In Their Words: Perspective from Collaborators

“Liz is an incredible instructor. Every class is fun, welcoming, and full of laughs. I’ve seen people walk in nervous and unsure—and by week 12, they’re absolutely crushing it—I was one of them! Her energy and encouragement make all the difference. But most of all, you can tell she loves what she does. That kind of passion is rare, and it shows.”

˜ Clark K, AZAA student

“Liz’s coaching style is challenging yet supportive. She begins her relationship with a team by evaluating the group dynamic and team members individually to determine the best coaching structure for the team. She does not take a cookie cutter approach and tends not to focus on ‘run throughs’ as much as improv skills, relationships, and having a good time. Liz provides excellent critical feedback that focuses on the good and what can be strengthened. I have grown as an improvisor having Liz as a coach and both of my teams are stronger and more cohesive as a result of her approach.”

˜ Lauren S, Education Director and Improvisor

“I am pleased to provide this testimonial for Liz Hutchman as a teacher, performer, and colleague whom I met several years ago when I attended two improv workshops she offered. It was immediately apparent that Liz was both a talented performer and an experienced and effective improv instructor.

At that time, we were implementing mandatory medical improv training for students at the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix. As that program developed, we invited Liz to join as an instructor. Working closely with her as a co-facilitator, I found her to be highly effective with our students, even those who had their doubts about this training.

Liz also is a founding member and facilitator of the Health Improv Team (HIT) which focuses on innovative uses of improv to explore issues in health, aging, and care, and centered in patient, family and clinician experiences.”

˜ Howie Silverman, MD MS Professor, Departments of Biomedical Informatics, Family & Community Medicine, and Bioethics & Medical Humanism.

“I was lucky to have Liz as my direct manager, and still consider her a mentor. Her improv background comes through in her open-mindedness and willingness to volley ideas. She models how to blend warmth with assertiveness and how to bring a team together to achieve goals. Because of her respect, encouragement, and gentle nudging, I was able to step outside of my comfort zone and grow as an employee and as a person.“

~Erin W, Former Assistant