The annual teaching awards were announced during the Yale School of Medicine MD Class of 2025 Commencement. Seven distinguished awards were presented.
Charles W. Bohmfalk Prizes for Teaching. One prize is given to a faculty member teaching in the basic sciences, and one to a faculty member teaching in the clinical sciences.
Basic sciences: Meenakshi Alreja, PhD, associate professor of psychiatry and neuroscience.
One student noted, “Of all courses I have taken at Yale, BBB has been the most fascinating and engaging. You and Professor Henninger have hit on something very unique when you decided to tie the lecture with the patient interview. My most memorable experience as a first-year medical student happened within your course, and in particular during the patient interview.”
Clinical sciences: Stephen Holt, MD, MS, associate professor of medicine (general medicine).
One student noted, “His mastery over the medical literature suffuses his approach, careful to underscore the sensitivity and specificity of tests, which broadens our clinical acumens in the real world. As a primary care doctor with broad skills, including orthopedics and addiction psychiatry, his holistic patient care also serves as an example for what a future in the field might look like.”
The Leonard Tow Humanism in Medicine Award presented by the Arnold P. Gold Foundation recognizes and honors a faculty member who has demonstrated particular compassion and sensitivity in the delivery of care to patients.
Oluwatosin Adeyemo, MD, MPH, assistant professor of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive sciences.
One student noted, “Dr. Adeyemo is not only a natural teacher but also a thoughtful clinician. Her dedication to providing comprehensive education and emotional support resonates deeply with all who work with her. Dr. Adeyemo’s approach to student involvement is inclusive and respectful. She epitomizes compassionate care whether during the birthing process, in the operating room, or counseling on miscarriage management. She is an inspirational act to follow.”
The Alvan R. Feinstein Award is awarded annually to a Yale School of Medicine faculty member chosen by the chairs and faculty of the clinical departments and members of the graduating class as the outstanding teacher of clinical skills.
Samuel Buck, MD, assistant professor of emergency medicine.
One student noted, “Dr. Buck has taught us so much, in SIM sessions and while on shift. He strikes the perfect balance of letting students figure things out and stepping in to help us achieve our full potential. He treats patients, colleagues, and students with the utmost respect – it was truly an honor to work with him!”
The Leah Lowenstein Award is presented annually at graduation to the Yale School of Medicine faculty member who is the model of a medical educator whose humane teaching reaches and influences all students regardless of gender, race, or socioeconomic background. These are the traits espoused by the late Leah Lowenstein, a medical educator and first female dean of a co-educational medical school (Jefferson Medical College during the 1980s).
Sabrina Nunez, PhD, associate professor of genetics.
One student noted, in part, “Her course's placement towards the beginning of the pre-clerkship curriculum ensures that she reaches every student in a nascent state, and she shapes our development for the better. In her course, she leads highly nuanced yet accessible discussions about the course material, allowing students to make sense of the relationship between race, gender, and inheritance. She welcomes students into these conversations and at the same time makes clear the complexities that underpin them. Outside her specific course, she labors tirelessly to improve and adapt the pre-clerkship curriculum, making her presence felt even if students are unaware of her influence. She remains one of my greatest role models as an educator with her drive to enhance the learning experience and her willingness to change her approach to find what works for each class.”
The Francis Gilman Blake Award is presented annually to a member of the faculty of the School of Medicine designated by the graduating class as the most outstanding teacher of the medical sciences.
John Guzzi, MD, assistant professor of anesthesiology.
In remarks, one of the class co-presidents stated, “This year’s Francis Gilman Blake Award goes to a physician who has been an incredible mentor and educator — from his time as a Yale resident and fellow, to now co-leading the anesthesia student rotations as an attending. His patience, kindness, and positivity have made significant impacts on many of our journeys to residency.”
The Betsy Winters House Staff Award honors the house staff member who has made the most significant contributions to the education of medical students. The recipient of this award is chosen by the graduating class.
Richard Maduka, MD, a PGY-5 resident in the Department of Surgery
In remarks, one of the class co-presidents stated that Maduka, “is recognized for the thoughtful and generous ways he uplifts medical students and team members, offering guidance, encouragement and a consistently welcoming presence. His kindness and enthusiasm have helped create a learning environment where students of all interests feel supported and empowered to grow.”
Ally Yang, MD, a PGY-3 resident in the Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation.
In remarks, one of the class co-presidents stated, “Despite the demands of a busy surgical residency, this individual has gone above and beyond in their commitment to mentorship, education, and patient care. Throughout every stage of medical student training, they have not only served as an outstanding role model but have truly become a mentor and advocate for so many.”