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Four medical students in the 91ֱ����Ƶ College of Osteopathic Medicine (91ֱ����ƵCOM) have been selected for the highly competitive Hazelden Betty Ford Summer Institute for Medical Students (SIMS) fellowship program. 

Class of ’27 students Rachel Glasser, Kacper Iwanowski, Bethany Santo, and Chase Sisk were selected among just 16 students nationwide to attend an immersive substance use disorder (SUD) training program in Palm Springs, California, this May. 

The SIMS program equips future physicians with the skills to prevent, identify, and comprehensively treat addiction. Fellows attend lectures, interactive seminars, and clinical experiences focused on developing expertise in SUD screening, intervention, treatment, and recovery.  

Earlier this year, 91ֱ����Ƶreceived word that it was one of five medical schools to be selected for the SIMS application process.  

“We are incredibly proud to have been selected as a flagship medical school,” said Marilyn Gugliucci, Ph.D., professor and director of Geriatrics Education and Research at 91ֱ����ƵCOM. “It is fabulous that four of our osteopathic medical students have been selected for this valuable educational opportunity.” 

According to the 2022 Maine Community Health Needs Assessment, substance and alcohol use was identified as a top priority among all counties across the state. The report stated that The lack of preventative services, including trained professionals, were a factor.  

“This fellowship has the potential for long-term local and regional impact,” Gugliucci said. “And our students’ commitment to this important area of medicine will undoubtedly make a positive impact on countless lives.”