About Me
Dr. Puccinelli-Ortega is an Associate Professor in the Health Sciences Leadership and Development Program, bringing over 18 years of teaching and research experience from academic learning health systems at Atrium Health Wake Forest School of Medicine and Eastern Virgina Medical School. She specializes in health professions education, qualitative research methodology, patient-centered models of care, and holistic coaching.
Dr. Puccinelli-Ortega earned her Ph.D. in Medical and Health Professions Education from Eastern Virginia Medical School. Her research focuses on microlearning, mitigating cognitive load in student learning, critical pedagogy, and reinforcing health equity and the social determinants of health across the learning continuum. She has authored numerous published research articles.
Her pedagogical approach emphasizes creating an inclusive, student-centered learning environment that is welcoming and non-judgmental. She encourages curiosity in her students, fostering a culture where critical thinking and mistakes are seen as essential parts of the learning process and knowledge is co-constructed. Dr. Puccinelli-Ortega is a self-proclaimed lifelong learner, and she prioritizes self-care for herself and others. She is a member of AMEE: The International Association for Health Professions Education.
Originally from Miami, Florida, Dr. Puccinelli-Ortega now enjoys the Carolina blue skies while indulging in a Café Cubano. She loves spending time outdoors with her family, kayaking, walking her dogs, and bonding with her equine friends. Her passions include teaching and learning, community service, traveling, and exploring diverse cultures.