Palliative Care Graduates Undertake Noble Mission to Impact Lives of Patients

University of Maryland, Baltimore recognized 43 graduates of the Graduate Studies in Palliative Care.

By Andrew Tie
August 20, 2024

The University of Maryland, Baltimore celebrated 43 graduates of the online Graduate Studies in Palliative Care in a summer ceremony at Pharmacy Hall on Aug. 9.

Of the Class of 2024, 36 received their Master of Science degree and seven received a graduate certificate. Two members of the class completed a dual degree along with their Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree, which they received in May from the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy.

The graduates, most of whom work full-time, have spent the last few years learning virtually during their time outside of work and family responsibilities. The online program trains individuals to work in hospice or palliative care to improve the quality of lives of patients and families affected by serious illness by understanding their physical, psychological, spiritual, and social needs. The program attracts a diverse range of disciplines in health care, such as physicians, nurses, and chaplains.

“I’m so proud and excited to be hosting our graduation celebration, and I’m inordinately proud of all of you,” said Mary Lynn McPherson, PharmD, PhD, BCPS, professor in the Department of Practice, Sciences, and Health Outcomes Research at the School of Pharmacy and executive director of Graduate Studies in Palliative Care. “My favorite compliment about the program that I’ve heard is how practical and applicable the content is. I love how you share your learning with your team and colleagues.”

Speakers Congratulate and Laud Graduates

Invited speakers praised the graduates for taking on the honorable and challenging task of palliative medicine.

“As much as we are a state institution and officially a secular institution, the work you are all doing is sacred,” said Kenneth Wong, PhD, vice provost for graduate education at the University of Maryland, Baltimore and dean of the University of Maryland School of Graduate Studies. “I really appreciate all that you contribute to everyone whose lives you will touch going forward.”

Tom Gualtieri-Reed, MBA, who teaches in the program and was named Teacher of the Year, thanked the graduates for bringing their intentionality, spirit, and experiences to the program.

“As our field and needs continue to grow, we need you,” Gualtieri-Reed said. “We need individuals who see the problems and are willing and ready to get into the mix and figure them out.”

Student Reflections

Student speakers spoke about the journey of the last few years, balancing the responsibilities in their lives, and why they were interested in palliative medicine.

Kimberly Jordan, MD, MS ’24, HMDC, a family medicine physician, recalled impactful lessons from the program’s courses, such as cultural humility and cultural competency.

“Something we need to take with us is understanding each one of us is different,” Jordan said. “It’s a different experience when we interact with someone, whether it’s a patient, a family member, or someone on the street. We must appreciate those differences and recognize that’s what makes that interaction special.”

Keara Barnaby, MS ’24, PA-C, a physician’s assistant specializing in oncology, said the most satisfying feeling at work was hearing a patient report that they feel better or more like themselves.

“I am forever grateful to this program, to this university, and especially to Dr. Lynn McPherson,” Barnaby said. “Her vision, passion, integrity, and mentorship throughout this journey lives in all of us and changes the lives of the patients we treat.”

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