Michael Samaan (left) and Mary Sheppard (center) prepare for the study in the UK Biodynamics Lab with graduate assistant Walter Menke (right).
LEXINGTON, Ky. (Jan. 14, 2021) Researchers at the University of Kentucky have received a $100,000 grant from The Marfan Foundation to assess how patients with Marfan syndrome develop hip pain.
The study will be conducted by Mary Sheppard, an assistant professor of family medicine and surgery in the UK College of Medicine, and Michael Samaan, an assistant professor of biomechanics in the UK College of Education Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion.
Marfan syndrome is a genetic condition that impacts the body’s connective tissue. It most frequently affects the heart, blood vessels, eyes and bones. Diagnostic features can include a dilated aorta; dislocated lens; long arms, legs and fingers; a curved spine; a chest that sinks in or sticks out; flat feet; and an abnormally shaped hip joint, among others.
Recently, I was grateful to have a conversation with Dr. Stephanie White, associate dean of diversity and inclusion for the UK College of Medicine. Dr. White joined the University of Kentucky in January 2020, and she is currently a member of the DEI Leadership Team.
Can you tell me about your background?
I grew up in Fresno, California. Both of my parents were in the National Guard, and my brother and I grew up in the country on a raisin farm. My dad continues to produce raisins for Sun Maid.
My entire upbringing was colored with my parents trying to provide opportunities that they didn’t have. My mom wanted to provide varied educational opportunities and advocated for us to go to school closer to her work. I vividly remember the letters petitioning the school board to allow us to attend school in a different district. There was always an underlying demonstration of advocacy that she provided at different levels.