Paul and Griffith recognized for Exceptional Moments in Teaching
Dustin Paul, DO, faculty member, and Shantelle Griffith, MD, resident, were recognized through the “Exceptional Moments in Teaching” program for the month of January.
Dr. Paul is an assistant professor of pediatrics and neurology at Penn State College of Medicine.
“Dr. Paul was one of the best attendings I have had the pleasure of working with. I worked with him during my Child Neurology service, initially having very little exposure to the field. However, Dr. Paul took every chance to provide education both while on service and suggested helpful topics to research for my own education,” one student said. “Dr. Paul is truly an exceptional teacher who stands out for his emphasis on teaching humanistic medicine, superb teaching abilities, and commitment to creating a respectful learning environment.”
Dr. Paul is a board-certified pediatric neurologist and pediatric neuro-muscular specialist. He was born and raised in Philadelphia and his family is originally from Kerala, India. He obtained his bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from the University of Pennsylvania in 2007, where he was a Vagelos Scholar. Dr. Paul obtained his master’s degree in chemistry from State University of New York Buffalo State University in 2010 and his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2013. He then completed his pediatric residency and pediatric neurology fellowship at the University of Texas McGovern Medical School/MD Anderson Cancer Center in 2018. Dr. Paul continued his graduate medical education and specialized in pediatric neuromuscular medicine at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas in 2019. Dr. Paul joined the College of Medicine in 2022.
Outside of medicine, Dr. Paul is a husband and father. His hobbies include long-distance running, and he is an active member of the Indian Orthodox Church.
The resident awardee, Dr. Griffith, is a second-year dermatology resident in the Department of Dermatology.
“Shantelle extended my knowledge of dermatology by demonstrating how to be a caring and dedicated physician to her patients,” said a student. “She always had a positive attitude and made her patients feel safe and seen. She also made me as a learner feel like an active member of the patient care team and provided meaningful mentorship and feedback throughout my 4-week rotation. She is someone who helps learners feel supported and encouraged in the learning environment.”
Dr. Griffith was raised in Georgia and completed her undergraduate, master’s, and medical training there in her home state. She chose to train in dermatology because it provided a safe learning space as well as a unique opportunity to work alongside some of the nation’s experts within the field of dermatology. After graduation, she is looking forward to practicing within general dermatology, ideally in the academic setting.
When not in clinic, Dr. Griffith can be found exploring Hershey and traveling with her fiancé and two kids.
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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