Dr. Christian Ketel has played an integral role in the growing success of the Interprofessional Education (IPE) program. With a new opportunity, leading Dr. Ketel to Birmingham, he has stepped down as Co-Director. We express our deepest gratitude for the time and devotion, as we reflect on his journey with the IPE program.

1. What drew you to the IPE program?Christian: “I was initially recruited by Lipscomb Pharmacy Professor, Chad Gentry as a community partner with The Clinic at Mercury Courts. We hosted a few teams in collaboration with Urban Housing Solutions. I enjoyed the meetings and collaboration so much; I stayed on as faculty for the Vanderbilt School of Nursing. The wide range of profession, the dynamic faculty, and the phenomenal students was a rewarding experience. In 2020, I had the opportunity to step into leadership, and I did not hesitate to accept. It was at the start of COVID, so it was an honor to be trusted with leading through this challenging time. The whole MVA and faculty team was truly amazing pivoting and adapting to the necessary changes. Once COVID declined, the shift back to the new normal provided new tools and strategies that strengthen the program and demonstrated all our resilience as a program and team. It was a highlight of my career.”
2. Do you have a favorite memory from your time with the IPE program?Christian: “I have quite a few. The first was the development and implementation of our virtual escape game. It was very complex trying to bring this learning experience to life. My favorite part was being onsite watching the students navigating the escape game with cell phones strapped to their heads. I was pleasantly surprised when so many of the student teams were able to escape! The other memory or memories that bring me joy were being with students as they engaged with our community partners and their clients. For me, that is the heart of the program. IPE students bring innovation and creativity to solve real community and social programs.”
3. What advice do you have for faculty or students that might be interested in joining the IPE program?Christian: “My advice for both is to do it! The faculty teams from all over Nashville and from numerous professions provide a refreshing and stimulating environment to grow as educators and practitioners. There is nothing I enjoy more than to hear thoughts and ideas from totally different perspectives and to see those ideas come to fruition! For students, this program is a unique experience. I cannot think of another program that brings so many professions from so many institutions into one program. As a student, they not only get an understanding of the value of different disciplines but also an opportunity to bring those values to life. It is a dynamic learning environment!”
4. How has your involvement with the IPE program impacted you?Christian: “It gives my hope for our healthcare system. The faculty, students, and community partners blend together seamlessly to tackle real-world health and social inequities. I feel confident that experiencing our IPE program will forever change the way we view our practice and service to society.”
5. What will you be doing in your new role?Christian: “I am excited about joining the University of Alabama Birmingham School of Nursing as their Assistant Dean of Practice and Community Programs. I hope to emulate the collaborative spirit I have learned through working at the MVA and the IPE program to make a difference in Alabama and the Southeast Region. I have all confidence that although this chapter is ending that the MVA and IPE program will be a part of my future through collaboration and respect!”

The Interprofessional Education program is an annual student-led project that provides an opportunity for students from various health professional programs in the Nashville area to collaborate with community partners in a real-world setting. For more questions about the program, please email mercedes.ridinger@meharry-vanderbilt.org.