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Health and Human Services News

MCHHS graduate gets ready to do big things

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Abby Grisham is eagerly awaiting her graduation from Missouri State University this fall. 

Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in exercise and movement science, she reflects on her enriching experiences on campus and is excited about her upcoming role as an exercise physiologist at Saint Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri. 

Grisham’s involvement on campus 

Grisham has been actively involved in various campus organizations, especially the Pre-PA Society and the Exercise Science Society.  

She’s grateful for the positive influence these groups had on her and the supportive networks they provided during her time as a student. 

Cherished academic moments 

In her academic journey, Grisham expresses admiration for professors like Dr. Stacy Goddard and Dr. Ryan Gordon.  

“I’m excited for my future endeavors, but the support and care from professors like Dr. Goddard and Dr. Gordon have been so valuable, not just academically, but personally too,” Grisham said. 

Grisham notes that their influence has been pivotal in shaping her career aspirations and even inspired her to contemplate pursuing a master’s in exercise physiology. 

Classes like KIN569 (health appraisal and exercise testing techniques) and KIN465 (exercise prescription: strength and conditioning) impacted her profoundly. These courses not only fueled her passion for the field, but also directly prepared her for her new job at Saint Luke’s Hospital. 

Stepping into the professional realm 

Grisham who’s from Urbana, Missouri is thrilled to be joining the St. Luke’s team.  

Some of her responsibilities in the cardiovascular imaging lab will include helping with stress testing, EKG (electrocardiogram) interpretation and echo procedures.  

Grisham attributes her confidence during the interview process to the extensive preparation she received from her professors. 

Missouri State’s impact 

Expressing a deep attachment to MSU, she credits the institution for providing essential resources, supportive faculty and fostering lasting friendships.  

While she looks forward to the next phase of her journey, she’ll miss her friends, professors and the vibrant atmosphere at Missouri State. 

Although saying goodbye is bittersweet, she remains grateful for the personal and professional growth that MSU provided. 

“I love Missouri State and I’m really sad to leave,” Grisham said. “I feel like I’ve grown so much here, both as a person and a health care provider.” 

Learn more about exercise and movement science  

Audiology professor elected for American Academy of Audiology board

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Congratulations to Dr. Wafaa Kaf, professor of audiology in the department of communication sciences and disorders at Missouri State University.

Kaf was recently elected to serve as a member-at-large on the 2023-24 Academy Board of Directors for the prestigious American Academy of Audiology (AAA) for a three-year term. Previously, she was appointed to serve as the program chair for the 2022 AAA Conference.

Dr. Wafaa Kaf headshot

Her goal is to advance the audiology profession nationally and internationally through interprofessional collaboration, education, academic service, mentorship and scholarship.

Kaf went through an extensive five-step selection process:

  1. Members of the AAA organization nominated her to submit an application and serve on their board of directors.
  2. After accepting the nomination, she completed a comprehensive application for her vision, objectives and qualities as a leader.
  3. The nomination committee reviewed all submitted applications and made a selection of the final seven nominees to be written on the ballot for election.
  4. Since Kaf was selected to be on the ballot, she also provided a biography and a two-minute recorded speech so voters could get to know her better before the final election.
  5. She was elected alongside two more finalists to serve on the board.

Kaf looks forward to creating real change in the audiology community.

“I’m a hard worker who takes initiative and is eager to take on new challenges,” Kaf said. “I also have a strong desire to serve others, which has been evidenced by my past work in the community.

“Additionally, my cultural background and experience in diversity, equity and inclusion will allow me to help further promote this effort within the audiology community.”

Learn more about the Doctor of Audiology program

Innovative research

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The McQueary College of Health and Human Services hosted the 27th Annual Student Research Symposium on April 27th, 2023.  

It was an exciting time for students and faculty mentors to showcase their scholarly work.  

There were 76 research posters and 1 student organization spotlight presented by students from both undergraduate and graduate programs across the college. Eight of the 11 departments and schools were represented. 

“Thanks to the rest of the MCHHS Student Research Symposium committee, staff, and volunteers for their dedication and hard work planning for the 2023 Research Symposium. It was a wonderful symposium that had engaging poster presentations, great conversations, energy, and of course, we cannot forget all of the delicious refreshments and desserts provided,” said Dr. Wafaa Kaf, professor of audiology. 

“I can attest to the significance of the experience that students gain in both their personal and professional lives by presenting. I was happy to witness future potential scholars in the making from various fields of study. Students, make sure you save the date for the 2024 Research Symposium!” 

Advocating for social workers

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The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Missouri Chapter recently appointed Missouri State University social work graduate student Jess Harman to its board of directors.

Harman, who’s from Topeka, Kansas, will join the board as its Master of Social Work Student Chair member. Her appointment begins July 1, 2023.

“There’s only one position available for the entire state of Missouri,” Harman said. “In the field of social work, it’s a notable position to hold.”

About the NASW Missouri Chapter

The chapter was founded in 1975 and is currently the largest professional association of social workers in the state, with over 1,400 members.

The nonprofit professional membership organization is specifically for degreed social workers and students matriculating through Council of Social Work Education (CSWE) accredited schools who collaborate to fulfill the National Association of Social Workers’ National Board’s mission at the local level.