Healthcare Continuing Education Professionals Day™, observed annually on the Friday of the third full week in January, recognizes the dedicated professionals who work behind the scenes to ensure clinicians remain current in medical knowledge, clinical practice, and team-based care, supporting high-quality, safe patient outcomes.

Why It Matters
The Office of Continuous Professional Development and Strategic Affairs (OCPDSA), which houses the University of South Carolina School of Medicine–Prisma Health Midlands Continuing Medical Education (USCSOM-PHM CME) organization, plays a vital role in delivering high-quality, accredited education. Through strategic planning, collaboration with leaders, faculty, and clinical partners, and adherence to accreditation standards, the team promotes lifelong learning, strengthens healthcare teams, and supports improved patient care across our communities.

Meet the School of Medicine Columbia Team
The School of Medicine Columbia OCPDSA team brings diverse expertise and a shared commitment to excellence in continuing professional development. Working collaboratively, they support faculty and learners, uphold accreditation standards, and ensure educational activities remain relevant, impactful, and aligned with evolving healthcare needs.

Benjamin W. Lamb, Jr., MBA

Role: Program Coordinator

How long have you worked in the OCPDSA? 3 years

What do you enjoy most about working in the CPD/CME field?  What I enjoy most about working in CME/CPD is playing a small part in helping bridge educational gaps for healthcare providers to improve patient care, outcomes, and professional development.

What is your favorite way to relax or recharge outside of work? My favorite way to relax or recharge outside of work is spending time with my wife and our 8-year-old Golden Retriever, Brody.

Elizabeth S. Hipp

Role: Program Assistant

How long have you worked in the OCPDSA? 23 years as of February 1, 2026

What do you enjoy most about working in the CPD/CME field? I enjoy working with a team that is dedicated to high quality, strong customer service, and always strives to get better.  

What is your favorite way to relax or recharge outside of work? Going on walks, eating dinner with friends/family, and a nice relaxing day on the beach.

J. Matthew Orr, PhD

Role: Associate Dean

How long have you worked in the OCPDSA? 10 years

What do you enjoy most about working in the CPD/CME field? I enjoy the challenge of addressing the range of learning needs that exist across professionals’ widely varying roles and responsibilities in academic medicine. I particularly enjoy working at the system level to partner with others to cultivate conditions in which others can effectively learn and practice.

What is your favorite way to relax or recharge outside of work? Spending time with my family, friends, dogs and sports!

Adrienne C. Ross, MEd, CHCP

Role: Accreditation Director

How long have you worked in the OCPDSA? 14 years

What do you enjoy most about working in the CPD/CME field? I find purpose in supporting meaningful education that improves patient outcomes and strengthens compassionate care for the patients and communities we serve. I also value contributing to the evolving landscape of how education is delivered and connecting with colleagues as our field continues to change.

What is your favorite way to relax or recharge outside of work? My favorite way to relax and recharge outside of work is by spending intentional time with my family and friends and creating meaningful moments. I also enjoy volunteering in schools and within my community, where I can encourage and inspire youth while contributing to efforts that strengthen and uplift the lives of those around me.

Nancy L. Williams

Role: Business Manager

How long have you worked in the OCPDSA?  28 years

What do you enjoy most about working in the CPD/CME field? I enjoy the opportunity to support others and help make a meaningful impact on patient care. I’m grateful to be part of a field where collaboration, continuous learning, and shared expertise can make a difference.

What is your favorite way to relax or recharge outside of work? My favorite way to relax is by spending time outdoors.  I love being surrounded by nature - whether taking a walk, enjoying quiet moments, or simply listening to the birds. I also enjoy tending to plants, which helps me slow down and stay grounded.

Morgan A. Rhodes, PharmD, BCACP, BC-ADM

Role: Director of Faculty Development

How long have you worked in the OCPDSA? 2 ½ years

What do you enjoy most about working in the CPD/CME field? One of my favorite parts of my role is the opportunity to collaborate across the entire academic and clinical communities of the School of Medicine and Prisma Health. It gives me a broader perspective on faculty needs and creates space for innovative, system-wide solutions. I enjoy supporting faculty development efforts by helping identify challenges, designing practical solutions, and ensuring faculty have the tools and resources they need to grow in their careers. Another part of the work that I deeply enjoy is mentoring faculty. Supporting others as they develop their teaching, leadership, and scholarly skills is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my role. Watching faculty gain confidence, expand their impact, and reach their professional goals reminds me why I’m passionate about this field. My role allows me to blend collaboration, creativity, and mentorship — all in service of advancing education and improving patient care.

What is your favorite way to relax or recharge outside of work? Spending time with my family and traveling.