Nathan James Cockerill, M.D., has been named the April Resident of the Month for the Marshall University Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine, announced Paulette S. Wehner, M.D., vice dean for graduate medical education.

Cockerill is finishing his fifth and final year of general surgery residency at the Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine. The South Bend, Indiana, native completed his Doctor of Medicine at Indiana University where he also completed two years of general surgery residency before transferring to Marshall. Cockerill earned his B.S. in Biochemistry from Purdue University.

Cockerill was selected Resident of the Month for his dedication to teaching and developing innovative approaches to curriculum development, Wehner said. “Every nomination we received on Dr. Cockerill’s behalf mentioned what a wonderful educator he is and his commitment to improving educational and clinical experiences.” 

“Dr. Cockerill is an active teacher who creates a welcoming environment in and out of the operating room,” said Semeret Munie, M.D., FACS, associate professor and general surgery co-clerkship director. “His desire to teach was evident through his presentation on managing burn patients at the surgical bootcamp held for graduating 4th year medical students going into surgical specialties. He will have a bright future as an academic surgeon in the future.”

Missy Morrison, general surgery residency program administrator, added that in his role as educational chief resident, Cockerill’s commitment and contributions made the program better. “He created and hosted an ABSITE Review for our surgical residents to prepare them for their annual in-training exam, and he consistently goes the extra mile to ensure conferences, didactics and other educational opportunities are well-organized and impactful,” Morrison said.

“We are truly appreciative of Dr. Cockerill’s proven leadership,” said David Denning, M.D., chair of the program and department of surgery. “His zeal for teaching has truly made a difference in our program.” 

After graduation in June, Cockerill will move to St. Louis, Missouri, where he will complete a one-year Surgical Critical Care Fellowship. As part of his Resident of the Month recognition, Cockerill received a plaque and designated a parking spot.

Date Posted: Friday, April 28, 2023