Each year, students from the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences representing the MD, PA, PT, OT, and residency programs cast their votes for the Golden Apple Awards, recognizing faculty members and residents who have made a meaningful impact on their education through exceptional teaching, mentorship, and support.
The SMHS Student Council would like to thank all students who participated in the 2026 Golden Apple voting process. While many outstanding educators were nominated, this year’s recipients were selected for consistently going above and beyond in their dedication to compassionate teaching, strong clinical and classroom mentorship, and their commitment to supporting students throughout their training at GW.
PT Program Golden Apple Award – Ellen Costello, PhD
“Dr. Costello is one of the most kind, motivating, and knowledgeable people I have ever met. She is passionate about her students and it always shows. She makes time to make sure everyone understands. She is truly one of the best, if not the best professors I have ever had.”
“Dr. Costello is truly the best educator, supporter, and friend. She consistently goes above and beyond for all students, and absolutely loves what she’s doing. She instructs with passion, humor, and uniqueness that keeps us all engaged with what are really difficult concepts to grasp at times.”
“Dr. Costello is a huge part of the physical therapy program, not just because of her role as a professor, but because of how much she cares about her students. It's clear she genuinely cares for each student and wants us to be successful. She also has an amazing, bubbly personality that is always refreshing to see. Even just running into her in the hallway is enough to brighten the rest of your day.”
PA Program Golden Apple Award – Michael Johnson, PA-C
“Professor Johnson makes the mundane “ground hog day” feeling of the didactic year fun and exciting. He creates a safe learning environment for making mistakes and getting wrong answers. He's extremely intelligent but confident and comfortable enough to understand where his content expertise lies and when to admit that he doesn't know the answer to something. His selflessness and dedication to our PA program doesn't go unnoticed by us students and his upbeat and funny personality makes the long days just a little easier. Thank you for all you've done for our cohort, our program and the PA profession Professor Johnson!”
“Dr. Johnson creates an engaging and supportive learning environment that encourages critical thinking and active participation. He consistently takes the time to ensure that students understand complex material, breaking down challenging concepts in a way that is both clear and clinically relevant. His teaching style not only strengthens our medical knowledge but also helps us develop confidence in applying that knowledge in real-world settings.”
“In addition to his teaching, Dr. Johnson is approachable and genuinely invested in student success. He fosters an environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and seeking guidance, and he provides thoughtful feedback that supports both academic and professional growth.”
OT Program Golden Apple Award – Kellie Sawyer, OTD
“Dr. Kellie Sawyer exemplifies what it means to be an OT and a great professor. She is kind in her words and demeanor, and intentional in her instruction, which all show up every day. She greets you with a smile and somehow always manages to make you feel calm without saying much.”
“Dr. Sawyer always goes the extra mile to ensure that students and staff are growing to their full potential. She is very attentive and determined to help the program and each student grow.”
MD Program Faculty Golden Apple Award – Manjari Dimri, MBBS
“Dr. Dimri amazed me with the depth and breadth of her knowledge. The case studies and clinical vignettes she presents not only assisted in reinforcing the material being taught, but also instilled in me a newfound appreciation for the relevance of biochemistry in the work of physicians. Although each lecture covered a substantial amount of information, Dr. Dimri’s presentations were always concise and well-prepared.”
“Dr. Dimri goes above and beyond to create a safe, supportive, and welcoming learning environment. She made sure to attend every single post-exam review session as the Foundations block director, even for exams where her lectures only covered a small portion of the material. Dr. Dimri is extremely warm and encouraging, providing clear explanations to questions while also expressing an interest in our lives outside of the classroom and urging wellness.”
“Dr. Dimri is an outstanding educator who is committed to both delivering exceptional lectures and supporting her students’ well-being. I urge the award committee to recognize her for her extraordinary hard work, dedication, and service to students.”
“Dr Dimri is such an amazing teacher, working hard to make the material engaging and connecting with students on a more personal level.”
MD Program Faculty Golden Apple Award – Norman Lee, PhD
“Dr. Lee’s pharmacology lectures are always extremely organized, thorough, and concise. His drug tables are exceptional. He’s also a very kind and funny professor.”
“Dr. Lee infuses joy into his lectures while making them clear and succinct.”
“Dr. Lee is an absolute gem on the pre-curriculum staff. He has been a wonderful and energetic professor.”
MD Program Resident Golden Apple Award – Rachel Ranson, DO
“Rachel has done exceptional work in mentoring students interested in orthopedic surgery and in helping to lead the orthopedic department's research efforts. Despite an exceedingly busy residency schedule, she makes time to help mentor students, review their research, and organize research efforts.”
“Rachel has been so supportive to my learning & an amazing mentor!”
