This interview is one in a series of interviews with recipients of the 2022 ACGME Awards. The awardees join an outstanding group of previous honorees whose work and contributions to graduate medical education (GME) represent the best in the field. They will be honored at the ACGME Annual Educational Conference, taking place virtually March 30-April 1, 2022.
2022 Debra L. Dooley GME Program Coordinator Excellence Awardee Melissa Wheeler, MA, works as the residency coordinator for orthopaedic surgery at Summa Health.
ACGME: How did you become involved in academic medicine?
Melissa Wheeler: I became involved in academic medicine thanks to a recommendation from my friend from graduate school, Lisa Begue, M.S. We met while getting our master’s degrees in higher education administration. After graduation, I went to work in student affairs at several different universities, and she went to work in academic medicine. About seven years later, she recommended I apply for the residency coordinator position in orthopaedic surgery. I honestly didn’t understand the job I was applying for, but I was excited for the challenge of learning something new. During my first week, I remember asking my predecessor, Penny Labate, who had been in this role for 25 years, if I should call the residents “Dr. _____.” She laughed and said, “you’ll figure it out.” After six plus years in this role, I’ve definitely figured it out, and I also laugh at that question now.
ACGME: What does this award mean to you?
Wheeler: This award is such an honor, and I am genuinely touched that my residents and colleagues appreciate my efforts enough to take the time to recognize me for this award. I’ve always been passionate about education and leadership development. This award is validation that the work I’m doing has a meaningful impact on the lives of my residents in their development as orthopaedic surgeons.
ACGME: What is the most rewarding part of being a coordinator?
Wheeler: The most rewarding part of being a coordinator is the relationships I get to build with the residents and my program director. These relationships last long after their training is complete, and it’s rewarding to see them grow into successful leaders and surgeons. I am constantly being challenged in my own interpersonal and leadership skills with the diversity of the residents, faculty, and the work itself. Still, I love a challenge, and I wouldn’t want it any other way.
ACGME: What is the most challenging part of being a coordinator?
Wheeler: The most challenging part of being a coordinator is juggling all of the different roles and learning how to be an influencer and leader from a position that has historically been seen as administrative support.
ACGME: What advice do you have to brand-new coordinators who are just starting their careers?
Wheeler: My advice to new coordinators is not to get overwhelmed by all of the requirements. It will take you probably two full years to fully understand and be comfortable with everything. Spend that time building relationships and setting boundaries with your residents, program director, and faculty members.
Learn more about the ACGME’s Debra L. Dooley GME Program Coordinator Award and nominate a deserving program coordinator for the 2023 Award – nominations are due by April 6, 2022.