Louisiana

From Monroe, Louisiana, to the Mayo Clinic: Genesis Lambert’s Journey to Residency Success

ebailey — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 18:12:20 +0000

From Monroe, Louisiana, to the Mayo Clinic: Genesis Lambert’s Journey to Residency Success ebailey Thu, 06/19/2025 - 14:12

From Monroe, Louisiana, to the Mayo Clinic: Genesis Lambert’s Journey to Residency Success

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When Genesis Lambert opened her Match Day envelope, her hands were trembling. It had been weeks of anticipation, a slow build of anxiety and hope that came to a head in one cathartic moment she’ll never forget.

As she held the match letter in her hands in a room full of her peers, all waiting to open letters to determine their fate, her chest tightening as she held her breath, Tara Lowe, student affairs director, began the countdown from ten to one, which brought a recurring thought: Don’t rip the letter!

THREE… TWO.. ONE. Her eyes raced across the page as she hurriedly scanned the words that held her fate for the next three years.

“I looked up at my fiancé and barely got my words out— we’re going to Wisconsin!” before erupting in tears,” she recalls. “I genuinely did not expect to match at my #1 ranked program. From the interview day to Match Day, my inner saboteur kept me from daydreaming about Mayo to protect myself from disappointment.”

But the letter didn’t lie. Genesis, a small-town Louisiana native who had spent nearly a decade forging her path through hard work, resilience, and authenticity, had matched at the Mayo Clinic in Wisconsin for a family medicine residency.

“It felt like time stood still,” she says. “Those tears were for the effort, for the people who believed in me, and for finally seeing in myself what they’ve seen all along.”

Local Roots and Lifelong Lessons

Genesis’s story is uniquely rooted in Monroe, Louisiana, where she earned her undergraduate degree in toxicology at the University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM) and her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree at �鶹��ýӳ��-Louisiana. However, her education wasn’t limited to the classroom. For years, she also worked as a waitress at Geno’s Italian Restaurant, a local favorite, where she gained insights that textbooks could never provide.

“Waiting tables shaped me as much as any lecture,” she says. “Week after week, I got to know our regulars, sharing in their celebrations, listening to their struggles, just being part of their lives. That connection, that trust—it’s exactly what I want to bring to my future patients.”

It was at Geno’s that she began to see the parallels between serving tables and serving in the medical field. “Both require you to meet people where they are. To listen. To understand that every person who walks through the door has their own story, their own needs.”

That early exposure to deep human connection was a spark—one that burned even brighter during her time at ULM and ignited at �鶹��ýӳ��-Louisiana.

A Dual Foundation: ULM and �鶹��ýӳ��

Having attended the Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts (LSMSA) in high school, Genesis was well-acquainted with rigorous academics. At ULM, she found a welcoming home in the toxicology department, where passionate faculty fueled her curiosity and supported her transition from pharmacy to medicine.

“They made complex science feel accessible,” she says. “That’s a skill I hope to emulate with my patients, to explain things clearly, to empower them through understanding. These same faculty members showed unwavering support when I decided to pursue medicine instead of pharmacy school during my final year of undergrad.”

�鶹��ýӳ��-Louisiana, meanwhile, gave her the space to embrace her identity as a future physician fully. “From day one, I felt welcomed. I found a place that honored the whole person—body, mind, and spirit—and showed me there’s room in medicine for every personality. That authenticity is a strength, not something to hide.”

She continued, “�鶹��ýӳ��’s local presence and continuous advocacy enabled me to give back to the same community that has supported me for the past eight years, while also deepening my understanding of how to meet the diverse needs of future patients. �鶹��ýӳ��’s nurturing environment fostered my personal growth and resilience, helping me blossom into a compassionate and capable physician.”

Through service learning, mentorship, and community engagement, Genesis evolved into the physician she is today: compassionate, grounded, and wholly committed to holistic care.

Representing More Than Just Herself

Genesis knows her journey is bigger than just her own. She’s carrying the names of two institutions—ULM and �鶹��ýӳ��-Louisiana—into one of the most prestigious health systems in the country.

“ULM gave me the academic footing even to consider this path,” she says. “�鶹��ýӳ�� helped me grow into a clinician who leads with compassion and community. I hope to reflect both schools well, as a physician who listens, who teaches, and who pays it forward.”

And for those coming from small towns or non-traditional paths, Genesis has a message:

Give yourself a try. It can be scary to leap, especially when you feel like you don’t fit the perfect mold of what you think a future doctor should be. But medicine needs more people who’ve seen life from different angles. I have seen firsthand how individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, rural communities, and diverse life experiences bring essential insight, empathy, and authenticity to the profession. Curiosity, dedication, and staying true to yourself will lead you exactly where you are meant to be.

Genesis Lambert, DO , �鶹��ýӳ��-Louisiana Class of 2025 Graduate

As Genesis looks ahead to residency, she is eager for the professional and personal growth that lies ahead alongside her future co-residents. The Mayo Clinic’s guiding value, “the needs of the patient come first,” resonates deeply with her, as it aligns closely with the osteopathic philosophy of holistic, whole-body care. She is especially excited to continue refining her osteopathic skills and to learn from others who share her passion for osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT). Over the next three years, Genesis aims to grow into a versatile family physician who confidently integrates primary care with osteopathic principles and who is well-prepared to pursue further specialization through an osteopathic neuromuscular medicine program.

She encourages those considering a future in medicine to dream big and take the chance. You never know where that envelope might take you.

Louisiana

By Danielle Voumard -

Sydney Gould

ebailey — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 18:46:37 +0000

Sydney Gould ebailey Mon, 06/16/2025 - 14:46

Was there anything or anyone at �鶹��ýӳ�� that inspired you to become the physician you are today?
[Former �鶹��ýӳ�� employee] Dr. Sneed inspired me to continue fine-tuning my OMT skills to better serve my patients, truly care about my patients and how they are doing as a whole, and approach healthcare with compassion. Before OMM lab, Dr. Sneed would always check in with us and make sure we were in the right mental space, especially after an exam.

How has the �鶹��ýӳ�� mission inspired you during residency or in your practice?
As an Army physician, you must keep a community-focused mindset when treating soldiers. Knowing that the care you give will impact the Army’s combat readiness, will help keep that mindset to provide the best care you can give.

What is the best advice you can give a medical student to help them in their path towards being a physician?
My advice is to give yourself grace and learn from your mistakes. Find a trusted friend or family member outside of medical school to support you and help you reinforce your goals. Finally, it is okay not to know everything during clinical rotations. Be open to feedback and learning.

What are your fondest memories about your time at �鶹��ýӳ��?
Finding the right study partner and making them my "battle buddy". When you have someone you can lean on when you are having a bad day, and hold each other accountable, it will make medical school better. I also really enjoyed the yearly crawfish boil, getting together with friends, and enjoying some good food and company.

What career accomplishment are you most proud of?
As I am just starting residency, I am proud of my resiliency and adaptability that I learned in medical school. Moving forward, these traits will be very important in residency and practicing medicine in the Army.

When not working, what activities do you enjoy?
I enjoy hiking, spending time with my significant other and dog, hanging out with friends, and binge-watching shows or movies. I also enjoy traveling when I have enough time and funds.

Sydney Gould, DO

Graduated: Class of 2025

Campus: Louisiana

Prior Schools: University of Southern California, Christopher Newport University

Degrees: M.S., Global Medicine, B.S., Neuroscience and Cellular/Molecular Biology

Hometown: Springfield, VA

I am proud of my resiliency and adaptability that I learned in medical school. Moving forward, these traits will be very important in residency and practicing medicine in the Army.

Alumni

Residency: Madigan Army Medical Center

Specialty: Emergency Medicine

Brennan Medlin

ebailey — Mon, 16 Jun 2025 17:44:49 +0000

Brennan Medlin ebailey Mon, 06/16/2025 - 13:44

Who or what has inspired you while at �鶹��ýӳ��?
The mission trip I did at Tegucigalpa, Honduras, has inspired me while at �鶹��ýӳ��. This trip helped me with my clinical skills since I was able to see patients for the first time and work with a physician. It also showed the value of teamwork in the medical setting since I had to work with different people, such as the pharmacist. This trip reminded me why I went into medicine, which is helping the underserved. What will stick with me is the gratitude and resilience of the people we served. I am forever grateful for having gone on this trip to serve the people of Honduras and will use it to become a better physician.

How has the �鶹��ýӳ�� mission inspired you as a medical student?
The �鶹��ýӳ�� mission statement inspired me as a medical student since I have grown up in Louisiana my whole life and have seen many underserved areas. I have also helped serve underserved areas in Texas and want to continue to help people in Louisiana who are underserved. �鶹��ýӳ��'s goal to improve healthcare access globally matches my long-term goals.

Who or what inspired you to study medicine?
My mom is who inspired me to study medicine since I was able to see how she was able to make a difference in many people's lives as a NICU nurse practitioner. She also emphasized the importance of hard work and discipline in school.

Why did you choose �鶹��ýӳ��?
I chose �鶹��ýӳ�� because of its mission statement on helping underserved areas, which is what I want to do when I become a physician. I also liked the community feeling ever since I have been at �鶹��ýӳ��. Everyone wants you to do well in your classes and will help you with anything you need.

What do you enjoy most about living in the area around your campus?
I enjoy having the ULM campus right next to �鶹��ýӳ�� since I am able to use their gym, and they also have the HUB where you can eat. I also enjoy the different places to eat and the parks they have in the area.

What do you like to do in your free time?
I enjoy lifting weights and playing pickleball with my friends. I also enjoy watching sports, especially LSU, and I have started to enjoy cooking. I enjoy traveling whenever I get the chance, which includes destinations such as New York, Colorado, Utah, and Mexico.

Are you interested in a particular practice or specialty once you graduate? What has inspired your interest in this specialty?
A specialty I am interested in is anesthesia. I became inspired when I was in high school and had the opportunity to shadow an Anesthesiologist with my uncle, who is a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA). I enjoy the different procedural skills they perform and how they treat patients of all ranges.

Brennan Medlin

Graduated: Class of 2027

Campus: Louisiana

Prior School: McNeese State University

Degree: Biology

Hometown: Lake Charles, LA

The �鶹��ýӳ�� mission statement inspired me as a medical student since I have grown up in Louisiana my whole life and have seen many underserved areas.

Student

�鶹��ýӳ��-Louisiana Celebrates 2025 Inductees into Gold Humanism Honor Society

aostroth@vt.vcom.edu — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 12:35:21 +0000

�鶹��ýӳ��-Louisiana Celebrates 2025 Inductees into Gold Humanism Honor Society aostroth@vt.vcom.edu Thu, 06/12/2025 - 08:35

�鶹��ýӳ��-Louisiana Celebrates 2025 Inductees into Gold Humanism Honor Society

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With the tranquil waters of Bayou DeSiard and the �鶹��ýӳ��–Louisiana campus as a backdrop, 22 exceptional medical students were inducted into the prestigious Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) during a meaningful ceremony held on June 4, 2025, at the ULM Library Terrace. Nominated by their peers and selected by a faculty committee, these students were recognized for their unwavering compassion, empathy, and integrity in patient care, which are hallmarks of the GHHS mission.

Arnold P. Gold was a prominent physician, professor, and humanist who made significant contributions to the field of medicine, particularly in promoting humanism in healthcare. He was a pediatric neurologist and a professor at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. His legacy continues through The Arnold P. Gold Foundation and its initiatives, including the Gold Humanism Honor Society.

The Gold Humanism Award recognizes and celebrates medical professionals, including students, residents, and faculty, who demonstrate exemplary humanistic behaviors in the field of medicine. The GHHS promotes a culture of caring and respect in healthcare, ensuring patients are treated with dignity, kindness, and compassion.

Randy Devereaux, PhD, and Ray Morrison, DO, FACOS, DFACOS, spoke during the ceremony, offering heartfelt congratulations and words of encouragement to the inductees.

These students exemplify this earned trust by having their patients’ welfare at the center of everything they do. The patients see it, their classmates see it, and their faculty see it as well. Our GHHS members represent the best parts of us as medical practitioners and as an osteopathic medical school.

Randy L. Aldret, EdD, LAT, ATC, CSCS*D

Randy L. Aldret, EdD, LAT, ATC, CSCS*D, also addressed the group. Aldret shared, “It is an honor to be the faculty advisor for this award society at �鶹��ýӳ��–Louisiana. Their peers nominated these students for their demonstrated commitment to health care and human kindness. It is even more special for the osteopathically trained due to the nature of the human connection associated with osteopathic manipulative medicine. These students exemplify this earned trust by having their patients’ welfare at the center of everything they do. The patients see it, their classmates see it, and their faculty see it as well. Our GHHS members represent the best parts of us as medical practitioners and as an osteopathic medical school.”

Students took the GHHS oath at the ceremony, solemnly committing to upholding essential humanistic values throughout their future medical careers. This honor reflects not only the individual achievements of the inductees, but also �鶹��ýӳ��–Louisiana’s continued commitment to humanism in medicine. As they carry these values forward, their example will help shape a more compassionate future in healthcare.

awards

Louisiana

By Danielle Voumard -

Administrative Assistant for Biomedical Division

cellis01 — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 19:39:51 +0000

Administrative Assistant for Biomedical Division cellis01 Tue, 06/10/2025 - 15:39

Provides administrative support to the Biomedical faculty and the Associate Dean for Biomedical Affairs and Research. Participates in the support of college wide events and needs. See complete position description.

Campus: Louisiana

Status: Classified Staff Positions

View complete job description (PDF)

Shelda St. Preux

ebailey — Tue, 10 Jun 2025 13:50:28 +0000

Shelda St. Preux ebailey Tue, 06/10/2025 - 09:50

Who or what has inspired you while at �鶹��ýӳ��?
My family, friends, and loved ones primarily have been my constant source of strength. Although many of them may not fully grasp the weight of what this journey entails, their unwavering support has carried me through some of the most difficult moments. I am truly loved, and that love makes all the difference. It surrounds me like a safety net, reminding me that even when I stumble, I will not fall far. Their prayers, encouragement, and quiet sacrifices have made this path more bearable. They inspire me to keep going, not just for myself, but for all of us, for the dreams they planted in me, and for the future we’re building together.

Dr. Annecie Noel also has been such an inspiration to me. We share an identical background, and seeing someone with similar roots who is excelling in this field reminds me of what is possible. Although medicine plays a major role in our lives, I’m so grateful to have someone who is well-rounded and grounded. She looks out for me, checks in regularly, gives sound advice, and has truly been a blessing in my journey. Having someone like her in my corner inspires me to be that kind of presence for others.

How has the �鶹��ýӳ�� mission inspired you as a medical student?
I have always been deeply involved in every community I’ve been part of, whether through volunteering or participating in faith-centered spaces. �鶹��ýӳ��’s mission to develop globally and community-minded physicians aligns seamlessly with who I’ve always been. I’m grateful to be part of a culture that not only values outreach but actively empowers us to make an impact, both locally and globally.

It reminds me that medicine is more than a career. It’s a calling. And I am called to serve.

Who or what inspired you to study medicine?
My journey to medicine has several layers. I have always said I wanted to be a doctor since childhood, but as I grew older, I started to recognize how deeply the field needs diverse voices. I was the child who accompanied my mom to her doctor’s appointments just so I could translate. I remember thinking how much more efficient and comforting it would be if the physician actually spoke her language. Not just her native tongue, but also understood why she drank herbal teas or was hesitant to take certain medications. Our perspective as future physicians shapes how we level with our patients, how empathetic we are, and how effectively we partner with them in their care. That realization is what truly ignited my passion.

My aunt’s passing was a turning point in my life. It opened my eyes to the true impact medicine can have. It is a pendulum that can swing toward healing or, at times, toward heartbreak. Being on the receiving end of that, whether directly or through someone you love, fuels a passion unlike anything else. It teaches you what good medicine looks like, what gaps need to be filled, and the kind of care every patient deserves. That experience gave me purpose and helped me see that my voice and presence in this field matter.

Why did you choose �鶹��ýӳ��?
Osteopathic medicine immediately resonated with me. Coming from a culture where holistic care is second nature, it felt like the perfect fit. I appreciate that osteopathic philosophy values the whole person, not just the illness. On top of that, �鶹��ýӳ��’s systems-based curriculum, dedicated board prep block, and unique exam structure all stood out to me. Now that I have completed a year, I can say it truly makes a difference in how I learn and retain information.

What sealed it for me was �鶹��ýӳ��’s global outreach programs and their mission to serve the underserved, both locally and internationally. As the daughter of Haitian immigrants, I wholeheartedly intend to return to my country of heritage to serve. Having the opportunity to navigate international medicine as early as my second year of medical school, and even into rotations and beyond, is truly a privilege. �鶹��ýӳ��’s values don’t just align with mine, they actively equip me to fulfill them.

What do you enjoy most about living in the area around your campus?
Coming from South Florida, I’ve really appreciated the slower pace and tight-knit feel of Monroe. It’s peaceful and grounding, which is essential in such a rigorous program. I also love the way the community embraces us as student doctors. People are not only welcoming, but genuinely interested in partnering with us, whether it is for health fairs, outreach, or service events. It makes me feel like I am a valued part of something greater than myself.

What do you like to do in your free time?
Work-life harmony is very important to me, so I am intentional about creating boundaries and maintaining a schedule that allows me to rest and recharge. I enjoy journaling and spending time outdoors. I also play tennis and absolutely love traveling and embarking on new adventures. Some countries I have visited recently include Turks and Caicos, Brazil, Thailand, Greece, and Jamaica. Medical school has taught me how precious time is, so I prioritize connecting with my family, friends, and loved ones whenever I can.

Are you interested in a particular practice or specialty once you graduate? What has inspired your interest in this specialty?
I am very passionate about women’s health, so OB/GYN is a strong contender for me. I have seen firsthand the disparities that women, especially Black women, face when it comes to receiving adequate, respectful care. I want to be someone who changes that. I am also interested in internal medicine and open to exploring more during my clinical rotations. My heart is in primary care, and I know I will stay within a field that allows me to build long-term relationships with my patients and serve as a steady partner in their health journey.

Shelda St. Preux

Graduated: Class of 2028

Campus: Louisiana

Prior Schools: Florida State University, Florida Atlantic University

Degrees: BS in Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences, Clinical Professions, MS in Biomedical Science

Hometown: North Lauderdale, FL

Student

ACOOG Chapter at �鶹��ýӳ��-Louisiana named “Organization of the Year” by The Wellspring

ebailey — Thu, 05 Jun 2025 12:53:49 +0000

ACOOG Chapter at �鶹��ýӳ��-Louisiana named “Organization of the Year” by The Wellspring ebailey Thu, 06/05/2025 - 08:53

ACOOG Chapter at �鶹��ýӳ��-Louisiana named “Organization of the Year” by The Wellspring

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The American College of Osteopathic Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOOG) chapter at �鶹��ýӳ��-Louisiana has received a remarkable honor: The Wellspring’s “Organization of the Year” Award. This recognition celebrates the chapter’s outstanding volunteerism and ongoing commitment to supporting the Northeast Louisiana community.

Over the past year, the ACOOG chapter has worked closely with The Wellspring and its Family Justice Center, a vital local nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals facing homelessness, domestic and sexual violence, and other critical challenges. Together, they’ve created a powerful partnership rooted in compassion, action, and advocacy.

ACOOG members have donated their time and talents in impactful ways: organizing resource closets, painting playrooms and offices, assembling feminine hygiene kits, cleaning shelters, and hosting educational fairs focused on teen dating violence. Their hands-on service reflects a deep commitment to both medical education and community wellbeing.

Valerie Bowman, director of The Wellspring Domestic Violence Program and Family Justice Center of Ouachita Parish expressed, "We are incredibly thankful to the amazing volunteers with ACOOG who brought new life to our children’s playroom through painting and organizing, sorting countless donations with care, and leading multiple hygiene drives to support domestic violence families in need. Their compassion and commitment have made a lasting impact, creating a brighter, more supportive environment for every child and family who walks through our doors."

Partnering with a local organization that addresses domestic violence, sexual assault, and homelessness allows me to advocate for vulnerable populations while deepening my understanding of the social determinants of health, especially those relevant to women’s health. The ability to connect medical education with meaningful community service is a privilege. I feel it's important to purposefully contribute to the community, shaping me into a future physician.

Caroline Drell Extine , �鶹��ýӳ��-Louisiana Class of 2027, ACOOG President

This award not only highlights the chapter’s inspiring efforts but also reinforces �鶹��ýӳ��-Louisiana’s mission to develop compassionate, service-oriented physicians.