Christie Mendoza McCall, MFA and Dr. Robert Powers, MD, MPH have been honored with the 2025 Adelle F. Robertson Award, a distinction recognizing faculty members who have demonstrated sustained excellence in providing new knowledge, instruction or public service to the people, organizations and institutions served by the University. Given annually, this award honors former School of Continuing and Professional Studies’ Dean Robertson’s career, characterized by her devotion to continuing education and public service.
Powers and Mendoza McCall have impressive careers and teaching backgrounds. A faculty member with UVA for over 20 years, Powers has been a part of UVA’s Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Medical program at the School of Continuing and Professional Studies since its inception. He brings every class to life for students with his 40+ year career as a clinician and administrator in emergency medicine, internal medicine, long term and palliative and hospice care. “Dr. Powers welcomes any and all student questions or topics and he fosters a classroom environment where active discussion is encouraged,” remarked Susan Salko, UVA’s Post Baccalaureate Pre-Medical program director.
“Teaching is a natural and essential part of academic medical practice,” Powers explained, adding, “I was influenced in my early career by patient and knowledgeable faculty who were willing to spend time ensuring that students, residents, and young colleagues attained the knowledge necessary to move forward in their practice and careers. Their evident enjoyment and satisfaction led me into this role.”
Mendoza McCall turned to teaching in 2001, eager to imbue classes with her love for the performing arts and experience as a professional dancer. “I completed my Master of Fine Arts…with the intent of teaching dance at the university level. In my last year of graduate school…I was invited to perform professionally in the Andrew Lloyd Webber production of the musical, CATS, in Europe and the US. When I finished performing professionally, I felt teaching would afford me the opportunity to use my professional experiences in an academic environment and provide a real-life perspective, as well as the expectations and demands that an aspiring student of the arts must endure to become a professional performer,” Mendoza McCall explained.
Mendoza McCall and Powers are fueled by their love of teaching and desire to support “non-traditional” students in their respective programs. Both appreciate the varied life experiences and level of maturity their learners bring to classes. “It provides a uniquely gratifying and challenging opportunity for a teacher. The focus, dedication, and contributions they bring is inspiring, and has provided me with a range of experiences unlike my exposure to typical undergraduates or medical students,” Powers explained.
Both instructors were nominated for continually going above and beyond expectations to provide the best learning environment and support for students.
“The Adelle F. Robertson award is meant to acknowledge ‘excellence in teaching,’ something both Christie and Bob have clearly demonstrated in all their years teaching, mentoring and advising students. Their care for and devotion to students is apparent and truly makes a difference in their lives,” stated Stephen Levine, Associate Dean for Academic Programs.
“Christie’s supportive nature, willingness to assist, and calm demeanor are crucial for adult students navigating multiple responsibilities. She embodies the School of Continuing and Professional Studies’ mission to support adult learners,” added a colleague.
As Powers looks to retirement, his Post Baccalaureate Pre-Medical community of colleagues, students and alumni know they have been touched by all that he has done for them and for the program, pointing to many partnerships and initiatives Powers spearheaded to improve students’ experience and outcomes. “Because of his scholarship, leadership, and advising, hundreds of alumni have gone on to become physicians who care for the infirmed and advocate for those in need,” shared a colleague.
Congratulations to Christie Mendoza McCall and Dr. Robert Powers. UVA’s School of Continuing and Professional Studies is grateful for your dedication to excellence in providing transformational education.