Meet the CAA Class of 2027

The College of Graduate Studies Master of Medical Science in Anesthesia (M.M.Sc.A.) program welcomed its newest cohort in January. The 18 members of the Class of 2027 will spend the next two years training to become Certified Anesthesiologist Assistants (CAA). The new class will officially be welcomed to NEOMED and the health care professions with a White Coat Ceremony on Friday, Feb. 21, in the NEW Center Ballroom.

The Pulse spoke with several members of the Class of 2027 to learn why they are committed to a career in health care. Here’s what they had to say:

ANDREW CLARK
Boardman, Ohio

“A career in health care allows me to constantly improve myself each day, whether that be through learning new anesthesia techniques or being introduced to other life perspectives from patients or other providers. Ultimately, I am grateful to have the opportunity to improve individuals’ quality of life and build small connections and relationships with patients during their procedures.”

OLUEBUBE “CHUCK” NDUKA
Charlotte, North Carolina

“My passion to help individuals who are at a vulnerable moment due to an illness regain their maximal function and return to being positive contributors to the society is one of my inspirations that led me to pursue a career in health care.” 

ATHENA POULLAS
Canfield, Ohio

“Growing up with both of my parents in the medical field, I was taught what it truly means to put the needs of others above your own. I have always been drawn to the medical field for this very reason. I want to be able to provide comfort to people in the most vulnerable moments of their lives. I too have been faced with many adversities throughout my life and simple want to do what I can to help others through similar experiences.”

JOHN RIEWE
Hilliard, Ohio

“What inspired me to go into health care was experiencing the feeling of building trust in patients with such little time to do it and putting their lives in your hands with procedures that could change their lives for the better. That feeling truly cannot be replicated in any other place than in health care.”

KARISSA TRINGHESE
Columbiana, Ohio

“My personal experience as a patient inspired me to pursue a career that would enable me to be a beacon of hope and light for others in their most vulnerable moments.”

CAA Week is February 17-21! According to the American Association of Anesthesiologist Assistants (AAAA), CAA Week is the national week of recognition for the CAA profession. It's a chance to help patients, hospital administrators, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and anesthesiologists to gain a greater understanding and appreciation of CAAs' work.  Learn more.