Marywood University Launches Remote Area Medical (RAM) Campus Chapter

Marywood University has launched a Remote Area Medical (RAM) Campus Chapter, giving students and faculty the opportunity to provide free healthcare services to underserved communities through RAM clinics across the region.

Remote Area Medical is a national nonprofit organization that delivers free medical, dental, and vision care through mobile, pop-up clinics. These clinics serve individuals regardless of insurance status, income, or identification. Many patients who attend RAM clinics have gone years without access to basic care.

Through the new campus chapter, Marywood students will be able to travel to RAM clinics alongside faculty, gaining hands-on experience while helping meet real community needs. Students provide care under the supervision of licensed professionals, allowing them to apply their training outside of the classroom.

Student Leadership Behind the Initiative

Talia Avia, a didactic student in Marywood University’s Physician Assistant Program and one of the founders of the RAM Campus Chapter, said her involvement with RAM changed how she views healthcare access.

“RAM opened my eyes to the realities faced by underserved communities and the impact that access to healthcare can have,” Avia said. “Seeing patients leave the clinic smiling after finally receiving care has been one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had.”

She added that starting a RAM Campus Chapter at Marywood reflects the mission of the PA Program. “It allows us to provide compassionate, patient-centered care, advocate for people with limited access to healthcare, and serve our communities while we’re still in training.”

Savi Chilana, President of Marywood’s Physician Assistant Program and Secretary of the RAM Campus Chapter, said the idea gained momentum quickly once students brought it forward.

“When Talia and Haley came to me with the idea, I was immediately on board,” Chilana said. “I knew Dr. Rebecca Kenderes was the right person to support this effort because of her focus on culturally competent medicine and rural healthcare.”

Chilana noted that her background in emergency medical services and her time living in the State College area influenced her commitment to the project. “This is about reaching people who may avoid seeing a provider for a variety of reasons,” she said. “I’m proud that State College is likely where our service will begin.”

Faculty Support and First Clinic Plans

Rebecca Kenderes, faculty advisor for the RAM Campus Chapter, emphasized the educational and service-based impact of the initiative.

“Being a RAM Campus Chapter allows our students and faculty to travel to RAM clinics, where students provide care to underserved individuals under the supervision of their own faculty,” Kenderes said. “Haley, Talia, and Savi were vital in building the foundation of this organization, and Alexa will also serve as an officer within the club.”

The chapter plans to attend its first RAM clinic on March 28–29 in Bellefonte, located in the State College region. The clinic will be hosted by the State College RAM chapter, where Haley and Talia first gained experience working with RAM.

Looking Ahead

The RAM Campus Chapter will continue to provide Marywood students with opportunities to strengthen their clinical skills while serving communities with limited access to healthcare. The initiative is expected to remain active for future cohorts, offering hands-on learning experiences that extend well beyond campus.

With the launch of this chapter, Marywood University reinforces its commitment to service, experiential learning, and community engagement.