PHILADELPHIA, PA — The National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) has announced the election of four new at-large members to its Board of Directors. These accomplished leaders bring a wealth of expertise in medicine, education, law, and healthcare policy, aligning with NBME’s mission to advance the assessment of healthcare professionals to ensure optimal care for all.
The Board of Directors is charged with setting NBME’s strategy, guiding its policy initiatives, appointing executive leadership, and overseeing the organization’s budget. The new members will play a critical role in advancing these efforts.
Dr. Karen Hauer
Dr. Karen Hauer, vice dean of education at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), joins the board with a distinguished background in health professions education. Renowned for her research on competency-based medical education and equity in assessment, Dr. Hauer has earned numerous accolades, including the 2024 Hubbard Award and the ASPIRE International Award for excellence in student assessment. Her vision and contributions to coaching, remediation, and the use of artificial intelligence in medical education will provide forward-thinking leadership on the board.
Dr. Sorabh Khandelwal
Dr. Sorabh Khandelwal, a professor and program director for the Emergency Medicine Residency Program at The Ohio State University, brings decades of educational expertise. A recipient of multiple teaching awards, Dr. Khandelwal has been an influential figure in medical licensing and assessment, contributing to various USMLE® committees since 2009. His leadership roles within NBME include serving as vice chair of the USMLE Management Committee, ensuring his appointment strengthens the board’s commitment to innovative and rigorous healthcare assessment standards.
Vicki W. Girard, JD
A professor and faculty director of the Health Justice Alliance at Georgetown University, Vicki Girard combines her legal acumen with a commitment to health equity. Girard’s extensive experience in FDA regulatory matters and her advocacy for reducing health disparities make her a valuable asset to NBME’s mission. Her expertise in academic medical legal partnerships adds a critical dimension to the board’s approach in addressing systemic inequalities in healthcare.
Dr. Wilma Larsen
Dr. Wilma Larsen, a field surveyor for The Joint Commission, adds decades of clinical and leadership experience to the board. A former colonel in the U.S. Army, Dr. Larsen has held key military and civilian roles, including chief medical officer and director of fellowship programs. Her dedication to advancing obstetrics and gynecology, along with her leadership in academic medicine, underscores her ability to contribute effectively to NBME’s evolving priorities.
Acknowledging Departing Members
NBME also recognizes the vital contributions of departing members Marie Foley, PhD, RN, CNL; Maya Hammoud, MD, MBA; Danny M. Takanishi Jr., MD; and Zach Weismann, MPA. Their leadership has left a lasting impact on the organization’s work and vision.
Looking Ahead
The new appointments mark a significant step forward in NBME’s mission to improve health care assessment and advance equity in education and practice. With a robust blend of experience and innovation, the board is well-positioned to guide the organization in fostering excellence in medical assessments and shaping a diverse, equitable healthcare workforce.
These leaders will play an instrumental role in continuing NBME’s legacy of enhancing the competencies of healthcare professionals and ensuring better outcomes for patients worldwide.
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