Lincoln Park junior recognized as Future Medical Leader

A Lincoln Park junior was recognized for her exemplary performance while participating in the Congress of Future Medical Leaders held in Boston last June.

Vayda Clark, junior dance major, was chosen for the three-day congress through her involvement with STEM, Math and Strategy Games clubs. She received a letter from Harvard University officially inviting her to attend the program.

Sponsored by the National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists, the Congress assembles the world’s greatest physicians, leading inventors, and medical scientists to mentor high-achieving high school students who are passionate about medical science.

Clark heard presentations from medical professionals and others considered to be cutting-edge leaders in the medical field.

One of the highlights of the program for Clark was hearing from Carmen Tarleton, a woman whose estranged husband blinded and disfigured her by dousing her with industrial-strength lye. A recipient of the world’s first full facial transplant, Tarleton spoke about facial reconstruction and shared her struggles.

“She was just really inspiring,” Clark said. “She talked about forgiving him, and how forgiveness comes first with forgiving yourself.”

Clark initially wanted to become an anesthesiologist, but after watching a live surgery, she said she plans to take it a step further and become a pediatric surgeon.

Clark is the daughter of Michael and Abbey Clark of Peters Township.