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Orlando VA Healthcare System Inaugurates State-of-the-Art Research and Academic Center

Research Ribbon Cutting
Photo taken by: Scott Webb, Medical Media Lead, OVAHCS Pictured in photo from left to right: Dr. Michelle Petrovic, Anesthesiologist; Dr. Lisa Zacher, OVAHCS Chief of Staff; Chaplain James Stewart; Dr. Adam Golden, OVAHCS Associate Chief of Staff for Research; Mr. Timothy J. Cooke, OVAHCS Director/CEO; Dr. Jennifer Thompson, Associate Chief of Staff of Education; Dr. Dashielle Febo, OVAHCS Audiologist; Mr. Eric Bruns, SimVet Center Director; and Dr. Shamol Williams, OVAHCS Academic Physician for Education
By Melanie Thomas, Public Affairs Officer

In a significant stride towards advancing Veteran healthcare and medical research, the Orlando VA Healthcare System (OVAHCS) celebrated the grand opening of its new Research and Academic Center on June 28, 2024.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the beginning of a new era in Veteran healthcare, education, and innovative medical research. The event was attended by a distinguished assembly of Veterans, healthcare professionals, community leaders, and government officials. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and optimism as Dr. Adam Golden, the Associate Chief of Staff for Research at the OVAHCS, highlighted the center's mission and future impact. 

"This center represents our unwavering commitment to providing the highest standard of care for Veterans in Central Florida," said Dr. Golden. "It will serve as a hub for groundbreaking research, advanced medical training, and the development of innovative treatments that will benefit Veterans and the broader medical community." 

The new facility aims to bridge the gap between clinical practice and academic research, ensuring that Veterans receive the most effective and up-to-date treatments available. 

Additionally, the Research and Academic Center will provide space and resources for outpatient clinical trials, tissue and blood storage capabilities, more office and storage space, a beautiful Veteran-centric environment, a participant lounge and more!

Mr. Timothy J. Cooke, Director/CEO for the OVAHCS emphasized the importance of the new center’s focus.

"Veterans have given so much for our country,” said Cooke. “It's our duty to invest in research that will improve their quality of life and address their specific healthcare needs." 

The facility will also serve as a critical resource for the academic community, offering collaborative opportunities with universities and research institutions. 

The ribbon-cutting ceremony concluded with a tour of the facility, where attendees were able to see firsthand the advanced technology and innovative design that make the center a beacon of progress in Veteran healthcare. 

As the Orlando VA Healthcare System embarks on this new journey, it stands as a testament to the power of dedication, innovation, and community collaboration. 

“The Research and Academic Center is not just a building; it is a promise to Veterans that their health and well-being are of utmost priority, today and in the future,” said Cooke.