Auburn

Finding Purpose in Patient Care

ebailey — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 18:44:19 +0000

Finding Purpose in Patient Care ebailey Wed, 11/26/2025 - 13:44

Finding Purpose in Patient Care

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Driven by a lifelong calling to serve, Caleb Van Horn, a first-year medical student at the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM)-Auburn Campus, has shaped his journey to medicine through perseverance, purpose, and hands-on experience. Although he has lived in several places, he now proudly calls Opelika home. “I consider Opelika my home because it has felt the most like home of anywhere I have lived,” he shared. His path toward becoming a physician is rooted in his work as an emergency medical technician (EMT), his ground search and rescue training, and the examples of dedication he witnessed throughout his life.

For Caleb, choosing medicine was not a single defining moment but a constant presence. “Medicine has been omnipresent throughout my entire adult life,” he said. “It felt right and natural, fascinating and complicated, with a depth of both knowledge and personal connection no other field can offer.” One of the greatest forces shaping this journey is his mother. Her decision to return to nursing school at age 40 left a lasting impression on him. “If I become even half the medical provider she is, I will have succeeded,” Caleb said. “She continues to be the most caring, skilled, and driven individual I have ever met.”

Caleb also credits Dr. Jonathan Mahram, a graduate of VCOM-Carolinas, with introducing him to osteopathic medicine. Observing Dr. Mahram’s approachability, expertise, and patient-centered care solidified Caleb’s desire to follow a similar path. In fact, Dr. Mahram was the first person Caleb called when he was accepted to VCOM.

Beginning medical school brought its share of nerves, but while the workload was challenging, effective time management allowed Caleb to succeed academically without giving up the activities he enjoys. Workshops and hands-on training through the Student Association of Military Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons and the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons Medical Student Section helped him maintain perspective and reconnect with the joy he finds in patient care.

Caleb values the strong sense of community within his class and the mentorship he has received from faculty members. He particularly appreciates Mike Brisson, MD, who has been instrumental in shaping his development as a Health Professions Scholarship Program student, offering both honest guidance and steady support as Caleb prepares for a career in military medicine. Caleb is drawn to trauma surgery or emergency medicine, fields that match his desire to serve others during times of critical need. “Every person on this planet has a right to life,” he said. “I will strive to intervene in times of misfortune and give people a second chance.”

Caleb remains deeply committed to his development as he continues his medical training. He draws motivation from his mother’s example, the mentors who have guided him, and the communities he has served. Together, these experiences have shaped a clear sense of purpose that carries him forward. As he looks ahead, Caleb is preparing for a career defined by compassion, confidence, and a strong commitment to delivering exceptional patient care.

Auburn

By Brittany Lilla -

Auburn Research Recognition Day 2026

ebailey — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 16:41:09 +0000

Auburn Research Recognition Day 2026 ebailey Wed, 11/26/2025 - 11:41

Auburn Research Recognition Day 2026

Tags: Research

Location: VCOM-Auburn, 910 South Donahue Drive, Auburn, AL 36832

VRRD is a significant event for VCOM that supports the mission of the College to provide medical education and promote research that prepares globally minded, community-focused physicians to improve human health.

Who should attend?

Student doctors, student pharmacists, student nurses, and other health professions students; physicians, physician assistants, biomedical researchers, pharmacists, nurse practitioners, public health professionals, medical residents, and others interested in current medical research.

Agenda

Registration begins at 8:00 AM, and the keynote speaker will begin at 9:00 AM CST. Lunch will be provided for attendees. The event will conclude by 3:00pm.

Keynote Speaker

Gary Piazza, PhD

Endowed Professor, W.W. Walker Professor
Department of Drug Discovery and Development
Director of Cancer Research Center at Harrison College of Pharmacy
Auburn University

Student Presentations

A limited number of students will be chosen by the Via Research Recognition Day Committee to deliver oral poster presentations highlighting exceptional research. These presentations will be featured as part of the afternoon agenda.

How do I participate?

Attendees are invited to share their research in poster format. Poster abstracts must be accepted for posters to be displayed at the event. The Via Research Recognition Day features an optional student poster competition in the following categories: Biomedical Research, Clinical Research, Clinical Case Reports, Educational Research, and Simulation Research.

Guidelines for Writing Poster Abstracts (DOC)

Abstract Submission Form

Abstracts must be submitted electronically using the Abstract Submission Form linked above by Friday, December 5th, 2025, at 5 PM CST.

Please note: In the interest of professionalism and fairness, no extensions for abstract submission will be granted.

For questions about abstract submissions or participation in the poster competition, please email researchday-auburn@vcom.edu.

When an abstract is accepted, the submitting author will receive further instructions for poster submission via email by Friday, December 12th, 2025. Posters will be due by January 16th, 2026, at 5 PM CST.

VCOM provides free poster printing for any meeting attendee with an accepted abstract. Details will be sent to submitting authors with the abstract acceptance email.

All projects presented for Research Day must be approved by an appropriate Institutional Review Board (IRB), reviewed and determined to be exempt, or determined not to meet the regulatory definition of human subjects research.

Disclosure Statement

It is the policy of the VCOM Medical Education Department to ensure balance, independence, objectivity, and scientific rigor in all its educational programs. All participating faculty are expected to disclose to the participants any real or apparent conflicts of interest related to the content of their presentations.

Campus: Auburn

When: February 6, 2026 8:00am to 3:00pm CST

Morgan Brown

ebailey — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 15:42:20 +0000

Morgan Brown ebailey Fri, 11/14/2025 - 10:42

Morgan Brown

Aministrative Assistant for Clinical Affairs

Office: 327B

Department/Discipline: Clinical Affairs

Campus: Auburn

Email: mbrown02@auburn.vcom.edu

Application Services Specialist and ��TV Recruiter

lwillis@auburn.vcom.edu — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 22:24:43 +0000

Application Services Specialist and ��TV Recruiter lwillis@auburn… Wed, 11/12/2025 - 17:24

Job Summary:
The Application Services Specialist is responsible for working with the Director for Application Services in the initial application processing for VCOM–Auburn Campuses including reviewing and selecting candidates for secondary applications based on established criterion, coding students, recalculating GPAs, downloading information, and creating reports.
The Application Services Specialist will also work for the Associate Dean for Student Affairs (and secondarily for the Director of ��TV) to participate in applicant telephone follow-up and interview scheduling and activities. The Application Services Specialist will also be responsible to travel and conduct recruitment events for the VCOM-Auburn campus in state and in bordering states as requested by the Associate Dean and the Director of ��TV.
As the Application Specialist will work with the Student Services team to support student groups, student events on campus, and have periodic contact with prospective and current students and participating in the conduct of student events; the position is considered full time with the majority of duties to be provided on campus or in recruitment travel.

Salary Range: $45,000 - $55,000

Required Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor’s degree desired, some office work experience required

Licensure or certification: N/A

Experience:

Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Excellent organizational skills
The ability to interact with and communicate with a variety of people at different levels
The ability to maintain a positive and fresh approach and attitude
The ability to be flexible and to be able to problem solve quickly and accurately
Strong computer skills and ability to learn new software

Skills required for this position include:

Good driving record
Excellent telephone and general communications skills
Must have a valid driver’s license and access to an automobile
Strong team player
Commitment to VCOM’s values
Ability to manage confidential information
Computer proficiency
Must be eligible to be certified as a Notary Public

Preferences are given to applicants who have the following skills or attributes:

Office experience working with transcripts, grades or in a general higher education environment
Experience working with students or the public
Strong presentation skills

Successful candidate will be subject to a criminal history background check.

Regular, reliable or predictable attendance is an essential function of the job.

Campus: Auburn

Status: Classified Staff Positions

View complete job description (PDF)

Elizabeth Cline

ebailey — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 20:08:21 +0000

Elizabeth Cline ebailey Mon, 11/10/2025 - 15:08

Elizabeth Cline, JD, PhD

Attorney; VCOM Board of Directors Vice Chairman and Member of the Executive and Finance Committee

Campuses: Virginia, Auburn, Carolinas, Louisiana

Heath Parker

ebailey — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 18:24:29 +0000

Heath Parker ebailey Mon, 11/10/2025 - 13:24

Heath Parker, DO, FACP

Dean for Auburn Campus

Ex Officio

Campus: Auburn

Program Faculty(MHSA)

lwillis@auburn.vcom.edu — Mon, 10 Nov 2025 16:23:19 +0000

Program Faculty(MHSA) lwillis@auburn… Mon, 11/10/2025 - 11:23

Job Summary:

Teach all assigned coursework to Anesthesiologist Assistant students and actively participate in curriculum development in collaboration with the Program Director; develop, teach, monitor, and evaluates courses in the basic science, clinical, and simulation/skills development aspects of the graduate program; act as a resource for professional and community connections for personal and professional development; act as an academic adviser for the students and mentor for the comprehensive examinations; remain current in professional area of interest and participate in professional societies and activities, participate in all assigned, required, as well as other related professional services and activities in the MHSA Program.

Salary Range: $45,000 - $55,000

Required Qualifications:

Education: Completion of an accredited program in an Anesthesiologist Assistant or Nurse Anesthesia, master’s degree or higher, with relevant experience in teaching.

Licensure: Professional certification as an Anesthesiologist Assistant through the National Commission for the Certification of Anesthesiologist Assistants (NCCAA) or National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists (NBCRNA); valid professional state license in good standing.

Experience:

Clinical experience in anesthesiology or a closely related field

Teaching experience at the graduate or undergraduate level
Organizational committee participation
A record of community experience
Ability to mentor students

Skills required for this position include:

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
Strong team player
Commitment to institutional mission and values
Basic computer proficiency

Preferences given to applicants who have the following skills or attributes:

Have an advanced degree in education or a related field
Familiarity with the Anesthesiologist Assistant profession

The successful candidate will be subject to a criminal history background check.

Regular, reliable, or predictable attendance is an essential job function.

Campus: Auburn

Status: Teaching Faculty Positions

View complete job description (PDF)

Healing Hands and Auburn Heart: Dr. Kristina Alexander’s Journey from Medical School to Orthopedic Surgery

ebailey — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 15:07:04 +0000

Healing Hands and Auburn Heart: Dr. Kristina Alexander’s Journey from Medical School to Orthopedic Surgery ebailey Wed, 10/22/2025 - 11:07

Healing Hands and Auburn Heart: Dr. Kristina Alexander’s Journey from Medical School to Orthopedic Surgery

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Driven by a passion for healing and a determination to excel, Kristina Alexander ‘25, DO, has turned her ambition into action. From the early challenges of medical school to her current role as a first-year orthopedic surgery resident at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, her journey reflects dedication, skill, and the enduring influence of a supportive community.

As a first-year orthopedic surgery resident, she is building the foundation for her career. In this first year of residency, Dr. Alexander gains hands-on experience under supervision, rotating through patient care, assisting in surgeries, and managing daily clinical responsibilities. “Each day brings unique challenges and opportunities to learn,” she explains. “The hands-on experience is invaluable and continues to shape my development as a surgeon.”

Her path to residency began with a thoughtful decision to pursue medical education that would challenge her academically and support her long-term goals. “I loved the emphasis on research and the opportunities for extracurricular engagement,” she recalls. “I knew I wanted a competitive specialty, and I wanted a school that would allow me to pursue those ambitions. The environment was supportive, the faculty were engaged, and the community was welcoming.” This combination of academic rigor and a close-knit community provided an ideal setting for growth both professionally and personally.

Reflecting on her time in medical school, Dr. Alexander remembers moments that combined hard work with camaraderie. “Although it is hard to pick just one, my favorite experience was Saturday mornings in the anatomy lab, working alongside classmates while listening to music from the tailgate lot across the street,” she says. “Another highlight was reconnecting with my classmates at graduation and seeing how far we had all come.” These experiences capture the balance of dedication, collaboration, and joy that defined her journey through medical school.

Equally important were the relationships she formed. “Lean on your friends and classmates,” she advises current students. “Med school is challenging, but the people around you often become lifelong friends. Lean on your professors as well. They care deeply about your success, and the relationships you build can last beyond the classroom.” These connections often evolve into professional networks that provide mentorship, guidance, and collaboration throughout a physician’s career.

The sense of community Dr. Alexander experienced continues to shape her today. Whether collaborating on research projects, celebrating milestones, or supporting colleagues during challenges, the bonds forged in medical school provide a foundation for both personal and professional growth.

Her journey also demonstrates the impact of dedication and resilience. Early mornings in the anatomy lab, long study sessions, and navigating the rigorous demands of medical school were just the beginning. Now, in the operating room at UPMC, she applies the knowledge, skills, and professionalism honed during those years.

From her first days on campus to her residency, Dr. Alexander’s journey reflects perseverance, community, and a commitment to making a difference. Her story shows how dedication, resilience, and guidance from mentors and peers can turn ambition into achievement and a passion for medicine into a meaningful career.

Auburn

By Brittany Lilla -

Alicia Crawford

ebailey — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 14:53:20 +0000

Alicia Crawford ebailey Wed, 10/15/2025 - 10:53

Alicia Crawford

Pharmacology Faculty

Office: 248

Department/Discipline: Pharmacology

Campus: Auburn

Phone: 334-442-4041

Email: acrawford01@auburn.vcom.edu

Fax: 334-442-4096

Reimagining Chronic Pain Care: A Compassionate Approach to Healing

ebailey — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 17:48:12 +0000

Reimagining Chronic Pain Care: A Compassionate Approach to Healing ebailey Mon, 09/29/2025 - 13:48

Reimagining Chronic Pain Care: A Compassionate Approach to Healing

1759147200

Chronic pain affects one in three people worldwide, disrupting work, sleep, relationships and mental well-being. For many individuals, traditional treatments fail to fully address such pain. To respond to this need, a group of researchers and clinicians at Auburn campus of the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM), known as the Pain Free Research Collaborative, are leading an innovative effort to rethink how chronic pain is understood and treated. The collaborative is led by William G. Pearson, Jr., PhD, discipline chair, and associate professor of anatomical sciences at VCOM-Auburn. Their approach draws upon osteopathic principles and emerging neuroscience.

Beyond Pills and Protocols

Historically, chronic pain treatment has relied heavily on medications, including opioids, with varying levels of success and significant associated risks. While medications can provide short-term relief, they are not designed to address the complex interaction between mind, body, and lived experience that shapes how individuals cope with pain. Osteopathic philosophy emphasizes the body’s capacity for self-healing and the importance of treating the whole person. This framework may provide new ways of thinking about patient care in the context of chronic pain.

Researchers at VCOM are exploring a treatment path that integrates neuroscience, trauma-informed care, and lifestyle medicine. This approach, termed Compassionate Integration, brings together multiple specialties to address not only symptoms but also the root causes of pain. Instead of applying one-size-fits-all treatments, patients receive individualized support from a team that may include osteopathic physicians, psychologists, lifestyle coaches and neurologically informed practitioners.

A Pilot Study in Compassionate Integration

The Pain Free Research Collaborative is currently conducting a pilot longitudinal observational study. This preliminary research is an important first step toward larger clinical trials. The study follows patients over time to evaluate how the Compassionate Integration model influences pain, functional ability and overall well-being.

Participants are introduced to a range of non-pharmacological interventions. Some individuals receive osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) and dry needling, which are hands-on therapies that address physical tension and structural imbalances. Others participate in autonomic recalibration, a neuroscience-based technique designed to calm the nervous system and reduce sympathetic overdrive. Counseling and pain education are also provided to help participants reframe maladaptive thoughts, process trauma and build resilience. Nutrition guidance and personalized lifestyle coaching further support long-term healing.

Each participant determines which interventions to engage in, and many choose multiple options. This flexibility mirrors real-world healing, where various approaches often interact to produce lasting outcomes.

The research team is particularly interested in how factors such as early-life trauma or pain-related beliefs affect an individual’s response to treatment. By examining these variables alongside clinical outcomes, the investigators aim to better understand why certain interventions are more effective for some patients than for others.

Looking Inside the Brain

A subset of participants in the pilot will undergo functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to investigate how chronic pain, and its treatment affects neural networks shaped by trauma and autonomic drivers of pain. Researchers are evaluating whether interventions such as autonomic recalibration can restore healthier patterns of brain connectivity and whether these neural changes correspond with meaningful reductions in pain. This work is conducted in collaboration with MRI specialists at Auburn University, under the guidance of Dr. Pearson.

Building Toward the Future

At the center of this research is a student–participant partnership model. Each participant is paired with a dedicated VCOM-Auburn student who accompanies them throughout their care journey. Students provide a consistent point of contact, facilitate communication across disciplines, coordinate clinical visits and support participants in reflecting on their progress. For the students, this experience is formative in developing the habits and skills required to become compassionate physicians.

The pilot study is also laying the foundation for a larger, externally funded clinical trial utilizing an advanced research design known as a Sequential Multiple Assignment Randomized Trial (SMART). Even at this early stage, the research is focused not merely on data collection but on producing meaningful improvements in participants’ lives.

Research

Auburn

By Brittany Lilla -