Medical Student AAFP Leaders
Elected and Appointed Positions
Medical students make significant contributions to family medicine as members of the wide variety of boards, commissions, and inter-organizational teams that shape the AAFP. Experience in a leadership role provides valuable career insight and unique mentorship opportunities.
Most medical student leadership positions serve for a one-year term, many beginning in the fall.
As medical care and health care reform undergo pivotal changes, the voice of medical students is critical in shaping a future that aligns with the core principles of primary care. Learn what drew current leaders to their roles and find out what they hope to achieve through their skills and passion for family medicine.
Elected National AAFP Leaders
Christopher Prokosch
University of Minnesota Medical School
Student Member of the AAFP Board of Directors
In his role, Christopher brings a student perspective to high-level decision-making discussions of the AAFP Board of Directors.
"Primary Care lays the foundation for a stronger healthcare system and healthier communities. In this overburdened and politically divisive era of medicine, it's critical to recruit and maintain quality doctors who find meaning in knowing their patients and who are committed to strengthening their communities. I'm excited about Family Medicine and thrilled to have the chance to work for the AAFP to help aspiring healthcare providers find their passion in Fam Med!"
Richard Easterling
University of Mississippi School of Medicine
Student Member of the AAFP Board of Directors
In his role, Richard brings a student perspective to high-level decision-making discussions of the AAFP Board of Directors.
"Over the next year, I hope to establish connections within the AAFP with some of our amazing leadership and staff, to learn from them and to enable me to work with them throughout my career. I hope that my experience on the board will give me knowledge of how the AAFP operates at the highest level, and I plan to use this experience and knowledge when I am writing future resolutions to the AAFP and working with my state academy to recruit future physicians to family medicine, and to work towards improving the daily lives of family physicians and our patients."
Samantha Driscoll
University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
Student Chair of the AAFP National Conference
In her role, Samantha provides input into planning the theme, programming, and special activities for the upcoming National Conference.
"As Student Chair of the National Conference, I hope to further the mission and vision of AAFP for creating a positive environment for students choosing family medicine, thus strengthening the family medicine pipeline and workforce. I will continue to engage students and work closely with AAFP staff to create this environment for students at National Conference in 2023. I am excited to work in this role by enthusiastically furthering the mission of AAFP and advocating for continued positive change in family medicine."
Olivia M. Dhaliwal
Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
Student Delegate to the AAFP Congress of Delegates
In her role, Olivia represents student member interestes at the AAFP Congress of Delegates and functions as a member of the AAFP Commission on Education.
"I aspire to amplify the issues and ideas held by current medical students who see their futures in family medicine - their concerns and fears, as well as their hopes and dreams. Over the past few tumultuous years that have invariably marked my life and my medical school journey, I know that a strong workforce of broadly trained, capable family doctors are crucial - and that can’t come to fruition without the buy in of my peers. I am grateful to the Academy for recognizing and validating the input of medical students; I look forward to using my voice and presence at CoD to advocate for my peers’ interests."
Commissions
Sumayya Vawda
Northeast Ohio Medical University College of Medicine
Student Member of the AAFP Commission on Continuing Professional Development
This role includes the study of health care delivery systems (e.g., PCMH, ACOs), performance measurement, practice redesign/quality improvement, privileging, health information technology, practice management, private sector advocacy, and physician payment.
"I look forward to becoming part of the AAFP medical community and collaborate with peers and mentors who have the passion, desire, and drive to act as leaders committed to serving the needs of patients, families, and communities. I hope to bring strategic and innovative ideas to inform existing and novel CME delivery methods and modalities to ensure that we are identifying patient care areas that need improvement and change their performance."
Whitney Peterson
Georgetown University School of Medicine
Student Member of the AAFP Commission on Health of the Public and Science
Whitney's role includes contributing to a wide scope of issues, such as health of the public, evidence-based clinical recommendations and care, generation of new knowledge and science with dissemination and implementation, and disparities and the underserved populations.
"As a Student Member on the AAFP Commission on Health of the Public and Science, I hope to advocate for promoting health equity and for eliminating health disparities amongst society's most vulnerable populations. With my role, I hope to continue learning about our nation's most crucial public health concerns and contribute my support for various policies for the improvement of the health of the public."
Rafay Nasir
Penn State University College of Medicine
Student Member of the AAFP Commission on Quality and Practice
Rafay's role includes the study of health care delivery systems (e.g., PCMH, ACOs), performance measurement, practice redesign/quality improvement, privileging, health information technology, practice management, private sector advocacy, and physician payment.
"Through this role, I hope to work with other leaders to improve the practice environment for family physicians. Especially considering the shortage in primary care and the key role that medical students will play in filling this shortage, I hope to use my voice to help elicit the student perspective in improving our healthcare delivery systems."
Julie Ngo
Michigan State University College of Human Medicine - Flint
Student Member of the Commission on Education
Julie's role includes the study of health care delivery systems (e.g., PCMH, ACOs), performance measurement, practice redesign/quality improvement, privileging, health information technology, practice management, private sector advocacy, and physician payment.
"Through this role, I hope to:
1. Inspire future and current medical students to pursue family medicine, as well as advocating for a more equitable and inclusive learning environment for all learners and developing professionals.
2. Provide a student perspective in developing a comprehensive training curriculum for family medicine that serves the needs of the public.
3. Dedicate efforts into providing trauma-informed and culturally competent medical education whenever possible.
Vineet Raman
University of Minnesota Medical School
Student Member of the AAFP Commission on Federal and State Policy
As a representative of the AAFP's Commission on Federal and State Policy, Vineet is involved in guiding the Academy's advocacy efforts before the federal government and to assist the constituent chapters in their advocacy efforts before state governments.
"I hope to channel the voices of young physicians-in-training into the AAFP's policy and advocacy work so that we can change American healthcare to better reflect our values. I look forward to connecting with physicians, students, and residents from across the country and learning how AAFP can play a role in building a more equitable healthcare system."
FMIG Network Leaders
Taree Michelle Chadwick
University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine
Family Medicine Interest Group (FMIG) Network National Coordinator
Contact Taree Michelle Chadwick
In her role, Taree leads the FMIG Network to connect and strengthen FMIGs across the country, and helps plan National Conference.
"This year I hope to continue to build out our FMIG network and engage students across regions through programming and events. I also want to continue the work of our previous liaisons and DEI workforce by promoting student voices across all backgrounds, making sure underrepresented voices in medicine be heard and addressed in the AAFP. Another goal of mine is to continue to work with our pipeline programs and encourage enthusiasm for Family Medicine early on."
Derek Southwick
University of Washington School of Medicine
Family Medicine Interest Group (FMIG) Network Region 1 Coordinator
In this role, Derek communicates with FMIG leaders at each medical school in his region, serving as a resource of information about the AAFP and assisting with FMIG programming.
"My goal is to create a safe space where students can come together to connect, build friendships, share ideas, and learn more about this amazing specialty. I'm excited to share my passion for family medicine. I want to connect students with opportunities to become involved in family medicine. I look forward to working with local FMIG chapters to highlight the full scope of possibilities for those looking to practice family medicine. I'm here to serve those interested in family medicine and invite you to contact me with any questions."
Michael Persinger
University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
Family Medicine Interest Group (FMIG) Network Region 2 Coordinator
In his role, Michael communicates with FMIG leaders at each medical school in his region, serving as a resource of information about the AAFP and assisting with FMIG programming.
"As an FMIG Regional Coordinator, I hope to foster a sense of community between the various FMIGs within the region. Ideally, by establishing this community, it will lead to increased collaboration between the different local FMIGs and continue to promote new ideas and developments for students interested in family medicine. Additionally, I hope to serve as an active resource, mentor, and navigator for the various local FMIG leaders and students."
Julia Schulte
Central Michigan University
Family Medicine Interest Group (FMIG) Network Region 3 Coordinator
In her role, Julia communicates with FMIG leaders at each medical school in her region, serving as a resource of information about the AAFP and assisting with FMIG programming.
"As a student of a relatively young medical school, I am excited to learn about the possibilities and opportunities for growing, nurturing, and connecting Family Medicine Interest Groups within the region! I hope to be a helpful resource by informing and encouraging current and prospective medical students to explore a career in Family Medicine."
Jaime Sesgundo
University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine
Family Medicine Interest Group (FMIG) Network Region 4 Coordinator
In his role, Jaime communicates with FMIG leaders at each medical school in his region, serving as a resource of information about the AAFP and assisting with FMIG programming.
"As the incoming FMIG Regional Coordinator, I hope to connect and network with the greater Family Medicine community across the west coast. Additionally, my aim is develop both as an aspiring family physician and community leader."
Allison Smith
Liberty University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Family Medicine Interest Group (FMIG) Network Region 5 Coordinator
In her role, Allison communicates with FMIG leaders at each medical school in her region, serving as a resource of information about the AAFP and assisting with FMIG programming.
"My goal is to provide a space where FMIGs in the region can grow their respective programs by learning, sharing, and exploring opportunities together. It is my hope to help fellow medical students maximize their connections within their states and across the nation. By facilitating collaboration between programs, we can grow support for family medicine and grow student connection with the National AAFP. These connections will help us ensure a stronger foundation and network of medical students, residents, active and retired physicians who are all passionate about family medicine."
Ernie Rodriguez
Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara School of Medicine
Family Medice Interest Group (FMIG) International Medical Schools Coordinator
In his role, Ernie communicates with FMIG leaders at each medical school in his region, serving as a resource of information about the AAFP and assisting with FMIG programming.
"As a FMIG Network International Medical Schools Coordinator, I hope to serve as a mentor and help enhance the opportunities for international medical students interested in the specialty of family medicine. My plan is to provide support to an existing FMIG at an international medical school(s) and assist those students interested in establishing a FMIG at their respective institution. I will serve as a mentor providing FMIG leaders with AAFP resources and assist them with FMIG programming. Through AAFP and FMIGs, I want to inspire more students to consider and/or continue pursuing a career in family medicine."
Representatives and Liaisons to Other Organizations
Melissa Gonzalez
USC Keck School of Medicine
Student Liaison to the Latino Medical Student Association
In her role, Melissa works to connect medical student members of the AAFP with LMSA activities and initiatives. She is closely involved with the Family Medicine Interest Group Network, and participates in regular meetings and projects with this collaborative.
"As a first-generation daughter of Mexican immigrants, I am looking forward to serving the AAFP as the Student Liaison to the Latino Medical Student Association. Being involved with the Family Medicine Student Interest Group and LMSA at my institution has given me insight into both organizations and how to best serve in my new role."
Breanna Chachere
University of Houston College of Medicine
Student Liaison to the Student National Medical Association
In her role, Breanna works to connect medical student members of the AAFP with SNMA activities and initiatives. She is closely involved with the Family Medicine Interest Group Network, and participates in regular meetings and projects with this collaborative.
"My medical passions include mentorship and health equity, and it is my goal to promote a culture of diversity and inclusion in the specialty of family medicine so that academic and clinical environments are inclusive, accessible, and welcoming for underrepresented medical students (URM). In this role, I hope to expand knowledge of family medicine to URM nationally and to emphasize how this specialty, at it’s core, is a launchpad for patient advocacy through management and prevention of chronic health conditions and preventable diseases, many of which primarily affect populations of color and underserved communities. Ultimately, through the cultivation of opportunities that expose SNMA members to mentorship, networking, education and advocacy opportunities, I hope to enhance student understanding of family medicine, the AAFP, and the breadth of family practice resources that are available."
Madeline Standbridge
East Tennessee State University James H. Quillen College of Medicine
Student Member of the AAFP Foundation Board of Trustees
In her role, Madeline is involved with high-level decision making on a nonprofit board of trustees.
"In my role as the student member on the AAFP Foundation Board of Trustees I will strive to guide the AAFP Foundation’s initiatives to provide more opportunities for others to share their passion for Family Medicine, intentionally invest in their communities, and obtain the necessary resources to achieve all of their goals."
Caryssa Lim, MPH
Kaiser Permanente Bernard J. Tyson School of Medicine
Student Member of the Society of Teachers of Family Medicine (STFM) Board of Directors
In her role, Caryssa informs decisions made by the STFM Board of Directors and has voting rights on two STFM bodies. Highlights include developing leadership skills with the help of leaders in family medicine education, and getting the chance to organize conference sessions.
"I am excited to work with the STFM Board of Directors to continue to support initiatives related to inclusive training environments, retainment of faculty of color, and innovations in curricula around anti-racism, health systems science, and equity, inclusion, and diversity. In my role, I hope to use my passion and experiences in public health, medical education, and community-centered practices to advocate for a structure of medical education that prioritizes justice, healing, and wellness for both patients and providers."
Elizabeth Flores
David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Student Delegate to the AMA Medical Student Section
In this role, Elizabeth represents AAFP student interests at AMA meetings and interacts with AMA delegates from the AAFP.
"I hope to advocate for AMA policy that will improve healthcare for marginalized and excluded communities like my own. I will also advocate for policies that will strengthen primary and preventative care to keep communities healthy."
AAFP Advisory and Program Boards
Evan Starr
Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Student Member to the Editorial Board of AFP Journal
In this role, Evan participates in activities helping to develop and maintain the journal.
"I hope to better connect students with all the fantastic resources available through the American Family Physician Journal."
Maggie Turner
Rush Medical College of Rush University Medical Center
Student Fellow Representative of the National Research Network (NRN) Advisory Group
"I look forward to working with the NRN in expanding family medicine research to improve access to care and health outcomes for patients across the country. I hope to represent as many student perspectives as possible, so I invite you to connect with me and share your thoughts."
Alex Sher, ARNP, OMS-3
Lincoln Memorial University
Student Member of the Annals of Family Medicine Editorial Advisory Board
In this role, Alex helps improve the AFP journal by providing input and feedback, contributing to social media planning, and taking part in regular editorial meetings. He also helps share essential resources from the journal with medical students around the country.
"I hope to advocate for more osteopathic doctors to participate in medical research and promote research in family medicine amongst medical students."