The Journey

SOM Curriculum Committee Year in Review: Chair’s Perspective

The Curriculum Committee has had an incredibly active year fulfilling its charge to design, manage and evaluate the School of Medicine curriculum. Through the activities of eight subcommittees, the Curriculum Committee continues to enhance the educational program following the introduction of the new systems-based curriculum in the fall of 2023. Dr. Austin Harrison gives more detail of the year in review for the committee.

The Discovery Curriculum

The Discovery Curriculum is new addition to the 2026-2027 preclinical curriculum that is designed to promote lifelong learning among medical students at UMMC. Recognizing that in the rapidly evolving nature of medicine and science it is impossible to impart all necessary knowledge during formal training, the Discovery Curriculum emphasizes equipping students with the skills needed to continuously identify their own individualized learning needs and formulate plans to address those needs. Dr. Sarah Sterling elaborates on the new curriculum.

Faculty Workload Challenges and the Central Role of Faculty as the Educational Linchpin

Our faculty operate within a complex, demanding and constantly evolving professional environment. Faculty are expected to excel simultaneously as educators, clinicians, researchers and mentors who are fully engaged in the missions of the school and institution. Dr. Loretta Jackson gives more insight into the workload and challenges the dedicated UMMC faculty face daily.

Student Mistreatment: Do the Right Thing

Student mistreatment remains a persistent challenge in medical education, shaping not only the learning environment but also the long-term well-being and professional development of future physicians. Dr. Mike McMullan gives more detail regarding the definition and policies surrounding student mistreatment.

PowerPoint Accessibility: Small Changes, Big Impact

PowerPoint includes several built-in features that help ensure slides are readable, well-organized and compatible with assistive technologies. It is important to note that while both the desktop version of Microsoft PowerPoint and PowerPoint Online offer accessibility features, the desktop application includes more robust tools.

Upcoming SOM Faculty Development Sessions

The School of Medicine (SOM) and the Department of Advanced Medical Education have collaborated again this year to develop the 2026 SOM Annual Faculty Development Series. This series provides one-hour sessions throughout the year on topics that aim to enhance teaching and learning, and the academic environment. These virtual sessions are held at noon and highlight the expertise and research of SOM faculty as well as faculty from other institutions. Select presentations will offer an in-person version.