Nathalie Feldman, M.D., Director of Learning Environment and education assistant professor of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive sciences (Photo: LCOM Creative Services)

Christa Zehle, M.D., associate dean for students, has announced that Nathalie Feldman, M.D., education assistant professor of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive sciences, has been appointed director of the Learning Environment in the Office of Medical Student Education at the Larner College of Medicine, effective May 2, 2017.

In this new position, Feldman will report to the associate dean for students and work closely and collaboratively with the Office of Medical Student Education, the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, the Student Affairs team and the Learning Environment and Professionalism Committee (LEAP).

Her new role focuses on supporting the College’s commitment to professionalism and a positive environment for learners across the academic medical center. Feldman is responsible for providing medical students with a neutral and safe environment to share their thoughts and/or concerns, listening to concerns and engaging in unbiased dialogue aimed at exploring options for optimal resolution. Feldman will also provide students with information on available resources specific to their concerns. She will not participate in existing academic processes or the academic assessment of learners, nor will she be involved in the formal adjudication process of grievances.

Currently the associate residency program director for the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Feldman has developed didactic curricula for both medical students and residents. She has previously served as a member of the Medical Admissions Committee, as well as acting associate dean for students in 2014. She is a founding member of the LEAP Committee, serves as a facilitator for the Professionalism, Communication and Reflection II course (Clerkship course), and is also an advisor for the Albert Schweitzer Fellowship Program. Feldman’s academic area of interest focuses on medical professionalism and innovations that help mitigate negative and enhance positive influences on the learning environment. She is also interested in exploring the hidden curriculum in medical education and its effect on professional identity formation, empathy, compassion and patient care. Feldman earned her undergraduate degree at Yale University, her medical degree at McGill University, and completed her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Tennessee. She has served as a private attending physician at UVM Medical Center since 1992, joined the UVM faculty in 2013 and was promoted to educational assistant professor in 2014.

Feldman can be contacted via email, phone at 802-656-5466 or at her office in the Hills Building, Room 11. Learn more about the Larner College of Medicine Learning Environment.