What’s happening at Augusta University? March 14-20

This week includes: A walk to raise money in the fight against cancer, the College of Nursing dean is honored and a new option to protect immunocompromised patients against COVID-19.

Raising money for the Georgia Cancer Center

The annual Unite in the Fight Against Cancer walk will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 19 at the Bank of America Plaza located between the Medical College of Georgia and the College of Science and Mathematics on Augusta University’s Health Sciences Campus. The 1.5 mile walk will celebrate cancer survivors and those who have lost their lives to the disease.

“Everyone in our community has been touched by cancer in some way. This is why we believe in bringing people together for this annual walk and fundraiser,” said Dr. Jorge Cortes, director of the Georgia Cancer Center. Since 2018, the event has raised over $190,000 to support the Georgia Cancer Center.

College of Nursing dean nationally recognized

Augusta University College of Nursing Dean Tanya Sudia has been elected as a Distinguished Fellow of the National Academies of Practice. Sudia is recognized for her sustained contributions to interprofessional research, scholarship and leadership. Dr. Neil MacKinnon, provost and executive vice president of academic affairs, nominated Sudia for the honor.

“I am humbled by Provost MacKinnon’s nomination and honored to be inducted as a Distinguished Scholar Fellow,” Sudia said.

A new option for immunocompromised patients in the fight against COVID-19

Augusta University Health is offering patients who are severely immunocompromised a new preventative option in the fight against COVID-19. Evusheld is administered in two shots, one immediately after the other.

“Evusheld is an injection of monoclonal antibodies designed to provide protection against COVID-19 in patients that may not mount an adequate immune response from vaccination alone,” said Dr. Phillip Coule, chief medical officer and vice president of AU Health System.

Interview opportunities are available for these story ideas. Call 706-522-3023 to schedule an interview. Check out the Augusta University Expert Center to view our list of experts who can help with story ideas.