07/21/2026
Congratulations to our own Dr. Cody Blackwelder on being named VCOM Ruston Clinical Site Preceptor of the Year for the second consecutive year.
We are proud to have physicians who not only provide exceptional surgical care, but also invest in educating the next generation of physicians.
Dr. Cody Blackwelder Recognized as VCOM Ruston Preceptor of the Year for Second Consecutive Year
RUSTON, La. – Northern Louisiana Medical Center is proud to congratulate Dr. Cody Blackwelder, General Surgeon, on being named the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) Ruston Clinical Site Preceptor of the Year for the second consecutive year.
The annual award is especially meaningful because it is selected by the medical students themselves, recognizing the physician who has made the greatest impact on their clinical education, mentorship, and overall rotation experience during their time training in Ruston.
During their third and fourth years of medical school, VCOM students transition from classroom instruction to hands-on clinical education. Students select from designated clinical sites based on factors such as educational opportunities, location, specialty interests, and recommendations from previous students. Northern Louisiana Medical Center and Green Clinic proudly serve as one of VCOM's clinical training sites, where students gain invaluable real-world experience alongside experienced physicians.
As part of the General Surgery rotation, Dr. Blackwelder works closely with medical students, providing hands-on instruction, clinical mentorship, and guidance as they develop the skills and confidence needed to become future physicians.
Approximately 20 VCOM students complete clinical rotations in Ruston each year under the guidance of physicians across Northern Louisiana Medical Center and Green Clinic. The Ruston Clinical Site is coordinated by Clinical Site Coordinator, Morgan Talbert, who, alongside Dr. Sharma, Director of Student Medical Education, presented Dr. Blackwelder with this year's award.
"Medical education is an important part of our mission at Northern Louisiana Medical Center," said Monica Adams, Chief Executive Officer. "We are incredibly proud of Dr. Blackwelder for earning this honor for a second consecutive year. His commitment to mentoring future physicians reflects the excellence, compassion, and dedication to patient care that define our organization."
Northern Louisiana Medical Center congratulates Dr. Blackwelder on this outstanding achievement and thanks him for his continued investment in the next generation of healthcare providers.
