Benghuzzi, Ballard make HEADWAE

A faculty member and a student in the School of Health Related Professions recently were recognized by the state legislature for their outstanding contributions to education and academic excellence.

Dr. Hamed Benghuzzi and Merry Claire Ballard were honored during the 22nd annual Higher Education Appreciation Day – Working for Academic Excellence Program Feb. 26 at the Jackson Marriott. Seventy-two honorees representing 36 schools were recognized.

A native of Libya, Benghuzzi is chair of the Department of Diagnostic and Clinical Health Sciences in SHRP.

“I know that there are so many faculty members on our campus that are more than deserving of this prestigious award,” he said, “and I am humbled by the nomination and selection.”

A 15-year veteran of UMMC, Benghuzzi has had more than 300 manuscripts published over the course of 25 years. He has served as president of the Academy of Surgical Research and president of the Mississippi Academy of Sciences, among other outside professional roles.

The Department of Diagnostic and Clinical Health Sciences offers academic programs in clinical laboratory science, cytotechnology and clinical health sciences.

Benghuzzi said that he has seen a remarkable growth in resources for Medical Center students.

“I am so grateful to be part of the UMMC family and to the exceptional leadership at SHRP and UMMC that provide us with necessary tools to continue delivering excellence in education,” he said.

Ballard, a native of Cleveland and a third-year student in SHRP, is on track to receive her doctorate in physical therapy in May. She said helping and encouraging people throughout the rehabilitation process is what appeals to her about the profession.

“I love having the opportunity to establish a close relationship with patients as well as their families,” she said. “It also provides a great opportunity to educate patients on their health and wellness for the future.”

Ballard serves as SHRP student body president following a term as vice president from 2007-08. She also is a member of the Alpha Eta Society and the National Scholastic Honor Society for the Allied Health Professions.

Following graduation, Ballard plans to work in “a health-care setting where I can continue to learn and establish myself.”

The legislature established HEADWAE in 1988 to recognize outstanding students and faculty members at Mississippi’s public and private colleges and universities whose work has encouraged academic excellence.

-Matt Westerfield

2009-03-17 00:00:00 18873