The Pulteney Street SurveySpring '25
Parallels
DR. DAVID RIZZIERI ’87, MBA, CPE
Agnes B. and Edward I. Weisiger Endowed Chair for Cancer Research, System Physician Executive, and Senior Vice President at Novant Health Cancer Institute
Clinical Professor of Medicine, University of North Carolina School of Medicine
M.D. from University of Rochester School of Medicine
Major: Biology
Hometown: Charlotte, N.C.
Describe the best aspects of research in three words.
DR: Improve patient experience.
EM: Collaboration, selfconfidence, application.
What qualities make for a good doctor?
DR: Passion for both the science and the art of medicine; compassion for patients; the ability to listen intentionally and communicate clearly; and respect for patients, team members and colleagues.
EM: Personability and the drive to care for others.
What was your favorite science course at HWS?
DR: Tied: genetics with Dr. Glover or physiology with Dr. Kerlan.
EM: Advanced organic chemistry with Professor Pelkey.
EMILIE MUSSI ’25
Pre-med
Interned at Diagnostic Radiology at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center
Co-President of Three Miles Lost
Member of HWS Emergency Medical Services
Studied abroad in Costa Rica
Major: Chemistry
Hometown: Liverpool, N.Y.
What are the main challenges facing the medical profession?
DR: The tremendous pressures that increasingly divert focus from “healthcare” to “healthcare financing.”
EM: The tension between profit and accessible healthcare.
What are some of the most important recent technological developments in cancer research?
DR: As a cell therapy and transplant physician, immunotherapy is the most exciting advance in the last 40 years. Also, our increasing understanding of the genetic changes in a patient’s tumor cells has allowed development of tailored regimens for that patient.
EM: CRISPR gene editing. It allows us to modify the DNA of living organisms and can be used to make edits in our genome.
Where is your favorite place on campus?
DR: Eaton Hall—lots of late-night study sessions with friends.
EM: The Gearan Center for the Performing Arts where I can express my creative side.
What is the best book you read in 2024?
DR: Undelivered by Jeff Nussbaum.
EM: Normal People by Sally Rooney.
If you could wake up tomorrow with a new skill or ability, what would it be?
DR: 100 unbroken double-unders in cross fit class so I am ready for the over 60 Cross-fit Open competition!
EM: I would love to be able to speak a second language.
What is your most rewarding accomplishment?
DR: Raising my children while balancing a rewarding career in medicine.
EM: Being a firstgeneration college student.
What motivates you?
DR: The pursuit of excellence.
EM: My family and the people around me.