Dr. Carol Nichols, associate dean and chair for foundational sciences at the new Methodist University Cape Fear Valley Health School of Medicine, was recently elected president of the International Association of Medical Science Educators (IAMSE).

The non-profit is a collection of health professions educators from around the world whose goals include promoting excellence and innovation in teaching, student assessment, program evaluation, instructional technology, human simulation and learner-centered education. Nichols has been a member of the IAMSE for over two decades.

“Being selected to serve as the IAMSE president-elect is incredibly humbling and a tremendous honor,” shared Nichols in a press release. “I am thrilled to serve at a time when I also have the opportunity to showcase the new Methodist University Cape Fear Valley School of Medicine and the wonderful, unique qualities that will set it apart from other medical schools.”

The intent to establish the Methodist University Cape Fear Valley Health School of Medicine was announced in February 2023. Nichols recently joined the senior leadership of the planned state-of-the-art medical school, which will train the next generation of healthcare professionals out of a new, $50-million-plus facility on the CFVH campus. 

“Our new medical school is extremely fortunate to have Dr. Nichols on our team,” said Dr. Stephanie Mann, senior associate dean for academic affairs for the school of medicine, in a press release. “Her selection as president of IAMSE is based on her long-standing record of educational scholarship, dedication to mentoring students, and contributions to the development of medical educators. We will all benefit from Dr. Nichols dedication to students and her expertise with curriculum development."

The School of Medicine is currently an applicant program with the Liaison Commission on Medical Education (LCME) and aims to begin classes in July 2026 pending approval by the LCME and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).