Mamarabadi and Burrows recognized for Exceptional Moments in Teaching
Mansoureh Mamarabadi, MD, faculty member, and Parker Burrows, MD, resident, were recognized through the “Exceptional Moments in Teaching” program for the month of October.
Dr. Mamarabadi is an associate professor of neurology.
“Dr. Mamarabadi fundamentally changed the way I approach learning. She consistently challenged me to think beyond surface-level answers and encouraged me to consider the broader context of patient care,” said a student. “She held me to a high standard, but always in a way that felt supportive. She saw potential in me even when I doubted myself, and that confidence pushed me to grow. What stood out most was her honesty and authenticity. I’m a better learner, and a better future physician, because of her mentorship.”
Dr. Mamarabadi joined the College of Medicine and Penn State Health after completing her neurology residency at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, New Jersey, followed by a fellowship in neuromuscular medicine at the Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio. She currently serves as director of the Hershey Muscular Dystrophy Association Clinic and program director of the Neuromuscular Medicine Fellowship. Dr. Mamarabadi’s clinical and research interests focus on the care of patients with muscular dystrophy and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. She is passionate about medical education, and working with trainees is one of the highlights of her day.
Outside the hospital, Dr. Mamarabadi enjoys traveling with her husband (a proud attending at Penn State Health) and daughter, discovering new foods and binging TV shows.
The resident awardee, Dr. Burrows, is a third-year anesthesia resident in the Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine.
“Dr. Burrows is an exceptionally kind and supportive resident who made a lasting impact on my anesthesia rotations,” one student said. “He consistently took the time to teach and provide constructive feedback in a way that boosted my confidence. His approachable demeanor made it easy to ask questions and stay engaged throughout the day. I truly appreciate his mentorship and the trust he placed in me as a medical student learner. Truly, working with Dr. Burrows changed my life as I am now fully committed to the idea of becoming an anesthesiologist myself.”
Dr. Burrows was born and raised in Ogden, Utah. He attended the College of Medicine for medical school and continued his residency training here as well. He has chosen anesthesiology for the great opportunity to help people during important, and sometimes, difficult times in their lives. Dr. Burrows is drawn to anesthesiology for the hands-on procedures, the complex physiology and the critical thinking required for emergent situations. He is also pursuing an anesthesiology fellowship in cardiothoracic anesthesia.
In his free time, Dr. Burrows enjoys difficult hikes, automotive work, exercising, pickleball, and spending time with his wife and three 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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