معرفی
Kara Sawarynski, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor in the Department of Foundational Medical Studies at Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine (OUWB), where she also serves as Assistant Dean for Accreditation and Continuous Quality Improvement and Co-Director of the Embark Program. She plays a pivotal role in shaping the medical curriculum, overseeing student research projects, and advancing continuous quality improvement in medical education.
- Associate Professor, Department of Foundational Medical Studies
- Assistant Dean for Accreditation and Continuous Quality Improvement
- Embark Program Co-Director
- Former Vice Chair, Foundational Medical Studies Department (2019–2023)
- Former President, Faculty Assembly (2021–2023)
- Former Chair, OUWB Scholarship Committee (2016–2022)
- Member, OUWB Medical School Management Committee
Dr. Sawarynski earned her Ph.D. in Cancer Biology from Wayne State University School of Medicine and the Karmanos Cancer Institute, and her B.S. in Biomedical Sciences from Western Michigan University’s Lee Honors College.
Her research interests span both basic science and medical education. In basic science, she focuses on molecular and cellular mechanisms in cancer biology. In medical education, her work emphasizes research design instruction, medical student wellness, educational scaffolding for Gen Z learners, study skills, and educational technology development. She is passionate about creating inclusive and supportive academic environments.
Dr. Sawarynski is a nationally recognized leader in medical education, having completed the AAMC LEAD program, the OUWB Diversity Champion program, and Brené Brown’s Dare to Lead training. She has led institutional rollouts of Dare to Lead for faculty and staff and is expanding leadership development opportunities for students.
- AAMC Leadership Education and Development (LEAD) Certificate Program Graduate
- OUWB Diversity Champion Graduate
- Brené Brown’s Dare to Lead Training Certificate Program Graduate
As Embark Program Co-Director, she mentors medical students through their longitudinal research projects from year one through four. She has held key leadership roles in scholarship evaluation, faculty governance, and institutional management. Though specific grants are not listed, her programmatic leadership implies sustained administrative and educational funding support.
Dr. Sawarynski is actively involved in faculty development and institutional culture-building, leading training programs and serving on critical committees that shape policy, curriculum, and student success at OUWB.
