2024 Aspire to Inspire Teaching Program Dinner
Camarena Health proudly hosted its 4th Annual Aspire to Inspire Teaching Program Dinner on August 16th at our Tesoro Viejo Wellness Center. The evening was a celebration of the dedication and passion of our teaching faculty and partners who play a crucial role in shaping the future of healthcare in the Central Valley.
The dinner was followed by a heartfelt award ceremony recognizing the outstanding contributions of preceptors who have made a significant impact on students during the 2023-2024 academic year. The ceremony began with an inspiring speech from Ramses Sanchez, PA-C, who shared his personal journey through PA school and his transformative experience as a student at Camarena Health. He highlighted the unwavering commitment of our teaching faculty, whose tireless efforts continue to inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Our Advanced Practice Provider Lead and Teaching Faculty, Christopher Fasulo, also delivered a moving speech, reflecting on the growth of our teaching program since his own time as a student. He emphasized the importance of our numerous academic partnerships and the thriving, collaborative environment we’ve cultivated together.
Chief Executive Officer Paulo Soares and Chief Medical Officer Joel Ramirez took the stage to honor the exceptional teaching providers nominated by students in disciplines including Behavioral Health, Primary Care, and Dental. The awards presented during the evening included:
Excellence in Teaching Award: Ramses Sanchez, PA-C
Excellence in Teaching Affiliate Award: Frank Chimienti, PA-C
Promising New Preceptor Award: Soledad Reyes, NP
Outstanding Dental Preceptor Award: Dr. Abhi Thakkar
Outstanding Behavioral Health Preceptor Award: Janet Murrillo, LCSW
Preceptor of the Year Award: Russell Elms, NP
Camarena Health HEART Award: Dr. Peter Nassar
Champion Award: Cristina Rendon, BS
This year’s event was made even more special by the presence of students from various departments who joined us to celebrate alongside their preceptors. This gathering highlighted the successes in teaching and the profound, long-lasting impact it has on students.
As we look to the future, Camarena Health’s commitment to education only grows stronger. We are proud to see more and more students returning to practice and eventually becoming teachers themselves, continuing the cycle of excellence and inspiration.
