Impact in Education: Jennifer Adams, MD

Jennifer Adams, MD, is the recipient of the Visionary Leadership in Education Award. The award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated the ability to skillfully establish or administer an educational initiative or role at UNMC or nationally.

• Name: Jennifer Adams, MD
• Title: Associate professor in the UNMC Department of Dermatology
• Joined UNMC: January 2019
• Hometown: Omaha

You are the recipient of the Visionary Leadership in Education Award, which is given for establishing or administering an educational initiative. Tell us about the benefits of the initiative you oversee.

It has been the greatest honor of my career to be a part of building the first dermatology residency training program in Nebraska in more than 40 years. Our residency now is in its fourth year, and I could not be prouder. Despite being a new program, UNMC dermatology ranks in the 95th percentile nationwide compared to other accredited dermatology training programs in the American Board of Dermatology board certification applied exam score. A state that was once 50th out of 50 states for dermatologists per capita now has a training program with exceptional young graduates taking care of Nebraskans’ dermatologic needs.

Describe your proudest moment as an educator.

My proudest moment as an educator came during our first UNMC dermatology residency graduation. Prior to Ashley Wysong, MD, establishing the department and residency, in 2018 and 2020, there had not been a dermatology training program in Nebraska in 40 years. But getting to be there from day one through graduation for our first class of dermatology residents was incredibly moving for me, and I was proud to be part of the journey.

What advice would you give other faculty members who want to have an impact in education?

Feedback is a two-way street and can help all of us grow ourselves and our programs into the best possible version. I have found that seeking avenues for feedback from learners has been a symbiotic and powerful path to growth.

Do you have a favorite quote or philosophy on teaching?

“The purpose of education is to turn mirrors into windows.” -Sydney J. Harris

Learn about the UNMC Impact in Education Awards.