Dong received her medical degree from Wuhan University School of Medicine and later earned a PhD from the University of Connecticut Health Center, where her research focused on chemoattractant signaling in leukocyte activation at sites of infection and inflammation. During her rheumatology fellowship at Yale, she joined the lab of Joseph Craft, MD, Paul B. Beeson Professor of Medicine (Rheumatology) and professor of immunobiology, helping to establish the Yale Lupus Registry and Biorepository. Her current research explores cardiovascular risk and prevention in rheumatic diseases, particularly in patients with lupus.
Since joining the PCC as a rheumatology attending in 2019, Dong has created what residents describe as a learning environment where they feel both challenged and supported. She is known by trainees for her thoughtful mini-lectures, her focus on team-based learning, and her commitment to connecting clinical decision-making with core immunologic concepts.
“Dr. Dong always provides a valuable learning experience in Rheum Clinic,” one PCC resident shares. “She always takes time to go through her teaching PowerPoints and uses each patient as an opportunity to learn.”
Dong noted that she is impressed by the desire for learning and growth in rheumatology among the PCC rotation residents. “Rheumatic diseases are generally complex, affecting multiple systems and often leading to a range of complications if not treated timely,” she says. “My approach to teaching includes utilizing mini-lectures to promote team-based learning and understanding of the fundamental basis for autoimmune diseases, as well as directly engaging residents in patient care for rheumatic diseases to enhance practical knowledge and skills.”
Perhaps what makes this award most meaningful for Dong is that it comes directly from the residents themselves — those who have learned from her, worked alongside her, and experienced firsthand the clarity, care, and encouragement she brings to every encounter.
“The recognition coming from the residents is a direct expression of their positive learning experience in the PCC, which motivates me to continue striving for excellence in medical education strategy, especially as new technologies are rapidly reshaping various aspects of life, including medical teaching,” she says.
The award reflects the value Dong brings to resident education every day. As another resident put it, “Dr. Dong clearly has a passion for teaching and is one of the best educators I have had during a sub-specialty clinic.”
Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology, one of 10 sections in the Yale Department of Internal Medicine, is dedicated to providing care for patients with rheumatic, allergic and immunologic disorders; educating future generations of thought leaders in the field; and researching fundamental questions of autoimmunity and immunology. To learn more, visit Rheumatology, Allergy and Immunology.