WesternU Names Director of Clinical Rotations

Ronald Berezniak, PhD, has joined Western University of Health Sciences

(WesternU) as director of clinical rotations for the College of

Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific (COMP).

Dr. Berezniak previously was the associate dean for clinical education at

Nova Southeastern University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine in Fort

Lauderdale, Florida. Prior to that, he was the director of microsurgical

training and the microsurgical research laboratory at the University of

Pennsylvania, where he developed a microvascular training program now used

worldwide.

At WesternU, Dr. Berezniak will work to further develop clinical sites in

Southern California in an effort to place more medical students in local

rotations in their third and fourth years of study.

“”By keeping our students nearby we can maintain even better communication

between the school, doctors and the students,”” he said. “”This can only

enhance the educational process.””

Dr. Berezniak said he came to WesternU after learning about the

University’s humanistic approach and student-oriented philosophy.

“”I think WesternU is a school that has tremendous opportunities for

education, patient care and research. Everyone here is highly motivated

and student oriented; it’s the finest organization I’ve worked with,”” he

said.

According to George Charney, DO, FAOCA, FAODME, vice dean of COMP, Dr.

Berezniak is a welcome addition to WesternU because of the expertise he

brings to the campus.

“”His experience in clinical rotations and faculty development made him an

ideal candidate,”” Dr. Charney said. “”He already is proving himself to be

an asset to the University with his ideas for the clinical rotation

department. He has not hesitated to get involved and offer his input.””

Dr. Berezniak earned his bachelor of science degree in general science

from Bloomsburg State College in Pennsylvania, his master’s degree in

higher education from Glassboro State College in New Jersey and his

doctorate in science and health professions education from the University

of Pennsylvania. He holds memberships in the Society of Microsurgical

Specialists and Phi Delta Kappa National Education Honor Society, and has

received numerous medical education awards and research grants.

Dr. Berezniak resides in Alta Loma with his wife, Hilda. The couple has

four children, two of whom are studying medicine.