Meet the Temple deans: Dr. Hania W. Janek

BCM Family will highlight the campus deans through a series of Q&As. The series continues with an introduction to Dr. Hania Janek, associate dean of campus operations at Baylor’s School of Medicine on the Temple Campus and senior vice president of clinical medical education at Baylor Scott & White Health.

After years of planning, the School of Medicine’s first regional campus opened in Temple, Texas, last July with an inaugural class of 40 students. The Baylor community had the opportunity to get to know Regional Dean Dr. Alex Arroliga, as well as Dr. Christian Cable, associate dean of admissions and students, and Dr. Steve Charles, associate dean of curriculum. Now, it’s time to get know the other educational leaders on the Temple campus.

What is your professional background?

I earned Master of Science in Medical Education Leadership from the University of New England in 2015 and doctorate in biomedical studies from Baylor University in 2005. I joined Scott & White Healthcare as a postdoctoral fellow in 2005 with a focus on molecular cancer research, and I have served the Baylor Scott & Whit

e Health System in leadership roles in research and education administration for more than 16 years.

My scholarly interests involve a focus on the role of academic research and medical education in the improvement of patient and health system outcomes. I have served as a principal and co-investigator for numerous educational, quality improvement, clinical and basic research studies and grants and have 46 peer-reviewed publications.

What do you hope to accomplish in your role during the first year and also the long-term?

Big picture, I am looking forward to how the transformation of our academic campus will cultivate an environment for learners to become their best selves as healthcare providers and community members. The goals are to improve the appearance of the facilities and campus, align the functionality of the spaces to meet the needs of the learners, faculty and curriculum and provide technology to a modern, advanced state. We will accomplish these goals short-term by prioritizing improvements targeted for campus launch and long-term through an intentional master campus plan.

Why are you excited to be a leader on the new Temple campus?

We invest in education to provide optimal health for the patients and communities we serve. While medical education is not new to the Temple campus, the reimagination of the campus in partnership between Baylor College of Medicine and Baylor Scott & White Health sparks much enthusiasm. Playing a role in its development, transformation and its future is a privilege. I’m energized answering the question, “What does our campus say to the students about our learning environment?” I try to imagine the day in the life of a student on the Temple campus – when they walk through the hallways of the buildings or along the pathway, learn and study in a classroom, the library or interact or share a meal in the squad rooms – the spaces are connected to the impact that, as future physicians, they will deliver in the clinical environment.

What makes the Temple medical school campus unique?

We are creating a new vision and reimagining how medical education partnered with a healthcare system can look like. The campus is unique in that it reflects an academic ecosystem of local educational partners, multidisciplinary learners, multispecialty clinical environment and a diverse community. We want to celebrate the unique aspects of the Temple campus that distinguish it nationally and internationally.

What would you say to an applicant about the Temple campus and community?

I started my career on the Temple campus as a trainee 18 years ago. I trusted in the learning environment and in the leaders, teachers and colleagues who have supported my personal journey on the Temple campus. The people genuinely care about who you are and who you are going to be. Our responsibility as educators and to education is core to the Temple culture and results in a great place to learn, teach and practice.

What do you like to do outside of work?

My husband, Andrew, and I have three daughters – a recent college graduate, high school sophomore and 8^th grader – along with two Labradors and a rescue cat. When not traveling and cheering my younger daughters at volleyball tournaments, my daughters and I serve our community volunteering as members of National Charity League, where I serve on the board. I’m a foodie, and my favorite means to unwind is to be in the kitchen cooking a meal for loved ones or sharing a delicious meal at local restaurants.

Learn more about Baylor’s Temple campus and life in the city.

By Dana Benson