Four Montana physicians have been honored with WRITE Excellence in Teaching Awards, recognizing their outstanding commitment to mentoring medical students and helping shape the next generation of rural physicians.
The annual awards are based on nominations from students participating in the WRITE (WWAMI Rural Integrated Training Experience) program, a longitudinal rural clerkship that places University of Washington School of Medicine students in communities across the WWAMI region. Nominators highlighted the physicians’ dedication to teaching, patient care, leadership and community engagement.
In Butte, family physician Dr. Carey Downey was recognized for her thoughtful mentorship, high expectations and commitment to community-centered care. Students praised her ability to challenge learners while providing meaningful support and encouragement. One nominator noted that Dr. Downey consistently pushed students to grow clinically while modeling compassionate care for patients facing significant social and financial barriers. Students also highlighted her efforts to improve community health, including work to expand access to treatment and healthy food resources.
Dr. KayCee Gardner, a family physician in Miles City, was recognized for creating hands-on learning opportunities and fostering student confidence. Nominators described Dr. Gardner as a passionate advocate for medical students who ensures they are actively involved in patient care, procedures and clinical decision-making. Students said her willingness to teach, regardless of how busy the day becomes, has had a lasting impact on their training and professional development.
In Lewistown, family physician Dr. Michael Sura was honored for cultivating a supportive learning environment where students can develop clinical skills and build meaningful patient relationships. Students praised his commitment to providing real-time feedback, reviewing cases beyond clinic hours and helping learners experience the full scope of rural family medicine. One student noted that Dr. Sura intentionally created opportunities for longitudinal patient care, allowing them to follow patients through multiple stages of treatment and better understand continuity of care.
Dr. Rachel Heuer, a family physician in Dillon, was recognized for her dedication to evidence-based teaching and her ability to challenge students in ways that promote growth. Students described how she carefully matched patient cases to their learning needs, creating opportunities to build clinical knowledge and confidence while emphasizing the importance of understanding and applying current medical guidelines. Nominators also praised her commitment to teaching early in her career, taking on the role of preceptor while simultaneously establishing her own practice.
Together, these physicians exemplify the spirit of the WRITE program and the vital role rural preceptors play in training future physicians. Through their mentorship, they are helping students develop the skills, confidence and community-focused perspective needed to serve patients across Montana and the WWAMI region.