HPM Assistant Professor Miranda Yaver, PhD, was one of two Pitt Public Health faculty members at the University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health recognized for their outstanding contributions to teaching and student mentorship.
Yaver has been named the recipient of the Bernard D. Goldstein Undergraduate Public Health Teaching Award, which recognizes excellence in teaching in the Bachelor of Science in Public Health (BSPH) program.
The recognition highlights her impact on undergraduate students through engaging, accessible and student-centered teaching. Students emphasize her ability to break down complex health policy topics into digestible concepts, helping them better understand the intricacies of the U.S. health system.
Her classroom approach emphasizes dialogue and participation. Students note that she fosters discussion by posing thoughtful questions and encouraging them to connect policy to personal and real-world experiences. Her teaching style, marked by energy, humor and approachability, helps create an environment where students feel comfortable engaging deeply with the material.
Yaver’s dedication extends well beyond the classroom. She is known for her accessibility to students, offering support during office hours and maintaining availability even outside the academic term. Students credit her mentorship with shaping their academic and professional trajectories, from pursuing graduate education to applying for competitive scholarships and research opportunities.
She teaches the core Introduction to Health Policy and Management course required for all BSPH students, along with multiple undergraduate and graduate courses, and is actively involved in curriculum development to ensure coursework remains timely and relevant. Her broader contributions, including leadership roles, research and engagement in student recruitment, further strengthen the school’s educational mission.
- Clare Collins
