YANKTON, S.D. — Yankton Medical Clinic proudly extends its congratulations to Dr. April Willman, Board-Certified Pediatrician and Associate Dean of the Yankton Campus at the University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine (USD SSOM), on her acceptance into Harvard Medical School’s esteemed Training to Teach in Medicine program.
Dr. Willman’s selection for this competitive program is a testament to her exceptional commitment to clinical care, medical education, and mentoring future physicians. Her dedication reflects the values upheld by many at Yankton Medical Clinic — a strong belief in shaping the future of healthcare through education and leadership.
“Her passion for shaping future physicians and her tireless pursuit of knowledge embody the very qualities that make an extraordinary teacher of medicine,” said Sue Bak, Education Coordinator at USD SSOM Yankton Campus. “Dr. Willman’s selection for this program is a testament to her professional distinction, her vision for innovative teaching, and her unwavering devotion to her students and colleagues alike.”
The Training to Teach in Medicine program, hosted virtually by Harvard Medical School from November 2025 through June 2026, is designed for clinician-educators and faculty who wish to enhance their classroom and clinical teaching skills. Taught by renowned Harvard Medical School faculty, the curriculum integrates educational theory with practical teaching strategies, featuring team-based learning, skills training, and a capstone project.
Open only to applicants holding doctoral-level degrees, the program is highly selective. The application process requires multiple written statements and a recommendation from a supervisor. In Dr. Willman’s acceptance letter, Hannah Meiser, Director of Admissions and Enrollment Services at Harvard Medical School, wrote:
“Your notable accomplishments and enthusiasm for the course stood out to us among a competitive pool of applicants.”
Dr. Willman will continue to serve her dual roles as Associate Dean at USD SSOM Yankton Campus and as a practicing pediatrician at Yankton Medical Clinic throughout her participation in the program. Her involvement will bring valuable insights and modern teaching techniques back to the region, enriching both the academic and medical communities.
Yankton Medical Clinic celebrates this outstanding achievement with Dr. Willman and applauds her ongoing dedication to excellence in care and education.