May 23, 2025

Dear colleagues,

 

Earlier this month, I had the honor of attending our School of Medicine graduation ceremonies for the MD, DPT, and GC programs—a joyful celebration after years of hard work, growth, and perseverance. Watching our graduates cross the stage, hearing their stories, and seeing the faculty who guided and supported them every step of the way was profoundly inspiring. The dedication, creativity, and compassion our faculty bring to teaching and mentorship were evident in every celebration, award, and word of thanks shared by our learners.

 

So today, we proudly celebrate Educator Appreciation Day.

 

This year, the School of Medicine Recognitions Committee received more than 250 nominations—each one a testament to the profound impact our educators have on learners across all levels. Whether it’s transforming complex clinical topics into clear, confidence-building learning moments in a busy emergency department, creating a resident wellness and robotics training program that enhances post-graduate preparation, or founding Georgia’s first Med-Peds residency to support future physician-educators, your efforts are shaping the future of health care and advancing the mission we all share.

 

We invite you to visit the Educator Appreciation Day website to view this year’s honorees and celebrate the colleagues whose work exemplifies excellence in education.

Honorees can celebrate Educator Appreciation Day by sharing the news with our pre-made social media graphic. Or, post your own tribute to an educator who inspires you. Be sure to tag Emory School of Medicine in your posts. 

 

To all our faculty involved in teaching—recognized or not—thank you. Your dedication elevates our institution and helps prepare tomorrow’s clinicians, scientists, and leaders. I am honored to work alongside you.

With gratitude,

Sandra

 

Sandra L. Wong, MD, MS
Dean, Emory University School of Medicine
Chief Academic Officer, Emory Healthcare