National organization honors dermatology professor

The American Academy of Dermatology recently bestowed its highest honor on David Pariser, MD, Professor of Dermatology.

Dr. Pariser received the Gold Medal award for his lifelong contributions to dermatology.

A pillar of the EVMS residency program, Dr. Pariser has been devoted to educating the next generation of dermatologists. His practice was one of the pioneering groups that provided teaching and support for the program.

“This is a well-deserved award,” says Abby Van Voorhees, MD, Professor and Chair of Dermatology. “Dr. Pariser’s contributions to dermatology nationwide, as well as to EVMS, have been invaluable.”

The Gold Medal is awarded annually on a highly selective basis in recognition of outstanding and exceptional service to the specialty of dermatology in the science, teaching and practice of cutaneous medicine and surgery.

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Gates Millennium Scholar chooses EVMS

Environmental conservation has always been a passion for Maurica Bynum, MPH Class of 2018. As she approached her high-school graduation in 2012, she wasn’t sure exactly which road she would take, but learning she had been chosen as a Gates Millennium Scholar (GMS) gave her the confidence to pursue her dreams.

The GMS program, funded by a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, aims to promote academic excellence by providing thousands of outstanding students who have significant financial need the opportunity to reach their full potentials.

Ms. Bynum graduated from Virginia Wesleyan College in 2016 with a degree in Environmental Studies. As a Continuing Gates Scholar, she also was able to request funding for a Master of Public Health degree, with a concentration in Global Environmental Health, at EVMS. She hopes to pursue a PhD in the coming years, which the GMS program would also cover.

“I would like to become a researcher and college professor,” Ms. Bynum says. She also hopes to work in her family’s environmental consulting company. “My father stresses how important it is to conserve, preserve and protect the environment. He is always learning new things in the field, and it motivates me to learn, as well.”

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Chair of OB-GYN named President of national society

Alfred Abuhamad, MD, the Mason C. Andrews Chair in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Professor and Chair of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Vice Dean for Clinical Affairs, was recently named President of the Society for Maternal Fetal Medicine.

The society comprises physicians and scientists who are dedicated to the optimization of pregnancy and perinatal outcomes.

“I am humbled to serve in this role and look forward to guiding this great society in the upcoming year,” Dr. Abuhamad says. “I feel very privileged to work with such passionate members and dedicated staff toward an awesome mission.”

Dr. Abuhamad has served on the governing board for the past 10 years as a member of the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee.