St. Ambrose University has honored Tammy Moran, PA-C, professor in the Physician Associate Studies program, with the 2026 Whalen-Fitzgibbon Award for Outstanding Innovative Teaching in Graduate Studies. The award recognizes graduate faculty whose teaching excellence leaves a lasting impact on students, their professions, and the communities they serve.
In announcing the award, Amy Novak, EdD, president of St. Ambrose University, praised Moran for creating a learning environment that challenges and supports students preparing for careers in healthcare.
“As a professor in Physician Associate Studies, she teaches in a field that is demanding, fast-paced, and deeply human,” Novak said during the award presentation. “In that setting, she creates a learning environment that is both challenging and deeply supportive.”
Students and colleagues describe Moran as an educator who combines clinical excellence with compassion and a genuine care for students. Known for her commitment to hands-on learning, Moran often spends additional time helping students build confidence in clinical procedures and patient care skills.
Her teaching was recognized for blending creativity and practical experience in ways that help students connect classroom learning to real-world healthcare settings. Novak noted Moran’s ability to present complex medical concepts with clarity while encouraging students to consider multiple perspectives and approach patient care with both competence and compassion.
Students especially highlighted Moran’s work in women’s health, sexual health and reproduction, and her meaningful support for LGBTQIA+ patients and communities. One student shared in their nomination that Moran “leads with compassion and not judgment” and encourages future healthcare providers to understand experiences different from their own.
Colleagues say Moran’s teaching reflects the mission and values of St. Ambrose University through respect for the dignity of every person. She is known for creating an inclusive classroom environment that values the experiences students bring with them, while preparing them to care for patients with skill, mercy, and humanity.
Perhaps the strongest reflection of Moran’s impact comes from her students, who describe her as “kind, compassionate, and truly caring” and someone who “never fails to bring a smile to the faces of her students.” Others shared that she treats each student “as her own,” creating a sense of encouragement and belonging that extends far beyond the classroom.
The 2026 Whalen-Fitzgibbon Award for Outstanding Innovative Teaching in Graduate Studies celebrates faculty whose teaching shapes students not only as professionals but also as people. Through her compassion, mentorship, and dedication to healthcare education, Moran continues to leave a lasting impact on the future clinicians she teaches every day.
