Kristen Slinkard, MD (left) and Fredrick Timbrook, MD (right)
Kristen Slinkard, MD, faculty member, and Fredrick Timbrook, MD, resident, were recognized through the “Exceptional Moments in Teaching” program for the month of June.
June 10, 2024
Dr. Slinkard is an assistant professor in the Department of Family and Community Medicine at the College of Medicine.
“During my rotation in family medicine, Dr. Slinkard was an exceptional teacher. Working with her, I was able to see every patient and present on them to her. She gave me targeted feedback throughout my rotation on how to give more confident-sounding, organized presentations, which I was able to implement and improve,” said one student. “Dr. Slinkard made me feel like I was an important member of the team, more than any other attending or resident I have worked with. Oftentimes, we were able to proceed with a plan I suggested. She made me feel valued and created an awesome learning environment by never rushing me and making me feel included.”
Dr. Slinkard developed an interest in family medicine during her third year of medical school at Penn State College of Medicine. After attending residency in Pittsburgh, she joined the family medicine department at Penn State Health, where she enjoys teaching, mentoring, and advising medical students and taking care of patients of all ages in the outpatient setting.
In her free time, she enjoys traveling and outdoor activities with her husband, baby daughter, and French bulldog.
The resident awardee, Dr. Timbrook is a third-year resident in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Milton S. Hershey Medical Center.
“Starting on your first night shift as a medical student can be quite daunting. I recall entering the building and running into Dr. Timbrook, who coincidentally was headed to the same floor. He warmly introduced himself, gave me a tour and ensured I met everyone on the team. As the nights passed, I grew more acquainted with him,” said a student. “He consistently sought out learning opportunities for me, ensuring I was fully engaged. He kept in mind my learning objectives, provided space for independent work with patients and offered guidance when needed. Importantly, when I made a minor error, he shared a relatable story from his own experience, easing my embarrassment. Overall, Dr. Timbrook was the standout resident during my rotations, blending enjoyment with invaluable learning experiences. Saying goodbye was genuinely difficult.”
Dr. Timbrook is a West Virginia native and grew up in the small town of Ridgeley, WV. He graduated from West Virginia University School of Medicine and started his career in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Penn State. Dr. Timbrook is currently pursuing a career in maternal-fetal medicine. He attributes his success to the fantastic physician role models and mentorship provided within the Penn State Division of Academic Specialists in Obstetrics and Gynecology and maternal-fetal medicine departments.
In his free time, Dr. Timbrook enjoys cooking for his boyfriend Hunter, a talented Pastry Chef at The Hotel Hershey, and going on dates to Texas Roadhouse. He also frequents trips to New York City to visit his best friends from medical school. The two intend to move to the south following a successful fellowship match.
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. Each month, one faculty member and one resident/fellow are highlighted 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.