UNMC’s Interprofessional Academy of Educators held its ninth annual induction ceremony on Sept. 19.
A total of 29 new members were inducted: 19 faculty and staff as members, nine learners as associate members and one Nebraska Medicine staff member as an affiliate member. In addition, three retired academy members became emeritus members.
The 2024 induction was held in person to enable new inductees and current members to connect and network, a key part of the academy’s mission to cultivate a community across professions that connects educators with like interests to drive collaboration, innovation and scholarship.
New inductee Nick Guenzel, PhD, assistant professor in the UNMC College of Nursing-Lincoln Division, praised the academy for the opportunities it provides.
“I joined the academy because the instructional opportunities available to faculty have expanded significantly, even in the relatively short period of time I have been at UNMC,” he said. “To provide the best educational experience for our students, it is essential to stay current, and connecting with other educators is a great way to do this.”
Claudia Berrondo, MD, assistant professor in the UNMC Department of Surgery, Division of Urologic Surgery, said she joined the Interprofessional Academy of Educators to be part of a community dedicated to enhancing medical education.
“I’m passionate about refining my teaching skills to better equip medical students, residents and fellows for their future careers,” Dr. Berrondo said. “I’m also eager to contribute to curriculum design, explore innovative approaches to teaching surgical skills and foster a supportive environment for clinical and research mentorship. Ultimately, I hope to publish my work in medical education and share my insights with colleagues to advance the field.”
The opportunity for collaboration is often a driving factor for joining the academy.
“Joining the Interprofessional Academy of Educators aligns perfectly with my passion for collaborative efforts aimed at enhancing the learning environment for all students,” said inductee Leah Stade, OTD, assistant professor of occupational therapy in the UNMC College of Allied Health Professions. “My interest in becoming a member comes from a desire to foster connections, opportunities and engagement with the UNMC community in the broadest sense of the word. I’m looking forward to learning with and from others in the field of healthcare education.”
Applications for membership and affiliate membership will open again in spring 2025. Associate membership applications will open in August 2025. For more information on the Interprofessional Academy of Educators, visit the academy website.