The UNMC College of Medicine recently celebrated its first-ever Medical Education Awards, honoring faculty members who have shown exceptional dedication to teaching and mentorship.
This year’s awards drew a highly competitive group of nominees, showcasing the quality of education at the college. Seven awards were handed out across different disciplines.
Kimberly Latacha, PhD, received the Distinguished Foundational Science Educator Award. For over 15 years, Dr. Latacha has been a vital part of UNMC’s anatomy education. She is known for her engaging teaching style, making complex subjects accessible and relevant. Students rave about her ability to bring excitement into the classroom. Her accolades include the 2024 Hirschmann Prize for Excellence in Teaching and a University-Wide Departmental Teaching Award in 2018.
On the clinical side, Karen Carlson, MD, clinched the Distinguished Clinical Educator Award. Known for her innovative simulation-based teaching methods, Dr. Carlson has made a significant impact on clinical education at UNMC. She developed the Residency Preparatory Class, which combines curriculum focus with hands-on simulation, widely endorsed by both students and faculty. Her work has even been recognized globally; her 3D-printed gynecological task trainer is now used in 54 countries. Dr. Carlson expressed her gratitude, stating that influencing future doctors is incredibly rewarding.
Several other awards highlighted emerging talent and innovation:
- Emerging Clinical Educator Award: Jennifer Davis, MD, and Lindsay Blick, MD
- Emerging Foundational Science Educator Award: Megan Perry, PhD
- Foundational Science Educator Innovation Award: Travis McCumber, PhD
- Clinical Educator Innovation Award: Christopher Smith, MD
- Mentorship and Coaching Excellence Award: Jasmine Marcelin, MD
Dr. Nada Fadul, associate dean for faculty affairs, praised these individuals for their excellence in teaching and mentorship. Dean Bradley Britigan echoed her sentiments, emphasizing that teaching in medical education is not just a job but a calling. These mentors are influencing the next wave of medical professionals, making a lasting impact on healthcare.
According to the American Association of Medical Colleges, the demand for qualified healthcare professionals is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. With awards like these, institutions not only recognize excellence but also set benchmarks for future educators.
In social media circles, UNMC’s awards have sparked conversations about the importance of innovation in education. Many users are sharing their personal stories and experiences with exemplary educators, illustrating how impactful teaching can shape careers and lives.
These awards highlight the vital role of mentorship and teaching in medicine, reinforcing the idea that great educators lay the foundation for future advancements in healthcare.
