Clinical Professor Michael Ernst is who he is today – a diligent researcher, inspiring mentor, and now 2026 University of Iowa (UI) College of Pharmacy Collegiate Teacher of the Year – because of open doors, literally. 

As a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) student at the UI, he found mentors in several faculty members. "The doors to their offices were always open,” Ernst said. “They were instrumental in helping me make the decisions to pursue residency training and eventually academic practice.”

Ernst never forgot the importance of his professors’ accessibility and now provides the same for students in all stages of their pharmacy training. From residencies to research, he goes above and beyond to set his students up for success. 

One student of his expressed early interest in pursuing residency. "From that point on, Dr. Ernst took every opportunity to check in on my residency search and made himself available for any advice or questions I may have," he said. The student recently matched with his top program choice.

Being approachable also builds trust. He’s had multiple students ask for advice about a family member’s hypertension, a condition he's spent years researching. “It is a humbling experience to be asked by a student about the treatment of their loved ones,” Ernst said.

Since beginning his academic career at the College of Pharmacy in 1998, Ernst’s teaching style has evolved. He considers the perspectives of his students and actively seeks feedback from them. This has led to a flexibility that allows him to teach to how students learn best. 

“His ability to shape clinical thinkers, inspire confidence in emerging professionals, and elevate the overall quality of pharmacy education has strengthened our program in ways that will resonate for years to come,” said Mary Schroeder, professor and department chair, Pharmacy Practice and Science.

As a preceptor and researcher, Ernst prioritizes real-world examples. He understands that many of his students lack practice experience, so he bridges the gap by integrating anecdotes from his own research and patient-care practice into lectures. This not only develops clinical judgement, but shows that Ernst “walks the walk” of what he teaches. 

His passion for strengthening clinical judgement extends beyond the classroom. When planning blood-pressure screening events as part of the American Heart Association Libraries with Heart program, Ernst went out of his way to involve the American College of Clinical Pharmacy student chapter. PharmD students gained valuable hands-on experience serving the local community. He enthusiastically attended all seven events and fostered a safe learning environment. Participating students said the initiative was instrumental in their professional development.

Ernst’s dedication to education comes from many places, but one student put it best: “Dr. Ernst is deeply committed to advancing the profession of pharmacy and leaving it better than he found it.”