UK College of Medicine Graduate Medical Education (GME) staff, program leaders and administrators gathered Aug. 26 at the Campbell House for the annual GME Retreat. The day focused on collaboration, professional development and ways to strengthen the educational experience for residents and fellows.
The retreat included the monthly Graduate Medical Education Committee meeting, as well as a conflict management workshop and specialty-focused breakout sessions. The event also featured its first dedicated poster session, giving participants an opportunity to showcase innovative projects and share ideas aimed at enhancing residency and fellowship training. The session highlighted the creativity and collaboration driving continuous improvement across GME programs.
In addition to the educational programming, the retreat recognized faculty and community partners whose dedication to teaching, mentorship and learner success has made a lasting impact on graduate medical education. Congratulations to the following:
Syed Rizvi, M.D., a psychiatry preceptor at New Vista in Lexington, received the Community Preceptor Award. The award honors individuals outside UK who provide exceptional teaching and mentorship for residents and fellows in community settings. Learners praised Rizvi for helping them navigate complex cases, prepare for board examinations and explore future career paths.
Sameer Desai, M.D., program director in the Department of Emergency Medicine, received the Program Director Excellence Award. Nominators described Desai as a tireless advocate for residents whose leadership, mentorship and commitment to learner success have helped guide the program through years of growth while maintaining a strong educational environment.
Denise Fabian, M.D., associate professor of radiation oncology, received the Faculty Teaching Award. Colleagues and learners recognized Fabian for creating a supportive learning environment that fosters curiosity, professional growth and confidence while modeling compassionate, patient-centered care.
Together, the retreat's educational sessions, poster presentations and award recognitions reflected the college's broader commitment to supporting educators, investing in learners and advancing graduate medical education across Kentucky.