Announcing the recipients of our 2024 Health Equity Leadership & Social Justice Award for Hispanic Heritage Month. After careful consideration and evaluation by our esteemed panel, selected individuals who have demonstrated outstanding dedication to improving our community, and excellence in their respective fields. Without further ado, please join us in congratulating the following recipients:

At Temple Health, we couldn’t be more grateful to those who have served our country, and we know how lucky we are to have so many veterans on our team. That’s why, on November 11th, we celebrated Veterans Day with cupcake giveaways across the Health System. It was a sweet (toothed) way to say, “Thank you for your service,” and to let our veterans know just how much they’re appreciated!

Dear Faculty, Staff and Students,  

We are pleased to announce that Christine Mount, MS, PA-C, has been appointed Assistant Dean for Adjunct Faculty, effective November 1, 2024. Christine will continue in her role as Director of the Physician Assistant Program, where she has led the program since 2017 with outstanding success, including earning full accreditation by the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, Inc.  

Since joining Temple in 2016, Christine has been a key member of our faculty, and also currently serves as an Associate Professor of Biomedical Education and Data Science. Under her leadership, the PA program has flourished, preparing students to deliver compassionate, patient-centered care. Her dedication to excellence has made a lasting impact on our students and the program as a whole.  

In her new role in the Office of Faculty Affairs, Christine will oversee the development and support of all adjunct faculty at Katz, fostering professional relationships, facilitating onboarding and ensuring compliance with relevant standards. She will play a critical role in engaging adjunct faculty across our campuses and clinical affiliates, supporting their growth and integration into our academic mission.  

Please join me in congratulating Christine on this well-earned appointment.  

Sincerely,

Amy J. Goldberg, MD, FACS
The Marjorie Joy Katz Dean
Lewis Katz School of Medicine

Dear Faculty, Staff and Students,  

We are pleased to announce that Victor Rizzo, PhD has been appointed as the permanent Associate Dean of Graduate Studies at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine, effective November 1. Dr. Rizzo has served as Interim Associate Dean since September 2023, and his leadership during this period has strengthened the Graduate Studies program, fostering a collaborative environment for students and faculty alike.  

Since joining Katz in 2004, Dr. Rizzo has made significant contributions to the school's research and education missions. As a member of the Cardiovascular Research Center, Dr. Rizzo received funding from the NIH, AHA and other agencies for his original research. As a Professor in the Dept. Of Biomedical Education and Data Sciences, Dr. Rizzo has instructed students in many of our professional programs. His expertise and dedication to biomedical sciences and student mentorship have been integral to his success, making him a natural fit for this expanded role.  

As Associate Dean, Dr. Rizzo will oversee the registration, curriculum coordination, and academic progress of MS and PhD students, ensuring the highest standards of education. Dr. Rizzo will also manage the MD/PhD Program in partnership with the Programs Director, all while continuing his active involvement in graduate student teaching, advisement, faculty collaborations, and research initiatives.  

Dr. Rizzo’s commitment to excellence and his passion for mentoring students will continue to guide our Graduate Studies program toward further growth and success. We look forward to the impact he will have in shaping the future of our graduate education. Please join us in congratulating Dr. Rizzo on his well-deserved appointment! 

Sincerely,

Amy J. Goldberg, MD, FACS
The Marjorie Joy Katz Dean
Lewis Katz School of Medicine