M2 Teacher of the Year honorees

Congratulations to Thomas Mike, M.D., assistant professor of clinical pediatrics, and Jason Kolb, M.D., associate professor of clinical emergency medicine, who were both named the College of Medicine’s 2025-2026 M2 Teachers of the Year.

Dr. Mike was honored by the Class of 2028 during the M3 Prerequisite to Clinical Curriculum Course Teacher of the Year presentation, held Monday, June 1, 2026.

Dr. Kolb was unable to attend the event; however he was still recognized.

Student Curriculum Council representatives Jason Collins and Shivane Chawla recognized Drs. Mike and Kolb for their dedication to students and excellence in teaching.

Below are selected comments submitted by students for both award recipients:

• “Dr. Kolb is an incredible educator who not only prioritizes our growth as future physicians, but also as well-rounded individuals. He always creates a safe space to discuss conflicting viewpoints and challenges us to think through problems in ways we might not be used to.”
• “Dr. Kolb knows almost everyone in our class by name and always stops to say hi or have a conversation.” That kindness and mentorship has meant a great deal to our class.
• “Dr. Mike’s lectures were always clearly guided by both practicality and empathy for the patient and their needs, which made it feel much more like learning about patient care instead of learning to pass a test.”
• “Dr. Mike's steadfast commitment to modeling and expecting professionalism elevated our classroom standards, firmly preparing us to be better clinical students and future physicians.”

Congratulations to Dr. Mike and Dr. Kolb!