Throughout the academic year, scholars work relentlessly to elevate their learning and support their peers, mentors show up day after day ready to provide guidance to their mentees, and course directors engage scholars in labs and classrooms with dynamic training. This strong community is central to the success of programs at WashU Medicine, and it was with great joy that this excellence was recognized at the School of Medicine Joint Programs Commencement and Recognition Ceremony.
Last week, faculty, scholars, loved ones, and staff gathered in Eric P. Newman Education Center to commemorate the academic achievement of scholars in master’s programs across WashU Medicine. The scholars glowed with excitement as they stepped into the next chapter of their careers. Family and friends gathered around their beloved graduates with tender embraces and warm remarks. Faculty and staff proudly looked on at the graduating class, knowing they are prepared for what’s ahead.
The ceremony featured graduates from programs in Applied Health Behavior Research, Data Science and Biostatistics, Clinical Investigation, Genetic Counseling, Medical Physics, and Population Health Sciences. Sandro Galea, MD, DrPH, the Margaret C. Ryan Dean of the School of Public Health, delivered an uplifting keynote address prior to the conferral of degrees.
Recognizing the MSCI Graduates
At the WashU Medicine Clinical Research Training Center (CRTC), we are especially proud of graduates from our Master of Science in Clinical Investigation (MSCI). This robust program includes scholars dedicated solely to the MSCI as well as individuals in our Mentored Training Program in Clinical Investigation (MTPCI) and TL1 Predoctoral and Postdoctoral Clinical Research Programs. These graduates have completed training in the core competencies of clinical research and investigation, including study design, research implementation, scientific communication, and research ethics. Now they are prepared to pursue academic careers in clinical research to transform human health.
Spring 2026 Graduates (MSCI)
Omar Alomar
Lucas Cruz
Ling Huang
Mary Claire McGlynn
Stephanie Zhao
Spring 2026 Graduates (Certificate in Clinical Investigation)
Blake Sparkman
Summer 2026 Graduates (MSCI)
Veronica Guerra
Farrell Landwehr
James McMenimen
Safia Shaikh
Connor Sierra
Jake Rammell
Felicia Zhang
Honoring Clinical Investigation Award Recipients
Graduates weren’t the only ones honored at the ceremony. Prior to closing remarks, awards were presented to individuals who have gone above and beyond in cultivating a strong community. Students enrolled in Clinical Investigation coursework during the 2025-2026 academic year nominated candidates for Mentor of the Year and voted for Course Director of the Year and Scholars of the Year. This year’s recipients were noted as achieving academic excellence and displaying consistent engagement and thoughtfulness.
Mentor of the Year
Dominic Reeds, MD
Associate Director, MSCI
Course Director of the Year
Karen Dodson, MBA
Course Director for CLNV 5160 Grantsmanship and CLNV 5170 Scientific Writing and Publishing
Scholars of the Year
Kevin Baumgartner, MD
KL2 Scholar
Christopher Noda, MD
TL1 Trainee
David Russler-Germain, MD, PhD
K12 Oncology Scholar
Highlights from the Ceremony
We love our community and were delighted to celebrate the dedication and excellence of these individuals. Here are a few moments from the ceremony.
