Erin Kennedy

SDSU, in partnership with Avera Health, held the first annual Research Symposium in Brookings on Jan. 13. The event was organized by the Avera – SDSU Health Sciences Advisory Board.

“I believe the symposium laid the foundation for several collaborative projects between Avera Health and South Dakota State University that can enhance healthcare education and improve the health of citizens in the region,” said Dean Dennis Hedge of the College of Pharmacy.

The symposium was held at Shamrock Hall, with about 120 people in attendance. It included guest speakers from both SDSU and Avera Health. Topics discussed were the latest genetics technology, research and chemical technology and the Human Performance Research Alliance. There were also discussions on e-medicine and rural healthcare.

“The research symposium helped to bring to light and to highlight the research being done by SDSU and Avera Health and to explore more areas for their collaboration,” said Daryl Thuringer, director of marketing and public relations for Avera Health.

During the symposium, there was an opportunity for those registered to attend the breakout sessions of genomics, translational research, movement science and telemedicine.

“We have a wide range of research going on, from human genomics, behavioral health and pharmacology to exploring new and innovative ways to deliver medicine in a rural state,” said Thuringer.

The research symposium was sponsored by the College of Nursing, College of Pharmacy, College of Arts and Sciences and College of Family and Consumer Sciences.

Plans for a second annual symposium are already in the works for next winter. Next year’s event will possibly be held in Sioux Falls.