We are pleased to congratulate Dr. Karen Eilbeck on receiving the Reed M. Gardner Award for Faculty Excellence. Established in 2005, this student-led award recognizes faculty members in the Department of Biomedical Informatics and College of Nursing Informatics for outstanding contributions in teaching, mentoring, and service. Dr. Eilbeck’s commitment to student success, dedication to mentorship, and leadership in advancing biomedical informatics exemplify the spirit of this award, which is presented annually following a competitive nomination and selection process by a student committee.
“Her combination of humility, expertise, and availability creates a mentorship environment that is both empowering and impactful. Her guidance has been a defining part of my graduate school experience.”
“… her teaching extends beyond the classroom…”
“…she has been an admirable mentor and invaluable resource to draw upon in my times of need.”
“Her indefatigable commitment to her student’s success has meant she’s gone above and beyond what normally passes for mentorship to facilitate the best possible support network I can ever have.”
“Karen maintains numerous collaborations with researchers all over the world. She openly shares her contacts with her students when it can further their professional growth. To quote her words, she ‘enjoys connecting people together’.”
“Her dedication to our department’s education mission impacts every student that passes through the NTMS and PhD programs. Our department truly wouldn’t be the same without her.”
“Karen is a patient mentor. She allows us to learn at a pace that works for all of us. She is generous with her resources and ensures that we all have access to opportunities for growth as researchers.”
“Her gardening skills are impressive (both indoors and outdoors). She has a jade plant that is at least 22 years old!”