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OMAHA — Laurel native Betsy (Adkins) Becker, DPT, PhD, chair of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences and program director of physical therapy in the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Allied Health Professions, has been named Distinguished Educator by UNMC’s Interprofessional Academy of Educators.
It is the academy’s highest honor, awarded to a faculty member who consistently demonstrates excellence in teaching and peer mentoring to promote the development of the next generation of effective and innovative teachers.
Dr. Becker, a graduate of Laurel-Concord High School, is the first individual to receive the Distinguished Educator designation.
She received the honor at the IAE’s Spotlight on Scholarship event, scheduled on March 28 in the Durham Research Center auditorium.
“I am honored to be selected as the inaugural IAE Distinguished Educator,” Dr. Becker said. “I am committed to teaching the next generation of health care professionals and continuing mentorship of faculty, graduate and professional students.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the students whose feedback has guided my growth and to the faculty and staff members with whom I’ve had the privilege to learn from and collaborate, as their support has been invaluable.”
The Distinguished Educator is not merely a one-time honor but an active designation, according to the IAE. Distinguished Educators are required to engage in at least three teaching or mentoring activities per year and complete a renewal process every five years to maintain the designation.
“I am thrilled that Dr. Becker is the inaugural recipient of the Distinguished Educator designation, as she truly embodies our educational mission,” said Dele Davies, MD, senior vice chancellor for academic affairs and dean for graduate studies. “This honor is different, because it is given not just for recognition of Dr. Becker’s teaching excellence, but also because it involves a commitment on Dr. Becker’s part to become a mentor to future generations of faculty who will continue the tradition of teaching excellence at UNMC.”
Nominators noted that Dr. Becker’s career is marked by innovative teaching methodologies and research in educational technology, instructional development and curricular design. Committed to advising and mentorship, she guides students and faculty toward excellence, fostering effective professional networks.
“Dr. Becker’s passion for teaching, constant innovation both in and out of the classroom — particularly through her experience in digital learning — and unwavering dedication to mentoring fellow faculty and students make her a true asset to our academic community,” Dr. Davies said.
Dean Kyle Meyer, PhD, said this is a proud moment for the UNMC College of Allied Health Professions.
“Dr. Becker’s influence extends beyond UNMC, evidenced by her contribution at both state and national levels, advancing educational initiatives and policies,” he said. “Her strategic guidance fosters collaborative learning environments, enhancing student experiences and promoting faculty development across UNMC’s Kearney and Omaha campuses.”
The IAE is comprised of more than 200 faculty, staff and learners across Nebraska, with members from all five campuses, seven colleges and three partner organizations. Their mission is to cultivate a community across professions that connects educators with like interests to drive collaboration, innovation and scholarship. Due to the competitive nature and prestige of the award, no more than two individuals will be named Distinguished Educators each application cycle.
Dr. Becker is the director of Physical Therapy Education and chair of the Department of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences at the College of Allied Health Professions at UNMC. Dr. Becker holds master’s and Ph.D. degrees from UNMC. She has her clinical doctorate in physical therapy from the University of South Dakota.
Dr. Becker is the daughter of Rick and Joanie Adkins of Laurel. Her husband, Mark, and their mini goldendoodle, Ollie, live in Valley, Nebraska.
