2026 Press Releases

Shreveport -- Medical students at LSU Health Shreveport now have an opportunity to leave with more than just a medical degree thanks to a new partnership with LSU Shreveport.

LSUHS medical students can pursue one of three LSUS master’s degrees while in medical school:

· Master of Business Administration (MBA)

· Master of Health Administration (MHA)

· Master of Public Health (MPH)

Leaders at the two institutions celebrated the Memorandum of Understanding with a signing ceremony in the Business Engagement Center on the LSUS campus.

“We’ve been working on the integration of our two programs for about a year, and we think this is great for our two schools as well as for the state in general to allow medical students the opportunity to do graduate work in public health, business and health administration,” said Dr. Lester Johnson, MD, FACS, LSU Health Shreveport Senior Vice Chancellor. “Our medical students will be able to utilize the knowledge from these graduate degrees throughout their career and will add width, breadth and depth to those careers.

“This is something that’s happening nationwide, and now it’s available in our state.”

Medical students who are completing their second pre-clinical year at LSU Health Shreveport can enroll in either LSUS’s MBA, MHA or MPH programs, completing those degrees in approximately one year before starting the clinical phase of medical school.

The MBA and MHA programs are online while the MPH is face-to-face in the evenings. Nine MPH credit hours would be completed during the clinical phase from LSUHS electives which are already part of the MD program.

“LSUS nor LSU Health Shreveport alone would have never been able to pull off something like this, but pooling our resources, we are able to provide something that meets the needs of the broader Louisiana community,” said Dr. Robert Smith (Ph.D.), LSUS Chancellor. “Medical students now have access to our outstanding graduate programs and to opportunities they didn’t have previously.

“We are continuing to look for opportunities to grow in high need areas where there’s no present access.”

Future doctors are furthering their understanding of an increasingly complex healthcare system, preparing themselves to operate their own practices or obtain administrative positions, and understanding how to protect and improve the health of entire groups.

Medical students are increasingly desiring dual degrees with an estimated nine percent pursuing a second degree, according to a 2025 study by the American Association of Medical Colleges.

That doesn’t include doctors and other medical professionals who return to school for graduate degrees once they are a practicing clinician, including LSUS’s own three graduate programs mentioned above.

LSUS and LSU Health have partnered on numerous occasions throughout recent years, which includes joint operation of the Master of Public Health program and various degree pathways that leverage the strengths of both institutions.

Both leaders said more agreements are in the works.

Shreveport, La. – LSU Health Shreveport has named Jianxun "Jim" Song, PhD, as Chair of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Dr. Song will also serve as Associate Director for Basic Research at the Feist-Weiller Cancer Center. With the appointment of Dr. Song, LSU Health Shreveport now has permanent chairs leading every academic department, a significant milestone that reflects the institution's commitment to excellence.

Dr. Song joins LSU Health Shreveport from the Texas A&M University School of Medicine, where he most recently served as the R.L. Bricker Endowed Professor of Cancer Immunology in the Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology. He brings more than two decades of experience in immunology, cancer biology, translational research and academic leadership, with previous faculty appointments at Texas A&M University and Penn State College of Medicine.

An internationally recognized researcher, Dr. Song's work focuses on cancer immunology, immunometabolism, stem cell-based immunotherapies and the development of novel immune directed treatments. Throughout his career, he has led or contributed to numerous federally funded research projects supported by the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation, the Department of Defense and other organizations.

His current research portfolio includes innovative approaches to melanoma immunotherapy, engineered microbial therapeutics and strategies designed to enhance antitumor immune responses. Dr. Song has authored more than 100 peer-reviewed publications and holds four patents. In addition to his research accomplishments, Dr. Song has served on numerous national and international grant review panels, including study sections for the National Institutes of Health and the Department of Defense.

He also holds editorial leadership roles with several scientific journals and is an active member of leading professional organizations, including the American Association of Immunologists, the American Association for Cancer Research, the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer and the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

The institution also recognized Kelly Tatchell, PhD, for his dedicated service as Chair of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Tatchell's leadership helped guide the department's continued growth and success and contributed significantly to LSU Health Shreveport's education and research missions.

With his combined expertise in cancer immunology, translational science and research leadership, Dr. Song is expected to play a key role in advancing biomedical research initiatives across LSU Health Shreveport and the Feist-Weiller Cancer Center.

Shreveport, LA - LSU Health Shreveport celebrated the achievements of 49 graduates Saturday during its Summer Commencement ceremony, with students from the School of Health Professions and Sciences and the School of Graduate Studies earning degrees.

Degrees awarded included five Bachelor of Science degrees in Medical Laboratory Science, two Bachelor of Science degrees in Cardiopulmonary Science, three Master of Communication Disorders degrees, 37 Master of Physician Assistant Studies degrees and two Doctor of Philosophy degrees.

LSU Board of Supervisors member Raymond “Randy” Morris conferred the degrees.

Before the ceremony, graduates and faculty participated in one of LSU Health Shreveport's most recognizable commencement traditions. Accompanied by a brass band, graduates second lined across campus in full academic regalia. The Louisiana-style processional featured umbrellas and school-themed handkerchiefs, with members of Shreveport's Krewe of Harambee helping lead the celebration.

Commencement speaker Adegbenro Fakoya, MD, MSc, MBA, PhD, FIMC, Professor and Vice Chair of Cellular Biology and Anatomy, challenged graduates to carry both scientific excellence and compassion into their careers.

“Every heart has chambers, every hand contains the same intricate architecture, every brain contains memories, fears and hopes, yet no two lives are identical,” Fakoya said. “Healthcare asks you to understand what is universal, but a great healer honors what is individual.”

Among the graduates was Alex Finney, PhD, who earned a Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science after previously receiving her doctorate in Cell Biology and Anatomy from LSU Health Shreveport.

After years spent conducting laboratory research, Finney returned to the classroom to pursue an additional certification that would allow her to work more directly with patients through clinical laboratory encounters.

Finney praised the Medical Laboratory Science faculty for preparing students for life beyond graduation.

“The instructors here are truly special,” she said. “They care about our success and ensure that we're prepared for the clinic and for our board certifications.”

Ella Otken earned a Master of Physician Assistant Studies after a path to healthcare that began with volunteer work following the devastating 2016 floods in her hometown of Denham Springs, Louisiana. Witnessing volunteers come together to help her family and community inspired her interest in service and eventually led her toward medicine. She chose LSU Health Shreveport's Physician Assistant Program after hearing about its reputation from her sister, who earned a medical degree at the institution.

“Shreveport was honestly the place where I felt at home,” Otken said. “From day one, the faculty wanted us involved in patient encounters and clinical work. They've really pushed us and challenged us every step along the way.”

Fellow Physician Assistant Studies graduate Cynthia Garza Martinez hopes to use her education not only to care for patients, but also to help communities better understand their health.

“I really want to educate my patients one day so they can live their best life and take care of themselves and their family members,” said Garza Martinez.

The School of Graduate Studies also celebrated groundbreaking student achievements, including those of Nilu Dhungel, PhD, who earned a doctorate in Molecular and Cellular Physiology.

After nearly eight years at LSU Health Shreveport as a student researcher and graduate student, Dr. Dhungel said the institution provided an environment that felt like family.

“It is a very close-knit community,” she said. “I felt very supported by my advisors, my friends and my colleagues. I am forever grateful for my time at LSU Health Shreveport.”

The 49 graduates leaving LSU Health Shreveport on Saturday will now enter careers spanning clinical medicine, laboratory science, communication disorders and biomedical research. While their educational paths differ, they leave with a common mission: improving lives through healthcare, science and service.

Shreveport, La. – LSU Health Shreveport officially welcomed its School of Medicine Class of 2030 during the annual White Coat Ceremony held Friday at the historic Strand Theatre in downtown Shreveport. The ceremony marked a significant milestone for 150 incoming medical students as they received their first white coats, symbolizing their commitment to the medical profession and the journey ahead toward becoming physicians.

A special tradition added a personal touch to the celebration. While many students were coated by LSU Health Shreveport leaders Lester Johnson, MD, FACS, Senior Vice Chancellor, and R. Keith White, MD, FACS, Chair of the Department of Surgery, some students were presented with their white coats by immediate family members who are practicing physicians. The moment created a meaningful connection between generations of medical professionals.

Students also discovered notes of encouragement tucked inside their white coats from LSU Health Shreveport alumni, offering support and inspiration as they begin medical school.

For first-generation medical student Sarah Murphy of Shreveport, the ceremony represented years of dedication and perseverance.

"Today has meant everything to me," Murphy said. "It signifies the beginning of my journey. I've worked my entire life to get here, and I'm proud to share this moment with my friends and family. LSU Health Shreveport has prepared us well, and I feel ready for the next four years."

Asjad Mansoor of Alexandria described the event as a life-changing moment for both himself and his family.

"This coat means the world," Mansoor said. "It's a huge responsibility, but having the opportunity to make a difference in someone's life is something special. That's why most of us want to become physicians, and I'm excited to get started."

Following the ceremony, students and their families gathered on campus for Family Day, providing loved ones with an inside look at the medical education experience awaiting the newest members of the LSU Health Shreveport community.

Shreveport, La. – LSU Health Shreveport has reached a significant milestone in its research enterprise as Nilesh Pandey, PhD, became the first postdoctoral fellow in the institution’s history to receive a National Institutes of Health (NIH) Pathway to Independence Award (K99/R00).

The highly competitive award, administered by the NIH National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, recognizes exceptional postdoctoral researchers with the potential to become independent scientific leaders. Dr. Pandey received a two-year, $217,296 K99 award to support his research project, “Novel Mechanisms for Lung Cancer Associated Thrombosis.”

While LSU Health Shreveport has recruited numerous faculty members who previously secured K99 or R00 funding, Dr. Pandey is the first trainee to earn the award while completing postdoctoral training at LSU Health Shreveport, a distinction that reflects not only his scientific achievements but also the institution’s growing culture of mentorship and research excellence.

What is a K99 Award?

The NIH Pathway to Independence Award, commonly known as the K99/R00 Award, is one of the nation's premier career development programs for early-career scientists. It is designed to help outstanding postdoctoral researchers transition into independent faculty careers.

A postdoctoral fellow, often called a postdoc, is a scientist who has completed a doctoral degree and is undergoing advanced research training under the guidance of experienced faculty mentors before launching an independent research career.

Dr. Pandey’s research focuses on a serious and often deadly complication of cancer known as cancer-associated thrombosis, the formation of dangerous blood clots in patients with cancer.

“Generally, lung cancer patients are at a much higher risk of developing dangerous blood clots, which increases both morbidity and mortality,” said Dr. Pandey. “My research focuses on how lung cancer changes immune cells, particularly neutrophils, and how those changes promote life-threatening blood clots.”

His work seeks to uncover the biological mechanisms linking lung cancer and thrombosis and identify new therapeutic targets that could prevent clotting complications without increasing the risk of dangerous bleeding.

Dr. Pandey joined LSU Health Shreveport as a postdoctoral fellow in November 2022 after earning his doctoral degree in India and pursuing additional academic work before coming to the United States.

The recognition carries special personal significance.

“When I heard the news, I was in disbelief,” he said. “It was an emotional moment personally because I lost my father a few months back. I just want to dedicate this award to him, my wife, my mother and my family.”

Throughout the process, Dr. Pandey emphasized the role of mentorship and institutional support in his success, specifically recognizing his primary mentor, Nirav Dhanesha, PhD, Assistant Professor of Pathology and Translational Pathobiology; co-mentor Wayne Orr, PhD, Vice Chair and Professor of Pathology and Translational Pathobiology; and Oren Rom, PhD, RD, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Research.

“This award does not belong only to me,” he said. “It belongs to the collective effort of all the people around me.”

The external funding from Dr. Pandey’s K99 award contributes to the multi-million-dollar research enterprise at LSU Health Shreveport and supports a broader goal for the LSU Flagship, which includes LSU Health Shreveport, LSU Baton Rouge, LSU Health New Orleans, Pennington Biomedical Research Center and the LSU AgCenter, to elevate LSU into the ranks of the nation’s Top 50 research institutions.

Shreveport, La. – More than 100 students spent their Saturday at LSU Health Shreveport learning what it takes to turn dreams of becoming healthcare professionals into reality.

Hosted by the LSUHS Office for Student and Community Engagement, "Family Affair" brought together middle school students, high school students, college students, parents, educators and healthcare leaders for a day focused on one goal: helping students prepare early for successful careers in medicine and other health professions.

"Readiness starts as early as middle school," said Dr. Toni Thibeaux, LSUHS Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student and Community Engagement. "We wanted to provide a space where families could learn together about the academic preparation, support systems, and opportunities available to help students succeed on their educational journey."

Throughout the day, students heard from leaders with the College Board and the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), while also learning about admissions testing, healthcare careers, academic success strategies and professional development opportunities.

Among those students was Skylar Cardwell, a south Louisiana native, studying in Atlanta who hopes to pursue a medical career.

"I want to be a doctor so that I can use my intelligence to help others," Cardwell said. "Making sure children's health is the best that it can be helps improve our generations for years to come."

Dr. Thibeaux said the event was designed to ensure students and parents left informed, encouraged and connected to resources that can help them navigate the path to healthcare careers.

"I want them to leave knowing that LSU Health Shreveport is here to support them," Thibeaux said. "Hopefully, families will take this information home and continue these conversations together."

Up to six LSU Health Shreveport Physician Assistant students will receive scholarships covering tuition and mandatory fees while helping address critical healthcare workforce shortages in rural Louisiana, thanks to a newly awarded Healthcare Employment Reinvestment Opportunity (H.E.R.O.) grant from the Louisiana Department of Health.

The grant will support an innovative partnership between LSU Health Shreveport and six rural Louisiana hospitals designed to increase the number of Physician Assistants practicing in underserved areas while expanding clinical training opportunities for PA students.

Through the program, up to six LSU Health Shreveport Physician Assistant students will receive scholarships covering tuition and mandatory fees in exchange for a commitment to practice for two to three years at participating rural hospitals following graduation. The initiative will also establish new rural clinical preceptor sites, helping alleviate a growing shortage of primary care training placements for students across many healthcare disciplines.

The H.E.R.O. Fund provides two-year grants to health care education and training programs that increase student enrollment, expand training capacity, and prepare more Louisianans for careers in high-demand health professions. Since transferring to LDH in 2024, the H.E.R.O. Fund has supported dozens of partnerships between educational institutions and health care providers across Louisiana to address workforce shortages and improve access to care.

“Louisiana needs a strong health care workforce to support our communities and a growing economy,” said Governor Jeff Landry. “These investments create opportunities for Louisianans to pursue rewarding careers while addressing critical workforce needs across our state. By expanding our health care workforce, we are strengthening our economy, supporting our communities, and building a healthier Louisiana.”

Together, the grant awarded to LSU Health Shreveport and hospital partnerships involved represent a total investment of more than $343,000 in workforce development, including $171,921 in H.E.R.O. scholarship funding and nearly $171,800 in matching in-kind support from participating hospitals through clinical instruction, mentorship and student housing.

“This project addresses several challenges at once,” said Sharon Dunn, PT, PhD, Vice Chancellor for Academic Administration and Dean of the School of Health Professions & Sciences. “It creates new scholarship opportunities that reduce financial barriers for students, expands the number of primary care clinical training sites available to our PA Program and helps place highly trained providers in rural communities that need them most. Most importantly, it creates a sustainable model where graduates can eventually become preceptors themselves, helping train the next generation of Physician Assistants.”

The initiative was developed in response to increasing demand for clinical training placements as health professions programs continue to grow throughout Louisiana. Over the past several years, securing sufficient primary care preceptor sites has become increasingly challenging for healthcare education programs nationwide.

“This opportunity is truly life-changing for students,” said Mandy Porter, MPAS, PA-C, Program Director and Clinical Assistant Professor of the Physician Assistant Program. “These scholarships provide greater financial freedom while allowing graduates to serve the communities they care about most. For students who come from rural Louisiana and want to return home to practice, this program creates an incredible pathway to do exactly that.”

The LSU Health Shreveport Physician Assistant Program, within the School of Health Professions and Sciences, was Louisiana’s first accredited PA program. The 27-month Master of Physician Assistant Studies program prepares graduates to provide comprehensive primary care services under physician supervision and has consistently achieved first-time board examination pass rates between 95 and 100 percent over the past five years.

The award marks the second consecutive successful H.E.R.O. grant awarded to the LSU Health Shreveport School of Health Professions & Sciences. In 2025, SHPS received H.E.R.O. funding to establish Louisiana’s first hybrid Doctor of Physical Therapy program in Lafayette, expanding access to physical therapy education in Southwest Louisiana while addressing workforce needs across the state.

Shreveport, La. – LSU Health Shreveport has been awarded a Phase 2 renewal of more than $11 million from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for its Center of Biomedical Research Excellence (COBRE) Center for Applied Immunology and Pathological Processes (CAIPP). This highly competitive award builds on the center’s initial five-year funding period awarded in 2021, and marks a major milestone in advancing LSUHS’s research in immunology. Immunology is a critical area important to the development of new treatment options for the elimination of drug-resistant viruses and bacteria, as well as for the development of new therapies for treatments of various cancers and cardiovascular diseases.

The Phase 2 renewal reflects the success of CAIPP during its first funding cycle. During the initial cycle, the center provided access to critical core research infrastructure and successfully mentored junior research faculty into independently funded scientists. Under the leadership of Dr. Andrew D. Yurochko, Professor and Carroll Feist Endowed Chair of Viral Oncology, Vice Chair of Microbiology and Immunology and CAIPP Director, the program has significantly expanded LSUHS’s research capacity in immunology.

“This program has allowed us to take early-career scientists and develop them into independently funded investigators,” said Dr. Yurochko. “Every one of our Phase 1 research project leaders has gone on to secure their own NIH funding, which is exactly what the COBRE program is designed to achieve. It builds a sustainable pipeline for scientific talent.”

COBRE programs are designed to strengthen biomedical research infrastructure and enhance competitiveness for national funding, particularly in states like Louisiana, where health challenges such as infectious disease, cancer and chronic inflammatory conditions remain prevalent. CAIPP focuses on understanding how the immune system functions and malfunctions in these conditions, with the long-term goal of improving prevention and
treatment strategies.

“Immunology is at the heart of so many major diseases, from infections to cancer to cardiovascular conditions,” Dr. Yurochko said. “Our work is focused on understanding how those immune responses change and using that knowledge to build the foundation for new therapies.”

The renewal will provide continued support for faculty recruitment and development, advanced research cores and collaborative, interdisciplinary science across LSUHS and beyond.

“This COBRE renewal provides another example of the quality of research and researchers at LSU Health Shreveport,” stated Lester Johnson, MD, LSU Health Shreveport Senior Vice Chancellor. “I am confident the Center for Applied Immunology and Pathological Processes is well positioned to provide translational research in the form of new therapies, which is critical to those we serve. Translational research plays an important role in determining LSU Health Shreveport’s national stature and reputation.”

According to the National Institutes of Health, Institutional Development Awards like the COBRE program yield incredible returns on investment. NIH estimates that every dollar spent results in an additional $3.7 dollars at the institute or school where the funds are awarded. It is estimated that during the CAIPP’s Phase 1 funding cycle, the initial $10.5 million award brought in nearly $40 million through additional funding through workforce development, research infrastructure and new hires.

CAIPP is one of two COBRE centers at LSU Health Shreveport, working in synergy with the COBRE Center for Redox Biology and Cardiovascular Disease. Together, the centers collaborate on infrastructure, mentorship and scientific initiatives amplifying their impact.

Shreveport, La. – LSU Health Shreveport is pleased to announce the appointment of Jared Lundy Moss, MD, as Chair of the Department of Urology, effective July 1.

Dr. Moss, a Shreveport native, has served as a Clinical Assistant Professor of Urology at LSUHS and brings extensive clinical experience and a strong commitment to patient-centered care. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Animal Biology from Louisiana Tech University, and Doctor of Medicine from LSU Health Shreveport where he was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society. He completed his urology residency and general surgery internship at the University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine in Knoxville, followed by a fellowship in Male Reproductive Medicine and Surgery at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine.

A specialist in men’s health, Dr. Moss’s clinical focus includes male fertility, erectile dysfunction, hypogonadism and advanced microsurgical techniques such as vasectomy reversals and sperm retrieval procedures. He is recognized as the first male reproductive specialist serving the Ark-La-Tex. His clinical and academic interests include fertility preservation, particularly for cancer patients, as well as innovative therapies for male reproductive and sexual health conditions.

Dr. Moss has contributed to the field through peer-reviewed publications, national presentations, and participation in clinical trials. He is an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Urological Association, the American Society of Reproductive Medicine, and the Sexual Medicine Society of North America. His excellence in patient care has been recognized with multiple honors, including the Ochsner LSU Health Patient Experience Award and the Guardian Angel Award for Excellence in Patient Care.

Shreveport, La. – July 1 marks an exciting milestone in medicine across the United States as newly graduated physicians begin residency training. At LSU Health Shreveport, 180 new residents and fellows are taking the next step of their careers. Altogether, 614 residents and fellows train across 47 accredited programs, reinforcing LSU Health Shreveport’s role as the leading center for graduate medical education in North Louisiana.

Of these physicians:

• 598 will train in Shreveport at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport Academic Medical Center and St. Mary Medical Center
• 18 will train in Alexandria, Louisiana through the LSUHS Family Medicine Residency Program on campus at Rapides Regional Medical Center
• 24 will train in Monroe, Louisiana through the LSUHS Family Medicine Residency Program on campus at Ochsner LSU Health Monroe Medical Center

Residency and fellowship training at LSU Health Shreveport spans three to seven years, depending on specialty, preparing physicians to deliver high-quality patient care and advance the future of medicine.

“It is a great day that many of you have been working toward for years,” addressed James Morris, MD,FACG, Assistant Dean for Graduate Medical Education to the new cohort. “Today marks the beginning of your journey as physicians entrusted with patient care.”

Many of the residents and fellows have moved to the Shreveport/Bossier area to pursue medical training from around the nation, significantly impacting our local economy. In addition, some positions are filled by graduates of the LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine. Among those trainees are Drs. Amanda Ragland Greene and Driskel Greene who both begin their residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology as a married couple.

“The LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine has prepared us for this next step,” said Driskel Greene, MD. “It’s a lot different, coming into a patient’s room saying ‘hi, I’m a medical student,’ to ‘I’m a doctor, here to care for you today.”

“It’s a role we don’t take lightly,” continued Amanda Ragland Greene, MD. “We’re honored to care for patients. I’m very confident, knowing that we’re going to have a great residency experience.”

As these new physicians begin their training, LSU Health Shreveport continues its mission to educate the next generation of healthcare leaders while providing exceptional care to communities across Louisiana.

For more information about Graduate Medical Education at LSU Health Shreveport.

Shreveport, La. – U.S. Congresswoman Julia Letlow (Louisiana 5th District) recently visited LSU Health Shreveport, touring the institution’s newest facility, the Center for Medical Education Building (CMEB) and engaging with students during a public forum focused on healthcare, research and the future of medicine.

During the forum, she met with students from the institution’s three schools: the School of Medicine, School of Health Professions and Sciences and School of Graduate Studies. She addressed questions on issues impacting Louisiana, including the critical role of federal investment in medical research.

“I am a huge believer in research. That is how we’re going to change the world. That is how we’re going to cure cancer,” Letlow responded to a group of PhD candidates who actively work in cancer and cardiovascular research. “I have the awesome responsibility of serving on the appropriations committee, that actually holds the purse strings for how much funding NIH receives, and I go to bat every year. There are certain people who want to cut back, but it’s too important. It is absolutely vital.”

During her visit, Congresswoman Letlow explored the Center for Medical Education, a modern facility designed to advance team-based, active learning for medical students. The tour included the building’s large instructional classrooms, smaller active learning classrooms, the Bakowski Center for Culinary Medicine and hands-on skills and simulation labs that support clinical training.

Letlow’s visit marks a continued connection to LSU Health Shreveport. She's previously delivered a commencement address to graduates, sharing a deeply personal story about the care her family received at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport during the COVID-19 pandemic, when her late husband, Congressman-elect Luke Letlow, was hospitalized prior to his passing.

Her return to campus underscores both her advocacy for healthcare education and research, and the lasting impact of LSU Health Shreveport’s mission to provide compassionate, high-quality care while training future leaders in medicine and science.

Shreveport, La. – At its most recent commencement, LSU Health Shreveport recognized three standout faculty members with the university system’s most prestigious teaching honor in Medicine, the Allen A. Copping Excellence in Teaching Award.

This annual award, established in 1997, is named after the late Dr. Allen A. Copping, former Chancellor of LSU Medical Center and former President of the LSU System. These awards celebrate the educators who are uniquely gifted in imparting knowledge, possess a lifelong quest for discovery and who lead by example in fostering a sense of caring and compassion into the next generation of healthcare providers. These recipients represent the very best of LSU Health Shreveport’s three schools: Medicine, Graduate Studies and Health Professions and Sciences. All were nominated by students and are chosen by a committee of colleagues and students, based on their academic teaching and impact. The award is a hallmark of the LSU System, awarded annually at both LSU Health Shreveport and LSU Health New Orleans.

School of Medicine Recipient - Ammar Husan, MD, MBA, DABFM, FAAFP Assistant Professor of Family Medicine

Dr. Ammar Husan has earned a reputation among students as an exceptional physician, mentor and educator whose impact extends far beyond the clinical setting. One student noted he “should be the standard to which all teaching physicians are held,” citing his role as both a patient advocate and effective educator who provides thoughtful, constructive feedback.

Dr. Husan is widely recognized for his dedication to students, often making himself available beyond scheduled hours to provide mentorship, review residency applications, conduct mock interviews and offer encouragement during challenging moments. His approach to medical education emphasizes not only clinical competence but also compassion, confidence and integrity.

He earned undergraduate degrees in Biology and Biomedical Engineering with honors from Stony Brook University, followed by his medical degree from the Medical University of the Americas while simultaneously completing an MBA in Healthcare Management. Dr. Husan completed his residency at LSU Health Shreveport, where he now serves on faculty. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Family Medicine and a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians. His professional affiliations include the American Medical Association, Louisiana State Medical Society, and the Obesity Medicine Association. His research experience includes NIH- and Department of Defense-funded work in traumatic brain injury. In 2025, he was named the Louisiana Academy of Family Physicians Family Physician of the Year.

School of Health Professions and Sciences Recipient - Michon Revader, DHA, RRT, RRT NPS, RCS Clinical Assistant Professor of Cardiopulmonary Science

Dr. Michon Revader is known for her unwavering commitment to student success, innovative teaching strategies and leadership in clinical education. She consistently prioritizes learners, creating an environment that supports both academic achievement and professional growth. Her teaching philosophy centers on adaptability and engagement, ensuring students understand complex material by tailoring instruction and reinforcing key concepts. From the moment prospective students enter the program, Dr. Revader provides meaningful mentorship that continues throughout their academic journey.

Dr. Revader’s dedication extends far beyond the classroom. In one instance this past academic year, her decision to conduct a welfare check on a student who didn’t show up for class, was credited with saving that student’s life, an extraordinary reflection of her compassion and commitment.

Dr. Revader serves as Assistant Professor of Cardiopulmonary Science and Program Director of the Cardiovascular Technology Program. She holds a Doctor of Health Administration and Master of Health Administration from the University of Phoenix and a Bachelor of Science in Cardiopulmonary Science from LSU Health New Orleans.

A registered respiratory therapist with specialization in neonatal intensive care, she previously worked in acute care settings including neonatal and adult ICUs and a Level I trauma emergency department. Her professional affiliations include the American Association for Respiratory Care and the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation.

School of Graduate Studies Recipient - Ana-Maria Dragoi, MD, PhD Associate Professor of Molecular and Cellular Physiology

Dr. Ana-Maria Dragoi is recognized by colleagues and students alike as a dedicated, thoughtful and compassionate educator whose influence spans medical, graduate and professional education across LSU Health Shreveport.

As both a physician and scientist, she brings an interdisciplinary perspective to teaching and research. She serves as a course director and lecturer in both the medical and graduate curricula, where she is known for fostering engaging discussions and creating a positive, intellectually stimulating learning environment. Students consistently praise her ability to make complex scientific concepts clear, accessible and relevant.

Dr. Dragoi is a strong advocate for active learning and continuous quality improvement in education. Her teaching is characterized by clarity, organization, accessibility and a genuine investment in student success.

Beyond the classroom, Dr. Dragoi maintains an active, NIH-funded research program focused on cancer biology and host-pathogen interactions. Her work explores mechanisms of metastasis and chemoresistance, particularly epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), as well as the role of macrophages in bacterial infections such as Neisseria gonorrhoeae. She has a strong publication record and serves on multiple PhD advisory committees.

She earned her MD in Romania, her PhD from Brown University, and completed postdoctoral training at Yale University.

For more information about the Allen A. Copping Excellence in Teaching Award, visit: https://www.lsuhs.edu/our-schools/faculty/awards

LSU Health Shreveport celebrated the achievements of 240 graduates during its Spring Commencement held earlier today. To accommodate growing degree programs and to allow our graduates to share the milestone with more family and friends, the university hosted two ceremonies, back-to-back, at the Municipal Auditorium in downtown Shreveport. The School of Health Professions and Sciences and the School of Graduate Studies ceremony began at 9:00 a.m., followed by the School of Medicine ceremony at 1:00 p.m.

This year’s graduating class included several milestone achievements, highlighting LSU Health Shreveport’s continued expansion of academic programs aimed at meeting workforce needs. Among the graduates were the first cohort from the Bachelor of Science in Cardiovascular Technology program and the 100% online Bachelor of Science in Cardiopulmonary Science degree advancement program, both established in 2024, as well as the first doctoral graduate from the PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences program, established in 2020.

“It’s an honor to be the first graduate in this program,” said Rachel Banister, the inaugural graduate of the Cardiovascular Technology Program. “It’s taught me to utilize all of the technology associated with cardiac care. I’ve been able to receive so much individualized attention that’s been so helpful for my education.” 

LSU Chancellor and Executive Vice President Jim Dalton, PhD, served as commencement speaker for both ceremonies, addressing graduates and their families. Dr. Dalton provides leadership for LSU’s academic and research enterprise with a focus on student success, retention and academic excellence.

A nationally recognized scholar and accomplished researcher, Dr. Dalton earned his Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from the University of Cincinnati and completed his PhD and postdoctoral fellowship at Ohio State University. Over his career, he has held senior leadership positions at the University of Tennessee, Ohio State University, the University of Michigan and most recently as Executive Vice President and Provost at the University of Alabama. He holds more than 100 U.S. patents and over 500 international patents and was elected to the National Academy of Medicine in 2019.

During his remarks, Dr. Dalton highlighted LSU Health Shreveport’s mission to serve the state’s most pressing health needs, noting that the institution “exists, in part, because those challenges demand an answer. You are that answer,” encouraging graduates to carry that responsibility into the communities they will serve.

Degrees were conferred by members of the LSU Board of Supervisors, with Esperanza “Espe” Moran conferring degrees during the morning ceremony and Raymond R. “Randy” Morris officiating the School of Medicine ceremony.

“Commencement is a day of celebration for our students, their families and all those at LSU Health Shreveport who have contributed to reaching today’s milestone,” said Lester Johnson, MD, LSU Health Shreveport Senior Vice Chancellor. “We salute these graduates who have worked so hard to make their professional goals a reality. Their contributions will continue the proud legacy of our institution in improving the quality of life for those they serve and in creating the treatments and cures of the future.”

A total of 240 degrees were awarded across LSU Health Shreveport’s three professional schools:

147 – School of Medicine
70 – School of Health Professions and Sciences 

• 5 – Bachelor of Science in Cardiopulmonary Science
• 1 – Bachelor of Science in Cardiovascular Technology
• 3 – Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science
• 4 – Master of Communication Disorders
• 20 – Doctor of Occupational Therapy
• 36 – Doctor of Physical Therapy
• 1 – PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences

23 – School of Graduate Studies 

• 5 – Master of Biomedical Sciences
• 9 – Master of Medical Sciences
• 9 – Doctor of Philosophy

These 240 graduates now join a distinguished network of LSU Health Shreveport Alumni contributing to healthcare, research and education across Louisiana, our nation and beyond.
 

Ochsner LSU Health – Feist-Weiller Cancer Center (FWCC) and the LSU Health Sciences Foundation held a groundbreaking ceremony on Tuesday, May 5 for renovations to the McDade Hospitality House. The hospitality home will provide FWCC patients traveling for cancer care a comfortable space to rest during their treatment.
The McDade House originally opened in February of 1985 as the first hospitality house in Louisiana and the tenth in the United States. In 2024, FWCC and the LSU Health Sciences Foundation partnered on a campaign to raise funds to renovate and reopen the house, which has been closed since 2013. 

The McDade House renovation represents more than just an infrastructure upgrade; it is a vital tool in the fight against cancer in North Louisiana. According to Dr. Richard Mansour, director of Feist-Weiller Cancer Center, the facility ensures that patients can access treatments without the burden of expensive lodging, providing a supportive environment where healing takes priority.

"The renovation of the McDade House is a fundamental shift in how we support our patients during their most challenging moments,” said Dr. Mansour. “By removing the logistical and financial burdens of travel, we are ensuring that healing remains a patient's primary focus. This house provides a sanctuary for patients while they receive life-saving treatments."

The impact of the McDade House extends beyond out-of-town patients. By adding dedicated hospitality housing, FWCC can continue expanding advanced therapies—such as cellular therapies including CAR-T—helping ensure more patients across the Shreveport-Bossier area can receive cutting-edge care without leaving their community.

“The McDade House is a major milestone in our mission to provide comprehensive cancer care,” said Greg Sonnenfeld, assistant vice president of the cancer service line for Ochsner LSU Health. “For many, the barrier to receiving life-saving treatments isn't the technology –it’s the logistics of staying close to the clinical team. This facility removes that barrier, making the highest level of oncology services accessible to patients across the entire region.”

The original McDade House was opened thanks to the generosity of the McDade family, and the same is true for the new, renovated property. FWCC is appreciative of the continued support from current members of the McDade family. 

“Our family has always believed that this house is more than just a building – it is a refuge providing comfort, encouragement, and support to every family walking a difficult road,” said Gary Moore, Louisiana Regional Executive and Market President North Louisiana at Argent Financial and McDade descendent. “Seeing the McDade House evolve and reopen its doors is a proud moment for us. We are honored to continue the legacy of generosity that began generations ago and to support the vital work FWCC does every day.”

The two organizations release joint report detailing economic impact on the region and state for fiscal year 2025.

LSU Health Shreveport (LSUHS) and Ochsner LSU Health (OLHS) released a comprehensive economic impact report today, detailing a $3.7 billion boost to the state of Louisiana in fiscal year 2025. Conducted by independent consulting firm Tripp Umbach, the study highlights how the ongoing partnership serves as a powerful engine for local economic development while delivering expert healthcare.

The partnership generates $3.7 billion in state-wide economic impact with 97% ($3.6 B) of those dollars staying in the North Louisiana economy. Today, one in every 12 jobs in North Louisiana is directly provided or supported by the partnership. The long-term value of medical education provided through this collaboration also shines through, as more than 4,300 LSUHS working alumni contributed an additional $5.7 billion to the regional economy.

"We are not just educating current students, we are building the future of healthcare for North Louisiana," said Lester Johnson, MD, Senior Vice Chancellor of LSU Health Shreveport. "Through our strong collaboration, we advance cutting-edge clinical care, vital medical research and deliver innovative medical education. We proudly train the next generation of expert healthcare leaders right here at home."

"At Ochsner LSU Health, we measure our success by the health and vitality of the people we serve," said David Callecod, Chief Executive Officer of Ochsner LSU Health. "This partnership allows us to bring expert care directly into our communities. We are actively building a stronger North Louisiana, ensuring residents have the resources and support they need to thrive for generations to come."

Key insights from the economic impact report include:

• $3.7 billion total economic impact: The partnership contributes significantly to Louisiana's economy, including $3.6 billion in North Louisiana for fiscal year 2025.
• Exceptional return on investment: For every $1 of state funding, the partnership generates $29.13 in revenue for Louisiana.
• Job creation: OLHS and LSUHS together directly employ 6,662 individuals and support an additional 18,652 jobs in North Louisiana. One in every 12 jobs in the region is tied to the partnership.
• Infrastructure investment: OLHS has invested $450 million in facilities and infrastructure since 2018.
• Training the next generation: LSUHS trains more than 1,000 students, residents and fellows each year across more than fifty accredited programs. In 2025 alone, OLHS supported 2,689 clinical placements through 98 active partnership agreements, providing essential hands-on training experiences that strengthen the state’s healthcare workforce and expand access to care.
• Caring for the entire community: OLHS delivered $39.1 million in charity care last year to patients across its North Louisiana locations, keeping the community healthy by providing preventative care, cancer screenings and social support.
• LSUHS alumni impact: LSUHS’s 4,379 working alumni contributed $5.7 billion to the North Louisiana economy in 2025. More than 70% of physicians in the region received part of their training at LSUHS.

"We had a bold vision in 2018 when we formed our partnership with LSU Health Shreveport, and we are delivering on our promise. Our partnership demonstrates what is possible when we combine world-class medical education with an unwavering commitment to patient care," said Pete November, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ochsner Health. "By investing in our communities, we are not only expanding access to life-saving treatments but also driving significant economic growth that helps the entire state of Louisiana thrive."

Read the full ECONOMIC IMPACT REPORT.
View the two-page overviews on LSUHS and OLHS.

Christian Bonner, MD, a Winnsboro Native and resident physician in the LSU Health Shreveport Monroe Family Medicine Rural Residency Program (Winnsboro,) has been named a 2026 Emerging Leader Scholar by the American Academy of Family Physicians Foundation (AAFP.) Dr. Bonner is 1 of 30 selected nationwide for this highly competitive honor through the AAFP’s Family Medicine Leads Emerging Leader Institute. The FM Leads Emerging Leader Institute is a year-long leadership development program that prepares the next generation of leaders in family medicine through mentorship, national networking and hands-on leadership projects.

As a part of the program, Dr. Bonner will attend AAFP Future and the Family Medicine Leads Emerging Leader Institute this summer, where participants will engage in in-depth leadership training. Each scholar is paired with an AAFP family physician mentor and completes a leadership project aimed at advancing family medicine and improving community health.

“It is a great honor and privilege to be selected as an Emerging Leader Scholar. I am very excited to participate, learn and represent our great state at this national event.” - Christian Bonner, MD

Logan Atkins, MD, Site Director of the LSU Health Shreveport Family Medicine Rural Residency Program in Winnsboro, praised Dr. Bonner’s dedication and growth.

“During my time in the past year getting to know Dr. Bonner, he’s really grown as a physician and has been a boon to his patients at Ochsner LSU Health Monroe,” said Dr. Atkins. “Being from our area, he’s immensely dedicated to the well-being of the people of Franklin Parish, and we’re all ecstatic to welcome him home this summer.”

Dr. Bonner will provide care at Franklin Medical Center in Winnsboro, through the LSU Health Shreveport Rural Family Medicine Residency Program. This program is designed to train physicians committed to serving in rural, underserved communities. After serving a year at Ochsner LSU Health Monroe, residents transition their care full-time into Franklin Medical Center.

Dr. Bonner earned his medical degree from LSU Health Shreveport’s School of Medicine and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Louisiana at Monroe. While in college, he served as a volunteer firefighter and department captain. During medical school, he was elected technology chair and served on the Gold Humanism Honors Society Student of the Month Committee.

In addition to the AAFP Emerging Leader Scholar distinction, Dr. Bonner has also been selected as a resident delegate to the Louisiana Academy of Family Physicians for the upcoming academic year and received a competitive scholarship to attend the American Academy of Family Physicians meeting in Kansas City as a delegate representing the state chapter.

For more information about the AAFP Foundation Family Medicine Leads Emerging Leader Institute.

For more information on the LSUHS Family Medicine Rural Residency Program in Winnsboro.

Shreveport, La. – Dani Zoorob, MD, MHA, MBA, MHI, EdM, FACOG, FACS, CPE, FACHE, FAMIA, FAAPL has been named Interim Dean of LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine. Dr. Zoorob assumed the leadership role on March 30.

Dr. Zoorob brings more than two decades of clinical experience at academic institutions including numerous leadership roles at LSU Health Shreveport. He has served as the Chair of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Assistant Dean of Faculty Development. He was selected as a Certified Physician Executive and Fellow in the American College of Healthcare Executives, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the American College of Surgeons and the American Medical Informatics Association.

He is actively engaged in medical education at LSUHS School of Medicine serving on multiple medical school committees, as the LCME Site Visit Key Faculty Lead, and a Medical Student Practice-Based Learning Faculty member. He was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha society, the Gold Humanism Society and received the Humanism in Teaching Award in 2024 by the Association of Professors of Gynecology and Obstetrics. He is engaged in national surgical simulation and mentorship education programs (APGO SES), with more than 20 Undergraduate and Graduate Medical Education leadership roles. Dr. Zoorob received the Deans Award for Advising Excellence in 2021 while at the University of Toledo School of Medicine, including serving as the Residency Director for OB/Gyn and Vice Chair of Education where he led the institutional robotics curriculum, the UroGynecology medical student elective and co-chaired the annual regional institutional research competitions.

Dr. Zoorob holds a master’s in educational leadership from Harvard University, master’s degrees in health informatics and health administration from University of Cincinnati, and a master’s in business administration from the University of Toledo. His interest and knowledge in healthcare technology were demonstrated through his selection as the Chief Medical Information Officer for Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport.

Shreveport, La. – Dr. Lester W. Johnson has been named Senior Vice Chancellor of LSU Health Shreveport after serving as the Interim Chancellor, Interim Senior Vice Chancellor and Interim Dean of the LSUHS School of Medicine for the past eleven months.

“During his service as an interim leader, Dr. Johnson has provided steady leadership during a period of transition while continuing to advance LSU Health Shreveport’s mission of education, research and patient care. His deep knowledge of the institution, long-standing relationships across the campus, health system and state combined with his commitment to the people and communities of north Louisiana position him well to lead LSU Health Shreveport into its next chapter,” shared Jim Dalton, PhD, Chancellor, and Executive Vice President of LSU.

Dr. Johnson was named as the interim leader of LSU Health Shreveport in May of 2025 after serving in Monroe for the past thirty years as Professor and Chief of Surgery. His leadership roles increased through the years serving as the Assistant Dean for Rural Health Initiatives, and Vice Chancellor for Clinical and Academic Affairs. Dr. Johnson has served on the Board of Directors for the Ochsner LSU Health System of North Louisiana since its inception in 2018 and is currently Chairman of the Board. He is a recipient of the Life Award for Charity Hospital Level 1 Trauma Center and was named Alumnus of the Year by LSU Health New Orleans in 2013.

He is the past president of the Surgical Association of Louisiana, the Louisiana Chapter of the American College of Surgeons and the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners. He is the past and founding Chairman of the Louisiana Emergency Response Network (LERN) and has served on the State of Louisiana Trauma Taskforce. Dr. Johnson has published more than 90 scientific articles, delivered more than 100 presentations throughout his career and has served as Associate Editor of The Journal of Louisiana State Medical Society since 2002.

Dr. Johnson is a strong advocate for the realignment of LSU, paving the way for it to become a Top 50 research university. He is a proud undergraduate (LSU) and medical school graduate (LSU Health New Orleans School of Medicine) achieving Alpha Omega Alpha honors. Dr. Johnson pursued his surgical residency at then Charity Hospital in New Orleans serving as Chief Resident at Earl K Long Hospital in Baton Rouge.

“As we continue to build a more connected and collaborative LSU enterprise, Dr. Johnson’s leadership will be essential in ensuring LSU Health Shreveport remains a strong and forward-looking partner in our shared mission,” stated Jim Dalton.

“I am honored to serve LSU, our students, residents, faculty and staff as we strive to improve the health outcomes, economy and medical education in our great state of Louisiana.  I am extremely optimistic about the future of LSU Health Shreveport and LSU as a system and pledge my all to making a positive difference,” said Lester W. Johnson, MD.

Shreveport, La. – LSU Health Shreveport hosted its fifth annual Cancer Survivorship Walkathon on Saturday, March 28 at Betty Virginia Park, bringing together cancer survivors, students, healthcare professionals and community members for a morning of support, celebration and movement.

The event is led by LSU Health Shreveport students in partnership with the Ochsner LSU-Health Shreveport Feist-Weiller Cancer Center. It was founded by former medical student Tanner Ward, who recognized a need for a community-centered event focused on survivorship, wellness and exercise. More than just a walk, the event serves as a powerful reminder that no one faces cancer alone. 

“For me, I’m a medical student, and I’m also a current cancer patient,” said Nadia Haik, a third-year LSU Health Shreveport medical student and one of the event’s organizers. “It just means the world to have our community come out and support survivors like myself, and to lift everyone up not just during treatment, but in life after treatment.”

Participants walked alongside survivors and their families, while also connecting with medical staff and exploring resources from survivorship programs and local vendors offering products and services for cancer patients.

A highlight of the morning included survivors ringing the park’s survivorship bell. The bell, donated in 2018, is rung to celebrate victory over cancer, honor survivors, inspire those seeking a cure, thank caregivers and remember those lost to the disease.

Haik, who was diagnosed during her first year of medical school, reflected on the importance of community support throughout her journey.

“You definitely can’t do it alone,” she said. “Having this community, especially here at LSU Health Shreveport, makes it a whole lot easier.”

The walkathon is an extension of “Survivor Saturdays,” a weekly walking group held at Betty Virginia Park where medical students and survivors meet to support one another in maintaining healthy, active lifestyles. The group meets every Saturday at 9 a.m. and continues to grow as a cornerstone of survivorship support in the community.

Proceeds from the event, made possible through sponsors and donations, benefit the Wellness & Integrative Medicine Program at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport Feist-Weiller Cancer Center. The program provides comprehensive resources focused on mind, nutrition and movement to help patients transition from treatment to long-term wellness.

Today, 142 LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine students learned where they will go to complete their residency training during the annual Match Day celebration. Each year, on the third Friday in March at 11 a.m., all fourth-year medical students throughout the United States discover where they have “matched” to for their residency training. For applicants, Match Day signals the transition from undergraduate to graduate medical education.

LSU Health Shreveport is proud to announce that 97.8% of applicants matched, including those who were selected for research fellowships, with 95.1% of the School of Medicine’s applicants matching into clinical residencies through the National Resident Matching Program® (NMRP®) proving that LSUHS remains a strong competitor at the national level. The NMRP reported that the national average for the 2026 Main Residency Match® was 93.5%.

Of the 2026 class, 23.2% will be staying at LSU Health Shreveport for their residency with a total of 43.5% of the 2026 graduates staying in Louisiana. 76.7% of those staying in Louisiana for a residency will be doing so at an LSU affiliated academic medical center. Retaining students in Louisiana for their residency is critical for addressing Louisiana’s projected physician shortfall.

“LSU Health Shreveport is honored to have so many of our students continuing their medical education at our university hospitals which is vital to meeting the healthcare needs of our citizens,” stated Lester. W. Johnson, Interim Dean of LSUHS and Senior Vice Chancellor, LSU Health Shreveport.

According to the American Medical Association, Louisiana is projected to have the third-worst physician-shortage ratio in the U.S. by 2030, with an undersupply of 100 doctors for every 100,000 people.

The five-year match rate for the LSUHS School of Medicine is 98%. The class of 2026 will receive their Doctor of Medicine degrees on Saturday, May 9.

LSU Health Shreveport medical students matched to highly competitive residencies and will train in prestigious programs around the country including University of Alabama, University of Virginia, University of North Carolina, Mayo Clinic, New York Presbyterian, Barrow Neurological Institute, Rutgers, Baylor, University of Maine as well as several others.

“Today is a great day at LSU Health Shreveport as we continue to deliver a strong Match rate with so many of our students achieving this required step in becoming a practicing physician,” stated Johnson. “I salute each student for their hard work resulting in successfully competing in the national match. We are so proud of you! To the families and our faculty and staff who have invested in these students, congratulations as you too are winners today.”

Match Day also reveals the number of newly minted physicians coming into the Shreveport-Bossier area to begin their post-graduate training. The LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine successfully filled all 142 residency positions. This new group of trainees (residents and fellows) will be warmly welcomed to Shreveport in July, where they will train at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport - Academic Medical Center, St. Mary Medical Center, Monroe Medical Center and Rapides Regional Medical Center along with other partner hospitals.

LSU Health Shreveport has unveiled significant new enhancements to its Anatomical Sciences Wing, marking a major leap forward in how anatomy is taught to future physicians and health professionals in Louisiana and beyond.

The upgrades include a new Virtual Reality (VR) Anatomy Lab featuring 25 immersive VR workstations, representing an investment greater than $300,000.  This newly established facility is directly adjacent to a $3 million multi-year renovation of the Gross Anatomy Laboratory. Together, the spaces create a highly integrated, modern learning environment that blends traditional dissection with cutting-edge virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) technologies.

“These spaces work together in a truly synergistic way,” said Kevin J. McCarthy, PhD, Professor of Cellular Biology and Anatomy at LSU Health Shreveport. “What we now have is a revitalized approach to how we teach human anatomy, that combines the classic principles of anatomy education with some of the most advanced instructional tools available today.”

At the center of the new VR space are 25 Virtual Reality Anatomy Workstations, each powered by Dell Pro Max Tower T2 desktop computers equipped with 32GB RAM and NVIDIA RTX™ video processors.  The computers are connected to Meta Quest 3 headsets that run VH Dissector XR software from Touch of Life Technologies (Toltech).  The VH Dissector XR software allows students to explore and “dissect” virtual cadavers in augmented reality.

“With the headset on, students can see a cadaver in full 3D and carefully dissect it layer by layer. Muscles, nerves, vessels, organs, everything,” McCarthy explained. “They can rotate the body instantly, examine cross-sections and visualize anatomy with ease in ways that simply aren’t possible in a traditional lab alone.” Moreover, the software can simultaneously display cross-sectional anatomy in the same field of view.

Unlike physical dissection, the virtual environment allows students to view the entire body simultaneously without needing to physically reposition it. This reinforces spatial understanding and complex anatomical relationships. Students also have access to a 2D version of the VH Dissector software on their own laptops, extending learning beyond the lab.

“Beyond the novelty, the educational potential of this technology is remarkable,” said Claude LaHaye, a second-year medical student. “As a visual learner, I can honestly say this has the potential to be one of the greatest contributions to anatomy education that I have ever encountered.”

“There is no substitute for hands-on cadaveric dissection,” said McCarthy. “But this gives students an extremely powerful way to reinforce what they learn, especially between lab sessions. It helps cement their understanding of the human body.”

The VR facility works in tandem with the newly renovated Gross Anatomy Lab, which has undergone a $3 million transformation over the past few years. The lab now has 34 workstations that feature:

• Ergonomic, ADA compliant adjustable tables with raise, lower and tilt capabilities
• Integrated computers and monitors at each station
• A closed-circuit HVAC system, designed to reduce formaldehyde exposure
• Connectivity allowing instructors to broadcast demonstrations to every workstation, simultaneously
• Enhanced lighting

The lab is large enough to accommodate more than 150 students at one time, supporting students from the Schools of Medicine, Graduate Studies, as well as students from the School of Health Sciences, whose students are from the disciplines of Physical Therapy, Physician Assistant and Occupational Therapy.

“This laboratory renovation is also major step forward in how we deliver anatomy education,” McCarthy said. “Since the workstations are interconnected with the Professor’s workstation, we can ensure that every student receives the same instruction at the same time, with the ability to immediately apply it at their own workstation.”

With 25 dedicated VR anatomy workstations, he believes that LSU Health Shreveport now operates one of the largest virtual anatomy facilities of its kind in Louisiana. Future plans include expanding use of the facility for resident and fellow training. Students began using the new VR lab in early January, marking a new chapter for anatomy education at LSU Health Shreveport.

“You wouldn’t want a mechanic who’s never touched a car working on your vehicle,” McCarthy said. “In the same way, you wouldn’t want a physician who doesn’t deeply understand anatomy, caring for patients. This facility helps ensure our students are exceptionally prepared.”

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of Education have announced that more than 50 of the nation's top medical schools across 31 states, including the LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine, have committed to strengthening nutrition education for future physicians. Participating schools will ensure medical students receive at least 40 hours of nutrition education or complete a competency-based equivalent. The initiative aligns with national recommendations to better equip physicians with the knowledge needed to prevent and manage chronic disease through nutrition.

At LSU Health Shreveport School of Medicine, nutrition education has long been an integral and enduring part of the curriculum. The current curriculum’s nutrition education is a defining pillar throughout the entire medical student’s educational journey, from foundational sciences courses to hands-on clinical training and advanced elective classes. This approach ensures students learn how nutrition impacts health and how to apply that knowledge through patient care.

“Physician expertise in nutritional sciences is a fundamental component of high-quality, patient-centered care,” said Kelly Pagidas, MD, MA, FACOG, FRCSC, Senior Associate Dean for Medical Education and Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at LSU Health Shreveport. “Nutrition has a direct impact on disease prevention, management of chronic disease, health promotion and long-term health outcomes across a patient’s lifespan.”

During the pre-clinical years, students will learn the biochemistry and physiology of nutrition while studying organ systems such as cardiovascular, endocrine, gastrointestinal and renal health. Early clinical training will introduce students to nutrition history-taking, dietary assessment and communication strategies to support patient behavior change.

As students move into clinical clerkships, nutrition will be incorporated into direct patient care experiences in specialties such as family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics and obstetrics and gynecology. Students will assess nutritional status, interpret metabolic biomarkers and apply nutrition-based interventions in treatment plans.

In the final phase of training, new Lifestyle and Culinary Medicine electives will allow students to deepen their understanding of nutrition science while gaining hands-on experience with food preparation and dietary counseling. The Bakowski Kitchen for Culinary Medicine, located in the recently opened Center for Medical Education building, demonstrates the medical school’s continued commitment on nutritional education. The 911-square-foot industrial teaching kitchen facilitates the hands-on experiences that are essential to teaching nutritional education and healthy food preparation.

“By embedding nutrition education across the curriculum, our graduates will be prepared to evaluate, communicate and apply evidence-based nutrition principles in diverse clinical settings,” Pagidas said. “This approach ensures physicians are equipped to integrate nutrition-informed, patient-centered care into everyday practice.”

The initiative is especially relevant in Louisiana, where rates of chronic disease linked to diet and lifestyle remain among the highest in the nation.

Louisiana ranks near the top nationally for obesity, diabetes, hypertension and kidney disease. Approximately 40–44% of adults in the state are obese and have high blood pressure, and roughly 15–16% of adults have been diagnosed with diabetes. Childhood obesity also affects nearly one in four Louisiana children ages 6–17.

“Nutrition is a cornerstone of preventive medicine and central to managing chronic diseases that physicians encounter every day,” Pagidas said. “Strengthening nutrition education ensures our graduates are prepared to help patients improve health outcomes and build healthier communities.”

“The strategic integration of nutritional sciences into medical education positions our graduates to provide more effective preventive care,” Pagidas said. “It strengthens our commitment to improving the health of the communities we serve.”

Lafayette, La. – Responding to Louisiana’s growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals, LSU Health Shreveport’s School of Health Professions and Sciences has launched a hybrid Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program in Lafayette, the first of its kind in Louisiana. The program was officially unveiled at a ribbon-cutting ceremony, March 2 at the new Lafayette campus site, located at 902 Coolidge Street. Fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE), the program will welcome its inaugural class of 24 students in May 2026.

Developed in partnership with Ochsner Lafayette General, the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) through its Healthcare Education Reinvestment Opportunity (HERO) Fund, and Rehab Essentials, the strategic resource for licensure-track health programs, this innovative program expands access to physical therapy education in Southwest Louisiana and addresses critical workforce needs across the state.

“I tell everyone how excited I am to be part of this inaugural class of future physical therapists,” said Camille Fletcher, one of the 24 students who will begin the program in May. “As an Acadiana native, this program from LSU Health Shreveport was my first choice for physical therapy school, and I can’t wait for classes to begin.”

The hybrid model combines online coursework with hands-on clinical education through partnerships with healthcare providers like Ochsner Lafayette General, allowing students to train close to home while gaining the expertise and experience needed to serve patients statewide.

Through this collaboration, LSU Health Shreveport DPT hybrid program - Lafayette joins a select group of universities implementing the enTandem DPT℠ model, a comprehensive framework that extends far beyond curriculum. enTandem DPT℠ integrates academic design, hybrid faculty development, accreditation alignment and long-term operational support.

The Rehab Essentials enTandem DPT℠ model is designed not only to accelerate program launch, but also to sustain excellence, creating clear pathways from classroom to clinical practice and employment. This collaboration allows LSU Health Shreveport to expand its reach in Louisiana while advancing student success and strengthening the healthcare workforce its communities rely on.

“By bringing our Doctor of Physical Therapy program to Lafayette, we are expanding opportunity for students and addressing the healthcare workforce needs of our communities,” said Sharon Dunn, PT, PhD, Dean of the School of Health Professions and Sciences.

Physical therapy plays a vital role in helping individuals recover mobility, manage pain and maintain long-term physical function across their lifespans. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of physical therapists is projected to grow 11% from 2024 to 2034, a rate much higher than the national average of occupations. This will create an anticipated estimate of 13,200 job openings each year, due to growth and replacement needs. Workforce development initiatives like the new hybrid Doctor of Physical Therapy program in Lafayette are essential to expanding access to high-quality care and meeting Louisiana’s mounting need for skilled physical therapists.

“This collaboration connects LSU Health Shreveport’s academic excellence with Ochsner Lafayette General’s clinical expertise,” added Daniel Flowers, PT, PhD, Chair of the Department of Physical Therapy. “The hybrid format allows students to stay in their communities while earning a top-quality DPT degree.”

“This program creates new opportunities in Acadiana and ensures our patients have access to well-trained physical therapists,” said Patrick Gandy, Chief Executive Officer, Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center.

“This partnership demonstrates the power of collaboration between academic and healthcare systems to meet Louisiana’s workforce needs,” said Leonardo Seoane, MD, FACP Executive Vice President and Chief Academic Officer, Ochsner Health.

“Through the innovative HERO fund utilizing public-private partnerships, the Department set out to reduce barriers to healthcare programs that create pipelines into high-demand health careers for Louisiana students. This program is a great example of that goal,” said LDH Secretary Bruce Greenstein.           

ABOUT REHAB ESSENTIALS
Rehab Essentials Inc. is an edTech company dedicated to driving the modernization and optimization of health professions education programs at universities worldwide. By partnering with academic institutions, Rehab Essentials provides innovative, customized solutions to deliver high-quality, scalable health professions education, helping universities meet the continuing demand for increased capacity and steady revenue growth with affordable, accessible programs.

ABOUT enTANDEM DPT℠
enTandem DPT℠ is a ready-to-launch hybrid entry-level Doctor of Physical Therapy program—designed to eliminate the time, cost, and complexity of developing a hybrid delivery model alone. It provides a proven academic framework that shortens time to market by up to two years, drives new enrollment and revenue opportunities, and empowers universities to deliver a high-quality program that reflects their mission, values, and academic standards. Learn more at .

ABOUT OCHSNER LAFAYETTE GENERAL
Ochsner Lafayette General has more than 5,500 employees and serves 220,000 patients per year. The organization includes Ochsner Lafayette General Medical Center (Ochsner LGMC); Ochsner Lafayette General Orthopedic Hospital; Ochsner Lafayette General Surgical Hospital; Ochsner St. Martin Hospital; Ochsner University Hospital & Clinics (Ochsner UHC); Ochsner Acadia General Hospital; Ochsner Abrom Kaplan Memorial Hospital; Ochsner American Legion Hospital; and a number of clinics, urgent cares and professional centers. Ochsner LGMC is the only Level II Trauma Center in Southwest Louisiana. Both Ochsner LGMC and Ochsner UHC are major teaching hospitals, providing graduate medical education across many disciplines.

Shreveport, La. – Supporters of the Ochsner LSU Health – Feist-Weiller Cancer Center (FWCC) gathered at the Scottish Rite Cathedral on Thursday, February 12, 2026 for the annual Life Savers gala. Life Savers is a celebration and opportunity to raise vital funds for North Louisiana’s only academic cancer center. FWCC serves an area with immense need and some of the highest incidences of cancer in the nation.

Proceeds from the fundraiser will support renovations to the McDade House, a hospitality home that will provide FWCC patients who must travel for their cancer treatment a comfortable space to receive outpatient care.

The impact of the McDade House extends beyond out-of-town patients. By adding dedicated hospitality housing, FWCC can continue expanding advanced therapies — such as cellular therapies including CAR-T— helping ensure more patients across the Shreveport-Bossier region can receive cutting-edge care without leaving their community.

“As the only academic cancer center in North Louisiana, we tackle some of the highest cancer incidence rates in the country. The renovation of the McDade House isn't just a building project; it is a vital clinical resource,” said Dr. Richard Mansour, Director of Feist-Weiller Cancer Center. “By removing the barrier of travel and lodging, we allow our patients to focus entirely on their recovery while we provide them with the most advanced cellular therapies available today.”

In attendance at this year’s event was author, television personality and philanthropist Monyetta Shaw-Carter. A Shreveport native and recent breast cancer survivor, Monyetta brings a deeply personal connection to FWCC’s mission and a powerful voice for patients and families navigating cancer.

“Being back in my hometown of Shreveport to support this mission is incredibly personal for me,” said Shaw-Carter. “After my own battle with breast cancer, I understand that healing requires more than just medicine; it requires a support system. The McDade House will be that support system for so many, offering a place of peace and comfort during the hardest fight of their lives.”

During the event, FWCC honored Dr. Gary Burton and Dr. Glenn Mills, who each mark 40 years of service to Feist-Weiller Cancer Center. Their leadership and commitment to patient care and education have left a lasting impact on our institution and the many physicians they have mentored.

“Dr. Burton and Dr. Mills have been the heart and soul of this cancer center for four decades,” said Dr. Mike Sewell, Professor and Chair of Internal Medicine at LSU Health Shreveport. “Their dedication has not only saved countless lives but has also shaped the careers of every physician they’ve mentored, myself included. It is only fitting that as we celebrate their 40 years of service, we continue their legacy by investing in the McDade House and the future of patient-centered care at Feist-Weiller Cancer Center.”

This year, Life Savers raised more than $200,000 dollars thanks to the generosity of sponsors and patrons. All the proceeds will be directed to Feist-Weiller's $2.1M capital campaign to restore the home and bring it back into operation. The McDade House has been closed for several years, and the campaign to renovate the building will provide much-needed updates.

Life Savers 2026: Golden Age Gala is generously sponsored by Genentech. A special thank you to additional sponsors is extended to BRF; Cancer Focus Fund; SWEPCO Foundation; Drs. Furqan Akhtar, Scott Boniol, Neelima Chintapalli, & Deepika Ralla; Argent Financial Group; Dr. Scott & Kristin Barrilleaux and Dr. Dani Zoorob; Drs. Beedupalli, Devarashetty, Gaddam, & Ramadas; Susan B. Berry; Dr. Gary Burton & Dr. Glenn Mills; Apoorva Cheeti & Shashank Cingam; Daiichi Sankyo; Srinivas Devarakonda; The Koticha Family; Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry; LSU Health Shreveport Department of Orthopaedic Surgery; Dr. and Mrs. Mansour; Dr. & Ms. Robert Muldoon; Ochsner LSU Health; Lynn & Armand Roos and Connie & Donald Posner; RoseStone Wealth Advisors; Dr. Guillermo & Andrea Sangster; Shed It! Weight Loss & Wellness; and, Somdal Associates.

Shreveport, La. – The LSU Health Sciences Foundation and Ochsner LSU Health announced today the launch of a new grateful patient philanthropy program. This collaboration is designed to streamline the philanthropy process, providing a clear pathway for patients and families to support the healthcare system and the North Louisiana communities it serves.

The Grateful Patient Giving program provides patients an opportunity to express appreciation for the care they received through philanthropic donations. These contributions will directly support Ochsner LSU Health, including patient care initiatives, the acquisition of advanced technology, and the expansion of community health programs.

“Grateful patient philanthropy is about more than just fundraising; it’s about providing a meaningful way for our patients and their families to heal while impacting the future of healthcare in our region,” said David Callecod, chief executive officer of Ochsner LSU Health. “This partnership exemplifies how our community benefits when organizations share a vision for healthier communities and a brighter future.”

As the philanthropic arm of Ochsner LSU Health, the LSU Health Sciences Foundation will build and steward lifelong relationships with patients and families, raise critical philanthropic support, and dedicate resources directly to Ochsner LSU Health. The Foundation will continue to engage with donors to support the research and academic missions of LSU Health Shreveport. This new program will assist North Louisiana’s academic health center in continuing to improve our region’s health and well-being for years to come.

“The Foundation has been working with grateful patients since our founding in 1997, and we’re excited to continue to support Ochsner LSU Health and the community through philanthropy,” said Kevin Flood, President and CEO of the LSU Health Sciences Foundation. “This program strengthens the bridge between the world-class clinical care provided at Ochsner LSU Health and LSU Health Shreveport’s critical mission of health care education and medical research.”

Philanthropic support through the Foundation has recently funded equipment for the NICUs at Ochsner LSU Health Shreveport and Monroe, and an additional transesophageal echocardiogram machine to support the trauma, burn and ICU departments.

To learn more or make a gift online, visit www.lsuhsfoundation.org/grateful-patient

Shreveport, La. – LSU Health Shreveport’s Center for Brain Health will host a free Community Forum on Parkinson’s Disease on Saturday, Feb. 21, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Center for Medical Education Building, located at 1634 Jennings Street in Shreveport. The event is open to the public and designed to educate and uplift individuals living with Parkinson’s disease, caregivers, family members, healthcare providers and anyone seeking to better understand the condition.

Parkinson’s disease affects an estimated 2% of people over the age of 65 in Northwest Louisiana, a prevalence that experts say underscores the need for education, early detection and access to specialized care.

“Part of the challenge with Parkinson’s disease is that people don’t always realize they have it,” said Elizabeth Disbrow, PhD, Professor of Neurology and Director of the Center for Brain Health at LSUHS. “Someone may notice a tremor and think it’s just part of aging, but there’s actually a huge amount we can do to improve quality of life if people seek care early.”

The day-long forum will feature presentations from neurologists, researchers and national experts, including representatives from the Michael J. Fox Foundation, who will share updates from international Parkinson’s research studies. Topics will include disease prevention, environmental risk factors, advances in treatment, caregiving support, new local resources, and opportunities for community members to participate in local clinical research.

“We’re learning so much more about the environmental factors that impact Parkinson’s disease, and that’s very exciting,” said Disbrow. “We’re also excited to share results from large-scale genetic studies that many people in our community have already contributed to. The findings so far are incredibly interesting and give us real hope for more personalized treatments in the future.”

In addition to medical advances, the forum will address the often-overlooked realities of Parkinson’s caregiving, supported by a keynote address from Terri Pease, PhD, author of the book “Love, Dignity and Parkinson’s: from Care Partner to Caregiver.”

“Parkinson’s caregiving is unique and doesn’t get the attention it deserves,” Disbrow said. “Dr. Pease is an author and former caregiver who brings a powerful, personal perspective on what support really looks like for families living with this disease.”

The Community Forum on Parkinson’s Disease is free to attend, and questions for the presenters are encouraged. There are options to attend both in-person and virtually. Lunch is included for those who attend in-person and register in advance.

Learn more, and pre-register online at https://www.lsuhs.edu/PDforum

A Caddo Parish student has been named the first recipient of a newly established scholarship supporting first-generation college students at LSU Health Shreveport. The LSU Health Sciences Foundation announced that Macey Duncan, a Physician Assistant Studies student at LSU Health Shreveport’s School of Health Professions and Sciences, has been awarded the inaugural Margaret Shehee Cole Endowed Scholarship for First-Generation Students. The scholarship was created to help ease the financial burdens of graduate school, allowing LSU Health Shreveport students to focus on becoming the best healthcare providers possible.

The scholarship is named for Margaret Shehee and David Cole, long-time supporters of LSU Health Shreveport. Margaret’s husband, David, has received physical and occupational therapy at the Faculty Rehabilitation Clinic in the School of Health Professions and Sciences. As a show of gratitude for the care he has received, Margaret and David decided to create an endowed scholarship that would provide a pathway for students to pursue a degree in health professions.

“David and I are profoundly honored to establish this scholarship and play a part in Macey Duncan’s journey, as well as the journeys of future first-generation students,” said Margaret. “Witnessing the exceptional care David has received at LSU Health Shreveport inspired us to give back, ensuring that aspiring healthcare professionals, regardless of their background, can realize their dreams. It is our hope that this scholarship lifts financial burdens and empowers these talented students to focus on their education and become the compassionate, skilled providers our community needs.”

“The path to this point has not always been easy, especially with financial strain constantly in the background, but those challenges have shaped me and made my journey more meaningful,” said Macey. “Receiving the Shehee Cole Endowed Scholarship for First-Generation Students is an honor that will make a lasting impact on my education and future as a PA. This scholarship is a powerful reminder that my hard work and dreams are seen and valued, and I am immensely grateful for the lasting impact this scholarship will have on my education and the future provider I will become.”

The Shehee Cole Endowed Scholarship was the first endowed scholarship for the School of Health Professions and Sciences.

“We are incredibly grateful to Margaret Shehee and David Cole for their generosity, which directly supports our most deserving students,” said Dr. Sharon Dunn, Dean of the School of Health Professions and Sciences. “This gift ensures our students can dedicate themselves fully to their demanding studies and emerge as the highly skilled, compassionate healthcare professionals that LSU Health Shreveport is known for, and that our community truly needs.”

To learn more or support scholarship opportunities, visit LSUHS Foundation Scholarships.

Laurie Priftis, Director of Marketing & Communications, LSU Health Sciences Foundation - Shreveport
LPriftis@lsuhsfoundation.org | 318-861-0855

Mark Klein, Public Relations Coordinator, LSU Health Shreveport
Mark.Klein@lsuhs.edu | 318-675-8789