UC San Diego Surgeon Wins True Triton Award for Student Mentorship

UC San Diego announced Monday that orthopedic surgeon Mark Schultzel has been selected as the 2026 recipient of the True Triton Award. The university confers this distinction on individuals who demonstrate extraordinary service and long term dedication to advancing its mission. Schultzel, a triple alumnus who holds degrees from the undergraduate program, the School of Medicine, and the Rady School of Management, was recognized for his sustained efforts to create professional pathways for current students.

Schultzel serves as chair of Orthopedic Surgery at United Medical Doctors and as orthopaedic surgery chief for Sharp Community Medical Group. His work with students extends beyond advisory boards for the School of Biological Sciences, the School of Medicine, and the Rady School of Management. He has mentored dozens of students through shadowing, clinical employment, and guidance on medical school applications.

The foundation of this mentorship began during his undergraduate years. Schultzel and his twin brother, Matthew, co-founded the UC San Diego chapter of Phi Delta Epsilon, a coeducational international medical fraternity. They created the organization after observing pre health students struggle to navigate competitive academic environments. The brothers also helped establish the university’s Kendo Club and competitive team, a role they continue to fulfill as instructors who coach current students and Team USA members.

Schultzel expanded his support model through the Take a Triton to Work program, which connects students with alumni for career exploration. After observing graduates struggle to find meaningful clinical experience, he began hiring UC San Diego alumni as medical assistants and clinical staff. He stated that this approach allowed students to gain hands on experience and learn how a medical practice operates. Currently, all six members of his clinical staff are UC San Diego graduates.

This structure creates a tiered support system within his office. His staff assist medical students during rotations, while those medical students then advise pre med students on applications and career transitions. Schultzel noted that this cycle helps students who might otherwise feel overwhelmed by unwritten rules in the health care industry. He emphasized that having the right connections and mentors can be decisive for students without established family networks in the field.

Many former students who rotated through Schultzel’s practice have since become physicians in the San Diego region. These doctors now exchange patient referrals with Schultzel and mentor the next group of students. Schultzel described this network as a community committed to paying it forward. He said the group works to make the local medical community stronger by ensuring that those who have navigated the path help those currently on it.

Schultzel expressed surprise at receiving the award, describing his work as a natural response to being in a position to help. He cited the university's continued expansion of student organizations and professional programs as a source of pride. He remains active in advisory roles across the campus, contributing to discussions on curricula, internships, and resources that help students transition from education to careers.