Educational Mentor of the Year Award

Monica Lypson, MD, MHPE Named Apgar Academy

2026 Educational Mentor of the Year

In recognition of sustained engagement in the lives of students, trainees, clinicians, and scholars at Columbia and throughout the nation, Monica Lypson, MD, MHPE has been nominated and selected as the 2026 Virginia Apgar Academy for Medical Educators Mentor of the Year.

Dr. Lypson is a primary care internist with a national pedigree in medical education. With past leadership positions at University of Michigan Medical School, George Washington University, the National Veterans Administrations system, past president of the Society for General Internal Medicine, and high-level advisor to AAMC, ACGME, and the National Board of Medical Examiners, Dr. Lypson has influenced the full spectrum of medical education.

Monica Lypsonwas appointed as the Vice Dean of Education in July 2021 at CUIMC. In addition to her administrative leadership of the Office of Medical Education, she practices as a general internist in the Associates of Internal Medicine Group Practice. Her research interests include health professional trainee assessment, historical and contemporary trends in medical education, academic leadership, and the under-representation of minorities in academic medicine.She is recognized as an international leader in the role of health equity and justice.

Nominators of Dr. Lypson affirm that she “consistently recognizes strengths in others before they see them in themselves and holds them to standards that elevate both their work and their leadership skills.” Coupled with “steadfast support that undoubtedly advances the quality of their work and knowledge,” many mentees confirm that “by modeling and prioritizing inclusive excellence, equity, and professional growth . . . [she] brings out the best possible version of themselves” which in turn is “embedded into the fabric of the institution.”

We  applaud Dr. Lypson for this distinction and join with all her students and trainees in the deepest appreciation.  Dr. Lypson was recognized for this distinction at the annual Apgar Academy Celebration hosted April 29, 2026.