East Michigan News

The CMU College of Medicine recently held its annual awards ceremony to honor faculty members who have significantly contributed to academic excellence over the past year. Special recognition was given to Initial Clinical Experience (I.C.E.) preceptors, new members of the Academy of Medical Educators, recently promoted faculty members, and Wendy Biggs, M.D., who received the Dr. George E. and Mona Kikano Leadership in Medical Education Award during the 2024 College of Medicine Commencement.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of the D and C Mridha Spirit of Teaching Award. This award is designed to honor faculty members for their outstanding accomplishments and effective teaching. It recognizes those who contribute to maintaining and enhancing the college's reputation as an outstanding medical school and rewards faculty who inspire, stimulate, challenge, and motivate students.

Michael D. Elftman, Ph.D., received the 2024 D and C Mridha Spirit of Teaching Award. Elftman has been an assistant professor at the College since 2017, specializing in microbiology and immunology concepts. He is noted for staying current with new knowledge to continuously improve his teaching material. Students appreciate his encouragement toward thinking, inquiry, and critical reasoning. Elftman demonstrates compassion, fairness, and professionalism while fostering a highly academic environment for medical students. His leadership roles include chairing several committees such as the College’s Curriculum Committee and serving as course director for Foundational Science of Medicine A.

During the ceremony, Excellence in Teaching Awards were also presented to recognize instructional expertise among faculty members at the College of Medicine. Additionally, an Excellence in Research Award acknowledged outstanding research initiatives by college faculty members who have shown dedication to upholding the mission, vision, and values of CMU College of Medicine.