Justin Mott, MD, PhD, named Varner Educator Laureate

Justin Mott, MD, PhD, associate professor of biochemistry and molecular biology, has been named the Varner Educator Laureate for 2021-22. He and other recipients of the 2021-22 UNMC Impact in Education Awards will be honored at a virtual ceremony at 4 p.m. on March 3.

The Varner Educator Laureate Award recognizes an individual with sustained achievement in education who has significantly improved the UNMC learning environment through the provision of outstanding educational experiences.

Dr. Mott, the 2018 recipient of the Chancellor Emeritus Harold M. Maurer, MD, and Beverly Maurer Scientific Achievement Award, oversees the UNMC College of Medicine’s MD-PhD program.

"I am delighted that we are able to recognize this outstanding group of faculty members who have been selected by their peers as being exemplary in their dedication to meeting our academic mission," said Dele Davies, MD, senior vice chancellor of academic affairs. "Our faculty are integral to the high quality educational programs we deliver every day, and the awardees are a microcosm of excellence and dedication our faculty. Congratulations to each one, and special thanks to all those who devoted time on the review panels that selected the awardees."

Other recipients of 2021-22 UNMC Impact in Education Awards include:

Abbey Fingeret, MD

Innovative Practices in Education: Abbey Fingeret, MD, associate professor, UNMC Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery

This award recognizes an individual who demonstrates ingenuity, courage and creativity in teaching including innovations in use of educational technology, experiential learning, adoption of simulation and creative use of the classroom, as well as an engaging presentation style.

Bunny Pozehl, PhD

Inspirational Mentor of Educators: Bunny Pozehl, PhD, Professor and Dorothy Hodges Olson Endowed Chair, UNMC College of Nursing

This award recognizes an individual who has mentored and sponsored junior faculty or trainees at the local, regional or national level, including a consistent track record of fostering future educators.

Nada Fadul, MD

Interprofessional Education Scholar: Nada Fadul, MD, associate professor, UNMC Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine

This award recognizes an individual who has made significant contributions to interprofessional education locally, regionally or nationally.

Tanya Custer

Visionary Leadership in Education: Tanya Custer, associate professor, UNMC Department of Allied Health Professions Education, Research & Practice

This award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated the ability to skillfully establish or administer an educational initiative or role at UNMC or a national organization.

Jasmine Marcelin, MD

Emerging Educator Award: Jasmine Marcelin, MD, associate professor, UNMC Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine

The award recognizes an emerging health science educator who demonstrates excellence, dedication and perseverance in teaching and education early in their career.

Matthew Brooks, DMA

Valor in Educational Service Award: Matthew Brooks, DMA, assistant professor, University of Nebraska at Omaha School of Music, and music director/conductor, Nebraska Medical Orchestra

The award recognizes volunteer, emeritus or adjunct faculty whose daily service to our learners exemplifies the spirit of outstanding teaching or clinical supervision.