Membership Eligibility: Jefferson College of Rehabilitation Sciences Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The purpose of the AAOMPT-sSIG is to serve its members by fostering active student involvement and networking within the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists and developing a community of students committed to the advancement of Orthopedic Manual Physical Therapy, ultimately developing future leaders not only in the field of orthopaedic manual physical therapy, but the physical therapy profession as a whole.

The AAOMPT-sSIG will provide students with a passion for the field of orthopaedic and/or sports PT, with supplemental class material with contemporary/cutting-edge practice ideology.

Contact Information

Organization Email: ASL@jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Lisa Hoglund, PT, PhD, OCS, Cert. MD | Associate Professor, Department of Physical Therapy | 901 Walnut Street, Room 511, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Membership Eligibility: Jefferson College of Pharmacy

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Jefferson Chapter of the Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy (AMCP) strives to build awareness on the various opportunities provided through Managed Care Pharmacy. In addition we intend to advance the practice of Managed Care through building collaborative relationships with other student leadership organizations, faculty, and current practitioners in Managed Care.

Contact Information

Organization Email: amcp@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Emily.R. Hajjar, PharmD, MS, BCPS, BCACP, BCGP | Program Director, Population Health, Jefferson College of Pharmacy | 901 Walnut Street, Suite 901, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-8522.

Membership Eligibility: Jefferson College of Pharmacy Only  

Membership Dues or Fees: $49

Description: The APhA-ASP Jefferson College of Pharmacy Chapter was founded to empower and encourage student involvement in issues that impact the advancement of the profession and future patient care. APhA-ASP members are involved in a variety of activities that engage the community and promote the pharmacy profession, including screenings and information to raise awareness of the critical role pharmacists play in shaping the direction of healthcare. As a member of APhA-ASP, students gain access to a wide range of opportunities that will help inform and shape their future careers. The Jefferson Chapter was officially integrated as a recognized school chapter within the APhA organization in 2010. Membership dues provide the financial support necessary to conduct events and activities.

Contact Information

Organization Email: apha@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Emily Scopelliti, PharmD, BCPS, Associate Professor, Jefferson College of Pharmacy | 901 Walnut Street, Suite 901, Philadelphia, PA  | 215-503-9756

Membership Eligibility: All Members of Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The goal of the Aerospace Medicine Society is to increase knowledge about, and to provide exposure to, the field of aerospace medicine.

Contact Information

Organization Email: aerospacemedicine@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: John Hanifin, PhD | Assistant Professor, Neurology | 1025 Walnut Street, College Building, Room 509, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-9409

Membership Eligibility: All members of the Jefferson community.

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The American Academy of Developmental Medicine & Dentistry (AADMD) is a nonprofit, membership organization of interdisciplinary health professionals and students – including those in medicine, nursing, occupational therapy, and other specialties – committed to improving the quality of healthcare for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) through advocacy, exchanging ideas, mentorship, and more. All members of the Jefferson community are welcome and encouraged to be involved and attend events. There is no membership fee.

Contact Information

Organization Email: AADMD@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Mary M Stephens, MD, MPH, FAAFP, FAADM | Associate Professor, Family and Community Medicine; Co-Director, Jefferson Continuing Care Program, Navy Yard | 3 Crescent Dr, 2nd Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19112 | 215-503-7136.

Membership Eligibility: Sidney Kimmel Medical College Only  

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The mission of the SKMC Chapter of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS) is to provide a forum for students to organize professional, educational, and research activities within neurosurgery, promote mentorship with neurosurgery residents and faculty members on campus, and increase interest and awareness of neurosurgery at SKMC The SKMC Chapter of the AANS runs several events each year, including journal club meetings, fundraising events, Q/A panels, and lectures given by residents and faculty members on a variety of topics in neurosurgery.

Contact Information

Organization Email: aans@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Chengyuan Wu, MD | Assistant Professor, Department of Neurological Surgery | 909 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-7000.

Membership Eligibility: Jefferson College of Pharmacy Only

Membership Dues or Fees: $10.00

Description: Surprisingly, there aren't any student chapters of the American College of Veterinary Pharmacists (ACVP) in the entire Mid-Atlantic region. Pets are increasingly becoming an integral part of many people's lives, to the point that many are interested in interventional care for their beloved dog or cat. In light of this, more and more people are willing to fill prescriptions on behalf of their pets, causing an increasing number to be filled at area pharmacies instead of specialty pet med companies or veterinary clinics. However, animals have unique pharmacy needs that pharmacists and pharmacy students should be educated about. Furthermore, while community pharmacies like CVS can "catch" a dosing-related error for humans, their computerized systems do not flag such misentries for animals. Thus, it is imperative that student pharmacists are educated on the most common prescriptions filled for pets and the parameters of those numbers. In the short term, aside from the aforementioned educational endeavors, we want to have community outreach events, to educate the public about double-checking medications filled for pets outside of veterinary settings. Furthermore, we’d like to organize philanthropic initiatives like a Christmas pet food drive, and partnering with the ACCT Philly Pen Pals program to increase the expose of shelter pets and provide those animals with an occasional reprieve from shelter life on the “doggy field trips” through Pen Pals.

Looking to the long term, our goals are to expand the opportunities for pharmacy students at Jefferson to do elective rotations in veterinary pharmacy. The opportunities for veterinary pharmacy in this region are currently untapped, as we are located next to Ryan Hospital (Penn Vet). Additionally, there are five postgraduate residencies in veterinary pharmacy in the U.S., so we’d also be working alongside the ACVP to expand this number as more pharmacy students become interested in a career outside of human populations.

Contact Information

Organization Email: acvp@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Gudrun Debes, DVM | Associate Professor, Department of Physical Therapy | 233 South 10th Street, Room 526, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: With the retirement and aging of the baby boomer population, geriatric medicine has become a quickly expanding field in all healthcare professions. Many students are not exposed to geriatrics, which involves a set of considerations and concerns separate from those of children and adults, until late in their schooling. The student chapter of the American Geriatrics Society at Thomas Jefferson University advances the awareness of the great need for care of the older adult. The purpose of this organization is three-fold: To facilitate career interest in geriatric medicine through early exposure to different practice options and patient care settings; to educate students on health issues pertinent to the care of the older adult through sponsored didactics and supervised clinical experiences; and to foster interdisciplinary interactions through volunteering initiatives designed to promote collaborative geriatric care. Students of all schools at Jefferson interested in geriatric medicine are invited to participate in the development of our organization, and its didactic, forward-thinking, and innovative programing events. This year, we plan launch events that look critically at topics such as Medicare in the current era and cannabis use in the geriatrics populations, all of which are eligible for Asano credit.

Contact Information

Organization Email: ags@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Emily R. Hajjar, PharmD, MS, BCPS, BCACP, BCGP | Program Director, Population Health Pharmacy, Jefferson College of Pharmacy | 901 Walnut Street, Suite 901, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-8522

Membership Eligibility: Sidney Kimmel Medical College Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The American Medical Student Association (AMSA), with more than a half-century history of medical student activism, is the oldest and largest independent association of physicians-in-training in the United States. AMSA is a student-governed, nonprofit organization committed to representing the concerns of physicians-in-training. AMSA is devoted to providing social support for students and fostering a socially conscious attitude toward the medical profession. AMSA focuses on five strategic priorities, including universal healthcare, disparities in medicine, diversity in medicine, leadership development, and transforming the culture of medicine. Students who join AMSA have the opportunity to participate in regional and national events, including the annual AMSA Convention. The Jefferson Chapter participates in a rapid HIV testing program, guest lectures, service drives, and educational sessions for the Jefferson community. Meetings are held several times a semester and are open to all medical students.

Contact Information

Organization Email: amsa@jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Kathryn Trayes, MD | Associate Dean, Department of Student Affairs & Career Counseling | 1025 Walnut Street, Room 116, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-6988

Membership Eligibility: Sidney Kimmel Medical College Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: AMWA is an international organization dedicated to promoting women's health and advancing the careers of female medical students and physicians. AMWA's goal is to provide both personal and professional support for its members through mentorships and special events with faculty members and within the medical student community. Past events have included a faculty-student mentor program, lunch seminars, an afterschool tutoring program, the annual women's forum, and a lecture series promoting women in research. As of spring 2022, AMWA has been partnering with the SPOT, a local organization that provides free menstrual products and health information to marginalized women and girls in the Philadelphia area. AMWA plans to continue these traditions while incorporating new ideas from current and future members.

Contact Information

Organization Email: amwa@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Karen Novielli, MD | Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs, Department of Family & Community Medicine | 900 Walnut Street, 8th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-2631

Membership Eligibility: Jefferson College of Pharmacy Only  

Membership Dues or Fees: $60.00

Description: The APhA-ASP Jefferson College of Pharmacy Chapter was founded to empower and encourage student involvement in issues that impact the advancement of the profession and future patient care. APhA-ASP members are involved in a variety of activities that engage the community and promote the pharmacy profession; including screenings and information to raise awareness of the critical role pharmacists play in shaping the direction of healthcare. As a member of APhA-ASP, students gain access to a wide range of opportunities that will help inform and shape their future careers. The Jefferson Chapter was officially integrated as a recognized school chapter within the APhA organization in 2010. Membership dues provide the financial support necessary to conduct events and activities.

Contact Information

Organization Email: apha@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Emily Scopelliti, PharmD, BCPS | Associate Professor, Jefferson College of Pharmacy | 901 Walnut Street, Suite 901, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-9756

Membership Eligibility: All Jefferson Students

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The mission of this student organization is to bring research awareness to students who may not interact with it often or know how to do so. Along with the first-year SKMC curriculum, we will hold events where an expert in a certain field (e.g., cardiology) will go over their research and explain to students how they went about this research and its significance. Research is often stressed as crucial to medical students; however, how to interpret it is never explained, and we hope to serve that purpose.

Organization Email: aimedicine@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Paras Lakhani, MD | Associate Professor, Department of Diagnostic Radiology | 132 South 10th Street, Suite 796C, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-4551

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Cardiovascular Society's mission is to stimulate interest in the cardiovascular specialties, raise awareness about heart disease, and promote heart health in the community. In addition to hosting healthcare professionals to give students a glimpse into various cardiovascular specialties, the Cardiovascular Society hopes to provide an avenue for students to be able to advocate for heart health both at Jefferson and in the surrounding community through events such as heart screenings and CPR/AED training.

Contact Information

Organization Email: cardiosociety@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Nicholas Ruggiero, MD | Professor, Department of Cardiology, SKMC | 925 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-3718

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: There exists a lack of exposure to the field of child neurology as a possible career choice within Jefferson's healthcare curriculum. Our group aims to fill that gap by educating members on the possibilities in child neurology, connecting students with physicians and other health providers in the field who can speak on their experiences as trainees and providers to children with acute and chronic neurological conditions.

The goals for the Child Neurology Society include:

1. Connecting students with a passion for pediatric neurology, or exploring the fields of neurology and pediatrics, and how they might meld.
2. Introducing faculty and residents within the Nemours Child Neurology training program to SKMC students.
3. Providing educational programming that will be informative to students as they explore options for residency or other specialized training.

Contact Information

Organization Email: CNS@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Stephen Falchek, MD | Pediatric Neurologist, Division of Neurology, 1600 Rockland Road, Wilmington, DE 19803

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: Our organization will promote and arrange opportunities for Jefferson students to learn and practice skills related to teaching topics in science and medicine in Philadelphia schools. Our mission is to connect Jefferson students with classrooms in need of scientific education, to inspire an interest and passion for science in the Philly students, while also allowing Jefferson students to practice the skills of patient education, community engagement, and effective communication. We also hope to foster direct engagement between Philly students and Jefferson students, allowing Jefferson students to function as trustworthy role models and inspirational figures for the students they teach.

Contact Information

Organization Email: CSTC@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Wayne Bond Lau, MD | Assistant Dean, Office of Student Affairs, Emergency Medicine | 1025 Walnut Street, 116 College Building, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-505-1602

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: Diagnostic Radiology is a medical specialty that students often do not get exposure to until the later stages of their training. Medical imaging is becoming a larger part of medicine and affects nearly all disciplines in medicine. This group will help fill in the gap in radiology education that currently exists among all of the Jefferson colleges, in order to expose and encourage students to pursue a career in the radiologic sciences as well as educate students that are not pursuing radiology about the field.

Contact Information

Organization Email: drig@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Robert Ford | Assistant Professor, Division of Interventional Radiology | 111 South 11th Street, Suite 5340, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Membership Eligibility: Sidney Kimmel Medical College Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The purpose of the DePalma Orthopaedic Society is to encourage interest in the specialty of orthopaedic surgery by offering exposure to the field through various lectures, clinical encounters, and hands-on experiences. The Society also serves to help advise students applying for positions in orthopaedic surgery residency programs. The Society has several meetings throughout the year where faculty and residents lecture on interesting topics in orthopaedic surgery. Activities also include several clinical skills sessions on topics such as musculoskeletal physical exam and joint injections. In addition, the Society gives interested students the opportunity to observe orthopaedic surgeons in the clinic and in the operating room. Finally, a mentorship program provides a way to develop relationships with faculty members for guidance and involvement in research projects. Meetings are held several times throughout the year. The Society has been in existence for 12 years and was previously known as the Jefferson Orthopaedic Association. There are no dues or fees.

Contact Information

Organization Email: jeffortho@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Alan Hilibrand, MD | Orthopaedics, Joseph and Marie Field Professor of Spinal Surgery | 925 Chestnut Street, 5th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 267-339-3500  

Membership Eligibility: All Members of Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: Diagnostic Radiology is a medical specialty that students often do not get exposure to until the later stages of their training. Medical imaging is becoming a larger part of medicine and affects nearly all disciplines in medicine. This group will help fill in the gap in radiology education that currently exists among all of the Jefferson colleges, in order to expose and encourage students to pursue a career in the radiologic sciences as well as educate students about the field who are not pursuing radiology.

Currently, students have limited exposure to radiology during preclinical years. We would like to expose more students to radiology earlier in their careers so that they can make a more educated decision in regards to their future specialty. Furthermore, even for those who are not going into radiology, learning how to interpret basic imaging modalities will be very useful in many clinical endeavors. In the short term, we hope to start some preliminary educational programs to serve as longitudinal resources that students can benefit from even during the early stages of their schooling. After the group has been established for several years, we hope to expand to more advanced events, such as hands-on training and collaboration with other institutions in Philadelphia.

Contact Information

Organization Email: drig@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Robert Ford | Assistant Professor, Division of Interventional Radiology | 111 South 11th Street, Suite 5340, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-6440

Membership Eligibility: All Jefferson Students

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The mission and purpose of the Endocrinology Interest Group is as follows:

• To help Jefferson students gain an understanding of what is involved in a career in endocrinology.
• To inform Jefferson students at all stages of training about the educational, community service, and legislative activities of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology (AACE).
• To learn about concepts related to chronic disease and disease prevention, including, but not limited to, obesity, diabetes, appetite, hunger, thyroid disease, and adrenal pathology.
• To promote clinical skills related to treating patients with endocrine-related diseases.
• To raise awareness of social determinants of health and stigma toward obesity.
• To strengthen interdisciplinary efforts related to endocrinology projects.
• To increase diabetes advocacy within the Jefferson and Philadelphia communities.

Some of our events include physician panels, speakers, workshops, community outreach, and shadowing opportunities.

Contact Information

Organization Email: EndoInterestGroup@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Barbara Simon, MD | Associate Professor, Endocrinology | 911 South 9th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19147 | 215-955-1925

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Genetics and Genomics Society at Jefferson's goal is to promote student awareness and education regarding genetics and genomics in the practice of medicine and act as a resource for students interested in exploring potential career paths in genetics and genomics. Although the concepts of genetics and genomics have been present within the medical field for many years, the technologies and applications of genetics and genomics in clinical medicine are still young and developing. The field of genetics and genomics is a current hotbed for discovery in medicine, with incredible potential in the future for predicting, preventing, and treating disease.

Organization Email: GGS@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Dr. Huda Al-Kouatly | Associate Professor, Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Medical Genetics and Genomics | 833 Chestnut Street, Floor 1, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-5000

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The mission of our club, Global Health Brigades (GHB), is two-fold. One goal is to engage Jefferson students throughout the academic year by hosting educational events, including lectures by guest speakers, in order to increase exposure to global healthcare and to develop cross-cultural competency. Another goal is to give students the opportunity to work with peers from multiple health programs through fundraising, event and trip planning, and an interdisciplinary global health experience abroad one to two times per year. Global Health Brigades will add to the growing number of global health efforts at Jefferson by providing another avenue for students to participate in a meaningful service opportunity.

The national Global Brigades organization currently sends medical, public health, and other brigades to Honduras, Panama, Nicaragua, and Ghana, but they have the potential to expand to other countries. The average trip is one-week long, which allows students to fit this global health experience into their winter break and/or their summer. A week-long trip abroad also allows students to participate in paid and unpaid summer internships and to explore other interests.

The mission of Global Brigades is to drive social change in the communities served, in order to improve the quality of healthcare and overall health, particularly through health education. Our GHB club at Jefferson aims to contribute to the GB organization by sending students to these areas, to provide acute clinical care as well as assist in developing infrastructure and tackling local health issues, making a positive, sustainable impact. After participating in a brigade, we hope that Jefferson students gain a broader understanding of cultural, economic, and social determinants of health.

While planning for the brigade will be a large component of our club, our primary goal is to establish an active student organization that offers opportunities for students to learn more about global health through a lecture series and cultural events hosted throughout the year. Our aim is to provide students with additional opportunities to combine the study of healthcare abroad while contributing to a sustainable effort to help an underserved population. We hope to bring a greater awareness to the entire Jefferson community regarding the challenges other nations face in the delivery of quality healthcare.

Contact Information

Organization Email: GHB@jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Nicholas Leon, PharmD | Associate Professor of Pharmacy Practice, Jefferson College of Pharmacy | 901 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-6369

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The purpose of the Global Health Society, formerly known as the International Medicine Society (IMS), is to facilitate the process of going abroad for Jefferson students, by providing information concerning possible global health education opportunities. In addition, the Global Health Society expands and maintains a network of students, faculty, and alumni that enables members to share insights, resources, and contacts concerning medical education abroad.

Seminars and general meetings are held to present experiences by faculty and students in international healthcare, and to educate students regarding health issues and current healthcare challenges abroad. The Global Health Society also helps raise cultural awareness through various cultural activities on campus. The Global Health Society aids all students with an interest in global health so that they may reap the benefits of exposure to different cultures, healthcare systems, and paradigms of thinking.

Please visit the Global Health Society at the Office of International Exchange Services, Room M-70, Jefferson Alumni Hall. The Global Health Society has been in existence for 19 years.

Contact Information

Organization Email: ims@jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Janice Bogen, MA | Assistant Vice President, International Affairs, Office of International Affairs | Jefferson Alumni Hall, 1020 Locust Street, Room M-70, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-4335

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Global Health Student Consortium (GHSC) aims to promote collaboration between student groups at Jefferson in an effort to address global health issues, promote global health education on and/or off campus, facilitate communication between student-led and institutional efforts to address global health issues, and expand opportunities for interprofessional global health education at Jefferson. GHSC activities include organizing member meetings, maintaining a calendar of global health events occurring at Jefferson, organizing an annual Global Health Conference (the JeffX Conference), and hosting a lecture series devoted to global health-related topics. All Jefferson students are eligible for membership.

Contact Information

Organization Email: GHSC@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Dr. Andres Fernandez | Assistant Professor, Department of Neurology | 901 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-1891

Membership Eligibility: Jefferson College of Nursing Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Global Nursing Club presents and connects Jefferson School of Nursing students to university and community activities that:

• Expand awareness of and address global healthcare inequalities.
• Empower future practitioners to provide culturally competent care.
• Explore the relationship between global health and the Greater Philadelphia area.

Contact Information

Organization Email: global.nursing@jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Amy Szajna, BSN, MSN, PhD (enrolled) | Instructor, Jefferson College of Nursing | Edison Building, 130 South 9th Street, Suite 841, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-8318

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: We are a learning community with the goal of helping students understand educational resources, including online video series and spaced-repetition software. We also answer questions about these resources and provide peer-to-peer assistance.

Contact Information

Organization Email: hippo.campus@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: James Dykesn, MA, MSEd | Director, Academic Support Services | Office of Student Affairs, Edison Building, 130 South 9th Street, Suite 1800, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-2787

Membership Eligibility: Sidney Kimmel Medical College Only

Membership Dues or Fees: $15.00

Description: The Hobart Amory Honor (HAH) Society inducts Sidney Kimmel Medical College students that have achieved excellent academic marks on their preclinical exams or during their internal medicine clerkship. HAH has a major academic presence on campus, supporting medical student education through a variety of programs, including weekly tutoring sessions, exam reviews, and hosting journal clubs. Another objective of the organization is to provide opportunities to its members to assume leadership roles and support their peers academically.

Contact Information

Organization Email: hah@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Aaron Martin, MD | Attending Physician, Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology | 132 South 10th Street, Suite 480, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-8900

Membership Eligibility: Sidney Kimmel Medical College Students

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Infectious Disease Society aims to provide SKMC students interested in infectious diseases with opportunities to learn more about the specialty through physician speaker events, informational sessions, and resources for shadowing, research, volunteering, networking, and mentorship. The ID society hosts several events each year, including an introduction to a career in Infectious Disease and seminars that address relevant topics in the specialty.

Organization Email: IDS@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Joseph DeSimone, Jr., MD | Professor of Medicine | Department of Medicine, 1015 Chestnut Street, Suite 1020, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-7785

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: Innovation, Design, Entrepreneurship Accelerator (IDEA) is a club that aims to incorporate innovation-based thinking as a part of every medical student’s toolkit, to challenge the traditional norms of clinical medicine. Our goal is to teach medical students how to identify and solve clinical practice pain points and system inefficiencies, to alleviate daily challenges faced by patients and providers. Our sessions will be supplemented with workshops at the Health Design Lab’s vault, covering topics such as 3D printing, the art of the pitch, and design thinking within the healthcare space. By accelerating innovation-based research, prototyping, and commercialization, our long-term goal is to inspire collaborative projects that lead to implementation within the Jefferson hospital system and beyond.

Contact Information

Organization Email: idea@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Robert Pugliese, PharmD | Director of Innovation Design, Thomas Jefferson University, Health Design Lab | 925 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: Integrative Medicine is a healing-oriented approach to patient care that focuses on the health of the whole person, including the impact of one’s lifestyle. Using an evidence-based approach, this field incorporates conventional medicine and alternative therapies when they are supported by science. Integrative Medicine considers the health of the mind, body, spirit, and community in its pursuit of wellness and disease prevention for patients. The Integrative Medicine Society (formerly Ars Medica) aims to explore this field to learn how we, as future physicians, can use a holistic and broad spectrum of care to more fully address the needs of our patients and work on the root causes of disease. Come learn about the future of medicine with our Lunchtime Talks, wellness workshops, and community engagement. Joining us will provide you with many hands-on learning opportunities as well as exposure to Integrative Medicine faculty who can provide career advice, mentorship, shadowing experience, and research opportunities. We can’t wait to meet you!

Contact Information

Organization Email: integrative.medicine@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Andrew Newbuerg, MD | Research Director, Marcus Institute of Integrative Health | 925 Chestnut Street, Suite 120, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-9070

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: $15.00

Description: Since 2005, the International Society for Pharmacoeconomics & Outcomes Research (Jeff-ISPOR) serves to link students interested in pharmacoeconomics and members of the pharmaceutical industry, health-related organizations, and academia. It is our mission to provide an environment that gives students the opportunity to share knowledge in pharmacoeconomics and health outcomes research, and become familiar with the affairs of Jeff-ISPOR. Jeff-ISPOR acts as resource for students who are interested in a career in pharmacoeconomics, outcomes research, or pharmaceutical service design. Jeff-ISPOR provides exposure in pharmacoeconomics and outcomes research to students with semester activities, which include: a fall information session, guest speakers, monthly educational meetings, residency/fellowship events, and philanthropy events each semester.

Contact Information

Organization Email: jeffispor@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Allison Tan, MD | Assistant Professor, Interventional Radiology | Main Building, 111 South 11th Street, Suite 5340, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-7976

Membership Eligibility: Sydney Kimmel Medical College Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description:The Interprofessional Nutrition Initiative facilitates interactive discussion about relevant topics in nutrition. In the previous year, we had faculty and professionals from the Jefferson community come and discuss Diabetes Management, Nutrition in Underserved Populations, Nutrition and Behavior Change, and Taking a Brief and Focused Diet History. Our goal is to create dialogue and increase awareness concerning topics in nutritional health.

Contact Information

Organization Email: ini@jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Emily Rubin, RD | Registered Dietician, Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology | 132 South 10th Street, Suite 480, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-4152

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The mission and purpose of the Interventional Radiology Interest Group is to promote the medical specialty of interventional radiology, increase awareness of minimally invasive treatment modalities, and facilitate student research and experience in the field. Lecture events include physician speakers discussing the field of IR in different settings, how to pursue the field and conduct research, and future directions of the specialty. Other activities include hands-on skill sessions practicing using different tools within IR, such as simulators, ultrasound, and biopsy tools. Members may be students from any Jefferson College.

Contact Information

Organization Email: irig@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Allison Tan, MD | Assistant Professor, Department of Radiology, Division of Interventional Radiology | 132 South 10th Street, Main Building, Suite 766, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-7976

Membership Eligibility: Sidney Kimmel Medical College Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Jefferson Anesthesia Society (JAS) is SKMC's student interest group for the specialty of anesthesiology. The JAS hosts lectures throughout the year by Jefferson anesthesiology residents and attendings, regarding the work and lifestyle of an anesthesiologist, as well as connects students to ongoing research opportunities. The JAS also organizes practical workshops in the Hamilton Simulation Center, where students can practice skills such as intubation on models. Near the end of the academic year, the JAS hosts a post-match Q&A panel where recently matched 4th-year students discuss the application and interview process to anesthesiology residency.

Contact Information

Organization Email: JeffersonAnesthesiaSociety.svc@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Julie Ma | Clinical Assistant Professor, Anesthesiology | 111 South 11th Street, 6201 Gibbon, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-505-6161

Membership Eligibility: All members of Jefferson community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Jefferson Athlete Health Organization aims to allow Jefferson students to gain exposure to the field of sports medicine, with the goal of helping students explore sports medicine prior to making career decisions. The organization provides members with various opportunities, including informational lunch presentations, sports medicine physician shadowing and research opportunities, clinical skills sessions, and local sports medicine events information. The organization also hosts the Annual Powderpuff Football Game, sponsors the Philly Health Cares 5K Run, and partners with the Athlete Health Organization (AHO) in Philadelphia to organize and run a city-wide athlete screening event.

Contact Information

Organization Email: jsms@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Jeremy Close, MD, FAAFP | Director of Sports Medicine, Department of Family & Community Medicine | 834 Walnut Street, Suite 110, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-0638

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community  

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: Founded in 2012, BizBio is a diverse group of Jeffersonians thinking and working outside the academic box. We are faculty looking to translate our research to patients. We are graduate students looking to use our degrees in unique and impactful ways. We are medical and nursing students looking to approach the healthcare system from a different angle. Regardless of background or position, we are united by a shared interest in the business of science. Sound interesting? Read on and join our email list to see what we’re about.

Contact Information

Organization Email: bizbio@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Lisa Kozlowski, PhD | Associate Dean for Student & Post-Doctoral Affairs, Jefferson College of Life Sciences | 1020 Locust Street, M-46, Phildelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-5750

Membership Eligibility: Sidney Kimmel Medical College Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Jefferson Dermatology Society provides a great opportunity for students at Jefferson to learn about dermatology and the match process, and to help students investigate their curiosities about the field. This student organization typically has talks that include an introduction to general dermatology, talks about dermatology research and research opportunities at Jefferson, explanation of dermatology cases, and a post-match panel. We also have talks about specialties within dermatology, such as cosmetics and pathology. Since dermatology is an extremely competitive field, it is crucial to have an organization that provides students information and resources about the field and advice about matching. Not only are the events helpful for those interested in applying to dermatology, but they are also helpful for those interested in other fields that want a baseline knowledge of dermatology in order to provide better care for patients. The society works closely with dermatology attendings and residents to provide the best information available for students. Our goal is to provide current information to students and teach students about the field.

Contact Information

Organization Email: jds@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Sherry Yang, MD | Assistant Professor, Department of Dermatology & Cutaneous Biology | 33 South 9th Street, Suite 740, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-6680

Membership Eligibility: All Jefferson Students

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Jefferson Emergency Medicine Society (JEMS) is a student-run interest group dedicated to educating students about emergency medicine. JEMS seeks to provide students with opportunities to learn about topics relevant to emergency medicine, practice clinical skills, interact with Jefferson emergency medicine physicians and gain exposure to the Emergency Department throughout all stages of medical education.

Contact Information

Organization Email: jems@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Wayne Bond Lau, MD, FAAEM, FACEP | Professor, Emergency Medicine; Associate Dean, Student Affairs | College Building, 1025 Walnut Street, Suite 116, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-6988

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues: None

Description: The Jefferson Chapter of the IHI Open School meets to discuss topics such as healthcare quality, quality improvement, and patient safety. The goal of our organization is to raise awareness of the importance of quality improvement, develop patient safety competencies, and encourage the inclusion of these fields in the education of all health disciplines. In addition, we support the participation of students in quality improvement projects at Jefferson and seek to increase their involvement moving forward.

Contact Information

Organization Email: open.school@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Mary Cooper, MD, JD | Associate Professor, Jefferson College of Population Health (JCPH) | 901 Walnut Street, 10th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-3888

Membership Eligibility: Jefferson College of Pharmacy Only

Membership Dues or Fees: $10.00 for local membership; $100.00 for national membership

Description: The Jefferson Industry Pharmacists Organization (IPhO) is the only organization at Jefferson dedicated to spreading awareness about industry pharmacy, the roles of pharmacists in industry, and how to obtain postgraduate training in the industry. Pharmacists are universally recognized within the pharmaceutical industry as being the most professionally equipped individuals to contribute to the development, promotion, and optimal use of medicines. Typical events will include Fellowship Night collaborative events with SBG and ISPOR, and engagement with colleagues about their firsthand experiences in many different pharmaceutical industry departments and specialties. Other events include presentations from guest speakers as well as presentations on how to obtain a fellowship in the industry. All fulltime Thomas Jefferson University student pharmacists are eligible to become chapter members. Voting rights are lost upon graduation or loss of academic standing in the Jefferson College of Pharmacy. 

Contact Information

Organization Email: JIPho@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Roger Armen, PhD | Assistant Professor, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences | 901 Walnut Street, Suite 918, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 619-876-1135 (cell)

Membership Eligibility: Sidney Kimmel Medical College Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Jefferson Internal Medicine Society (JIMS) serves to promote and foster a true interest in the specialty and subspecialties of internal medicine. The Society focuses on the many facets of internal medicine in primary care as well as in specialty practice. Activities and events include regular meetings and seminars where interested persons are encouraged to consider internal medicine as a career choice, collaborative panels on primary care, and volunteer opportunities. The Society frequently sponsors keynote speakers who discuss their work with students, to help them gain a better understanding of medical subspecialties in internal medicine. We have also created a mentorship database for students interested in shadowing or conducting research with faculty. Finally, we work closely with our local chapter of the American College of Physician (ACP) to provide additional educational opportunities and networking. JIMS has been in existence for 20 years, and there are no dues or fees.

Contact Information

Organization Email: jims@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Sean Hurt, MD | Clinical Instructor, Department of Internal Medicine | 33 South 9th Street, Suite 701, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-2429

Membership Eligibility: All Jefferson Students 

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Jefferson Oncology Society (JOS) is an interdisciplinary student-run group that promotes education and involvement in all oncologic fields, including medical oncology, surgical oncology, and radiation oncology, for aspiring healthcare professionals. We host careers-in-oncology lectures and journal clubs, to introduce students to career paths and research topics in oncology. In addition, we connect students to ongoing research, and volunteer and shadowing opportunities at Jefferson, as well as to community service projects that promote awareness and support of all disciplines related to patient care in oncologic medicine.

Contact Information

Organization Email: jos@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Joanne Filicko-O'Hara, MD | Program Director, Combined Fellowship in Hematology/Medical Oncology, Department of Hematology/Medical Oncology | 925 Chestnut Street, Suite 320A, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-9504

Membership Eligibility: Sidney Kimmel Medical College Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The purpose of the Jefferson Otolaryngology Society is to introduce students to the art of otolaryngology – head and neck surgery; to expose students to the basic principles of otolaryngology research and patient care; and to advise students interested in the pursuit of otolaryngology as a career choice. Educational events include an introductory meeting aimed at increasing awareness of and sparking interest in the profession; a HEENT skills session; advice sessions with residents; and a match meeting at the end of the year to discuss application and match strategies with recently matched seniors.

Contact Information

Organization Email: jeffent@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Richard A. Goldman MD | Assistant Professor, Department of Otolaryngology | 925 Chestnut Street, 6th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 919-264-9022

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The mission of JeffPEDS is to promote the field of pediatrics among medical students. We want to hold events throughout the year to show different aspects of the field of pediatrics as well as advocate for pediatric issues in our community. We hope to have speakers from different pediatric fields throughout the year, panels of parents and patients, and volunteer events. We hope to be a resource for all those interested in pediatrics who need shadowing, research, or volunteer opportunities. Lastly, we are responsible for holding the post-match panel held at the end of the year.

Contact Information

Organization Email: jeffpeds@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Amanda Micucio, DO | Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Pediatrics | 833 Chestnut Street, Suite 300, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 904-477-9178 (cell)

Membership Eligibility: Sidney Kimmel Medical College Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The purpose of the Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Society is to provide Thomas Jefferson University students with information about the medical specialty of physical medicine and rehabilitation, and to organize lectures, clinical skills sessions, and student volunteer opportunities related to physical medicine and rehabilitation.

Contact Information

Organization Email: JeffersonPhysicalMedicine&RehabilitationSociety.svc@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Pikai Oh, MD | Instructor of Medicine, Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Medicine | 25 South 9th Street, 9th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 904-477-9178

Membership Eligibility: All Jefferson Students  

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Jefferson Physician-Scientist Association seeks to represent the interest of MD and MD-PhD students. Specifically, the Association seeks the advancement of translational medicine on campus by promoting interactions between student organizations representing basic science, patient care, and advocacy; providing a resource for Jefferson students pursuing research outside of a formal training program; and facilitating an interdisciplinary network of mentorship, community building, and mutual support for student physician-scientists. Members regularly attend monthly translational seminars, the MD-PhD retreat, and biannual guest lecture series.

Contact Information

Organization Email: jpsa@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Scott Waldman, MD, PhD | Professor, Department Chair, Department of Pharmacology & Experimental Therapeutics | Jefferson Alumni Hall, 1020 Locust Street, Room 368, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-6086 (voice mail), 215-955-5681 (fax)

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Jefferson Psychiatry Society (JPS) has been in existence for more than 19 years. The mission of JPS is to advocate for the importance of mental and behavioral health across all fields of healthcare, and to promote destigmatization of mental healthcare in societal and institutional attitudes. JPS provides behavioral health-related exploration to all students, and provides career and residency application guidance to medical students pursuing careers in psychiatry. JPS meets for organizational meetings several times per year, and offers a variety of events to promote our mission: lunchtime lectures from specialists, career discussions, mental health-related events, and activities dedicated to enhancing individual and community well-being. JPS hopes to create interdisciplinary connections and disseminate new and relevant findings within the field throughout the entire university and hospital community.

Contact Information

Organization Email: jps@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Mitchell J. Cohen | Professor, Vice Chair for Education, Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior | 833 Chestnut Street, Suite 210, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-8574

Membership Eligibility: All Jefferson Students

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Jefferson Urology Society is a student-run organization that provides medical students with the opportunity to learn more about the exciting and dynamic field of urology. The goal of the society is to promote interaction among students, residents, and faculty via informational sessions, research, shadowing opportunities, and charitable events. The organization also works to provide interested students with faculty mentors who serve as role models and advisors for students interested in pursuing a career in urology. Any questions or comments can be directed to our email.

Contact Information

Organization Email: urology.society@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Costas Lallas, MD | Professor, Vice Chair Academic Affairs, Associate Director Urology, Department of Urology | 33 South 9th Street, Suite 703, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-6961 (office), 215-778-2674 (cell)

Membership Eligibility: All Jefferson Students

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: JeffSAPHE (Jefferson Student Association for Public Health Education) promotes awareness of population health initiatives through local community service and campus activities. The goal of the organization is to provide information about activities and current events in public health, as well as provide opportunities for students to give back to the community and develop professional skills and knowledge.

Contact Information

Organization Email: jeffsaphe@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Katherine Puskarz, MPH | Lecturer, Assistant Program Director, Population Health, Jefferson College of Population Health | 901 Walnut Street, 10th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-4755

Membership Eligibility: Sidney Kimmel Medical College Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The John H. Gibbon, Jr. Surgical Society facilitates surgical interest, activity, and education at the medical student level via lecture series, clinical skills workshops, peer mentorship, and outreach. Members of the Jefferson faculty are invited to speak at meetings held periodically throughout the academic year. The John H. Gibbon, Jr. Surgical Society co-sponsors the Jefferson Organ Procurement Program and helps to organize the annual Department of Surgery Gibbon Grand Rounds Lecture. In addition, the society also co-sponsors the annual knot-tying and suture clinic for first-year through third-year students. The John H. Gibbon, Jr. Surgical Society has been in existence for 37 years. There are no dues or fees.

Contact Information

Organization Email: gibbon.society@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Renee M Tholey, MD | Assistant Professor, Director of Surgical Undergraduate Education, Department of Surgery | 1025 Walnut Street, Suite 602, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-0200

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees $0.00

Description: The purposes of this organization are to ignite student engagement in the cannabis space to create a community centered around education, Social innovation, entrepreneurship, forging relationships within the industry and advocacy. The Medical Cannabis Student Association at Thomas Jefferson University will foster discussions around the emerging cannabis industry through the coordination of awareness campaigns, information sessions, networking opportunities, events, and service opportunities. We will work diligently to educate and support our network of students by equipping them with the tools necessary to navigate the cannabis landscape. We hope to cultivate a student community that is knowledge-oriented, Socially responsible, and innovative.

Contact Information

Organization Email: MedicalCannabis@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Ruth Charbonneau, RN, JD, Associate Director for the Study of Medicinal Cannabis IEHP, JCHP, 901 Walnut Street, Suite. 1115 | 908-303-7614

Membership Eligibility: All Jefferson Students

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Medical Ethics Society at Jeffersom aims to bring together students from diverse programs to learn about and discuss ethics in an open minded manner. Through varied media such as journal clubs, talks, publications, podcasts, conferences, and more, we aim to bring medical ethics to the student body in an attempt to be more mindful of the complexities of the healthcare world around us. Through our events, we also aim to foster more open discourse about current issues and the future directions of medicine.

Contact Information

Organization Email: mes@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Brooke Worster, MD, FACP | Associate Professor of Medicine, Neu Center of Supportive Medicine and Cancer Survivorship | 1015 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-1888

Membership Eligibility: Sidney Kimmel Medical College Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Med-Peds Society of Philadelphia promotes opportunities for education and support for those students interested in combined Medicine-Pediatrics residency training in the Philadelphia area. The Society also organizes an advising session and serves as a point of contact for interested medical students.

Contact Information

Organization Email: med.peds@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Allen Friedland, MD, FACP, FAAP | Associate Professor, Internal Medicine & Pediatrics, Christiana Care Health System | 4735 Ogletown-Stanton Road, Suite 1250, Newark, DE 19713 | 302-733-2313

Membership Eligibility: All Jefferson Students

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: We're MedTech, a student-run program promoting and fostering interest in the intersection between technology and medicine. Events will range from seminars to hands-on workshops that highlight current and emerging technological advancements in various medical specialties. All members of the Thomas Jefferson University community (all students, faculty, and/or staff) may participate in any event that is sponsored by MedTech.

Contact Information

Organization Email: MedTech@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Nupur Nischal | Physician, Department of Emergency Medicine | 1020 Samson Street, Suite 239, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: $20.00

Description:

• To encourage study of communication sciences and disorders (CSD).
• To provide services and resources to students studying CSD.
• To be a source of information to prepare students and preprofessionals for practice in CSD.
• To provide leadership development opportunities and a vehicle for student representation in matters of professional concern (e.g., advocacy).
• To support the individual and collective interests of NSSLHA members.
• Spread awareness of SLP and the program at TJU.
• Collaborate with other professions at TJU.

Contact Information

Organization Email: NSSHLA@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor:  Dr. Patricia Remshifski | Chair and Associate Professor, Department of Speech Language Pathology | 901 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-2352

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The OB/GYN Interest Society is a student-run organization at SKMC that facilitates events focused on obstetrics and gynecology. Some of our events include physician panels, speakers, hands-on workshops, community service, and film screenings.

Contact Information

Organization Email: obgynsociety@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Abigail Wolf, MD | OB/GYN Physician, Director of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Vice Chair Education, OB/GYN | 833 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-1085

Membership Eligibility: Sidney Kimmel Medical College Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Pathology Student Interest Group (The Nutmeg Society) allows Jefferson students to gain valuable exposure to the specialty of pathology, with the hope that they will take advantage of varied opportunities to explore pathology prior to making career decisions. The Nutmeg Society facilitates events throughout the year, including shadowing pathologists, quarterly seminars, and providing information about local pathology events and issues. The Society has been in existence for five years.

Contact Information

Organization Email: PathologyInterestSociety.svc@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Joanna Chan, MD | Physician, Department of Pathology | Main Building, 132 South 10th Street, Suite 285, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Membership Eligibility: All Jefferson Students

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Philadelphia Human Rights Collaborative (PHRC) is a student-run organization with a mission to provide no-cost psychiatric and medical affidavits for asylum seekers in the region. In collaboration with Drexel and the Perelman School of Medicine, PHRC trains physicians to perform physical and psychiatric evaluations of asylum seekers, while educating medical students about the process of asylum and the role of healthcare professionals in the process. Students take a hands-on role by documenting evaluations and drafting the legal affidavit.

Contact Information

Organization Email: PHRC@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: James Plumb, MD | Professor, Director, Center for Urban Studies | 833 Chestnut Street, Suite 301, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-6340

Membership Eligibility: College of Rehabilitation Sciences Students Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The purpose of the Society is to provide an opportunity for physical therapy students to get involved in extracurricular activities both at TJU and in the community. The focus of the activities is on community service, health-related issues, and expanding knowledge of the physical therapy field. We have speakers come once a month to discuss their experience as a physical therapist or topics related to physical therapy. Participation is intended to enhance relations among the three classes of students and to further expose students to community health and physical therapy issues. Membership criteria include attending one organizational meeting, one educational event, and one community event per year.

Contact Information

Organization Email: ptsociety@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Kim Nixon-Cave, PhD | Program Director, DPT, Department of Physical Therapy | 901 Walnut Street, Room 522, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-1996 

Membership Eligibility: Sidney Kimmel Medical College Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: Ultrasound is not just for radiologists anymore! It is a REQUIRED part of training in emergency medicine, OB/GYN, and Pulm/Critical Care. It is also rapidly growing in many other fields, including surgery, internal medicine, sports medicine, family medicine, and pediatrics. As a low-cost, noninvasive imaging modality, Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) has utility for everyday clinical practice, underserved populations, and international medicine. Our POCUS group will provide instruction to all clinical students of Thomas Jefferson University (TJU). Events will be open to members of the Thomas Jefferson community. Our goals are to introduce students and members of the TJU community to the applications and approach of the quickly growing field of point of care ultrasound through lectures, hands-on guided practice, conferences, and mentorship.

Contact Information

Organization Email: pocus@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Kelly Goodsell, MD | Physician, Emergency Department at Jefferson | 1020 Sansom Street, Suite 239, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-6844

Membership Eligibility: Jefferson College of Life Sciences Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The P4 Society represents the student body of the Postbaccalaureate Pre-Professional Program (P4) in the Thomas Jefferson University community. The P4 Society organizes projects to engage P4 students in service opportunities, and supports P4 students by representing the student body in administrative and academic decisions.

Contact Information

Organization Email: postbac@jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Dolores Shupp-Byrne, PhD | Director of Pre-Professional Postbaccalaureate Program | Jefferson Alumni Hall, Suite 1112, 1020 Locust Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-6961

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The purpose of SIGN is to introduce and promote the field of neurology, covering both the clinical and research aspects, to students of the healthcare professions. Meetings and discussions are held, featuring faculty members, private practitioners, and residents. Information on residency programs and career opportunities is provided. Students may interact with faculty members through attendance at their patient clinics, Grand Rounds presentations, and laboratories. Members will be included in Department of Neurology functions, including conventions, seminars, and presentations of research. SIGN has been in existence for 20 years. There are no dues or fees.

Contact Information

Organization Email: StudentInterestGroupinNeurology.svc@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Lindsay Higdon, MD | Neurologist, Department of Neurology | 909 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-1222

Membership Eligibility: Jefferson College of Rehabilitation Sciences Only

Membership Dues or Fees: $10.00 Annually

Description: The purpose of the Student Occupational Therapy Association is to promote the development of leadership, cooperation, and the profession of occupational therapy through public relations, education, and social events. Members are invited to participate in a variety of social and educational programs, such as community service events, faculty networking events, career development workshops, and guest speakers. Meetings are held monthly and events are held periodically, approximately five events per semester. The Student Occupational Therapy Association has been in existence for 28 years. Membership criteria include being a student of the Jefferson College of Health Professions and paying annual dues.

Contact Information

Organization Email: sota@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Mary Muhlenhaupt, OTD, OTR/L, FAOTA | Associate Professor, Department of Occupational Therapy | 901 Walnut Street, 6th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-6947

Membership Eligibility: Jefferson College of Pharmacy Only

Membership Dues or Fees: $71.00

Description: The mission of the Student Society of Health-System Pharmacy is to make students aware of pharmacy practices in health systems; provide information to students about career directions and credentials needed for pharmacy practice in health systems; and to encourage membership and participation in the respective state, regional, and nation affiliates. Activities include monthly meetings with speakers from health-system pharmacy, a residency informational event, networking opportunities, a professional development project, monthly journal clubs, and much more.

Contact Information

Organization Email: SSHP@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Mary Hess, PharmD, FASHP, FCCM, BCCCP | Associate Dean of Student Affairs, Jefferson College of Pharmacy | 901 Walnut Street, 9th floor, Suite 901C, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-6448

Membership Eligibility: Sidney Kimmel Medical College Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Thomas Duane Ophthalmology Society is dedicated to promoting interest in the medical specialty of ophthalmology through lectures, programming, and volunteer opportunities for the Jefferson community, with the support of Wills Eye Hospital.

Contact Information

Organization Email: ThomasDuaneOphthalmologySociety@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Bruce Markovitz, MD | Clinical Assistant Professor, Ophthalmology, Department of Medical Education, Wills Eye Hospital | 840 Walnut Street, Suite 800, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-440-3172

Membership Eligibility: Jefferson College of Health Professions Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Thomas Jefferson University Physician Assistant Student Society (TJUPASS) aligns with the AAPA mission, the Thomas Jefferson University mission, and the mission of the School of Health Professionals in that we strive to become leaders in our profession through exemplary level education, community service, and lifelong learning, ultimately to enhance the lives of our patients and promote growth within our future profession.

Vision: The Thomas Jefferson University Physician Assistant Student Society recognizes the future of the PA profession rests on its current and future students. The society will act as a majority voice for the current class to bring forth potential areas of improvement within the program and the profession.

Contact Information

Organization Email: tjupass@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Timothy Besse, MAT, MPAS, PA-C | Assistant Professor, Department of Physician Assistant Studies | 130 South 9th Street, Suite 656, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The purpose of this organization shall be to provide educational opportunities in the fields of disaster medicine and wilderness medicine for Jefferson students. The organization shall provide didactic and hands-on learning opportunities, resource information, medical school rotation, and residency/fellowship training information in the fields of disaster and wilderness medicine. Individuals must attend one WDMS meeting or sponsored event per semester to be considered a member for that academic year. Members will be encouraged, but not required, to attend 50% of all meetings.

Contact Information

Organization Email: WildernessandDisasterMedicineSociety.svc@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Lara Phillips, MD | Clinical Assistant Professor in Emergency Medicine, Director of Wilderness Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine | 1020 Sansom Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-5850

Membership Eligibility: Jefferson College of Life Sciences Only  

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Graduate Student Association (GSA), formed in 1969, is a student-run organization committed to serving graduate students and improving student life at Jefferson. The GSA is open to all graduate students in the Jefferson College of Life Sciences (JCLS) and encourages participation from new students in our various year-round programs. There are countless ways to get involved with GSA, from attending and helping us plan events such as Welcome Month, to volunteering with GSA at the annual Philadelphia Science Festival.

Our goals are three-fold:

1. To engage graduate students beyond the classroom and lab in order to develop, broaden, and strengthen their professional skills and career goals.
2. To foster inclusive programming that celebrates diversity in the biomedical sciences and offers a safe space for graduate students to participate in student life as authentically as possible.
3. To be a voice for graduate students within JCLS, representing their unique needs and concerns by providing a link among graduate students, the Jefferson College of Life Sciences’ administration and faculty, and the surrounding Philadelphia community.

With these goals in mind, the Graduate Student Association plans programs in five areas:

• Academic Programming
• Professional Development
• Social Events
• Philanthropy and Community Service
• Science Communication and Outreach

In order to best serve JCLS graduate students, GSA holds monthly open meetings to deliver news and information and provide a forum for students. Our Facebook page, bimonthly newsletters, GSA website, and GSA calendar are all ways to stay up to date with the many programs GSA puts on.

We are always open to new ideas and feedback, and we can be reached through our GSA email, which is actively monitored. We look forward to seeing you at our next event!

Contact Information

Organization Email: gsa@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Lisa Kozlowski, PhD | Associate Dean of Graduate & Postdoctoral Affairs, Office of Postdoctoral Affairs | Jefferson Alumni Hall, 1020 Locust Street, M-46, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-5750

Membership Eligibility: Jefferson College of Nursing Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Student Government Association in the Jefferson College of Nursing (NSGA) is an important source of extracurricular activities for all students. Its constitution and bylaws are available from its student officers or faculty advisor. All students in the Jefferson College of Nursing are encouraged to become active in this organization. The board of this organization is comprised of: a President, Vice President, Treasurer, Corresponding Secretary, Recording Secretary, and two SNAP representatives. We do not have any planned events thus far, because we became a class as of May and the board was just elected in August.

Contact Information

Organization Email: NSGA.FACT@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Anne Mitchell, PhD, ANP-BC, FGSA | Assistant Professor, Jefferson College of Nursing | Edison Building, 130 South 9th Street, Suite 744, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-7929

Membership Eligibility: Jefferson College of Nursing Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The purpose of the Nursing Student Government Association (NSGA) is to provide a forum for student input with the goal of continued improvement of the nursing education at Thomas Jefferson University. NSGA facilitates communication between students, faculty, alumni, and the administration of the Jefferson School of Nursing. The Association provides the opportunity to promote the development of professionalism within the student body. The NSGA provides co-curricular educational experiences and facilitates the development of leadership and managerial skills for nurses. General meetings are held monthly during the school year. Board meetings are also held monthly. Activities include student/faculty community outreach projects, interaction with other disciplines within the university, and fundraising to support these activities.

Contact Information

Organization Email: nsga.traditional@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Maureen Kane, EdD, RN | Professor, College of Nursing | Edison Building, 130 South 9th Street, Suite 744, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-2710 (office), 609-432-0828 (cell)

Membership Eligibility: College of Nursing Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The purpose of the NSGA is:

• To facilitate communication between students, faculty, alumni, and the administration of Thomas Jefferson University nursing programs.
• To provide a forum for student input with a goal of continuous improvement of nursing education.
• To represent the nursing student body and serve as liaison in student interests.
• To facilitate the development of professionalism within the nursing student body.
• To promote co-curricular educational experiences and volunteer/community experiences.
• To facilitate the development of leadership and managerial skills for nursing students.
• To keep the nursing student body informed of practical, political, and educational issues relevant to the profession of nursing.

Our Mission: We improve lives through connection between the four components listed in the Thomas Jefferson College of Nursing philosophy statement: Person, Environment, Health, Nursing.

Our Goals: Our student government officers will promote campus activities, enhance morale, and foster the Thomas Jefferson learning experience. We plan to execute learning opportunities by collaborating with professionals in the field of nursing, as well as holding fundraising events for the needs of the campus and student activities. Lastly, we will develop volunteer opportunities and participate in community functions to promote the Thomas Jefferson College of Nursing.

Contact Information

Organization Email: nsga.abington@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisors:

Renee Bollenbach, MSN, RN | Assistant Professor, Department of Nursing | 2500 Maryland Avenue, Willow Grove, PA 19090 | 215-481-5419

Anita Fennessey, DrNP, RN, CNE | Assistant Professor, Department of Nursing | 2500 Maryland Road, Willlow Grove, PA 19090 l 215-481-5540

Membership Eligibility: Jefferson College of Pharmacy Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The purpose of the Student Body Governance is to enhance the pharmacy student’s experience both professionally and socially, and to provide a channel of communication between the student body and the administration and faculty of JCP. All members of the Jefferson College of Pharmacy are encouraged to engage in the Student Body Governance and the variety of programming throughout the academic year. The active committees in the Student Body Governance include the Social Affairs Committee, the Philanthropy Committee, the Professional Development Committee, the Committee on Nominations, and the Fundraising Committee.

Contact Information

Organization Email: JeffersonSchoolofPharmacyStudentBodyGovernance.svc@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Mary Hess, PharmD, FASHP, FCCM | Associate Dean of Student Affairs, Jefferson College of Pharmacy | 901 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-6448

Membership Eligibility: All Jefferson Students 

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The mission of Active Minds at Thomas Jefferson University is to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues through the creation of a campus where students feel encouraged to speak openly about mental health and seek help when needed. To help reduce stress on campus, Active Minds holds weekly yoga classes, zumba classes, and stressless fairs open to all Thomas Jefferson University students. In addition, we aim to educate future health professionals about mental health by hosting speakers to discuss their personal struggles and road to recovery, with such issues as depression, eating disorders, and substance abuse. Active Minds at Thomas Jefferson University has been in existence for four years. All Jefferson students are welcome and there are no annual membership dues/fees.

Contact Information

Organization Email: active.minds@jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Rose Milani | Project Coordinator, JeffHELP, Department of Psychiatry & Human Behavior | 833 Chestnut Street, Suite 210, Edison Building, Suite 2124 | 215-503-8184

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues and Fees: $5.00

Description: The purpose of this organization is to invite individuals to be a part of a community that practices American Sign Language (ASL) and learns about Deaf culture. All signing levels are welcome and are encouraged to come and learn together. If comfortable, members will attend Deaf community events in Philadelphia. Workshops will be conducted each semester for individuals to learn how to introduce themselves in ASL and hear from Deaf advocates/speakers. Overall, this organization aims to increase cultural competence through different awareness methods, such as speakers, workshops, movie nights, and games.

Contact Information

Organization Email: ASLDCA@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Mary Muhlenhaupt, OTD, OTR/K, FAOTA | Associate Professor, Department of Occupational Therapy | 901 Walnut, 6th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-6947

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: $5.00

Description: The Autism Advocacy Group is an interdisciplinary organization that promotes autism awareness on the Jefferson Campus to help students gain an understanding about autism. This organization provides trainings to Jefferson students about individuals with ASD. Other purposes of the Autism Advocacy Group are to increase interdisciplinary collaboration through having students from multiple colleges involved in the organization and to collaborate with organizations in the community to bring opportunities to Jefferson students for interacting and volunteering with individuals with autism, and to learn from these individuals. The final very important goal of this organization is to promote neurodiversity.

Contact Information

Organization Email: aig@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Roseann Schaaf, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA | Professor, Faculty, Farber Institute for Neuroscience, Department of Occupational Therapy | 130 South 9th Street, 6th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-9609

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Chinese Students & Scholars Association seeks to unite Chinese students and scholars at Jefferson; to help Chinese students and scholars adjust to their campus lives and new culture; and to provide them with comfortable environments and various opportunities to communicate and enrich their lives in the U.S.

Contact Information

Organization Email: cssa-tju@jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Yajing Wang, MD, PhD | Assistant Professor, Emergency Medicine | 1015 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-8895

Membership Eligibility: Sidney Kimmel Medical College Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: Citizen Physicians aims to provide civic education and engagement to students in the health professions. Citizen Physicians also emphasizes the importance of accessing government entities to advocate for patients and health professionals. The organization is strictly nonpartisan and encourages students of all affiliations to constructively participate, learn, and contribute. The organization aims to run voter registration drives annually, to host debate screenings during election cycles, and to invite local elected officials to engage with students. Membership is open to all Jefferson students.

Contact Information

Organization Email: citizens.physicians@jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Stanton Miller, MD, MPH, FACS | Jefferson Center for Injury Research & Prevention, Division of Acute Care Surgery/Trauma | 1100 Walnut Street, Suite 702, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-1016

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The purpose of this organization is to help increase diversity awareness among the Thomas Jefferson University community, to maximize student involvement in diversity issues, while contributing to the advancement of diversity within all Jefferson Schools, which include JSHP, JSN, JSP, JSPH, JCGSBS, and the Jefferson Medical College. This organization also strives to increase recruitment of underrepresented individuals within the health professions, through community service activities and the enhancement of alumni relationships. We strive to create partnerships with other student organizations. Another focus is to connect with local schools (high schools, middle schools, etc.) in order to promote the health and medical fields. Membership is open to all enrolled students at Thomas Jefferson University. In order to be an active member, members must:

1. Maintain good academic standing.
2. Attend at least 50% of all meetings held per academic year.
3. Participate in at least one community service event sponsored by the organization.

However, if a student wishes to discontinue their membership, they can submit written resignation at any time. We have collaborated with other student organizations, such as MedScouts and FutureDOCs, as we also strive to connect with local high school students as well. In collaboration with some of the other organizations at Thomas Jefferson University, we plan on holding events that benefit both the community and the student population, while at the same time promoting diversity and awareness. These events include a Diversity and Kindness Scavenger Hunt throughout the city, volunteering our services at the Hunger Relief Center, and providing an open forum with a diverse panel of Jefferson alumni to speak with students about their experience and knowledge.

Contact Information

Organization Email: dimes@jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Leigh Ann Hewston, PT, MEd | Assistant Professor, Physical Therapy Department | Edison Building, 130 South 9th Street, Suite 830, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 205-503-6015

Membership Eligibility: Sidney Kimmel Medical College

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Diversity Council’s mission is to seek participation and input from Jefferson students in bringing forth educational programs, events, and activities that foster cultural awareness and sensitivity, and celebrate diversity on campus, while also acknowledging the work that needs to be done in terms of diversity initiatives. In addition, it provides students with a safe environment to discuss and voice concerns. Events that we hold are the annual "Holidays Around the World" celebration, which is a school-wide student display of holiday traditions from different cultures, and Diversity Week in the spring. Additionally, we sponsor numerous lunchtime talks on topics related to diversity and inclusion throughout the year.

Contact Information

Organization Email: diversity.council@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Bernard Lopez, MD | Associate Dean, Diversity & Inclusion, Office of Diversity & Inclusion Initiatives | 1020 Sansom Street, Suite 239, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-6844

Membership Eligibility: All Members of Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The International Student Society aims to build a community for international students at Jefferson to connect and support one another. We provide mentorship opportunities for incoming international students and hold events to promote intercultural conversations.

Contact Information

Organization Email: ISS@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Mia Song | Assistant Director, Office of International Affairs | 1020 Walnut Street, 5th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-2800

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Asian Pacific American Medical Student Association (APAMSA) is a national organization that unites medical students interested in the health issues that affect Asian and Pacific Islander Americans. The Jefferson chapter strives to promote the well-being of Asian communities through direct service locally and nationally. Ongoing projects include APAMSA’s Hepatitis B Initiative at Jefferson, a lunchtime seminar series, and variety of health screening events for Philadelphia’s Asian population. Activities have also included notable invited speakers; dim sum; trips to the APAMSA National Conference in Las Vegas, NV, and the Hepatitis B/C Conference in Boston, MA; a Lunar Chinese New Year Celebration; participation in the “Expressions of Asia” program; and hosting the APAMSA Region III Conference here in Philadelphia, PA.

Contact Information

Organization Email: JeffersonAsianPacificAmericanMedicalStudent.Association@jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Monjur Ahmed | Clinical Professor, Division of Gastroenterology & Hepatology | 1025 Walnut Street, Room 906, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 304-633-1354

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Jefferson Christian Fellowship is a group that brings together all students who love Christ and are looking for a worship and fellowship environment. We meet weekly for Bible study, worship, fellowship, and group prayer. We also host events throughout the year in which we invite speakers who interrelate their faith with medicine throughout their careers.

Contact Information

Organization Email: JeffersonChristian.Fellowship@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Marshall Miller, MD | Adjunct Assistant Professor, Department of Family & Community Medicine | 33 South 9th Street, Suite 301, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-6680

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The purpose of the Jefferson Muslim Student Association is to provide services for Muslim members of the Jefferson community and to invite the community at large to participate in Islamic activities and celebrations, and learn about Islam. This includes holding weekly Friday prayer services. The Jefferson Muslim Student Association is also actively involved in educating healthcare workers on culturally competent care of Muslim patients. The Jefferson Muslim Students Association welcomes all members of the Jefferson community to participate in its activities.

Contact Information

Organization Email: jeffmsa@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Traci Trice, MD | Assistant Dean of Diversity, Office of Diversity & Inclusion | 833 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-7190

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: JeffLGBTQ serves as an educational resource, support, and outreach group, and as a social/professional networking organization for sexual and gender minorities, including gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and queer students. JeffLGBTQ is a university-wide organization, open to all students regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. JeffLGBTQ coordinates educational events and hosts speakers to increase awareness within the Jefferson community regarding LGBTQ life and health disparities; organizes community outreach and professional development; and fosters a social and supportive community for LGBTQ-identifying individuals and their allies.

Contact Information

Organization Email: jefflgbtq@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: William McNett, MD | Chief; Division of General Pediatrics/Special Babies Program, Pediatrics | 833 Chestnut Street, Suite 300, Philadelphia, PA 19103 | 215-861-8800

Membership Eligibility: All Members of Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: JeffSAMOSA fosters interest in and increases awareness of the South Asian culture at Jefferson. In addition, JeffSAMOSA provides a peer support group for persons of South Asian descent. The Diwali Festival is held in the fall and includes a cultural show to celebrate the Festival of Lights. Educational events include a lecture series revolving around the influence of South Asian culture on medicine. Other events include National Gandhi Day of Service, Bollywood movie screenings, and South Asian mixers. JeffSAMOSA also participates in Holidays Around the World and Expressions of Asia. The organization has been in existence for more than 20 years.

Contact Information

Organization Email: jeffsamosa@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Dr. Shruti Chandra MD, MEHP | Associate Professor, JeffMD Phase 3 Director, Department of Emergency Medicine | 1020 Sansom Street (1651 Thompson Building), Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-6844

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Jefferson Jewish Student Association (JSA) was founded with the intentions of:

1. Creating and sustaining a strong diverse community for Jewish students among all Jefferson schools while fostering a diverse and inclusive welcoming environment.
2. Sharing and explaining Jewish customs and beliefs to the entire Jefferson community.
3. Engaging students in meaningful community service programs involving Tikun Olam (healing the world).

To achieve these goals, the JSA connects students with the local Jewish community in Philadelphia, holds several Shabbat dinners during the school year, hosts lunch lectures pertaining to Jewish customs and/or holidays, organizes volunteering opportunities, and works closely with Jewish organizations throughout Philadelphia to connect with Jewish students at other schools across the city. JSA seeks to cultivate a warm pluralistic community and welcomes all students interested in Jewish life and culture, regardless of religious affiliation or observance, to participate in events.

Contact Information

Organization Email: jsa@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: David Abraham, PhD | Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, Department of Microbiology & Immunology | Blueme Life Sciences Building, 233 South 10th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-8917

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The purpose of the Louis Pasteur Roman Catholic Society is to bring those of the Catholic faith at Jefferson together to celebrate, study, and share their faith. The organization serves as a means for organizing people to attend mass together; hosts talks on the history of Catholicism, contemporary faith issues, and faith in medicine; encourages participation in faith events across the city of Philadelphia; and provides opportunities to serve the less fortunate in our community. There are no dues or fees; anyone in the Jefferson community of any faith or background is welcome to join and participate.

Contact Information

Organization Email: rcsociety@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Joseph Majdan, MD, FACP | Jefferson University Physician, Associate Professor, Department of Internal Medicine | 1001 Locust Street, 409B, Philadelphia, PA 19107 │ 215-503-4226

Membership Eligibility: Sidney Kimmel Medical College Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Student National Medical Association (SNMA) is committed to supporting current and future underrepresented minority medical students, addressing the needs of underserved communities, and increasing the number of clinically excellent, culturally competent, and socially conscious physicians. SNMA programs are designed to serve the health needs of underserved communities and communities of color. In addition, SNMA is dedicated both to ensuring that medical education and services are culturally sensitive to the needs of diverse populations and to increasing the number of African-American, Latino, and other students of color entering and completing medical school.

The goals of SNMA are:

• To serve as a credible and accurate source of information relevant to minority issues in the field of medical education.
• To encourage and foster the development of minority faculty in order to increase the presence of minority mentors and biomedical researchers in academic health centers.
• To evaluate and cultivate the necessary measures to eradicate practices in the field of health profession education that compromise the goal of providing quality education to minorities and women.

– From National Website

Contact Information

Organization Email: StudentNationalMedicalAssociation.svc@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Traci Trice, MD | Assistant Dean for Diversity & Student Diversity Programs Instructor, Office of Diversity & Inclusion, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University | 1025 Walnut Street, College Building, Room 119, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-4094

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Veterans Health Initiative (VHI) is unlike any other student organization at Thomas Jefferson University. More than 10% of the adult population in the US has served in the military. This includes 16% of adult men and 5% of adult women. It is our belief that this is an at-risk population suffering from healthcare inequity and neglect. VHI focuses on addressing the gap in medical education pertaining to the veteran population and their unique healthcare needs. We aim to do this by advocating for awareness of the veteran population in Philadelphia, advancing students' knowledge regarding their health needs, and arming students with tools to use in the clinical setting. Typical events hosted by VHI include lectures from guest speakers and Jefferson faculty who have served in the military or are experts in topics related to veterans health; panel discussions with veterans in the community; community engagement events; clinical learning experiences; and others. We believe that our message extends to all students at Thomas Jefferson University, regardless of past military experience or exposure. As such, all students are eligible to become members.

Contact Information

Organization Email: VHI@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Alec C. Beekley, MD | Professor of Surgery, Department of Surgery | 110 Walnut Street, Suite 701, Philadelphia, PA 19106 | 215-955-8813

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: Our organization focuses on medical advocacy and student education on health disparities in incarcerated persons. Correctional centers are often held to a lower standard of patient care or simply bypass regulations that would otherwise be unacceptable. This club hopes to educate students about bridging that gap and getting one step closer to healthcare equity in the future.

Contact Information

Organization Email: CHARG@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Sean Hurt, MD | Clinical Instructor, Internal Medicine | 33 South 9th Street, Suite 701, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-6180

Membership Eligibility: Jefferson College of Rehabilitation Sciences Only

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: Hands of Hope is the student-run, pro bono physical therapy clinic that operates out of Methodist Hospital in South Philadelphia. Students work under supervision of licensed physical therapists, to provide healthcare to the Philadelphia community members who do not have health insurance. This organization is open to all DPT program students who wish to give back to their community and take part in a hands-on learning opportunity.

Contact Information

Organization Email: handsofhope@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Stephanie Muth | Professor, Phyiscal Therapy Department | 901 Walnut Street, Suite 508, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-5360

Membership Eligibility: All Members of Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: Heart to Heart Origami is a student organization whose goal is to spread love for and through the art of paper folding by encouraging students to learn origami together, teach origami to patients in local care settings, and donate creations to local communities and organizations. Members have the opportunity to learn how to fold a variety of origamis, ranging from lifelike models to tessellations and more! Members can choose to learn from videos, diagrams, and other students, or simply fold for fun. We hope to impact positive change in the local healthcare community through the art of paper folding.

Contact Information

Organization Email: Origami@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Judith Larkin, MD | Pediatrician, Division of External Primary Care, Department of Pediatrics | 833 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103 | 267-593-8096

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: Jeff Cares for Kids aims to engage members of the Jefferson community with children with disabilities, both through direct interaction and shadowing experts in the field. Our mission also includes educating the Jefferson community about children with special needs. Activities include volunteering at the HMS School for Children with Cerebral Palsy and at the Variety Club afterschool program for children with intellectual disabilities, shadowing at Jefferson and the Cerebral Palsy Clinic at the Nemours Children's Hospital, and educational patient and family panels.

Contact Information

Organization Email: JC.4K@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Eileen Shieh, MD | Clinical Instructor, Division of Pediatrics & Rehabilitation Medicine | 25 South 9th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 302-651-5600

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: JeffHEALTH organizes an exchange program between Jefferson and the University of Rwanda. Jefferson students have the opportunity through the organization to travel to Rwanda and participate in research, shadowing, and community service, and to collaborate on projects with University of Rwanda students.

Contact Information

Organization Email: JeffHealth.svc@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Elizabeth Krebs, MD | Faculty, Department of Emergency Medicine | 2310 South Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19148 | 919-808-2702

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: JeffMentors pairs students from Jefferson's health professions schools with identified at-risk youth from the Honickman Learning Center and Comcast Technology Labs located in North Philadelphia. Striving to influence these children positively, JeffMentors seeks to provide leadership, guidance, and support through mentoring. We lead afterschool workshops at the Honickman Learning Center, supervise field trips to the Franklin Institute, and hold Career Days here at Jefferson to educate the youth on a potential path in medicine

Contact Information

Organization Email: jeffmentors@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Leonard Levine | Associate Dean, Student Affairs & Career Counseling, Clinical Professor of Pediatrics | 1025 Walnut Street, College Building, Suite 116, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-6988

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: JeffSOAR (Students Organized Against Rape) works to increase awareness and advocacy around issues of sexual violence through trainings, forums, guest speakers, and outreach to the campus and greater community. Areas of discussion include caring for patients following sexual assault, immediate and follow-up treatment, short- and long-term consequences of sexual and intimate partner violence, and techniques to reduce risk and identify violence. JeffSOAR commits itself to empowering people and recognizes that women and members of the LGBT community experience a disproportionate share of sexual assault and intimate partner violence. In support of Eve Ensler’s V-Day Campaign to end violence against girls and women, JeffSOAR holds a production of "The Vagina Monologues" and donates all proceeds to WOAR (Women Organized Against Rape), a rape crisis center in Philadelphia.

Contact Information

Organization Email: jeffsoar@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Abigail Wolf, MD | Associate Professor, Clerkship Director, Residency Director, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology | 833 Chestnut Street, 1st Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-1085

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: Youth Emergency Services (YES) is an organization that provides transitional housing, on-site medical care, and many other resources for young people in Philadelphia who are housing insecure. Residents live at YES (located in Spring Garden) for a few weeks to months until they are able to move on to more stable housing. JeffYES's mission is to establish positive relationships with the residents of YES. Each week, students in JeffYES travel to YES in order to create rewarding educational experiences for both residents and volunteers. We hope to provide an outlet for creative expression and to foster discussion among the residents in order to enliven their time at YES and encourage them to pursue their ambitions.

Contact Information

Organization Email: jeffyes@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Leonard Levine, MD | Dean, Office of Student Affairs & Career Counseling | 1025 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 l 215-503-6988

Membership Eligibility: All Members of Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: J-Jams seeks to improve the health and wellbeing of Philadelphia community members by sharing its music with those around us. Hospital volunteering, visits to the Philadelphia Senior Center, and regular concerts performed in conjunction with other musical organizations make up the bulk of our activity. Any instrument or voice at any level of proficiency is more than welcome to participate – audience members are always more than happy to listen!

Contact Information

Organization Email: j.jams@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Bruce Fenderson, PhD | Professor, Pathology/Biology | 1020 Locust Street, Jefferson Alumni Hall, Suite 217, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Justice for the Incarcerated Collective (JIC) is a student-run organization with a mission to provide Jefferson students with educational, community service, and advocacy initiatives for previously incarcerated or currently incarcerated people. In collaboration with the Institute for Community Justice (ICJ) in Philadelphia, JIC will help medical students gain an understanding of health disparities and the societal inequities from the carceral system through guest speakers and discussions. JIC will assist with ICJ’s ongoing project of working with currently incarcerated men and the wider Philadelphia community. JIC will also develop and deliver curriculum to formerly incarcerated people at ICJ and the youth in the local juvenile detention center regularly. There are no dues or fees required.

Contact Information

Organization Email: JIC@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Rosie Frasso, PhD | Professor, Public Health | 901 Walnut Street, 10th Floor, Philadephia, PA, 19107 | 215-503-8901

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: We’re Move4Health (M4H), a student-run health education and exercise class program. Move4Health conducts classes for older members of our community. Each class consists of 30 minutes of lifestyle education and 30 minutes of physical activity; both components are taught by students. Participation is low-stress and lots of fun! These classes run weekly except for holidays. Move4Health has been in existence for more than eight years.

Contact Information

Organization Email: move4health.svc@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Christopher Haines, MD | Family & Community Medicine | 833 Chestnut Street, Suite 301, Philadelphia, PA 19103 | 215-870-1486

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: No One Dies Alone (NODA) is an interprofessional volunteering organization. Our mission is to provide compassionate companionship for patients at Jefferson hospitals who would otherwise be alone during their final moments of life. Moreover, our service provides benefits to the nurses, friends, and family members who find comfort in knowing that their patient or loved one is not alone during this time. After nurses have determined a need for our services, volunteers, if available, can sign up in shifts of self-assigned length to be at the bedside of the patient. During our time at the bedside, we offer our supportive presence by reading books or poetry, playing music, and/or simply sitting with the patient. Volunteers receive training and are welcome to our regular seminars covering end-of-life care and related topics. We hold group meetings to discuss experiences and support each other. We welcome anyone in the Jefferson community to join our organization. There are no dues or fees required.

Contact Information

Organization Email: noda@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Kathleen Metchler | Assistant Professor, Attending Inpatient Palliative Care Service, Clerkship Director, Inpatient Palliative Care Rotation, Department of Family & Community Medicine | 1025 Walnut Street, Suite 401, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-2764

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The purpose of the Project Care Society is to:

• Help Jefferson students gain an understanding of the challenges individuals experiencing homelessness may face and what their pertinent needs are.
• Inform Jefferson students of the driving factors towards homelessness and the stigmas against these individuals.
• Actively discuss ways to curb these stereotypes and promote awareness of the lens against homeless individuals.
• Fundraise to create care packages to address needs for homeless individuals during the winter and summer months.
• Distribute care packages in groups of student volunteers to individuals across Philadelphia.
• Create connections with current organizations to donate packages in areas that may pose a safety risk for in-person distribution.
• Raise awareness of code-blue and code-red emergencies and the facilities in Philadelphia that individuals experiencing homelessness can access.

Goals: The short-term goals of this organization would be to facilitate an understanding of driving factors toward homelessness and the existing stigmas against this population through monthly discussions. Additionally, a short-term goal would be to inform Jefferson students about the details surrounding code-blue and code-red events in the city and existing locations where unsheltered individuals can go during these events. In order to prepare for these events, another goal includes fundraising biannually to address the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness during the winter and summer. Through fundraisers, care packages will be created to address these extremes in temperatures and will be distributed through groups of student volunteers. A long-term goal would be to create connections with existing charities to donate care packages in areas that would otherwise be less safe to distribute in person.

Contact Information

Organization Email: projectcaresociety@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Harish Lavu, MD | Professor, General Surgery | 1025 Walnut Street, College Building, Suite 605, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-4902

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: Refugee Health Partners (RHP) aims to be a model organization at Jefferson and a trusted health partner in Philadelphia. We achieve this by:

1. Training allied health professionals to practice competent and conscious refugee care.
2. Empowering refugees to be active participants in their own community and healthcare.
3. Fostering a culture of belonging, mentorship, and cultural humility with the Jefferson community.

Ultimately, our purpose is to empower refugees to have a greater role in their own healthcare by helping them navigate the US healthcare system and improve their access to care. To that end, we help refugees with many of their needs beyond acute medical issues, including assistance with insurance, bills, specialty care, employment, transportation, follow-up appointments, and more. Any Jefferson student is eligible to be a member of RHP, and can engage with the organization through a variety of yearly community outreach programs, including flu clinics, health fairs, English as a second language and health education classes, picnics with refugee communities, and partnering with refugee families to assist them with their healthcare needs. We also host educational talks for the Jefferson community throughout the year.

Contact Information

Organization Email: rhp@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Marc Altshuler, MD | Associate Professor & Associate Residency Program Director, Family & Community Medicine | 833 Chestnut Street, Suite 301, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-5561

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: RISE Philly (Remote Interpersonal Student Education) is a volunteer organization providing free virtual tutoring and mentoring to middle and high school students from under-resourced communities in Philadelphia. In particular, our goal is to provide longitudinal academic support for students identified by their teachers as at-risk of dropping out of school, as well as to offer all Jefferson students the opportunity to support our local communities through meaningful mentorship experiences. Our long-term goal is to decrease the high school dropout rate in Philadelphia. Volunteer tutor/mentors commit to weekly tutoring for at least six months so that students will receive longitudinal guidance during the academic school year. The recent transition to virtual learning in the School District of Philadelphia has only exacerbated the already deep inequalities in educational access and opportunities, and therefore we believe our mission is vital for students’ success now more than ever.

Contact Information

Organization Email: risephilly@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: James Plumb, MD, MPH | Professor, Department of Family & Community Medicine | 833 Chestnut Street, Suite 401, Philadelphia, PA 19103

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: Student Health-Workers Against Predatory Economics (SHAPE) is an educational organization open to all Thomas Jefferson University students. We are a new organization with the primary mission of helping to educate the Jefferson student body on the practice of predatory economics in healthcare, the history of these problems, and potential solutions. We seek to understand economic exploitation within healthcare in addition to its intersection with discriminatory power structures (racism, classism, sexism, xenophobia, transphobia). Throughout the year our events will consist of both peer teaching among the Jefferson student body, and panels of experts and speakers in various fields. Just as important as our educational focus, we would like to facilitate a social space to share stories, build relationships, and foster a feeling of solidarity among our members and the broader Jefferson community. 

Contact Information

Organization Email: SHAPE@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Bon Ku, MD | Professor of Emergency Medicine and Assistant Dean for Health & Design, Department of Medicine | 33 South 9th Street, Suite 3002, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: In the United States, diseases linked to unhealthy diet and lifestyle choices are the leading causes of death. Therefore, there is a need to raise awareness about nutrition topics among the general population, but more specifically among those in the healthcare field. The Student Nutrition Awareness Council (SNAC) aims to raise awareness of nutrition topics among all Jefferson students. SNAC will host several experts in the nutrition field throughout the year for a speaker series. These speakers will provide valuable insight into various nutrition topics. Additionally, SNAC will organize period volunteer days at Philadelphia-area organizations that are working to improve the health of the city through healthy foods and proper nutrition. SNAC is open to all members of the Jefferson community.

Contact Information

Organization Email: SNAC@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Daniel Monti, MD, MBA | Founding Director and CEO of the Marcus Institute of Integrative Health | 925 Chestnut Street, Suite 120, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-4410

Membership Eligibility: All Members of Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: Members of the Story Initiative write and illustrate personalized books for children in underprivileged areas. We hope to promote literacy and foster creativity in young minds. By reading stories featuring themselves as protagonists, children can build self-confidence, grasp valuable life lessons, and learn to dream big. Our group is open to all members of the Jefferson community.

Contact Information

Organization Email: story.initiative@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Alisa LoSasso, MD | Clinical Associate Professor, Pediatrics | 33 South 9th Street, Suite 300, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-861-8830

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Arrhythmias is a student organization dedicated to providing opportunities for women in the Jefferson community to sing and perform a capella music. The group performs regularly on and off campus, in events like SKMC Second Look or caroling through the hospital. We also participate in the Philadelphia Med School Charity A Capella Concert, and have hosted the event for the past several years. The Arrhythmias meet once a week for an hour and a half to rehearse and prepare for our concerts throughout the year. The Arrhythmias have been in existence for more than 20 years. We do not collect dues or fees from our members.

Contact Information

Organization Email: arrhythmias@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Marion Siegman, PhD | Professor and Chair, Department of Molecular Physiology & Biophysics | 1020 Locust Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-3975

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The purpose of Board Games & Beyond is to provide an outlet of wellness for Jefferson students to congregate and compete in a healthy fashion through a variety of board games. We aim to foster a sense of community among members with similar interests. Members are free to attend any and all of our board game nights throughout the year!

Contact Information

Organization Email: Boardgames@students.Jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Wayne Bond Lau, MD | Professor, Assistant Dean, Department of Emergency Medicine/Office of Student Affairs | 1020 Sansom Street, Suite 239, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-6988

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Bruce & The Fenderbenders Irish Jig Band is composed of students and faculty at Thomas Jefferson University who enjoy playing Irish-American folk music. Founded in 2010 by Dr. Aivi Nguyen (Class of 2014), the band features fiddles, flutes, cellos, and guitars. The band has performed for many events on campus, including Dean's concert, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Second Look Reception, Relay-for-Life, and Holidays Around the World.

Purpose: To provide an opportunity for Jefferson students and faculty to learn and play Irish-American folk music and perform at various university and charitable events.

Membership Requirements: Members must be able to play instruments that contribute to the Irish-American folk music repertoire (e.g., violins, acoustic guitar, bass guitar, drum). Members must perform with the group at least once per academic year.

Goals: To rehearse as a group once per month, and to perform as a group at least four times per year at events chosen by the group.

Contact Information

Organization Email: fenderbenders@jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Bruce Fenderson, PhD | Professor, Department of Pathology | Jefferson Alumni Hall, 1020 Locust Street, Room 217, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-2256

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community  

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: Cancer Awareness Prevention & Education (formerly Colleges Against Cancer) at Thomas Jefferson University is a chapter of the national collaboration of college students, faculty, and staff dedicated to fighting cancer, volunteering for the American Cancer Society, and improving college communities by facilitating and supporting programs of the American Cancer Society. Throughout the year, Cancer Awareness Prevention & Education hosts fundraisers and educational events that revolve around cancer survivorship. One of the most important tasks of the organization is the planning and hosting of Jefferson’s annual Relay for Life event. A major fundraiser for the American Cancer Society, the Relay for Life is hosted at many colleges and communities throughout the nation, to raise funds for both cancer research and current cancer patients.

Contact Information

Organization Email: cac@jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Colleen Dempsey, MS, RT(R) | Assistant Professor, Radiography, Department of Radiologic Sciences | 901 Walnut Street, Suite 708, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-9191

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: Coffee Bean Nuclei is designed to help Jefferson students learn more about all aspects of coffee and coffee culture, including coffee and caffeine in medicine. We explore the different aspects of coffee farming and sourcing, the ethics of coffee, coffee processing and the roasting process, and various brew methods.

Contact Information

Organization Email: Coffebeannuclei@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Leonard Levine, MD | Associate Dean, Student Affairs & Career Counseling, Sidney Kimmel Medical College | 1025 Walnut Street, Suite 116, Philadelphia, PA 19107

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The purpose of the Culinary Arts Society is to provide a community for Jefferson students built on passion for food, health, and cooking; allow students a platform to share recipes and meet other students with similar interests; provide an opportunity for students to come together for holiday celebrations; and educate students on healthy and inexpensive food options within the city of Philadelphia.

Contact Information

Organization Email: Culinaryartssociety@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Dr. Steve Herrine | Professor, Vice Dean, Sidney Kimmel Medical College | 132 South 10th Street, Suite 450, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-0704

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The mission of the Good Vibes Only Climbing Club is to:

• Introduce the sport of climbing to the Thomas Jefferson community.
• Teach the basics of climbing through peer teaching and collaboration.
• To make climbing more accessible to Thomas Jefferson students.
• To foster a sense of community among climbing enthusiasts at Jefferson and the city of Philadelphia.

What can Good Vibes do for you?

• Consistent climbing sessions with the opportunity for discounted guest passes.
• Weekend climbing excursions to local crags.
• Exclusive access to a discounted membership at Cliffs at Callowhill gym.
• And much more!

Contact Information

Organization Email: GoodVibes@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Lara Phillips | Clinical Associate Professor, Emergency Medicine | 1020 Sansom Street, Suite 239, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-6844

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: We are a dance group dedicated to improving health and wellness through teaching and performing dance. We have many dance rehearsals/practices, shows, and dance classes for the community.

Contact Information

Organization Email: invivo@students.jefferson.edu

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: JeffEARTH promotes sustainability on Jefferson’s campus through outreach and education, and by promoting horticulture as a wellness activity. We plan to accomplish this through educational events, service opportunities, and plant giveaways and workshops. JeffEARTH will enrich the Jefferson community by promoting sustainability, arts, and wellness. In the short term, we hope to inspire students to live a more sustainable life and understand the connection between a healthy earth and healthy patients. Through a variety of workshops, JeffEARTH will also encourage sustainability, creativity, and exchanging ideas among the Jefferson community. In the long term, we hope to create a community of students and staff who care about the environment and embrace a cost-friendly, sustainable, creative outlet.

Contact Information

Organization Email: jeffearth@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Scott Dale, MD | Assistant Professor, Emergency Medicine | Thompson Building, Suite 239, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-955-6844

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Jefferson Arts Organization was founded to offer Jefferson students, faculty, and employees the chance to express themselves through art. To accomplish this goal, this organization has targeted three main media: painting/photography, music, and writing. The Jefferson Arts Organization currently invites such artistic expression through two main venues: its journal, Inside Out, is a presentation of artwork, photography, short stories, poems, and essays in a unique arrangement that is published annually. Through cafe events, all members of the Jefferson community are invited to share their talents of music, dance, poetry, theater, and comedy in this biannual event, complete with an art exhibition. In addition, the Jefferson Arts Organization hopes to organize subsidized art classes taught by professors from local art schools.

All of these activities are designed to bring more diversity to the Jefferson community, to allow students and medical staff the chance to stop and reflect on their daily lives, and to provide a creative outlet for the rigors of school and work. Other projects include readings of works, art exhibits, and musical performances.

The Jefferson Arts Organization does not limit artistic contributions to members. There are many opportunities for involvement, including the editing committee; organizing performances; scheduling art classes; and recruiting artists, performers, and writers. Meeting focus varies depending on the area of interest.

The Jefferson Arts Organization has been in existence for 12 years. There are no dues or fees, and one does not have to be a member to contribute.

Contact Information

Organization Email: jeffarts@jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Mitchel Cohen, MD | Professor, Department of Psychiatry & Human Behavior | 833 Chestnut Street, Suite 210, Philadelphia, PA 19103 | 215-955-6592

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The purpose of the Jefferson Badminton Club (JBC) is to provide a friendly atmosphere for badminton players and anyone interested in learning the game, to meet and play with others in the Jefferson community. Everyone in the Jefferson community is welcome and eligible to join the club! The club has open play once a week (usually Saturdays) for experienced and nonexperienced players alike to enjoy competitive badminton and participate in tournaments for charity. Open play is also arranged for those without previous playing experience, looking to learn the game if there is enough interest. We will have a tournament once a semester! There are no dues or fees, and we provide all equipment. Sometimes we participate in community service projects as a team or team outings to build camaraderie. We look forward to seeing you on the courts!

Contact Information

Organization Email: badminton@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Guiyun Zhang, MD, PhD | Associate Professor, Department of Pathology, Anatomy & Cell Biology | Jefferson Alumni Hall, 1020 Locust Street, Room 263G, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-7019

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Jefferson Book Club seeks to foster intellectual growth among the members of the Jefferson community by hosting discussions of works of both fiction and nonfiction, medically related or nonmedically related in content. We believe that studying the humanities supports Jefferson's wider goal of creating humanistically minded students and future clinicians.

Contact Information

Organization Email: book.club@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Pamela Walter, | Director, Office for Professional Writing, Publishing & Communication | 1020 Walnut Street, Room 305, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-2828

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Jefferson Chamber Orchestra enables all members of the Jefferson community to play chamber music for both public and private audiences. The Chamber Orchestra has performed for weddings, cocktail parties, receptions, and private parties, including the SKMC White Coat Ceremony and Alumni Weekend. The group performs together at least four times each year at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital and as part of the Dean's Concert Series. The Orchestra has been in existence for more than 10 years. There are no dues, fees, or auditions, and rehearsals occur every two weeks on Monday evenings.

Contact Information

Organization Email: chamber.orchestra@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Bruce Fenderson, PhD | Professor of Pathology, Anatomy & Cell Biology | Alumni Hall, 1020 Locust Street, Suite 217, Philadlephia, PA 19107 | 215-955-2361

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Jefferson Soccer Club (JSC) is the official Thomas Jefferson University organization for those within the Jefferson community interested in playing soccer. JSC promotes weekly pickup games, runs an intramural league, and participates in the Philadelphia Professional Schools Soccer League (PPSSL) in the fall. The Jefferson Soccer Club also hosts social fundraising events in order to address team equipment needs and create a sense of unity among its members. All of the Jefferson community are welcome. Our mission is to provide a competitive yet fun, safe, stress-free, healthy, and positive environment, while helping all players (no matter the skill level, background, or age) to develop a lifelong passion for the game we all love, and build friendships on and off the pitch. In accordance with Thomas Jefferson University, the Jefferson Soccer Club strives to build meaningful interdisciplinary connections and teamwork across the many health education programs that Jefferson offers. Our goal is to learn to collaborate and cooperate outside of the classroom and work environments. On the soccer field, we learn to depend on each other, develop our communication skills, and work toward a common objective. We always walk on the pitch with the intent to win. The purpose of the Jefferson Soccer Club is to bring together those who are interested in playing soccer and competing in the fall outdoor Philadelphia Professional Schools Soccer League and indoor pickup games. Practices are open to all members of the Jefferson community. Indoor practice is held two nights a week during the academic year and one night a week in the summer. The intramural league is staffed and refereed by members of the executive board, providing a low-cost, safe, and competitive environment for both experienced and inexperienced players to enjoy playing the sport. The outdoor league consists of competition against other city medical and professional schools. Fall outdoor league games are held Saturday and Sunday mornings for 10 weeks. We believe that the JSC is an extension of the Health Mentors program. It continues the mission, goals, and values of the Jefferson community. We focus on interdisciplinary teamwork, and we believe that this club adds to that value. The Jefferson Soccer Club has been in existence for more than 15 years.

Contact Information

Organization Email: jeffsoccer@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Christopher Haines, MD | Assistant Professor, Department of Family Medicine | 833 Chestnut Street, Suite 301, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-870-1486

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The purpose of the Jefferson Volleyball Club (JVC) is to provide a friendly atmosphere for volleyball players and anyone interested in learning the game to meet and play with others in the Jefferson community. The JVC has open play once a week for experienced players to enjoy competitive volleyball, and participates in tournaments for charity. Open play is also arranged for those without previous playing experience, looking to learn the game if there is enough interest. The JVC has been in existence for 14 years, and there are no dues or fees.

Contact Information

Organization Email: JeffersonVolleyballClub.svc@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Guiyun Zhang, MD, PhD | Professor, Department of Pathology, Anatomy & Cell Biology | Jefferson Alumni Hall, 1020 Locust Street, Room 263G, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-7019

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The purpose of the Lumbar Disc Club is to foster relationships between students from different colleges at Jefferson and increase appreciation for ultimate frisbee and frisbee golf. Events include frisbee golf outings (usually 18 holes) and ultimate frisbee games. All skill levels are welcome. To become and remain a member of the club, you must attend at least one event per semester. Anyone currently attending Thomas Jefferson University can become an officer of the club.

Contact Information

Organization Email: Lumbardisc@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Elizabeth, Spudich, PhD | Assistant Professor, Pathology, Anatomy & Cell Biology | 1020 Locust Street, Room 263D, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-4967

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Lymph Notes are an organization at Thomas Jefferson University because we recognize there is a need for a gender-inclusive a capella group. Currently, there are two gender-exclusive a capella groups on campus. Singing is not tied to gender, sexual orientation, or race. Thus, the inclusivity of our group is the foundation of our mission. The Lymph Notes are centered around music and the joys it brings to a diverse community. We hope to arrange, practice, and perform a capella music at Thomas Jefferson University events and the greater Philadelphia area. We hope to create a safe and fun environment in order to alleviate stress and create camaraderie among Thomas Jefferson students across all schools.

Contact Information

Organization Email: lymph-notes@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Don Friedman, MD | Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine, Sidney Kimmel Medical College l 215-284-9718

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: As an internationally known 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a successful track record for change, Medical Students for Choice® (MSFC) stands up in the face of violent opposition. We work to destigmatize abortion provision among medical students and residents, and to persuade medical schools and residency programs to include abortion as a part of the reproductive health services curriculum. Today, one of the greatest obstacles to safe and legal abortion around the world is the absence of trained providers. Medical schools are simply not addressing the topic; most physicians graduate with little more than circumstantial knowledge of abortion. As medical students and residents, we work to make reproductive healthcare, including abortion, a part of standard medical education and residency training.

Contact Information

Organization Email: ms4c.svc@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Lisa Perriera, MD | Associate Professor, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology | 833 Chestnut Street, 1st Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19103 | 215-313-9874

Membership Eligibility: All Member of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: Medicine in Motion aims to reduce burnout in the healthcare professions and to build a more collective community within the medical field by promoting healthy lifestyles through group exercise and fundraising for medical research and charity. We plan on leading activities focused on promoting exercise and general wellness among students and faculty across Thomas Jefferson University. Events will range from informal group runs and virtual workout classes, to participation in organized races in and around the Philadelphia area. Members of the Thomas Jefferson University community (students, faculty, and/or staff) may participate in any event that is sponsored by Medicine in Motion.

Contact Information

Organization Email: medicineinmotion@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Jeffrey Ratliff, MD | Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Neurology | 909 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 610-547-4532

Membership Eligibility: All Members of Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The fields of psychedelic science and psychedelic-assisted therapy – not long ago taboo subjects pushed to the fringes of medical interest – are in the midst of a grand renaissance, with FDA approval and widespread dissemination likely to occur in the near future. With this being the case, there is a need to bring awareness of psychedelic medicine to the medical community, and educate healthcare professionals (both students and faculty) on the advances the field is making. The Psychedelic Science Society looks to fill this role by acting as an ambassador to psychedelic science on campus. Our mission is not only to give current and future practitioners an objective understanding of psychedelic medicine, but also to create a space where current and future research can be analyzed and critiqued. As an emerging field, there are still foundational questions to be answered and important decisions to be made, and these are all subjects our group will follow and discuss. We hope to achieve our goals through a variety of activities, including journal clubs, open-ended debates, outdoor experiences, and guest speakers. All current Jefferson students are welcome to become members. By advancing the understanding of psychedelic medicine on campus and beyond, the Psychedelic Science Society hopes to create better informed clinicians for improved patient outcomes.

Contact Information

Organization Email: pss@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Andrew Newberg, MD | Research Director, Marcus Institute of Integrative Health | 925 Chestnut Street, Suite 120, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-9070

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues: None

Description: The mission of the Rocky Balboa Learning Society is to foster a fun environment for students to develop their physical fitness while learning the principles of boxing. A strong emphasis will be placed on practicing these skills safely and in a way that minimizes any risk of injury. Cardiovascular health, increased strength, and a strong-willed fighter's spirit are all benefits of practicing the wide array of boxing techniques and drills. Boxing teaches its practitioners to persevere in the face of hardship, push past physical and emotional limits, and live with an attitude of continuous self-improvement. These are qualities invaluable to all walks of life, but especially to the medical field. The Rocky Balboa Learning Society is open to all members of the Jefferson community. No experience required!

Contact Information

Organization Email: Scholarsof.theSweetScience@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Wayne Bond Lau, MD | Student Affairs Dean, Emergency Medicine Faculty Member | 1025 Walnut Street, Suite 116, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-6988

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues: None

Description: Students for Life seeks to:

1. Unite Thomas Jefferson University students who share a passion for protecting and nurturing every human being.
2. Foster diversity of thought on campus as well as understanding, respect, and collaboration between people who hold pro-life and pro-choice views through dialogue.
3. Give witness to the beauty and dignity of all human beings.
4. Serve women, couples, and families in crisis pregnancy through increasing future provider awareness of resources, and working to expand resources and policies that support children, parents, and families.

Contact Information

Organization Email: studentforlife@students.jefferson.edu

Advisor: Joseph Majdan, MD | Professor, Director of Center for Urban Health, Department of Family & Community Medicine | 1001 Locust Street, Suite 409B, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-4226

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The Team Recreation & Expedition Club (TREC) is a new organization dedicated to serving outdoor enthusiasts. Our first aim is to create more opportunities to get outdoors, where we will streamline logistics for unofficial events and plan official events. Our second aim is to create a community for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy frequent social events that enable you to meet other Jefferson students with shared interests, such as hiking, skiing, and fishing. Through these aims, we hope to provide a means to improve physical and mental well-being. Any student is welcome to join, regardless of experience.

Contact Information

Organization Email: TREC@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Donald, Friedman, MD | Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine, Adjunct Faculty, SKMC

Membership Eligibility: All Members of the Jefferson Community

Membership Dues or Fees: None

Description: The purpose of The Testostertones is to provide all members of the Jefferson community with the opportunity to sing and appreciate all-male a cappella music, while giving members the opportunity to share their musical talents with one another and the community. The organization will serve to broaden the musical knowledge and talents of its members, while encouraging participation and creativity. The Testostertones have been in existence for many years. There are no dues or fees. An audition is required for membership.

Contact Information

Organization Email: testostertones@students.jefferson.edu

Student Organization Advisor: Richard Schmidt, PhD | Professor, Department of Pathology, Anatomy & Cell Biology | 1020 Locust Street, Suite 520, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | 215-503-7838