UNMC’s Interprofessional Academy of Educators has named members Teresa Cochran, DPT, PhD, and Kristen Cook, PharmD, as its 2025 Distinguished Educators.
The Distinguished Educator Award is the academy’s highest honor, given to faculty members who consistently demonstrate excellence in teaching and peer mentoring to promote the development of the next generation of effective and innovative teachers.
- Dr. Cochran is an associate professor and board-certified clinical specialist emerita in geriatric physical therapy in the UNMC College of Allied Health Professions at the Douglas A. Kristensen Rural Health Education Complex in Kearney. One of Dr. Cochran’s nominators said she exemplifies the visionary spirit celebrated by the Distinguished Educator designation. “Dr. Cochran is not only an exceptional educator but also a transformational one. She fosters a culture of teaching and learning that empowers others, improves outcomes and elevates the field.”
- Dr. Cook is a clinical associate professor and director of campus culture in the Department of Pharmacy Practice and Science, UNMC College of Pharmacy. Dr. Cook has long been recognized for her student-led focus and compassion. One of her nominators said, “Dr. Cook is a colleague that inspires those that she works with through her tireless commitment towards innovation and education for the students of today.”
Drs. Cochran and Cook were recognized at the Interprofessional Academy of Educators’ InnovatED Symposium, held on Sept. 30. The Distinguished Educator is an active designation, according to the IAE. Distinguished Educators must engage in at least three teaching or mentoring activities per year and complete a renewal process every five years to maintain the designation.
The Interprofessional Academy of Educators is comprised of nearly 300 faculty, staff and learners across Nebraska, with members from all five UNMC campuses, seven colleges and three partner organizations. Their mission is to cultivate a community across professions that connects educators with like interests to drive collaboration, innovation and scholarship.
Applications for IAE membership will open in spring 2026.
Congratulations Dr. Cochran and Dr. Cook! You are excellent educators and set the model for me to follow as I join you in teaching our great learners.