Jessica McGuinness Honored as Gannon University’s Clinical Instructor of the Year

During a recent ceremony at St. John Community, Dr. Connie Lewis, co-director of Clinical Education at Gannon University, presented Physical Therapist Jessica McGuinness the Instructor of the Year award.

“Every year, we have students nominate a Clinical Instructor of the Year, and this year, one of our students nominated Jessica,” explained Dr. Lewis. “We want to thank you for all that you do, not only for our program but for the profession.”

McGuinness, who graduated from Gannon University in 2009, has been with Lutheran SeniorLife for 12 years. Her passion for working in skilled care, especially with older adults, stems from her love for the setting, the opportunity to witness progression, and the ability to build meaningful relationships.

“I have never been bored at my job here at St. John,” McGuinness shared. “This award is student-nominated, which really means a lot to me. It’s an honor.”

McGuinness has guided 17 students through 10-12 week rotations, offering them invaluable hands-on experience. She fondly remembers each of her students by name and is committed to seeing their professional growth.

McGuinness’s dedication and excellence in clinical instruction continue to inspire both her students and colleagues, making a lasting impact on the future of physical therapy.

“Being that I went to Gannon, Gannon is definitely my preferred choice. It keeps me fresh, different things such as tests and styles that come out, it makes me a better clinician,” said McGuinness upon accepting her award. “Sometimes we forget why we do what we do, we get in routines and it’s good having students to keep that fresh.”

To celebrate her achievement, Gannon University presented McGuinness with a gift basket filled with school swag, a certificate, and a cake, which she joyfully shared with her friends and colleagues.

“She takes our Gannon students and many other students all the time, and they always rave about how much they learn from her,” said Dr. Lewis. “Our program could not exist without great clinical instructors… You are definitely one of the best.”