Lyons teaches his first- and second-year medical students basic clinical skills, and directs the clerkship program for third- and fourth-year medical students, which allows them to interact with patients as medical professionals for the first time. He also instructs students and residents in adolescent health and obstetrics at Temple University Hospital.

Lyons noted that teaching and patient care are one in the same, because students love to talk to patients and hear their stories, which in turn makes the experience more meaningful to the patients.

A 2004 winner of the Lindback Award for Distinguished Teaching, Lyons consistently earns students’ praise as an esteemed mentor and role model.

“Dr. Lyons has been more than just a teacher and advisor; he has been a true mentor and friend,” said fourth-year medical student Jenny Chiang, who nominated Lyons for the award. “It is his involvement outside the classroom that shows his dedication to the students and sets him apart from other faculty.”

AMSA, the oldest and largest independent association of physicians-in-training in the United States, presents the National Golden Apple award each year to a medical school professor who has made a significant impact on the educational value that a medical student receives.