September 2025

A Farewell and Congratulations to Judith Kosasih, MD on her Retirement!

On August 31, 2025, Dr. Judith Kosasih officially retired after many years of dedicated service as the Section Chief of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Her leadership, expertise, and unwavering commitment have left a lasting impact on the department and the countless patients and colleagues she has inspired throughout her career.

Dr. Judith Kosasih has been a lifelong member of the MCW community, having spent a collective 41 years at MCW during training and beyond. While on faculty at MCW, Dr. Kosasih has devoted her time to the care of Veterans at the Clement J. Zablocki VA. Serving at the section chief for PM&R at the VA, Dr. Kosasih has been an integral leader at the VA for rehabilitation advancements for both inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation programs. In addition to service as Section Chief, Dr. Kosasih has led amputee care and polytrauma care as a part of her clinical practice. In addition to her clinical care at the VA, Dr. Kosasih has helped advance the missions of MCW throughout her career. In education, she has mentored and trained numerous students and residents.  She has also been intimately involved with MCWs department of Global Health, having helped lead the department's global health efforts and previously our Italy Integrative Medicine rotation. We wish Dr. Kosasih the best as she tackles retirement with the same veracity she has tackled any challenge throughout her storied career. Thank you, Dr. Kosasih!  

Please Welcome Haley Willarson, MD 

Please join us in giving a warm welcome to Haley Willarson, MD, Assistant Professor in the Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation who started with us in July. This past year Dr. Willarson completed her Spinal Cord Injury fellowship at MCW. Before that, she was a resident at Northwestern Medicine Marianjoy in IL, where she also had the opportunity to serve as chief resident. Prior to that, she did her preliminary IM internship here at MCW! Now that her journey has come full-circle, Dr. Willarson is very excited to hit the ground running as a new faculty member. In her spare time, Dr. Willarson enjoys gardening, movie marathons, and spending time with her husband, Jesse, and son, Emmett.

Please Welcome Colton Sauer, MD

Please join me in giving a warm welcome to Colton Sauer, MD, Assistant Professor in the Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. Dr. Sauer is originally from Colorado, where he was raised and completed all his education. He graduated from Colorado School of Mines with a degree in Mechanical Engineering and completed medical school at University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. He travelled to central Pennsylvania for a Pediatric intern year at Geisinger Medical Center, followed by PM&R residency at MCW graduating in 2024. He completed his SCI Fellowship at MCW in 2025. He will be caring for both adults and children with disabilities at MCW/Children’s Wisconsin. He is staying in Milwaukee with his wife Ana, a general pediatrician (and previous Children’s Wisconsin chief resident!), their cat Tuxy, and their son, Maximiliano. In his free time, he likes to try to keep his infant son from getting into everything he’s not supposed to, learning Spanish, building computers, and riding his bicycle. Dr. Sauer and Ana are very excited to be staying on as faculty and raising their son in the Milwaukee area!

Meghann Sytsma's Future Plans

Our former research team member, Meghann Sytsma, has transitioned to the Department of Anesthesiology, where she has assumed the role of Research Operations Manager. We will greatly miss her warm presence and wish her all the best in this exciting new chapter!

Kari Winder's Future Plans

Kari Winder began the new year as our Education Program Coordinator II, overseeing student rotations and fellowships. Kari has been an absolute pleasure to work with, and while we will greatly miss her presence in our department, we are delighted that she has secured her dream opportunity to relocate to Nevada with her husband and their dog, Hercules. We wish Kari all the best in this exciting new chapter of her career and life! 

AAPM&R Alumni Reception

Please RSVP if you are going to the AAPM&R Assembly in Salt Lake City and want to attend the Alumni Reception by sending an email to Monika Szczerba - mszczerba@mcw.edu

Department Administrator Jason Mattern Takes on Additional Role as Executive Director, Multi-Specialty Department as of July 1st, 2025

"I want to take this moment to thank Jason for being willing to step into this important role as MCW continues to restructure a variety of leadership roles. 

Conversations have been ongoing regarding these restructures- conversations Jason and I have been involved in from the beginning. 

I firmly believe this is good for our colleagues who practice at Pain and Spine as well as our PM&R Department.  As Jason mentioned, he remains an integral part of the MCW Department of PM&R and will continue in the capacity all of us have been familiar.  

Congratulations Jason!  This new role speaks volumes to confidence practice leadership has in your abilities! "

Christopher L. White, MD  

Associate Professor and Chair 

Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation 

Medical Director, Froedtert Bluemound Rehabilitation Hospital   

Diane Braza, MD Recieves MCW Distinguished Service Award

Diane Braza, MD was recently honored with the Distinguished Service Award (DSA)  - MCW's highest honor. This prestigious award is presented annually to a current or former full-time faculty member, volunteer faculty or staff in recognition of their significant and distinguished contributions to MCW. Recipients of the DSA must meet specific criteria, including: a minimum of 30 years of service to MCW, a letter of nomination along with additional letters of support from faculty or staff and a comprehensive resume detailing their professional achievements. Nominations were submitted by MCW faculty and staff members who wish to honor a colleague’s enduring impact and commitment to the institution. Please be sure to congratulate Dr. Braza on this well-deserved recognition and for her decades of dedicated service and excellence!

 VA PM&R Leadership Update

We are pleased to announce that Peter Connelly, MD, Associate Professor will assume the role of Acting Section Chief for PM&R. Dr. Connelly joined the VA and MCW after completing his PM&R Residency training at the Medical College of Wisconsin in 2015. Over the course of his career, he has been active clinically at the VA and Froedtert Hospital. Dr. Connelly has advanced training and is certified in Electrodiagnostic Medicine and Neuromuscular Ultrasound. As a part of his VA career, he has helped champion comprehensive pain management care for Veterans including starting and coordinating the Interdisciplinary Functional Restoration Group. He also received the Excellence in Pain Service Award for the Milwaukee VA and has a current research study: Correlating Chronic Pain Patterns and Trauma Profiles Among United States Veterans. He serves as a member on the VISN12 Pain Management, Opioid Safety and PDMP Committee. Dr. Connelly has been actively involved in Education, helping to teach and train medical students interested in PM&R as well as PM&R Residents. He has been recognized for his teaching abilities by winning the Robert Boyle Teacher of the Year Award on numerous occasions. Dr. Connelly’s dedication to the Milwaukee VA will ensure a smooth transition for the section. Please join me in congratulating him on this new role.

PM&R Faculty Featured in Milwaukee Magazine

This year's June issue of Milwaukee Magazine featured faculty doctors from our very own PM&R Department. The June issue features 900 highly regarded medical professionals. The doctors surveyed and selected were from Milwaukee, Waukesha, Ozaukee, Washington and Racine counties. The featured professionals were selected through the verification of licensing, review of any infractions through various applicable boards, agencies, and rating services. Recognized faculty from the PM&R Department include Drs. Heather Curtiss, David Del Toro, Christopher White and Kimberley Zvara. Congratulations to our faculty members who were featured! 

Congratulations to our Graduating PGY IV's and Fellows

Our Department Chair, Christopher White, MD, poses for a photo with our graduating residents and fellows. From left: Ragav Sharma, DO; Hans Anderson, MD, PhD; Will Bataller, MD; Colton Sauer, MD; Harmanjot Singh, DO; Angela Taylor, DO; Papa-Ekow Coleman, MD; Haley Willarson, MD; and Noelle Liska, DO.

Chair Welcome Gift for Dr. Christopher White

Welcome Our New PGYII Residents

"Good Afternoon Team!

Please join me in welcoming our incoming PGY2s!  They have been spending yesterday and today orienting to the department, learning about their rotations, and touring facilities.  Tomorrow, they will start observing/learning on their rotations while shadowing our newly minted PGY3s who are showing them the ropes.  

It's an exciting time of year! We wish our new PGY3s the best as they move towards more outpatient roles and responsibilities as well as our PGY4s as they hone their skills and continue the process of choosing their future paths.  

Thanks for all each of you do to build and progress our Educational Mission within MCW PM&R.  Thanks especially to Drs. Goodfriend, Kotsonis, and Ball for leading the way."

Christopher L. White, MD  

Associate Professor and Chair 

Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Medical Director, Froedtert Bluemound Rehabilitation Hospital   

Meet our New PGYII's 

What drew you to Milwaukee?

"I grew up in Ohio and have always enjoyed living in the Midwest. When my now wife moved to La Crosse, WI in 2021 and I started visiting the state frequently, we both loved the people and surrounding scenery and Milwaukee is no exception."

What drew you to our PM&R program?

"I was drawn to the program by the unique ability of the residents and faculty to be great physicians but also well-rounded individuals. The ability to get excellent training in all facets of the specialty while also maintaining a life outside of work was something that was important to me, and the people here clearly valued as well"

What are your professional interests?

"I'm undecided at this point, but I've always been drawn to musculoskeletal medicine and working with athletes young and old. I'm from a rural area without many physiatrists around, so becoming a generalist and assisting with many different neuromuscular issues is appealing to me as well."

What drew you to Milwaukee?

"Hospitable Midwest culture and the cheese."

What drew you to our PM&R program?

"Overall solid training with a strong focus on EMG, spasticity and pain management."

What are your professional interests?

"I'm open to all avenues including Neuromuscular, Interventional Spine, Interventional Pain, or General Physiatry."

What drew you to Milwaukee?

"My husband grew up locally and we have always loved the area. Milwaukee is home to us and we are happy to finally be back!"

What drew you to our PM&R program?

"What drew you to our PM&R program? I love the faculty at MCW and how prioritized resident education is here. It is an amazing group of people we get to work with over our time at MCW!"

What are your professional interests?

"Currently exploring a career path in pain management but keeping my mind open."

What drew you to Milwaukee?

"I am from Florida originally but have family in Wisconsin so I grew up a cheesehead! I went to Marquette for Undergrad and quickly fell in love with the seasons, the people, and of course all the sports teams."

What drew you to our PM&R program?

"As a medical student at MCW, I was drawn to the inclusiveness and support of the department, the mentorship from our attendings, and the fun culture here at MCW."

What are your professional interests?

"Currently exploring a career path in pain management but keeping my mind open."

What drew you to Milwaukee?

"I've always been a Wisconsin guy, and love multitude of opportunities this city offers - from constant events to a short drive to get out into nature"

What drew you to our PM&R program?

"I absolutely love the people and culture here! I also really appreciate how strong of a presence many of the niches within PM&R are to allow for exploration within the field."

What are your professional interests?

"I would say I am currently most interested in general vs spasticity vs SCI, but I am very, very undecided"

Dr. John McGuire featured in iovera° Commercial

Our research site was selected to be featured in a commercial for iovera° to promote one of the clinical trials our research team is doing with cryoneurolysis. Our very own rising star Dr. John McGuire was featured in the commercial! 

Spasticity Journal Club

Spasticity Journal Club hit the seas of Milwaukee to celebrate the academic year!

Research Team Promotions

Congratulations Dr. John McGuire on his 'Distinguished Member Award' from AAPM&R

Please congratulate Dr. John McGuire on receiving the 'Distinguished Member Award' from AAPM&R. The 'Distinguished Member Award' was Established in 1994 and honors AAPM&R members who have provided invaluable service to the specialty of PM&R. As many as three awards may be given each year. The nominees are AAPM&R Members who have contributed significantly to the advancement of the specialty and have demonstrated excellence in physiatric clinical care, scholarly activities, and/or contributions to the Academy. 

Dr. McGuire was selected as a recipient of this award due to his committed to the advancement and understanding of stroke and spasticity management along with his contributions to the field of spasticity treatment, stroke rehabilitation, education, and training that have been nothing short of exceptional. 

Dr. McGuire pioneered the country’s first spasticity fellowship, which has since trained the highest number of fellows. He has also been an invaluable educator and mentor for more than 30 years. Dr. McGuire was involved in expert consensus statements of neurotoxin dosing, intrathecal baclofen pump management, and combining spasticity treatments.   

His contributions to research are equally notable. He has secured more six million dollars of funding from prominent sources such as industry partners, the NIH and the NSF for innovative research in spasticity treatments and stroke rehabilitation. His research has focused on improving patient’s quality of life and advancing the overall understanding of rehabilitation strategies for those affected by stroke and spasticity. Dr. McGuire has authored numerous publications and book chapters and is known internationally for his contributions to the field. Please be sure to congratulate Dr. McGuire on receiving this award!

National Veterans Wheelchair Games - Minneapolis, MN

This year's National Wheelchair Games took place from July 17th to July 22nd in Minneapolis, MN. The National Veterans Wheelchair Games hosted over 520 wheelchair athletes and 2,000 volunteers with 22 different sports events over 7 days. Team of medical professionals comprised of physicians, nurses, therapists, and mental health specialists provided classification and medical coverage which resulted in 252 classification evaluations (done in two days) and 223 medical clinic encounters throughout the week. Among the team members were MCW faculty and trainees. MCW faculties were Drs. Ken Lee, Vaishnavi Muqeet, Chris White from PM&R; Dr. Beth Weinman from Orthopedics; and Dr. Michael Uihlein from Emergency Med. We also had trainees from MCW: Drs. Kristen Vaccaro, Frederick Halfman, James Jabara, Andrew Hua, Lea Jarrett from PM&R; Dr. Josh Raven from Pediatric Fellowship; and two medical students Jessica Liu and Siyuan Liu. They covered both the makeshift medical clinic as well as sideline medicine with medical issues ranging from complications of chronic baseline medical condition to 911 emergencies. This year was busy with eighteen 911 transfers, 10 non-urgent transport calls, 5 admissions, and 192 return to play evaluations. Of note, MCW residents brought their bicycles and covered the handcycling venue as bike docs with Dr. Weinman covering as attending.  They did a fantastic job caring for the Veterans. All the residents participated in concussion baseline testing utilizing reaction test and some of them supported the Officials Team as sit in officials as well.

Residents attending at the swimming event. 

MCW residents and medical students have dinner with department Chair Christopher, White, MD.

Pictured above: Team Wisconsin representing at the National Veteran's Wheelchair Games.

Global Health, PM&R and Research Update

Each year, medical students at the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) have the opportunity to participate in the Summer Academic Program for Medical Students. A select group is chosen through a competitive process to join the Dr. Elaine Kohler Summer Academy, coordinated by the Department of Global Health, where they engage in mutually beneficial global research.

This summer, the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) partnered with the program to mentor medical student Jordan Murphy in a global rehabilitation research project. Under the guidance of Dr. Mary Elizabeth Nelson-Biersach and global collaborator Dr. Benedict Quao, Jordan worked in Ghana with the team and contributed to the joint research initiative with the Ghana Health Service titled “Exploring the Care Pathway, Rehabilitation Needs, and Prosthesis Access for Patients with Leprosy.”

In June, Dr. Nelson-Biersach traveled to Ghana to spend a week at Ankaful Leprosy and General Hospital, working with local physicians and prosthetics teams to launch the study and coordinate efforts on site.

Global health rotations expose learners to clinical practice in resource-variable settings. These experiences enhance diagnostic and assessment skills, foster interprofessional collaboration, deepen understanding of how social determinants influence health outcomes, and prompt critical reflection on ethical challenges. When paired with hands-on research, such opportunities become transformative for learners and global partners alike.

Dr. Nelson-Biersach looks forward to completing data collection and sharing findings with the department in the near future.

Dr. Nelson-Biersach with leadership at Ankaful Leprosy and General Hospital in Ghana

Entrance gate to Ankaful Leprosy and General Hospital in Ghana

Continued Global Collaboration for PM&R

Over the past six months, Dr. Nelson-Biersach has collaborated with international experts in spasticity management and the leadership of PERDOSRI (Indonesia’s Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine Society) to develop and deliver a four-part, Zoom-based international training program. This initiative brought together clinicians from multiple countries for a dynamic learning experience that emphasized:

• Evidence-based approaches to spasticity treatment
• Instruction by international experts in rehabilitation medicine
• The use of pre- and post-testing to engage learners and assess knowledge gains
• Practical tools for multidisciplinary teams to implement in clinical settings

The training was customized to the Indonesian context, fostering collaborative learning and promoting access to high-quality, multimodal spasticity care globally. Over 200 participants joined all 4 live sessions and completed required learning and tests. A testament to the global desire to increase knowledge in spasticity management!

This project will be presented as a workshop at the ISPRM meeting in November as an example of an innovative educational model. Dr. Nelson-Biersach, together with partners Drs. Rajiv Reebye, Klemen Grabljevec, Stefano Carda, Chloe Haldane, Rita Pane, Lisa Nurhasanah, Ratna Soebadi, Rumaisah Hasan, Meisy Andriana, and Ellyna Sungkar, is currently planning a follow-up in-person, hands-on training series to be delivered in Indonesia in 2026.

PM&R Summer Cruise Party

On August 27th, 2025 our department hosted a summer cruise party to celebrate and connect with our new and current residents, fellows, staff, and faculty.

Attendees boarded the Miss Wisconsin on the Milwaukee River and enjoyed a beautiful evening on the water from 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM. The event offered a fantastic opportunity to welcome our new residents and strengthen social connections across the department in a relaxed and scenic setting.

A very special thank you to Administrative Supervisor Monika Szczerba for her outstanding work in organizing this memorable event!

Pictured above: Faculty, residents, APPs, researchers, and staff from our department gather for a group photo on the top deck of the Miss Wisconsin.

From left: PGY II's August Gerdes, MD; Allyson Gorman, MD; Alexandra Frank, MD; Joshua Kim, MD and Tyler Peterson, MD. 

From Left: Joshua Kim, MD; Rhiannon Shewczyk, Administrative Assistant Sr. and Monika Szczerba, Administrative Supervisor enjoy the view of Lake Michigan. 

From left: Diane Braza, MD; Chen Cui, MD; Heather Curtiss, MD; Andrew Nelson, MD; Carley Sauter, MD and Christopher White, MD. 

From left: Paras Patel, MD; Andrew Hua, MD; Sarah Meeuwsen, MD; Kristen Vaccaro, MD and Ryan Sheilds, MD.

From left: Colton Sauer, MD; Sarah Golus, Clinical Researcher Coordinator III; John McGuire, MD; Erin McGonigle Ketchum, MD; Alan Young, WINS Clinical Research Manager.

Pictured above: Faculty, residents, APPs, researchers, and staff from our department gather for a group From left: Haylee Hopp, Neurology Education Program Coordinator II; Morgan McIlwee, Clinical Research Coordinator II; Sarah Golus, Clinical Research Coordinator III and Alan Young, WINS Clinical Research Manager pose for a photo before sunset. 

Congratulations Dr. Carrie Jones!

Please help us congratulate Dr. Carrie Jones and her family for welcoming their baby Noah James on 6/26/25 at 6:27 pm!

Congratulations Kelly Clohesey! 

Please help us congratulate Clinical Research Coordinator III Kelly Clohesey and her family for welcoming their baby Leighton Christine Clohesey on 8/6/25 at 11:50 am! 

PM&R Philanthropy Case 

Please contact Meg Bilicki, Senior Director of Development  mbilicki@mcw.edu for more information.

To support Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation click on this link!

Department Mascot's Outfit for this Quarter

In this quarter's newsletter, our beloved department mascot, Randy the Rhino, shares a recent photo of himself in Santa Barbara, CA over the summer riding the surf. 

The answer to the riddle below will be provided in our next newsletter. 

"What has keys, but no locks? What has space, but no room? You can enter, but can't go outside."

Answer to our last newsletter's riddle: "when it's ajar"

Wellness Feature: Common Myths on Back Pain

Back pain is more common than homeownership in the U.S. While about 65% of adults own a home, nearly 80% of adults will have back pain at some point. Despite how common this type of pain is, myths about it persist. Here are some facts: 

Myth: Lifting heavy objects is the main cause of back pain. 

Fact: Lifting heavy objects with poor form can contribute to back pain, but the major culprits are a sedentary lifestyle, poor posture, obesity and genetic factors. 

Myth: Bed rest will make my back pain better. 

Fact: Probably not, but it depends on the cause of your pain. If it's muscle strain, taking it easy for a few days may help. However, bed rest can also make back pain last longer or even worsen. If your pain is from nerve compression, a disc issue or joint degeneration, inactivity can cause muscles to tighten, pain to worsen, loss of physical condition and more debility. In these cases, you should modify your activities, switch to low-impact exercises like walking and swimming, and avoid movements like bending, twisting or lifting. Maintaining some degree of physical activity can help you heal faster.

Myth: Back pain is caused by sitting on a fat wallet. 

Fact: Sitting with a large wallet in your back pocket can cause leg or hip pain and numbness, but typically not back pain. A large wallet can tilt your pelvis and compress your sciatic nerve. This nerve is the largest in your body, branching from the lower back through your hips, buttocks and down each leg. Compressing it causes pain or numbness while sitting or driving. After sitting for a long time, you may find walking difficult or feel pins and needles in your legs. 

First, try removing the wallet and taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications. If the leg pain persists, check with a healthcare professional.

Myth: Back pain is always due to a serious underlying condition. 

Fact: Back pain is usually caused by muscle strains or sprains, not by a serious condition like a disc or vertebrae issue. Most back pain resolves on its own,

Myth: Avoid exercise when experiencing back pain. 

Fact: Exercise and physical activity are usually recommended for managing and preventing back pain. Strengthening the core muscles, including your back muscles, improving flexibility, and maintaining a healthy weight can contribute to a healthier back. Depending on your pain, you may need to modify your activity. You know your body best, so listen to it. If something isn't getting better or grows progressively worse, contact a healthcare professional for an evaluation. 

Myth: Surgery is the only solution for chronic back pain. 

Fact: Back pain is often caused by issues that aren't relieved with surgery. Non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, medications, injections and lifestyle modifications are often effective in managing and reducing chronic back pain. Surgery may be necessary if your pain:

• Intensifies, especially at night or when you lie down. 
• Spreads down one or both legs. 
• Causes weakness, numbness or tingling in one or both legs. 
• Occurs with new bowel or bladder control problems.

Seek an immediate medical evaluation if you experience any of these symptoms.

Myth: A firm mattress is the best for alleviating back pain. 

Fact: The ideal mattress firmness varies from person to person. Some people may find relief with a firm mattress, while others may prefer a medium or soft one. When shopping for a new mattress, look for one that provides support and comfort based on your preferences and needs. Also, many companies offer generous return policies so you can try a mattress for a few weeks, or even a few months, before deciding if it's right for you. 

Myth: Poor posture doesn't contribute to back pain. 

Fact: Many people spend hours slouching while staring at a computer rather than sitting at attention, or focusing on cellphones that draw the eyes down and curve the neck. These habits can strain muscles and joints, causing body pain over time. Practice good posture habits and take advantage of ergonomic office equipment to help prevent and alleviate back pain. 

Preventing back pain 

Some back issues can't be avoided, like those caused by injuries, arthritis or genetics. Three things you can do to preserve the health of your back are:  

• Maintain an ideal body weight.
  Excess weight causes increased stress on all joints, including the spine. 
• Strengthen your core.
  Stronger core muscles, including abdominal and intrinsic back muscles, can help take the stress off your spine. 
• Stay active.
  Regular movement is essential for keeping your body active. 

For more information please click here.

Featured Healthy Recipe - Crispy Parmesan Zucchini Chips

Ingredients:

• Olive Oil Spray
• 3 fresh zucchinis
• Kosher salt 
• Grated Parmesan
• Black Pepper

Directions:

1. Slice the zucchini into thin rounds. 
2. Rinse then dry the zucchini rounds.
3. Arrange the zucchini slices on a rimed, parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Spray zucchini slices with olive oil then bake them in the oven at 425°F for 15 minutes.
5. Remove the baking sheet from the oven, keeping the oven on. 
6. Season the zucchini with salt, pepper and grated parmesan. 
7. Place tray back in oven to bake the zucchini slices until browned and crispy for 15-29 minutes.
8. Take out of oven to let cool and enjoy! 

*If you would like to share a favorite healthy recipe in next quarter's newsletter please email Rhiannon Shewczyk at Rshewczyk@mcw.edu

July is French-American Heritage Month

July is designated as French-American Heritage Month and is dedicated to celebrating and honoring the influences and the contributions that the French have had on the United States in art, culture, language, etiquette, and more. There are many ways to celebrate the month and recognize the shared culture and partnership with France. You may choose to enjoy French cuisine with friends, contribute to an organization supporting French-American culture, engage in social media discussions, or take a road trip to New York for a view of the iconic Statue of Liberty, which was made in Paris and presented to the United States in 1881 as a gift to commemorate the alliance between France and the United States.

Important July DE&I calendar dates:

• July 1 – Canada Day (Canada)
• July 4 – Independence Day (USA)
• July 9 – Martyrdom of the Bab (Baha’i)
• July 10 – Asalha Puja Day - Buddhism
• July 11 – World Populace Day
• July 13 – Obon - Buddhism/Shinto
• July 14 – Bastille Day
• July 18 – International Nelson Mandela Day
• July 24 – Pioneer Day (Mormon)
• July 26 – National Disability Independence Day (commemorates the signing of the Americans With Disabilities Act)
• July 27 – Muharram Islamic New Year
• July 30 – International Day of Friendship

August is National Civility Month

National Civility Month is observed annually in August. It's a time to promote respectful and courteous interactions, encouraging individuals and communities to prioritize kindness, empathy, and open-mindedness. This month serves as a reminder of the importance of civility in all aspects of life, from personal relationships to professional settings. 

Important August DE&I Calendar Dates:

• August 1 – Lughnasadh - Wicca/Paganism 
• August 2-3 – Tisha B'Av - Jewish
• August 7 – Purple Heart Day
• August 9 – International Day of the World’s Indigenous People
• August 13 – Left-Handers Day
• August 16 – Krishna Janmashtami - Hindu
• August 17 – Marcus Garvey Day (Jamaican)
• August 19 – World Humanitarian Day
• August 21 – Senior Citizens Day
• August 21-28 – Paryushan Parv/ PasLakshan - Jainism
• August 26 – Women’s Equality Day

September is Hispanic Heritage Month

Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the contributions of Americans tracing their roots to Spain, Mexico, Central America, South America and the Spanish-speaking nations of the Caribbean. In 1968, Congress set aside a week for this observance and two decades later expanded it to a month stretching from September 15 to October 15. The timing is historically significant as September 15 is the anniversary of independence in Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. The designated period is also a nod to those from Mexico and Chile, which celebrate their independence September 16 and September 18, respectively.

September Month-long Observations:

• National Guide Dog Month
• Suicide Prevention Month

Important September DE&I Calendar Dates:

• September 1 – Labor Day
• September 5 – International Day of Charity
• September 11 – Patriot Day (U.S.A.)
• September 15 – International Day of Democracy
• September 16 – Mexican Independence Day
• September 21 – International Day of Peace
• September 21 – World Gratitude Day
• September 21-29 – Mabon - (Northern Hemisphere) Wicca/Paganism 
• September 21-29 – Ostara - (Southern Hemisphere) Wicca/Paganism 
• September 22 – American Business Women’s Day
• September 22 – Rosh Hashanah begins 
• September 22 – October 1 – Navratri - Hindu
• September 26 – National Native American Day
• September 30 – National Day for Truth & Reconciliation (Canada)

COVID-19 Guidelines 

MCW and our affiliate hospital partners are committed to containing the spread of COVID-19 and its variants. MCW includes COVID-19 vaccination in our Mandatory Vaccination Program requiring students and learners who participate in clinical care to be fully vaccinated or have an approved exemption accommodation to be considered compliant. The COVID-19 vaccine requirement has been discontinued for employees effective June 13, 2023, following recent guidance from the CDC and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). 

Learners who participate in clinical care will submit proof of COVID-19 vaccination prior to commencement of their educational program at MCW or MCWAH (residents). To be compliant, individuals must have received both doses of a two-dose vaccination.

To submit proof of vaccination, please send a picture or screenshot of one of the following documents to IOHCovid@froedtert.com:

• CDC vaccine card
• Epic record
• Wisconsin Immunization Registry record (or other state registry)

MCW continues to strongly recommend COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters to protect against COVID-19, but vaccination is not required as a condition of employment with MCW. While COVID-19 vaccination is no longer required for employees at this time, MCW reserves the right to modify requirements under this program at any time.

Learners who obtain boosters somewhere other than Froedtert IOH should submit their documentation to IOHCovid@froedtert.com with the subject line, “ COVID Vaccine Records.” Additionally, School of Medicine and School of Pharmacy students should upload documentation to CastleBranch, and Graduate School students should email it to Angela Backus.

You can learn more information here.

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