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Cohort 6 Robert Smith, MD Scholars
Cohort 6 Robert Smith, MD Scholars

UMMC-GTEC celebrates graduation of Cohort 6 Robert Smith, MD, Scholars

The Jackson Heart Study Graduate Training and Education Center at the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC-GTEC) celebrated the graduation of Cohort 6 of the Robert Smith, MD, Scholars Program, marking another milestone in its mission to train the next generation of cardiovascular and health disparities researchers.

UMMC-GTEC is a two-year, evidence-based research training and mentoring program that prepares doctoral and health professional students from across Mississippi to become leaders in cardiovascular health sciences. Named in honor of Dr. Robert Smith, a pioneering civil rights physician and public health advocate, the program reflects his lifelong commitment to equity in care and opportunity.

Cohort 6 graduates include:

  • Dr. Hoda Ahmed (University of Mississippi, School of Pharmacy) – Her research explores the therapeutic potential of glycans in cancer, inflammation, and anticoagulation.

  • Gidarell Bryant, MS (UMMC, School of Medicine) – A future reconstructive plastic surgeon with a research focus on cleft lip, palate, and health care access disparities.

  • Assata-Senghora DeMyers, MS (UMMC, MD/PhD Program) – Passionate about genetics, pharmacology, and technology in medicine, she is preparing for a career as a physician-scientist.

  • Kerri Ivey, MSN, RN, CPHQ (UMMC, Population Health Science) – Focused on maternal health, health literacy, and policy integration in her doctoral research.

  • Quest Whalen, MS (UMMC, Data Science and Biostatistics) – Her dissertation addresses healthy aging and dementia through applied data science and biostatistics.

  • Kaylee Zettler (UMMC, School of Medicine) – Investigates the impact of social determinants of health on head and neck cancer outcomes.

Each scholar shared reflections on how the program’s mentorship, statistical training, and research experience shaped their academic growth and professional confidence.

As they continue on their respective paths in medicine, research, and academia, these scholars carry forward GTEC’s mission: to create a healthier Mississippi through meaningful, equity-driven research.