Calling all UT Health Science Center Learners!
Thank a faculty member, resident, or other educator for their dedication to teaching and learning! If someone facilitated an unforgettable learning experience, let them know!
Thank those who have:
- engaged you in your learning
- made it worthwhile to go to class
- taught you in innovative ways
- challenged you to excel inside and outside of the classroom
- inspired you to learn more and pursue your goals
- helped you overcome a difficulty or challenging learning experience
How It Works
- Access and complete the online submission form.
- Enter the required information (including name of recipient, course name, semester).
- Compose your thank you note. Share any details you can to help them know why you are so thankful.
- Let us know whether you would like your name included or if you prefer to remain anonymous.
- You can also stop by the TLC (920 Madison, Room 424 in Memphis) during the week between 7:30am and 5:00pm.
The Teaching and Learning Center will send a thank you note to the person on your behalf. Please be aware that notes will be reviewed and distributed by the TLC.
Questions? Comments? Please contact the TLC.
About the Initiative
The Thank-a-Prof initiative launched in Spring 2025, based on a similar project at Columbia University. In recognition of the many excellent educators at UT Health Science Center, this initiative provides our students with an opportunity to show their appreciation for those who have impacted their learning.
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Dr. Sheila Criswell Guess who? I saw this little thank-a-prof and wanted to take the opportunity to show a little bit of my gratitude. Even though you grill us during review session or tease us during the laboratory sessions, I appreciate all the time and effort you have given us. All those tips and tricks you taught me has really helped in my rotation and I will forever be grateful for them! It was really great seeing you during the conference and I hope you have a great rest of the year! Even though I will not be having any class with you next semester, I will still look forward to seeing you from time to time. Oh, if any of your projects with the first years require an extra hand in the lab, I would be more than happy to help next semester (just offering in case you would like some help!).
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Dr. Angela Mallard Thank you for being so considerate in the way you draft your lectures! You are consistently clear in the way you organize and present information. Thorax was by far one of the easiest to comprehend sections for last block. I know I speak for a lot of the M1s for this thank you. GOAT. -Anonymous |
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Dr. Marcia Sharp Thank you so much for your encouragement throughout each trimester. Thank you for your willingness to help and answer all my questions. You have made my college experience a positive one, and I am very grateful to have such a great Professor in my corner. -Anonymous |
| Dr Sharp makes time to ensure students are well prepared to succeed in not only her class but in the degree as a whole. She is always fast at responding to emails, eager to help, and is someone I know that I can reach out to as a mentor throughout my academic journey. I appreciate that Dr. Sharp is very understanding and kind.
-Anonymous |
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Dr. Woods, There are so many ways you have impacted both my education and my life, shaping me into the future OT I aspire to be, as well as the person I am becoming. Your kindness and caring heart toward each of your students never go unnoticed. The way you teach the Mental Health course—with respect, responsiveness, and compassion—creates an environment where all students can feel comfortable and supported, and I am grateful for that. Thank you for guiding me as my mentor. You have shaped me to be stronger and more resilient in facing challenges. Your commitment and hard work are inspiring, and I deeply appreciate the dedication and care you put into your teaching and your students. -Samaria Sims
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Dr. Orli Weisser-Pike Thank you for all that you do for your students. I appreciate all the support you have provided along the way in Biomechanics and other courses you have taught. You have made a positive impact in my life by showing that professors truly care about their students’ education and learning in the classroom. Dr. Wessier-Pike exemplifies compassion, character, and love for occupational therapy, which is evident through her interactions with students. Thank you for all that you have done to support me throughout OT school—you deserve to be recognized for your hard work and dedication. -Samaria Sims |
| Dr. Lancaster provides some of the most fun community outing and resources as a Professor to her students and it is so greatly appreciated. I have definitely done the most fun projects, outings, and heard from some of the most interesting guest speakers. I appreciate your effort to bring in these resources coupled with your own to bring OT to life each class session!
-Anonymous |
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Dr. Williams is a book of knowledge- he knows a little bit of something about everything. He brings his work experience to lecture every day, and his stories make you want to work in each setting he’s worked in. He’s a great resource for having subjects explained more in depth, and he will take the time to make sure you understand the why behind what we do as OTs. I love learning from Dr. Williams! -Anonymous |
| Dr. Zachry goes above and beyond in bringing her knowledge to the classroom. She knows so much about what seems like EVERYTHING pediatric related. She has been a valuable mentor to learn what a knowledgeable, yet humble, occupational therapist is. I have loved having her as my professor in this program!
-Anonymous |
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Michelle Abramovitz Thank you for your positive attitude throughout clinic and class. You are very knowledgeable & helpful. We enjoy having you in clinic!! -Madison Andrew |
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Simran Flagg Thank you for all of your kind help! You are very knowledgeable & helpful in every way!!! Thank you for being awesome!!!! -Madison Andrew |
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Dr. Barret-Ray, Wow. This is the first word that comes to mind whenever I think about you. Your strength and courage are admirable. The epitome of a God-fearing, strong black woman! Thank you, Dr. Barret, for teaching me that you never run from your discomfort; you look it right in the eye, clinically and personally. You made me face my fears, and for that, I am grateful. Keep being strong, Dr. Barret. Nursing needs you. The world needs you. -Brianna Beverly |
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Shelley Miller Thank you for always believing in me even when I didn’t believe in myself. You are such a light and always have so much hope in all of your students. Thank you for never giving up on me. You are such a great teacher and did not fail to make a mark on everyone around you. So are so genuine, kind, and caring! Thank you for everything you do! -Anonymous |
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Mrs. Seymour, You were the beginning of my clinical journey in learning how to become a nurse. Whenever one of my clinical instructors asked who I had in clinicals, and I mentioned your name, the crowd went wild! You drilled me on labs and reinforced the importance of understanding the pathophysiology of my patient. I needed that, Mrs. Seymour. I have found my purpose in nursing, and I am pleased to inform you that I am pursuing a career as a CRNA, and that pathophysiology is going to come in handy now. Thank you, Mrs. Seymour. -Brianna Beverly |
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Dr. Sweatman, In the current world of medical education dominated by “anki” and “sketchy”, I can’t tell you how much I appreciated the depth of knowledge that you shared with us in each of your lectures. A lot of things in medical school are memorization, but you gave me an opportunity to build frameworks upon basic knowledge and taught me to think critically and logically in the realm of pharmacology. The type of thinking your lectures inspire is exactly what thinking like a doctor is about (in my opinion), And I’m glad that I got to take part. -Anonymous |
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Dr. Chester Brown, I just want to say thank you for sharing such a touching story with our class during our M1 year during your discussion of Mitochondrial disorders. Your passion for your patients and willingness to be vulnerable in a room full of strangers is something that has stuck with me since your lecture, over a year later. I know you have inspired many to have the same level of compassion! Ellis Ann Jackson |
| Hi Ms. Peeler! I hope everything ok with your November (hopefully you are getting much needed rest!). Thank you so much for all the times you accommodated us when we wanted to take some of our exams either later or earlier, I really appreciate it! Your consideration and efforts do not go unnoticed! I hope you have a great rest of your year and I look forward to seeing you again in January! |
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Dr. Melissa Taylor Thank you for being such a clear and detailed lecturer! I know I speak for so many M1s when I say we really appreciate your presentations and way of articulating the information. -Anonymous |
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Dr. Williams, Thank you for everything you have taught us since the beginning of OT school. Your humor, laughter, and wealth of knowledge have greatly impacted my experience in the program. Your compassion and wholesome way of teaching have opened many doors for me to think more clinically and to grow within the profession of Occupational Therapy. I truly appreciate all that you do. -Samaria Sims |
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Thank you, Professor Hilsdon, for preparing me for my Level I and Level II fieldwork rotations. Your interactive classroom activities, detailed guidance on site requirements, and many other lessons have been helpful in getting us ready to practice OT in the real world. I truly appreciate all that you do, especially your encouragement and willingness to listen whenever I needed to discuss something. Your feedback is always thoughtful and it has made a real difference in my growth as a student and future OT. -Samaria Sims |
| Thank you, Dr. Zachry, for all that you do for the students and the OT program as a whole. I recognize your diligence and the huge responsibility you take on as Department Chair—a role you fulfill exceptionally well. Thank you for the time and effort you put into teaching us and for giving us insight into pediatrics. You have been my cheerleader along the way, helping me navigate learning and teaching us better ways to grasp the material. You are such a kind and caring professor, and you are truly valued.
–Samaria Sims |
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Thank you Professor Hilsdon for taking the brunt work of placing students all around Memphis and beyond to provide us with unforgettable OT fieldwork experiences. Thank you as well for taking the time to make your lectures real-life relatable of topics we are not aware are coming our way yet in the field, and helping us prepare for them the best way we can. I appreciate all you have done so far in our program and I hope to work next to OTs as knowledgeable as you one day! -Anonymous |
| Dr. Woods is a genuine, kind, and helpful Professor. She truly wants you to succeed in all areas of your life beyond your student status. She has helped me grow to trust my instincts in becoming an OT in and outside the classroom. She makes learning fun with so many community opportunities. She does a wonderful job bringing in resources beyond herself and brings in other cultures for us to learn from. She also is there to lift you up when you’re having a bad day. I’ve learned so much from Dr. Woods in how to become a well-rounded OT, and grow into being a well-rounded human being.
-Anonymous |
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Simran Flagg Thank you so much for being an amazing teacher! You have truly been such an amazing role model and am thankful to be one of your students! The way you are passionate about your job and career in dental hygiene is inspiring and is the only reason I am motivated to move forward in the career myself. You help me and my peers learn on every learning level and never judge any of us! Thank you for all you do every day!! -Anonymous |
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Simran Flagg I genuinely would not have made it without your encouraging words and kind heart! The amount of time and effort you put into to making sure our class grasped what you were teaching was phenomenal. I have never had such a pure hearted instructor before you, and you reminded me every day that this profession was for me no matter how hard it got! -Anai Flores |
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Mrs. Flagg, I could not put it in words with how thankful I am for you and all you have done for me! Not only being the best teacher I have ever had but going the extra mile to make sure I was okay outside of school. You constantly checked on me and always knew what to say to help me through my struggles! You made such a huge impact on my life and made me realize what a GOOD professor was. You not only did this while teaching other classes but also taking your own classes and having such a busy life! I will always remember the things you did for me and how much you have helped me through DH school so far!! Thank you for all you have done even when you didn’t have to!! -Anonymous |
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Dr. Reilly, Thank you so much for all of your time, dedication, and support each semester. You are a great professor and your engagement never goes unnoticed. I appreciate you—thank you!! -Anonymous |
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Dr. Erby, thank you for making my first semester of nursing school less stressful! Your passion for nursing and commitment to your students, both in class and clinical, made understanding and implementing the material so much easier. I am genuinely grateful to have had you as a teacher! -Anonymous |
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Dr. Webb, I can’t thank you enough for pouring into me and my writing. You have pushed me to outdo myself, allocate my resources, and invest in my craftsmanship. I still struggle to fathom the improvement in my writing. The thought of pursuing my DNP has scared me because I didn’t think I had the means to write a doctoral paper. Well, you’ve changed that, Dr. Webb, and for that, I am grateful. Keep pouring into young nurses, Dr. Webb, we need you. Brianna Beverly |
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I am so thankful for Dr. Kennel’s ability to teach us. She is the type of instructor that will teach with tough love, and at the end of the day will answer all the questions you didn’t even know you had. She is passionate about her class, Concepts 2, and it shows on her teachings and class material. Definitely one of the best professors of the program! -Anonymous |
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Dr. Keisha Burnett Hi Dr. B! I hope everything is going well with you in November! Happy early Thanksgiving <3 Thank you for all the times you were patient with me despite the number of emails I send about inquiries. I really appreciate all the time and help you have given me throughout this program, and I look forward to seeing you again in January! |
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Dr. Jacen Moore Dr. Moore exemplifies compassion, understanding, and goes beyond to help his students in every possible way to be successful in every aspect of learning. He is always willing to help, provide guidance, and encourage you through every portion of the program. I appreciate you and your positive energy! You are amazing! Thank you for keeping me grounded. -Anonymous |
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Teresa O’Daniel Thank you for helping me with radiology lab you make my life so much easier! YOU ARE SO AMAZING AND AWESOME — maddie beth mcclerkin |
| Dr. Sharp Taking MHIM 603 this summer was a deeply rewarding experience. One I’ll carry with me throughout my professional journey. The course not only expanded my leadership toolkit, but also came at a critical time in my career. Amid an unexpected workforce reduction at my organization, I found myself suddenly stepping into leadership responsibilities previously held by my VP and director. The timing couldn’t have been more relevant. One of the standout aspects of this course was the assigned reading, The 360-Degree Leader by John Maxwell. It instantly became one of my top ten favorite books. The concepts around influence, resilience, and leading from any position resonated deeply with me and helped me navigate complex transitions with clarity and confidence. I’ve recommended the book to colleagues, friends, and even family. Its insights transcend industries and roles. The real strength of MHIM 603 lies in how applicable and empowering it is. The lessons didn’t just stay in the classroom; they helped me cope, adapt, and lead in the face of disruption. I’ve found myself referencing course frameworks when managing cross-functional teams and making strategic decisions under pressure. I also appreciate how the course fostered a supportive learning environment that encouraged open dialogue and growth. Because of my experience, I’ve recommended this program to several people in my network. It’s not just a leadership course, it’s a resource for transformation, especially for those navigating change or looking to lead with intention. Thanks for all you do!!
-Anonymous |
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Sajeesh Kamala Raghaven Thank you for the time and effort you invested in teaching me. Your ability to present innovate and relevant information inspires me to think more critically about health care. Thank you for sharing your expertise and fostering an environment where curiosity and growth are valued. –Deborah Graham |
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Thank you, Dr. Kipkulei, for all that you have done for the program and for your students. You have taught me the true value of Evidence-Based Practice and the importance of researching to best serve future clients. Your guidance throughout the program, along with your wise and kind words, has made a lasting impact on me. I am grateful for the way you have invested in both my education and the advancement of Evidence-Based Practice within the program. Your dedication, resilience in the face of challenges, and commitment to excellence are truly inspiring. You deserve to be recognized for your hard work and dedication. -Samaria Sims |
| Dr. Lancaster, there is so much I can thank you for. Thank you for shining a light in my life and guiding me in developing my skills as a future leader. You stand strong in who you are, both as a person and as a professor. You have shown me what it takes to learn and grow, as a student and as a future OT. Thank you for all your encouraging words and for speaking highly of all the students in our cohort. You have had a positive impact on my life as a Spark Group Leader, Faculty Advisor for SOTA, and professor. I look up to you in so many ways and truly appreciate all that you do.
-Samaria Sims |
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Pamela Lewis-Kipkulei, Thank you for all your help this past year! It is greatly appreciated! -Anonymous |
| Dr. Weisser-Pike- Thank you for being probably one of the coolest professors I have ever had. You bring your real-life experience to class each day, and make each topic fun, important, and relatable. I hope to be as successful in my career as you one day!
-Anonymous |
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Dr. Pamela Lewis-Kipkulei, Thank you for always being willing to help during class and in your office about anything research related or advice related! I appreciate your candor, and for making tough subjects seem manageable. I have loved learning from you! -Anonymous |
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Ms. Stewart, It has been such a joy listening to you teach and share your knowledge on nursing and the concepts of leadership. You are truly an inspiration in the nursing world. I hope to one day be as good a leader as you are. You have taught me the values of being a leader. You are LEADERSHIP! Thank you for everything. -Brianna Beverly |
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Michelle Abramovitz Thank you for all your positive mindset and all the pep talks after clinic! You truly work so hard for everyone and it does not go unnoticed! -Anai Flores |
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Simran Flagg Thank you for being so patient with all of us and making us feel like we matter! It is refreshing to have someone who wants to see all of their students succeed while giving us constructive criticism. We appreciate you! -Anonymous |
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Kevin Reilly Thank you for the best class and always being so understanding! You are awesome. –Bailey Lipman |
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Dr. Hearne is always eager to teach, caring, very personable, and attentive! She teaches for us to understand and always challenges us in creative ways. She shows up for us even in the midst of personal situations and I am so thankful! -Madison Burton |
| Thank you Cody (Whitefoot) for such a great job with Ortho 3! We love you!
-Anonymous |
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Dr. Nakeisha Shepherd I am so thankful for the way you challenged us, uplifted us, and motivated us to learn. You have such a gift for teaching, and your passion is evident in everything you do. The creativity you bring to explaining complicated concepts truly makes a difference. It has been a privilege to learn from you and to have the opportunity to emulate your nursing skills and knowledge. -Anna Lunsford |
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Dr. Shepherd, I am so thankful for the knowledge you instilled in me in our clinical and lectures. In just seven short weeks, I have learned a great deal from you. You have inspired me to pursue my dreams of becoming a CRNA even more. I am also elated to inform you that Baptist has offered me a position in the Medical ICU. Thank you for telling me not to settle. You are truly the best instructor I’ve had in my nursing journey, and I am deeply grateful for that. -Brianna Beverly
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