Coordinator of the Year 2023

Christine Phung, MPH

University of California San Francisco

As the Course Coordinator for the Coda course at the UCSF School of Medicine, Christine has demonstrated unparalleled dedication, ingenuity, and adaptability, especially during and following the challenging times brought on by the pandemic. Throughout her tenure as the Coda course coordinator, Christine has exhibited exceptional leadership and management skills. In the wake of the pandemic, when traditional educational practices were disrupted, she responded with incredible resourcefulness. Christine’s ability to seamlessly transition between a variety of learning formats, including virtual, hybrid, and in-person modalities, has been commendable and has contributed significantly to the success of the course. 

Christine's unwavering commitment to student success and her genuine concern for their well-being have been evident in all her actions. She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that every student's voice is heard and that their specific needs are met. By providing personalized attention and support, Christine has created a learning environment that fosters growth, engagement, and enthusiasm among the students.

Christine has also demonstrated an unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. She ensures all our sessions maintain an equity lens, and she has helped to incorporate novel anti-oppressive content into the course. Christine also personally ensures that every student feels valued, respected, and empowered. By recognizing and embracing the diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and aspirations of our students, Christine has helped to foster a positive learning climate, and she has made a profound impact on their learning journey. Christine's willingness to listen to students' concerns and address their challenges has not only fostered an environment of trust but has also encouraged students to actively engage in Coda.

Under Christine's guidance, the Coda course has achieved remarkable success, becoming one of the highest-rated courses in our entire medical school. The positive feedback from students, faculty, and staff alike reflects her exceptional leadership and dedication to excellence. Her commitment to continuous improvement has led to the enhancement of the course content, delivery methods, and overall student experience.

Beyond her role as a coordinator, Christine has been an invaluable member of our academic community. She actively collaborates with other faculty members and administration, contributing innovative ideas and solutions that have positively impacted the medical school as a whole. Christine’s exceptional ingenuity, flexibility, and student-centric approach have set her apart.

Prior Award Recipients

Linda Giordano

2022 Coordinator of the Year Award

University of South Florida

2022 Coordinator of the Year Award

Kimberly Turner

University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston

2021 Coordinator of the Year Award

Anthony Gaynier, MS

Wayne State University School of Medicine

2020 Coordinator of the Year Award

Danielle Cacciatore

NYU Grossman School of Medicine