Class of 2026
Michael Buxbaum – Chief
Hometown: North Wales, PA
Undergrad: Johns Hopkins University
Medical school: Sidney Kimmel Medical College
EM Interests: EMS
About me: The more groovy of the North Wales seniors, I spend most of my free time hanging out with friends or playing tennis. Passionate Philly sports fan, we are good people I swear, despite what the news says. Avid hiker, always trying to find national parks and unique trails. Find me watching Seinfeld or obscure movies when I have some time to relax.
Ravi Pandya – Chief
Hometown: Philadelphia
Undergrad: The Pennsylvania State University
Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM Interests: Trauma, EMS
About me: Born and raised in Northeast Philly. When I’m not bleeding green for the Eagles, I’m probably fanboying over Joel Embiid and the Sixers (Trust the Process – IYKYK). I’ll spend hours talking about coffee, bourbon, and how Taco Bell is the greatest fast-food chain in existence.
Aditi Suresh – Chief
Hometown: West Chester, PA
Undergrad: Drexel University
Medical School: Drexel University College of Medicine
EM Interests: Ultrasound, Social EM
About Me: I have an umbilical cord attached to Philly, so I know all the hot spots for brunch and Thai food. As a past a cappella nerd, I love to sing and beatbox! My most controversial opinions include hating coffee, energy drinks, and ER turkey sandwiches.
Amanda Ammentorp
Hometown: Plymouth, MN
Undergrad: College of Saint Benedict/Saint John’s University
Medical School: Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM Interests: health disparities, operational/tactical medicine, education/mentoring
About Me: Active duty Air Force; I have a twin sister and a dog named Archie who just turned 2! I love skiing/snowboarding and scuba diving
Alina Broton
Hometown: San Diego
Undergrad: California Baptist University
Medical School: West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine
EM interest: EMS, Critical care, Trauma
About me: I was born and raised in San Diego now adjusted to the Philly life, aka potholes and lots of honking. I am a sushi lover, a firm believer that all dogs are cute, and will never turn down a happy hour invite. During the summer you can find me at the beach and during the winter on my snowboard. I will always believe that the west coast is the best coast.
Matthew Chadwick
Hometown: North Wales, PA
Undergrad: University of Michigan
Medical School: Sidney Kimmel Medical College
EM Interests: Ultrasound, Medical Education
About Me: Grew up right outside Philadelphia, so of course, a huge sports fan, especially when it comes to the Eagles. Go Birds! If I’m not working, I’m probably watching a scary movie, reading a book, heading to happy hour with friends, or relaxing down the shore with family! Some people like to say I look like Jordan Speith, but I definitely don’t golf like him!
Devin George
Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
Undergrad: Pasadena Community College & Cal State Northridge
Medical school: Temple Lewis Katz School of Medicine
EM Interests: Social emergency medicine, critical care, austere medicine
About me: California blended and along a narrow way. I was a paramedic in various places. I majored in philosophy. My wife and I emigrated from LA to Philly for med school. Our journey gained us three beautiful children, friends and a resilient community where I get to learn medicine. I also love tenkara fly fishing, camping, cycling, rock climbing, music, telescoping the planets and reading.
Hilary Gray
Hometown: Bala Cynwyd, PA
Undergrad: Hamilton College
Medical School: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM Interests: Education, Wellness, Advocacy
About Me: Lover of pups, baking, thrifting, sour beers, dark comedies, and green space. Played collegiate squash, then completed a post-bacc at Cornell University, and even briefly worked as a PCA at Einstein prior to medical school.
Brandon Hamm
Hometown: Maysville, KY
Undergrad: University of Kentucky
Medical School: University of Pikeville- Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM Interests: Critical Care, Ultrasound, Public Health
About Me: Kentucky native- Philadelphia transplant. When I’m not in the ED, I’m probably running, watching basketball, hiking, or enjoying a hazy IPA. Love to explore the Philly food scene.
Joseph Pavlik
Hometown: Holbrook, NY
Undergrad: Binghamton University
Medical School: New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM Interests: Ultrasound, Global Health
About me: Long Island guy loving life in Philadelphia. Former baseball player/coach, hopefully a current softball player. When I’m not in the emergency room you can find me traveling, golfing, hiking, eating, or supporting my beloved West Ham United Football Club.
Trient Spires
Hometown: Tooele, UT
Undergrad: Utah Valley University
Medical School: Rocky Vista University – Southern Utah
EM Interest: Wilderness/Austere Med, Ultrasound
About Me: Born and raised in rural Utah. Sort of a non-planned non-traditional path to medicine. I spent 9 years in the Army National Guard and decided to pursue medicine in my junior year of undergrad. A Ph.D. in chemistry seemed less and less appealing when compared to helping people directly. When not on shift I am usually spending time with my wife and two beautiful children, who have graciously tagged along through this medical/Airforce journey. Most of my hobbies rely on the outdoors, including mountain biking, fishing, hiking, camping, and going to the beach. Always down for another MTB buddy.
Phylicia Thomas
Hometown: Bronx, NY
Undergrad: Spelman College
Medical School: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM Interests: Academic Medicine, Medical Education/Mentoring, Hospice and Palliative Medicine
About Me: Proud New Yorker- Bx Baby! Jamaican Blood. In my past life, I worked as a nurse before starting medical school. I enjoy scary movies and any sour candy. Love hanging out with family and friends. When not in the ED, you can find me traveling or enjoying a great meal and cocktail.
Spandana Vuyyuru
Hometown: Knoxville, TN
Undergrad: University of Tennessee
Medical School: University of Tennessee Health Science Center
EM Interests: Medical Education, Social Emergency Medicine, Wilderness Medicine
About me: Philly transplant and love living in the city! Grew up in TN near the smokies – love hiking and being out in the mountains. Some current favorite things of mine – hanging with friends, trying new restaurants and bars, cooking, eating pasta, scary movies & Halloween parties, rollerskating, and watching my plants grow.
Nina Wade
Hometown: NYC
Undergrad: Princeton University
Medical School: University of Pennsylvania
EM Interests: Ultrasound, Sports Medicine, Forensics
About Me: New Yorker born and raised, which means I’m usually walking and talking very fast. Can usually be found in the nearest movie theater, hipster cocktail bar, or Asian restaurant. Always down to explore Philly, binge-watch TV, or play video games with some snacks.
Clifford (Ryan) Zinn
Hometown: Hershey, PA
Undergrad: Lehigh University
Medical School: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM Interest: Critical Care, EMS/flight medicine
About Me: Originally from central PA, born and raised. Spent most of my weekends playing tennis and ice hockey (very unorthodox sport combo – I know)! My initial interest in medicine began through my mom as a nurse, and a careers fair project I completed in 8th grade. I majored in Biology and completed a Master’s program in Biomedical Science at PCOM prior to beginning medical school. When I’m not working, you can probably find me spending time with friends and family, boating, and trying new foods, breweries or restaurants. Philadelphia is a great city, has lots to do and explore. Now, if only the sports teams could pull it together — go Birds!
Class of 2027
Pooja Dave
Hometown: Atlanta, Georgia
Undergrad: Rhodes College
Medical School: George Washington University
EM interests: critical care, medical education/mentoring
About Me: I was born and raised in Atlanta and love living in Philadelphia! I love playing board games, reading books (especially historical fiction), knitting, hiking and running. I am also a huge baseball fan, so I am looking forward to going to some Phillies games during residency!
Anabela Esteves
Hometown: Washington, DC
Undergrad: The Catholic University of America
Grad school: George Washington University
Medical school: Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM interests: Social EM, pediatric EM
Bio: Born and raised in Washington, DC (yes, truly in DC not in NOVA or MD), first generation everything, daughter of Portuguese immigrants, mother of 4 cats (Ella, Cleo, Jam, and Juice) and the neighborhood crazy cat lady, feeding the strays and providing them with shelter. I love a good happy hour and am a sucker for a rooftop view. Backstreet Boys and Harry Potter are life!
Savannah Ewing
Hometown: Denton,TX
Undergrad: Texas A&M University
Medical School: McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston
EM Interests: Critical Care, Trauma
About Me: I was a Flight Surgeon for the Air Force stationed in Alaska, and after residency, I’ll continue in the military. I love travel and adventure; anything active/outdoorsy is my thing, including hiking, horseback riding, motorcycling, and hanging with my dog, Toby.
Elaina Fragoulias – rising Chief
Hometown: Freehold, NJ
Undergrad: Villanova University
Medical school: Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine
EM interests: Ultrasound, Advocacy, Critical Care
About Me: Jersey girl with a big Greek family. NY Giants fan (controversial, I know). During my free time, you’ll find me playing with my senior cat, DJ Kitty, cooking for my loved ones, starting a new crafts project or watching early 2000s rom-coms. A lifelong lover of video games with a recently built pink PC. Current favorites include — watercolor painting, Stardew Valley, waiting for the newest Attack on Titan episode, and weight lifting.
Omoshade Idowu
Hometown: Seattle, WA
Undergrad: University of Washington- Seattle
Medical School: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine- Philadelphia
EM interests: Medical Education, Social EM, Trauma and Ultrasound
About Me: A Pacific Northwest born kid through and through. I love getting outdoors and will travel for a good hike or to go horseback riding. I love a good game night and host friends and family regularly. I love learning new things and pride myself on knowing a little bit about everything. I love cooking and baking so be prepared to help me finish some delicious meals and treats! Happy to be staying in the area to serve the Philadelphia community.
Fabian Jano – rising Chief
Hometown: Chicago, IL
Undergrad: Illinois Wesleyan University
Medical School: Saint Louis University
EM Interests: Critical Care, Ultrasound
About me: Coming from Chicago and having spent most of my time in the Midwest, I love Philly and the East Coast. Very extroverted and always looking to gather up people, huge soccer guy (¡Hala Madrid!), love to travel around the world, and eat pretty much anything.
Hari Kota
Hometown: Merced, CA
Undergrad: University of California, Santa Barbara; Postbacc Meredith College (Raleigh, NC)
Medical School: Wake Forest University School of Medicine
EM interests: trauma, social EM, EMS/flight med, medical anthropology
About Me: California born & raised, but spent some years nestled in the Sonoran Desert and in the Blue Ridge Mountains. I’m a little nontraditional- I got my undergrad degree in sociology and biological anthropology. If I’m not outside climbing things, jumping into waterfalls, or looking at cool critters, you can find me inside a museum or at home playing video games and making art.
Morgan Novakovich
Hometown: Wilkes-Barre, PA
Undergrad: Wilkes University
Medical School: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM Interests: Trauma, Critical Care, Disaster Medicine, International EM/Global Health
About Me: I grew up in Northeast PA and have been in Philly since medical school. I consider myself a foodie and love trying different restaurants, bars, and breweries, but also cooking something new or mixing up a fun cocktail! I enjoy being outdoors, whether it’s a good hike or exploring the city- basically anything with a great view! Some of my other hobbies include slowly improving my skills in running, lifting, playing the ukulele, and photography.
Becca Schaps
Hometown: Lino Lakes, MN
Undergrad: Marquette University
Medical School: Saint Louis University School of Medicine
EM Interests: Critical Care and Medical Education
About Me: Born and raised in the Midwest, and I am excited to try out the East Coast! When not working or hanging out with my two cats, you can catch me eating my way through the Philly food scene. Always down for a happy hour, a night-in watching trashy reality TV, or anything in between. Hobbies include reading, cooking, working out, thrifting, and spending way too much money at Target.
Andrew Simpson
Hometown: Kansas City + Chicago (Never lived anywhere more than 8 years)
Undergrad: Northwestern University
Med School: Hofstra SOM
EM Interests: Social EM, Public Health, Ultrasound
About Me: KC to Chicago to Brooklyn and now Philly. Bikes everywhere. Mountains > Beaches. Eating my way through 4 different cookbooks. Safe streets/Transportation Equity advocate. You may think my cat likes you, he’s just grifting you for treats.
Ali Sjaarda
Hometown: Baltimore, Maryland
Undergrad: University of Chicago
Medical School: George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences
EM Interest: Community Health, International Medicine, Women’s Health
About me: I love everything food and nature. Outside of work you can find me trying out new restaurants or recipes, exploring the outdoors, and or walking my cat on a leash.
Mark Sobnosky – rising Chief
Hometown: New Franklin, OH
Undergrad: Hiram College
Medical School: Northeast Ohio Medical University
EM Interests: International Medicine, Wilderness Medicine, Medical Education
About Me: Born and raised in Northeast Ohio but I love to call Philadelphia my home for training! I’m always exploring something or somewhere new, but have a particular fondness for coffee shops and breweries. When I am not found there, I can usually be spotted on a soccer pitch or disc golf course somewhere. I also have a love of poetry and bird watching. There are few things I won’t try at least once- including food!
Fernando Tejeda-Castro
Hometown: Coatzacoalcos, Mexico
Undergrad: The University of Texas at Austin
Medical School: University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine
EM interests: Toxicology, US, Sports Medicine
About Me: Born in Mexico, grew up in Texas. Excited to live in a city with a huge sports scene. My hobbies include weight lifting, sports, pick-up basketball, traveling & the outdoors, reading, and going to bars/breweries.
David Terry
Hometown: Tustin, CA
Undergrad: University of California, Los Angeles
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM Interests: Social EM, Palliative Care, EMS, Pain Management, Critical Care
About Me: All-around lover of life, my main hobby is playing board games and tabletop RPGs, although I enjoy video games as well. Many know me for my vast appetite and vacuous stomach. I’m a former runner but I prefer weightlifting and yoga. Lover of animals, plants, and the natural world in general; rocks, rivers, and elevation changes are my preferred scenery. I enjoy watching video series and documentaries on history, archeology/paleontology, and physics. I’m always looking to discover new places.
Class of 2028
Vincent Alberico
Hometown: San Dimas, CA
Undergrad: Cal State San Marcos
Medical School: Edward Via Virginia College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM Interests: POCUS, EMS
About Me: California transplant enjoying life in Philly. When I’m not in the ED you can find me watching my favorite sports teams, exploring the phenomenal Philadelphia food scene, walking my dogs, or hitting a gym sesh.
Spencer Bright
Hometown: Omaha, NE
Undergrad: Rockhurst University
Medical School: Saint Louis University
EM Interests: Wilderness, EMS
About Me: Grew up in the Colorado Rockies and the Midwest Plains, but I’ve been loving the East Coast and Philly’s food, public transportation, people, and the city life. When I’m not exploring the city, I’ll be out exploring nature. I love hiking, camping, bird watching, and looking at trees. If I’m inside, I’ll be cuddling with my two cats, cooking, or trying to use my English major to write something.
Jack Capra
Hometown: Fairfax, VA
Undergrad: University of Virginia
Medical school: Eastern Virginia Medical School
EM Interests: Medical Education, Advocacy
About me: DC sports fan and Philly transplant. I love to cook and explore new restaurants. Outside the hospital you can find me traveling, biking, playing soccer or exploring local music scene.
Nora Connors
Hometown: Bethesda, MD
Undergrad: Juniata College
Medical School: University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM Interests: Global Health, Ultrasound, Social EM
About Me: Past lives before med school include competing as an acrobatic gymnast and working in Guatemala, Thailand, and Burma. Outside of the hospital, you can catch me at a comedy show, eating my way through the Philly food scene, binging K-dramas, or biking along the Schuylkill River Trail.
Jessica Eisold
Hometown: Rockville, MD
Undergrad: University of Kentucky
Grad: King’s College London
Medical School: American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine
EM Interests: International EM/Global Health
About Me: I love to travel and have lived in various cities, from Honolulu to London and everywhere in between. I’m a horseback rider and avid runner. In my free time, you’ll find me at a concert, the comedy club, a thrift store, or at home with my two cats.
Drew Hill
Hometown: Rochester, Illinois
Undergrad: University of Missouri
Medical School: Chicago Medical School
EM Interests: Critical Care
About Me: I grew up in a small town in southern Illinois, but my roots are in Kansas City. My short-term goal is to eventually apply what I’ve learned in residency to a career in the US Air Force. I hope my military career allows me to serve my country, gain amazing experiences in operational medicine, and travel. My ultimate goal is to get involved in global/humanitarian. I love sports (go Chiefs), country music, and quoting movies.
Harrison Kardon
Hometown: Philadelphia, PA
Undergrad: Sarah Lawrence College
Medical School: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM Interests: Critical Care
About Me: I studied philosophy and worked as a carpenter before entering medicine. My professional interests include critical care, pain control, and austere medicine. Outside of the hospital I enjoy running, rock climbing, cooking, cocktails, kibbitzing, reading, and writing.
Katya Kniahnitskaya
Hometown: Kennewick, WA
Undergrad: Washington State University
Medical school: Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences
EM interests: EMS, disaster medicine and wilderness
About me: I have been a first responder for over 7 years as a rescue/recovery diver, Firefighter and EMT. When I’m not at work I love hiking, paddle boarding, jogging, traveling and baking. My all time favorite activity is spending time with my German Shepard who loves training as a water rescue pup!
Nomerra Koreshi
Hometown: New Castle, DE
Undergrad: University of Delaware
Medical School: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM Interests: Toxicology, Integrative Medicine, Health Equity, Addiction Medicine
About Me: Originally from Delaware, but the dream is to retire in Tucson, AZ, where I can spend my days hiking through the desert, caring for chickens, and tending to my herbal medicine garden. Until then, I will be in Philadelphia advocating for a holistic and integrative approach to medicine for my patients, rock climbing, mushroom foraging, volunteering in harm reduction, snowboarding, and scuba diving whenever I can fly out of PHL.
Arthur Lyon
Hometown: Cheyenne, WY
Undergrad: Colorado State University
Medical school: Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences
EM interests: Austere and Prehospital Emergency Medicine
About me: I enjoy spending most of my free time with my awesome wife and two kids. I love the outdoors and finding new places to hike and run regardless of the weather or time of day.
Derien Pacetti
Hometown: Louisiana; Florida; Texas
Undergrad: University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Medical School: St. George’s University School of Medicine
Benjamin Robke
Hometown: Lenexa, KS
Undergrad: Kansas State University
Medical School: Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM Interests: US, Critical Care
About Me: Midwest to the core and Kansas City Chiefs superfan. Never been to Philly before matching here but having a lot of fun. When not on shift, I like relaxing with my dog, snowboarding, working out, golfing, or finding a good happy hour.
Lily Roth
Hometown: Newtown, PA
Undergrad: University of Pittsburgh
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine-Seton Hill
EM interests: EMS, Social EM
About Me: Growing up outside of Philly I am excited to be back home close to my family and friends and of course my favorite sports teams. I have a dog named Cleo who I love exploring the outdoors with. My hidden talent is that as a kid I taught myself to make balloon animals and love making balloon animals and sculptures for my family and friends. Maybe one day I will be able to find latex free twisting balloons so I can share them with my patients as well.
Roger Tran
Hometown: Boston, MA
Undergrad: University of Florida
Medical School: Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine
Class of 2029
Nafia Ali
Hometown: Washingtonville, NY and West Palm Beach ,FL
Undergrad: University of South Florida
Medical School: Kansas City University
EM Interests: health disparities, medical education, critical care
About me: I’m a New Yorker at heart that’s been trying to make their way back to the northeast ever since I left. I love living in Philadelphia and eating all the yummy food I can find! If I’m not at home dealing with my puppy Koda, I love hiking, sunbathing, hanging out with friends/family, traveling and trying new bars/restaurants around the city. I’m very extroverted, usually talking a mile a minute and can be heard laughing from across the room. After living in 3 different regions of the country, I can confidently say east coast is the best coast!
Taylor Appelbaum
Hometown: Boca Raton, Fl
Undergrad: University of Florida
Medical school: Nova Southeastern University KPCOM
Hi I’m Taylor! I grew up in South Florida, and this is my first time in the Northeast. I first became interested in EM in high school when i became an EMT. My interests in medicine are critical care and wilderness medicine because they are basically analogous to my hobbies – nerdy complex overthinking and being outside, getting dirty. As you can guess, my interests outside of medicine are anything outdoors like hiking, backpacking, camping, biking. I also like lifting weights, cooking, traveling, and hanging with my cat Bear.
Fiona Bradshaw
Hometown: Charlottesville, VA
Undergrad: Virginia Tech
Medical School: VCOM-Carolinas
EM Interests: Global & Social EM, Public Health Advocacy
About me: I lived in Hampshire, England until I was 10, before moving to Charlottesville, Virginia. I’m a huge and often-heartbroken Arsenal fan. Former EMT, ED tech, and amateur left-midfielder. I enjoy casual Premier League mornings, hiking, traveling, and hanging out with animals at my parent’s water buffalo farm. Feel free to reach out if you would like to play some politely over-competitive pickleball.
Briana Calderon
Hometown: Austin, TX
Undergrad: Whitworth University
Medical School: MSU College of Human Medicine
Sahar Darian
Hometown: NorCal, California
Undergrad: University of California Irvine
Medical School: Anne Burnett SOM at Texas Christian University
EM Interests: Ultrasound, EMS, Social EM
About Me: I grew up in California but was born in New York, so moving to Philly has been an exciting full-circle moment to reconnect with my inner East Coaster. I’m the oldest of three sisters (with two younger sisters who are undeniably cooler than me). I love cats, good coffee, and the ocean, and I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to grow, learn, and serve my community as an emergency medicine doc!
Timothy Gardner
Hometown: Orem, UT
Undergrad: Brigham Young University/Utah Valley University
Medical School: Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences
EM Interests: Global Health/Humanitarian Medicine, Wilderness medicine, Sports/Event Medicine, Military Medicine
About me: Desert and mountain boy, raised in the Utah wilderness—from mountain peaks and lakes to red rocks and slot canyons. I have my wife and three young daughters with whom I spend much quality time playing at home or heading to the shore whenever I’m not at the hospital.
In scattered, precious moments, I catch up on Formula 1 and the Denver Broncos. I am a blossoming home chef and a big fan of television and movies, though I’m devastatingly behind the times, with most of my exposure coming from YouTube video essays or IMDb summaries. I am currently dabbling in guitar and refreshing my piano skills, though there is never enough meaningful time for proficiency in any of the above interests.
Laurence Graziano
Hometown: Rhinebeck, NY
Undergrad: Marywood University
Medical School: NYITCOM
EM Interests: Resuscitation, PEM, Ultrasound
I love dogs, as evidenced by my photo. I love soccer, go Arsenal. I also love the Philly food scene with some of my favorites being Osteria and Kirin House. Lastly I enjoy riding my bike though I always wear my helmet!
Sohini Lahiri
Hometown: Tampa, FL
Undergrad: Florida Atlantic University
Medical School: Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine at Florida Atlantic University
EM Interests: Medical Education, Toxicology, Administration
About me: APPROACH SLOWLY, FRIENDLY IF FED.. this warm-blooded Florida native is loving Philly but unsure of the snow. I worked as a teacher prior to med school and am a kid at heart. I love gardening, boating, group fitness classes, and traveling & drinking beer with my friends.
Edward Oser
Hometown: Verona, NJ
Undergrad: Marist University
Medical school: NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM Interests: prehospital emergency medicine, tactical medicine, crit care
About Me: Born and raised in the great state of New Jersey, I am a current U.S. Air Force resident with a strong interest in applying the training I receive at Einstein to forward-deployed settings, particularly in trauma care and resuscitation. Outside of work, I spend my summers at the Jersey Shore and my winter vacations in the Colorado Rockies. When I’m not in scrubs, you’ll usually find me trying out new restaurants and can catch my rating on Beli!
Vineeth Romiyo
Hometown: Sewell, NJ; Philadelphia, PA
Undergrad: Villanova University
Medical School: Cooper Medical School of Rowan University
Kaitlyn Sbarro
Hometown: Yardley, PA; Philadelphia, PA
Undergrad: Temple University
Medical School: Kansas City University College of Osteopathic Medicine
David Varon
Hometown: Miami, FL; New York, NY; Ann Arbor, MI
Undergrad: The Cooper Union
Medical School: University of Michigan Medical School
I took a scenic route to emergency medicine. Born in Bogotá, Colombia and raised in Miami, I studied architecture before teaching high school math with Teach For America and conducting clinical and basic science research in Boston. Medical school at the University of Michigan and a Department of Defense research fellowship focused on austere wound healing confirmed that emergency medicine is the synthesis of my interests. Outside the hospital, I enjoy hiking, skiing, carpentry, art, karaoke, and mixology. My academic interests include medical education, simulation, and ultrasound.
Stacey Wong
Hometown: New York City, NY
Undergrad: Cornell University
Medical School: Stony Brook University Renaissance School of Medicine
EM interests: Medical education
About me: Lover of cozy afternoons and small adventures—equally happy baking something sweet, getting lost in a good book, or building LEGO creations with a cup of tea nearby. Big fan of hiking, discovering new places, and eating out whenever there’s a chance to try something delicious!
Class of 2030
Jessica Baxter
Hometown: DeWitt, MI
Undergrad: Michigan State University
Medical School: Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM interests: Critical care, social EM, and street medicine
About me: Born, raised, and never lived outside the Greater Lansing Michigan area and am feeling so excited to move to Philly! Love an old lady hobby including growing pickles, puzzles, and watercolor painting -bad at all of them! Can’t wait to try to Philly food and cocktail scene and spend my fav holiday, fall, in the city. Ask me anything about trashy reality TV including but not limited to all versions of 90-day Fiancé, Unexpected, and SLOMW.
Nathan Coleman
Hometown: Greeley, Colorado
Undergrad: Brigham Young University
Medical School: Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM interest: Wilderness Medicine, International Medicine, EMS
About me: I was grew up in Alaska, Colorado, and Utah. I’ve grown to love outdoor activities including skiing, backpacking, climbing, and SCUBA diving. I’m excited to explore the food scene and get to know Philadelphia.
Laura Dallara
Hometown: Broomall, Pennsylvania
Undergrad: University of Pennsylvania
Medical School: Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University
EM interests: Peds EM, medical education, ultrasound
About Me: I grew up a little outside of Philly and have stayed in the area for both college and medical school. I am absolutely thrilled to continue my training here! In my free time I enjoy experimenting with gluten-free recipes, eating out at restaurants, yoga, golfing, Phillies games, and going to the beach!
Mackenzie Davis
Hometown: New Canaan, CT
Undergrad: University of Colorado Boulder
Medical School: University of Colorado
EM Interests: EMS, Rural Medicine, Austere Medicine
About Me: Born and raised in Connecticut but spent the last decade living in Colorado and Wyoming – I’m excited to be back in the land of good delis and fresh seafood! I majored in English literature in undergrad, and my dog Gracie is my main personality trait. Outside of work I can usually be found at the thrift store, skiing, or gardening.
Isaac Edelman-Munoz
Hometown: Chapel Hill, NC
Undergrad: NC State University
Medical School: Wake Forest University School of Medicine
EM Interests: Social EM
About Me: Always on the lookout for the next great restaurant, cup of coffee, or album. I always have my headphones on. When I’m not listening to music, I’m singing at a karaoke bar, doing yoga, or digging through thrift store bins.
John “Jack” Hayden
Hometown: McLean, VA
Undergrad: University of Rochester
Medical School: Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM Interests: ultrasound, EMS
About Me: I grew up in the DC suburbs, headed out west for med school, and now looking forward to being back on the east coast and exploring Philly! When I have a little free time I enjoy cooking and baking, plus a secret third thing (making ice cream), and I alternate between reading a lot of history and a lot of science fiction. When I have a lot of free time I like to travel to old ruins or scuba dive.
Bailey Hoffert
Hometown: Greenville, SC
Undergrad: University of South Carolina
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University- DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM Interests: Trauma, Ultrasound
About me: Born in Philadelphia, raised in Greenville, SC. Most of my free time is spent in spin classes, working on needlepoint projects, watching philly and south carolina sports (go cocks!) or hanging out with my cat Ranger (named after Ranger Suarez pre red sox trade, rip).
Gregory Johnson
Hometown: Savage, MN
Undergrad: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Medical School: Medical College of Wisconsin
EM Interests: Toxicology, Wilderness, Medical Education
About Me: Minnesota boy taking on the East Coast, so I’m excited to trade hills for mountains. I like exploring, whether that is wandering the city or finding a hike. I stay tinkering from baking bread to making murals out of 750+ little Rubik’s cubes to hand-making an engagement ring. I also rock with running and weightlifting.
Deirdre Kokasko
Hometown: Mahopac, New York
Undergrad: Siena College
Medical School: Noorda COM
EM interests: Wilderness Medicine, Medical Education, Ultrasound, International Medicine
About me: Born and raised in NY but lived in Utah for med school – super excited to be back on the East Coast for residency! In my free time I try to be outdoors and exploring as much as possible – I love hiking, bird watching, camping, trekking (just did EBC!), and snowshoeing. If I am not outside, you can probably find me at a concert, doing puzzles, or baking!
Jonathan Luciani
Medical School: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic
Medicine
About Me: I was born in Rhode Island but lived in southeast Pennsylvania since I was a teenager. If I’m not spending time with my wife searching for a new favorite restaurant or traveling you’ll find me playing guitar, soccer, or video games.
Randy Sharp
Undergrad: Utah Technical University
Medical school: Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM interests: EMS, Critical Care, Operational Medicine/Prolonged Field Care
About me: My path into physicianhood wasn’t linear, but it ultimately led me to emergency medicine. I enjoy pushing limits outside the hospital as well, whether that’s strength training, endurance work, or getting outdoors. I’m always looking for the next challenge and anything that gets me out of my comfort zone. I’m also a big sports fan and have reluctantly picked the Eagles as my second-favorite team (Go Broncos). Proud to be active duty, Air Force. SD Randy Sharp 2d. Lt. USAF OMS-IV RVUCOM-SU
Gabe Sheehan
Hometown: Los Gatos, CA
Undergrad: San Diego State University
Medical School: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
EM Interests: Trauma, Operational/Tactical Medicine, Global Health
About me: California to Albuquerque to Boston and finally Philly. Loves hiking, skiing, mountain biking, working out, mid day drinks in the sun or around a bonfire.
Einstein Emergency Medicine 