Alaska WWAMI faculty members who have made an extraordinary impact on medical education were also honored during the poster presentation in Anchorage on November 10, 2025. Teaching awards across both the Foundations and Clinical Phases recognized instructors whose dedication, expertise, and mentorship elevate the student experience.
Foundations Phase Teaching Awards
- Anne Musser, DO — Outstanding Clinical Teaching Award
Dr. Musser was recognized for her strong ability to connect foundational science with clinical practice, offering clear, supportive guidance that helps students feel confident as they enter the next stages of their training. - Carol Paredes, MD — Excellence in Teaching Award
Known for her enthusiasm, clarity, and deep commitment to students, Dr. Paredes consistently creates an engaging and encouraging learning environment. Her approachable teaching style and genuine care have made a lasting impression on the Foundations cohort.
Clinical Phase Teaching Awards
- Dr. Cortney Hess — Rural Clinical Teaching Award
Alaska WWAMI alumna, Dr. Hess has practiced full-spectrum family medicine in Petersburg since 2014 and has been a committed preceptor for the Family Medicine Clerkship. Students consistently praise the clerkship for its comprehensive, hands-on rural training environment. Dr. Hess’s steady dedication has made her an invaluable mentor to Alaska WWAMI learners. - Dr. Rick Navitsky — Clinical Teaching Award
For more than 12 years, Dr. Navitsky has contributed to Alaska WWAMI as an Emergency Medicine preceptor, Foundations Phase guide, and lead clinician for the Admissions Committee. His enthusiasm, clinical expertise, and memorable stories, from Peace Corps service in Nepal to Mountain Search and Rescue work, bring energy and perspective to student learning.These teaching awards highlighted the educators whose mentorship and commitment have shaped and inspired many current and future Alaska physicians.