Rutgers ODASIS honors Dr. Barbara Etheridge for student mentorship

By AI, Created 1:01 PM UTC, June 01, 2026, /AGP/ – Rutgers’ ODASIS recognized Dr. Barbara Etheridge of Etheridge Family Medicine for years of mentoring undergraduate students preparing for medical careers. The award highlights her dual role as a family physician serving Central and Northern New Jersey and as a guide for future healthcare professionals.

Why it matters: - The recognition spotlights the role private physicians can play in expanding access to mentorship for students entering medicine. - Dr. Etheridge’s work connects classroom support with real-world clinical guidance, which can shape both career paths and patient care values. - The award also reinforces Etheridge Family Medicine’s community presence across Central and Northern New Jersey.

What happened: - Rutgers’ Office for Diversity and Academic Success in the Sciences honored Dr. Barbara Etheridge of Etheridge Family Medicine for mentoring ODASIS undergraduate students. - The award was presented by Dr. Kamal Khan. - The recognition covers Dr. Etheridge’s service from 2022 to the present. - Rutgers cited her sustained support for students pursuing medical careers and her impact on aspiring healthcare professionals.

The details: - Dr. Etheridge has helped undergraduates work through academic challenges. - Her mentorship has focused on building student confidence, discipline and interest in medicine. - The recognition also reflects her patient-centered approach as a Somerset, New Jersey, family medicine and primary care physician. - Etheridge Family Medicine serves individuals and families throughout Central and Northern New Jersey. - The practice offers preventive care, geriatrics, diagnostic testing, treatment planning, medication management, specialist referrals and tele-health appointments. - Dr. Etheridge said the recognition matters because mentoring future physicians creates opportunities, builds confidence and helps students stay focused on their goals. - Dr. Etheridge has been named one of NJ Top Docs for more than 14 consecutive years. - Her practice emphasizes preventive health and strong doctor-patient relationships. - Patients can learn more at more information.

Between the lines: - The award frames mentorship as part of a physician’s broader community role, not just an extracurricular effort. - Dr. Etheridge’s recognition suggests sustained involvement rather than a one-time volunteer effort, given the 2022-to-present timeline. - The combination of academic mentoring and primary care work gives the honor added weight for students considering medicine as a career.

What’s next: - Dr. Etheridge is expected to continue mentoring ODASIS students while maintaining her family medicine practice. - Etheridge Family Medicine will keep offering primary care, geriatrics and tele-health visits for patients in the region. - The Rutgers recognition may further elevate Dr. Etheridge’s visibility among students and patients seeking a community-focused physician.