Dr. Laurence Ferber has been teaching UCF medical students and surgical residents at HCA Florida Ocala Hospital since he joined the College of Medicine Volunteer/Affiliate faculty in 2020. He received the 2025 Excellence in Teaching Award for his contributions to the education of our third-year medical students and that year was also appointed the designated Surgical Site Director.
Dr. Ferber obtained his M.D. degree from The University of Virginia School of Medicine in Charlottesville, VA and completed surgical residency at Union Memorial Hospital in Baltimore, MD. He is board certified by the American Board of Surgery and by the American Board of Vascular Medicine and is a diplomat in Endovascular Medicine. He has a prolific background in research and other scholarly activities, including being an instructor in Advanced Trauma Life Support.
Here is what UCF medical students say about Dr. Ferber:
- Dr. Ferber demonstrates an obvious respect for the input and opinions of residents and students, which made me feel much more comfortable participating in the surgical environment. His “chill” general attitude also helped me feel that I was safe to make mistakes and try new things to help myself learn. Every day that I worked with Dr. Ferber, I knew he valued my presence and wanted me to feel fulfilled and accomplished with the day’s work and learning. I feel happy and grateful to have worked with him.
- Dr. Ferber was an excellent instructor and mentor. He was approachable, kind and patient. I learned a lot under his guidance, not only about patient care but also about the inner workings of a hospital and even “soft” skills such as how to connect with patients. He demonstrated respect to all his residents and students and was very thorough with patients on rounds. He taught me most of what I know about the OR and gave students more opportunities to suture or cut than other experiences I have had. It was a joy to work with him!
- He provides many opportunities for students to learn hands-on. He also listens to presentations, gives great feedback, and shares quick learning moments that are very helpful. His positive energy and great dynamic with the team made working with him a great experience. He was approachable, open to answering questions and great at providing learning opportunities.
- Dr. Ferber is an excellent teacher who operates (both in and outside the OR) with kindness, humor, knowledgeable precision and patience when teaching.