Forest Park Resident, Mark Kuczewski, PhD, Receives Transformative Education Award from Loyola University Chicago

Loyola University Chicago honored Forest Park resident, Mark Kuczewski, PhD, director of the Neiswanger Institute for Bioethics and Health Policy and Chair of the Department of Medical Education at Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine. He received the Transformative Education Award from the University’s Department of Student Diversity and Multicultural Affairs.

Kuczewski was honored for his tireless efforts to help bring educational opportunities and equality to DREAMer students. Teaming with Linda Brubaker, MD, dean and chief diversity officer, Stritch School of Medicine, he was integral in Stritch becoming the first medical school in the nation to openly welcome undocumented students. He was integral in making seven DREAMer students’ dreams of attending medical school a reality and continues to work with other leaders to ensure they have the support they need to become successful physicians who give back to their communities.

“This award is an expression of the value that Loyola University Chicago places on equal educational opportunity for all qualified members of our community. It is humbling that the award is given to me when it is the faith and perseverance of the DREAMers that has made this accomplishment possible,” Kuczewski said.

The award is given to a faculty member who has demonstrated a commitment to student development and has gone beyond his or her administrative role to address the needs and concerns of underrepresented students.

“In his nearly 15 years at the University, Mark has been deeply and sincerely committed to Loyola’s mission, ‘working to expand knowledge in the service of humanity through learning, justice and faith.’ He has integrated a significant component of social justice content into the Stritch curriculum, making our medical school an exemplar across the country,” said nominator Kayhan Parsi, PhD.

Kuczewski was honored at Loyola’s Annual Diversity Awards Recognition Ceremony which highlights Loyola University Chicago students, alumni, faculty, and staff members who have contributed to the success of our diverse student population academically, spiritually, culturally and professionally. It also highlights outstanding individuals who have committed themselves to embracing diversity and social justice. 

With media inquiries, please contact Evie Polsley at epolsley@lumc.edu or call (708) 216-5313 or (708) 417-5100.