News and Events

UME Department Expands to Enhance Student Support and Clinical Education

Picture Above, left to right: Dr. Paige Johnson, Heather Johnson, Casey Heck, Ambra Turner, and Brittany Bracco

The Undergraduate Medical Education (UME) department at the University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine (UTGSM) continues to grow, expanding its support for medical students. One new position added last year, the Clinical Education Coordinator, plays a vital role in ensuring seamless clinical education experiences for allied health and advanced practice provider students. Casey Heck has served in this role since September 2024, overseeing APP rotations in a coordinated effort with UHS to improve experiences of our midlevel provider students. She collaborates with affiliated institutions, manages student onboarding, and acts as the key liaison between students, preceptors, and faculty. Her efforts help maintain strong partnerships and ensure students receive high-quality training opportunities.

"First, I'd like to say that I enjoy working with this team and that I'm happy to be a member. I hope to be part of the team for many years to come! My position is brand new, so I still have a lot to learn and room to grow which is simultaneously challenging and rewarding," said Casey Heck. "What brings me the most joy is helping future students with onboarding because helping others has always been a part of who I am. I love helping students, no matter how challenging the situation, because if students are thriving then so am I."

Joining the UME team this month, Ambra Turner will serve as the Administrative Assistant, providing essential support for third-year clerkships and fourth-year senior electives. She will assist with scheduling, student event coordination, proctoring exams, and managing key administrative tasks that keep the department running smoothly. Additionally, she will oversee the UME social media presence to enhance communication and engagement.

"Embracing this new position is not just a step forward in my career, but a chance to learn, grow and contribute in ways I've always aspired to. Coming from a department where leadership is defined by vision, integrity, and support, I'm inspired to carry forward these values, striving to empower others and lead by example in every new opportunity," said Ambra Turner. "I am most excited to be joining this UME team!"

"I am thrilled to welcome Casey and Ambra to our UME family," said Dr. Paige Johnson, Assistant Dean of UME. "Their dedication to supporting medical education and their enthusiasm for helping students succeed embodies the spirit of our mission here at UTGSM. As the region's only academic medical center, we are committed to ensuring the highest quality healthcare for our community and expanding our UME Department services with the expertise of both these women is a significant step toward that goal. Their contributions are already enhancing the quality of experience for our healthcare provider students and making a meaningful impact on our educational programs. We are fortunate to have such talented individuals join our team, and I look forward to seeing how their unique perspectives and skills will help shape the future of medical education at our institution."

Posted April 1, 2025