USF Health @USFHealth

What happens when one of the world’s biggest sporting events is played in extreme heat? USF Health sports medicine expert Dr. Eric Coris explains what extreme heat could mean for the World Cup, who is at greatest risk and what can be done to help protect players and fans. He also discusses how extreme heat impacts athletes and fans and what it means for staying safe during Florida’s summer heat. Read more: usf.edu/health/news/20…

Advancing the future of medicine starts by inspiring the next generation of scientists. Congratulations to Pine View School sophomore Yatharth Kakkad, who took home first place in Biomedical and Health Sciences at the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) for his innovative research exploring new mechanisms behind treatment-resistant lung cancer. Yatharth conducted part of his research under the guidance of Dr. Saulius Sumanas and his team at the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine, demonstrating how our faculty are helping cultivate curiosity, discovery and the future of biomedical innovation.

The future of health care is often inspired at home. This #FathersDay, we’re highlighting the story of Cole Kiser, a recent graduate of @USFHealthMed whose path to medicine and public service was shaped by his father, retired Air Force Col. Dale Kiser, a 20-year military dentist. Growing up, Cole saw firsthand what it meant to blend health care with service to others. Now a recent graduate, Cole is preparing to begin his career as a military physician, continuing that legacy of service for troops and their families. Read the full story of Cole Kiser and his journey into military medicine: usf.edu/health/news/20…

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After more than a decade of visionary leadership, Stephen Liggett is stepping down from his role as Senior Associate Vice President for Research for USF Health, leaving behind a legacy that helped transform our research enterprise. Under his leadership, USF Health research funding reached new heights, Research Day grew into one of the nation’s largest celebrations of scientific discovery, and a culture of collaboration and innovation flourished. While transitioning from this leadership role, Dr. Liggett will continue advancing science through his own laboratory research and mentorship. Thank you, Dr. Liggett, for your dedication to shaping the future of research at USF Health.

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The University of South Florida has appointed Janice C. Zgibor, PhD, as the new dean of the @USFTCOP. A pharmacist and epidemiologist, Zgibor has served at USF for more than a decade and brings more than 20 years of academic leadership experience to the role. “Dr. Zgibor brings a distinctive combination of pharmacy expertise, population health scholarship and proven academic leadership,” said Charles J. Lockwood, MD, MHCM, executive vice president of USF Health and dean of the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine. “Her deep knowledge of USF Health and the Taneja College of Pharmacy, together with her commitment to student success, research growth and faculty achievement, positions her perfectly to build on the college’s strong foundation and expand its impact across all its key mission areas.” Since March 2025, Zgibor has served as special advisor to the interim dean of the Taneja College of Pharmacy, working with faculty to strengthen academic programs and enhance student success, board exam preparation and career readiness. “The Taneja College of Pharmacy has a group of incredible faculty members who are deeply committed to the college, their students and their success,” Zgibor said. “I am excited to work alongside them to harness the college’s tremendous potential and build on its very strong foundations.” Congratulations to Dr. Zgibor on this honor and we cannot wait for you to welcome our students to the Taneja College of Pharmacy. Learn more: usf.edu/health/news/20…

Many women and newborns among Florida's 23.6 million residents have limited access to direct medical and obstetrical care, especially those living in rural communities. But a unique program at USF Health is working to change that reality. Thanks to a grant from the Florida Department of Health, faculty and simulation experts from the Florida Perinatal Quality Collaborative at the USF College of Public Health, CAMLS and the Florida Center for Emergency Medical Services are joining forces to bring high-fidelity obstetric emergency training to rural care teams across Florida. What began as a pilot in Apalachicola has grown into a statewide initiative reaching 16 rural counties, helping nurses, physicians and first responders prepare for obstetrical emergencies when every second counts. This work is helping strengthen emergency maternity care across Florida, ensuring healthcare teams have the training and confidence to support mothers and babies when it matters most. 🔗 Read the full story: usf.edu/health/news/20…

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This #AlzheimersandBrainAwarenessMonth, we are highlighting the work of Dr. Casey Cook, PhD, researcher at USF Health, who is working to better understand the complex mechanisms behind Alzheimer's disease. Inspired by her own family's experience with Alzheimer's, Dr. Cook studies specialized brain cells that may hold clues to protecting the brain and improving how nerve cells communicate. Every discovery brings us one step closer to better treatments, earlier detection and hope for the millions of individuals and families affected by Alzheimer's disease. Learn more about Dr. Cook's research: usf.edu/health/news/20…

“It's impossible to learn that which you think you already know.” — Epictetus This Stoic principle reflects a core truth in academic medicine: humility is where learning begins. In a field where medical knowledge and technology are constantly evolving, the most effective physicians remain lifelong learners — willing to question assumptions, embrace uncertainty and grow through challenge. Stoicism reminds us to focus on what we can control: our discipline, our mindset, and our commitment to continuous improvement. In the same way, academic medicine is built on lifelong learning across education, research, and clinical care. At USF Health, this mindset shapes how we prepare the next generation of physicians and scientists. Read more: usf.edu/health/deliver…

What began as pregnancy-related symptoms revealed a brain tumor at the base of the skull. A multidisciplinary team led by Dr. Siviero Agazzi, Professor, Vice Chairman and Fellowship Director at the USF Health Department of Neurosurgery and neurosurgeon at Tampa General Hospital, used a carefully staged approach, combining surgery and targeted radiation to treat the tumor while prioritizing both mother and baby. This reflects academic medicine in action, where expert teams and innovation come together to care for complex cases and improve outcomes for patients and families. Read full story: tampabay.com/news/health/20…

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During #AcademicMedicineWeek, we’re highlighting the academic difference. Dr. Christopher DuCoin, Vice Chair of Surgery and Chief of the Division of GI & General Surgery at USF Health, shares how being part of a teaching hospital in partnership with Tampa General Hospital creates something bigger than patient care alone. Through research, education and clinical care, every learner becomes a teacher, creating a ripple effect that expands access and strengthens public health far beyond our walls. By responding to our community’s needs, we make academic medicine possible and help shape better health care for all.

How concerned should the world be about the #Ebola outbreak in the #DRC? On June 10, experts from the DRC, @WHO, @AfricaCDC, & #GVN will discuss outbreak updates, regional spread risks, and global preparedness. Registration for media only: ow.ly/PKBB50Z7BMp

USF Health hosted the second annual Heart Institute Symposium, uniting researchers across all levels to share their work and learn from one another. Held at the USF Health Heart Institute, the day highlighted cutting-edge research and reinforced a collective commitment to advancing the future of cardiovascular care.

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In recognition of #MensHealthMonth, Dr. Rafael Carrion, Professor and Chair of the Department of Urology at USF Health Morsani College of Medicine, discusses the prostate gland and its impact on men’s health. This small but important gland becomes increasingly significant with age, influencing urinary function and, in some cases, the development of prostate cancer.

#FeelGoodFriday from this week at the COPH! It was great welcoming USF President Moez Limayem to the COPH. During his visit, he toured the college, met with student leaders and joined faculty and staff for an open forum filled with thoughtful questions and conversation.

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In recognition of Allergy and Immunology Month, we’re proud to expand Pediatric Allergy & Immunology services in Tampa, with providers now seeing patients at the Chalsty Pediatric Clinic at the John S. Curran, MD, Children’s Health Center. Monica Hajirawala, MD, Assistant Professor in the Department of Pediatrics, Allergy & Immunology, is expanding her clinical services to Tampa. Her interests include asthma, allergic and nonallergic rhinitis, drug allergy and venom allergy. We also recently welcomed Tyler Yates, MD, Assistant Professor in the Department of Pediatrics, Division of Allergy & Immunology. His focus includes primary immunodeficiency disorders and pediatric immunology. To schedule an appointment, call 727-828-6390 or visit: health.usf.edu/care/patient-r…

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What an incredible weekend at MyIBD Learning Tampa! 💜 We were proud to bring together patients, families, caregivers, healthcare professionals and community partners for two impactful educational programs. Special thanks to our outstanding speakers, session leaders, volunteers and community partners including the teams at @TGHCares, @CrohnsColitisFn @CAMLSTAMPA and @floridaaquarium for helping create such a memorable experience for our IBD community. Together, we are building a stronger and more supportive community for patients and families living with IBD. #MakingLifeBetter #MyIBDLearningTampa #USFHealth

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Today, we remember and honor the heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. This Memorial Day, we reflect on their legacy with gratitude and remembrance. 🇺🇸

This #WomensHealthMonth, we’re highlighting the connection between menopause and heart health in women, an often overlooked link. As estrogen levels decline during menopause, the risk for heart disease can increase over time, making awareness and prevention especially important. Learn more about the connection between women’s heart health and menopause on our Care Blog: usf.edu/health/patient…

Dr. Aishwarya Sriram, neuro-ophthalmologist at USF Health Department of Ophthalmology, recently helped lead a global neuro-ophthalmology training program at Instituto Mexicano de Oftalmología (IMO). The program brought together experts from around the world for a three-week virtual lecture series, followed by a hands-on week in Mexico. Experiences like this reflect USF Health’s commitment to making life better through global partnership, discovery and innovation in ophthalmology.

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The Morsani College of Medicine Physician Assistant Program has officially moved into their new home in downtown Tampa. The move reflects our commitment to training the next generation of compassionate, patient-centered physician assistants. Full story: bit.ly/4fy9M9Y