Barbra Solares named Residency Coordinator of the Year
Barbra Solares, senior residency program manager in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tucson, was named Residency Coordinator of the Year by the American Orthopaedic Association.
Barbra Solares holding her Residency Coordinator of the Year award from the American Orthopaedic Association. (Courtesy of Barbra Solares)
“It is truly humbling,” Solares said upon receiving the award. “Knowing that my contributions have helped make our program better overall is immensely gratifying. This award not only reflects my dedication but also acknowledges the collaborative spirit within our team.”
Solares wears many hats as a program manager, a position she started in 2014. She assists Gregory L. DeSilva, MD, with managing the residency program. She helps ensure the department remains in compliance with the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education by meeting all council requirements.
“I also ensure that our residents maintain their well-being and have all the resources they need,” she said.
Additionally, she manages the medical student clerkship for the department and coordinates weekly Grand Rounds/didactic schedules.
Solares was nominated by DeSilva, who is also an associate professor of orthopaedic surgery, and by fifth-year chief residents Nathan Sherman, MD, MBA, and Bryn Nisbet, MD.
“Because a surgical residency is five years in length, Barb Solares provides incredibly important communication and interpersonal skills to help guide and nurture the residents through the tough and challenging times,” DeSilva wrote in his nomination letter. “She is an incredibly valuable leader for medical education. Her intelligence, sincerity and devotion are clearly evident and make our program an excellent learning environment.”
Barbra Solares
“Barb is at the center of our residency program,” Sherman and Nisbet wrote in their joint nomination letter. “She is actively engaged in coordinating resident education and schedules; obtaining credentialing for residents to work at several hospitals in two states and three large cities; and serves as a listening ear for all residents.”
Solares said the passion for her work stems from a deep commitment to the success and well-being of the residency program and its residents.
“I find immense fulfillment in going above and beyond the call of duty to ensure the program’s growth and the holistic development of our residents,” she said. “Witnessing their progress, both professionally and personally, fuels my dedication to this role.”
She said that her favorite part of her job is supporting the residents and engaging in diverse extracurricular activities.
“Whether it’s facilitating teaching sessions, participating in community-service initiatives or coordinating resident interviews, each aspect adds a layer of richness to my role,” she said. “The dynamic nature of these activities keeps me engaged and excited about the positive impact we can make collectively.”