Laura joined the Center for Interprofessional Education in 2024.
In this interview, Laura shares how her firsthand experience in a collaborative pediatric healthcare setting shaped their passion for interprofessional education, their role in fostering engagement at C-IPE, and their journey from participant to leader in advancing teamwork across health professions.
Can you share a personal experience that shaped your interest in collaborative health care?
Early in my career, I worked as a physical therapist at a large children’s hospital, where I had the opportunity to be part of a team that truly embraced a collaborative approach to patient care. Our team was dedicated to providing comprehensive care for young athletes, ensuring that every aspect of their health and recovery was addressed seamlessly. Through this experience, I saw firsthand the positive impact of interprofessional collaboration—not only on patient outcomes but also on the overall experience of patients and their families. Witnessing the power of teamwork in delivering holistic, high-quality care solidified my commitment to collaborative healthcare.
Why is interprofessional education important to you?
Interprofessional education (IPE) is the foundation of effective healthcare teamwork. It provides a space for students and professionals to learn with, from, and about each other, helping them develop a shared understanding of patient care. IPE fosters a culture of collaboration, allowing healthcare providers to see challenges through multiple perspectives, ultimately improving communication, coordination, and patient outcomes. By engaging in IPE, we build the skills necessary to work across disciplines, ensuring that we are better equipped to meet the complexities of healthcare today and in the future.
How would you describe your role within the C-IPE team?
My role is to guide the Interprofessional Engagement and Development initiatives to build a vibrant Interprofessional Community. This includes serving as a “front door” for stakeholders to access professional development, foster relationships, and help people transition across three targeted levels of engagement: the “stadium” (initial learners and participants), the “bench” (active contributors and mentees), and “leaders” (mentors and champions). Also, I oversee the development of educational and engagement opportunities in partnership with the University of Michigan Center for Research on Learning and Teaching, collaborate with the CIPE Intentional Measurement Committee on a longitudinal impact plan, and engage external partners to incorporate innovative strategies.
How have you grown since becoming involved with the Center for IPE?
I began my work with the Center for Interprofessional Education (C-IPE) in 2015, when I was new to the Ann Arbor campus and still an Assistant Professor. At first, I was simply excited to be surrounded by the innovation and energy of IPE at Michigan. Over time, I was invited to lead task forces and workgroups, which provided me with invaluable opportunities to build relationships and contribute in meaningful ways. Through these experiences, I came to realize that I was not just participating in IPE—I was a leader in this space.
As I deepened my engagement, I formed relationships with colleagues I once admired from afar. Many became mentors, and today, I count them as treasured friends. The C-IPE has profoundly influenced my teaching, research, and service, and I have been able to bring many of these lessons back to the College of Health Sciences and the Physical Therapy program, where both students and faculty benefit from this work.
More recently, I accepted the role of Director of Engagement and Development. This position is especially meaningful to me, as it allows me to support and guide others—just as others did for me when I was starting out. I am deeply grateful to be part of this vibrant community, working alongside passionate professionals who are committed to advancing health and healthcare outcomes through interprofessional collaboration.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
Whether you’re new to interprofessional education (IPE) or a seasoned veteran in this space, I encourage you to get involved in new ways. There is still so much work to be done as we strive to achieve the Quintuple Aims of Health, and we need more committed people working together to make a meaningful impact. If you’re unsure where to start but want to get involved, please reach out—I’d love to connect. My own journey at UM began simply by showing up, and from there, incredible opportunities unfolded. I’m always interested in exploring new collaborations and finding ways to work together. Let’s connect and make a difference!