In parts 1, 2 and 3 of this series, we explored the paths that led a group of young leaders to be recognized in the recent CPD Forty Under 40 awards at the Alliance 2024 Annual Conference. In part 4, we are turning the spotlight on awardees Hannah Collier; Matthew Stern, M.S.; and Sarah O’Brien, B.S.

They share their journeys within healthcare education, offering perspectives on their experiences, advice for newcomers to the field and more.

Congratulations on being selected as one of the CPD Forty Under 40 recipients! Can you tell us about the journey that led you to where you are today in your career in healthcare education?

Hannah Collier, Esq. (HC): After initially practicing criminal law and gaining experience in contract work, I transitioned to the medical publishing industry and subsequently moved into distribution. Over the past nine years, I have advanced within the field and now hold the position of senior director of educational strategy at a prominent medical education company.

Matthew Stern, M.S. (MS): I fell into healthcare by accident in 2009. Since then, I’ve been in higher and accredited education. I've taken on increasing roles and responsibilities at three hospitals in different states to get here. I decided early on to have a continuous learning mindset which was the decision that took me to graduate school and led me to lead the team that I do today.

Sarah O’Brien, B.S. (SO): My journey into healthcare education was by chance but also straightforward. During my senior year of college, I had an internship with a healthcare communications company which broadly exposed me to the industry. Following graduation, I started in educational development at an oncology-focused medical education company. After two years, I sought a change and joined PVI, PeerView Institute for Medical Education, where I've been for almost eight years. I’ve always worked in educational development, and I really enjoy it.

In your opinion, what are some of the most pressing challenges or opportunities facing healthcare education today, particularly for younger professionals like yourself?

HC: One of the most compelling aspects of this field is its dynamic nature, which presents both challenges and opportunities. In this specialized industry, one of the primary challenges for emerging professionals is the significant learning barrier and insufficient communication from stakeholders. While the opportunity to develop educational content that significantly improves the lives of vulnerable patients is unique, the lack of constructive feedback when initiatives fall short can be particularly frustrating for those just starting their careers.

MS: I think the decreasing educational budgets for our learners will need to be balanced by increased budgets to the education departments so our physician leaders can teach and reach new audiences using new methods. Those programs that don't dedicate the time, effort and funds to innovation will not thrive in this new era.

SO: One of the biggest challenges (and opportunities) is the continuous quest for innovation within healthcare education. We are an industry that evolves rapidly. What’s considered innovative today may not be two years from now.

As a young leader in healthcare education, what advice would you give to other aspiring professionals who are just starting out in this field?

HC: Cultivate relationships, invest in your community and embody your principles by continuing to learn.

MS: Become a teammate of your faculty leaders and you will earn their respect and trust. You also need to identify your personal mission and consider if it aligns with the work you’re doing, and you will see success. My mission is to help people, and right now, I help the entire clinical team in healing children.

SO: Ask questions and learn from your peers, especially those in different roles. Getting a well-rounded perspective of the industry will only make you a better professional.

Lastly, how do you plan to leverage this recognition as a CPD Forty Under 40 recipient to further your career goals and make a positive impact in healthcare education?

HC: Being recognized as a CPD Forty Under 40 is a testament to the community that has invested in my growth and development. I am committed to paying it forward by supporting and nurturing the next generation of professionals in our field.

MS: This award is such an honor and affirmation that all the hard work I have done to do my part in educating the clinicians of our communities has been noticed and positively received. It shows that I have helped clinicians help their patient.