Harbaugh recognized for Exceptional Moments in Teaching

Kimberly Harbaugh, MD, professor in the Department of Neurosurgery, chief of the Division of Peripheral Nerve Surgery and a member of the Penn State Cancer Institute, is featured for May in the “Exceptional Moments in Teaching” program.

“Dr. Harbaugh was an amazing teacher and an inspiring role model for trainees at early stages like myself. After seeing patients with brachial plexus injury in the clinic, she then volunteered to spend the whole afternoon in the cadaver lab with us to dissect the brachial plexus from the beginning to the end,” as one student mentioned.

“Even though Dr. Harbaugh is a busy and accomplished neurosurgeon, she remains so dedicated to teaching that she does such “grunt work” with her trainees without hesitation. I’m so grateful for this opportunity, and now I can memorize the complex brachial plexus so much better. Thank you so much for your time, Dr. Harbaugh.”

Harbaugh completed a neurosurgery residency at Dartmouth College and a peripheral nerve fellowship at Louisiana State University. In addition to clinical practice, she has enjoyed teaching anatomy in various capacities for more than 25 years at both Dartmouth College and Penn State. Her professional interests include the study of peripheral nerve tumors and anatomical nuances in clinical practice.

She is also a wife and mother to three children and four pets and is involved with the Saint Joan of Arc School and parish community.

Penn State College of Medicine’s Office for a Respectful Learning Environment recognizes exceptional faculty, residents and fellows with the monthly “Exceptional Moments in Teaching” program. One faculty member and one resident/fellow are highlighted each month for their contributions. College of Medicine students are invited to submit narratives about faculty members, residents, nurses or any other educators who challenge them and provide an exceptional learning experience using the online nomination form.

The Office for a Respectful Learning Environment fosters an educational community at Penn State College of Medicine in which all learners and educators feel supported, challenged, valued and respected. It serves all learners at the College of Medicine: medical students, graduate students, physician assistant students, residents and fellows.

See previous faculty and resident/fellow honorees here.

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