Allison Ashford, MD, associate professor in the UNMC Division of Hospital Medicine, and Geoffrey Thiele, PhD, professor in the UNMC Division of Rheumatology and Immunology, are the 2026 recipients of the Hirschmann Prize for Teaching Excellence, selected by the UNMC College of Medicine’s graduating class.
The Hirschmann Prize recognizes two faculty members, one pre-clinical and one clinical, who the senior class feels has contributed to the education of medical students. The prize was given to Dr. Ashford for clinical teaching and Dr. Thiele for pre-clinical teaching.
“Teaching has always been one of the most rewarding parts of my career,” said Dr. Ashford, who is also the program director for the internal medicine-pediatrics residency program. “My goal is to create an environment where learners feel challenged, supported and inspired to ask questions. To be recognized by the students themselves is an incredible honor. They continually remind me why I love academic medicine, and I am deeply honored by this recognition.”
Dr. Thiele said he feels privileged to be involved in all levels of medical student education.
“It never ceases to amaze me how rewarding I still find these interactions,” he said. “One of the clearest goals that I have set for myself as an educator is to try to make a difference in the way students approach their chosen professions. This award confirms that, at least on this one occasion, I have been able to accomplish that goal. I am completely humbled by the students choosing to recognize me in this way and thank them for acknowledging my efforts.”
The Hirschmann Prize was established in 2000 with a gift from UNMC College of Medicine graduates Jerome Hirschmann, a retired cardiologist, and his son, Richard Hirschmann, a pediatric anesthesiologist. Guidelines for nominations include innovative educational methods, professionalism and awareness of the educational needs of students. The award includes an accompanying monetary gift to fund educational projects or continuing education.
The award recipients were announced at the college’s annual honors convocation ceremony in May.