04/30/2026
The Owosso Rotary Club was honored to have two very distinguished guests at their meeting Wednesday. Read more about their crucial work below and think of joining our club to help create amazing change here and around the world.
Owosso Rotary Club Supports Ukrainian Medical Leaders with $2,500 Donation for Advanced Training
OWOSSO, Mich. — The Owosso Rotary Club recently welcomed two distinguished international guests while reaffirming its commitment to global humanitarian efforts. During its Wednesday meeting, the club hosted Ukrainian healthcare professionals Mykhaylo Korda and Oksana Shevchuk, who are in Michigan for specialized training through a partnership with the University of Michigan.
To support their mission, the Owosso Rotary Club presented a $2,500 donation to assist with their participation in the program—an initiative focused on strengthening healthcare education and infrastructure in war-affected Ukraine.
Korda and Shevchuk are working to advance the development of teaching hospitals in their home country, where the healthcare system faces extraordinary strain. Since 2022, Ukraine has experienced more than 2,500 documented attacks on healthcare facilities, while approximately 25% of the country remains under occupation. The conflict has also displaced an estimated 3.7 million people internally, contributing to a growing shortage of skilled healthcare professionals and placing immense pressure on an already overburdened system.
“The need is urgent and complex,” shared Shevchuk. “Beyond rebuilding facilities, Ukraine must also rebuild its healthcare workforce and educational systems to meet the demands of today and the future.”
Korda is currently a professor of Medical Biochemistry at Ternopil National Medical University and holds a Doctor of Medical Sciences in Medical Biochemistry from Odessa State Medical University, Ukraine.
Shevchuk is a professor Professor and University Researcher, MD, PhD, DSc, Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacology and Head of the Research Management Office. At Ternopil National Medical University, Ternopil, Ukraine
Their training at the University of Michigan will equip them with modern techniques in medical education, hospital administration, rehabilitation programs, infection control, and trauma response—critical areas as Ukraine faces increasing demand for care related to war injuries and public health challenges.
Despite the devastation, both emphasized the resilience and determination of the Ukrainian people. Prior to the war, their institution served approximately 8,000 students from 60 countries. Today, that number has been reduced to about 4,000, primarily local students, as international enrollment has been disrupted. Even so, efforts to modernize curriculum and expand programs—particularly in rehabilitation and specialized care—are ongoing.
They also highlighted how innovation continues amid crisis, pointing to advancements such as 3D-printed medical implants and the dedication of faculty and hospital administrators who remain committed to rebuilding the nation’s healthcare system.
The visit was made possible in part through ongoing international partnerships and humanitarian support efforts, including individuals like Brian True, who has spent years working in Ukraine to improve access to clean water and strengthen healthcare initiatives.
For members of the Owosso Rotary Club, the opportunity to contribute to such impactful work underscores the organization’s mission.
“Moments like this are why I chose to be a Rotarian,” said club president Ned DeGalan. “Our members give their time and resources—but most importantly, their hearts—to efforts like this that truly make a difference.”
Through its donation and continued engagement, the Owosso Rotary Club joins a global network of community leaders working to support recovery, resilience, and hope in Ukraine.
The Owosso Rotary is composed of local business owners and residents committed to creating positive change and putting service above self in their communities. The club meets each Wednesday in the community room at Owosso Armory and encourages new members to join. Visit https://www.owossorotary.org/ for more information about the club and how you can get involved.
