This interview is one in a series of interviews with ACGME volunteers during National Volunteer Month. LaToya Wright is a member of the ACGME Coordinator Advisory Group and the ACGME Awards Committee as the Coordinator Advisory Group Representative.
She is the Manager of Education Programs for the Department of Radiology at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas, where she is responsible for the operations and financial management of the radiology education division for 20 graduate medical education (GME) programs and for undergraduate medical education.
ACGME: Why did you decide to volunteer with the ACGME?
Ms. Wright: I decided to volunteer with the ACGME because of my deep passion for medical education and my commitment to professional development. Volunteering allows me to contribute to the growth and success of others in the field, and it provides an opportunity to share my expertise and experiences with a broader community, while also growing personally and professionally.
ACGME: Why is volunteering important and/or rewarding to you and why?
Wright: Volunteering enables me to give back to the medical education community, support the development of future leaders, and foster a collaborative environment. It also allows me to stay engaged with the latest advancements and best practices in GME, which is crucial for my professional growth and the success of the education division I manage.
ACGME: Can you share a little bit about your background, personally, and anything else you’d like to share about who you are?
Wright: I served as the institutional administrator in the GME Office for about 18 months, and before that, I spent more than 11 years as a program coordinator in radiology. So, when I became the manager, it felt like coming back home. You could say I’m like a seasoned chef returning to my favorite kitchen, ready to whip up some educational excellence!
Personally, I am deeply passionate about medical education and mentoring. I have actively contributed to key committees, and my involvement with professional organizations reflects my commitment to continuous learning and professional development. I have shared my expertise at notable conferences and co-authored award-winning poster presentations. Recognized for my contributions, I received the prestigious 2022 Debra L. Dooley GME Program Coordinator Excellence Award from the ACGME. I am dedicated to mentoring initiatives and actively engage in activities that support the growth and success of others in the field.
My publications and articles focus on enhancing institutional oversight and quality improvement in GME, and I have been honored with several awards for my contributions. My passion for GME leadership and my desire to bring innovative ideas and practical experience to all that I do are key factors for me.
On a personal note, I was born in Mississippi and raised in Kansas City, Missouri. Spending time during the summer months in Mississippi was something I always looked forward to—especially for some good southern cooking! Growing up, I worked in childcare centers, deejayed at the skating rink, and was actively involved in sports, among other things. I moved to Texas in 2010 from Kansas City, (Go Chiefs!) and I have been married for 18 years and have two boys. My first-born is graduating high school and pursuing collegiate football and a business degree, with aspirations to own his own photography business. My younger son is a rising sophomore who is passionate about basketball and football and loves to design clothes. I love to travel and spend time with my family. I am deeply committed to the field of medical education and look forward to continuing to make meaningful contributions alongside my incredible team and colleagues.