Our Residents

Catherine Artemov, MD

Jacobs School of Medicine at the University at Buffalo

Hi there! My family immigrated from Russia and I was the first generation born in Brooklyn, NY. I grew up in Staten Island and relocated to Geneseo for college, where I received my degree in psychology. Between college and medical school, I worked as an MCAT Live-Online class instructor as well as a phlebotomist/medical assistant in an urgent care facility in NYC at the start of the COVID pandemic. For medical school, I ventured back to western New York and attended the University at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. During my time in medical school, I pursued a certification in Trauma Informed Care and Motivational Interviewing. I am a strong advocate for mental health awareness and I believe that a support system, doctor-patient relationship included, is half the battle in healing (even from physical ailments!). I hope to foster this strong therapeutic bond with future patients in a full-scope outpatient family medicine practice.

In my spare time, you can find me contemplating life knee deep in a creek in the middle of nowhere (fishing is one of my favorite hobbies). Other favorite hobbies include hiking, singing, playing guitar and piano, and spending time with my cat, family, and friends.

Zelda Blair, MD

University of Minnesota Medical School

Hello! I was born in Birmingham, AL, and moved around a lot growing up: to Miami, FL, Bellefonte, PA, and Newtown, PA, where I went to high school at George School. I spent many formative years in NYC during and after college, on my winding road to medical school: I earned a BFA in painting from Pratt Institute in 2013 and worked in restaurants in Brooklyn before taking my first step towards learning about healthcare by studying at the Blue Ridge School of Herbal Medicine in Asheville, NC, in 2016. My experience there inspired me to pursue a post-bacc pre-med program at NYU, which I completed in 2019. During that time I also took courses in philosophy, and earned my MA in philosophy of science at the University of Western Ontario in 2020. I attended medical school at the University of Minnesota and was an RPAP student in Long Prairie, MN, during my third year.

I knew from the start of medical school that I wanted to practice family medicine in order to meet the needs of medically under-served communities, empower people to manage their health, and advocate for their ability to do so. As a medical student I gained experience with service and advocacy by volunteering in urban and rural free clinics and serving on the board of my local chapter of Physicians for a National Health Program (PNHP). My areas of interest within family medicine include mental health, integrative medicine, and reproductive health.

I am very happy to be back in NY for residency to be closer to my partner, who is currently a PhD candidate in music composition at UB, as well as my family in NYC. Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, reading, and bike riding -- and I still make art once in a while.

Mackenzie Corcoran, DO

Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hi everyone! I grew up in Groton, NY, a small town outside of Ithaca, NY. From there, I left and went to the Pennsylvania State University (We Are!) for my undergraduate degree where I majored in biology with a focus in vertebrate physiology. During my time at Penn State, I was involved in science education and had a goal of combining my passions of education and medicine by becoming a physician. I moved to Elmira, NY to continue my education at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. During my preclinical years, I was an active member of the American Medical Women’s Association (AMWA) and the OBGYN club. Through my involvement with these organizations, I worked closely with the YWCA of Elmira to help run a feminine hygiene product drive and fundraise for their Pink Boutique. I became drawn to family medicine during my clinical years while rotating through clinics and hospitals that served my home community. I love the broad scope of practice and the longitudinal relationships that family medicine has to offer. I am excited to continue my training at the University of Rochester and to further explore the different areas of family medicine, especially women’s health, reproductive justice and family planning, and pediatrics.

Outside of medicine, I enjoy spending summers on Owasco lake. I also love to read, explore new places and restaurants with family and friends, and spend time with my pets (Allie and Bones).

Henry Gleich, MD

University of Massachusetts Chan School of Medicine

Hello everyone! I was born and raised in the Worcester, MA area. After graduating from Bowdoin College with a degree in Anthropology, I returned to Massachusetts for a post-bacc premedical studies program at Brandeis University. Prior to medical school, I also worked as a medical scribe in an emergency department and was able to see a range of patient presentations. During my time at UMass Medical School, I was drawn to Family Medicine by the opportunity for providers to develop deep relationships with their patients and offer holistic care; it felt like the perfect speciality to be applying my interest in sociocultural anthropology. Within Family Medicine, I am particularly interested in sports medicine, community medicine, and geriatrics — among other things!

Outside of medicine, I enjoy being a Boston sports fan (especially of the Celtics), playing tennis with my partner, and exploring new cuisines/restaurants.

Lisa Gu, MD

Rutgers New Jersey Medical School

Hi everyone! I was born in Canada but grew up in Marlboro, NJ for most of my life. I completed my undergraduate degree at Union College in Schenectady, NY in computer engineering but ultimately decided to pursue a career in medicine after enjoying my volunteer and community service work with the local Ellis Hospital. I returned home for medical school at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School and was active in the free student run clinic, providing care to the homeless patients in Newark. This eventually drew me to family medicine as I wanted to continue to provide broad-spectrum and long-term care to underserved communities. I am excited to return to upstate New York for residency at the University of Rochester and begin the next leg of the journey!

In my free time, I enjoy reading fictional sci-fi and fantasy books, spending time with my cat Kiki, building wooden models, traveling, and finding new restaurants to enjoy.

Rachel Johnson, MD

University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry

Hi all! I was born and raised in Richmond, VA, and I graduated from the College of William & Mary in 2016 with a double major in Accounting and Chinese and Language and Literature. While at W&M, I was on the founding executive board for the W&M chapter of Camp Kesem, a summer camp for kids whose parents have cancer, and through that experience I learned of the complex social needs that often accompany illness. After graduation, I worked as a CPA in public accounting for 3 years in Washington, DC, during which time I served low income and limited English taxpayers through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program.

After deciding to pursue a career in medicine, I completed the Postbaccalaureate Premedical Program at Bryn Mawr College in 2020, followed by medical school at the University of Rochester. While here at the University of Rochester I’ve worked with a number of organizations, including the Health and Incarceration Connection student organization, Street Outreach, URWell, and White Coats 4 Black Lives. I feel incredibly fortunate to have been surrounded by classmates who have shown me the depths of community-centered care and a humanistic approach to medicine.

I am passionate about providing thoughtful and competent primary care for underserved and marginalized communities. I speak professional working Spanish and conversational Mandarin Chinese, and I believe that immigrant communities deserve culturally and linguistically competent care. I am so grateful for the opportunity to pursue my residency in Family Medicine here and hope to continue to develop skills in harm reduction, gender-affirming care, reproductive justice, and care for patients experiencing homelessness. In my non-medical life, I love watching Jeopardy with my grandparents, biking along the Erie Canal with my partner, and sharing laughs over home-cooked meals with friends.

Peter Juviler, MD

University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry

I grew up outside of Boston and attended Colgate University, where I studied molecular biology and creative writing. I worked as an EMT for 3 years during my time in Hamilton, NY, which allowed me work with local community members and serve the surrounding rural area. I graduated from the University of Rochester School of Medicine and remained in Rochester to train in general surgery, during which time I investigated healthcare system improvements and helped lead a peer support program for children and families with new gastrostomy tubes. Throughout my training, I’ve been interested in the medical humanities and how this lens can support the care of our patients. This interest certainly fits well with Rochester’s strong history in biopsychosocial medicine. I love living in Rochester and enjoy picking berries in the summer and apples in the fall, exploring local parks, and navigating Rochester’s many waterways via paddleboard.

Sarah Peltz, DO

New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hi all! My name is Sarah and I'm originally from a small town right outside of Albany, NY. I've always loved math and science growing up, and therefore I chose to pursue a degree in biomedical engineering with the goal of going to medical school! Fun fact, I actually started my higher education journey at the University of Rochester, but transferred after my freshman year to the University at Buffalo, where I graduated from. During my time at UB, I was an active member of the Residence Hall Association (RHA), where my advisors and peers taught me about leadership, advocacy, service, and recognition. These are values that I am very passionate about, and ones that drew me towards family medicine. While in medical school at NYITCOM, I grew excited about serving people who use drugs and harm reduction, as well as reproductive healthcare and justice! One of my goals is to use my role as a physician to advocate for my patients and all individuals on a national scale. I am excited to learn more about addiction medicine, obstetrics and deliveries, gender-affirming care, nutrition medicine, and health advocacy in residency. I LOVE the diversity in family medicine, and cannot wait to start my training at URMC!

I am a New Yorker through and through (never having lived in any other state), and I love the Western NY region... go Bills! Outside of medicine I love to cook/bake, explore new restaurants, hike, spin, and spend time laughing with my family, friends, and partner. I am someone who is super inspired by strong women. That list includes my mother, two beautiful sisters, and all my incredible girlfriends. My favorite book is "Text Me When You Get Home" by Kayleen Schaefer, a book about the power of female friendship gifted to me by my best friend :) Some of my other favorites - shows: Parks & Rec and Ted Lasso, podcasts: Crackdown and Maintenance Phase, season: summer (I love the beach), artist: Noah Kahan, ice cream flavor: chocolate (a classic).

Julia Sagasta, DO

University of New England College or Osteopathic Medicine

Hello everyone! I am a Western NY native, growing up in the northtowns of Buffalo NY. For undergrad, I went to Canisius College in Buffalo where I majored in biology and was a varsity swimmer. I moved to the beautiful southern coast of Maine for my medical education at University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine.

My interest for Family Medicine blossomed during my time between undergrad and medical school when I participated in a medical mission trip to rural Nicaragua and Costa Rica and saw the direct impact of having a general physician present in communities opposed to communities without. Noting this, my interest continued to grow during medical school where I was surrounded by fearless full-spectrum Family Medicine physicians with broad ranges of interests in combination with preventative care; confirming this was the right specialty for me to best serve my future patients. My interests in medicine include Lifestyle Medicine, Sports Medicine, and OMT.

In my spare time, I enjoy being outside exploring by running and biking; I especially enjoy local running races and triathlons. I also enjoy reading, exploring local bakeries and restaurants with my significant other and spending time with our cat Harbor. I am so excited to be moving back home to WNY for residency at URMC Highland Hospital and look forward to serving the Rochester community! Go Bills!

Stacie Sammott, MD

Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University

Hi Everyone! I’m Stacie. I was born in Jamaica and lived there until I was 10 years old. The rest of my childhood was spent in Toronto, Canada. I attended Bowdoin College where I studied neuroscience and played varsity soccer. After college, I dabbled in a few things, including, education technology, coaching, teaching and like many pre-med students eventually landed a job as a research assistant. Through my research I found my passion for medicine, and subsequently did a DIY postbacc at home in Toronto. I attended medical school at The Renaissance School of Medicine, at Stony Brook University, and am thrilled to be continuing my medical training as a resident at The University of Rochester. I am passionate about improving access to primary care in medically underserved communities and hope to practice in an urban setting in the future. My clinical interests include geriatrics, palliative medicine, psychosocial medicine and medical education.

Outside of medicine, I enjoy playing soccer, live music/going to concerts, and spending time with my family. I also spend an inordinate amount of time watching food review videos, but more importantly trying new restaurants and cuisine. I’m really looking forward to checking out the Rochester food scene!

Jack Scheutzow, MD

Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University

Hello everyone! I'm Jack, originally from Fairport, NY, a suburb of Rochester situated along the Erie Canal. I pursued my undergraduate education at the University of Richmond, a small liberal arts school in Virginia. During this time, I conducted research on tsetse fly endosymbionts, was actively involved in men’s club volleyball, and spent a semester abroad in Switzerland. In May 2020, I graduated with dual degrees: a BS in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and a BA in French. After graduation, I began my path toward an MD at Stony Brook University Renaissance School of Medicine. While in medical school, I volunteered with our student-run free clinic, engaged in curriculum development, and participated in a global health partnership in Madagascar, where I worked with a mobile health team to deliver primary care services to remote communities. Through these experiences, I discovered my passion for Family Medicine. I value this speciality because it allows me to serve as the primary contact for patients of all ages and cultivate meaningful, long-term relationships. My particular interests include lifestyle medicine, LGBTQ+ health, and medical education. I’m incredibly thrilled to return home and further explore these passions during my residency training at the University of Rochester!

Outside of medicine, I enjoy endlessly kneading sourdough bread, struggling through NYT Sunday crossword puzzles with my boyfriend, and admiring various species of birds while playing the board game Wingspan with my friends.

Stefanie Stockhamer, MD

Ben-Gurion University of the Negev Faculty of Health Sciences

Hello everyone! I’m Stefanie and I’m originally from Toronto, Canada. I studied Biomedical Sciences and Family & Child Studies at the University of Guelph, and after a profound medical trip to Guatemala in 2019, I fell in love with global health. This ultimately led me to pursue my M.D. at the Medical School for International Health at Ben Gurion University of the Negev in Be’er Sheva, Israel. In my final year of medical school, I travelled to Nepal to participate in clerkships at Patan Hospital near Kathmandu. I am eager to continue making global health a part of my training through URMC’s global health program. One of my favorite opportunities during medical school was acting as a music therapy volunteer at my teaching hospital, where I regularly sang and played music for patients who needed company, were struggling through difficult diagnoses, or just needed some cheering up in otherwise hard circumstances. My love for the music and arts continues through the lens of family medicine where I hope to provide holistic, empathetic patient-centered care. Within family medicine, I am eager to integrate my passions for preventative care, social determinants of health, nutrition and lifestyle, chronic disease management, LGBTQ+ health and women’s health. Outside of medicine, I enjoy karaoke nights with friends, powerlifting, following the Marvel Cinematic Universe (a little too closely) with my husband, and spending time with my cats. I am beyond excited to join URMC Family Medicine and am thrilled to serve the Rochester community.

Back to Top

Sindy Anton, DO

Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine

I was born and raised in Toronto, ON, in a lively multigenerational household with my sister, parents, and grandparents. Growing up in a community rich with Tamil culture, shaped by a diaspora that fled Sri Lanka's civil war, allowed me to embrace my identity as a daughter of immigrants and celebrate my culture fully. Tamil is not only my mother tongue but also my first language.

My journey toward medicine wasn't linear. Years of tutoring and mentorship naturally led me to pursue teaching at the University of Toronto Scarborough. As a first-generation college student, I navigated the undergraduate education system without personal connections in healthcare, so medicine wasn't initially on my radar. However, a one-year internship as a clinical research assistant changed that. Interacting with patients, managing their care, and shadowing physicians ignited a passion for medicine. Three years later, I moved away from my family to attend the Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine in Glendale, AZ.

During medical school, I noticed significant gaps in preventive care within my community. Being the first in my family to pursue medicine, I was uniquely positioned to understand these disparities, and this fueled my commitment for preventive medicine. I also discovered my love for obstetrics, and I am passionate about the unique perspective a family doctor can offer to pregnant women. My interest in obstetrics is rooted in the desire to offer comprehensive, full-spectrum care for women, which family medicine uniquely allows by integrating obstetric care with ongoing health management across all life stages.

In my free time, I enjoy reading, cooking, traveling, and spending time with loved ones. Rochester's proximity to Toronto—just a three-hour drive—excites me, as it brings me closer to family and friends. After years on the opposite side of the country, I'm eager to spend my “golden weekends” at home.

Ehud Berger, MD

Technion Israel Institute of Technology

Hi everyone! I was born and raised in the multicultural city of Haifa, Israel. I completed my medical education at both Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and the Technion Medical School. Throughout medical school, I developed a passion for teaching and health education, organizing free first aid courses for underserved communities and teaching an academic course in medicine for incarcerated individuals. I also worked as a rock-climbing instructor, combining my love for teaching with my passion for the outdoors. These experiences reinforced my belief in the power of education to promote health and empower individuals.

I was drawn to Family Medicine during my clinical rotations, where I loved the full spectrum of care, the continuity of patient relationships, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives. 

Outside of medicine, I enjoy spending time with my family, being outdoors—running, skiing, rock climbing, and hiking—and reading books whenever I get the chance. I’m excited to join the University of Rochester Family Medicine team and look forward to learning and growing alongside my colleagues.

Britta Black, MD

Washington State University College of Medicine

Hello! I grew up in Sammamish, Washington, just 30 minutes east of Seattle, and will always call the Pacific Northwest home. I attended Azusa Pacific University in Southern California for my undergraduate degree to study two of my passions: biology and humanities. My time at APU taught me how complementary the arts and sciences can be and how they enhance one another’s beauty. While studying abroad in Quito, Ecuador during this time, I began to understand how my academic interests as well as my personal values of relationships and community engagement were guiding me on my path to medicine.  

After taking one gap year, I attended Washington State University in Spokane, Washington for medical school. While at WSU, some of my favorite activities were leading a high school mentorship program and being part of a research study on the perception of contraceptives shared on social media. I chose family medicine because I am passionate about longitudinal relationships, preventative medicine, and caring for patients of all different ages, backgrounds, and life experiences. My clinical interests include maternal-fetal health, palliative care, and lifestyle medicine. I am looking forward to training at the University of Rochester to learn how to care for the whole person and practice full-spectrum family medicine. 

Outside of medicine, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, trying my hand at new recipes, playing card games, dancing at Zumba classes, and daydreaming about one day owning a dog. I am excited to start exploring upstate New York and taking my medical training from one coast to the other!

Stefanie Blejec, DO

New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hi everyone! I grew up in New York City and over the years have lived in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens. My dad immigrated to the US from Slovenia, and my mom grew up right here in Rochester! I’m a city girl at heart, but I’m excited to explore a new life rhythm in Rochester.

Before pursuing medicine, I studied creative writing at SUNY Binghamton and spent many years working in real estate. I’ve always had a strong interest in wellness, health, and advocacy, and decided to pivot my career toward healthcare in my mid-twenties. My first role in healthcare was as a Prenatal Care Coordinator through the Community Health Practicum at the Institute for Family Health. I had the opportunity to organize and co-facilitate Centering Pregnancy group prenatal visits and received birth doula training. These experiences taught me the joy of building relationships with patients over time, the strength of community in healthcare, and the beauty of a model that embraces the full context of people’s lives.

Later, I worked as a Clinical Research Coordinator at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and returned to real estate during transitions. I’m genuinely grateful to have found my path to medicine, and I’m so excited to begin my journey as a Family Medicine resident at the University of Rochester. I look forward to partnering with patients on their healthcare journeys and fostering an open, nonjudgmental space for all.

My clinical interests include obstetrics, full-spectrum reproductive health, LGBTQ+ care, gender-affirming care, hormone replacement therapy, geriatric medicine, lifestyle medicine, and carceral medicine.

Outside of medicine, I love going on walks with my dog, nerding out over history, reading fiction, and staying active at the gym. I’m currently on a mission to build strength and learn how to lift heavy.

Theresa Coutinho, MD

Cooper Medical School of Rowan University

Hello everyone! My name is Theresa. I was born and raised in Haddon Township, New Jersey, in the suburbs just outside of Philadelphia. A child of Indian immigrants and a family full of healthcare workers, I knew right from a young age that I wanted to pursue a career in medicine. I graduated from Rowan University with my Bachelor’s degree in Biological Science and a minor in Psychology. During those years, I had the opportunity to volunteer at the free clinic connected to my future medical school. There, I fell in love with primary care. The ability to work up concerns from scratch, the close relationships, the comprehensive nature of the specialty, the continuity of care. I loved every part of it! 

I went on to get my medical degree from Cooper Medical School of Rowan University in Camden, New Jersey where I strived to connect with the inner city community. From providing college advising for high school students to interning in a dual-language summer preschool to teaching English as a Second Language to providing care coordination for that same student clinic, my time in medical school shaped my desire to become a comprehensive, community-centered physician who could take care of everybody. Within medicine, I have strong interests in medical education, mentorship, community medicine, and maternal-child health. 

In my free time, you can find me singing musical soundtracks around the house, taking care of my plants, watching reality tv shows, crocheting, visiting coffee shops, and trying out new recipes.

LauraAnne Hirschler, DO

Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hello everyone! I was born and raised in Rochester, NY and I am overjoyed to be able to give back to my community through pursuing Family Medicine at Highland Family Medicine! Training at the University of Rochester is a full circle experience for me as I had a liver transplant at the age of 7 months old at the University of Rochester. The compassionate care I received growing up as a transplant recipient from my medical team inspired me to become a physician. Throughout high school, college, and medical school I have been a member of the Strong Memorial Hospital Transplant Volunteer Program, a role I continue to enjoy. I also discovered early in life that I had a keen interest in science which made attending Rochester Institute of Technology a perfect fit. I studied Biomedical Sciences and minored in American Sign Language which I continue to be fluent in. Also, very near and dear to my heart is volunteering for the Gliding Stars of Rochester, an adaptive figure skating program for individuals with disabilities, where I teach participants how to figure skate. I love watching my “Stars” overcome personal challenges they face, increase musculoskeletal strength and stability, and gain social-emotional skills. During high school and undergrad, I was a competitive figure skater and competed on a synchronized skating team as well as dabbling in ice dancing. These varied life experiences led me to attend Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, where I became heavily involved in Health Reach-Healthcare for the Homeless. This program fueled my passion to care for underserved communities, especially in my home city and strengthened my commitment to pursue Family Medicine because of the ability it offers me to provide holistic, full spectrum care for families of all backgrounds. I am especially interested in maternal-child health, breastfeeding and lactation medicine, and providing equitable healthcare for underserved populations. 

Outside of medicine, I enjoy cooking dairy free meals with my boyfriend, who is also pursuing residency here in Rochester. Managing my anaphylactic dairy allergy has forced us to become adventurous and skilled at cooking (it’s always a trial and error process). Spending time with my family and my two extremely fluffy cats, Marshmallow and Fluff, having coffee with my friends (I’m a huge espresso fan) and doing local organ donation advocacy work are also among some of my favorite past times. I am truly excited and grateful for the opportunity to attend residency at Highland Family Medicine and to be a part of this wonderful community! 

Amy LoTemplio, MD

State University of New York Upstate Medical University

Hi all! I was born and raised in Plattsburgh, NY. Growing up I enjoyed playing a variety of sports and exploring the wonderful Adirondack Mountains. After high school, I attended to Colby College in Maine, where I studied biochemistry and environmental science. In college, I fell in love with biology and medicine and decided that I wanted to be a doctor. After college I spent some time doing bench research in Bar Harbor, Maine studying hematopoiesis. After this, I worked as a substitute teacher at my high school. After that, I worked for a year at a health-tech start-up called MyHealthMath based in Portland, Maine. 

In medical school, I was lucky to be involved in an organization called Physicians for Human Rights where I worked to help facilitate medical forensic evaluations for asylum seekers. This work sparked my passion for working with refugee, immigrant, and asylee communities, and I continued to work with this patient population throughout medical school. I chose family medicine because I believe that family doctors are uniquely suited to addressing the societal and social factors that influence health. I enjoy being able to take care of anyone who walks in the door, regardless of their age, gender, identity, or health condition. I am very excited to train at the University of Rochester! Outside of work, I enjoy running, cycling, hiking, swimming, sports (ice hockey and soccer) and basically anything else outdoors.

Ian Mac Taggart, MD

State University of New York Upstate Medical University

Hi! My name is Ian and I grew up in Newark, NY, a small town between Rochester and Syracuse. Never straying too far from snow or the Erie Canal, I went on to study biomedical science at the University at Buffalo and attended medical school at SUNY Upstate in Syracuse. While at Upstate, I was part of the rural medicine program which provided the opportunity to do rotations near my hometown. Whether I was in the rural finger lakes or urban Syracuse, the breadth and adaptability of Family Medicine to fill needs in the community affirmed my passion for the specialty. I am beyond excited to begin residency here in Rochester and learn how to best serve this region that has supported me so much. 

Outside of medicine, you can find me attempting to cook a new recipe in a reasonable amount of time, strategizing during a board game night, rooting for the Bills or McLaren F1 team, and spending time with my wife and our beloved Maine Coon cat Hershie.

Denisha McCurchin, MD

City University of New York School of Medicine

Greetings Friends! I am Denisha Miracle McCurchin and my life work is to heal through ministry, music, and medicine. As a woman of faith, Guyanese American and graduate of the CUNY School of Medicine, I endeavor to bring wholistic care to underserved populations in urban and rural areas. I realized that family medicine gave me the most leverage to provide care for entire communities and take care of people across the spectrum of life. In fact, I also, plan to complete a fellowship in surgical obstetrics to help quell the tide of maternal mortality in all communities especially those laden with health-related social needs. Moreover, I am vested in helping persons cultivate healthy lifestyles that promote health and prevent and reverse disease. Now, as a singer and flute player, I have had the opportunity to sing in myriad arenas: white coat ceremonies, graduations, churches, funerals, weddings and even in patient rooms. I also have a podcast with a colleague called Medicine in Ministry where we empower people with the tools to learn about their bodies and take charge of their health. I take joy in teaching, tutoring and public speaking, which are avenues for me to inspire generations of learners and stakeholders to live their fullest life.

Cassidy McGinn, MD

State University of New York Upstate Medical University

Hi everyone! I’m from Tully, a small farming town just 20 minutes south of Syracuse, NY. I spent the majority of my adolescence running the roads of my rural community and waitressing at local restaurants. After high school I attended SUNY Geneseo where I studied chemistry and ran cross country and track and field. 

After college, I worked as a research chemist before deciding to attend SUNY Upstate for medical school. During my time in medical school, I was actively involved in the Rural Medical Scholars Program and took advantage of multiple opportunities to participate in rural clinical experiences. I spent my second and third year working with a family medicine doctor in Cortland which reaffirmed my passion for preventative care and integrative health. I’m currently interested in practicing full scope family medicine including preventative health, hospital medicine, obstetrics, and integrative medicine. 

Alongside medicine, I enjoy running, lifting, baking, reading (and talking about books to anyone who will listen), coffee and live music. I am so excited to begin my career as a physician at URMC and work with patients from the greater Rochester area.

Catherine Ramos, MD

Albany Medical College of Union University

Hello! I was born and raised in the Mid-Hudson Valley, primarily in Marlboro, NY where there were more apple trees than people. I attended SUNY Albany where I majored in Biology and spent my time outside of the classroom volunteering as an EMT. Before starting medical school, I worked as a hospital nurse’s aide at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. For medical school, I attended Albany Medical College where I was grateful for the chance to continue serving the community that I had already come to know so well. Throughout those years, I dedicated much of my time to mentoring fellow students, especially through my work with the First-Generation & Low-Income in Medicine Association (FGLIMed). I found joy in creating spaces where others felt supported and empowered to succeed. I also engaged in advocacy and research focused on disability inclusion and postpartum sexual health which further drove my commitment to health equity and patient-centered care. 

In medical school, I was inspired to go into family medicine after reflecting on my experience growing up with one family physician caring for my entire family where I recognized how rare and meaningful that kind of continuity really was. As I worked with patients across different settings, I found myself drawn to this field for its emphasis on building long-term relationships, listening to each person’s story, and finding creative outside-the-box ways to help patients navigate the challenges they face. My clinical interests primarily reside where medicine meets advocacy, including preventive medicine, reproductive health, addiction medicine, geriatrics, and care for underserved populations.  

In my free time, I am often playing with my cat Bean, baking cookies, experimenting with new kitchen recipes, listening to NPR, or riding my bike. I love exploring new places and local restaurants with friends and family. I am incredibly excited to be joining U of R and eager to get involved in the community!

Twisha Shah, MD

West Virginia University School of Medicine

Hello! I was born in Gujarat, India and I immigrated to the United States with my family when I was 7 years old. We have moved all over the country from South Carolina to Texas to Connecticut to West Virginia, and now to New York! My family is currently in Connecticut, which is the first place that has felt like home since I left India. 

I pursued my undergraduate education at the University of Connecticut. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Molecular Cell Biology. After graduation, I pursued a Masters of Science in Healthcare Genetics during which I spent significant time teaching genetics to high school students in a STEM program over the summer. Then I moved to West Virginia to obtain my M.D. at West Virginia University School of Medicine! During my time at WVU, I was involved in many different groups such as the Academic Council and the AMA to advocate for our student body. My favorite experience during medical school was volunteering with MUSHROOM, an outreach program for the unhoused population. This experience has helped me realize my passion to care for the vulnerable communities and advocate for all my patients, in and outside the clinic. Throughout medical school, I found myself drawn to women’s health and family medicine. I am so excited to learn more about obstetrics, reproductive justice, gender-affirming care, and health advocacy.

In my non-medical life, I love being outdoors with my dog, Ollie, and exploring new places with my husband, Ryan. I enjoy hiking, painting, crocheting, reading, and cooking!

Danielle Vargas, MD

New York Medical College

Hi everyone! My name is Danielle and I am from the Bronx, the best borough of New York City. I received my BA in Individualized Studies at New York University with an interdisciplinary concentration in science and society. Before medical school, I worked as a research assistant in a lab investigating mitochondrial DNA and was a member of a community based organization advocating for affordable housing and healthcare in the Bronx. I continued pursuing my interests in social justice, health equity, and mentorship throughout medical school at New York Medical College. I am excited to leave hour long commutes behind and experience all that Rochester has to offer!

William Collins, MD

State University of New York Upstate Medical University

Hi everyone, I’m Will! I am originally from Lockport, NY, just outside of Buffalo. I attended the University at Buffalo for my undergraduate education, where I studied biomedical science. During my time at UB, I was involved in smoking cessation research, played in volleyball leagues, and volunteered at free medical clinics in the community.

After graduating college in 2020, I worked as a medical assistant at a local physician’s office before attending SUNY Upstate for medical school. While in medical school, I served as a teaching assistant for the Practice of Medicine course, Vice President for the local Lions Club, and volunteered at a free vision clinic in downtown Syracuse. It was also during my time at Upstate that I discovered my passion for Family Medicine. I was particularly drawn to being able to form long-lasting relationships with my patients based on trust, compassion, and understanding. I’m currently interested in practicing full-scope family medicine and am very excited to begin my career here at URMC!

Outside of medicine, I enjoy cooking new recipes with my fiancé, playing volleyball, exploring new restaurants in the community, spending time with friends and family, including our cats, and rooting for the Bills!

Elisha Earley, MD

Jacobs School of Medicine at the University at Buffalo

Hello! I grew up in Rochester and attended Michigan Technological University located in the upper peninsula of Michigan where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology. I then moved back to Rochester and received a graduate certificate in Medical Laboratory Science at the University of Rochester. Upon completion, I worked in the Blood Bank at Strong Memorial Hospital for 2 years prior to attending medical school.

I moved to Buffalo to attend medical school at the University at Buffalo. During my time in medical school, my most impactful experiences were as a manager for the student-run, free medical clinic. These experiences sparked my interest in primary care, public health, and improving health outcomes in underserved communities. I chose family medicine for its full spectrum, holistic practice, and many opportunities to form meaningful connections with patients. My interests include community health, women’s health, and dermatology.

Outside of medicine, I enjoy reading, trail running, gardening, and hiking.

Brianne Giuffrida, MD

Drexel University College of Medicine

Hi everyone! My name is Brianne, I grew up here in Rochester and am excited to return to Rochester for residency! I graduated from Honeoye Falls Lima High School before moving to Bethlehem, PA to attend Lehigh University. At Lehigh, I earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Molecular Biology and a Bachelor’s of Arts in Health, Medicine and Society focusing on public and community health.

For medical school, I attended Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia, PA. During my time in medical school, I combined my passion for public health and my love for traveling by completing research projects in global health focusing on access to musculoskeletal supplies in low- to middle-income countries. I have a love for teaching that began in high school as a biology tutor, extended throughout undergrad and medical school as a TA, and I am now an active tutor and mentor with Med School Insiders for students across the United States. I am drawn to family medicine for its full spectrum practice with opportunities to build a career rooted in medical education, public health, and global medicine.

Outside of medicine, I have a passion for traveling and experiencing different cultures. Prior to medical school, I took a gap year to pursue a lifelong dream of solo backpacking and have since backpacked to over 25 countries spanning North and South America, Asia, Europe, and Africa. In addition to traveling, my other hobbies include long distance running, road cycling, hiking, and cooking.

KJ Gormley, DO

University of Pikeville — Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hello all. I’m a non-traditional resident originally from Maine. I received my Anthropology B.A. from Smith College with a focus on women’s health and Latin America. I then spent a decade in the tech industry, splitting my time between NYC, Maine, and backpacking around the world. I came to medicine via volunteer work in health equity with the LGBTQ community.

My medical school, University of Pikeville Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine, was in rural Appalachia and imbued me with a passion for medicine practiced at the margins. While attending KYCOM, I was President of the Public Health & Ethics Club, co-founded the LGBTQ Medicine club, was Secretary of the ACOFP student chapter, and helped out after the three natural disasters that befell the region during my tenure. My choice of specialty was brought about by looking for the physicians walking the talk of caring for underserved patients, as well as my osteopathic foundations that centered holistic care.

My interests within Family Medicine are in LGBTQ Health, Global Health, full-scope contraception, OMT, and hospice/palliative care. Outside of the clinic, I enjoy hitting up museums, linocut printing, creative writing, scuba diving, ice skating, and relaxing at home with my spouse (a fellow URMC Resident in Pathology) and our two very spoiled cats.

Sophia Hanna, DO

Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hi everyone! I was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA before moving to the Corning, NY area prior to high school. While Pittsburgh will always be home and is where most of my family still lives, I have absolutely loved my time in the Finger Lakes region and am grateful to call these two communities home. Truly nothing beats an upstate New York summer! I stayed in the area for college, going to Binghamton University and majoring in Economics and Biology. During this time I developed an interest in healthcare systems, particularly how economic principles can be applied to better understand and improve the delivery of care.

For medical school I attended the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Erie, PA and completed my clinical years here in Rochester. I became drawn to Family Medicine for its broad scope of practice and the unique ability it would give me to explore multiple aspects of medicine. My interests include healthcare management, sports medicine, dermatology, and lifestyle medicine.

I enjoy being outside, running, lifting, baking, and going to the lake or beach as much as possible!

Soyeon Kim, MD

Nova Southeastern University College of Allopathic Medicine

Hi everyone! I was born in Seoul, South Korea, and moved to the United States as a teenager, knowing only “sorry” and “thank you” in English. Learning a new language and navigating unfamiliar systems as a first-generation college student shaped how I think about trust, communication, and the structural barriers that many patients and families face. At the University of Rochester, I majored in microbiology, where my interest in research grew and later led me to lung cancer immunotherapy research in Philadelphia after graduation. Along the way, mentorship and community engagement deepened my love of learning and strengthened my commitment to medicine.

In medical school, some of my most meaningful experiences came from volunteering at free community health fairs and mentoring local high school students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Those experiences shaped the kind of physician I hope to be: one who guides patients and their families through different stages of life by building longitudinal relationships in primary care. Returning to Rochester feels especially meaningful because it is the community that first nurtured me as a first-generation college student, and I am grateful for the chance to come back with a deeper sense of purpose.

Georgia Kyriacou, MD

Jacobs School of Medicine at the University at Buffalo

Hi everyone! My name is Georgia and I am originally from Ohio. I attended Case Western Reserve University, where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering. During my undergraduate years, I worked for our student health service and volunteered as an EMT with our student-run ambulance service, experiences that first sparked my interest in medicine and healthcare.

After graduation, I moved to Buffalo, NY and spent a year working as a medical assistant before beginning medical school at the University at Buffalo Jacobs School of Medicine. During medical school, I helped revive Heart Smart, a student organization that partnered with local elementary and middle schools to teach students about heart health and healthy lifestyle choices. Through Heart Smart, street medicine outreach, and my work as a medical assistant, I developed a passion for primary care, preventive medicine, and improving community health.

I chose Family Medicine because of its broad scope of practice, opportunities to care for patients across all stages of life, and the meaningful long-term relationships we build within our communities. My interests include women’s health, full-spectrum reproductive care, LGBTQ+ health, and preventive medicine. Outside of medicine, I enjoy reading fiction and fantasy books, trying new recipes, yoga, and rock climbing, including bouldering and top rope climbing!

Jack McKeown, MD

University of Rochester School of Medicine

Hello everyone! I grew up in Avon, New York, a small town just south of Rochester, and attended SUNY Geneseo, where I majored in history with initial plans to work in international development or education. My path shifted after helping my mother, a hospice nurse, care for my grandmother during her decline, and volunteering at a comfort care home near campus. These experiences deepened my commitment to serving others and inspired me to pursue medicine.

I attended medical school at the University of Rochester, where the emphasis on the biopsychosocial model further solidified my passion for improving health outcomes for underserved communities through preventive, holistic, and patient-centered care, ultimately guiding my choice to pursue family medicine. I am thrilled to be attending a residency program in a community that means so much to me!

Outside of medicine, I enjoy hiking with my dog, Rusty, and spending time with my family — especially my two-year-old niece, whose lively personality brings me constant joy.

Monica Moore, MD, PhD

USF Health Morsani College of Medicine

Hi everyone! I was born in Maryland and spent much of my childhood in Sterling, Virginia before moving to Jacksonville, Florida. My interest in medicine started early, with my first job as a science educator at a children’s museum, where I discovered how much I loved connecting with people through science. I went on to attend the University of Florida in Gainesville, where I majored in Microbiology and Cell Science with minors in Classical Studies and Leadership. I then earned my MD and PhD at the USF Morsani College of Medicine, pursuing dual training because I am passionate not only about caring for patients, but also about advancing medical knowledge and helping translate research into meaningful improvements in patient care. My PhD research focused on how stress experienced during pregnancy can shape a child’s reproductive health later in life, which deepened my interest in the lasting effects of stress on health across the lifespan. During medical school, I also had the privilege of caring for patients in a student-run refugee clinic, an experience that reinforced my commitment to serving diverse and underserved communities.

I was drawn to family medicine because of its emphasis on building long-term relationships and caring for patients as whole people, recognizing that our physical, mental, and social health are all deeply interconnected. My clinical interests include women’s health, maternal and child health, mental health, addiction medicine, and lifestyle and obesity medicine. I am especially passionate about caring for patients with a history of trauma and chronic or toxic stress, and I strive to approach each patient with empathy and a holistic perspective.

Outside of medicine, I enjoy spending time at home with my husband, dog, and cat, usually watching sitcoms together. I also love writing and playing music, reading novels, and playing video games. On weekends in the fall, you can often find me watching NFL football trying to beat my friends and family in our fantasy league.

Jet Murphy, DO

Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hello everyone! I’m originally from Roswell, New Mexico, a small town in the desert Southwest. I earned my undergraduate degree in Biochemistry at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque, and then moved east to Erie, Pennsylvania, where I attended medical school at the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Growing up in a close-knit community like Roswell, I witnessed firsthand the meaningful impact a Family Medicine physician can have on patients’ lives. That experience inspired my commitment to training in a program that emphasizes comprehensive, full-spectrum care. I also have a strong interest in sports medicine and osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT).

Outside of medicine, I enjoy lifting weights, downhill skiing, reading science fiction, binging Netflix shows, and hiking with my fiancé.

Abigail Norwillo, MD

Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine

Hello! I grew up in Duryea, PA where my love for my community ultimately guided me towards a career in medicine. While majoring in Biology at the University of Pennsylvania, I proudly competed on their track and field team as a pole vaulter. Through my experiences supporting the West Philadelphia community, I saw firsthand how social factors influence the health of my neighbors. With a newfound commitment to urban underserved medicine and holistic community health, I earned my Doctor of Medicine from Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine in Scranton, PA.

I love family medicine for its breadth and depth. I get the privilege to serve patients of all ages and identities, manage pathologies of every organ system, and address broader social factors that shape health outcomes for individuals and populations. I strongly believe that much of healthcare happens beyond the walls of the clinic, and I look forward to contributing to Rochester’s vibrant community within and beyond traditional care settings.

Outside of medicine, I enjoy trying new Oreo flavors with my family, visiting museums, and staying active with volleyball, pickleball, gymnastics, running, and pole vaulting (yes, still!).

Austin Penetrante, MD

Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University

I grew up in the suburbs outside of Philadelphia, PA, but I’ve always had strong family ties to Western New York. I attended Temple University, where I majored in Neuroscience and minored in Psychology.

After graduating, I worked as a critical care technician at a community hospital in South Philadelphia throughout the Covid‑19 pandemic. In medical school, I deepened my interest in primary care by volunteering at a free health clinic serving Philadelphia’s Chinatown community. I’m passionate about community health, palliative care, and building meaningful relationships with patients, which is why I’m so excited to continue my medical career at URMC’s Family Medicine program!

I hope to develop clinical expertise in addiction medicine, psychosocial medicine, and palliative care. Outside of medicine, I enjoy biking, trying new recipes, hunting for vinyl records, and spending time with friends and family.

Mary Catherine Stovall, MD

Tulane University School of Medicine

Hey there! I was born in Fanwood, New Jersey (NJ rocks! Don’t listen to the haters). I moved to New Orleans to attend Tulane University for undergrad where I studied neuroscience and competed on the cross country and track team. After undergrad, I moved to Boston to work as a Clinical Research Coordinator at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. In this role I worked very closely with patients with ME/CFS and absolutely loved getting to know each of them over the course of the year. This was the first time I had the honor of really gaining a patient’s trust, which helped me realize my love for long-term patient relationships.

I moved back to the Big Easy to attend Tulane University School of Medicine. I always thought that I would do an IM subspecialty or neurology, but as medical school went on, none of these felt quite right. I was very involved in Tulane’s student run clinics as a volunteer and as a leader, where I really enjoyed patient education and preventative care. In the winter of M3, I had the privilege of spending my family medicine rotation in Nome, Alaska where I got exposure to full scope family medicine. I spent a week in the White Mountain village where I got to do home visits and witness the special relationship between my attending and these patients. I switched to family medicine late in my third year and never looked back.

Although my love for Mardi Gras and southern oak trees will never die, I sorely miss the seasons (especially autumn) and am psyched to be moving back up north! I want to practice broad scope family medicine and was really impressed by the robust family medicine residency at Rochester during my interview.