The Journey

SOM Welcomes the Class of 2030!

Welcome to the UMMC School of Medicine Class of 2030. Our class size has grown again this year as we continue to work to address the physician shortage in Mississippi. Dr. Demondes Haynes gives more detail on the M1 class demographics.

A Commitment to Career Development and Professional Growth

At the School of Medicine, we believe career development is not a single event but a continuous journey. From the first day of medical school through residency placement, students are supported by a comprehensive Academic and Career Development Roadmap designed to help them explore opportunities, develop meaningful mentor relationships and prepare for successful careers in medicine. Dr. Michael McMullan gives more insight into the career development series.

Rowland Medical Library Spotlight: Find it faster with A-Z Databases

Rowland Medical Library provides faculty, students and residents with access to more than 130 databases, digital tools and information resources. These resources can be found on the library’s website at "A-Z Databases." Dr. Sarah Adcock explains the categories of information resources.

Preclinical Curriculum Inventory Now Available to All Faculty

We are pleased to announce that all School of Medicine faculty members now have access to the Preclinical Curriculum Inventory. This interactive resource provides a convenient way to explore the content currently taught across the preclinical curriculum and identify where topics, concepts and objectives appear across courses. Dr. David Norris gives more information and instruction on how to access this portal.

OME Spotlight: Heather Bartlett

Heather Bartlett joined the School of Medicine as an academic advisor in July 2026. She earned a Doctor of Education in educational leadership and Master of Science in psychology from Capella University, a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from the State University of New York at Oswego and holds several professional certifications in coaching, career development and personality assessment.

OME Spotlight: DeShundra Barnes

DeShundra Barnes joined the Office of Medical Education on July 20, 2026, as a project manager. A native of Jackson, Mississippi, she earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from Mississippi State University and a Master of Health Sciences from the University of Mississippi Medical Center. She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Education in higher education administration at the University of Southern Mississippi.

Upcoming SOM Faculty Development Sessions

The School of Medicine (SOM) and the Department of Advanced Medical Education have collaborated again this year to develop the 2026 SOM Annual Faculty Development Series. This series provides one-hour sessions throughout the year on topics that aim to enhance teaching and learning, and the academic environment. These virtual sessions are held at noon and highlight the expertise and research of SOM faculty as well as faculty from other institutions. Select presentations will offer an in-person version.

July 2026