CDU Honors the Heart of the University at 12th Annual Outstanding Faculty Awards
Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science (CDU) held the 12th Annual Outstanding Faculty Awards Ceremony and Dinner Reception — a celebration of the educators who are at the core of the University’s mission and play a vital role in driving student success.
Since the awards program began in 2008, CDU has honored faculty whose commitment to teaching, mentorship, and community engagement reflect the University’s mission to develop diverse health leaders dedicated to social justice and health equity. This annual tradition recognizes faculty selected through campus wide nominations reviewed by the Academic Senate.
This year, YuFu Kuo, DC, MS, Assistant Professor and Academic Coordinator in the Physician Assistant Program, received the Outstanding Teaching Award for his student-centered approach and excellence in instruction. Dr. Kuo teaches a range of essential courses including Human Anatomy, Pathophysiology, Principles of Medicine-MSK module, and Diagnostic Skills and Procedures.
Jorge N. Artaza, MS, PhD, Associate Professor and Chair of the Biomedical Sciences Department, was honored with the Outstanding Professor Award for his long-standing contributions to student learning and research across undergraduate and graduate programs. His courses include General Microbiology and Immunology for undergraduates, and Advances in Hematology & Immunology, Infectious Diseases, and Translational Research Methods at the graduate level.
“Whether in the classrooms, in the labs, or serving in communities, I am constantly inspired by the passion that defines CDU,” said Artaza. “This award motivates me to keep growing, keep listening, and keep contributing in every way that I can.”
David M. Carlisle, MD, PhD, CDU President and CEO, underscored the importance of faculty in shaping the University experience and its impact on students, stating, “This is a hallmark celebration of this university. I’m very proud of, not just the award winners, but all of our faculty because I think faculty are a true strength of Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science.”