MS-RSM Graduation Celebration: Honoring Excellence in Reproductive Science
The Simpson Querrey Auditorium was filled with excitement and pride as the Master of Science in Reproductive Science and Medicine (MS-RSM) program celebrated the graduation of 11 outstanding students. These graduates now officially join the community of accomplished professionals in the field, marking a major milestone in both their academic and professional journeys. 
A Walk Down Memory Lane - The celebration began with a heartfelt photo slideshow capturing the memorable moments shared throughout the graduates’ time in the program. Laughter and nostalgia filled the room as images reflected the spirit of the MS-RSM journey, students collaborating on inspiring projects, celebrating breakthroughs in the lab, and building lasting friendships. The ceremony officially began with a warm and welcoming address from Dr. Francesca Duncan, Director of MS-RSM and Co-Director of the Center for Reproductive Science, who opened the evening by highlighting the significance of the occasion and celebrating the collective accomplishments of the MS-RSM community. Before the program’s highest honors were conferred, the MS-RSM Rising Scholar Honor was presented to two exceptional students: Brianna Ramirez (non-thesis track) and Ibtihaj Khan (thesis track). Dr. Giulia Vigone, PhD, presented these awards, recognizing both students for their academic promise, dedication, and meaningful contributions to the MS-RSM community.
Distinguished Guests and Special Recognition - The event was honored by the presence of esteemed members of the Center for Reproductive Science, who gathered to support and celebrate the graduates. Among the distinguished guests was Dr. T. Rajendra Kumar, whose presence added special significance to the occasion. A highlight of the evening was the conferral of the prestigious Makowski Award to Anika Schipma, MS. Mentored by Dr. Monica Laronda, Anika was recognized for her exceptional contributions and dedication, highlighted by her thesis titled "Engineering 3D Testicular Tubules to Support In Vitro Spermatogenesis." Following the award presentation, Anika delivered a compelling presentation on her research, impressing the audience with her scientific insight and passion for advancing reproductive biology.
The celebration continued with the conferral of the Teresa K. Woodruff Award to Jenna Epstein, MS. Under the mentorship of Dr. Pamela Monahan and Dr. Lindsey Block, Jenna was honored for her outstanding work in the program. She captivated attendees with her presentation on the non-thesis research project titled "Unwrapping the Effects of Polyethylene Nanoplastic Exposure on Human BeWo Cytotrophoblasts." Her presentation exemplified the curiosity, dedication, and excellence that define the MS-RSM community.
A Joyous Gathering and Special Tribute - Following the ceremony, graduates, their families, friends, peers, and members of the CRS community gathered for a festive reception. This joyful gathering offered a wonderful opportunity to reconnect, share stories, and celebrate the achievements of the MS-RSM Class of 2025 in an atmosphere filled with warmth, inspiration, and togetherness. Adding to the special occasion, the MS-RSM community also took a heartfelt moment to celebrate Father’s Day. The presence of fathers in the audience was acknowledged and honored, adding another layer of meaning and joy to an already memorable evening.
Looking Forward - The MS-RSM Graduation Celebration was more than a ceremony; it was a tribute to the graduates’ perseverance, purpose, and passion for reproductive science. As they take their next steps toward their bright future, the entire community stands behind them with pride and encouragement. Congratulations to the MS-RSM Class of 2025! The future of reproductive science is in good hands.
Thesis Track Graduates
Taylor Hicks, MS (top row, 2nd from left)
Thesis Title: "Utilizing large-scale, high-content chemical screening to discover chemical modulators to target MED12 mutant uterine fibroids"
Mentor: Mazhar Adli, PhD
Bria King, MS (top row, 2nd from right)
Thesis Title: "Do BRCA mutations effect ovarian stimulation and embryo morphokinetics?"
Mentor: MaryEllen Pavone, MD
Maddie Perry, MS (top row, furthest left)
Thesis Title: "Dysregulated corpus luteumregression contributes to multi-nucleated giant cellformation with advanced reproductive age"
Mentor: Aubrey Converse, PhD
Natasha Salpeter, MS (top row, furthest right)
Thesis Title: "Modulation of ovarian gene expression using adeno-associated viruses"
Mentor: Elnur Babayev, MD
Anika Schipma, MS (front row, 2nd from right)
Thesis Title: “Troughs, Tubules, and the Testis: Engineering 3D Testicular Tubules to Support in vitro Spermatogenesis”
Mentor: Monica Laronda, PhD
Janavi Thyagraj, MS (front row, 3rd from left)
Thesis Title: "Establishment of adrenal cortex-like aggregates from human induced pluripotent stemcells that produce adrenal hormones"
Mentor: Monica Laronda, PhD
Non-Thesis Track Graduates
Jenna Epstein, MS (front row, furthest left)
Project Title: "Failure to Fuse? The Effect of Polyethylene Nanoplastic Exposure on BeWo Cytotrophoblast Syncytialization"
Wyvern Wang, MS (front row, furthest right)
Project Title: "To Divide or Not to Divide? Investigating PE-NP Effects on BeWo CytotrophoblastProliferation and Apoptosis"
Samantha Exner, MS (front row, center)
Project Title: "Effects of Polyethylene Nanoplastic Exposure on BeWo Cell Viability and Function"
Helen Montague, MS (front row, 3rd from right)
Project Title: "Tracking Trouble: Uptake of PolyethyleneNanoplastics by BeWo Cytotrophoblast Cells"
Brianna Ramirez, MS (front row, 2nd from left)
Project Title: "Small Plastics, Big Problems? The Impact of Polyethylene Nanoplastic Exposure on Proliferation and Oxidative Stress in Human BeWo Cytotrophoblasts"
Mentors: Pamela Monahan, PhD and Lindsey Block, PhD