New office to support longitudinal learning

Dear colleagues, 

As you know, the Heritage College is nearing completion of a total curricular modernization. Not only has the Pathways to Health and Wellness Curriculum transformed our teaching and learning, it has also significantly altered our academic operations and assessment needs. Today, I am excited to announce plans to evolve our organizational structure so that it can better support a cohesive, longitudinal learning experience for our students. 

Earlier this week, the Heritage College took initial steps toward the creation of a new Office of Medical Education. Under the leadership of a senior associate dean for medical education, this department will comprise three units: Preclinical Education, Clinical Education, and Assessment and Accreditation. We believe this structure will streamline college processes while creating the additional capacity that is required for continuous improvement, enhanced student and faculty support, and accreditation needs.  

Many of the details surrounding realignment will be determined in coordination with the associate deans hired to oversee individual units within the Office of Medical Education. We hope to have these senior leadership positions in place by the beginning of the next academic year. At this time, functional roles and reporting will stay the same. Questions may be directed to Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives Brenda Noftz.  

Integrating support functions across all four years of medical school will foster collaboration, improve efficiency and ensure consistency for our students. This will be the best structure to repurpose our existing administrative resources to support our academic mission. More information will be shared as this multi-phased process gets underway.  

Sincerely, 

Ken Johnson, D.O.