On Wednesday, April 29, 2026, the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences hosted its Annual Research Showcase, a massive display of academic inquiry featuring over 300 presenters virtual and in-person. Students from the Doctor of Health Sciences (DHSc) program distinguished themselves by securing several of the event's top rankings.
"Our DHSc students did an excellent job disseminating their original research," said Donal Murray, PhD, assistant professor. "Their success reflects the high level of scholarly endeavor they pursue throughout this program." The following students were recognized for their outstanding poster presentations, judged on their contributions to translational research and educational scholarship:
1st Place
TRANSLATIONAL RESEARCH - CLINICAL, COMMUNITY, & BASIC
- Cory Sessum
- Title: Operating Under Pressure: A National Survey of Burnout in Operating Room Nurses and Organizational Support
- Mentor: Lisa Paganotti, PhD, PA-C
2nd Place
TRANSLATIONAL RESEARCH - CLINICAL, COMMUNITY, & BASIC
- Heather Studwell
- Title: Association of Skeletal Muscle Mass and Endocrine Therapy Intolerance in Early-Stage HR+ Breast Cancer
- Mentor: Donal Murray, PhD
EDUCATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP
- Preethi Varghese-Joseph
- Title: “Sustaining Workplace Wellness Programs in Higher Education: A Qualitative Study of Facilitators and Barriers
- Mentor: Michelle Rumble, DNP, RN, MPH
Honorable Mentions
TRANSLATIONAL RESEARCH - CLINICAL, COMMUNITY, & BASIC
- Kelly Ritter
- Title: Exploring Beyond the Bench: Factors That May Influence Clinical Laboratory Professionals to Consider Leaving the Profession
- Mentor: Skip Gill, PhD
"These awardees exemplify the GW School of Medicine and Health Science's mission to deliver high quality care and create new knowledge," said Lisa Paganotti, PhD, PA-C, assistant professor.