Faculty, Students and Trainees Recognized for Innovation in Teaching and Mentoring

Dean’s Award for Excellence in Teaching

Dean’s Award for Excellence in Teaching (Preclinical education)
Steve Schneid, MHPE

Since joining UC San Diego in 2002, Steve Schneid, MHPE, director of educational development and scholarship at the School of Medicine and the Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, has become a cornerstone of medical education through his dynamic teaching, exceptional mentorship and innovative curriculum development. Widely acclaimed by both medical and pharmacy students, he has received multiple teaching awards and created impactful resources like the “Schneid Guides” YouTube channel. He directs the Core Topics in Biomedical Sciences (CTBS) pre-matriculation program, which he transformed into a flipped-classroom model with team-based learning and a focus on professional identity formation. As co-director of the teaching and learning concentration, he mentors students and faculty in educational scholarship, curricular innovation and leadership. His numerous contributions, including integrating harm reduction and peer coaching into the curriculum, demonstrate his deep commitment to inclusive, learner-centered education and making a lasting impact on generations of students.

Dean’s Award for Excellence in Teaching (Clinical education)
Brian K. Kwan, M.D.

Brian K. Kwan, M.D., co-director of the internal medicine clerkship and clinical professor of medicine, is an exceptional clinician-educator whose teaching has profoundly impacted medical students and residents at the UC San Diego and the Jennifer Moreno Department of Veteran Affairs Medical Center. Widely praised for his ability to balance autonomy with guidance, he fosters a safe, engaging and intellectually rigorous learning environment that emphasizes clinical reasoning, feedback, and learner growth. As co-director of the medicine  core clerkship course and a leader in multiple educational innovations, his mentorship has led to award-winning student work and national recognition. Universally admired for his clarity, empathy, and dedication, Kwan is a transformative figure in medical education.

Award for Excellence in Curriculum or Educational Innovation

 Michael Taddonio, M.D.

Michael Taddonio, M.D., associate clinical professor in the Department of Radiology, developed Diagnostics 1 & 2 courses, new additions to the COAST curriculum, which integrate histology, diagnostic radiology and laboratory medicine. These longitudinal courses provide a structured foundation in clinical reasoning and diagnostics, using interactive, case-based learning, flipped classrooms and small-group discussions, filling a gap in early medical education. Course content progresses from imaging basics to system-based content while addressing topics such as appropriate criteria for ordering tests, radiation safety and imaging equity. Widely well-received, the course has significantly influenced how medical students approach clinical decision-making from the start of their training.

Educational Scholarship Award

The Educational Scholarship Award recognizes one faculty or staff member each year who demonstrates an active role in health sciences education research; generates evidence-based teaching and learning practices to impact student learning outcomes; captures grant funding in medical education research; and disseminates scholarship of this research.

Desiree Shapiro, M.D.

With a research portfolio centered on promoting mental health, well-being, and equity within medical education and health care environments, Desiree Shapiro, M.D.’s work includes numerous peer-reviewed publications on topics such as suicide prevention in health care workers (via the HEAR Program), psychotherapy’s impact on burnout and depression in medical trainees, and structural approaches to improve well-being in pharmacy and medical education. A clinical professor in the Department of Psychiatry, she is also deeply engaged in initiatives to increase diversity in child and adolescent psychiatry and to address health equity, particularly for Latinx communities. Shapiro has served as principal investigator on multiple funded projects, including wellness curricula, compassion training, intergenerational storytelling and inclusive education for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her contributions to curriculum scholarship and mental health advocacy reflect a broad and impactful commitment to humanizing health care training and supporting marginalized populations.

Resident & Fellow Teaching Award

The Resident & Fellow Teaching Award recognizes the trainee who displays excellence in the domains of teaching, engaging the learner and creating an environment that promotes intellectual curiosity and inquiry.

Marissa Shoji, M.D.

Throughout her clinical fellowship in oculoplastic surgery, Marissa Shoji, M.D. showed unwavering dedication to teaching, clinical excellence, and compassionate care, which left a lasting impact on students and colleagues alike. She consistently went above and beyond to create inclusive, supportive, and hands-on learning environments in the clinic, operating room, or through extracurricular teaching sessions, all while managing her own busy clinical responsibilities including being on call nearly every week. Shoji has been deeply committed to her mentees’ personal and professional growth, offering individualized guidance, career mentorship, research support, and skill development with patience and generosity. Her empathetic communication with patients, dedication to teaching and outstanding patient care, and collaborative spirit make her a powerful role model and a truly deserving candidate for recognition in teaching excellence.

Student Teacher Award

This award recognizes students who have demonstrated commitment and excellence in teaching and medical education.

Dhruv Puri, M.D.

A 2025 School of Medicine graduate, who will complete a urology residency at UC San Diego, Dhruv Puri, M.D., has already made a strong impact on medical education through his commitment to mentorship, peer support and educational leadership. He is widely recognized for his generosity, patience, and personalized approach to teaching, particularly in supporting students from underrepresented backgrounds and guiding peers through academic challenges, including preparation for United States Medical Licensing Exam Step 1. Puri has played a vital role in mentoring students interested in urology, connecting them with faculty, research opportunities and tailored guidance. His influence extends beyond academics into research and policy advocacy, where he empowers students to engage in meaningful contributions. Through his consistent mentorship, advocacy, and selfless support, Puri has become an invaluable role model and leader within the UC San Diego medical community.

The Kaiser Permanente Excellence in Teaching awards are selected by medical students annually. Through the voting process, each student is encouraged to vote for recipients who embody  what excellence means to them. Faculty members and trainees are recognized for teaching in a comprehensible manner, inspiring students, serving as a role model or exhibiting characteristics the students hope to emulate.

Katharina Brandl, R.Ph., Ph.D.
Selected by the first-year class

Katharina Brandl, R.Ph., Ph.D., professor at the Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, is well known for her innovative and engaging teaching methods. School of Medicine students consistently recognize her commitment to helping them truly understand the why behind everything she is teaching them. Her Brandl’s Basics Pharmacology flashcards are beautifully illustrated and easy to understand. Brandl has also created a YouTube channel featuring Brandl’s Basics, a series of 175 videos utilizing learning glass technology, which provides interactive visual aids to explain complex concepts. In testimonials from students, Brandl is lauded for her clarity, creativity and commitment to student success.

Cameron McGuire, M.D.
Selected by the second and fourth year classes

W. Cameron McGuire M.D., clinical instructor in the Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, strives to make material more memorable by using multiple teaching methods, clear structure and by sharing personal experiences from his own medical education journey. His educational efforts focus on customizing teaching content to the needs of his learners.

Joseph Diaz, M.D.
Selected by the third year class

Joseph Diaz, M.D, associate clinical professor in the Division of General Internal Medicine, is also the division’s clinical services chief. His interests include mitigating physician burnout, improving clinic operational efficiencies and teaching and learning from students and residents in his primary care practice.

Akshat Kumar, M.D.
Selected by the House Staff
Akshat Kumar, M.D., PGY-1, is an internal medicine resident. He loves working with medical students on wards and helping them grow in their clinical skills and expertise.

Kevin Paternostro, M.D.
Selected by the House Staff

Kevin Paternostro, M.D., a chief medical resident in internal medicine, deeply values the opportunity to work with medical students—both on the wards and through dedicated teaching sessions. He especially enjoys teaching cardiology and leads an interactive EKG workshop designed to make intimidating concepts feel approachable and relevant. His goal is always to meet learners where they are and help build both confidence and understanding. 

The Whitehill Prize for Clinical Excellence is given on behalf of the UC San Diego Health Sciences Academy of Clinician Scholars (AoCS). This body of distinguished faculty recognized by their peers for exceptional clinical skills, their commitment to patient care, medical education, and the advancement of new medical knowledge creates a legacy of excellent health care delivery by fostering the continuous professional development of UC San Diego’s clinician scholars. Recipients from each department are chosen by the chief residents or their delegates and given to an assistant or associate level faculty member as AoCS strives to recognize junior faculty.

Kenneth Miller, M.D.
Anesthesiology
Recognized for his consistent excellence in teaching and mentorship, Kenneth Miller, M.D. is a patient and thoughtful anesthesiologist who treats residents as colleagues, encourages independent thinking and provides clear, effective instruction. His understanding of the resident perspective and commitment to professional growth make him an outstanding educator and role model.

Genevieve Kaunitz, M.D.
Dermatology
Selected for this honor based on her notable contributions to education, Genevieve Kaunitz, M.D. leads by example. She cares deeply for her patients, medical students, residents and colleagues. Her bedside manner is excellent and inspirational. She has taken on leadership in the department’s quality improvement curriculum and has provided didactics and mentorship to elevate her trainees’ impacts.  One nominator noted, “We're thrilled to have the benefit of her wisdom, perspective and compassion as a part of our residency journey.”

Michael Self, M.D.
Emergency Medicine
As junior faculty, Michael Self, M.D. has already become a cornerstone of the emergency medicine residency program. He is recognized for his outstanding on-shift teaching—always engaged, always generous with his time and always pushing residents to think deeper. As his nominator noted, “His post-shift learning pearls are legendary. He shows up not just as a teacher, but as a friend. He builds camaraderie, joins us after shifts, and helps create the kind of culture that makes this residency special. He truly embodies everything this award stands for: clinical excellence, dedication to education, and authentic advocacy for residents.”

Ariel Portera, D.O.
Family Medicine
As a leader in integrative medicine, Ariel Portera, D.O., brings a holistic and compassionate approach to patient care that inspires both her patients and residents. She is a phenomenal teacher who consistently goes above and beyond to support residents, advocating for education, wellness and growth. Her dedication to teaching and her patients embodies the very spirit of this award and what is means to be a family medicine physician.

Ashley Scanlon, M.D.
Internal Medicine
Ashley Scanlon, M.D., has been an exceptional role model and mentor throughout for the residency program. Her nominator said, “Dr. Scanlon served as our chief resident early in our residency experience, at which time she set an exceptional example as an approachable, intellectual and compassionate leader. She has continued to provide mentorship during our chief resident year, actively engaged as a leader in the Resident as Clinician Educator track and Women in Medicine organization. She also was always willing to answer questions and provide guidance during our first experiences as attendings on inpatient medicine wards during chief year. Scanlon's consistent support across many years is greatly appreciated.”

Victoria Wu, M.D.
Neurology
Growing from a passionate, dedicated senior resident to an equally passionate assistant program director, Victoria Wu, M.D., has shown extraordinary dedication to educating those around her, both residents and medical students alike. She is a fierce advocate and works tirelessly to improve and advance the residency program. She goes above and beyond her duties, providing a supportive ear to those who may need it. 

David Santiago-Dieppa, M.D.
Neurological Surgery
David Santiago Dieppa, M.D. exemplifies the highest standards of clinical teaching in neurosurgery. A subspecialist in endovascular neurosurgery, he brings a rare combination of technical excellence, humility and mentorship to every clinical encounter. Santiago-Dieppa’s ability to distill complex cases into teachable moments—whether in the OR, angio suite, or on rounds—has had a transformative impact on resident education. He consistently models professionalism, patient-centered care and surgical precision, inspiring residents to uphold the same rigor and compassion in their own practice.

Nicole Teal, M.D.
Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences
Nicole Teal, M.D. was selected for her dedication to teaching, mentorship, and the development of future physicians.This award is a testament to her invaluable service to the medical community and the students she has mentored.

Nathan Scott, M.D.
Ophthalmology
Since Nathan Scott, M.D. joined the ophthalmology faculty in 2022, he quickly established himself as a compassionate and superb clinician, skilled surgeon, exceptional educator and knowledgeable and productive researcher. Scott has the reputation of being a collaborative and ethical clinician and surgeon who does not shy away from complex pathology and is always willing to help and collaborate with his colleagues. He has significantly enriched the trainee experience with his ability to break down complex ocular pathology and exam findings to digestible concepts and his willingness to introduce residents to their often first vitrectomy. Outside of his busy clinical and surgical practice, he has been a dedicated mentor to many medical students and residents and has engaged in a variety of impactful research topics.

Ian Foran, M.D.
Orthopaedic Surgery
Regarded as a cornerstone of the PGY-3 experience, Ian Foran, M.D., consistently takes time to teach in both clinic and the operating room, tailoring foot and ankle discussions to each resident’s career interests. His translational approach ensures that all residents develop a solid understanding of core foot and ankle pathology. Surgically, he provides appropriate graduated autonomy, offering a high-quality operative experience. Every resident comes away from his rotation with significant growth, and he is widely recognized as a dedicated educator truly deserving of this award.

Jesse Qualliotine, M.D.
Otolaryngology
Jesse Qualliotine, M.D., is a skilled head and neck surgeon and a deeply committed educator. Through his dedication to patient care, thoughtful teaching, and steady mentorship, he has made a lasting impact on both his patients and his trainees.

Mariah Leivo, M.D.
Pathology
Mariah Leivo, M.D., is constantly striving to support and uplift trainees in pathology and to create a positive learning environment. She is an outstanding mentor and educator who consistently tailors her teaching to each learner’s level, creating a supportive and enriching environment. Her dedication to resident education, availability, and genuine care for both learning and well-being make her an invaluable and deeply appreciated attending physician.

Chloe Kupelian, D.O.
Pediatrics
Since joining the ranks of pediatric hospital medicine attendings, Chloe Kupelian, D.O., has continued her exemplary teaching that was evident throughout her time as a fellow at Rady Children's Hospital-San Diego. Her nomination for this award highlights her unwavering commitment to fostering a supportive learning environment, her ability to engage and inspire residents, and her consistent focus on teaching as a cornerstone of exceptional family centered care.

Andrew Willeford, PharmD, Ph.D.
Clinical Pharmacy
An exceptional preceptor and mentor, Andrew Willeford, PharmD, Ph.D., exemplifies the qualities of a compassionate clinician, dedicated teacher and inspiring leader. He is consistently described as knowledgeable, patient and approachable, with a natural ability to make complex topics such as obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and Guideline-Directed Medical Therapy trials easy to understand. His mentorship extends beyond clinical practice; he actively supports residents and pharmacy students alike through professional development, research guidance and residency preparation.

Yash Joshi, M.D., Ph.D.
Psychiatry
A dedicated and energetic educator and leader, Yash Joshi, M.D., Ph.D., consistently makes efforts to mentor and engage with residents, find new learning opportunities and critically evaluate educational programs to ensure they are up to date and effective. He is a dedicated advocate for education and trainees. His excellent work and passion for teaching provides medical students and residents with a role model and example of excellence in academic psychiatry.

Lily Sung, M.D.
Diagnostic Radiology
Lily Sung, M.D., is known among the residents for her dynamic lectures, thoughtful clinical instruction and generous mentorship. She is deeply appreciated by the trainees trying to navigate the  shoals of complex congenital cardiac studies. Her passion for her academic work is infectious, and her willingness to share and foster that enthusiasm with her trainees makes her a stand-out faculty member.

Austin Hopper, M.D.
Radiation Oncology
An outstanding mentor and educator for radiation oncology residents, Austin Hopper, M.D., brings a deep knowledge base to clinical discussions and takes time to teach, particularly in complex cases involving the skull base, where his insights have been invaluable. He has also acted as a trusted advisor as residents transition into early career attending roles, helping to refine clinical judgment and professional development. Beyond teaching, Hopper has been a steadfast advocate for the residency program during a period of departmental growth and changes in the program.

Jarrett Santorelli, M.D.
Surgery
Jarrett Santorelli, M.D., embodies the “triple threat” in academic medicine. Aside from being a dedicated and exceptional surgeon, he sees clinical problems through a uniquely innovative lens. Whether it is using a ureteral stone basket to retrieve a foreign object in a trauma patient’s trachea or pushing the bounds of what laparoscopy can achieve in a trauma patient, he is always thinking about how to utilize the latest technology or adapt techniques from other specialties to better care for his patients. This line of innovation translates to his burgeoning research enterprise as well. He has been the senior author of several important papers in trauma and emergency general surgery including using artificial intelligence to improve outcome abstraction of trauma patients.  Above all, what sets Santorelli apart is his dedication to teaching and mentorship. He has always made it a point to maximize resident educational experience in cases no matter the time of the day. At the same time, he also takes an active role in mentoring residents, such as checking in to make sure they are on track for their professional goals or making sure a resident is ok after being part of a difficult complication.

Darshan Patel, M.D.
Urology
Darshan Patel, M.D., has played a profound role in the professional development and personal growth of residents. His surgical finesse is truly admirable, and he makes even the most complex cases feel approachable due to his calm demeanor and patience with teaching. Beyond the operating room, he is a trusted confidante to many of us and an invaluable source of advice. He is genuinely dedicated to mentoring us to enable us to reach our research and career goals. He is truly committed to the pillars of academic medicine – clinical excellence, research, and teaching.