasting change in healthcare infrastructure and access in underserved areas.

The success of the NSU Jamaica Medical/Dental Mission 2023 was a testament to the power of teamwork, dedication, and the spirit of giving back. By coming together, these professionals and students were able to make a tangible difference in the lives of hundreds of individuals, leaving a legacy of care and compassion that will be cherished by the community for years to come.

The NSU Jamaica Medical/Dental Mission 2023 was a remarkable endeavor that showcased the potential of interdisciplinary collaboration in healthcare. Through the efforts of Medical, Dental, Nursing, Pharmacy, Occupational Therapy, Optometry, students, and volunteers, the mission delivered critical services, educational support, and compassion to the people of St. Mary, Jamaica. It was a shining example of how healthcare can be a force for good, transcending borders and bringing healing to the hearts and smiles of those in need.”

Posted 07/30/23

Students Present Science at International Society of Sports Nutrition Conference

Faculty and students from the Department of Health and Human Performance (HHP) in the Dr. Pallavi Patel College of Health Care Sciences, recently presented their latest research at the 20th Annual ISSN Conference and Expo, June 15-17, at the Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort in Fort Lauderdale.

Two of our Master of Science in Sport Science (M.S.S.S.) graduates, Jose Rojas and Angie Dusak gave oral presentations. Jose Rojas gave a ‘brief communication’ talk covering his latest work under the tutelage of Jose Antonio, Ph.D., professor, on the effects of a commercially available energy drink on indices of mood and mental performance. Angie Dusak took part in ISSN’s Data Blitz. In 60 seconds, she presented data on football players that was part of her master’s work with Corey Peacock, Ph.D., chair, program director, and professor. Also, Antonio and Peacock gave tutorial and poster presentations, respectively.

One of our more accomplished alums and current HHP adjunct faculty member, Cassandra Evans, M.S., gave a presentation on the effects of a dietary supplement on e-gamer performance. Evans has already notched over 20 peer-reviewed publications since starting as an undergraduate student at NSU Florida. In addition, we had 8 HHP students as authors and co-authors of NSU research at the conference. All in all, NSU was well represented at the international meeting that had individuals from Australia, Brazil, the UK, and Mexico among the attendees.

Posted 07/30/23

Library Opens Door to Financial Literacy to Boys and Girls Clubs

NSU alum Franklin Renwick Jr. reads from his book “The Adventures of Fly’mingoo Banking.”

Nova Southeastern University’s Alvin Sherman Library invited the Boys and Girls Clubs of Broward County to visit the library on Wednesday, July 12.

The “Fun and Financial Literacy” event featured a tour of the library, lunch in the gallery, and a book reading by NSU alum Franklin Renwick Jr. from his book “The Adventures of Fly’mingoo Banking.”

The boys and girls all received gift bags with a copy of Renwick’s book, which focuses on financial literacy for youth.

Posted 07/18/23

Arreva/NSU Philanthropic Summit Draws Notable National, Local Speakers

On Wednesday, July 12, 2023, Arreva and Nova Southeastern University presented the “Driven by Cause Philanthropic Summit” at the Alan B. Levan I NSU Broward Center of Innovation on NSU’s Davie Campus. This year’s inaugural summit marked the first of many to come, and featured renowned national and local speakers, executive directors, funders, sports foundations, and educators.

David Blyer, president and CEO of Arreva and NSU alum, and Dean Andrew Rosman of NSU’s H. Wayne Huizenga College of Business and Entrepreneurship (HCBE) were the main hosts of the all-day event.

Among the speakers were Jennifer O’Flannery Anderson, president and CEO of the Community Foundation of Broward; Soraya Rivera-Moya, executive director of the Ronald McDonald House of South Florida; Adam Williams, Ph.D., associate professor of Public Administration at HCBE; Kuang-Ting Tai, Ph.D., assistant professor of Public Administration at HCBE; Michael Thatcher, president and CEO of Charity Navigator; Steve Higgins, president and CEO of Carter; and Nathan Chappell, co-author of “The Generosity Crisis.” There was also a roundtable panel conversation featuring Javier Sanchez, executive director for Miami Dolphins Challenge Cancer, and Sarah Martin, senior director of the Miami Marlins Youth Academy & Foundation Programs.

Among the many subjects discussed were the importance of community foundations, donation decision-making, leveraging trust as a nonprofit, charity vs. philanthropy, and how AI will change the future of generosity in our world.

Posted 07/17/23

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