Learning Environment: Mitigating mistreatment and promoting excellence

At VCU School of Medicine, we strive to foster an equitable, inclusive environment that is free from bias, discrimination and harassment, where our students can safely learn and thrive. We hold our students, trainees and faculty to high standards, and expect professionalism and mutual respect among all learners and educators.

With a commitment to transparency at all levels, when issues arise that deviate from our values, we provide the support and advocacy students need to address and resolve their concerns. 

Read the full learning environment and student mistreatment reporting policy here, and other School of Medicine policies here

Learning Environment Exemplars

Thank you to our 2023 and 2024 Learning Environment Exemplars:

  • Ruhan Farsin, Internal Medicine
  • Charles Anderson, Physiology
  • Travis Baity, Psychiatry
  • Savindu Botheju, Geriatrics
  • Christian Barrett, Internal Medicine
  • Michael Amendola, Surgery
  • Katelyn Edel, OBGYN
  • Mathula Thangarajh, Neurology
  • Michael Eiswerth, Internal Medicine
  • Mathula Thangarajh, Neurology
  • Samantha Giaccio, OBGYN (Riverside)
  • Christopher Henry, Neurology
Egyptian Building

Personalized Assistance

Informal discussions and support may be obtained through many different individuals. These include but are not limited to:

  • Peer advocates
  • Supervising resident or fellow
  • Attending physician
  • Course/clerkship directors and coordinators
  • Assistant and associate deans within the Office of Medical Education
  • Senior associate dean for medical education and student affairs
  • Senior associate dean for diversity, equity, and inclusion
  • Vice dean and senior associate dean for faculty affairs
  • Dean of the School of Medicine

These individuals are available to debrief situations, offer support and refer students to relevant university support services.