Election 2023- AMWA Medical Student Division - American Medical Women's Association

Welcome to the AMWA Medical Student Division Election 2023-2024!

Thank you for taking the time to select our next leaders! We have some wonderful candidates. Please review the applicants below and vote! If any questions please feel free to reach out to our president elect, Julia Burns, at president.elect@amwa-student.org.

VOTE

President Elect Candidates:

Ashley Rietmann

Primary Goal: Create more opportunities (volunteer, research, etc) to engage students and grow AMWA’s community

Highlighted Qualifications: My involvement with AMWA – Branch President, AWHS Grant Recipient, Opioid TF, and SGHC Researcher.

Biosketch: Ashley Rietmann (she/her) is a second year medical student at Western University of Health Sciences in Lebanon, Oregon. She received her Bachelor’s in Biology at Loyola Marymount University and is thrilled to be back in the PNW for medical school. Ashley served as the President of her school’s branch this past year, and has continuously sought out more ways to become involved with AMWA. From being an active participant of the Sex and Gender Health Collaborative to founding a community organization with the help of an AWHS grant, Ashley’s involvement with AMWA has allowed her to strengthen her passions for service, research, and advocacy. Ashley’s upbringing in Southern Oregon sparked her motivation to practice medicine, and is the reason she plans to serve a rural, under-resourced community as a physician. She hopes to become an OBGYN, with her other interests being global health, reproductive advocacy, and addiction medicine. When she’s not working on her community projects, she is either planning her next travel adventure with the lack of money she has in her bank account or snuggling with her ginger kitty.

2023 AMWA Election Video – Ashley Rietmann

(Bryn) Elise Vance

Primary Goal: My main goals are to engage our members and strengthen our inclusivity and community among branches.

Highlighted Qualifications: Past AMWA roles: Branch President, Region 6 Coordinator, AWHS Co-Chair and Grant Coordinator, etc.

Biosketch: Elise is a medical student at the University of Louisville School of Medicine. She graduated with a Master’s degree in Medical Physiology in May of 2021 from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and received her B.S. from Murray State University majoring in Biology with minors in Chemistry and Business Administration. She is very involved with the American Medical Women’s Association and serves as the Student Chair for their charitable arm the American Women’s Hospitals Service. She also serves as the Cervical Cancer Task Force Co-Chair for AMWA. Her areas of interest for the upcoming year include strengthening the impact and involvement of AMWA medical students, expanding benefits and opportunities for members to be involved locally and nationally, and to work closely with the executive leadership team to represent the medical student division.

2023 AMWA Election Video – Elise Vance

Danielle Long

Primary Goal: My primary goal is to foster an inclusive executive board that values the opinions of every member.

Highlighted Qualifications: Current president of EVMS’s AMWA chapter, board member of our Free Clinic and an OB/GYN Researcher.

Biosketch: My name is Danielle Long, and I am a current second year medical student at Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS) in Norfolk, Virginia. I received my undergraduate degree from William and Mary and then my master’s degree in biomedical sciences from EVMS. I have made it my personal mission as a medical student to serve women and advance women’s health. At EVMS, I have participated in various obstetrics research projects, including projects looking at c-section adverse outcomes and preeclampsia outcomes, as well as a current project looking at gender differences in student perspectives of surgical specialties. I also currently serving as president of my school’s AMWA chapter and as co-director of our OB/GYN interest group. I have brought my passion for advancing women’s health to the community by teaching sexual education to local middle and high school students, and volunteering extensively with my school’s human trafficking and domestic violence survivor free clinic. In my free time, I enjoy volunteering at my school’s free clinic, exercising and spending time with my fiancé and our two dogs.

2023 AMWA Election Video – Danielle Long

Emily Forester

Primary Goal: My primary goal would be to cultivate a larger sense of community among our local AMWA chapters.

Highlighted Qualifications: One of my greatest passions is mentorship, as seen with my tutoring and pre-med outreach. A love of mentorship is vital for a strong leader.

Biosketch: Emily Forester (she/her/hers) is a second-year medical student at the Rowan-Virtua College of Osteopathic Medicine. Emily first began her involvement with AMWA through the Rowan-Virtua chapter, where she became Vice President. She spearheaded their first pre-med mentoring program, which helped to match medical student mentors with pre-medical students at various colleges in Southern NJ. At the AMWA national level, she has worked with the Sex and Gender Health Collaborative on the Sex and Gender Differences Factsheet project, while also serving on the AMWA Student Division’s Award Committee. In addition to her AMWA involvement, Emily is a Rowan-Virtua ambassador, tutor, and teaching assistant, as well as a coordinator for the Rowan Community Health Center, a student-run free clinic in Lindenwold, NJ. Outside of medicine, she is an avid long distance runner. She completed her first marathon in the fall of 2022 at the Philadelphia marathon. In her free time, she also enjoys cooking, going to the beach, and knitting/crocheting.

2023 AMWA Election Video – Emily Forester

Sofia Olsson

Primary Goal: I plan to strengthen the relationship between chapters to increase national advocacy and teamwork.

Highlighted Qualifications: I am TCU AMWA vice president, organized women’s mentorship on campus, local women’s health events.

Sofia is passionate about bringing women together for their voices to be heard and encourages the participation of our fellow “man-bassador” colleagues. She believes in advocating for female colleagues both within and outside of the healthcare settings. By incorporating the intersecting foci of health, leadership, and advocacy, she advocates for women in all aspects of life, making sure voices are heard and inequities are highlighted.

2023 AMWA Election Video Olsson – Sofia Olsson

Treasurer-Elect Candidate:

YooJin Yoon

Primary Goal: Help AMWA continue to grow and thrive and to provide valuable resources and support for our members

Highlighted Qualifications: My strong background in finance working at Goldman Sachs and serving as my school’s exec treasurer

Biosketch: YooJin Yoon is a second-year medical student at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. She has a B.S. in Biology and Community Health from Tufts University and spent two years as a senior healthcare associate consultant in Boston before starting medical school. In this role, YooJin analyzed and financially modeled current medical practices, market access, competitor technologies, and payer policies for a global client base of innovative healthcare companies. Prior to this, YooJin worked at Goldman Sachs, where she developed guidelines to mitigate risk for trades in the GSAM division. In medical school, YooJin has held leadership positions, including serving as first-year class treasurer and currently serving as Medical School Council Executive Treasurer, where she manages the allocation of $60,000 to various school funds and grants and ensures compliance with school policies. She is also the president of Colorado’s AMWA chapter and an OB/GYN clinic coordinator for DAWN Clinic, a free clinic serving the diverse underserved population of Aurora. YooJin is passionate about women’s health, advocacy, and diversity and inclusion, and is excited to provide valuable resources and support to AMWA members if elected treasurer. In her free time, YooJin enjoys snowboarding, hiking, cooking, and anything art-related.

2023 AMWA Election Video – YooJin Yoon

Secretary Candidates:

Samantha Cooper

Primary Goal: Engaging with local programs, collaborating with organizations to provide mentorship and guidance.

Highlighted Qualifications: Working previously on the social media and philanthropy sub-chairs in the 2022-2023 term.

Biosketch: Samantha Cooper, (she/her/hers) is a second year- medical student at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM). She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, with a minor in Chinese and English from Allegheny College in May of 2020. She was introduced to AMWA by a close friend and became passionate in advocacy since. Throughout her first and part of her second year of medical school Samantha worked on subcommittee for Social Media as well as Outreach chairs. In addition to her academic and AMWA pursuits, Samantha is also holds positions in her school’s Anatomy Club, Pediatric Society, and Osteopathic Student Organization. She has also volunteered through a Medical Student Advocate program, which looks to support and empower patients to address social needs which affect their health, but are not direct medical care. Samantha also works at the campus gym where she helps to organize the social media platform, as well as teach fitness classes to fellow students. Outside of school, Samantha loves hiking, taking her new dog on walks, and taking cat naps with her kitten!

2023 AMWA Election Video – Samantha Cooper

Sarah Osborn

Primary Goal: Improve communication with each branch and connect the region through empowering each other.

Highlighted Qualifications: At my AMWA chapter I hold an executive position very similar. I send out monthly newsletters, run social media, and take meeting minutes.

Biosketch: I am currently starting my second year at St. George’s University. I grew up in Nebraska and attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, getting a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry. But, I moved far away for medical school to gain different cultural experiences that would make me a better physician. My goal as a future physician is to improve women’s health, but my goal as a woman is to empower others to reach their dream. At my university, I am very involved in the Women in Medicine group, which is an AMWA branch, and through that group, I have gotten to help the local community. I love being able to get others involved in women’s health. Outside of school, I love spending time with family and friends, and I enjoy being creative. To relax you can find me in the kitchen trying out a new recipe, or working on crafting a new piece of artwork. After an exam, you can find me relaxing at the beach and hosting dinner parties with my friends. They love trying my new desserts!

2023 AMWA Election Video – Sarah Osborn

Advocacy Chair Candidates:

Abigail VanGorder

Primary Goal: To focus on issues of healthcare access, as advocacy begins when people have means to be patients

Highlighted Qualifications: Experience centers on praxis: VP of Community Outreach, student-run clinic leadership, & mutual aid

Written message for AMWA Members: I want to be more engaged with medical students across the nation as we prepare to serve our communities as competent physicians. AMWA has a well-established network of advocacy initiatives that I want to connect fellow students with and explore through the lens of healthcare access, what barriers prevent people from receiving the care they need as patients, and how we as students can advocate for closing those gaps. I believe that advocacy starts with action as much as it does with analysis and planning. I served as VP of Community Outreach of the PCOM Student Government Association, where I created volunteer opportunities in surrounding neighborhoods for COVID-cautious community connection. I served as Logistics Chair and an active vaccination clinic member with PCOM HEARTS, the student-run clinic. In Philadelphia, I participated in mutual aid throughout the pandemic with Philly Survival Collective, delivering groceries to people who could not leave their homes during the pandemic due to immunocompromised status or physical accessibility. I am organized, passionate, and dedicated to the responsibilities given to me, and I would be honored to serve as an Advocacy Chair for AMWA.

Biosketch: Abigail VanGorder (she/he/they pronouns) is a third year medical student at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. She attended Miami University in Oxford, Ohio and graduated with a B.S. in Biology, co-major in Premedical Studies, and minors in Medical Sociology and Disability Studies. At PCOM, Abigail has served as VP of Community Outreach for the Student Government Association and Logistics Chair through the PCOM HEARTS student-run clinic. Throughout the pandemic, they have participated in COVID-cautious mutual aid. In the community, he has worked to register hundreds of potential donors to the global peripheral blood stem cell and bone marrow donor registry through Gift of Life Marrow Registry, resulting in 4 successful transplants to patients in need and a personal donation of stem cells in 2022. Abigail’s focus in patient advocacy efforts is healthcare access and working for an equitable path removing barriers to quality care.

Antonia Vrana

Primary Goal: Expansion of educational opportunities related to stigmatized topics such as substance use disorder.

Highlighted Qualifications: I conducted 2 years of research on substance use disorder and have worked extensively with individuals experiencing homelessness.

Written message for AMWA Members: I grew up in a rural community that reinforced many gender stereotypes. As a child, this upbringing led me to believe that certain careers were out of my grasp. It is important for me to be involved in AMWA because I know my childhood experiences are not uncommon. My hope through my participation in AMWA is to advocate for equity in the treatment of women in healthcare both as professionals and patients. Currently, I serve as Vice President of the AMWA chapter at my university. Through this role, I have organized educational panels and activities. Additionally, through my role as an E-board member for Grand Rapids Street Medicine, I have logged hundreds of hours working with individuals experiencing homelessness in a healthcare capacity. This role, along with my research background, has shown me the barriers faced by vulnerable populations and the stigma in healthcare that is still associated with substance use disorder. Moreover, it has shown me how this stigma intersects with gender to disproportionately affect women patients. As advocacy chair I intend to expand educational opportunities for AMWA members on stigmatized topics such as Substance Use Disorder, STI’s, and abortion care.

Biosketch: I obtained my bachelor of science degree in neuroscience from the University of Michigan in 2019, with a minor in creative writing. After my undergraduate education, I was awarded a post-baccalaureate research fellowship from the National Institute on Drug Abuse located in Baltimore, Maryland. In this position, I conducted a pre-clinical research study on the behavioral effects of nicotine vapor exposure and investigated novel treatment options for Substance Use Disorder. I began medical school at Michigan State University College of Human Medicine (MSUCHM) in 2021. Since beginning medical school, I have been elected to leadership positions in the American Medical Women’s Association MSUCHM Chapter, Student Council, Grand Rapids Street Medicine, and the Medicine and the Fine Arts interest group. I currently volunteer weekly in a free-clinic serving individuals experiencing homelessness. My current specialty interests are Orthopedic Surgery, General Surgery, or Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Ashley Cawthon

Primary Goal: My primary goal is to enhance the participation of students within our AMWA advocacy initiatives.

Highlighted Qualifications: My background is rooted in guiding people, projects, and causes within academia and outside it.

Written message for AMWA Members: The AMWA is a pillar in the medical community providing support to individuals at all levels of training. This standing creates a unique opportunity where we can bring advocacy into the conversation and promote it both at home and across the globe. I hope to enhance the current advocacy initiatives as well as promote additional projects based on member interest. I want to avoid advocacy projects within AMWA being dismissed as another email in a busy inbox. This is prevented by catering these projects directly to the passions of our members. This can be holding quarterly or even monthly meetings to promote new and existing projects, utilizing interest surveys with project ideas prior to launch, or even advocacy newsletters, regardless, there is room for improvement in garnering more participation. I have spent years working in roles that depended on identifying individuals that were best to fulfill a mission. Whether it be a research study, pairing child mentors, or bringing new volunteers into a chronic illness children’s camp, I have gained an understanding of what methods are effective in supporting each respective goal. I can bring this understanding to AMWA and further build my own knowledge of advocacy along the way.

Biosketch: Ashley Cawthon is a second-year medical student at Rush Medical College in Chicago. She graduated from the University of Michigan in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science with Distinction in Biomolecular Science and a minor in Gender and Health. After graduating, Ashley continued working in GI research at the University of Michigan as a coordinator, working on several projects, including the redesign of the Fecal Microbiota Transplant Program. She also earned a Poster of Distinction Award during this time for her Digestive Diseases Week abstract on amoxicillin resistance in H. pylori. She has kept her involvement in the academic sphere and currently co-teaches an Innovation in Medicine elective to first-year medical students at Rush while also serving on the Committee on Curriculum and Evaluation and Student Curriculum Advisory Committee. Outside of the classroom, she volunteers with North Star Reach, a camp for children with chronic health conditions that she has been with since 2018, and works with a homeless shelter in Chicago’s Northside pairing student mentors with homeless youth to provide enrichment services. When not studying, you can find her reading a book with a cup of coffee or exploring local restaurants throughout Chicago with friends.

Ashley Rietmann

Primary Goal: Engage more students with AMWA’s initiatives and help ensure that task forces remain active

Highlighted Qualifications: My involvement with AMWA – Branch President, AWHS Grant Recipient, Opioid TF, and SGHC Researcher

Written message for AMWA Members: I hope to become a member of the Student Division because I’ve always sought out more ways to be involved with AMWA. I became a national member during my first year of medical school and have been actively involved in branch leadership, task forces, planning committees, and educational programs. My goal as a leader would be to recruit more national members and increase student involvement within task forces, fundraisers, and advocacy. I aim to create more opportunities for branch involvement at the national level, including more research, volunteering, and educational initiatives for student members. Additionally, I will ensure that current opportunities remain active rather than slowly die out. My hope with advancing the student experience is that membership will increase among this demographic, which is the future of the organization. Outside of my involvement with AMWA, I hold several leadership positions on my campus as well as a few national positions with other organizations. This past semester, I founded two community projects aimed at offering support to underserved members of my community. I believe my creative problem-solving as well as my leadership on my campus and within my community qualify me for a position within AMWA’s Student Division.

Brittney Henderson

Primary Goal: Continue to advocate and increase visibility surrounding women’s, trainee, and physician wellness.

Highlighted Qualifications: My graduate degree and leadership roles have all been geared towards being a better advocate.

Written message for AMWA Members: AMWA has been an important aspect of my journey to a physician. It has been inspiring seeing women physicians and leaders, networking with other members, and the policy changes AMWA members are able to help enact. The voices of our members are powerful and provide an important perspective on the state of medicine and how to improve equity and wellness of women in the field and I am proud to be a part of our collective voice. My goal is to continue AMWA’s expansion and advocate. I want to increase our visibility by making sure that all aspiring and current women physicians know that they have a place in AMWA. My qualifications include obtaining my graduate degree in Public Health so I can be a better advocate and decrease disparities, serving as a class representative where I promote wellness initiatives and open communication with school administration, and being a member of Stanford’s mentorship program to help illicit change and reduce stigma surrounding disability. In my elected role, I plan to raise awareness and work to improve women’s health, physician wellness, and diversity and equity in medicine.

Biosketch: Brittney Henderson is a third-year medical student at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine Georgia. She graduated with a degree in biology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Master of Public Health from the University of Alabama – Birmingham. Her experiences as a racial and gender minority made her passionate about decreasing disparities and increasing diversity and equity in medicine. She has worked in research to promote women’s and children’s health, decrease disparities, and improve health outcomes. She was employed at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia as a clinical research coordinator for 3.5 years before beginning medical school. Her work in student leadership has led her to be a tireless advocate for wellness, equity, and innovative improvements for people from all backgrounds. She became involved in AMWA as a student member during her second-year and has enjoyed being an active member ever since. She is proud to promote the values and mission of AMWA

Christa Haran

Primary Goal: To fight for and foster and environment that respects and values female physicians and women’s health.

Highlighted Qualifications: As an alt. delegate for the Medical Association of the State of Alabama – Medical Student Section. I amplify student voices and fight for justice within the medical field.

Written message for AMWA Members: AMWA is important to me because I aspire to create an environment where women are treated with equality, valued, and respected. Throughout my academic career, I have held various leadership positions as well as positions that have allowed me to be and advocate. I competed in a research case competition where my team and I created a plan to support the houseless population both through medical initiatives as well as social. This case truly sparked my interest in advocacy as it applies to healthcare. Due to this, I was chosen to be an alternative delegate for the medical student section of the Medical Association of the Sate of Alabama. Through this role can meet with leaders and assist in decision that can improve medical students lives. Currently, I am working on creating an application for women through researching cycle syncing and understanding the female body as it applies to nutrition and exercise. Women’s health and wellness are causes that continuously work to learn more about and fight for in and out of the classroom. If elected for advocacy chair, I will continue to fight for equality within the medical field as well as work on the initiatives that AMWA values.

Biosketch: I have been involved in advocacy and healthcare throughout my academic career. I competed in research case-based competition in which the topic was to identify a solution to the houseless crisis. The plan that my team and I came up with was holistic and encompassed both health care and social care to help most the population out of houseless ness. Due to this research, I further involved myself through volunteering in my community.
In addition, I am the current alternative delegate for the Medical Association of the State of Alabama – Medical Student Section. This role allows me to carry a voice in decision making throughout the state of Alabama as it applies to medical students. My role is to meet with leaders and speak on ideas that can better the life of medical students.

Jillian Fleming

Primary Goal: To make sure women’s health and advocacy for women’s health needs is being addressed in all facets of medicine.

Highlighted Qualifications: I think I am uniquely qualified because I had several years before medical school where I worked for a women’s owned small business that was specifically geared towards women’s health clinical research in multiple OB/GYN offices.

Written message for AMWA Members: I think I am uniquely qualified because I had several years before medical school where I worked for a women’s owned small business that was specifically geared towards women’s health clinical research in multiple OB/GYN offices. We fought for pt needs by filling a gap in financial burden/ lack of treatment options by offering safe, cutting edge therapeutics while fostering collaboration between researcher, patient, and physician. It was often empowering for the patients, as we always made it a point to let them know that without pts like them, medicine wouldn’t be able to advance and new meds wouldn’t ever get approved expand tx options.
I want to continue a national community that fosters support and helps women navigate their roles in medicine.

Biosketch: Jill is currently an M1 at Eastern Virginia Medical School. She has a background in women’s health, having worked for a women’s health clinical research company throughout college and for two years before medical school. She is passionate about bioethics and public health, with particular interests in reproductive and sexual justice, distributive justice, research ethics, and genetic ethics. She hopes to continue her advocacy work in women’s health, both personally and professionally, and is excited to collaborate with AMWA as part of that journey!

Lia Dopp

Primary Goal: Women physicians/student doctors are empowered & limitless in their pursuit of personal excellence

Highlighted Qualifications: Co-president/founder of a public health club and president of my sorority, Kappa Alpha Theta

Written message for AMWA Members: I strongly resonate with advocating and promoting physician wellness and women’s health. I am an advocate for supporting women in medicine, leadership, and spreading their widest influence for good. My goal for AMWA is that women in medicine will feel empowered and limitless in their pursuit of personal excellence. During my undergraduate education, I served as the president of my sorority Kappa Alpha Theta and was the co-founder and co-president of a public health student organization. I currently serve on the Honor Council at EVMS. I am highly passionate about AMWA’S advocacy initiatives including opioid addiction and HPV. I was a public health major and am passionate about public health in medicine. I was a research assistant on projects on substance use disorder, harm reduction strategies, opioid education programs, and recovery-to-work needs. I worked as a peer educator for three years in Hokie Wellness with the goal of providing harm reduction strategies to create a culture free of alcohol harm. These experiences taught me the importance of health advocacy and effectively communicating public health information. Based on my experiences and passions, I strongly believe I can effectively serve as your advocacy chair while advocating for AMWA’s advocacy initiatives.

Biosketch: Lia Dopp (she/her/hers) is a first-year medical student at Eastern Virginia Medical School in Norfolk, Virginia. She graduated from Virginia Tech where she majored in Public Health and minored in American Indian studies. She is highly passionate about women’s representation in medicine, women in leadership, reproductive rights, harm reduction strategies, and public health in medicine. Her goal for AMWA is that women in medicine will feel empowered and limitless in their pursuit of personal excellence. She participates in a community service initiative to increase health literacy and address social determinants of health in women who are experiencing high-risk pregnancies. She serves on the honor council and is a M1 student leader for the Medical Society of Virginia/American Medical Association student organization at EVMS. She is an active member of the AMWA chapter at EVMS and is eager to continue her involvement throughout the semester. Her hobbies include spending time with her lemon beagle named Clyde and trying out local restaurants for her food blog.

Lindsay Weinberg

Primary Goal: Advocate for women’s health, encourage wellness and provide opportunities for student involvement

Highlighted Qualifications: Learned the importance of mentorship and well-being for success after struggling in medical school

Written message for AMWA Members: AMWA is an organization that aligns with passions of mine including philanthropy, advocacy, equity, mental health, empowerment and mentorship. I am eager to contribute to AMWA as the advocacy chair to support the community of women that are connected and brought together through AMWA and provide the opportunity for more members to be involved in AMWA advocacy initiatives. During my term, I hope to promote nationally for preventative medicine for women including pap smears, safe sex, mammograms and prenatal care, along with abortion rights and resources for all women. I would also like to be involved regionally, helping individual medical schools with mentorship connections and encouraging the mental health/wellness of students. I am qualified for this position because I am compassionate, a great communicator and I am optimistic. Throughout my first two years of medical school, I helped organize clinics for children and families of children with autism. These clinics consisted of speaking with and further educating parents and families about autism and their own well-being while caring for children with autism. I am excited to be able to work with other members of AMWA to help establish more opportunities for members to be involved and connect with each other.

Biosketch: Lindsay Weinberg is a third-year medical school student at the University of Medicine and Health Sciences in Saint Kitts. She graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Science in Physiology. She will be rotating through the core rotations in Miami, FL during her term. In high school, Lindsay earned her Certified Nursing Assistant license and worked as a nursing aide on a memory care floor at an assisted living facility. There she first encountered the importance of advocacy, especially in an environment where the residents did not have the capacity to be medically autonomous. Throughout her first two years of medical school in Saint Kitts, she volunteered at community health clinics and the St. Kitts Spectrum Services Centre. From these experiences, she saw the overwhelmingly positive result that comes from advocating for underserved populations. In her free time she enjoys finding new recipes to cook or bake and walking on local trails, especially with friends and their dogs!

Lucia Schroeder

Primary Goal: Expand/foster strong advocacy initiatives in AMWA to include more members & expand our reach.

Highlighted Qualifications: My education (MPH), leadership work, and state healthcare advocacy experience will help me be successful at continuing our advocacy efforts & broadening our impact.

Written message for AMWA Members: Thank you for consideration of my application to the Advocacy Chair.
This past year I’ve been a devoted National AMWA Leader serving as your External Relations Chair. I’ve also been a dedicated member of my local AMWA chapter and participated in various community service and outreach projects. I want to expand my responsibilities and incorporate my passion for patient/student advocacy by becoming Advocacy Chair. I’m specifically running because I value the opportunity for med students to have an early opportunity to start advocating for patients and their communities. I would continue to foster and build upon our current advocacy initiatives that provide unique and valuable support and influence to our communities. I would like to work on expanding these projects to include women’s reproductive rights/healthcare and global advocacy projects. I’ve held a similar position working in my state’s advocacy group to broaden healthcare legislation for underserved populations in Idaho. Additionally, last year I independently held a registry event for the National Marrow Donor Program and “Be the Match” organizations at my medical school. I partnered with these national organizations to create an event that helped increase donor membership. I’m qualified for this position, demonstrated by my past leadership in AMWA and other diverse national organizations.

Biosketch: Luci is a third-year medical student at Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine in Meridian, ID. She received her MPH degree with an emphasis in Epidemiology from the University of California, Davis School of Medicine. She is passionate about women’s reproductive rights, women’s representation in medicine, providing quality healthcare to underserved populations, and preventative health. This past year, she was a devoted member of the National AMWA serving as the External Relations Chair. She greatly enjoyed working to ensure AMWA members received educational resources and promotions. She also remains very active in her local AMWA chapter. She is very active in patient advocacy and independently organized an event which brought the National Marrow Donor Program and “Be the Match” program to her medical school and local community to increase the registry’s national enrollment. She also assisted with organizing a local health fair, which provided free physical exams/basic healthcare to local underserved community members. She was selected to be part of her state advocacy group to participate in state-wide events and to assist in advocating for more inclusive healthcare legislation. Outside of medicine, she enjoys traveling, hiking, white water rafting, and snow skiing.

Sarah Norman

Primary Goal: My primary goal for AMWA if I am elected is to empower AMWA members to reach their fullest potential.

Highlighted Qualifications: While serving on AMWA’s leadership team, I founded the Women in the Spotlight initiative which is one of my proudest achievements.

Written message for AMWA Members: Being a part of my school’s AMWA chapter was one of the most enriching experiences that I have had in my adult life. Empowering fellow soon-to-be medical professionals while also highlighting women’s rights/initiatives and health has become the cornerstone of the physician I want to become in the near future. I plan on continuing to empower women and finding new ways to do so by connecting AMWA members to advocacy initiatives that they are passionate about while also learning and teaching how women in professional settings can change the scene by adding equal representation to important issues facing women’s rights and health.

Biosketch: Sarah Norman (she/her/hers) is a MD student at the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine (AUC). She graduated Summa Cum Laude from Aurora University in 2018 with a major in Biology and minor in Chemistry, where upon graduation received the Presidential Scholarship. Following undergraduate college, she worked at Biofortis Research in Addison, IL as a Research Associate for pharmaceutical and nutritional clinical studies. She served as Vice President of the AUC AMWA Chapter for one year. During her time spent serving the AMWA Chapter E-Board, Sarah worked with other board members and AMWA advisor to host “AMWA Presents: Melanin in Medicine”; a pathology lecture focused on POC, coordinated research poster presentations for AUC’s research symposium, collaborated with faculty and deans to provide free feminine hygiene products in public bathrooms on campus, and helped to fundraise and volunteer for Safe Haven, a women’s shelter in Sint Maarten. Lastly, she founded AMWA’s Women in the Spotlight, an initiative to recognize medical students for their accomplishments in both the academic and community settings. During her free time she enjoys reading, writing, and attending various events in Manhattan, NY where she lives.

Sonya Levine

Primary Goal: My goal is to promote intersectional and equitable initiatives to unite all sectors of AMWA.

Highlighted Qualifications: I was a Dance and History major; my humanities brain allows me to think creatively about medicine.

Written message for AMWA Members: My grandmother served as the first female Supreme Court Justice in North Dakota, where she worked tirelessly toward gender equity and fair opportunities for women in the workforce. With her example, the idea of creating opportunities for women in medicine, and working to bring a voice to those most underrepresented in our field, has been a driving force toward my motivation to become a physician. I have carried this thread throughout my time in higher education. In my postbac program at Columbia University, I served as the Co-President for the Social Justice Medicine Club, where I helped program events such as a panel of full-spectrum doulas and discussions about single-payer healthcare. At PCOM, as the DO Council President, I helped to liaise with the administration to advocate for changes to the curriculum. We included more holistic and demonstrative examples across race and class as well as elevated wellness initiatives and changes to grading that supported student mental health. Through PCOM AMWA, I spearheaded programming our Women’s Health Symposium as the Community Engagement Director, and helped to ensure collaboration between the local community and our student body. Advocacy remains my grounding force and central tenet on our collective path to doctoring.

Biosketch: Sonya Levine (she/her/hers) is a third-year medical student at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. A native New Yorker, Sonya graduated from Wesleyan University with degrees in Dance and History in 2017. Upon graduation, she completed a Certificate in Premedical Sciences from Columbia University in 2019. She became involved with PCOM HEARTS, the Student-Run Clinic, as a Workshop Coordinator, leading painting workshops for children at a local homeless shelter. Sonya served as the President of the DO Council (student government), where she advocated tirelessly for curricula updates and progressive conditions for students. She served as a Student Ambassador for incoming students, as well as a mentor for first-year students and the Residency Planning and Mentorship Chair on the Family Medicine Club board. At PCOM, Sonya worked as the Community Engagement Director for her campus branch of AMWA, spearheading planning of the annual Women’s Health Symposium in 2021, aiming to unite the local and campus communities. She is an aspiring family physician with interests in women’s health, sports medicine, palliative care, and abortion access.
Outside of school, Sonya enjoys reading voraciously, spending time with friends and family, and playing/eventually becoming exasperated with her six-month old mini Bernedoodle, Iroh.

Taylor Goss

Primary Goal: Expanding DEI & other advocacy while further structuring member networking & mentoring experiences

Highlighted Qualifications: My history/dedication to national AMWA, master’s degrees in public health policy & bioethics, and work experience in project/team management

Written message for AMWA Members: My involvement in AMWA began in college when I experienced the type of discrimination and microaggression that is familiar to any woman in medicine. I searched for an organization supporting women in medicine when I found AMWA and began the process of founding a premed branch at my undergrad institution and ran for national premedical leadership. I served as the national premedical President from 2018-2019 during which we expanded our national membership, spearheaded a new task force for menstrual equity, and revived our national bylaws and procedures. I have remained involved in AMWA throughout graduate school through research with the Opioid Addiction in Women task force and still maintain my connections with national AMWA physician leadership. There was no question in my mind that I would continue my work with AMWA at the medical school level and I am excited to have the opportunity to serve on national leadership once again. I hope to expand AMWA’s advocacy and mentorship work, empowering medical students to utilize their knowledge and positions of privilege to advocate for the causes most important to them. The more we continue to empower young women in medicine, the larger changes we can make.

Biosketch: Taylor Goss, MPH, MBE, is a first-year medical student at Penn State College of Medicine where she serves as the Chapter President. She holds Bachelor’s degrees in Biomedical and Health Sciences from the University of Central Florida, received her Master of Public Health in Health Policy & Management with a certificate in Comparative Effectiveness Outcomes Research from the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, and completed a Master of Bioethics from Harvard Medical School. Before medical school, Taylor worked as a Senior Associate for a patient engagement and advocacy firm advising biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies on incorporating the patient voice into drug development. She has been involved with AMWA since 2016, founding a premedical branch at her undergraduate institution and serving on Premedical National AMWA leadership as Regional Director, President-Elect, and President. Throughout graduate school, Taylor has remained involved in AMWA through research with the Opioid Addiction in Women task force. Overall, her research has included menstrual health equity, opioid addiction in women, patient perspectives on cell and gene therapy, and adolescent health behavior indicators. Taylor is passionate about mentorship and advocacy and is interested in pursuing clinical ethics consultation in her future practice.

Vismaya Kharkar

Primary Goal: To better connect local chapters and advocacy initiatives with national AMWA resources and expertise

Highlighted Qualifications: Extensive experience with community-focused advocacy for LGBTQ+ health and housing-unstable folks

Written message for AMWA Members: Hello! My name is Vismaya Kharkar, and I am a second-year student at the University of Utah School of Medicine.
At the University of Utah, AMWA has facilitated incredible conversations and mentorship between accomplished, thoughtful physicians and medical students. However, the resources, expertise, and opportunities available at the national level of AMWA have not found their way to Utah, and to many other states in the Mountain West region. I aim to remedy that by uplifting community advocacy initiatives and building connections with national AMWA leadership. I have extensive experience with community engagement leadership as both an undergraduate and medical student; I have led a restorative justice coalition for a youth shelter while at Harvard and lead the free PrEP student clinic at the University of Utah.
As an AMWA national leader, I will accomplish three primary, straightforward goals: establish a bite-size advocacy newsletter, connect individually with AMWA chapter leaders particularly in the Mountain West region, and create streamlined guides to AWMA resources and opportunities. Through being responsive, timely, and focused, I hope to expand AMWA’s presence in local institutions, both medical and premedical.
Thank you for taking the time to read and vote.

Biosketch: Vismaya Kharkar is a second-year medical student at the University of Utah. Her passions include teaching and discussing cultural humility in healthcare, furthering women’s health, community-focused advocacy and public health initiatives, and diabetes genetics. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Human Evolutionary Biology from Harvard with a secondary field study in Archaeology. In her free time, she enjoys drawing, dancing, and going on hikes with her dog.

Yvone Shametaj

Primary Goal: Advance women in all areas of the medical field and advocate for the wellbeing of women in general.

Highlighted Qualifications: Service of under-represented communities in Columbia through volunteering and fundraising.

Written message for AMWA Members: I strongly believe that women of all backgrounds deserve the opportunity to become healthcare professionals and all women deserve access to high-quality healthcare. Having lived in the South for most of my life, advocacy for women’s health and equity can be difficult. Although the South has been the subject of many negative stereotypes, my heart lies here and I have learned so much that defies these stereotypes. I have met countless people devoted to fighting to close the gaps between women and men in medicine, striking down potentially harmful legislation, and advocating for LGBTQ+ healthcare, among other causes. I will collaborate with members to participate in health care policy and take positions on a variety of issues at all levels. As a first-generation woman in medical school and daughter of immigrants, I hope to inspire premed students to continue pursuing their dream. I have had experience in leadership as an undergraduate, encouraging students to get involved in research and providing social support for pre-med students. I am a member of my school’s obstetrics and gynecology interest group and will be pursuing leadership this semester. I plan to be a voice for AMWA members in forming agendas and pushing for change.

Biosketch: Yvone Shametaj (she/her) is a first-year medical student at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Columbia in a 7-year accelerated undergraduate-to-MD program. Prior to medical school she discovered her interest in women’s health policy and conducted research in tumor necrosis factor receptors, publishing a thesis last year. She seeks to conduct research over the next year on gynecologic cancers and outcomes based on race and socioeconomic status and continue working more extensively with Columbia’s Spanish-speaking population. In her free time she enjoys traveling, reading, playing soccer, and trying out new recipes! As the first in her family to attend college and pursue medicine, she looks forward to working with women and those in underrepresented populations.

Award Chair Candidates:

Careen Biniamin

Primary Goal: Advance AMWA’s mission by contributing ideas and promoting collaboration between e-board members

Highlighted Qualifications: As Chair of the Health and Wellness Committee, I highly value collaboration and work very well with others to organize events for our class

Written message for AMWA Members: As an Egyptian, Coptic Orthodox woman, I have been a part of minority groups my whole life. Parts of my identity have made it difficult for my family to support my decision to pursue medicine growing up as it’s not “ideal for a woman.” This encouraged me to seek advice from other women physicians which, over time, sparked my interest in advocating for women in medicine. I hope to use my personal experiences to raise awareness for women in medicine and help others realize that we can fulfill our personal aspirations without sacrificing other aspects of our identity. I am running for AMWA’s Awards Chair position and I believe my experience as Chair of a committee at my school for almost 2 years has prepared me to execute the duties of this leadership position. I am able to create and lead events as well as delegate tasks when needed. I also actively listen to others’ ideas and prioritize a safe environment for members to speak their minds which increases productivity and collaboration! As Chair, I plan to ensure that members are aware of all award opportunities offered as well as how and when to apply for them. I will send out reminders as needed and assist members with any application problems to the best of my ability.

Biosketch: My name is Careen Biniamin and I am currently a second year medical student at Morehouse School of Medicine. I am interested in running for AMWA’s Awards Chair position because I believe I have the qualifications that will allow me to excel in this position. As one of the editors of our class’s newsletter “The Caduceus,” I truly enjoy reading and editing my classmates’ creative pieces! This responsibility requires attention to detail which is a quality I possess and would greatly aid me in reviewing reward applications for AMWA. Furthermore, since MD1, I have been the class’s Chair of the Health and Wellness Committee. I work along with 13 other committee members to create events that help my classmates prioritize their well-being, which is extremely important as a medical student. With that being said, I have experience leading a committee, collaborating, delegating tasks, and effectively communicating information to others. I believe my qualifications align with ones needed to ensure that this position serves its goal to AMWA members!

Dara Tolchin

Primary Goal: To help contribute to acknowledging the accomplishments of AMWA and its members as the awards chair.

Highlighted Qualifications: Prior president of a student run group, which facilitated my leadership and organizational skills.

Written message for AMWA Members: It is important for me to be involved in AMWA because I believe that the organization is a crucial voice and advocate for women in medicine. My goals and hopes for AMWA are for the continuation of the support and empowerment for women in medicine. During undergrad I held numerous executive board positions including president. I understand the need for clear communication and collaboration amongst team members. If elected as awards chair, I will be a reliable point of contact for board members. I will handle all duties and responsibilities pertaining to awards for the AMWA awards cycle. Outside of the awards cycle I can be of help wherever needed.

Biosketch: I am a third-year medical student at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. I received my Master of Science degree from Drexel University, and my Bachelor of Science in Physiology from San Francisco State University. Since attending medical school, I have been served as the cultural competency chair for a student run organization and have continued to advocate for cultural awareness within medicine. During my undergraduate studies I was president of an organization that focused on women empowerment and devoted efforts to giving back to women and children of San Francisco by working with organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club of America, and the American Cancer Society’s breast cancer benefit walk; Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. In my spare time I enjoy being outside in nature, spending time with family and friends, and traveling.

Emily Forester

Primary Goal: My primary goal would be to spread greater awareness of the various AMWA awards offered to members.

Highlighted Qualifications: As a member of the awards committee, I have a passion for increasing awareness about AMWA awards and opening up more award opportunities.

Written message for AMWA Members: As a current member of the Awards Committee, I am passionate about increasing awareness about the awards offered by AMWA, as well as opening up more opportunities for AMWA members to receive monetary awards. Through my role in reviewing award applications, I have seen many amazing award applications and learned so much about the wonderful people across all of our AWMA chapters. The individuals receiving the AMWA awards are a reflection of the amazing qualities of our AMWA members at large. I have a strong passion for finding individuals that embody the heart of these awards, as well as increasing opportunities for more of our members to learn about the awards offered by AMWA. The AMWA awards not only recognize recipients for their past achievements, but also help to provide monetary support for opportunities that these recipients may not have otherwise been able to pursue. Through these awards, we are able to foster a more inclusive and diverse community of women in healthcare, while providing added support to those who may need it. As the Awards Chair, I hope to continue these valuable award opportunities as well as support the Awards Committee in selecting the best candidates for future awards.

Sinead Campos

Primary Goal: To cultivate inclusive spaces to advance the empowerment of all women, starting with medicine

Highlighted Qualifications: Ensured protocols for 12 cancer trials were properly followed and strengthened my organizational and detail orientation skills.

Written message for AMWA Members: My passion for empowering women led me to become a volunteer at the YWCA of Chicago. Volunteering at an organization focused on empowering women in underserved areas made me interested in getting involved in a similar medical organization. As a first-year medical student, I have gotten a glimpse at the male domination that exists in medicine and I hope to work towards changing this. Discovering AMWA excited me for the opportunity to collaborate with other women in medicine. My hopes for AMWA is a stronger presence in the Chicagoland area and my goal is to increase awareness and involvement in AMWA. It is important to not only become a member of AMWA, but contribute to its success through a leadership position. As a bilingual biracial woman with extensive work and clinical research experience, I have gained strong interpersonal, organizational, and evaluation skills that will allow me to exceed your expectations as an Awards Chair. If elected as Award Chair, I will ensure each award cycle is handled with diligence and strong collaboration within the Student Division Awards Committee. I will also ensure to raise awareness to women at my school so that they too can become more involved in AMWA.

Biosketch: Sinéad Campos (she/her) is a first-year medical student at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine (UICOM). She received her BS in Psychology with a minor in Chemistry from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and her MS in Medical Physiology from Case Western Reserve University. Collective interests in psychology and empowering women led Sinéad to become a Community Advocate for the Community Advocacy Project, an evidence-based program designed to help survivors of intimate partner abuse regain control of their lives. Sinéad has worked as a mental health technician, CNA, scribe, and clinical research coordinator. Though these roles revealed enjoyment for organizing community health events and mentorship, they further revealed how little women are seen holding leadership roles. In envisioning her work as a physician, she aims to increase the percentage of women in leadership and minimize health disparities. She participates in the Urban Medicine Program at UICOM, where she advocates for public health issues and facilitates Diabetes classes to Spanish speaking patients. She was awarded the Social Engagement Scholarship for her excellence in community involvement and volunteering. In her free time she loves walking her dog (Nino), exercising, cooking, listening to jazz, and hiking.

Virali Patel

Primary Goal: Holistically selecting well-rounded award applicants to recognize their work in advancing women in medicine.

Highlighted Qualifications: As a first generation college student, I realize how important awards are to further opportunities.

Written message for AMWA Members: As a female and first generation college student, the AMWA network will help me seek female peers and innovative mentors at various points in their careers from whom I can learn and grow as I navigate my own path through medicine. In addition, I hope to also be a mentor for others on my committee, as we work together to advance and advocate for women in medicine. Overall, I hope to help further AMWA’s mission of equity for women in medicine by serving as awards chair and holistically selected well-rounded AMWA award applicants.
During college, I served on the executive board for the American Medical Student Association. Through this position, I worked with my co-chair to select a cohesive committee of eight students to help with planning and executing two research fairs, shadowing opportunities, and community service projects for our club members. If elected for AMWA awards chair, I hope to create a diverse awards committee for AMWA, so we can select well-rounded applicants for the awards that are we giving out. Having unique perspectives on the awards committee is critical to ensure that all applicants are given an equal opportunity for award selection.

Biosketch: Virali is a medical student at the Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University. She received her BS in neuroscience from the University of Pittsburgh and subsequently worked at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia as a clinical researcher for one year before matriculating to medical school. As a first generation college student, Virali is passionate about education and empowerment for young girls. She is a tutor for RISE Philadelphia, a non-profit that tutors children in the Philadelphia and South Jersey community. Aside from teaching, she is also passionate about research. She has been extensively involved in the rare disease community, working on multiple basic science and clinical research projects studying leukodystrophies, which are rare neurologic disorders of the white matter in the brain. Virali hopes to pursue a career in obstetrics and gynecology and is currently involved in a research project looking at the effects of COVID-19 vaccination in pregnancy and neonatal outcomes. Connect with Virali on Instagram @virali.in.medicine

Yesenia Stephens

Primary Goal: My goal is to provide funding opportunities for members and use a wholistic approach to select award recipients.

Highlighted Qualifications: As the President of ACOP, I created collaborations with Chick-fil-A, The American Childhood Cancer Organization, and Project Sunshine to provide funds and resources for children at the local and national level.

Written message for AMWA Members: It is important for me to be involved in AMWA because I believe representation matters. I am a first-generation college student, Latina, a wife, and a mother. In my leadership roles as a Project Coordinator, Research Coordinator II, President of the American College of Osteopathic Pediatricians chapter at PCOM South Georgia, and Vice President of the Latino Medical Student Association chapter at PCOM South Georgia I have learned organizational skills and how to work in a team. I plan to collaborate with the awards committee to use a wholistic approach to review applications for AMWA awards. My goal is to promote and provide award opportunities for AMWA members. As a recipient of many scholarships myself, I truly understand the value and the support that these funding opportunities create. Furthermore, I hope to encourage others with diverse backgrounds to pursue leadership roles and become involved with AMWA.

Biosketch: Yesenia is a rising fourth year medical student at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine South Georgia campus. She received her Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences from the Florida State University. Following graduation, she worked on research at the FSU Center on Better Health and Life focusing on stress and cardiovascular disease risk factors in mid-life and older African Americans. She also worked as a Project Coordinator on an NIH funded study focused on HPV vaccination completion in Latina/o adolescents. Yesenia received her Master of Science in Medical Sciences from the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine. Following graduation, she worked as a Research Coordinator II at Moffitt Cancer Center working on three large randomized controlled trials designed to evaluate novel tobacco cessation interventions for cervical cancer survivors, food insecure individuals, and people living with HIV. As a medical student she has served as the President of the American College of Osteopathic Pediatricians and the Vice President of the Latino Medical Student Association. Her interests include health disparities, advocacy for women in medicine and diversity in medicine. In her free time, she loves to spend time with her family, swim, and run outdoors.

Co-Conference Chair Candidates:

Michelle Shin

Primary Goal: I aim to maximize resources and minimize barriers to support the goals and pursuits of AMWA women.

Highlighted Qualifications: My experience as Panhel EVP planning recruitment, advocating for diversity initiative, and mentoring.

Written message for AMWA Members: I joined AMWA because I sought a shared space where I could have access to career support and mentorship from other women in healthcare, and my hope is to serve existing and future AMWA members as co-conference chair. If elected, my utmost goal as AMWA conference co-chair is that with every future event, I would maximize resources and minimize barriers to support the goals and pursuits of AMWA women and women in healthcare. My experience as EVP of women’s organizations during undergrad have inspired me to implement diversity initiatives and collaborate with other student organizations in planning larger, more inclusive and interdisciplinary events. Additionally, having worked in various group settings in the past, I hope to inform my role as conference co-chair with synergy and team-mindedness, working closely with the conference chair and the executive board to enrich and bolster student programming in the best interest of AWMA members. I would also love to increase student engagement in organizing as well as providing constructive feedback on student programming through routine nationwide surveying so that future events can best address AMWA members’ evolving needs. Thank you for voting, and I hope to serve you as conference co-chair!

Biosketch: My name is Michelle and I am a first year medical student at Eastern Virginia Medical School in Norfolk, Virginia. Prior to medical school, I attended Duke University where I majored in Neuroscience. As AMWA co-conference chair, I aim to maximize resources and minimize barriers to support the goals and pursuits of both AMWA women and women in healthcare. On campus, I am involved in clinical research and volunteering. Outside of school, my interests include playing soccer, discovering new music, and thrifting (go sustainability!). I am so excited to be serving AMWA for the next 2 years, and hope to see this network continue to flourish to support women in healthcare.

Vineetha Mathews

Primary Goal: To promote awareness of sex-based differences in medicine and women’s health and foster mentorship within my region.

Highlighted Qualifications: I have experience in conference-planning for AMWA, particularly in brainstorming talks, recruiting speakers, and PR.

Written message for AMWA Members: AMWA has a central goal of promoting women in STEM; from my own experiences in medicine, I realize the value of mentorship in achieving this goal, so as a member of the AMWA leadership team I plan to organize networking events providing future female health professionals with opportunities to make connections in their fields. My research interests have focused on disparities in women’s cardiovascular health and maternal-fetal health as both fields are heavily understudied. I have hopes to use my position to promote events in spreading awareness regarding disparities in women’s health and sex-based differences in medicine. In addition to the novel ideas I have for advancing the AMWA agenda, I have a demonstrated record of leadership and conference-planning experience. In addition to serving in several educational positions at TUSM and co-founding the TUSM Ultrasound Medicine Group, I served on the AMWA 2022 Conference committee where I actively planned, recruited speakers, and advertised the Region 1 Conference. From this, I gained invaluable experience and insight into the responsibilities of this position, preparing me to both build upon our current endeavors and offer exciting new opportunities for members.

Biosketch: Vineetha is a current M3 at Tufts University School of Medicine. Originally from Philadelphia, she graduated with a degree in Biochemistry from Temple University before moving to Boston. Her clinical passions include improving cardiovascular outcomes for women and maternal-fetal health. She conducts basic science research at the Mother-Infant Research Institute at TUSM where she studies pathologic mechanisms of placentation during pregnancy and has presented their results at domestic and international conferences. Studying the vascular changes that occur during pregnancy fostered her interest in women’s cardiovascular health, prompting her to get involved with the establishment of a comprehensive women’s cardiovascular center at Lahey Hospital. In addition to her medical interests, she also has a love for teaching, mentorship, and improving educational opportunities for students. Her past involvements include head tutor at a non-profit organization providing SAT tutoring and college prep to students in underserved communities. In med school Vineetha continued this passion by teaching summer pre-matriculation courses for incoming medical students and co-founding the Ultrasound Medicine Group, which advocates for the inclusion of hands-on ultrasound education into the preclinical curriculum. Outside of her educational pursuits she enjoys playing board games with friends or exploring the local food scene in Boston.

Global Health Chair Candidates:

Jane Mundadan

Primary Goal: To eradicate medical disparities in underserved communities in local and international settings.

Highlighted Qualifications: I volunteered at an orphanage for mentally disabled children ages 2-15 in rural India.

Written message for AMWA Members: I have always been an advocate for equality in healthcare since the beginning of my journey in medicine. The foundations that AMWA stands upon create opportunities that allow me as a member to address these very real concerns both at a local and global level. My passion for global concerns specifically was piqued while my time at the Anugraha School for at-risk, underprivileged, and mentally unstable children in Thodupuzha, Kerala, where I fostered fluid integration for these children into their community. During my tenure, my hopes for the AMWA members are to strengthen the foundations that are in place to ensure success for current and future members in addressing global health disparities.

Biosketch: Jane Mundadan is a second year medical student at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. She received her Bachelor’s Degree from SUNY Binghamton University in New York where she majored in Economics and Finance and minored in Biology. Her dedication to global health initiatives began during her time at the Anugraha School for underprivileged children in Thodupuzha, Kerala, where she worked closely with ostracized students with mental disabilities. This passion was reinvigorated during her time at New York Presbyterian where she conducted activities centered around community integration skills for patients with various diagnosed psychiatric conditions. There,The stark contrasts in these programs’ abilities to rehabilitate stigmatized populations both locally and globally reinforced her desire to address the healthcare disparities that plague these communities.

Mentorship Chair Candidates:

Amanda Bryson

Primary Goal: Increase awareness and presence of AMWA on our regional and local campus, specifically I’d like to see more involvement our regional physicians collaborating with local students.

Highlighted Qualifications: I have prior leadership experience as the Program Coordinator of our local chapter of American Association of Neurological Surgeons at Tulane, and most recently was elected as the medical student Regional Chair of Women in Neurosurgery Society for the Southeast.

Written message for AMWA Members: As the Mentorship Chair I would like to increase the awareness of AMWA’s resources for medical students, including the supportive and collaborative environment, facilitation of research opportunities, and leadership development. As the current Regional Chair of Women in Neurosurgery Society and the Program Coordinator at Tulane’s American Association of Neurological Surgeons chapter I have built a skill set and a network of interinstitutional physicians that will help guide me in promoting increased physician and medical student interactions and support. One of the ways in which I envision growing our Mentorship Network would be to establish a clear database of interested mentors and students where you can browse members based on research and career interests in a central location and connect directly. Another is through informal “meet and greets” in your region which can have both in person and virtual options. While not all our mentors have to women, it is important to me that the mission AMWA upholds to empower and advocate for women in medicine to ensure excellence in our care of patient populations, continues to grow and thrive and be furthered by our continued collaboration with physician members and growth of medical students through strong mentorships.

Biosketch: Amanda Watters, MS, is a current second year at Tulane University School of Medicine. Amanda attended Sewanee: The University of the South C’18 for her BS in Psychology and Neuroscience. She worked under Dr. Seth Lerner at Baylor College of Medicine prior to attending Vanderbilt University for her MS in Biomedical Science C’20. With a background in neurobehavioral research and solid tumor oncology drug development, Amanda’s clinical and surgical interests are in neurosurgery. She serves as the program coordinator for Tulane’s American Association of Neurological Surgeons chapter and the Southeast Regional Chair for Women in Neurosurgery Society. In addition, she has a vested interest in community care and addressing health disparities and has served as the director of community member recruitment for Tulane’s interdisciplinary “Social Contexts in Medicine” Cohort which aims to address and remove barriers to healthcare for vulnerable populations in the New Orleans area. She is also a student member of American Medical Women’s Association, Association of Women Surgeons, and Congress of Neurological Surgeons. In her spare time she enjoys sports, hosting friends, running, and helping out on her family farm in North Georgia.

Danielle Wood

Primary Goal: To use insights from my mentorship program to advance a program accessible to all AMWA chapters.

Highlighted Qualifications: As AMWA chapter president, I initiated a 3-tiered mentorship program to increase connections between medical classes and physicians.

Written message for AMWA Members: AMWA was critical to my transition to medical school. It provided a place for me to make friends, professionally grow, find role models, and seek advice. Being president of the UTHSCSA chapter this past year helped me grow as a leader, future doctor, and teammate. I learned what women are looking for in medical school and how to provide resources to accomplish their goals. If I was elected for mentorship chair, I would use the insights I gained from establishing mentorship programs at my school to creating a program that could be followed or adapted to AMWA chapters. Important aspects of this program would be peer and physician mentorship, and growth in mentoring. A step wise program would help women develop skills in problem solving, leadership, reflection, and professionalism. Mentorship has been a passion of mine since I can remember; I have always looked for people to learn from and have been readily available to offer advice from what I have learned. I hope to apply the skills I have gained from seeking mentors and mentees over the years, along with mentorship fundamentals learned at last year’s AMWA conference to work with the mentorship committee to create resources for AMWA.

Biosketch: Danielle Wood is currently a 22-year-old medical student at the Long School of Medicine from San Diego, CA. She has dedicated much of her time to developing her leadership skills, mentorship relationships, and academic and clinical abilities both at her undergraduate school, TCU, and at Long. She currently is serving as president of American Medical Women’s Association, Catholic Medical Student Association, and OBGYN Student Interest Group. She is also a captain Veritas Peer Advisor where her main role is to mentor incoming students on success, both personal and academic at Long. In all that Danielle does, her main goal is to advance the personal and profession development of the people around her. That is why she meets one-on-one quarterly with her nine AMWA exec members to goal set, encourages the other investigators on her post-partum depression research to apply to conference to be first author, and does her best to offer advice from her experiences. In order to do this well she often reaches out to physicians she has worked with in the past, presidents of companies, and trusted peers to gain insight on problem solving, relationships, and skill development.

Tara Thomason

Primary Goal: To increase members’ accessibility to and awareness of AMWA’s existing mentorship resources

Highlighted Qualifications: Pioneered a peer mentorship program for the Duke Med Plastic Surgery Interest Group

Written message for AMWA Members: The moment I first encountered AMWA at the activities fair during my first week of college, I fell in love with this organization and the community it provides for women in medicine. AMWA has given me countless personal and professional development opportunities, and it is important for me to be involved so that I can give back and help those after me to succeed. My hope for AMWA is that it continues to grow and reach more students and provide mentorship opportunities and resources to those who might not have them readily available. As a first-generation student, I attribute many of my achievements to the guidance I received along the way, which is what sparks my passion for mentorship. My qualifications for this position include my commitment to AMWA and my mentorship experience. I have served as a mentor both for high school students as they prepare for college and for undergraduate students throughout their medical school application journey. Additionally, I created a peer mentorship program for my school’s Plastic Surgery Interest Group. If elected as Mentorship Chair, I plan to increase members’ accessibility to and awareness of AMWA’s existing mentorship resources while also exploring new opportunities for growth.

Biosketch: Tara Thomason is a third-year medical student at the Duke University School of Medicine and a first-year MBA student at the Fuqua School of Business. She graduated from the University of Houston in 2020 with a Bachelor of Science in Honors Biomedical Sciences and minors in Chemistry, Spanish, and Medicine & Society. Tara became involved with AMWA on a national level by serving first on the Conference Planning Committee for the 103rd Annual Meeting in 2018 and then as an MWIA Conference Ambassador in 2019. Inspired by the support system AMWA provided her with, Tara also joined the Association of Women Surgeons and the Association of Women in Business. She currently holds other positions at Duke, including Co-President of the Plastic Surgery Interest Group—creating professional development opportunities for members—and Co-Coordinator for the Duke Med Ambassadors—leading tours for prospective students. Her mentorship experience involves mentoring high school and pre-medical undergraduate students as well as pioneering a peer mentorship program for a student organization. Tara is passionate about mentorship, gender equity in medicine, rural medicine, and the intersection of business and health care. She enjoys exploring the best hiking trails in North Carolina and playing with her cat Guillermo.

Philanthropy Chair Candidates:

Sabra Hanna

Primary Goal: Provide value to our members with merchandise that creates excitement to invest in AMWAs mission.

Highlighted Qualifications: I have sold over 150 pieces of apparel, generating $4,000 of income to our student chapter.

Written message for AMWA Members: In all my organizations leadership roles, philanthropy has been a core value. I have a passion for creating apparel, and in the past five years I have sold hundreds of pieces of apparel that generated income to allow reinvestment into our student organizations. These investments allowed these organizations to send students to national conferences through travel grants, provide award scholarships, and allowed opportunities for the organization to invest in itself. My goal for AMWA would be no different. This would include creating charitable events, drives, and merchandise that represent, enhance, and advance AMWA’s mission to advance women in medicine, promote advocacy, and ensure excellence in health care through policy and innovation.

Biosketch: Sabra Hanna is a second-year osteopathic medical student at the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Monroe, Louisiana. She received her Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science from the University of Louisiana at Monroe. During her time at ULM, she served in multiple leadership opportunities including as the President of the Medical Laboratory Science Society and the Secretary for the Louisiana Society for Clinical Laboratory Science Student Forum. Following graduation, she moved to Little Rock, Arkansas to begin her career at Arkansas Children’s Hospital as a clinical laboratory scientist. She served in the Ascending Professional position in the American Clinical Laboratory Science Society-Arkansas. At VCOM-Louisiana, she serves as the Vice President of the American Medical Women’s Association and the Community Service Chair for the Student National Medical Association. She is involved in research at the ULM School of Pharmacy. Her passions include national advocacy for women in medicine, student mentorship, and philanthropy. In her free time, she enjoys cooking classes, sketching, and hiking with her bernedoodle, Ollie.

Samantha Cooper

Primary Goal: Engaging with local programs, collaborating with organizations to provide mentorship and guidance.

Highlighted Qualifications: Working previously on the social media and philanthropy sub chairs in the 2022-2023 term.

Programming Chair Candidates:

Brooke Hartenstein

Primary Goal: Advance women in medicine through education, advocacy, professional development, and networking programs.

Highlighted Qualifications: Served as AMWAs National Programming Chair, co-lead the mentoring program, and student leader on the Sex and Gender Collaborative this past year.

Written message for AMWA Members: As the first woman in my family to pursue medicine, I feel extremely proud to be where I am today. With that pride comes a sense of duty to help raise the voices of other women. AMWA’s mission of advancing women in medicine, advocating for equity and ensuring healthcare excellence is as important as ever today. I’m rerunning for my current position as Programming Chair and would be incredibly grateful to continue serving on national leadership. Within this role, I would continue to support AMWA’s initiatives while developing additional educational, professional, and networking opportunities. Programming should reflect the interests, passions, and voices of AMWA members. I strive to be an openly accessible contact for all members to share ideas and to fully support and help facilitate them. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities I have had in the past few years to advance research, education, and advocacy in women’s health and gender equity. AMWA has been instrumental in these pursuits and provides unwavering support and mentorship. I value and am constantly inspired by this incredible community. It would be an honor to continue serving as Programming Chair. If elected, I will be dedicated to the position and furthering AMWA’s mission.

Biosketch: Brooke Hartenstein is a third-year medical student at the Florida State University College of Medicine. She’s incredibly passionate about women’s health and gender equity which have fueled her engagement in countless projects and leadership roles throughout medical school. Over the last three years, she has worked with AMWA locally and nationally to support advocacy, programming, and education initiatives. Noting limited women’s health education, she developed a national Chronic Disease Advocacy Series through AMWA and hosted several zoom events highlighting gender disparities in chronic conditions. Additionally, she currently serves on the leadership committee for AMWA’s Sex and Gender Health Collaborative where she co-leads a 200+ student initiative to advance and disseminate sex and gender based medical education. Brooke served as the National Programming Chair for AMWA’s Medical Student Division this past year. During this time, she was heavily involved with AMWA’s national mentoring program, helping with the monthly newsletters, and co-leading the annual recruitment and match process. Outside of AMWA, Brooke served as the Women’s Health Research Manager for the FSU/FAMU Global Health Collaborative where she led multiple projects and presented nationally on topics like global interventions to address domestic violence and initiatives to combat obstetric disparities within rural countries.

Tilicea Henry

Primary Goal: Foster growth in current programs. Implement a new program focused on cardiovascular health in women

Highlighted Qualifications: I co-founded an organization, Women of Color in STEM, for students pursuing STEM-related careers.

Written message for AMWA Members: As programming chair, I hope to expand current mentorship and community outreach programs and implement a new program. Specifically, I hope to work with other leaders to develop new ways to contribute to the academic and professional development of students within the mentorship program through engaging activities and networking opportunities. I also hope to implement a program specific to cardiovascular health and prevention in women. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among women in the US. Therefore, education and awareness of heart disease in women are crucial, and I hope to design a program that is educational, engaging, and involves community outreach. I served on the executive board for the AMWA chapter at my medical school for two years, allowing me to become more familiar with AMWA while providing the necessary leadership skills to fulfill this position. Additionally, I have experience implementing and maintaining mentorship and community outreach programs, and I hope to use my prior experience to be effective in this role. AMWA continues to contribute to my success as a future physician. As programming chair, I hope to be an active contributor to the growth of this organization.

Biosketch: Tilicea Henry is from Brooklyn, NY. She completed a BS in Biology at George Mason University, followed by a MS in Physiology at Georgetown University. She is a current third-year medical student at Penn State College of Medicine (PSCOM), and has a passion for mentorship, teaching, and research. While in undergrad, Tilicea co-founded Women of Color in STEM, an organization committed to the advancement and retention of women of color in STEM-related fields. She is passionate about inspiring the next generation and continues to actively participate in mentorship programs at PSCOM that targets undergraduate, high school, and middle school students. While in medical school, she served on the executive board for the PSCOM chapter of the American Medical Women’s Association and the Student National Medical Association. She also served as the clinic director for the PSCOM student-run free clinic. She works in the Addictive Behaviors Medicine Lab at her institution, and recently completed an NIH Translational Science Fellowship, studying tobacco addiction. Other areas of research interest include cardiovascular disease, and health and gender disparities. In her spare time, Tilicea enjoys listening to podcasts, writing, binge-watching Disney movies, and shopping.

Recruitment Chair Candidates:

Kailey Kowalski

Primary Goal: To reach out to schools without current AMWA clubs and promote its benefits to their institutions.

Highlighted Qualifications: I am the current Region 7 AMWA director, with experience in organization and understanding of the recruitment process and necessities

Written message for AMWA Members: AMWA is an organization that fosters mentorship and unity among women physicians. As women in medicine, we will face challenges that are uniquely our own but also collective as a group. There are times when we will be underappreciated and disregarded because of being a woman and it is important to be a part of a group who not only understand, but can also help each one of us overcome these issues and succeed. As recruitment chair for AMWA I hope to promote its importance to as many women and schools as possible. I promise to always be available for questions. I participated on the E-board for many school clubs and acted as the Region 7 director for AMWA this past year. I am experienced in organization and what AMWA entails. I already understand the recruitment process and what is needed for a branch to succeed nationally, therefore I would be able to assist branches accordingly.

Biosketch: Hi my name is Kailey Kowalski and I am currently a third year medical student at Kansas City University. I am originally from Albany, New York and went to undergrad at Boston College. After college I spent an extra four years living in Boston and working at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. During that time, I met my partner and got my puppy (Tonic, like a gin and tonic), because of that Boston will forever have a piece of my heart. For the last year I served as the Region 7 director for AMWA and organized the regional conference, which recently happened in December. I have participated in the E-board for numerous clubs, acted as a student ambassador and completed a few research projects since my time at KCU began. Currently I am deciding what to do with the rest of my life, most likely being Internal Medicine. I truly enjoy the academic nature of medicine, such as the reason behind disease and why certain cures work. I also favor work/life balance, because while I love medicine, I want to enjoy my hobbies outside of it, including skiing, playing soccer, hanging out with my dog and cooking.

Maureen Scott

Primary Goal: Expand AMWA’s network and grow the support system between physicians, students and residents.

Highlighted Qualifications: My experience with organization and community building at Wild West Access Fund.

Written message for AMWA Members: I joined AMWA as a first-year medical student due to my belief in uplifting other women through my experience in medicine. As a first-generation college student, there was not a clear path to medicine, nor in navigating medical school. In any field, women need resources and community building to succeed and overcome the unique obstacles we face due to gender inequality, and the difficulties of maintaining work-life balance. The positive impact of community on mental well-being is well established and encouraging wellness within healthcare providers is of utmost importance. As AMWA Recruitment Chair, I would encourage others to join the community of women in medicine who are forging a path forward and supporting one another. My school’s AMWA chapter is relatively new, so I can see firsthand the excitement of a new chapter and look forward to helping other students start the same momentum across the country.

Biosketch: Maureen Scott is a first-year medical student at the University of Nevada, Reno. Prior to medical school, she co-founded the Wild West Access Fund of Nevada, a non-profit organization that grants patients’ funding for abortion care, as well as providing practical support such as lodging or transportation. In July 2021, the organization was a mutual aid network redistributing money from small, local donors with just 2 volunteers. Maureen’s work was integral in recruiting and training volunteers, assisting with setting non-profit board values, and ultimately building what is now a registered non-profit with a board of 10 people, 50+ volunteers, and grants provided to over 700 people in 2022. Maureen plans to pursue gynecology as a specialty to continue her commitment to reproductive justice through her medical career. In addition to being involved with AMWA, Maureen has also worked to build an organ donation advocacy interest group at her school, informing her of the same process new AMWA chapters will experience. As Recruiter, she will bring her experience in community building to the AMWA E-Board and support students in creating new AMWA chapters efficiently and enthusiastically.

Monica Ethirajan

Primary Goal: My primary goal is to increase overall membership, both with new and existing chapters.

Highlighted Qualifications: I was Social Media Chair at my local chapter and served an active role in networking and promoting AMWA.

Written message for AMWA Members: I initially started out as a member at my local AMWA chapter and then went on to serve on the leadership team. Now, I am assisting with the planning for the AMWA national conference and am interested in a national leadership position, specifically Recruitment Chair. I initially did not realize how much AMWA has to offer – from scholarships to mentorship to workshops and more. If students understood the full breadth of what a membership can actually offer them, I genuinely believe that more students would feel encouraged to join. I understand that this position would be no easy task. However, I have served several leadership positions at my school, ranging from being a student member on several curriculum committees for medical education to developing and independently running research projects. I am excited to have this opportunity to run for a position where I can discuss more about AMWA with other students and exactly how the services this program provides can help us all to gather more experience in our respective toolkits as we work on figuring out the type of physician each of us wants to be.

Biosketch: Monica is a medical student at Eastern Virginia Medical School with an interest in the OB/GYN field. She graduated from the University of Virginia with degrees in both Biology and French, and then later graduated from Eastern Virginia Medical School with a degree in Public Health. It was during this time that she realized she was interested in improving women’s health, especially in developing countries. As a result, she got more involved with women’s health research, as well as with her local medical school AMWA chapter. Serving as Social Media Chair, Monica worked on posting Spotlight Interviews with fourth year medical students where they could talk about their experiences and give advice to other female medical students. Monica has also held other leadership roles at her school, serving as a student representative on several curriculum committees for medical education. When Monica is not busy with her studies, she enjoys drawing, painting, playing her guitar, and exploring the outdoors with her friends.

Shauna Wassmus

Primary Goal: My goal as recruitment chair is to increase medical student involvement in AMWA and create a community among branches.

Highlighted Qualifications: This past year I served as the AMWA region 3 student director and enjoyed working with the branches in my region.

Written message for AMWA Members: Over the past year I served as the Region 3 medical student director and found the experience rewarding to unite AMWA members from different schools at our virtual conference. I worked with the region 2 and 3 medical and premedical student directors and learned a lot from our collaborative experience. The conference itself was exciting to bring together so many speakers with an abundance of advice for and insight into our field of medicine and I would love to expand this opportunity to medical students beyond the current branches. During my medical school career, I have had the opportunity to participate in AMWA first as a branch member, then as branch president at my medical school, and most recently as regional director and each position has given me the opportunity to grow in my leadership skills and in the confidence that I am entering a career that has people who are willing to support me and cheering for my success. AMWA has become such an important part of my medial school experience, and I hope to increase that opportunity for other medical students.

Biosketch: Shauna Wassmus (she/her/hers) is a third-year medical student at Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine in Scranton, PA. She received her undergraduate degree in biology from Boston College and a masters in Biomedical Sciences from Tufts University School of Medicine. At GCSOM she served as the president of the student branch of AMWA where she was involved in organizing round table events for students to participate in candid conversations with women in medicine. Additionally, she helped coordinate girls in science workshops that encourage local middle school girls to consider a future in STEM. This past year she served as the AMWA medical student Region 3 Director where she collaborated with Region 2 to put forward a virtual conference. As a lifelong girl scout, she is passionate about the effects of positive female role models and mentors and serves as a mentor to medical and premedical students both locally in Pennsylvania and from Boston College. She was a competitive synchronized skater through college and has been able to give back to the sport of figure skating through teaching both children and adults the fundamentals and love of figure skating. In her free time she likes to spend time outside running or hiking, baking, reading, and spending time with friends and family.

Research Chair Candidates:

Aishwarya Iyer

Primary Goal: Empower a community of aspiring, future, and current physicians with a passion for research

Highlighted Qualifications: My passion for service and my team-based approach to addressing any issue, concern, or initiative

Written message for AMWA Members: Though I recently joined AMWA, it is very evident that this organization upholds its values of inclusivity and empowerment of women in medicine. My goals for AMWA are to expand this sense of community to those with a like-minded passion for research and are aspiring physician-scientists. As an MD/PhD candidate, I am driving a multidisciplinary research project using a plethora of research techniques, for which I collaborate with investigators domestically and internationally. In parallel with my physician-scientist training, I have served in numerous roles, including as an advocate for students during my tenure as university-wide student government president, an advocate of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, and a leader in integration of climate change and health topics into medical school curriculum development. My goal for AMWA is to bridge trainees of different career stages to create a network of mentorship and relationships to increase retention of women in research and research-related initiatives. Doing so, I hope for AMWA members to build and sustain collaborative research connections that would be beneficial for their personal and professional development.

Biosketch: Aishwarya Iyer (she/her) is an MD/PhD candidate at the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM). During her pre-clinical years, she was co-president of two medical student organizations, advocated for Climate Change and Health curriculum development, and volunteered as a CURES scholars program mentor to engage West Baltimore middle school students with STEM-focused after-school activities. As a PhD student, she was selected as a T32 Trainee in GI and Hepatology (NIH/NIDDK), while effectively managed campus-wide leadership positions of Secretary, President, then Student Advisor, of the University-wide Student Government Association as a student advocate. During this time, she collaborated with multiple departments and organizations to create initiatives addressing food insecurity, sustainability, and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). She served on vital search committees: (1) UMB Executive Vice President and Provost and (2) UMSOM Dean. Her commitment to student advocacy, DEI, sustainability, and service led to the humble honor of UMB Founder’s Week 2022 – Student of the Year. Aishwarya is currently pursuing her PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and intends on becoming an academic clinician-scientist interfacing biophysics and medicine to develop targeted therapeutics. In her free time, she loves to dance, train for half-marathons, and play with her dogs!

Allyson Flippo

Primary Goal: To increase the research produced by AMWA members while promoting quality research standards.

Highlighted Qualifications: My most unique research is in medical education through a student lead group at my medical school.

Written message for AMWA Members: I chose to apply for Research Chair because I am passionate about supporting women in medicine and increasing the number of women who participate in research publications and presentations across all medical specialties. of As a scientist, I have experience across research styles including wet bench, clinical, and literature reviews. I achieved honors in my medical school’s research curriculum and have mentored others interested in starting research. As a leader, I founded two AMWA branches, and currently serve as the chair for the Migraine Management Committee, which is active in multiple research pursuits in order to improve the lives of persons with migraine. I will bring all of these experiences to help AMWA foster a community for research under AMWA and help connect members to research projects that may be of interest, as well as funding opportunities. I believe that AMWA is in a unique position to increase the number of women in research and to focus on research areas that have been traditionally under investigated, including maternal health, disparities in medicine, and physician retention. I hope to make AMWA a place for members to find research mentors, engage in scientific pursuits, and discover new opportunities in research.

Biosketch: Allyson is a nontraditional student and graduate of Texas Woman’s University and current medical student at Sam Houston State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She currently serves as Chair of the Migraine Management Committee for AMWA and has served as the founder and president of both her undergraduate and medical school branches. She is passionate about mentorship, increasing women in research, and improving the visibility of women in medicine. In the past, Allyson has worked on human cytomegalovirus prior to graduating with her BS in Biology. During her gap year, she worked in clinical research on COVID-19 trials, gastroenterology, MS, and nephrology research and was inspired by the physician-researchers she worked under to pursue a career that combines her love for medicine and passion for scientific discovery. When not studying, she enjoys spending time with her husband Christopher and two year old son Justin, crocheting for charity, and promoting pathology and AMWA on social media.

Anne Timmermann

Primary Goal: My primary goal is to increase research engagement among medical students through physician panels.

Highlighted Qualifications: I believe my Master’s of Science in Clinical Research makes me an excellent candidate for this role.

Written message for AMWA Members: I would love the opportunity to serve as the AMWA Medical Student Research chair because it brings together my love of research while uplifting the voices of women in the medical field. As women in medicine there is a unique understanding of the challenges that we face in both our personal and professional paths. Like many of my peers, my journey to medical school was filled with questions from family and friends of if I really wanted to be a physician; especially if I want to have a family someday. The visibility of successful women in medicine has been invaluable in motivating me as I see mentors I can truly relate to. Therefore, I would like to host a series of research panels for AMWA medical student members as an opportunity for both education and networking. Research allows students to be competitive residency applicants and fosters a sense of community throughout projects, both of which are incredibly beneficial to our members. All in all, my three years of research experience before medical school, Master of Science in Clinical Research degree, and current involvement in various multidisciplinary research projects makes me an outstanding candidate to successfully perform in this position.

Biosketch: Anne Timmermann, MS is a second-year MD student at Rush Medical College. She graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a Bachelor of Science in 2018, double majoring in Science/Pre-Professional Studies and Spanish. Upon undergraduate graduation, she worked in the Rush University Cancer Center as a Clinical Research Coordinator focusing on hematologic malignancies while concurrently earning her Master’s of Science in Clinical Research in 2021 with a thesis on health disparities within this field. Anne has served as the National Representative of her medical school’s AMWA chapter from 2022-2023. She has been part of various research projects in both hematology and orthopedic surgery and received Rush Medical College’s Summer Research Fellowship Award in 2022. Anne volunteers her time as a peer tutor, Mini Medical School counselor for 4th and 5th grade students, and as a volunteer for bone marrow registry swabbing drives in the community. Outside of academics, Anne enjoys boxing, cooking, spending time with her nieces and nephew, exploring the Chicago restaurant scene, and supporting women’s basketball as a former manager of the 2018 Notre Dame National Championship team.

Ashley Gall

Primary Goal: To increase research involvement among AMWA members by helping students find both projects and mentors

Highlighted Qualifications: Won first place case report poster during AMWA 107th Annual Meeting Student Presentation

Written message for AMWA Members: I would like to run for the position of research chair because research is something I genuinely enjoy and I would like to inspire others to have the same passion. Many medical students look at research as a burdensome job that they must complete in order to match into a good residency. With expectations becoming higher each year, it can at times seem this way, but research can also be a very exciting aspect of medical school. Research potentially allows a student to play a part in publishing results that will one day be used to improve the lives of many patients. It is what builds the future of how medicine is practiced. I would like to create a research mentorship program for members, host a meeting in which highly established female researchers tell their stories, create an active research committee, post monthly research opportunities in the AMWA newsletter such as calls for abstracts, and survey members to find what type of research workshops they would like to have. I first became involved in research 6 years ago when I completed a project with the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. Since that time, I have been involved in 12 basic science and clinical research projects accompanied by many presentations and article publications which qualify me for this position.

Biosketch: Ashley is a third year medical student at West Virginia University School of Medicine. She received her Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering from West Virginia University. As an undergraduate student she completed several research projects including a study in AI using eye movement patterns as a possible diagnostic tool for autism, designing an autonomous feeding device for quadriplegic patients, and characterizing airborne particle exposure from nanoclay-enabled composites. Between her first and second year of medical school, she spent the summer completing a virtual research fellowship with the University of California San Francisco through the orthopaedic surgery department. During the AMWA 107th Annual Meeting she won first place case report poster presentation. Ashley has also served as vice president of her university’s AMWA chapter. She has a passion for increasing female representation in orthopaedic research studies and is currently working on a project concerning pelvic fractures and pregnancy.

Brianae Garcia

Primary Goal: Increase the representation of women in medicine and medical research.

Highlighted Qualifications: I have is communication skills which will be demonstrated when having to reach out to women involved in research to speak at meetings or during workshops.

Written message for AMWA Members: It is important to me to be involved in AMWA so I can support and advocate for women in medicine, network with various physicians around the country, and collaborate with women in the medical field. My goal is to reach out to as many women physicians to further expand the medical field with more female representation as well as provide the resources to publish research projects. As a research chair applicant, I would plan to organize and promote research events and opportunities (workshops, seminars, networking events) for the members of AMWA by continuing to highlight the work of women in the medical field.

Biosketch: My name is Brianae Garcia, and I’m a 3rd-year medical student at St. George’s University. I was born and raised in Bakersfield, CA. I obtained my BA in Behavioral Neuroscience and minor in Business Administration at the University of San Diego. I aspire to be an anesthesiologist either specializing in critical care or pain management. My goal is to increase the representation of women in medicine by advocating for initiatives that further support the advancement of women in the medical field.

Corrine Seehusen

Primary Goal: To connect passionate, aspiring future physician scientists with current innovators in the field.

Highlighted Qualifications: My experience working in multiple labs where I learned from professionals of all levels of training.

Written message for AMWA Members: As I progressed through my early education I struggled identifying strong mentors in the medical field who could provide insight into their successes and to best achieve my goals. Becoming involved with AMWA was a crucial way for me to find mentors and grow as a medical student. Through the identification of strong mentors I have realized how critical it is for learners to not only reach out for help, but for those capable of mentoring to reach out to those who may need it. My goal for the Student Research Chair position is to connect passionate, aspiring physician researchers with current innovators in the field. Prior to medical school, I worked in a variety of lab settings learning from professionals of all levels of training. Through my role as a research coordinator I was able to mentor many students coming through the lab and help them with their projects. Overall, many students expressed the desire to participate in research, but struggled knowing where to start. Through the already existing AMWA network, we can connect students of all levels with mentors nationally to progress scientific innovation while also learning how to be lifelong leaders and learners.

Biosketch: Corrine Seehusen is a second-year medical student at the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine (UNECOM). She graduated from the College of Saint Benedict in Minnesota in 2019 with a Bachelor of Arts in Biochemistry. During her time at St. Ben’s, Corrine was a teammate on the varsity soccer team, participated in an REU at WPI in Massachusetts, worked as a Nemours Summer Undergraduate Research Scholar in Delaware, and spent five months volunteering at a community health center in South Africa. After college, Corrine worked as a Clinical Research Coordinator at Children’s Hospital Colorado where she helped to explore many topics from concussion recovery to contributing factors for Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) in adolescents. Since starting medical school, Corrine has continued her research involvement and has been an active member in extracurriculars at UNECOM, including acting as the local chapter’s AMWA Regional Delegate. In her free time, Corrine enjoys playing intramural sports on campus, hiking, and exploring the beaches of New England.

Gabrielle Kennelley

Primary Goal: Foster a community of research by building a platform connecting student members to research mentors

Highlighted Qualifications: Research interest group co-leader: connected students to research faculty; assessed quality of abstracts/posters for regional conferences

Written message for AMWA Members: Research and mentorship are two of my passions. While I have been lucky to have several “He for She” mentors for guidance along the way, I also want to be more involved with other women in medicine. I joined AMWA to connect with women who wish to help each other flourish academically, professionally, and personally. My goals/hopes for AMWA is that our members continue to build platforms for each other and future generations, especially in medicine. I want to use our network to connect student members to mentors who can offer advice and opportunities for lifelong careers. I have a strong research background and drive to foster students’ interests in research. If elected Research Chair, I would create a virtual “speed dating” event for students to meet investigators, learn about their work and open projects, and reconnect outside of the event to build research/mentorship relationships that can be maintained throughout medical school (and beyond). I would also like to build a document with (O)MS2 – (O)MS4 students listing research opportunities members participated in during the summer between their first and second year of medical school to help current (O)MS-1 and pre-medical students consider where they could potentially spend that time.

Biosketch: Gabrielle Kennelley is a MS3 at Central Michigan University (CMU). She has a BS in biology and a MS in pathology. Prior to medical school, she worked in immunology research at the Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute and in hepatocellular carcinoma research at Case Comprehensive Cancer Center. During her first year of medical school, she was elected co-leader of the Research in Medicine and Oncology student interest groups at CMU. Gabrielle is planning to pursue a residency in internal medicine and fellowship in hematology and oncology. She is currently researching with Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center and CMU. Her current projects include the evaluation of urothelial proliferation and carcinogenesis in murine models, the use of sulforaphane as an adjuvant therapy for bladder cancer, medications associated with phototoxicity, the impacts of COVID-19 vaccination clinics on medical students’ well-being, the impacts of interprofessional education on health professions students, and bone stress injuries in the military. Gabrielle also enjoys volunteering with her local cancer services center, providing medical care at marathons, triathlons, and local high school sporting events, and mentoring other women in science and medicine. She is also an avid distance runner and lover of the outdoors.

Maeve Alterio

Primary Goal: My goal will be to help connect people for research to advance care of all patients.

Highlighted Qualifications: I have been very lucky to have significant research experience. I also work at my University to connect students to research projects.

Written message for AMWA Members: With the shift in residency applications due to Step 1 going pass/fail, there has been an increased emphasis placed on research. However, many students have limited access or do not know where to turn for research opportunities. I believe that research can be a very positive experience with the right team. My goal will be to help connect people for research to advance care of all patients.

Biosketch: I am currently a third-year medical student. I intend to pursue a residency in OB/GYN. My research interests are focused on surgical outcomes and patient experiences as they have direct implications in patient care. I am particularly interested in barriers to access to care. I currently do research in healthcare access, surgical oncology, kidney transplantation, endocrine surgery, and surgical education.

Minali Prasad

Primary Goal: Cultivate collaborative research that promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion among AMWA members

Highlighted Qualifications: As a published researcher and mentor, I have extensive experience in scientific research and career development

Written message for AMWA Members: As a first-generation medical student whose parents immigrated from a country with gender discrimination, I am eager to contribute to AMWA’s mission of promoting the professional advancement of women in medicine as the Research Chair. After crafting dozens of my own research proposals, I am excited to evaluate cutting-edge submissions written by AMWA members and forward proposals that align with our mission. My experience designing safe and ethical patient surveys allows me to impartially analyze similar projects involving student surveys. In medical school, I lead studies from conceptualization to publication while mentoring junior students in completing their own projects. I will apply my understanding of the possibilities of student participation while critically analyzing submission potential to progress AMWA’s values of diversity, collaboration, and inclusion. My plans to foster a research community are two-fold. For new researchers, I will organize monthly expert speaker sessions on topics including finding mentors and choosing a project. These events will conclude with question-and-answer sessions and be followed by a bi-monthly newsletter disseminating research opportunities. For students with research experience, I will host small-group project brainstorming sessions. After conversing in breakout rooms organized by specialty, students will leave with a team, plan, and project to pursue.

Biosketch: Minali Prasad is a third-year medical student at Boston University School of Medicine. She graduated with a BA in Medical Science from Boston University, and is a co-founder of several student organizations, including the Boston Medical Center Student Sight Savers and BUSM Trauma-Informed Care Task Force. She serves on the Association of Women Surgeons Publications Committee and the American Medical Association Community Service Committee. Her research interests include elucidating the pathophysiology of various retinal diseases and examining demographic disparities in medicine. She is particularly focused on the role of eye fluid biomarkers in retinal degenerative diseases and is directing a study to examine risk factors for dementia development among patients with retinal vascular diseases. Additionally, Minali investigates both racial and ethnic inequities in clinical trial recruitment, and limitations in access to vision care among unhoused populations. Minali is also a member of the American Medical Women’s Association, American Academy of Ophthalmology, and Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology. Among her numerous honors, Minali was a recipient of the BUSM Medical Student Summer Research Fellowship, which is awarded to rising second-year medical students with exceptional research proposals. She also earned the IAMSE Curriculum Innovation Grant and BU Student Research Award.

Sarah Peterson

Primary Goal: To provide opportunities to explore and advance medical science through women-powered research!

Highlighted Qualifications: My ability to find the silver lining in a situation while utilizing leadership skills to create a successful, productive & inclusive culture

Written message for AMWA Members: AMWA’s more than a group of women, it’s a community and a safe space. For the first time in history, we’ve closed the gender gap in medical school, but we still have work to do! Now more than ever, we need to empower women and foster an environment of women supporting women! As the first in my family to enter medicine, I wouldn’t be here without the support and guidance of mentors. Moving forward, I’d like to help fulfill AMWA’s mission of promoting advocacy initiatives, expanding opportunities for student involvement, and highlight leadership opportunities that foster growth and confidence in women entering healthcare to empower them to be the best providers possible! My passion for women’s advocacy coupled with my optimism and experience leading multiple teams will allow me to add to the positive culture AMWA has created. My school didn’t have robust research opportunities, thus I had to find them on my own, which was daunting as a new medical student. If elected, I would like to breakdown these barriers, by creating an interprofessional, collaborative research community accessible to all. By bringing together AMWA members from across the country, we can explore emerging science and make lasting connections together!

Biosketch: Sarah Peterson is a 3rd year medical student at Washington State University. She received a B.S. in Biology from Gonzaga University, completed her M.Sc. in Applied Anatomy from Case Western Reserve University and obtained her Masters in Public Health. She is passionate about minimizing barriers and advocating for women’s health. She currently serves as co-president of the AMWA-WSU Chapter, helping develop and launch her school’s first women’s mentoring program. She also served on Medical Student Council where she has advocated for gender equity within the curriculum and re-evaluation of the current pregnancy policy. She promoted clinics for low-income populations and fought for legislative efforts supporting equal access healthcare for women and children. She currently serves on two grants, one breaking stigma surrounding opioid use disorder and another promoting student involvement in advocacy efforts. She’s also currently president of several other interest groups and founded WSU’s OB/Gyn student interest group through The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. She is working on research in women’s health, neuroscience, and oncology. She hopes to utilize her MPH by participating in global medicine. As the first in her family to pursue medicine, she is excited to join and learn from a community of women.

Vivian Vo

Primary Goal: Encourage students to pursue research that advances women’s health care and equity.

Highlighted Qualifications: Officer for ATSU-SOMA Student Government Association Research Committee & Student Representative for ATSU-SOMA Faculty Research Committee

Written message for AMWA Members: Through AMWA, I will continue my lifelong commitment to empowering girls and women. For the past 10 years, I have been a Regional Delegate for the Girl Scouts of Northern California (GS NorCal), advocating for increased STEM leadership opportunities and inclusion efforts for girls in semi-rural communities. I have also served as National Delegate for the GS NorCal and Committee Member of Google’s Made with Code and GS NorCal Girl STEM Committee. Therefore, my goal within AMWA is to continue to uplift women, especially in medicine. I am qualified to serve as the AMWA Medical Student Research Chair because I have extensive experience in promoting medical student engagement in research endeavors. As an officer for the ATSU-SOMA Student Government Association’s Research Committee, I highlight available research opportunities and raise student interest in research. Additionally, as the Student Representative on the ATSU-SOMA Faculty Research Committee, I facilitate interdisciplinary conversations between students and faculty and foster transparency. If elected, I will support AMWA in meaningful research endeavors by assessing the logistics and value of various projects and by facilitating learning opportunities through networking, panels, and workshops.

Biosketch: Vivian Vo is a second year medical student at A.T. Still University School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona (ATSU-SOMA). A Bay Area native, Vivian graduated from Santa Clara University with a B.S. in Biology. She has extensive leadership experience in promoting medical student engagement in research endeavors. As an officer for the ATSU-SOMA Student Government Association’s Research Committee, she highlights available research opportunities, raises student interest, and collaborates with faculty. Additionally, as the Student Representative on the ATSU-SOMA Faculty Research Committee, Vivian advocates for students and facilitates interdisciplinary conversations related to research between students and faculty. She has been a researcher both in undergraduate and medical school and hopes to enable more women to become involved in research. Vivian has a lifelong passion for empowering girls and women. For the past decade, she has been a Regional Delegate for the Girl Scouts of Northern California (GS NorCal). Vivian has also served as National Delegate for GS NorCal and as Committee Member of Google’s Made with Code and GS NorCal Girl STEM Committee. Through these experiences, she has advocated for increased STEM leadership opportunities for girls in semi-rural communities. She looks forward to supporting women in medicine.

Social Media Chair Candidates:

Afeerah Ahmad

Primary Goal: To enhance AMWA’s mission via mentorship and collaboration amongst medical and premedical branches.

Highlighted Qualifications: Commitment to volunteerism through the AHEC scholars program and COVID-19 vaccination clinic.

Written message for AMWA Members: My experience with AMWA began eight years ago where I served as Drexel University AMWA’s Treasurer, Vice President, and President. A distinct contribution of my presidency was the organization of a conference joining medical professionals and undergraduate students for mentorship in medical leadership and scholarship. As the national AMWA Premedical Division’s social media chair, I managed the @Amwapremed social media accounts and collaborated with region directors to enhance networking and collaboration amongst members. At Rowan SOM, I serve as the IDEA Council (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Action) representative where I attend safe spaces addressing concerns relating to diverse groups in medicine. I have organized various panels, including one about women in medicine with former AMWA president Dr. Theresa M. Rohr-Kirchgraber, MD and Dr. Ahmara G. Ross, MD, PhD. As Region 2 Director, improved collaboration and national AMWA involvement amongst AMWA branches in Region 2 and between regions with excellent communication and engagement. I implemented the annual conference as Region 2 director, focused on mentoring, advocating for and empowering women in medicine. I believe my connections from previous AMWA involvement will enhance interactions as social media chair.

Biosketch: Afeerah Ahmad is a third year medical student at the Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine. She graduated from Drexel University with a B.S. in Biological Sciences, there serving as the university’s AMWA Treasurer, Vice President, and President. As president, she helped organize a conference that facilitated mentorship of undergraduate students by medical professionals Post graduation, Afeerah served as the social media chair of the National AMWA Premedical Division. Now as a medical student, Afeerah has experienced two more leadership positions within AMWA as the RowanSOM chapter’s first year representative and currently as the IDEA Council (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Action) Representative and the prior Region 2 Director. The highlight of her contributions at RowanSOM was organizing a Women in Medicine panel including former AMWA president Dr. Theresa M. Rohr-Kirchgraber, MD and Dr. Ahmara G. Ross, MD, PhD and organizing the national Region 2 conference in October of 2022. Additionally, Afeerah serves as the vice president of the American College of Osteopathic Neurologists and Psychiatrists (ACONP) at Rowan SOM and actively volunteers in the COVID-19 vaccination clinic. She is currently pursuing a research project investigating the rates of child physical abuse during the COVID-19 pandemic. Afeerah’s hobbies include kickboxing, singing, playing the clarinet, and spending time with her family, friends, and her black cat, Sassparilla.

Kylie Schmitt

Primary Goal: I hope to assist in curating a unique brand for the Student Division that feels inclusive and provides a feeling of community.

Highlighted Qualifications: My experiences include social media liaison and vice president for my medical school’s AMWA chapter.

Written message for AMWA Members: As a young woman in medicine, it is vital to have access to female mentors to look to for advice. I have been lucky enough to find incredible mentors, who have shown me that women can truly do it all. AMWA has given me access to like-minded individuals and a sense of connection to a network of strong women. In my first year of medical school at NSU, I served as the Social Media Liaison and then took on a larger role the following year as Vice President. Starting medical school during a global pandemic was no easy feat. Often, my classmates and I felt isolated given the need for social distancing. So, my goal as Social Media Liaison was to create a virtual safe space where people can go to feel heard and connected with their classmates. I assisted in curating an aesthetically pleasing brand for our AMWA chapter that members still talk about today. Social media is powerful and I hope to be able to continue that goal as Social Media Chair and connect women from all over. I hope to increase involvement at a national level and encourage more women to join to expand our network!

Biosketch: Kylie Schmitt is a third-year medical student at Nova Southeastern University Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine. She was born and raised in Boca Raton, Florida, where her passion for medicine began when she attended a medical academy for high school. She then attended the University of Florida, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Science. Through the years, Kylie gained meaningful mentorship from the insiprational women around her. These relationships led her to join AMWA as a first-year medical student and serve the eboard for two years. In her free time, she enjoys practicing yoga, baking, and spending time with friends and family.

Regional Director Candidates:

Region 1 Candidates:

Amalia Bay

Primary Goal: To foster a supportive community through branch communication and additional regional events.

Highlighted Qualifications: My initiatives with AMWA and beyond displays my commitment to the success of all conceived missions.

Written message for AMWA Members: My leadership in AMWA’s initiatives has focused on student wellness and community engagement, two values which I plan to bring to the region. Currently, we have few cross-branch events and [regional] events championing diversity, and so I envision better communication between branch leaders so zoom events may be shared and so there may be a more robust mentoring network. In my time on the LMSA board, I proposed that we provide a space to honor the Latinx community at the medical school. I spearheaded the event planning and brought organizations together to create the first ever AMS Salsa Night Fundraiser for Latinx History Month, raising over $3,000 for a local Latinx organization. When I plan something, I follow through; if I’m elected regional director, I will bring this same intensity, along with the skills of bridging divides and event planning. Given that many of our institutions are close in geographical proximity I’d like to work with the branch leaders to create in person events as well. I was grateful for the opportunity to begin connecting with other institutions through assisting in this year’s regional conference and I look forward to furthering these ties if I am elected regional director.

Biosketch: Modeling after my efforts as the president of The Alpert Medical School’s (AMS) AMWA branch, I’d like to see a more unified community in the region. At Brown I found common ground through which AMWA could work harmoniously with other initiatives to support women in medicine. With the support of my fellow AMWA leaders, our branch held a comprehensive calendar of events which led to growth in participation. As mentorship chair of the AMS Latinx Medical Student Association (LMSA) I facilitated the connection with AMWA for Latinx History Month to create a platform for conversations on student and physician empowerment to speak up about unjust care for women. Together the groups hosted a movie screening followed by an impassioned discussion on the continued concern for reproductive rights, particularly in the current political climate. Furthermore, I created a mentorship program at a local underserved public middle school to support students URiM. Open to all students, the program aims to reduce the intersectional systemic issues that add to the already difficult burden for women in medicine. I’d love to bring bright minds together across the region to create more spaces for supporting women in medicine and creating innovations for systemic problems.

Region 2 Candidates:

Darrian Reyes

Primary Goal: To advocate for women’s health equity and to provide mentorship alongside a dedicated group

Highlighted Qualifications: MPH in Outcomes Research, Outreach Committee Member at Rowan Community Health Clinic, Pre-medical student mentor at Rowan SOM BRIDGE Program

Written message for AMWA Members: My MPH and volunteer experiences have further driven me to pursue a physician career; specifically, one that caters to underserved populations. Working as a health researcher whilst pursuing my MPH, I witnessed firsthand the inequities in healthcare and the lack of health literacy in the patient majority. Through personal experience of female patient mistreatment, I truly began to appreciate the value of patient education and advocacy. I was especially interested in the challenges disproportionately faced by women in medicine; for both patients and professionals. My roles as health researcher, pre-medical student mentor, clinical volunteer, and AMWA student panelist have provided an opportunity to support my community while guiding others with synonymous passions of medicine and women’s health. I am excited at the opportunity to further participate, learn, and serve underserved populations as an AMWA regional director. As regional director, I plan to collaborate with Region 2 AMWA branch presidents, to ensure efficient organization and effective communication between nationals and branches. In addition to assigned responsibilities, I will provide opportunities for learning, leadership, and advocacy through volunteer and member events, including menstrual product drive. Furthermore, I will continue this experience for my career as a physician advocating women’s health.

Biosketch: My name is Darrian Reyes, OMS-3 at Rowan-Virtua SOM in New Jersey. I was introduced to the intricacies of medicine, public health, and health advocacy at an early age with several family members employed in the medical field. As an undergraduate student, I was given the opportunity to serve as a volunteer on a Medical Dental Brigade to Panama. During this brigade, I volunteered in a medical clinic, assisting physicians and pharmacists in providing the community with medications. Heavily impacted by unfamiliar diseases related to living conditions, I was inspired to learn more about public health and its significance in parallel to medicine. I decided to change my major to Public Health, lead a Public Health Brigade the following year, and applied for a Master’s degree in Public Health (MPH). After receiving my MPH, I entered medical school, again, eager to learn about further serving my community; I volunteered at the RowanSOM COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic and currently serve as a committee member at the Rowan Community Health Center (RCHC) and a pre-medical student mentor. I believe that a proper medical education includes learning beyond the classroom and advocating for the community’s needs.

Niralee Rana

Primary Goal: I will create a NY/NJ mentorship program. I will host regional meetings to check in with E-Boards.

Highlighted Qualifications: While creating the pre-med chapter at Hofstra, I built something from the ground up which honed my communication and management skills.

Written message for AMWA Members: There are several obstacles women face on their journey to becoming physicians. Issues of inequity make it more difficult for many women to strive in medical school, residency, and their careers as attendings. I have always seen AMWA as a community that aims to minimize these struggles, and has connected me to like minded individuals with goals of advocating for women physicians. I hope AMWA is an organization for members to look to for professional advice. After being a part of the organization for 4 years, holding several local and national leadership positions, I have met countless members across the country, at all levels of training. These relationships taught me that many members across the US face very similar gender-based challenges at school/work and should not have to struggle alone. As a regional director in the national student division, I plan to be a representative and point of contact for medical students in my region. While planning the regional conference, I will plan professional development workshops that cater to the common issues students are facing.

Biosketch: My name is Niralee Rana and I am a first year medical student at Rowan-Virtual School of Osteopathic Medicine in South Jersey. My journey with AMWA started my freshman year of college when I started up a pre-medical chapter at my alma mater, Hofstra University on Long Island New York (Region 2). It was such a unique experience building the club from the ground up which is when I fell in love with AMWA and wanted to get more involved. I joined the national pre-medical committee to help plan student workshops for the 2021 National Conference and then joined the national Gender Equity Task Force as a research coordinator. After matriculation to medical school, I became the historian for my Rowan graduate chapter (Region 2). The lifelong friendships and mentorships I have fostered through AMWA have encouraged me to always be an advocate for women in medicine at every level of training. In my free time, I enjoy painting, playing clarinet, training for marathons, and cooking new meals for my family and friends!

Region 3 Candidates:

Pallavi Kawatra

Primary Goal: Continue creating a culture for women to feel comfortable sharing their stories and empower them.

Highlighted Qualifications: Volunteering with women to support them to feel in control of their story and advocate for themselves.

Written message for AMWA Members: I have met many different women who have seeded my passion for women’s equality and the difficulties they have faced have given me a sense of purpose: to create equity and advocate for women in healthcare. If elected as Regional Director, I am excited to work with other branches in my region to create a dynamic conference for AWMA. For me, this would entail working directly with members and understanding the types of events and speakers that would be the most impactful for them. As the President of my fraternity in college, I learned that I can be the most effective leader if I lead proactively with my team by listening to them. As Regional Director, I would ensure that my peers feel comfortable speaking with me and knowing that their ideas will be not only heard but voiced. Furthermore, I am very excited by the opportunity to create mentorship programs for local premed students and connect them with medical students to learn about the daunting process of applying to medical school as well as to discover their passion and love for medicine. Creating a connection between women as an opportunity for growth and continued guidance would be a privilege.

Biosketch: Pallavi Kawatra (she/her/hers) is a first year medical student at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. She received her Bachelor of Neuroscience degree from University of the Sciences. She has always been extremely passionate about women’s rights and equity. During highschool, she worked at the United Nations speaking with women from all over the world to learn about their experiences and advocated for continued improvement on various issues. During college, she spoke to many incredible people within the community. She spent hours listening to the intersecting realities they have faced between their cultural backgrounds and their health. This opportunity and others urge her to want to learn about the challenges that women face, push forward to make differences that improve quality of life, and translate these initiatives to reach the greatest number of people as possible. Along with her academic work, Pallavi is a PCOM DO Ambassador and serves on the eboard for PCOM HEARTs, the student run clinic on campus where she is working on hosting workshops that serve to educate and provide resources for the community. Pallavi enjoys binging reality TV shows, spending time in local coffee shops, and the occasional baking days!

Region 4 Candidates:

Vikasni Mohan

Primary Goal: Organize a valuable and informative conference that brings together medical students in region 4.

Highlighted Qualifications: I served on national AMWA premedical leadership for 3 years and have prior experience being a RD.

Written message for AMWA Members: I joined AMWA in undergrad and since then have loved the supportive and uplifting community that is AMWA. I want to be involved in AMWA to bring the same supportive and collaborative community to other medical students and to advocate for issues that are important to all of us as medical students and future physicians. If elected I plan to organize a valuable and informative regional conference where medical students in region 4 can interact with the speakers and each other. I would also like to host events between different AMWA branches that are near each other and promote a culture of collaboration and empowerment through different events. Ultimately, I will be ready to listen to your needs and help in any way that I can to make sure that your voices are heard. I believe I have the experience and skills that will allow me to be a great regional director since I have served as the AMWA national premedical region 4 director and have planned regional conferences and mentorship programs before. As your region 4 director I hope to foster a supportive environment and help make this a successful year for the region and all its AMWA members.

Biosketch: Vikasni Mohan is a first-year medical student at the University of Miami in the MD/MPH program. She graduated from the University of Florida with a B.S. in Medical Geography and previously served as national AMWA’s premedical Region 4 Director (2019-2020), Treasurer (2020-2021), and Vice President of Recruitment (2021-2022). As regional director and later vice president, Vikasni helped organize regional conferences and mentorship and helped guide other regional directors in planning their conferences. Currently at the University of Miami Vikasni is on her Class Council, serving as the Student Government representative and working closely with incoming medical students. Vikasni is involved with researching the impact of workplace exposures on the health of female firefighters, as well as researching gender disparities in academic medicine. Vikasni is passionate about gender equity, environmental health, and quality improvement. Vikasni’s hobbies include reading, dancing, photography, trying new restaurants, and traveling, and she enjoys spending time with friends and family.

Region 5 Candidates:

Irene Arora

Primary Goal: Promote the inclusive mission of women from all backgrounds finding common ground in healthcare.

Highlighted Qualifications: I planned A Healthcare Journey; an undergraduate conference with deans of VCU healthcare schools

Written message for AMWA Members: If elected, my goal for AMWA would be to widen AMWA’s all-inclusive mission of helping women from all backgrounds find common ground in the setting of healthcare. Being a minority medical student from a Caribbean medical school my goal is to promote AMWA’s all-inclusive mission of showing that the organization is open to all female members without judgement regardless of educational background in the means of receiving their unique perspectives on the roles of women in healthcare throughout the globe.

Biosketch: Getting involved with AMWA opens discussions about other aspects of life that females are often more exposed to than men such as gender inequality, domestic and gun violence. What I bring to the table is my unique perspective on being a minority as a Caribbean medical student who has seen the inequalities that women face both in other lesser developed countries and home in the United States. I wish to expand discussions open to women who’ve practiced and studied medicine throughout the country, learning how their experiences and perspective influence their viewpoint and practices. As regional director I would like to connect multiple zones of medical students and practices together in order to create a shared space for exploration of other women’s experiences with medicine and the overall treatment of women’s health throughout the country with the integration of how useful and unique practices have been used to enhance women’s healthcare at here home. I hope to share AMWA’s all-inclusive mission statement making it known AMWA is open to women from all educational backgrounds and wants to hear from those who come from non-traditional backgrounds in hopes to add to the ever-growing diversity of AMWA’s members.

Vidhatri Raturi

Primary Goal: To foster strong relationships to promote cross collaboration focused on progress towards a common goal.

Highlighted Qualifications: Past president and founder of pre-med chapter at Tulane and President of the medical school chapter.

Written message for AMWA Members: AMWA not only provides me with a strong support system during my medical journey, but also with the opportunity to be surrounded by like-minded individuals working towards a common goal of promoting equity in medicine and advocating for women’s health. AMWA members motivate and empower me with the confidence needed to achieve my goals of becoming a physician. I hope to pay it forward by creating similar experiences for others. I founded and served as President of the pre-med AMWA chapter at Tulane University. To unite AMWA medical and pre-medical chapters across the US, I hosted a Zoom speaker event. In my three years as President, this was our biggest event and we received tremendous positive feedback. Currently, I serve as President of my medical school chapter at Tulane and as Fundraising Chair of American Women’s Hospital Services. If elected, I hope to create more opportunities for chapters to collaborate on events, share resources, and develop strong relationships. I plan on facilitating a shared advocacy/service project, hosting virtual social events, and integrating self-care initiatives into the regional conference. I aim to use continuous feedback from the chapters I will be overseeing to develop programs that cater to the needs expressed.

Biosketch: I received by B.S. in Neuroscience, M.S. in Neuroscience, and M.S. in Bioethics and Medical Humanities from Tulane University. Currently, I am pursuing my M.D. at Tulane University School of Medicine and my M.P.H. in International Health and Sustainable Development at Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine. Moreso, I am a Pincus Scholar under the Violence Prevention Institute. I have won several university-wide awards for inter-disciplinary collaboration, service, leadership, and innovation. I am a strong advocate for bringing people together. Whether it be in educational experiences or extracurricular experiences, I have found that cross-functional integration leads to the most positive outcomes. I emphasize supporting people as well as making individuals feel heard and that they are valuable contributors to the team. I have had experiences overseeing multiple entities while leading cross-departmental initiatives serving women and children, facilitating a COVID relief drive in India, collaborating with criminal justice reform organizations, and spearheading non-profit work in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Further, my experiences in leadership due to serving as President of several clubs and leading various inter-disciplinary projects have garnered me with the skills necessary to thrive in this position such as organization, being personable, and drive.

Region 6 Candidates:

Jennifer Kim

Primary Goal: Providing support and guidance to all AMWA members through mentorship and professional networking.

Highlighted Qualifications: Served as the Region 1 Director of the Premedical Division and the president of our school chapter.

Written message for AMWA Members: AMWA has truly been the most welcoming, accepting, and supportive community throughout my journey in medicine. I joined AMWA in 2018, and I am proud to be a part of the network of amazing women that provides mentorship, advocacy, and support for each other. As a regional director of the national pre-med AMWA division, I ran a regional conference by working closely with other regional directors, medical students, and physicians. During the meetings with local AMWA branches, I listened to their concerns and questions and provide them with resources to help their members. Throughout my life, I aim to continue learning, educating, and advocating. I am just so excited to be able to grow while pulling inspiration from those who have come before me, and always being a resource for those who will come after me, because we all have our times when we need support, and we are the ones who can give that support. I thank AMWA for helping me realize that my journey into medicine is full of empowering women with a robust support system. As a regional director of AMWA, that is exactly what I aim to provide to my current and future AMWA peers.

Biosketch: Jennifer Kim is a second-year medical student at the University of Toledo College of Medicine and Life Sciences (UT-COMLS). She received a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and a Minor in Biology with a pre-med concentration in 2018. Following graduation, she took gap years to explore the healthcare system in the US and other countries. This led her to work in various clinical settings, from private practice to free clinics to university hospitals and work with leprosy patients at Sorokdo National Hospital in South Korea. She also served as Region 1 Director of the National Premedical Division during the 2020-2021 term. She has been elected as the president of the UTCOMLS AMWA chapter in her second year of medical school. In her free time, she loves to try new cuisines and take pictures of nature.

Region 7 Candidates:

Chloe Maye

Primary Goal: To unite Region 7 through programs that enhance each member’s personal and professional development.

Highlighted Qualifications: I am able to readily adapt to others’ needs, which will help me lead Region 7 with compassion.

Written message for AMWA Members: Every time I see a successful woman physician give a talk or I see one of my female classmates achieve something amazing, I am bathed in a childlike feeling of excitement. Growing up in northeastern Oklahoma, I was afforded access to very few physicians or scientists, and even fewer that identified as women. Coming from that experience, I truly cherish the moments when I am able to see women accomplish the wonderful things we are meant to achieve. I think that AMWA provides a perfect space for women to celebrate and uplift each other. There truly is power in numbers, and the ability of AMWA members to share their experiences and unite against gender bias will propel us into a future that is better for the young girls of tomorrow. My hope for AMWA is that unity will continue to be our strength and that we can work together to battle the forces that work against us. If elected as the next Director of Region 7, I will establish regular communication with all chapters in the region and provide programming that will connect and inspire all women with a passion for medicine – from pre-med students to physicians.

Biosketch: Chloe Maye is a second-year medical student at Kansas City University (KCU) in Joplin, MO. Chloe grew up in Bartlesville, OK, and upon her high school graduation, she made the short trek to Missouri Southern State University (MSSU), where she joined the MSSU-KCU Early Acceptance Program. After a successful stint at her alma mater, Chloe earned her B.S. in Biology in May 2021 before matriculating to her new home: Kansas City University. Chloe quickly ingrained herself into KCU’s campus culture through her leadership in several student organizations, including but not limited to: Co-President of AMWA, Student Trustee for the Board of the Missouri Association of Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons, and President of Sigma Sigma Phi. Beyond her D.O. studies, Chloe is finishing up her Certificate in Public Health and will be applying for her MPH in Health Policy and Administration through University of Nebraska Medical Center this semester. Chloe has also been selected to serve as an Anatomy Fellow at Kansas City University – Joplin for the upcoming academic year, which will allow her to pursue her teaching and research interests. In her free time, Chloe enjoys volunteering at her favorite Joplin nonprofits, Ronald McDonald House and Lafayette House.

Lorraine De Velez

Primary Goal: To celebrate the collective as well as individual successes of AWMA Region 7 chapters and members

Highlighted Qualifications: I organized two intercollegiate events (involved 19 colleges within NY/NJ/CT region) in undergrad

Written message for AMWA Members: My journey prior to and during medical school has involved multiple twists and turns that collectively led me to value mentorship and friendship – both of which I am grateful to have within AMWA. I constantly seek to foster a strong sense of community in the spaces I navigate because I recognize the lasting positive impact a support system can have on an individual’s wellbeing, academic success, and professional trajectory. This has motivated my decision to serve as an Orientation Coordinator for multiple years, as well as my recent endeavors as a co-lead of my school’s chapter of AMWA to form faculty-student and peer-to-peer mentorship pods. My goal for the upcoming year is to strengthen the connections across the Region 7 chapters. If elected as Regional Director, I aim to host bimonthly all-lead meetings to check in with each chapter and hear more about notable achievements (either by the chapter or an individual member), new initiatives, ongoing challenges, and opportunities for networking or career development. I believe that offering the space to share these updates would allow chapters to more seamlessly collaborate on joint events, provide support and share resources, as well as celebrate each others’ successes.

Biosketch: Lorraine de Velez (she/her) is a third-year student at Saint Louis University School of Medicine. She received her Bachelor of Art degree in Psychology at New York University and her Master of Science degree in Biomedical Sciences at Tufts University School of Medicine. Throughout her first and second years at medical school, Lorraine has been instrumental in improving AMWA members’ experiences by creating opportunities for professional skill development, career exploration, as well as faculty and peer mentorship. She also serves on SLU’s Admissions Committee and promotes AMWA’s mission to prospective students. Pursuing a degree distinction in Medical Education, Lorraine is actively organizing clinical skills workshops at the Simulation Lab, conducting epidemiological research, and providing peer tutoring services. Outside of school, she has enjoyed being involved in student-run free clinics, such as the Sharewood Project at Tufts during graduate school and the SLU Health Resource Center during medical school. You will likely catch her hiking with her dog, camping, or running another marathon during her free time.

Region 8 Candidates:

Mayra Repetto

Primary Goal: Facilitate a mentorship program between pre-meds, medical students, and mentors to reduce the mentorship gap women face. Organize discussions on disparities, policy, community engagement, and challenges for women in leadership.

Highlighted Qualifications: As a first-generation Latina, I have a passion for mentorship, advocacy, increasing diversity in medicine, and reducing health disparities.

Written message for AMWA Members: As a first-generation Latina medical student, I infrequently saw women of similar backgrounds pursuing a career in medicine. Being a member of AMWA has led me to form connections with mentors and mentees who reflect the same path of life I do. I aim to work towards increasing diversity in medicine through mentorship and empowering women to pave the path for more equitable pay, leadership opportunities, and the right to determine their health. My goal as the Region 8 Director for AMWA is to organize more health policy and advocacy opportunities for our branches since these topics are rarely taught in medical school curriculums. It’s important to equip ourselves on advocacy initiatives to work towards the ongoing creation of a medical community with a policy skillset. In these efforts, we can impact our patients within the clinic walls and beyond.`

Biosketch: Mayra Repetto (she/her/ella) is a Latina second-year medical student at the Kirk Kerkorian School of Medicine at UNLV. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a minor in Political Science from the University of Utah. At a young age, she wanted to make an impact and give back to her Hispanic/Latino community. After recognizing her immigrant parents’ poor health outcomes were largely influenced by social determinants of health, she knew medicine was the right path to make a difference. At UNLV, she holds leadership positions with the Latino Medical Student Association (LMSA) and the American Medical Women’s Association (AMWA). The highlight of her contributions ranges from facilitating a mentorship program with minority pre-medical and medical students to organizing a health education event on Sex and Gender Health Differences called “Why Women’s Health Matters.” She currently serves as the External Coordinator for the Health Policy and Advocacy Team for LMSA National in hopes of continuously expanding her proficiency in advocacy. Her passions and leadership opportunities reflect her eagerness to advocate for others like herself. In her free time, she likes to exercise, hike, travel, and read.

Sofia Olsson

Primary Goal: I plan to strengthen the relationship between chapters to increase national advocacy and teamwork.

Highlighted Qualifications: I am TCU AMWA vice president, organized women’s mentorship on campus, local women’s health events.

Written message for AMWA Members: My name is Sofia Olsson (she/her) and I am passionate about women’s advocacy, rights, reproductive health, and behavioral health. I have organized several initiatives as vice president of TCU AMWA, such as speakers on thriving in a male-dominated field, an on-campus longitudinal women in medicine mentorship, two period supply drives, an underrepresented women in medicine panel, and more. I thrive in team settings that involve collaborating with colleagues to bring our goals to fruition. As a leader, I will strongly encourage my team to share their passions, initiating several meaningful projects and advocacy events. I have leadership experience as TCU AMWA Vice President, ENT Interest Group President, co-founder, volleyball coach, and as captain of my undergraduate volleyball team. Importantly, my primary goal is to strengthen the cross-communication and event planning between pre-medical, medical student, and physician AMWA chapters. I initiated the creation of a Region 8 GroupMe to coordinate events and hope to involve more groups nationally. Together, we can achieve tremendous steps toward women’s rights, advocacy, and health. As an executive member of national AMWA, I will promise to facilitate and lead major collaborative initiatives, increasing our already profound impact on the US.

Biosketch: Sofia Olsson (she/her) is a second year medical student at Burnett School of medicine at TCU. She is a first-generation Swedish-American and college volleyball player who loves to stay active and achieve goals with her team-members. Sofia double-majored with two Bachelor of Science degrees in Biology and Chemistry in 2020. Upon starting medical school in 2021, she discovered her passions in women’s advocacy, reproductive rights, reproductive health, and behavioral health. She has pursued these passions as Vice President of TCU AMWA where she initiated several now-annual events, such as period supply drives, women’s longitudinal mentorship programs, and speakers. Sofia has leadership experience as a college volleyball captain, student interest group president, and founding member of a COVID-19 free testing lab in 2020. Sofia is passionate about bringing women together for their voices to be heard and encourages the participation of our fellow “man-bassador” colleagues. She believes in advocating for female colleagues both within and outside of the healthcare settings. By incorporating the intersecting foci of health, leadership, and advocacy, she advocates for women in all aspects of life, making sure voices are heard and inequities are highlighted.

Sarah Osborn

Primary Goal: Improve communication with each branch and connect the region through empowering each other.

Highlighted Qualifications: At my AMWA chapter I hold an executive position very similar. I send out monthly newsletters, run social media, and take meeting minutes.

Written message for AMWA Members: AMWA is at the forefront of women empowerment and changing the health care system. I want to be part of that change and make an impact for women. My goal for AMWA is to be internationally known for women empowerment, advocacy, and changing the healthcare system for the better. I believe I have the qualifications for this role. I have been involved in women organizations and with those organizations, I have held multiple positions. In those positions, I served on executive boards to help plan events, manage membership, and support the women in the organizations. I plan on using those same skills I developed to make a positive impact as a Regional Director. For my region members, I plan on hosting conferences that would include networking throughout the region, education information based on what the members of the region need, and hopefully some current residents and physicians speaking and answering questions to empower the region. I want to focus on connecting the region together and having communication that would highlight what each branch in the region is doing. Also, I want to implement sending out monthly snapshots of educational programs, advocacy committees, and other opportunities for AMWA members.

Region 9 Candidates:

Victoria (Tori) McDonald

Primary Goal: My goal for AMWA is to encourage active involvement and collaboration from all members of my region.

Highlighted Qualifications: I will highlight my background being on both regional and national conference planning committees.

Written message for AMWA Members: AMWA is the most unique organization that I have been a part of and it has been an absolute honor to work with their members. Every person that I have met has been so receptive to creative ideas on how we can improve women’s health and those providing health services. Even more importantly, everyone involved works extremely hard to bring member’s ideas to action. As the Region 9 Director, I hope to continue this legacy of helping my region develop their passions and work with them to build their campus and community programs to foster continued improvements for women in medicine and the women’s health field. Previously, I was an ambassador for the MWIA Centennial Conference that was hosted by AMWA in 2019 where I was able to be a part of the planning and execution of that conference. On a more region-specific level, I helped to plan the OHSU AMWA regional conference with OHSU’s leadership board and was the founding member of the AMWA chapter at the University of Portland. I have extensive experience with conference planning and coordinating with large groups of people which I believe makes me a great candidate to be your Region 9 Director.

Biosketch: Tori McDonald (she/her) is a medical student at Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences. She was the founding member of her AMWA chapter at the University of Portland and was able to bring several of AMWA’s initiatives to fruition in the Portland area. She started the Pilots Matter, Period petition on her campus in undergraduate and presented the HPV and Cervical Cancer Prevention lesson to several middle school classes. Tori was also an ambassador for the MWIA Centennial Conference in New York where she connected with several AMWA leaders. While in medical school, she has remained an active member of AMWA by being a part of her Women in Medicine Club at PNWU and by participating in the National Mentorship Program. As a first-generation medical student and health care professional, her hope is to provide resources to those navigating the medical admissions process on their own. Throughout her work and education, she has developed her passion for youth education and women’s health and works hard to improve the lives of the communities that she is a part of. Outside of school, work and volunteering, she enjoys cooking, baking, watching movies and spending time outside with her friends and family.

Welcome to the AMWA Medical Student Division Election 2023-2024!

President Elect Candidates:

Treasurer-Elect Candidate:

Secretary Candidates:

Advocacy Chair Candidates:

Award Chair Candidates:

Co-Conference Chair Candidates:

Global Health Chair Candidates:

Mentorship Chair Candidates:

Philanthropy Chair Candidates:

Programming Chair Candidates:

Recruitment Chair Candidates:

Research Chair Candidates:

Social Media Chair Candidates:

Regional Director Candidates:

Region 1 Candidates:

Region 2 Candidates:

Region 3 Candidates:

Region 4 Candidates:

Region 5 Candidates:

Region 6 Candidates:

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Region 8 Candidates:

Region 9 Candidates:

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