Outstanding faculty and residents named Champions of the Clinical Learning Environment

[Adapted from Scoop, September 9, 2026]

Every day, faculty and resident physicians shape the clinical learning experience through their teaching, mentorship, professionalism, and commitment to patient care. Their interactions with students help create clinical environments where learners feel welcomed, supported, challenged, and respected as they develop into future physicians.

To recognize these contributions, program directors Vineeth John, MD, MBA, and Abbey Bachmann, PhD, MEd, recently named the 2026 Champions of the Clinical Learning Environment.

While this recognition has traditionally honored faculty, the 2026 award has been extended to resident physicians for the significant role they play as near-peer teachers, mentors, and role models for medical students.

This year’s honorees were identified through student nominations collected in the fall 2025 and spring 2026 Learning Environment Surveys. Through these surveys, third-year medical students highlighted individuals who made a meaningful impact on their clerkship experiences.

Students consistently described these champions as educators and role models who fostered inclusive and psychologically safe learning environments, encouraged clinical growth, modeled professional behavior, and demonstrated compassion toward both patients and learners. Following a comprehensive review of student nominations and feedback, faculty and resident champions were selected from each clerkship based on the quality and impact of student comments.

“The individuals recognized this year exemplify the qualities that define an outstanding clinical learning environment,” John said. “Through their dedication to teaching, mentorship, and patient care, they have enriched our students’ educational experience and fostered a culture of professionalism, respect, and excellence across McGovern Medical School.”

2026 Department of Pediatrics faculty awardees for the Champions of the Clinical Learning Environment

Ladan Agharokh, MD, associate professor, Pediatrics

Reubyn Chong, MD, assistant professor, Pediatrics

Amalia Guardiola, MD, associate professor, Pediatrics

Maha Kaissi, MD, assistant professor, Pediatrics

Dalilah Reyes de Jesus, MD, assistant professor, Pediatrics

2026 Department of Pediatrics resident awardees for the Champions of the Clinical Learning Environment

Catherine Bryant, MD, Pediatrics

Natalie Cade, MD, Pediatrics

Yuval Shavit, MD, Pediatrics

See the full list of 2026 Champions of the Clinical Learning Environment>>

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