Ronnie Adams
Ronnie Adams, MCRP, has made such an impact on the lives of medical students over the years that one nominated him for the University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) Employee of the Month Award for August.
Lauren Bernard, MHS, a fourth-year University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) student who also works as a tutor and aide, said in her nomination that the IT support associate in UMSOM’s Office of Medical Education “is an essential partner in creating an effective learning environment, and his behind-the-scenes work has a meaningful impact on the education of every medical student.”
Adams learned that he had received the award in a videoconference Aug. 17 led by UMB President Bruce E. Jarrell, MD, FACS, who knows Adams from his work at UMSOM. In congratulating him, Jarrell pointed out that it is unusual for a student to nominate an employee for the award.
“It’s a very nice tribute,” Jarrell said. “It’s particularly remarkable because a student nominated you. That’s a testament to the wonderful things you do and how you make the students feel comfortable. They are in a very intense environment, and it’s nice to have people around them who can calm them down. You do that in an exemplary manner.”
Adams said his role is “like a Swiss army knife.” As IT support, he could be called on to unlock email accounts for students or faculty, help students plan their events, show instructors how to use smart technology, help with course material including in areas such as the anatomy lab, and record lectures.
“He is a dedicated employee, not only to the School of Medicine and UMB, but also to the medical students whom he directly supports daily in their educational mission,” said his supervisor, Paul Moore, director, Instructional Support Service.
Bernard called him one of the most dependable people at UMB.
“Whether he is helping set up student events, small groups, or lectures, he consistently shows up prepared and follows through on every commitment,” she said. “He has an incredible ability to stay calm when technology fails, quickly solving problems while reassuring everyone around him.
“His steady presence allows students and faculty to focus on learning instead of worrying about technical issues, making the educational environment less stressful for everyone.”
Joseph Martinez, MD, professor and associate dean for medical education and student experience, said students and faculty view Adams as a resource.
“When I go to the small group rooms or to lecture, I always look to see where Ronnie is, and he will have me set up perfectly,” Martinez said. “You know everything’s working, he’s already ironed out all the glitches, and if something happens, I can count on him to fix it.”
Bernard recalled Adams coming to the rescue during a lecture.
“One of the most memorable moments was when a lecturer’s entire PowerPoint was not readable due to the font chosen, and he helped fix it in real time to ensure that the lecture continued smoothly,” she said.
Martinez said students view him as a calming presence.
“It’s a stressful time for the medical students, and they love the fact that Ronnie is there and he’s got music going and the joke of the day written on the board,” he said. “If you talk to students from 10 years ago, they’ll say, ‘Is Ronnie still there?’ That’s a real tribute to him.”
Adams, who has worked at UMSOM for 22 years, said part of what drives him is that he knows how hard it is to be a medical student.
“I see that every day,” he said. “You try to learn what they’re giving you today and it’s like an avalanche; it just keeps coming at you. I can see that on their faces and in their demeanor. So anytime I can bring them some cheer, make it a little easier, or make them feel a little more appreciated, then I’ve done something.”
To that end, Adams maintains a calendar outside the lecture rooms with important dates for exams and holidays but also quirky days like National Bacon Lovers Day. For Hawaiian Day, celebrating when Hawaii became the 50th state, students planned to wear Hawaiian shirts.
“We love it, the students love it, and it’s just a joy to pass by,” said Fiama Romero, MS, program manager, Office of Student Research, who is also the UMB Staff Senate president. “Despite being a behind-the-scenes person, Ronnie helps you feel seen and makes your work feel important. That’s the core of it: Whether it’s supporting the faculty or the administration or helping our students, he makes you feel like why you are there matters and is important to the University.”
Bernard said Adams stands out because of the way he treats people.
“Ronnie learns students’ names, checks in to see how we are doing, greets everyone with kindness, and creates an environment where students feel seen and supported,” she said. “He not only keeps our classrooms and events running smoothly, but he also creates an environment where students feel welcomed, supported, and cared for.”
Adams, who will receive a certificate and $250 in his paycheck for the award, said the people are his favorite part of the job.
“The students are the best, and the people I work with are really wonderful,” he said. “They’re understanding, caring, and considerate people. It’s a joy to come to work where you know you’re appreciated and treated well.”
He called winning the award heartwarming and uplifting and thanked the UMSOM students.
“They’re the ones who made it happen,” he said. “I’m just a reflection of the people around me.”
— Jen Badie