Dr. Ashley Shea | Change Management | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Ashley Shea | Change Management | Best Researcher Award

University of Alabama at Birmingham, United States

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Ashley Elizabeth (Janssen) Shea, MD, MPH, embarked on her academic journey with a Bachelor of Arts in Neuroscience and a minor in Global Health from Washington University in St. Louis. Her commitment to academic excellence was evident as she graduated with College Honors and earned membership in the prestigious Phi Beta Kappa honor society. With a strong foundation in neuroscience and global health, she pursued further education at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), obtaining a Doctor of Medicine with Distinction and a Master of Public Health (MPH) in Maternal & Child Health. Her time at UNMC was marked by multiple merit-based scholarships and leadership roles, setting the stage for her future contributions in maternal-fetal medicine.

Professional Endeavors & Clinical Training 👩‍⚕️

Dr. Shea undertook her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Utah, where she honed her clinical expertise and developed leadership skills. She excelled as Chief Resident in Administration and Scheduling, ensuring seamless departmental operations. During her residency, she also engaged in medical education, serving as a lecturer for various training programs and contributing to curriculum development. Currently, she is a Maternal-Fetal Medicine Fellow at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), with an anticipated completion in June 2025. Her fellowship further solidifies her specialization in managing high-risk pregnancies and advancing perinatal care.

Contributions to Research & Scholarly Activities 📚

Dr. Shea has made significant contributions to the field of obstetrics and maternal-fetal medicine through rigorous research and scholarly endeavors. Her research interests include postpartum hemorrhage management, fetal growth restriction, and the impact of oxytocin administration on maternal outcomes. She has presented multiple oral and poster presentations at national and international conferences, including the Society of Maternal-Fetal Medicine Annual Pregnancy Meeting and the Society for Reproductive Investigation Annual Meeting. Her work on maternal preconception platelet activation and pregnancy outcomes has provided valuable insights into optimizing maternal and neonatal health.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Shea’s dedication to excellence has been recognized through numerous awards and honors. She received the Society of Maternal-Fetal Medicine Residency Program Award for Excellence in 2021, acknowledging her outstanding performance in high-risk obstetrics. Her academic achievements at UNMC were also recognized with the AMWA Glasgow-Rubin Certificate of Commendation and induction into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society. Furthermore, she has received merit-based full and half-tuition scholarships, underscoring her academic prowess and dedication to the field.

Impact and Influence in Medical Education & Advocacy 📝

Beyond clinical and research contributions, Dr. Shea is deeply involved in medical education and advocacy. At UAB, she serves as an instructor for multiple obstetric workshops, including Shoulder Dystocia and Operative Vaginal Delivery. Her commitment to education extends to protocol development, as seen in her work on spontaneous preterm birth protocols. Additionally, she has been actively involved in community service, providing care at free clinics, participating in global health missions, and mentoring medical students through structured programs. Her leadership roles in organizations such as the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the American Women’s Medical Association further highlight her influence in shaping the future of women’s healthcare.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🌟

Dr. Shea’s career trajectory is poised for a lasting impact on maternal-fetal medicine. With a firm commitment to advancing perinatal care, she aims to continue her research on optimizing maternal health outcomes and reducing complications in high-risk pregnancies. Her future endeavors may include academic leadership, contributing to national healthcare policies, and mentoring the next generation of obstetricians. Through her unwavering dedication to research, education, and clinical excellence, Dr. Shea is set to leave a profound legacy in maternal and child health.

📝Notable Publications

  1. Association of postpartum oxytocin dose and postpartum bleeding outcomes in nulliparous patients at term

    • Journal: American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
    • Year: 2025
    • Authors: Ashley E. Shea, Candice L. Woolfolk, Alison G. Cahill, Methodius G. Tuuli, Alan T. Tita, Sindhu K. Srinivas, Aaron B. Caughey, George A. Macones, Akila Subramaniam

  2. Double duty: Successful management of a late second trimester severe burn

    • Journal: JEM Reports
    • Year: 2024
    • Authors: Mel Ebeling, Janet Julson, Emily W. Baird, Ashley Shea, Samantha Baker

Dr. Boris Arnaud Kouomogne Nteungue | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Boris Arnaud Kouomogne Nteungue | Innovative Leadership | Best Researcher Award

Central University of Nicaragua, Cameroon

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Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Boris Arnaud Kouomogne Nteungue’s academic journey began with an unwavering commitment to public health, which led him to pursue a Ph.D. in Public Health at the Central University of Nicaragua and Texila American University. Born in Cameroon and deeply aware of the health challenges his country faces, he directed his studies toward infectious disease prevention and control (IPC). His dedication to understanding the roots and repercussions of infectious diseases aligns with his objective to create meaningful change in public health. As a 34-year-old doctoral student, he has channeled his energy into research aimed at improving healthcare practices, policies, and outcomes, focusing particularly on infection prevention.

Professional Endeavors 🌍

Over the last decade, Boris’s professional path has been marked by influential roles and impactful initiatives. From 2021 to 2024, he served as an Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Expert with the World Health Organization in Cameroon, where he was instrumental in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. His work in the WHO included planning, implementing, and evaluating IPC strategies across various healthcare facilities, ensuring that healthcare workers were protected, and infectious spread was minimized. In addition, Boris held the critical role of General Coordinator of Nursing at Yaounde’s Emergency Center under the Ministry of Public Health in Cameroon. This role saw him oversee emergency nursing care, ensuring high standards and safe practices were adhered to during patient care. Through these experiences, Boris has become a recognized leader in public health and infection control, directly contributing to his community’s resilience in the face of health crises.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Boris has made significant strides in research, particularly within the field of Infection Prevention and Control (IPC). His recent publications reflect his dedication to studying health challenges in crisis situations, focusing on the IPC measures in place during the COVID-19 pandemic in Cameroon. His work not only evaluated existing strategies but also contributed actionable insights by identifying barriers to effective IPC and recommending improvements based on the World Health Organization’s guidelines. Furthermore, Boris has extended his research to include baseline assessments of IPC in healthcare settings, laying the groundwork for continued advancements in infection prevention protocols.

His studies aim to provide evidence-based approaches that healthcare facilities can adopt to maintain hygiene and prevent infection transmission. One of his notable contributions was an evaluation of Cameroon’s national IPC strategy through a socio-ecological lens. This research identified structural and procedural barriers, suggesting sustainable interventions for the Ministry of Health to consider in developing a stronger national IPC framework. His multi-faceted research approach includes primary healthcare, emergency care, and road traffic accident care—areas he believes are pivotal to advancing public health standards in Cameroon and beyond.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Boris’s commitment to IPC and public health has been recognized on multiple levels. He has had two manuscripts accepted for publication in the Infection Prevention in Practice Journal, a testament to his skill and dedication in research. Additionally, his consultancy projects have seen him collaborate with leading organizations, such as his role as a field researcher in a study on the efficacy of antivenom. This study, published in PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases, reflects his dedication to addressing high-impact health issues in Africa.

Beyond publications, Boris has served as a reviewer for prestigious journals, including the American Journal of Public Health. This role reflects his expertise in public health and research rigor, as well as his commitment to advancing the quality and relevance of global health literature. Boris is also an active member of prominent professional bodies, including the American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, the International Epidemiological Association, and the Cameroon Society of Epidemiology. These memberships further enhance his network, enabling him to share insights and learn from experts worldwide.

Impact and Influence 🌟

Boris’s research and advocacy work has had a far-reaching impact on public health practices, particularly in Cameroon. His research findings have informed policy and operational improvements within the healthcare system, specifically around IPC and emergency care. Through his role with the WHO, he actively trained healthcare workers, elevating IPC standards in response to COVID-19. These training initiatives empowered healthcare personnel to identify and address IPC shortcomings, thus enhancing the safety and effectiveness of healthcare services. His fieldwork and recommendations have laid the groundwork for sustainable public health strategies, contributing to better care outcomes in Cameroon.

In addition, his work on road safety, reflected in his publication on drinking and driving in Cameroon, highlights his dedication to preventive public health measures. This research has implications for traffic safety policies, aligning with his broader goal to improve healthcare and preventative care in all aspects of public life.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🏅

As Boris continues his academic and professional journey, he is committed to leaving a legacy of impactful research and transformative public health practices. His ongoing Ph.D. research, combined with his work as a WHO IPC expert, positions him to make lasting contributions to infection prevention strategies in healthcare settings. He envisions a healthcare system in Cameroon—and by extension, Africa—that is equipped with the knowledge, resources, and frameworks necessary to combat infectious diseases effectively. His research underscores the importance of sustainable IPC practices, a message he aims to reinforce through future publications, presentations, and policy recommendations.

Boris’s goal is not just to influence current practices but to foster a culture of prevention, training, and preparedness in public health systems. His continued contributions to IPC, emergency care, and public health will help build resilient healthcare infrastructures that can withstand future health crises. Through his dedication, Boris aims to empower a new generation of healthcare workers, ensuring that they are equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to protect communities and save lives.

📝Notable Publications

Title: Roadside surveys of drinking and driving in Cameroon

Authors: Y. Oyono, H. Gjerde, E. Acha Asongalem, B.A. Kouomogne Nteungue, …

Journal: Traffic Injury Prevention

Year: 2021

Title: Prevalence of alcohol among drivers, riders and pedestrians injured in road traffic crashes in Cameroon: a cross-sectional study

Authors: Y. Oyono, H. Gjerde, T. Kelley-Baker, E.A. Asongalem, …

Journal: International Journal of Injury Control and Safety Promotion

Year: 2022

 

Ms. Vuyelwa Zandile Peter | Change Management | Best Researcher Award

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Ms. Vuyelwa Zandile Peter | Change Management | Best Researcher Award

University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Ms. Vuyelwa Zandile Peter’s academic journey began with a strong foundation in speech and hearing sciences. She completed her undergraduate degree at the prestigious University of the Witwatersrand, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Speech and Hearing Therapy. This program equipped her with the critical knowledge and skills to address communication disorders, setting her on a path to contribute significantly to the field. Building on this, she pursued a Master’s degree in Communication Pathology (Audiology) at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN). During her graduate studies, Ms. Peter honed her expertise in audiological practices, especially concerning the diagnosis and management of hearing disorders in pediatric and adult populations.

Professional Endeavors and Contributions 👩‍⚕️

With a solid academic foundation, Ms. Peter entered the field of speech-language pathology and audiology, working at various public health facilities in Durban, South Africa. Her professional roles encompassed diagnosing and treating communication and swallowing disorders, specifically focusing on vulnerable populations such as children with HIV/AIDS and adults with neurological conditions.

In 2017, she transitioned into academia, joining the University of KwaZulu-Natal as a lecturer. Ms. Peter’s teaching career flourished, and she became a respected academic leader in her discipline. She notably became the first black female academic leader in speech-language pathology at UKZN, breaking barriers and serving as a role model for aspiring healthcare professionals from underrepresented communities.

Research Focus 🔬

Ms. Peter’s research interests are deeply rooted in the healthcare challenges of developing contexts, with a focus on communication disorders in children. She has a robust research portfolio that includes topics like early intervention (EI) for preschool-aged children, pediatric HIV/AIDS, and ototoxicity monitoring in children. These areas are critically important in South Africa, where healthcare systems often face challenges in addressing the complex needs of patients with communication and hearing disorders.

Key Research Areas:

  • Communication Disorder Screening Programs: Ms. Peter has led initiatives to establish screening programs aimed at identifying communication disorders in preschool-aged children. These programs are essential in detecting issues early, leading to better outcomes for children with communication challenges.
  • Pediatric HIV/AIDS and Communication Disorders: Her research into the audiological profiles of children with HIV/AIDS is groundbreaking. In a 2020 study, she co-authored a paper on the audiological profiles of school-aged children with HIV/AIDS receiving antiretroviral therapy, shedding light on the unique needs of this vulnerable population.
  • Tinnitus and Presbycusis: Ms. Peter has also conducted research on tinnitus and presbycusis (age-related hearing loss) in the elderly population within KwaZulu-Natal, exploring both audiologists’ counseling practices and patient perceptions.
  • Voice and Swallowing Disorders: In addition to her work with children, she has investigated voice and swallowing disorders in both pediatric and adult populations, contributing to the development of better diagnostic and treatment protocols.

Accolades and Recognition 🏅

Ms. Peter’s contributions to research and clinical practice have been widely recognized. Her work has been published in reputable academic journals, such as the South African Journal of Communication Disorders, where she has multiple publications addressing diverse issues in audiology and communication pathology. Notably, her 2020 article, “An Audiological Profile of a Cohort of School-Aged Children with HIV/AIDS”, has made a significant impact in the field of pediatric audiology.

Her role as the first black female academic leader in her field at UKZN is another major milestone, highlighting her leadership and dedication to advancing the profession. This position has allowed her to advocate for inclusive healthcare and educational practices, emphasizing the importance of diversity and representation in academia and clinical practice.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Ms. Peter’s work has a profound impact on the healthcare landscape in South Africa, especially in underserved communities. Her focus on early intervention and the voices of marginalized stakeholders in healthcare reflects her commitment to ensuring that healthcare services are not only accessible but also relevant to the people who need them most. She has shifted the conversation toward patient-centered care, ensuring that the perspectives of healthcare users—particularly those from marginalized backgrounds—are considered in the design and implementation of healthcare programs.

Her research in pediatric HIV/AIDS has provided essential insights into how communication disorders and hearing issues intersect with the management of chronic conditions like HIV. This is critical in shaping future public health policies and interventions that better serve children with complex healthcare needs.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

Looking ahead, Ms. Peter is poised to leave a lasting legacy in both clinical practice and academia. Her pioneering research and leadership have already laid the groundwork for future advancements in the field of communication disorders, particularly in developing countries where resources are often limited. She is passionate about continuing her work in early intervention, with the goal of ensuring that children with communication disorders receive the support they need to thrive.

As a PhD candidate at UKZN, Ms. Peter is currently exploring new ways to integrate the voices of marginalized communities into healthcare planning, which will likely lead to more inclusive healthcare policies and improved patient outcomes. Her future research promises to further bridge the gap between clinical knowledge and community needs, making her a key figure in the transformation of healthcare systems in South Africa and beyond.

With her commitment to equity, inclusion, and innovation, Ms. Peter’s future contributions will undoubtedly continue to shape the field of communication disorders, both in South Africa and internationally.

Notable Publications

 “Us versus Them”: is the voice of the community heard when planning communication screening programmes for preschoolers?

Authors: V.Z. Peter; P. Rea; M. Pillay; Y. Saman
Journal: Public Health
Year: 2024

 Audiological profile of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Authors: Sakhile Nkosi; Vuyelwa Peter; Jessica Paken
Journal: South African Journal of Communication Disorders
Year: 2024

 Audiologists’ presbycusis and associated tinnitus counselling practices within the KwaZulu-Natal province

Authors: Kerusha Bhojraj; Vuyelwa Z. Peter
Journal: South African Journal of Communication Disorders
Year: 2022

Patient’s perceptions of presbycusis and associated tinnitus counselling practices within the KwaZulu-Natal province

Authors: Kerusha Bhojraj; Vuyelwa Z. Peter
Journal: South African Journal of Communication Disorders
Year: 2022

 An audiological profile of a cohort of school-aged children with HIV and AIDS attending an antiretroviral clinic in South Africa

Authors: Vuyelwa Z. Peter; Jessica Paken; Lavanithum Joseph
Journal: South African Journal of Communication Disorders
Year: 2020

Dr. Geeta Sandeep Nadella | Enterprise Systems | Editorial Board Member

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Dr. Geeta Sandeep Nadella | Enterprise Systems | Editorial Board Member

University of the Cumberlands, United States 

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Early Academic Pursuits 📚

Dr. Geeta Sandeep Nadella’s academic journey began with a solid foundation in Biotechnology. She earned her BSc in Bio-Tech from Andhra University in 2007, followed by an MSc in Biotechnology from the University of Salford in 2010. Her early education provided a comprehensive understanding of biological sciences and set the stage for her future endeavors in the tech field. Driven by a desire to delve deeper into information security, Dr. Nadella pursued an MSc in Information Assurance from Wilmington University, graduating with a GPA of 3.89 in 2015. Her academic excellence continued as she earned a Ph.D. in Information Technology from the University of Cumberlands in 2023, where she maintained an impressive GPA of 3.95.

Professional Endeavors 🚀

Dr. Nadella’s professional career reflects her commitment to quality assurance and technology. Since 2015, she has been a Senior Quality Assurance Consultant at S2 IT Group, where she has been instrumental in driving quality delivery and implementing agile practices. Her work spans various industries, including Financial Services, Healthcare, and Telecommunication. Notable projects include leading data migration efforts for North Carolina’s court systems and managing a data-lake project for TransAmerica. Her expertise in database testing, web services, and automation platforms has been crucial in delivering high-quality solutions across diverse sectors.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Dr. Nadella’s research interests lie at the intersection of emerging technologies and quality assurance. She is a blockchain technology and RPA evangelist with a strong interest in Data Science, AI, ML, and Big Data Technologies. Her research has contributed significantly to the fields of AI and blockchain, focusing on developing quantitative models and innovative solutions for cybersecurity and data management. Dr. Nadella has shared her expertise through numerous publications and is actively involved in editorial and review boards for various academic journals, including IEEE and ACM.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Dr. Nadella’s contributions have been widely recognized in the academic and professional communities. She received the ISSN Award for International Outstanding Researcher in AI, ML, IoT, and Blockchain in June 2024. Additionally, she was honored as the Scientist of the Year 2024 by the International Achievements Research Center in Montreal, Canada, for her work in Engineering & Technology and Information Assurance. Her excellence in developing quantitative models for education system effectiveness earned her the Society of Universal Oneness’s Barbara Thiele Researcher of the Year Award for 2024.

Impact and Influence 🌍

Dr. Nadella’s impact extends beyond her research and professional accomplishments. Her work has significantly influenced the fields of quality assurance and emerging technologies, providing valuable insights and advancements. Her involvement in projects that drive modernization and enhance data security reflects her commitment to making meaningful contributions to her field. Through her leadership roles, publications, and active participation in professional organizations, Dr. Nadella has become a respected figure in the tech community, shaping the future of information technology and quality assurance.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🔮

As Dr. Nadella looks towards the future, her legacy is defined by her pioneering work in quality assurance and emerging technologies. Her ongoing research and contributions are poised to further advance the fields of AI, blockchain, and data science. Dr. Nadella’s dedication to innovation and excellence ensures that she will continue to influence and inspire the next generation of professionals and researchers. Her commitment to driving progress and improving technology standards underscores her lasting impact on the industry.

Dr. Geeta Sandeep Nadella’s career is a testament to her passion for technology and dedication to quality assurance. Her achievements and recognition reflect a remarkable journey of professional excellence and academic prowess.

Publications 

Understanding the Role of Social Influence on Consumer Trust in Adopting AI Tools

Authors: GS Nadella, SS Meduri, H Gonaygunta, S Podicheti

Journal: International Journal of Sustainable Development in Computing Science

Year: 2023

Enhancing Cybersecurity: The Development of a Flexible Deep Learning Model for Enhanced Anomaly Detection

Authors: H Gonaygunta, GS Nadella, PP Pawar, D Kumar

Journal/Conference: 2024 Systems and Information Engineering Design Symposium (SIEDS)

Pages: 79-84

Year: 2024

Quantum Machine Learning: Exploring Quantum Algorithms for Enhancing Deep Learning Models

Authors: H Gonaygunta, MH Maturi, GS Nadella, K Meduri, S Satish

Journal: International Journal of Advanced Engineering Research and Science

Year: 2024

A Systematic Literature Review of Advancements, Challenges and Future Directions of AI And ML in Healthcare

Authors: GS Nadella, S Satish, K Meduri, SS Meduri

Journal: International Journal of Machine Learning for Sustainable Development

Year: 2023

Examining the Indirect Impact of Information and System Quality on the Overall Educators’ Use of E-Learning Tools: A PLS-SEM Analysis

Authors: GS Nadella, SEVS Pillai

Conference: IEEE SoutheastCon 2024

Year: 2024