On May 16, 2026, the George Washington University (GW) community gathered at Lisner Auditorium to celebrate the graduation of 27 students from the Doctor of Health Sciences (DHSc) in Leadership in Clinical Practice and Education program. The ceremony highlighted a cohort dedicated to bridging the gap between clinical excellence and innovative leadership.
Five exceptional DHSc graduates were inducted into the Alpha Eta National Scholastic Honor Society for the Allied Health Professions. These individuals were recognized for their significant academic achievements (pictured from left to right):
- Dr. Lauren Gaddis
- Dr. Jacklyn Petlicki
- Dr. Margaret Schifano
- Dr. Cory Sessum
- Dr. Preethi Varghese-Joseph
Dr. Jacklyn M. Petlicki received the prestigious Ozgur Ekmekci Interprofessional Leadership Award, presented by Dr. Karen S. Schlumpf. Named in honor of the late Dr. Ekmekci, the award recognizes those who champion collaboration across health disciplines.
Dr. Petlicki, an administrator at a University of Michigan infertility clinic, was lauded for her doctoral research on communication and support strategies for patients experiencing pregnancy loss. Her advisor, Dr. Skip Gill, noted her unique ability to “bring out the best in everyone,” highlighting her role as a supportive peer and a dedicated advocate for interprofessional scholarship.
Dr. Cory Sessum was honored with the Health Sciences Outstanding Graduate Student Award for his blend of clinical expertise and technological innovation. Since entering the program in 2023, Dr. Sessum has made waves in the industry by implementing one of the world’s first artificial intelligence platforms for intraoperative lung cancer detection, exploring the critical issue of nurse burnout and organizational support in the operating room, and serving on a committee for the American College of Healthcare Executives to mentor undergraduate and graduate students in healthcare leadership.
“Dr. Sessum exemplifies a leader who seeks feedback for continuous improvement and consistently applies course concepts to drive scalable improvements in healthcare,” said Lisa Paganotti, PhD, PA-C, assistant professor.
In a moving address to the graduates, Dr. Sessum reflected on his journey from a small town in Texas to the nation’s capital. He challenged his fellow graduates to move past the pursuit of wealth or status and focus on empathy, equity, and evidence-based progress.
“We have seen a downward shift in the utilization of evidence-based research to drive change,” Sessum remarked. “We must return to putting science first. We must lead with integrity, and we must never lose sight of who we are here to serve.”
The celebration concluded with a powerful moment of unity as Dr. Jacklyn M. Petlicki led the Class of 2026 in the Recitation of the School of Medicine & Health Sciences Pledge, marking their official transition from students to the future leaders of the global healthcare system.
View the digital graduation program, here: 2026 Health Sciences Graduation Celebration or watch the 2026 Health Sciences - GW SMHS Celebration on YouTube.