Dr. Leonid Skorin Jr., ophthalmologist with the Mayo Clinic Health System in Albert Lea, graduated with a Master of Science in medical education leadership from the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine. Commencement was held on May 21, in Portland, Maine. Shown conferring the degree to Skorin is Danielle N. Ripich, president of the university.

The Master of Science in medical education leadership is a two-year program which utilizes asynchronous, distance learning. The program was developed jointly by the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine and the Office of Medical Education at Maine Medical Center in Portland, Maine. The program prepares medical and health professionals to grow as both educators and leaders in academic settings.

Skills are enhanced in a variety of areas through professional application and scholarship: curriculum, instruction, learner assessment, personnel development, organizational development and leadership skills, and research and evaluation. In addition to the academic coursework, an electronic professional portfolio is developed as evidence of competence in eight medical educational leadership standards.