Beebe and Hallan recognized for Exceptional Moments in Teaching
Karisa Beebe, DO, faculty member, and David Hallan, MD, resident, were recognized through the “Exceptional Moments in Teaching” program for the month of December.
Dr. Beebe is an assistant professor in the Department of Surgery at Penn State College of Medicine.
“Dr. Beebe exemplifies what it means to be someone who gives back to those who come after her. She embodies the heart of a teacher, going the extra mile for those under her tutelage, in both the OR and the clinic,” one student said. “Dr. Beebe is the most patient surgeon I have ever met. She taught me how to suture the right way, cutting no corners. She watched me put in every stitch, carefully inspecting my work, letting me know techniques to improve, even going so far as to guide my hand with her own. She never made me feel bad for any mistake. I am a naturally anxious student who is unsure of myself. Dr. Beebe did not let me doubt myself for a second, frequently encouraging me. She was excited for my achievements and forgiving with my mistakes. When I am a surgeon one day, I want to be like Dr. Beebe – a kind, gracious and understanding mentor who role models what it means to lead in the OR graciously and with compassion.”
In addition to physician, Dr. Beebe’s favorite titles include daughter, sister, aunt, dog mom and friend. Originally from Erie, Pennsylvania, she completed her residency at UPMC and a fellowship at Christiana Care.
“I am passionate about providing compassionate, comprehensive and excellent care to all my patients dealing with breast cancer or other forms of breast disease,” Dr. Beebe said. “I am thankful for the opportunity to teach surgical residents and medical students. It gives me extreme pride to know that I am helping to shape the future leaders in medicine.”
Outside of the hospital, she enjoys traveling, board games and spending time with friends, family and her dog.
The resident awardee, Dr. Hallan, is a fifth-year neurosurgery resident in the Department of Neurosurgery.
“Dr. Hallan provided a safe and positive environment for students to ask questions. Even at very inconvenient busy times he was patient and made an effort to teach and involve students in patient visits/procedures,” said a student. “He helped further our knowledge of various neurosurgical pathologies and management plans. He corrected us and provided feedback without being condescending. He was respectful to all learners even when we didn’t know any of the answers. He is a wonderful physician and role model who motivates students to pursue neurological surgery.”
Dr. Hallan chose neurosurgery as a specialty because it “deals with irreplaceable tissue that makes up the essence of who we are. This profession, therefore, mandates a life-long pursuit of excellence – there is always something to improve on, knowledge to learn and skills to hone because every surgical move can make all the difference. A career in neurosurgery allows me to pursue this excellence with other like-minded individuals.”
Dr. Hallan is leaning toward a focus on vascular neurosurgery, with an interest in open microsurgery as well as endovascular treatment. When not in the hospital, he can be seen spending time with family and friends or settling down to read a good book.
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.
If you're having trouble accessing this content, or would like it in another format, please email Penn State Health Marketing & Communications.