In the News
Linda Grinnell-Merrick, a rheumatology nurse practitioner in the Division, was quite active at the conference. She served as a panelist as well as a speaker co-presenting "60 Minute Innovation Firehouse." Ms. Grinnell-Merrick also began her tenure as president of the RNS. Dr. Ritchlin, whose research is primarily centered on psoriatic arthritis, presented a lecture on "Rare Diseases in Rheumatology" at the conference.
AIR Researchers Characterize the Role of Neutrophils in a Mouse Model of Lupus
University of Rochester Medical Center researchers have demonstrated that not all effects of neutrophils in autoimmunity are deleterious. Jennifer Anolik, M.D., Ph.D., along with AIR researchers Javier Rangel-Moreno, Ph.D. and Nida Meednu, Ph.D. have demonstrated that neutrophils can have a protective effect in murine (mouse) lupus. Dr. Anolik and colleagues have shown that timing and location are key in dictating what effect neutrophils will have. Their findings have recently been published in The Journal of Immunology.
Mariel Bank, BSN, RN and Jennifer Ganz BSN, RN Create Quick-Flip Guide
AIR infusion nurses, Mariel Bank and Jennifer Ganz, created a Quick-Flip Guide for infusion nurses in the ambulatory setting throughout URMC. Read more about their innovative project patient care project (may require log-in).
Allen Anandarajah, M.D., MSc Awarded Grant to Improve Health Care for Lupus Patients
Dr. Allen Anandarajah was awarded a grant from the GRHF for his project to improve care for patients with SLE in the Rochester area who are at high risk for hospital admission. The goals of the project are to improve access to care and adherence to medication use, identify and modify behavioral and social impediments to on-going care and to provide an increased awareness of lupus in patients and the community.
Jennifer Anolik, M.D., Ph.D. to Share the Secret of Her Success
Dr. Jennifer Anolik will join 12 other Rochester women as they share the secrets of their success on Wednesday evening, May 17th. For more information, see the attached flyer.
Linda Grinnell-Merrick, NP to become President of the Rheumatology Nurses Society
Linda Grinnell-Merrick, NP joined the AIR Division in 2012 where she sees adult rheumatology patients. Ms. Grinnell-Merrick is passionate about nursing education and the impact that empowering nurses has on positive patient outcomes. In August of this year, she will become President of the Rheumatology Nurses Society. Listen to Ms. Grinnell-Merrick talk about her experience.
Christopher Ritchlin, M.D., MPH, Co-Authors Article to Help Doctors Diagnose and Treat Psoriatic Arthritis
Read about the article written by Dr. Christopher Ritchlin and two other psoriatic arthritis experts on the diagnosis and treatment of psoriatic arthritis.
Drs. Jessica Stern and Christopher Palma Have Recently Joined the AIR Faculty and are Accepting New Patients
Jessica Stern, M.D. is currently accepting new allergy patients. To make an appointment, please call (585) 486-0930. Christopher Palma, M.D., Sc.M. is currently accepting new rheumatology patients. To make an appointment, please call (585) 486-0901.
Dr. Jennifer Anolik Presents Second Opinion 5 on the Symptoms of Lupus
The December 28th episode of Second Opinion focused on the chronic autoimmune disease systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus). Jennifer Anolik, M.D., Ph.D. was a featured panelist presenting the Second Opinion 5 segment, which outlined five common symptoms of lupus. View the episode.
AIR Research Presented at ACR National Meeting
The AIR Division was well represented at the American College of Rheumatology’s national meeting in Washington, DC November 11-16, 2016. This meeting highlights the most current research findings as they relate to Rheumatology. Six faculty members and one fellow had a total of 10 presentations which included posters, panel discussions, meet the professor sessions, and oral presentations. Christopher Ritchlin, M.D., MPH served as a moderator for sessions centering on psoriatic arthritis and spondyloarthropathies.
10th Annual Lupus Education Day Held
October 15, 2016
This year's event was held on October 15th and featured Dr. Richard Furie, Chief of Rheumatology at North Shore-Long Island Jewish Health System, an internationally recognized expert in lupus clinical trials. View the presentation from this event on our patient education events listing.
You can also watch Dr. Jennifer Anolik, director of the Lupus Clinic at UR Medicine, discuss lupus and this year's Lupus Education Day in an interview with WHEC-TV.
Make a Gift to the Lupus Education Day / Research Fund
Congratulations to Our Strong Stars
Strong Stars are employees who go out of their way to make a difference in the lives of patients, families and visitors.
September 2017
Cristy Bell was recognized by a co-worker for a can-do attitude. Cristy jumped right in and helped with a significant last minute request that provided data in time for a grant submission. Congratulations Cristy!
Rachel Climer was recognized by a co-worker for being an AIR “Rock Star.” Rachel always has a positive attitude and is willing to lend a hand. Her co-worker was able to go on vacation without worrying about their tasks being taken care of while they were gone. Congratulations Rachel!
Alyssa Powell was recognized by an appreciative patient for being very welcoming and helpful throughout the entire clinic visit. Congratulations, Alyssa!
August 2017
Cristy Bell was recognized by a co-worker for her exceptional efforts in the Division’s clinical studies. Congratulations, Cristy!
Maria Allen was recognized by a co-worker for helping to make a patient’s experience much more positive by staying to lend a hand. Congratulations, Maria!
Allison Hendershot was recognized by a co-worker for helping to make a patient’s experience much more positive by staying to lend a hand. Congratulations, Allison!
Kelly Callahan was recognized by a co-worker for going above and beyond as she transitions to her new position. Kelly has been helping her old team transition for her departure while preparing for her new position, Her extra efforts are extremely appreciated. Congratulations, Kelly!
Linda Grinnell-Merrick was recognized by a co-worker for continuing to go above and beyond. Linda has consistently shown dedication to her nursing staff by being a continuous resource to all. Even if she has an extremely busy schedule, Linda will take the time to address concerns and general questions that the nurses have. She has taken the time (both inside and outside of work) to educate the new nursing staff and to grow the knowledge of the nurses that have been here. Her dedication shows and the nurses appreciate it. Congratulations Linda!
Jennifer Goff was recognized by a co-worker for going above and beyond. She has been a great asset to our team since recently starting. Jennifer is a great communicator and takes the time to understand the needs in the clinic. Congratulations Jennifer!
Lisa Hand was recognized by an appreciative patient for always smiling and being friendly and making coming for allergy shots a pleasure. Congratulations Lisa!
July 2017
Alyssa Powell was recognized by a co-worker for going above and beyond to accommodate the needs of a patient. Congratulations, Alyssa!
Lisa Hand was recognized by an appreciative patient for her cheerfulness and efficiency. Congratulations, Lisa!
June 2017
Alana Dodgson was recognized by an appreciative patient for being very helpful, understanding and a very sweet person. Congratulations Alana!
Laurie Heelon was recognized by an appreciative patient for being so professional and helpful. She was so wonderful in obtaining the proper care for me. I am so appreciative to have such a caring person on my team and ever so friendly! Congratulations Laurie!
Colleen Ranke was recognized by an appreciative patient for being very kind and helpful. She was concerned that I received the proper care. Congratulations Colleen!
May 2017
Lindsey Junge was recognized by a co-worker for having a constantly positive attitude. She is willing to provide assistance to anyone that needs it and regularly goes out of her way lend a helpful hand making everyone's day a brighter. Her excitement about her work is contagious and helps set a positive tone in the office. Congratulations, Lindsey!
Christine Stallworth was recognized by one of the providers for being an incredible master scheduler. Her efforts have led to improvements in workflow and customer service. Congratulations, Christine!
Nurse practitioner Linda Grinnell-Merrick was recognized by an appreciative patient for being very compassionate. Congratulations Linda!
Nurse practitioner Linda Grinnell-Merrick was recognized by an appreciative patient for providing excellent patient education. Congratulations Linda!
Holly Vibber was recognized by an appreciative patient through a co-worker for providing genuine care and always being pleasant and professional. Congratulations Holly!
Christine Stallworth was recognized by a co-worker. Christi recently took on allergy scheduling and is doing a great job. Congratulations, Christie!
Dr. Jessica Stern was recognized by an appreciative mother for providing compassionate and excellent care to her baby. Congratulations, Dr. Stern!
Brianne Schmidt was recognized by an appreciative mother for providing compassionate and excellent care to her baby. Congratulations, Brianne!
Joshua Moody was recognized by a co-worker for stepping up and doing an amazing job when a co-worker was on maternity leave. Congratulations, Josh!
Nicole Boone was recognized by a co-worker for stepping up and doing an amazing job when a co-worker was on maternity leave. Congratulations, Nikki!
Caitlyn French was recognized by a co-worker for being a great leader and arrange a great leadership retreat for the division. Congratulations, Kate!
Dr. Andreea Coca was recognized by a co-worker for her help with a patient’s medication struggles. Congratulations, Dr. Coca!
Dr. Darren Tabechian was recognized by an appreciative patient foe being an invaluable support for their health and well-being. Congratulations, Dr. Tabechian!
Susan Hume was recognized by a co-worker for sharing her allergy expertise at an in-service. Congratulations, Susan!
April 2017
Cristy Bell was recognized by a co-worker for being a real team player. Congratulation,s Cristy!
Allison Hendershot was recognized by a co-worker for being a real team player. Congratulations, Allison!
Maria Allen was recognized by a co-worker for being a real team player. Congratulations, Maria!
Debbie Campbell was recognized by a co-worker for being a real team player. Congratulations, Debbie!
Brianna Corbitt was recognized by a co-worker for being a real team player. Congratulations, Brianna!
Dr. Christopher Ritchlin was recognized by an appreciative patient for being a truly wonderful doctor. Dr. Ritchlin was described as being kind and patient. Dr. Ritchlin helped the patient get a motorized wheelchair that they needed. The patient commented that Dr. Ritchlin makes unpleasant news not so unpleasant and reassures them when they need it. Congratulations, Dr. Ritchlin!
Lindsey Junge was recognized by a co-worker for going above and beyond for our community. Lindsey’s dedication and enthusiasm led to the success of the AIR 10th Annual Lupus Education Day Event, including a special Grand Rounds event with a guest speaker. Congratulations, Lindsey!
Nicole Boone was recognized by a co-worker for going above and beyond for our community. Lindsey’s dedication and enthusiasm led to the success of the AIR 10th Annual Lupus Education Day Event including a special Grand Rounds event with a guest speaker. Congratulations, Nicole!
Dr. Ummara Shah was recognized by an appreciative patient for leaving no stone unturned while diagnosing her arthritis. She was also complimented on being empathetic, an excellent listener, efficient and kind. This grateful patient commented that “Strong is very lucky to have her as an MD.” Congratulations, Dr. Shah!
Carol Giglia was recognized by a co-worker for coming in on her day off to participate in a team meeting. Her experience, expertise and input was greatly valued and appreciated. Congratulations, Carol!
Anne Saless was recognized by a co-worker for coming in on her day off to participate in a team meeting. Her experience, expertise and input was greatly valued and appreciated. Congratulations, Anne!
March 2017
Rachael Emerson was recognized by an appreciative patient for being patient, caring and compassionate turning a stressful visit into a positive experience. Congratulations Rachael!
Patricia Baldwin was recognized by an appreciative patient for being patient, caring and compassionate turning a stressful visit into a positive experience. Congratulations Patricia!
Mariel Bank was recognized by an appreciative patient for being patient, caring and compassionate turning a stressful visit into a positive experience. Congratulations Mariel!
Laurie Heelon was recognized by an appreciative patient for being patient, caring and compassionate turning a stressful visit into a positive experience. Congratulations Laurie!
Laurie Heelon was recognized by one of the rheumatologists for being a key person in the office who continually ensures that patients receive care that is timely and high quality. She works daily to schedule patients promptly, address their needs for more immediate appointments and works extremely hard. Congratulations Laurie!
Brianna Corbitt was recognized by a co-worker for taking the time to teach her about a search function in eRecords which was very helpful. Congratulations Brianna!
Kelly Callahan was recognized by a co-worker for exemplifying team spirit. Kelly stepped up and helped a coordinator off-site with an urgent patient issue despite being extremely busy herself. Congratulations, Kelly!
Alyssa Powell was recognized by a co-worker on behalf of an appreciative patient for "always [being] so polite and always [having] a smile!" This made the patient feel important and well cared for. Congratulations, Alyssa!
January 2017
Dr. Maria Slack was recognized by a co-worker for being a team player and for always being willing to provide the nurses with information that expands their knowledge base. Congratulations, Dr. Slack!
Laurie Heelon was recognized by a co-worker for being a source of strength in the Division. Her kindness and compassion which she displays all the time and with everyone she comes in contact with are a wonderful example of ICare values. Congratulations, Laurie!
Dr. Ummara Shah was recognized by an appreciative patient for being kind, empathetic and spending quality time with her patients. Dr. Shah was also complimented on her thoroughness and bedside manner. Congratulations, Dr. Shah!
Alana Dodgson was recognized by a co-worker for her dedication and professionalism, even when the office was short-staffed, and for displaying the ICare values with everyone with whom she is contact. Congratulations, Alana!
LoraLynn Poles-Harrison was recognized by a co-worker worker for her dedication and professionalism, even when the office was short-staffed, and for displaying the ICare values with everyone with whom she is contact. Congratulations, LoraLynn!
Corrine Culver was recognized by a co-worker worker for her dedication and professionalism, even when the office was short-staffed, and for displaying the ICare values with everyone with whom she is contact. Congratulations, Corky!
Alyssa Powell was recognized by a co-worker on behalf of an appreciative patient who commented that Alyssa made them feel comfortable and important. The patient also complimented Alyssa on how respectful and pleasant she was. Congratulations, Alyssa!
Dr. Maria Slack was recognized by a co-worker on behalf of an appreciative patient who commented that "Dr. Slack ALWAYS follows through with every plan and discussion, and she does her work with respect, kindness, compassion, and empathy! Her care and approach are valued and respected and truly unprecedented!” Congratulations, Dr. Slack!
Nancy Malik was recognized by a co-worker for being a source of strength and continuity for the department. Her dedication and professionalism have helped keep things running, even when the office was short staffed. She displays the ICare values all the time, with everyone she is in contact with. Congratulations, Nancy!