Jean E. Shelton, MD, professor and chair of the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, on Thursday received the institution's highest faculty honor, the Dean's Outstanding Faculty Award.

The Dean's Faculty Achievement Awards are the top accolade given to EVMS researchers, educators and patient-care providers. Recipients are nominated by their peers and chosen for the award by a committee comprised of past winners.

"These educators, scientist and caregivers define the academic strength and dedication at this medical school. Their commitment and skills, as well as the peer-reviewed recognition of their efforts, stand as shining examples of the values and expertise we as an institution bring to our patients, the national and international research communities and to our students," said EVMS Dean Gerald J. Pepe, PhD.

Also honored Wednesday at the awards ceremony were: Wendy M. Gunther, MD, Achievement by Community Faculty; John A. Ullian, PhD, Achievement in Institutional Service; Richard R. Drake, PhD, Achievement in Teaching in the Basic Sciences; and Russell L. Prewitt, PhD, Achievement in Mentoring. Dr. Pepe also gave the first-ever Dean's Rising Star awards to Aurora Esquela-Kerscher, PhD, and Serina A. Neumann, PhD.

Jean E. Shelton, MD, Dean's Outstanding Faculty:

A previous winner of the Dean's Achievement in Clinical Service Award, colleagues describe Dr. Shelton as a prime example of the compassionate physician and a dedicated educator students should strive to become. She staffs numerous specialized clinics in addition to serving as chair, professor and residency director in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. That deep commitment to service has been a trademark of her 34-year tenure on the EVMS faculty and has endeared her to students and residents, who praise the time she takes to ensure they are equipped to be effective clinicians. Dr. Shelton lives in Suffolk.

Richard R. Drake, PhD, Achievement in Teaching in the Basic Sciences:
A respected scientist and innovative educator, Dr. Drake joined EVMS in 2001. He took on the challenging medical molecular and cellular biology course for first-year medical students and completely overhauled the lecture, turning what had been seen as a weakness into a popular, engaging class that ensures EVMS medical students are prepared to stay informed of the latest research. Dr. Drake, professor of microbiology and molecular cell biology, resides in Chesapeake.

Wendy M. Gunther, MD, Achievement by Community Faculty:
Dr. Gunther, assistant professor of pathology at EVMS and assistant chief medical examiner for the Tidewater District, is one of the few pathologists in the U.S. board certified in both forensic and pediatric pathology. A talented and enthusiastic lecturer, she ties her lessons to real-world scenarios from her work as a medical examiner, enabling medical and health professions students to gain a full understanding of forensic pathology and traumatic injury. Dr. Gunther resides in Norfolk.

Russell L. Prewitt, PhD, Achievement in Mentoring:
While gaining international recognition as a leading research in the fields of microcirculation and vascular physiology, Dr. Prewitt, professor and interim chair of the Department of Physiological Sciences, also quietly built a legacy of helping develop promising young scientist. He has mentored dozens of promising young scientists and nurtured their careers, helping them see opportunities and overcome obstacles. Dr. Prewitt lives in Norfolk.

John A. Ullian, PhD, Achievement in Institutional Service:
Dr. Ullian, director of faculty development and associate professor of family and community medicine, has been instrumental in deepening the educational experience for EVMS students throughout his 15 years at the school. He is known for his skill in helping scientists, physicians and health professionals hone their teaching technique. Dr. Ullian lives in Norfolk.

Aurora Esquela-Kerscher, PhD, and Serina A. Neumann, PhD, Dean's Rising Star:
Dr. Esquela-Kerscher, an assistant professor of microbiology and molecular cell biology, has established herself as a leader in the growing field of microRNA research. Dr. Neumann is highly regarded as a teacher and clinician and is conducting innovative research into autonomic nervous system dysfunctions.