The Postgraduate Medical Education (PGME) team launched its first New Program Directors鈥� Bootcamp on September 13, providing a comprehensive orientation for 27 new Program Directors to help them navigate the landscape of medical education.听听
The day started with an introduction by Joanne Alfieri, MDCM, Assistant Dean of Curricula, PGME and a welcome address from Regina Husa, MD, Associate Dean for PGME. 鈥淲e are thrilled to be able to provide this new program director training to our emerging leaders in PGME, the first of its kind,鈥� said Dr. Alfieri, 鈥渁nd to have program directors start their journey on the right foot.鈥澨�听
The sessions covered several key topics, including an overview of the Office for Medical Learner Affairs by Olivia Tse, MDCM, Assistant Dean of Resident Professional Affairs, PGME; a presentation of PGME鈥檚 administrative structure by Alessandra Celani, Associate Director of Operations, PGME; and an exploration of the accreditation process with Gabriela Ghitulescu, MDCM, Assistant Dean, PGME Accreditation.听
Throughout the event, participants gained insights into the services provided by the Office for Medical Learner Affairs and Student Accessibility and Achievement Office, understanding PGME structures and policies and grappling with the nuances of competency-based medical education. They delved into resident assessment tools, explored the accreditation cycle and reform and learned how to create new fellowships.听听
A highlight of the event was the 鈥淭ips & Tricks鈥� segment with award-winning program directors Victoria Mandilaras, MDCM (Program Director for the medical oncology residency program) and Jana Taylor, MDCM (Program Director for Diagnostic Radiology).听听
Beyond the information sessions, the bootcamp also facilitated networking opportunities during the lunch and mingle session. 鈥淭he bootcamp was a great opportunity to meet other program directors and to learn about the varied resources available to struggling residents,鈥� said participant and Interim Program Director in the Department of Family Medicine, Kirandeep Birdi, MD, speaking after the event. 鈥淥ur residents teach us as much as we teach them, and it is a rewarding responsibility to facilitate their development as future colleagues.鈥澨�听
Attendees appreciated the New Program Directors鈥� Bootcamp for helping to equip them with the knowledge, tools and connections necessary to excel in their roles as future leaders of medical education. 鈥淲e are fortunate to work with such knowledgeable, dedicated and caring support staff,鈥� said Dr. Birdi. 鈥淚t is reassuring to know that they are available to help.鈥澨�听
Photo: Program Directors attend the first New Program Directors鈥� Bootcamp in September 2023听(Credit: Chrisoula Patoucheas)听