ANNUAL REPORT
24 25 A YEAR OF GROWTH & RESILIENCE
OFFICE OF ACADEMIC CULTURE AND COMMUNITY
2024 - 25 Annual Report
Table of Contents
Introductions
Medical Student Support
Message from Associate Dean
Leadership Fellowship
4
15
Workshops for Success
17
Mission and Goals
5
Student Interest Groups
18
Meet our Team
7
Community Health Workers
19
Outreach & Engagement
Professional Development
20
Medical Admissions Preparatory Program
9
OACC CommUnity Lounge
21
Day of the Dead Pre - Medical Conference
11
Trainee Support
22
Faculty Support
23
Rural & Tribal Outreach and Engagement
13
ACC Awards
25
Social Media
26
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2024 - 25 Annual Report
Leading with Vision , Inspiring Success
Dear Colleagues and Community Partners ,
Welcome to the inaugural annual report of the Office of Academic Culture and Community ( OACC ) at the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine at the University of Utah ( SFESOM ). This report marks a significant milestone in our journey to cultivate a more , connected , and resilient academic environment . At OACC , we believe the strength of our school lies in the strength of our community . Our mission is to build connections and foster a culture where every student , trainee , faculty , and staff member feels seen , supported , and empowered to thrive . OACC serves as a hub for student - driven initiatives , professional development , and community engagement . From the Medical Admissions Preparatory Program ( MAPP ) and the Leadership Fellowship Program , to our support for trainee and faculty wellness and professional growth , our work is centered on creating spaces where relationships flourish and voices are heard . We are proud to be a relationship generator , connecting people across departments , disciplines , and backgrounds . Whether through mentorship , advocacy , or celebration of cultural heritage , our programs are designed to reflect the values and aspirations of our entire academic community . We understand that true transformation happens when we come together with purpose and compassion .
This report is both a reflection of our progress and a call to connect with us . We invite you to explore the stories , data , and dreams that define our work and to join us in shaping a future where academic excellence is inseparable from belonging and well - being .
With gratitude and hope .
Sincerely ,
Paloma F Cariello , MD , MPH
Associate Dean of Academic Culture and Community
Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine at the University of Utah
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2024 - 25 Annual Report
Mission and Goals Embracing the Future
The mission of the Office of Academic Culture and Community is to create a welcoming and respectful environment in academic medicine for people from all backgrounds, actively recruit, and fully foster the development of a workforce that reflects our communities.
Our Mission
All events and programs offered by OACC are open to everyone, regardless of personal identifying characteristics.
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Our Goals
Recruitment : Identify, attract, and recruit individuals to careers in medicine by enhancing access to educational and professional opportunities across the academic community. Culture and Climate : Foster a welcoming and respectful environment that supports collaboration and values the contributions of all members of the community. Retention : Support success and provide professional development to optimize retention and nurture career advancement for all members of the academic community. Training and Education : Promote education that encourages respectful engagement and collaboration across campus and in affiliated clinical sites. Policies and Accountability : Regularly review and guide institutional policies to promote fair and consistent practices and ensure alignment with SFESOM’s mission. Rural and Tribal Outreach and Community Engagement : Strengthen relationships and support educational initiatives that benefit tribal communities and foster mutual understanding and collaboration.
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Future Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine
2024 - 25 Annual Report
Our Team
Meet the skilled professionals whose expertise and passion have been instrumental in driving our success .
Associate Dean Paloma Cariello , MD , MPH
Assistant Dean Line Kemeyou , MD
Program Manager Eric Warner , MA
Program Coordinator Lia Bermudez , BA
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Director Donna Eldridge , MSW
Director of Education Rawad Farhat , MD , MSPH
Program Coordinator Shiya Zeng , BS
Regional Admission & Academic Culture and Community Program Coordinator Heidi Heiner , BSBA
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2024 - 25 Annual Report
Medical Admissions Preparatory Program
Participants engaged in a wide range of high - impact activities , including :
Created in 2001 and revamped in 2021 , the Medical Admissions Preparatory Program ( MAPP ) is an intensive eight - week summer initiative designed to prepare and empower aspiring medical students to successfully navigate the medical school admissions process . Held from June 10 to August 12 , the 2024 MAPP included a cohort of 20 pre - medical students who demonstrated strong academic potential and a commitment to serving all communities . MAPP provided students with a comprehensive and holistic preparation experience , blending academic enrichment , professional development , and personal growth .
MCAT Preparation
Admission Workshops
Personalized Mentorship
Wellness & Resilience
Clinical Exposure
Professional Development
Community & Belonging
2024 Cohort
Medically Disadvantaged Backgrounds
MAPP Alumni Offered Admission to SFESOM
First - Generation College Students
5
4
4
4
3
75 %
75 %
2
1
0
2023
2024
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2024 - 25 Annual Report
By the end of the program , students began building and preparing their AMCAS application materials , demonstrated progress in MCAT preparation through practice exams , expanded their professional networks , and gained valuable experience in clinical and academic settings . Many reported increased confidence and readiness to apply to medical school , highlighting the transformational nature of their MAPP experience . The 2024 MAPP cohort represents the next generation of future physicians committed to leadership and service in health care .
2024 Post - Program Survey Highlights ( n = 16 )
100 %
80 %
60 %
94 % Improved MCAT Readiness
89 % More Confident Applying
100 % Would Recommend MAPP
40 %
20 %
0 %
MAPP Graduation ( August 2024 )
Before participating in the MAPP program , I honestly felt lost and overwhelmed . Now that I have participated in the program , I feel as though I am able to better navigate my way through the steps and processes necessary to get into medical school .
MAPP an awesome opportunity and program that I am already recommending to was many people I know . I am really grateful and cannot say thank you enough .
Thank you all so much . If it weren ' t for your support , I truly would not have felt prepared to apply to medical school next application cycle .
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2024 - 25 Annual Report
Day of the Dead Pre - Medical Conference
Rooted in tradition and increasing access to medicine , Day of the Dead ( DoD ) is a pre - medical conference in partnership with the Latino Medical Student Association ( LMSA ). While program initiatives have been in place for many years , formal data collection and documentation began in 2013 . On October 26 , 2024 , we welcomed 106 aspiring medical students , a 55 % increase from 2023 . The conference included : Welcome by OACC Director , Donna Eldridge . D í a de los Muertos presentation and reflection at the ofrenda by MS4 Raquel Maynez . Keynote by Dr . Gloria Slattum , GSRM Program Director , about the importance of identity , resilience , and representation in medicine .
Medical school Admissions presentation with Emily O ’ Connor . Mentorship workshop led by Dr . Tom Hurtado . Hands - on ultrasound workshop led by medical students . LMSA medical student lunch panel . Visit to SFSEOM anatomy lab . Student feedback was overwhelmingly positive , with attendees describing the conference as “ amazing ,” “ informative ,” and “ inspiring .” The event ’ s growth and success were supported by enhanced outreach , improved logistics , and strong campus partnerships .
2025 Day of the Dead Pre - Med Conference
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2024 - 25 Annual Report
Post - Survey : Confidence in Navigating Medical School Application Process
Neutral 13 . 7 %
Very con fi dent 37 . 3 %
Growth in Student Attendance ( 2023 2024 ) + 55 %
Somewhat con fi dent 49 %
SFESOM Medical Students
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2024 - 25 Annual Report
Rural and Tribal Outreach and Engagement
During 2024 - 2025 , the American Indian / Alaska Native ( AI / AN ) Outreach and Engagement Program offered and strengthened culturally grounded pathways for AI / AN students in medicine , reaching over 1 , 750 individuals through local , regional , and national efforts . Outreach visits included trips to the Navajo Nation , specifically Whitehorse High School , and Monument Valley High School and to the Uintah River High School on the Ute Indian Tribe ’ s Uintah and Ouray Reservation . These visits engaged over 135 students through hands - on clinical workshops to inspire students to consider medical careers , mentorship from medical students , and college preparation support . American Indian/Alaska Native Outreach and Engagement
Monument Valley High School
Uintah River High School
Whitehorse High School
IndigeSTEAM Signature programs included IndigeSTEAM , which brought 130 students to campus ( 2023 - 2024 ) for immersive STEAM programming , with 92 % gaining new knowledge and 31 % of eligible participants enrolling at the University of Utah .
of participants reported increased interest in health science careers
73 %
of participants indicated increased interest in attending college
75 %
I learned about different specific bones and their functions in the body . I also learned a little about different majors and life experiences in college . - Student
IndigeSTEAM
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Pre-Admission Workshop The 2025 Pre - Admission Workshop ( PAW ), hosted in partnership with the Association of American Indian Physicians , Four Corners Alliance , and SFESOM Admissions supported 18 AI / AN students through a multi - day program focused on medical school preparation . The agenda blended MCAT prep , admissions guidance , and hands - on clinical workshops with cultural programming , mentorship , and wellness activities , creating a space for academic growth , cultural affirmation , and community - building .
Overall Outreach and Engagement
1770 Overall Engagement Connections
47 Medical Student Volunteers
8 Community Partners
19 University of Utah Partners
Additional engagement included participation in Native American Youth Day , the Urban Indian Center of Salt Lake ’ s Back - to - School event , and a workshop during Native American Heritage Month highlighting traditional healing practices that welcomed 95 participants . Events like these , along with cultural celebrations , continue to strengthen belonging , resilience , and representation in medicine . Through sustained outreach and meaningful partnerships , including those with the Association of Native American Medical Students , Center for Native Excellence and Tribal Engagement , and other campus and community collaborators , OACC remains committed to uplifting students and honoring their pathways into health care .
Pre - Admission Workshop ( March 2025 )
Our team also presented and hosted a University of Utah information session at the 52nd Annual Association of American Indian Physicians Conference , highlighting pathways to primary care in tribal and rural communities . We led a session on building sustainable pathways for AI / AN students pursuing careers in health and medicine with a panel of medical students , trainees , and physicians . 52nd Annual Association of American Indian Physicians Conference
Medicine Bag Workshop ( November 2024 )
Panelist at AAIP ’ s SFESOM Information Session
I hope to continue doing outreach and supporting students , particularly in the field of medicine . Outreach and mentorship cannot erase barriers to medicine but they can help lower barriers . This trip has altered my worldview and I hope these takeaways will help me be a more compassionate human , physician , leader , and mentor . - Medical Student
Meeting with AAIP Leaders , AAIP Board Members , and University of Utah Leaders ( September 2024 )
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Leadership Fellowship
Launched in 2021 , the Leadership Fellowship Program aims to provide medical students with meaningful leadership and professional development opportunities through two structured tracks : Mentorship and Research & Advocacy . This paid fellowship is open to medical students who have completed their first year , and it empowers participants to serve as peer leaders , mentor future applicants , and develop projects in efforts that foster belonging across the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine . For the 2024 - 2025 academic year , the program selected 20 medical students to serve as fellows . Each fellow committed an average of five hours per week to completing projects aligned with their personal interests and the OACC ’ s mission . Fellows in the Mentorship Track supported pre - medical students through one - on - one guidance , academic planning , and mentorship . In addition to their direct mentoring roles , Mentor Fellows took the lead in planning and facilitating the Workshops for Success series . Many Mentor Fellows also presented their work at national conferences . Notably , over the past two years , eight pre - medical students mentored by the Mentor Fellows through this program have been offered admissions into the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine . The Research and Advocacy track contributed to innovative curricular and institutional efforts by collaborating with various SFESOM offices on projects aimed at creating meaningful change . These efforts included exploring medical students ’ experiences with the new MD program , addressing mentorship and mental health , and developing a student - led online module focused on cultural humility and serving rural and underserved communities . Notably , 90 % of students presented their work at national conferences such as the AAMC , as well as at local conferences .
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Current Projects
10
Presented Posters at Conference
399
Mentorship Hours
462
Research & Advocacy Hours
2024 - 25 Cohort of Fellows : Moroni Lopez Saachi Jhandi Jeebika Dahal Mariam Atobiloye Brock Coleman
Adrian Portillo Omar Shihab Jacob Taylor May Shaaban Sonia Sehgal
Jacob Knight Karishma Shah Jenna Murray Silvia Soule Ayesha Khan
Adam Gaudin Jenna Weber Eve Larkin Bita Tristani - Firouzi Chris Wallace - Carrete
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2024 - 25 Annual Report
Students ’ Experience with Leadership Program
A comprehensive program evaluation conducted by the fellows found that 100 % of participants gained meaningful skills during the fellowship , while 93 % reported that the supervision and support they received allowed them to meet their goals . Fellows expressed deep appreciation for the sense of community fostered by the program and offered thoughtful recommendations for improving the matching process , enhancing mentor training , and expanding cross - track collaboration .
Fellows Graduation Celebration ( April 2025 )
AAMC Conference ( March 2025 )
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2024 - 25 Annual Report
Workshops for Success
The Workshops for Success : Navigating Academic Medicine series , planned and facilitated by the Mentor Fellows , offers essential support to medical students by addressing non - traditional but critical topics . four workshops were held , including sessions on the Hidden Curriculum , Wellness , Extracurriculars , and Financial Literacy . Attendance remained strong , with 48 students attending the Hidden Curriculum session , a notable 41 % increase from the previous year . The Extracurriculars session also saw high engagement with 42 attendees . While attendance varied , each session provided valuable insights from student panelists and faculty experts , focusing on real - life strategies for navigating medical school . During the 2024 – 2025 academic year , One of the program ’ s key accomplishments this year was the implementation of a new pre - and post - survey evaluation to measure workshop impact . This shift will allow the team to gather meaningful data on participant satisfaction and applicability of content in 2025 .
Workshop Attendance for 2024 – 2025
Financial Literacy ( May 2025 )
5
Extracurriculars ( Mar 2025 )
42
Wellness ( Feb 2025 )
9
Hidden Curriculum ( Dec 2024 )
48
0 1020304050
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2024 - 25 Annual Report
Student Interest Group Support
OACC recognizes Student Interest Groups ( SIGs ) as vital platforms for professional development , peer connection , and identity exploration . We provide tailored support to SIGs through leadership development , event planning consultation , and opportunities to collaborate on programming . In 2024 – 2025 , OACC supported 11 mission - aligned SIG events that collectively enriched student engagement , advanced education , and expanded opportunities for mentorship and specialty exposure . These events focused on identity - affirming experiences , professional skill - building , and community outreach . In addition to logistical and planning support , OACC introduced a post - event evaluation process to help SIGs reflect on outcomes and improve future programming . These reflections show that thoughtful support of SIG events leads to meaningful , student - driven experiences that advance OACC ’ s mission .
Black Women in Health Care for Women ’ s History Month ( February 2025 )
“ The event was extremely successful thanks to the support from OACC . It fostered a powerful environment of mentorship , learning , and empowerment for women in medicine .” — WeWill , Pathways to Empowerment “ Our LMSA event helped create visibility and belonging for Latinx students in medicine . Celebrating National Latino Physician Day brought our community together in a meaningful way .” — Latino Medical Student Association , National Latino Physician Day “ The Women ’ s History Month event was a space of inspiration , especially seeing Black women physicians share their stories . It aligned closely with OACC ’ s mission of community engagement and representation .” — Student National Medical Association , Women ’ s History Month Event “ Planning and running the event helped us grow in areas like teamwork , organization , budgeting , communication , and event planning . It also gave us confidence in our ability to lead and bring our community together .” - Association of Native American Medical Students , Native American Research Internship Social
11 Supported Student - Led Events
5 OACC & SIG Collaboration
200 + Attendees
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2024 - 25 Annual Report
Community Health Workers
The Community Health Worker ( CHW ) Program at the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine plays a critical role in enhancing medical education through experiential service learning . CHWs are trusted public health professionals who share lived experiences with the communities they serve and specialize in addressing social determinants of health ( SDOH ). By partnering CHWs and medical students in clinical environments , the program deepens students ’ understanding of the structural and societal factors that shape patient health . During the 2024 – 2025 academic year , CHWs supported medical students in student - led clinics through direct collaboration on morning huddles , patient chart reviews , and follow - up care . CHWs also trained students on SDOH documentation , community resource navigation , and patient - centered advocacy .
of surveyed students reported interacting with a CHW during their clinic rotation
94 %
reported CHWs enhanced their ability to advocate for patients , recognize available resources , and understand SDOH
98 %
described the CHW ’ s contribution as “ significant value - added ” impact of the CHW in each category .
60 %
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2024 - 25 Annual Report
Professional Development
During the 2024 - 2025 academic year , $ 30 , 000 in professional development scholarships were awarded to medical students at the SFESOM through the Health Resources and Services Administration grant . This funding enabled 16 students to participate in national conferences and educational gatherings , including GDI , NCORE , WGEA , the American Academy of Dermatology , and the Uintah Basin Emergency Care Conference , among others . Scholarships supported registration fees , airfare , lodging , and other travel - related expenses The purpose of this funding is to help prepare students for careers in primary care , with a specific focus on serving rural , Tribal , and medically underserved communities . By removing financial barriers , these scholarships enable students to engage in nationally recognized professional development experiences that deepened their clinical knowledge , expanded their cultural humility , and strengthened their leadership skills . Participation in these conferences not only broadened students ’ exposure to pressing health care issues but also provided opportunities to present scholarly work through oral and poster presentations . The networking opportunities were invaluable in shaping my professional development . These interactions encouraged me to seek out The most valuable part of attending WGEA was connecting with mentors and peers engaged in equity - focused research in academic medicine . With OACC ’ s support , I left feeling inspired and better equipped to contribute meaningfully to this work . mentorship , which will be essential as I navigate my journey through medical school and residency .
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Number of Students Funded
$ 30 , 000 Awarded
This Opportunity Contributed to My Professional Development in Meaningful Ways
Agree 13 %
Strongly Agree 87 %
NCORE ( March 2025 )
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2024 - 25 Annual Report
OACC CommUnity Lounge
Located in Building 379 at the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine , the OACC CommUnity Lounge continues to serve as a dynamic , welcoming space that fosters connection , well - being , and a sense of belonging for medical students , faculty , staff , and community members . Over the past year , the lounge remained a trusted environment where individuals could recharge , collaborate , and access essential resources , including complimentary snacks , beverages , coffee , printing services , and real - time support from OACC staff . Throughout the year , the lounge served as the backdrop for a wide range of impactful programming . It hosted events led by Student Interest Groups , supported interactive sessions for the Medical Admissions Preparatory Program ( MAPP ), Mentor Mixers , and provided a welcoming space for the American Indian / Alaska Native Medical Professional Gatherings . Additionally , the lounge facilitated community - building events , wellness - focused study breaks , and informal gatherings that allowed for decompression during high - stress academic periods . These offerings contributed to a culture of peer support , professional exploration , and social connection .
What do you utilize the lounge for ?
Other 1 . 5 %
Socializing or networking 30 . 4 %
Snacks 30 . 4 %
Printing Services 4 . 4 %
Socializing or working on assignments 13 . 3 %
Administrative Support 3 %
Taking breaks between classes or meetings 17 %
AI / AN Medical Professional Gathering ( October 2024 )
Events Held in the Lounge 27
I enjoy the openness of the area . Sometimes classrooms can feel very enclosed and stuffy so I like how the lounge has an open are with big windows .
You guys are doing amazing work . We are lucky to have this space on campus .
- Medical Student
- Medical Student
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2024 - 25 Annual Report
Trainee Support
Throughout 2024 – 2025 , OACC expanded its support for residents and fellows by strengthening ongoing partnerships with the Graduate Medical Education ( GME ) Office and introducing targeted programming to foster belonging , community , and wellness . Our trainee - focused initiatives centered on three key areas : early orientation , engagement , recruitment , community - building events throughout the year . During the annual GME Orientation in June 2024 , OACC welcomed over 330 new residents and fellows , introducing them to our office ’ s mission , programming , and key campus resources . The orientation continues to be one of our most impactful touchpoints . To further support recruitment , OACC hosted a three - part “ GME Panel Q & A for Culture and Community ” for prospective residents . Each virtual session featured a diverse panel of current residents , fellows , and faculty who answered candid questions about inclusivity and life in Utah and the culture at University of Utah Health . These panels attracted high engagement : over 268 attendees in September 2024 for the trainee panel , 33 attendees in January 2025 for the faculty panel , and in 25 attendees in February 2025 for the trainee panel . The majority of participants rated their overall experience with the GME Panel Q & A sessions positively , with 94 % selecting excellent , very good , or good , and 84 % reporting they were very likely to consider the University of Utah Health for their training , with an additional 13 % indicating they were likely to consider it .
Many noted that the sessions offered clarity , encouragement , and a sense of belonging , especially for those relocating from outside Utah . To support long - term engagement , our office piloted new trainee events beyond recruitment and orientation . In June 2024 , we hosted “ Social with a Purpose ,” a networking event that brought together 50 incoming trainees for early community building . Feedback highlighted the value of connecting across specialties in an informal setting . In October 2024 , a smaller Trainee Mixer engaged 10 current residents , fellows , and post - docs , offering an opportunity to gather feedback on outreach strategies , meaningful events , and existing support gaps .
Fair 6 % GME Panel - Overall Experience
Good 13 %
Excellent 49 %
Very Good 32 %
GME Panel - Likelihood to Consider U of U Health for Training
Neutral 3 %
Likely 13 %
Very Likely 84 %
Social with a Purpose ( June 2024 )
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2024 - 25 Annual Report
Faculty Support
Leadership in Academic Culture and Education ( LACE ) Committee
In 2024 , LACE held eight virtual meetings and hosted three in - person retreats , including a September retreat to review working group progress , a December session with guest speaker Utah Senator Karen Kwan who discussed faculty engagement in policy and advocacy , and a Spring Retreat in February featuring guest speaker Meshea Poore , whose session focused on leadership . LACE ’ s guiding objectives include : Enhancing institutional culture and climate Supporting recruitment and retention strategies for postdoctoral trainees and faculty Promoting education and training that fosters a welcoming learning environment Advising on policies , accreditation standards , and accountability . The committee also plays a key role in outreach and community engagement , working to build relationships that strengthen ties with the broader community .
The Leadership in Academic Culture and Education ( LACE ) Committee plays a vital role in fostering a supportive and welcoming academic environment across the SFESOM . As a strategic advisory body to the Dean , LACE bridges communication between departments and leadership , aligning institutional priorities with those of the University of Utah and the Association of American Medical Colleges . LACE ’ s impact is rooted in its broad representation , bringing together departmental leaders from both clinical and basic science units along with faculty , residents , and student representatives . This structure allows for meaningful collaboration and a wide range of input and responsiveness to evolving institutional needs . Through regular monthly meetings and six targeted working groups — Trainee Recruitment , Faculty Recruitment , Faculty Retention , Mistreatment , Better U Survey , and Education & Training — LACE advances initiatives that address structural matters .
LACE Spring Retreat ( February 2025 )
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2024 - 25 Annual Report
Fostering Excellence in Academic Leadership Through National Engagement OACC continues to strengthen faculty success through intentional investment in professional development .
A cornerstone of this support is our sponsorship of faculty to attend the Association of American Medical Colleges ( AAMC ) Faculty Leadership Development Seminars . These nationally recognized programs are tailored to early and mid - career faculty , offering leadership training , mentorship , and critical insight into academic medicine . These seminars have had a powerful impact on participants . Faculty reported gaining practical knowledge about navigating institutional politics , understanding the financial structures of academic medical centers , and building strategies for courageous leadership and advocacy . Attendees noted that the sessions were not only professionally enriching but also personally transformative , equipping them with new tools to lead more effectively in their departments and across the institution . By supporting participation in these national leadership development opportunities , OACC is advancing its mission to cultivate a thriving , supportive academic environment and empower the next generation of faculty leaders at the Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine .
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Sponsorship Breakdown by Seminar Type ( 2024 - 2025 )
15
Mid Career 27 . 8 %
10
5
Early Career 72 . 2 %
0
2024 2025 ( So Far )
2021
2022
2023
The most informative sessions for me were those lending deeper insights into how academic medical centers work
I really appreciated the session on “ Courage at Work .” Most of us understand that speaking up comes with risk , but the speaker challenged us to understand that not speaking up also comes with risks , and that sometimes , there are more benefits to taking action .
The AAMC meeting did an incredible job creating a safe space that allowed me a chance to see who I am not who I think I need to be . But with that earnest self - reflective moment , I was gifted a chance to see my joy and hope for change and celebrate it .
in terms of leadership , governance structures ,
accountability , and finances . Overall , I thought the seminar was well worth the time for faculty who are in leadership positions and / or are considering taking on leadership role .
– Associate Professor , Pediatrics
– Associate Professor , Nephrology & Hypertension
– Associate Professor , Internal Medicine
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2024 - 25 Annual Report
Academic Culture and Community Awards
Each year , the Office of Academic Culture and Community recognizes individuals who have demonstrated an unwavering dedication to promoting inclusivity , respect , and belonging through their teaching , mentorship , research , programming , and community engagement .
Each awardee received a plaque and monetary award acknowledging their achievement and a token of recognition during the Dean ’ s Reception on May 13 , 2025 .
April Dansie, BS Staff Award “April has played a crucial role in supporting international medical professionals and trainees, addressing unique challenges and providing vital resources for their success. Their commitment to integrating diverse perspectives into institutional policies has strengthened inclusivity across campus.”
David Sandweiss, MD Faculty Award “Dr. Sandweiss is a dedicated advocate and ally for Indigenous health initiatives, fostering belonging across all levels of our institution. Their unwavering support for Native students, faculty, and staff has helped create a more medical education environment. They also engage non-Native allies in critical conversations, promoting cross-cultural collaboration.”
Jacob Knight, MD Student Award “Jake has been a steadfast advocate for a welcoming and supportive environment throughout medical school. They have tirelessly advanced initiatives amplifying medically underserved voices, ensuring all students feel valued. Their leadership has set a high benchmark for inclusivity at interpersonal, departmental, and institutional levels.”
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2024 - 25 Annual Report
Social Media Highlight
Newsletter
901 Subscribers
175 Followers
Followers
958
Growth in Engagement
Our social media and newsletter strategy centers on celebrating our community and amplifying the impact of our work . We regularly share updates about events , spotlight students , staff , and faculty , and highlight our efforts . Posts featuring events hosted or co - hosted by our office consistently perform best , such as the graduation ceremony for our 2024 MAPP students , the 2024 Day of the Dead conference , our presence at the Association of American Indian Physicians conference , and the 2025 Pre - Admission Workshop . These moments showcase our commitment to engagement , education , and community building . Reflecting the growing engagement with our content , we ’ ve seen a 32 . 7 % increase in newsletter subscribers , a 26 . 9 % growth in Instagram followers and a 15 . 9 % growth in Facebook followers .
32 . 7 % Increase in newsletter subscribers
26 . 9 % Growth in Instagram followers
15 . 9 % Growth in Facebook followers
MAPP 2024 Graduation
Day of the Dead 2024
Pre - Admission Workshop 2025
2455
4335
60
136
927
45
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OFFICE OF ACADEMIC CULTURE AND COMMUNITY
27 South Mario Capecchi Drive
www . medicine . utah . edu / oacc
Salt Lake City , Utah 84113
Instagram : @ som . oacc
Facebook : oacc . som
somacc @ hsc . utah . edu
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