Mission Statement
The mission of the Graduate Student Association (GSA) of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) is to promote a conducive atmosphere on the UAMS campus for the overall welfare of graduate students. The GSA represents the graduate students in campus organizations, and acts as a liaison between the Graduate School faculty and UAMS Administration to address student concerns. The GSA also promotes the graduate programs at UAMS and encourages the sharing of scientific research ideas among UAMS students.
2025-2026 GSA Officers
- President: Lokesh Akana
- Vice President: Jayden Carter
- Secretary: Finian Chimezie Nwadinigwe
- Treasurer: Wilberforce Twinamatsiko
- ASG Reps: Shegufta Neetole & Debasree Bhadra
President: Lokesh Akana
I am currently a PhD student in the GPIBS program, specializing in the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology track at UAMS. Additionally, I serve as the treasurer of the Graduate Student Association. My academic journey commenced with a strong focus on cancer research, culminating in a Master’s degree in Biological Sciences from Arkansas State University, Jonesboro. Eager to deepen my understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying disease progression, I seamlessly transitioned into radiation oncology at UAMS, where I am thriving as a promising young researcher. In Dr. Wolfe’s lab, my research focuses on studying the role of methyl transferase SETD2 in mediating signals of KRAS mutation inducing radiation resistance in colorectal cancers. This research has the potential to significantly advance our understanding of cancer biology and contribute to the development of novel therapeutic strategies. Outside of my research interests, I find inspiration in the simple joys of life, such as traveling, hiking, watching movies, and listening to music.
Vice President: Jayden Carter
Hi, my name is Jayden, and I’m entering my second year as a PhD student in the Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences (GPIBS), specializing in Cell Biology and Physiology. My research focuses on how cellular signaling pathways regulate skeletal health and contribute to disease. Outside of the lab, I’m passionate about science communication and creating inclusive, supportive spaces within academia. As part of the GSA leadership team, I hope to advocate for student wellness, improve cross-program engagement, and help strengthen our graduate student community.
Secretary: Finian Chimezie Nwadinigwe
Chimezie Finian Nwadinigwe serves as the Secretary of the Graduate Student Association. He brings a diverse academic background, including a Bachelor of Pharmacy from India, a Master of Public Health Program (M.K.M) from Indonesia, and currently a PhD student in the Pharmaceutical Sciences program at the college of pharmacy with a focus on development of small molecule inhibitors & tools indicated in DNA repair processes and resistance in Dr. Jones laboratory. He brings to the role years of leadership experience, having founded several student-led initiatives, including a campus-based NGO and international student government and support networks. His passion for student advocacy, academic excellence, and global health drives his commitment to building a more inclusive, engaged, and empowered graduate community.
Treasurer: Wilberforce Twinamatsiko
Wilberforce Twinamatsiko is a PhD student in the Health Systems and Services Research program at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health. With over a decade of experience in public health and international development, Wilberforce brings a strong background in research and leadership across diverse settings. He currently serves as a graduate assistant on a project that focuses on Understanding Variation in ADHD-Related Healthcare Utilization Among Kindergarteners in Arkansas where he supports data analysis using linked educational and healthcare claims data. His interests include healthcare policy, equity in access to care, and systems-level performance improvement. As a member of the GSA Executive Committee, Wilberforce hopes to strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration among graduate students and advocate for resources that support academic success and student well-being.
ASG Representative: Shegufta Tasneem Neetole
Hey. I am Shegufta. I will begin my third year as a PhD student in Fall 2025. I am from the GPIBS track. My department is Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, but my lab is in the Physiology and Cell Biology department. I love to talk with people. That’s why I always tried to join every GSA meeting or program. As an ASG representative, I will try to communicate with more people and make the connection between GSA and ASG.
ASG Representative: Debasree Bhadra
Debasree is currently a PhD student in the GPIBS program focusing on Pharmacology, Toxicology and Experimental Therapeutics track in UAMS. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in pharmacy in 2019 and 2022, respectively, at Khulna University in Bangladesh. She then spent a year working in the pharmaceutical industry developing and validating analytical methods to analyze raw materials used in drug manufacturing and testing purity of formulated batches to support clinical trials. During this time, she gained expertise in analytical chemistry and clinical drug testing. Her current research focus is on exploring the mechanisms of drug-induced liver toxicity and a better treatment strategy for acute liver failure patients in Dr. McGill’s lab. Beyond the research, she is keen interested in traveling, watching movies and listening music.
Former GSA Executive Committee Members
| 2024-2025 | |
| Reham Sewilam | President |
| Ravi Upadhyay | Vice-President |
| Sanjay Adhikary | Secretary |
| Lokesh Akana | Treasurer |
| Gretchen Holtgrefe | ASG Representative |
| Todd Spears | ASG Representative |
| 2023-2024 | |
| MD Mohsin Ali | President |
| Shahed Sufian | Vice-President |
| Taiquitha “Tai” Robins | Secretary |
| Isabelle Okito | Treasurer |
| Reham Sewilam | ASG Representative |
| Sudip Panday | ASG Representative |
| 2022-2023 | |
| Jewel Banik | President |
| Kalee Holloway | Vice-President |
| MD Mohsin Ali | Secretary |
| Lydia Famuyide | Treasurer |
| Mason McCrury | ASG Representative |
| Alexa Escapita | ASG Representative |