TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Introduction & Letter from Associate Chair and Program Director 2. Introducing Class of 2025: Pediatric Residents 3. Introducing Class of 2025: Pediatric Surgical & Subspecialty Fellows 4. Office of Medical Education
a. Pediatric Residency Program Administration
b. Pediatric Surgical and Subspecialty Fellowship Program Administration
c. Graduate Medical Education Administration
5. Award Recipients
a. Resident Awards for Faculty and Staff
b. Fellow Professionalism & Teaching Awards
c. Resident and Fellow Research Awards
6. Looking Back: 2022-2025 7. Thank you
The University of Connecticut Pediatric Residency Program celebrates its 49th year educating new pediatricians, and its ongoing success training pediatric subspecialists of the future. 2025 marks the 29th year Connecticut Children’s has been the primary clinical site for the University of Connecticut Pediatric Residency Program in addition to our 12 ACGME-Accredited Pediatric Surgical and Subspecialty Fellowship Programs.
The graduates from the class of 2025 have trained in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and during a time where we had historic patient volumes and continue to grapple with a child mental health crisis. These graduates have demonstrated resiliency, flexibility and an unwavering commitment to always provide the highest quality of patient care over the past three years in a unique and at times challenging environment. The fortitude and perseverance of our trainees have shown is commendable!
Together with the entire Connecticut Children’s faculty and staff, we applaud your remarkable efforts which have contributed to the success of our graduate medical education programs. We have continued to provide compassionate, dedicated care to our communities while seeking new and innovative ways to ensure state-of-the-art education across the spectrum of medical training. We celebrate all the accomplishments of our newly minted pediatric specialists and subspecialists!
Congratulations on your graduation!
Andrea D. Orsey, MD, MSCE, MS-HPEd
Associate Chair of Education
Program Director, Hematology/Oncology Fellowship
Pediatric Hematologist/Oncologist
Associate Professor of Pediatrics
Stewart Mackie, MD
Program Director, University of Connecticut
Pediatric Residency
Pediatric Cardiologist
Associate Professor of Pediatrics
Lauren Costigan, M.D.
Chicago Medical School of Rosalind
Franklin University of Medicine and Science
Boston University- Sargent College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
B.S. Human Physiology
After Graduation: Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellow at University of Connecticut/Connecticut Children’s
Lauren grew up in Barnstable, MA and completed her undergraduate studies in Human Physiology at Boston University. She then spent 2 years working at Dana Farber Cancer Institute before continuing her education at Rosalind Franklin University where she earned her medical degree. While in residency, Lauren and her husband, Jared, welcomed their son, Milo Logan, into the world. They live in West Hartford, CT with their black lab, Wrigley. She will be staying with Connecticut Children’s doing a Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship!
Andrea
Lizarazo,
D.O., M.M.S.
Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
University of South Florida
M.M.S. Medical Science
Florida Gulf Coast University
B.S. Biology
After Graduation: Private Practice
Andrea Lizarazo is from Miami Florida. She received her B.S. in Biology from Florida Gulf Coast University. She got her MMS in Medical Science from the University of South Florida. She spent two years as Adjunct Faculty at Miami Dade College teaching Anatomy & Physiology before starting medical school at Lake Erie College of Medicine. After graduation, Andrea will be working at Hartford Area Pediatrics.
Grace Schwantes, M.D.
Medical College of Wisconsin
St. Norbert College
B.S. Physical, Biology- Biomedical
After Graduation: Rural Primary Care
Grace is a born and raised Wisconsinite, and was super excited to move out East! Due to her roots, she is a huge fan of both beer and cheese, all varieties. In her free time, she loves to do random crafts, play with her bunny, turn off her brain and binge watch TV, and run (she says she is not fit or fast, but she does enjoy it!). She is a Packers fan, and was quite intimidated to be in a Patriots environment. Grace will be doing rural primary care in Minocqua, WI.
Kriti Badola, D.O.
New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine
University of Massachusetts Commonwealth Honors College
B.S. Microbiology
After Graduation: Pediatric Chief Resident at University of Connecticut/Connecticut Children’s
Kriti went to Umass Amherst for undergrad and NYITCOM for medical school. During her fourth year of medical school, she completed an elective here at Connecticut Children’s and knew it would be her top choice for residency. Through her time at Connecticut Children’s she found a surprising interest in acute care and is planning to apply to fellowship in pediatric emergency medicine. She is very excited to first stay another year as chief to support the resident class and continue to find ways to enhance the program.
Rebecca Basch, D.O.
Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Carolinas Campus
University of Central Florida
B.S. Health Sciences
After Graduation: Pediatric Critical Care Fellowship at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital
Becca, a Miami native, has spent the past several years advancing her medical training along the East Coast. She earned her medical degree in South Carolina and went on to complete her residency in Connecticut. She is excited to return to her hometown to begin her pediatric critical care fellowship at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital. Although she will deeply miss the amazing friends and mentors she found in New England, she looks forward to staying connected—and promises to visit often (just not in the winter months)
Nicholas Bhaskaran, D.O., M.B.S.
Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine of Midwestern University
Master of Biomedical Sciences
Midwestern University
Michigan State University
B.S. Human Biology
After Graduation: Pediatric Rheumatology Fellowship at the University of Minnesota
Nick was born and raised in Rochester, MN. He grew up playing sports and a big Michigan State fan. Nick went to Michigan State University for undergrad, where he majored in human biology. In his four years in-between college and medical school, Nick received a master’s in biomedical sciences and worked a year doing basic research at the NIH. If he is not working, He is probably running. Nick will be continuing his education at the University of Minnesota for a Pediatric Rheumatology Fellowship. He is grateful for his time here and will miss Connecticut Children’s!
Ana Maria Hernandez Botero, M.D.
Universidad Nacional de Colombia
After Graduation: Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Fellowship at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
Originally from Colombia, Ana was born in the small town of Barbosa, Santander, and raised in Bucaramanga. At the age of 17, she moved to Bogota to pursue medical school at the National University of Colombia, where she also completed her pediatric residency. Driven by a passion for innovation and discovery, she conducted basic science research in allergies as a research fellow at the Mayo Clinic. Deeply fascinated by the hematologic system and the complexities of cell signaling pathways in immunology, she has cultivated a career at the intersection of science and compassionate care. She finds purpose and fulfillment in building meaningful connections and serving children and their families—experiences that continue to inspire both her personal and professional growth. She is now continuing her training as a pediatric hematology/oncology fellow at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, Texas.
Melanie Byra, D.O.
Campbell University Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine
University of New England
B.S. Medical Biology
After Graduation: PICU Hospitalist
Melanie grew up in the North Shore of MA where she spent most of her childhood in Haverhill, before ultimately moving to Salisbury. She began her journey to become a pediatrician at the University of New England in Biddeford ME, where she studied Medical Biology with a minor in Art Therapy. Melanie then made my way down to NC for medical school at Campbell University SOM. Outside of medicine, Dr. Byra enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She is one of three sisters and a very proud soon to be Aunt! She also loves going to the beach, swimming, drawing, reading and spending time with animals of all kinds, but most importantly her cat, Kulah. Melanie is excited but will miss her Connecticut Children’s Family.
Timothy Counce, Jr., D.O., M.P.H. M.S.
University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine
M.S., Biomedical Science
Texas A&M University
Howard Payne University
B.S. Biochemistry
After Graduation: Pediatric Infectious Diseases Fellowship at the Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles
Timothy, but most people call him TJ grew up in the official BBQ Capital of Texas, Lockhart. He went to Howard Payne University where he earned a Bachelors in Biochemistry and Public Policy in the Honors College. TJ then went to Texas A&M and earned a Masters in Biomedical Science at the School of Veterinary Medicine, and then got his DO at the University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine. He is big into Drag Race, Star Wars, Star Trek, video games, seeing the sites, eating the foods, and reading for fun when he can. After graduation TJ will be continuing his education at the Children’s Hospital of LA for a Pediatric Infectious Disease Fellowship.
Elisabeth Ekman, D.O.
University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
Colby College
B.A. English
After Graduation: Pediatric Hematology and Oncology Fellowship at University of Connecticut/Connecticut Children’s Libby grew up in Andover, MA and knew she wanted to be a pediatrician from an early age. Before getting her medical degree, she worked with children in many settings, including teaching in schools, coaching sports, volunteering at programs for kids and in hospitals, and being a counselor at camp. She is a New Englander at heart and following her childhood in Massachusetts, spent several years at college and medical school in Maine. She has been glad to make Connecticut her home the last three years and is excited to spend the next three years here, too! She feels honored to get to continue to grow her career at Connecticut Children’s where she will complete fellowship in pediatric hematology and oncology.
Antoinette Farrell, M.D.
USF Health Morsani College of Medicine
University of Miami
B.A. Economics
After Graduation: Pediatric Endocrinology Fellowship at the University of San Diego
Toni grew up in the South Florida town of Hollywood, FL and stayed in SoFlo to attend the University of Miami, where she earned dual degrees in Microbiology & Immunology and Economics. She then spent a year in Chicago where she worked in an adult developmental disability care facility before moving back to Florida to attend the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine for her M.D. Toni then left Florida again to complete pediatric residency training at UConn/Connecticut Children’s, where she built long lasting friendships and became a hypoglycemia aficionado! She is excited to pursue her longtime dream of becoming a pediatric endocrinologist in her favorite city of San Diego!
Annina Giannuzzi, D.O.
New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine
Brigham Young University
B.S. Neuroscience
After Graduation: Pediatric Hospital Medicine Fellowship at University of Connecticut/Connecticut Children’s
Nina grew up on Long Island in Riverhead, NY. She then went to Utah where she studied neuroscience at Brigham Young University. After graduating, Nina moved back to Long Island where she spent some time working with kids as a summer camp counselor and doing research at a neurology practice prior to starting medical school at NYITCOM. Outside of medicine she enjoys reading, jigsaw puzzles, singing, and watching cheesy movies. After Graduation Nina will be staying at Connecticut Children’s for a fellowship in Pediatric Hospital Medicine. She is very excited to continue her education in CT.
Shanze Gilani, D.O.
Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine
New York University
B.A. Biology
After Graduation: Private Practice
Shanze is from New Jersey and attended New York University for undergrad where she majored in Biology and minored in American Sign Language and philosophy. She then studied medicine at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine located in Harlem, New York. In her free time, Shanze loves to dabble with every medium of arts and crafts known to mankind, trying new recipes, ice skating, exploring, and generally trying new things. After graduation Shanze will be starting her career at a private practice, S & A Pediatrics in New Jersey.
Sumita Manohari, M.D.
All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, India
MBBS
After Graduation: Private Practice
Sumita was born in Odisha, India, and grew up in various parts of the country as part of a military family. She earned her medical degree (MBBS) from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur and completed her Pediatric residency at PGIMER, Chandigarh. Seeking continued professional growth, she moved to the United States and has appreciated the opportunity to train within a new healthcare system—while also enjoying the charm of New England seasons. In her free time, Sumita enjoys exploring diverse cuisines, spending time in nature, watching comedy movies and curating playlists that blend both classic and contemporary music. After graduation, she will be joining a Federally Qualified Health Center in Los Angeles, California, as a Primary Care Pediatrician.
Paolyne Meza, D.O.
Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine
University of Nevada Las Vegas
B.S. Biological Sciences
After Graduation: Neonatology Fellow at University of Connecticut/Connecticut Children’s
Paolyne grew up in Las Vegas, Nevada where she went for undergrad at UNLV then went to Southern Utah for medical school. She spends a lot of my free time with her family. She also loves to read, bullet journal, ride her Peloton bike, travel, and drink wine. She is also a huge foodie – trying new restaurants is one of my favorite things to do! Paolyne will be continuing her education here at Connecticut Children’s as a Neonatology Fellow.
Genesis Michel, D.O., M.S.
Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine Drexel
M.S., Interdisciplinary Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences
The City College of New York, B.S. Biology
After Graduation: Pediatric Pulmonology Fellowship at Boston Children’s Hospital
Genesis grew up in New York City, where she completed her undergraduate studies at The City College of New York in Biology. She then went on to complete her master’s degree in Biological and Physical sciences at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine in Harlem, NY, followed by her DO degree at Touro College Middletown campus. She then left NY to complete her pediatric residency training at UCONN. Here she discovered her interest in rare pulmonary disease and severe asthma, especially as they affect underrepresented communities. She will continue to pursue her interest as a pulmonology fellow at Boston Children’s Hospital!
Katherine Murphy, M.D.
Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University
Skidmore College
B.A. Biology/Music
After Graduation: Pediatric Chief Resident at University of Connecticut/Connecticut Children’s
Katherine (Kate) Murphy grew up in Hudson, MA and received her undergraduate degree from Skidmore College, in Saratoga Springs, NY, where she double majored in Biology and Music (Flute performance). She then attended the Netter School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University in North Haven, CT. While she is certain that she wants to pursue a fellowship, her interests currently include Hematology & Oncology, Gastroenterology, ICU, and Emergency. Kate is also particularly interested in continuing to do research, as well. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, eating all types of food, playing games, exploring the outdoors, and “helping” her partner brew beer. Kate is excited to continue her time here at Connecticut Children’s becoming one of the Pediatric Chief Residents.
Risa Park, D.O.
Touro University Nevada College of Osteopathic Medicine
University of California, Davis
B.S. Biological Sciences
After Graduation: Private Practice
Risa was born in Los Angeles, California and raised in Walnut, California. She graduated from UC Davis with a B.S. in Biological Sciences with an emphasis in medical microbiology and a minor in Psychology. During her gap year, prior to medical school, she worked as an EMT and volunteered at a free clinic and at a children’s hospital. Risa enjoys traveling, trying new restaurants, doing crafts, and practicing her golf swings at the driving range. After the completion of residency Risa will begin her career in Primary Care!
Haya Qutob, D.O., M.S.
West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine
University of Toledo
M.S. Biological Sciences
University of Michigan
B.S. Biology and Biopsychology, Cognition and Neuroscience
After Graduation: Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Fellowship at University of Connecticut/Connecticut Children’s
Haya is a first-generation Syrian American born in Chicago, but raised in Ann Arbor, MI. Haya went to the University of Michigan for undergrad, where she majored in biology and biopsychology, and then went on to get a masters in biological sciences at the University of Toledo. For medical school, she attended the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine. Beyond working with kids, Haya has a passion for mentoring, research, and preventative medicine- especially for the underserved. In her free time, she enjoy working out, playing/watching basketball, traveling (I lived abroad for 6 years), concert going, and hanging out with my her younger brother. Haya will be staying at Connecticut Children’s for three more years to complete a fellowship in Pediatric Hematology Oncology. She is very excited to continue her education journey here!
Jessica Serventi-Gleeson, M.D., M.P.H.
Tufts University School of Medicine
M.P.H., Public Health-Health Services, Management and Policy
Tufts University
B.A. Public Health and Child Development
After Graduation: Pediatric Chief Resident at University of Connecticut/Connecticut Children’s
Born and raised in Boston, Jessie attended Tufts University for undergraduate studies where she majored in public health and child development. After college, Jessie worked with community health centers addressing disparities in care for women and children. She received her Master’s in public health, where she focused on health care policy and management, before beginning medical school at Tufts. Her professional interests include healthcare disparities, critical care, and health care policy. In her free time, she enjoys biking, reading, cooking, and playing with her dog, Charlie! Dr. Serventi- Gleeson will be continuing her time here at Connecticut Children’s for a Pediatric Chief Residency year!
Amanpreet Singh, M.D.
Drexel University College of Medicine
Monmouth University
B.S. Biology
After Graduation: Pediatric Hospital Medicine, Connecticut Children’s
Shawna grew up in Central New Jersey. She went to college at Monmouth University in NJ, where she studied Biology with a concentration in Molecular & Cellular Physiology. Shawna then moved to Philadelphia to attend Drexel University College of Medicine. Some of her favorite activities are hanging out with friends and family, dancing, eating, traveling, drawing, watching movies/TV, and watching sports. From relaxing on beaches to exploring different cities, she is always ready to go on an adventure! Shawna is grateful to all the amazing people she’s had the chance to work with at Connecticut Children’s who have helped her become the Doctor she is today.
Frederique Sirois, D.O.
University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
University of New Hampshire
B.S. Biomedical Science
After Graduation: Private Practice
Frederique (Freddie) is from Maine and completed her undergrad at the University of New Hampshire where she studied Biomedical Science before heading back home for medical school at the University of New England. You could say she is a New Englander for life! She grew up horseback riding and eventually volunteered at her local therapeutic riding barn, which allowed her to share one of her favorite hobbies with children of various disabilities and got Freddie interested in the field of pediatrics. Freddie enjoys any time spent outside, hiking, gardening, dancing, and traveling whenever possible. She is often found with ice cream in hand and looks forward to finding new ice cream shops! After graduation Dr. Sirois will be starting her career working in Primary Care.
Courtney Stark, D.O.
University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
Emmanuel College
B.S. Biology
After Graduation: Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition Fellowship at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia CourtneywasbornandraisedinTaunton,Massachusetts.SheobtainedherBachelorsofScienceinBiologyfromEmmanuel College in Boston prior to heading north to the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine where she earned her medical degree and met her now husband. After completing her Pediatric Residency through The University of Connecticut/Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, she is excited to start her fellowship in Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. She looks forward to finally living (slightly) closer to her military spouse, but will greatly miss the residency family she has made here at Connecticut Children’s.
Jenna Sugar, D.O.
Western University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific University of Michigan
B.S. Movement Science
After Graduation: Private Practice
Jenna grew up in Southern California and attended undergrad at the University of Michigan, where she studied Movement Science. From there she attended graduate school at the University of Pennsylvania and a year later decided to head back to Southern California for medical school at Western University of Health Sciences. Jenna is an avid sports fan and grew up playing club soccer. When she’s not cheering on the USWNT or Michigan Wolverines, she loves spending time hiking and listening to 70’s and 80’s rock. After completing residency Jenna will be starting her career joining Pro Health in Bristol, CT.
McKenna Tierney, D.O.
Nova Southeastern University Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine
Johns Hopkins University
B.A, Public Health Studies
After Graduation: Private Practice
McKenna grew up in Suffield, CT and attended Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD where she studied Public Health. After she graduated college, she moved to a small farm town in Guatemala for about two years where McKenna worked with the local health center as well as the state health department to coordinate sustainable health projects. She lived with a local family who taught her everything she knows about the Spanish language, Guatemalan culture and how to throw a party! Mckenna attended Nova Southeastern University in sunny Fort Lauderdale but decided to come back to Connecticut for residency. In her free time, she loves to travel as much as possible! McKenna loves to cook all types of cuisines and try new types of food. She loves to hike with her boyfriend (also from CT), try out local breweries and watch movies with their cute kitty. After graduation McKenna will be joining Glastonbury Pediatrics in CT.
Jacob Kelner, D.O. | Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine Fellowship Program
University of Connecticut Medical School
Pediatric Residency
Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine
D.O.
Elon University
Mathematics/Biochemistry
After Graduation: Neonatology Attending at Connecticut Children’s
Coby graduated from Elon University with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Mathematics. He then pursued his medical education at Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed his pediatric residency and neonatal-perinatal fellowship training at Connecticut Children’s in Hartford, CT, through the University of Connecticut School of Medicine. During his fellowship, he received additional training in point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) and investigated the use of lung POCUS to predict surfactant replacement for respiratory distress syndrome, which he presented locally, nationally, and internationally. He is extremely thankful for the opportunities provided to him at Connecticut Children’s and is excited to continue his career there as an attending neonatologist and the Director of Neonatal POCUS.
Nazifa Rahman, M.D. | Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine Fellowship Program
Mount Sinai Kravis Children’s Hospital
Pediatric Residency
Georgetown University School of Medicine
M.D.
Barnard College
B.A., Neuroscience and Behavior
After Graduation: Neonatology Attending at the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore
Nazifa grew up in New York and earned her bachelor’s degree in Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience from Barnard College. She attended medical school at Georgetown University and completed her pediatric residency at the Kravis Children’s Hospital at Mount Sinai in Manhattan. She is currently finishing a three-year fellowship in Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine at Connecticut Children’s and will soon join the Neonatology faculty at the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore in the Bronx. Her time at Connecticut Children’s has been both professionally and personally transformative, shaping her into the Neonatologist she aspires to be.
James Wiley, D.O. | Pediatric Cardiology Fellowship Program
University of Connecticut Medical School
Pediatric Residency
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
D.O.
Providence College
Global Studies/Spanish
After Graduation: Pediatric Critical Care Fellowship at the University of Virginia
James was born in Philadelphia, PA and moved to Connecticut in 3rd grade. He attended Providence College for undergrad where he double majored in Global Studies and Spanish with initial plans for an eventual career in business. He ended up working as a research assistant and program coordinator at the Children’s Center for Community Research (now the Asthma Center) at Connecticut Children’s. This fueled his desire to pursue a career in medicine prompting him to complete a postbacc at UConn. He attended Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine for medical school and then completed a pediatric residency here at Connecticut Children’s before staying here for pediatric cardiology fellowship. He will next be completing a pediatric critical care fellowship at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. In his spare time he is an avid music and sports fan (especially college basketball and EPL soccer). He is excited for the next chapter in his career but is sad to leave Connecticut Children’s after 6 years of training here.
Caroline Figgie, M.D. | Pediatric Endocrinology Fellowship Program
Case Western Reserve University/Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital
Pediatric Residency
Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
M.D.
Davidson College
B.S., Chemistry
After Graduation: Pediatric Endocrinologist
After growing up in Riverside, CT, Caroline graduated from Davidson College in North Carolina with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and minor in Economics. She then went on to pursue her medical school education at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH. She stayed in Cleveland for her Pediatrics residency at Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital, and then moved back to Connecticut to complete her Pediatric Endocrinology fellowship at Connecticut Children’s here in Hartford. As excited as she is to be graduating, she will also dearly miss her mentors, friends, and colleagues from the last three years, and wants to express her sincere gratitude for all of the time and effort they have spent helping her to grow as a physician and an endocrinologist. She hopes to continue her career with a Pediatric Endocrinology position near her family in the Connecticut/New York area, after a short break to indulge her love of travel.
Kathleen Felisca, M.D. | Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship Program
Yale New Haven Hospital
Pediatric Residency
New York Medical College
M.D.
Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education
B.S., Biomedical Sciences
After Graduation: Ultrasound Fellowship at Emory University/Children’s Hospital of Atlanta
Kathleen is a first-generation Haitian American from Queens, NY. She completed her pediatric residency at Yale–New Haven Hospital and has remained in Connecticut ever since. Her academic interests include injury prevention, drowning prevention, and investigating THC ingestions in the pediatric population. This summer, she will begin her Ultrasound Fellowship at Emory University and is excited to further integrate point-of-care ultrasound into her clinical practice to help expedite the care of critically ill children in the emergency department. Outside of work and academia, Kathleen enjoys reading fantasy and horror, going on light hikes, strength training, traveling, and watching great television. Kathleen is eternally grateful to all her mentors at Connecticut Children’s—especially Matt Laurich, Sharon Smith, John Brancato, Ruchika Jones, Carla Pruden, and Rahul Shah.
Meghan Wilson Frost, M.D., M.P.H. | Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship Program
Yale New Haven Hospital
Pediatric Residency
University of Connecticut School of Medicine
M.D.
Muhlenberg College
B.S., Neuroscience, B.A. Music
After Graduation: Pediatric Emergency Medicine Attending at Connecticut Children’s
Dr. Meghan Wilson Frost is a proud native of the nutmeg state and grew up in Cheshire, Connecticut. She attended Muhlenberg College, where she was able to cultivate her passions in neuroscience and music, earning a Dual BA/BS Degree. After college Meghan continued to work for a year as an EMT in Allentown, Pennsylvania before returning to Connecticut to pursue her Master of Public Health and subsequently her Doctorate of Medicine at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine. Meghan completed her residency at the Yale Pediatrics Residency Program in New Haven, Connecticut and the following year had the honor of being a Yale Pediatric Chief Resident. She returned to UCONN/Connecticut Children’s for pediatric emergency medicine fellowship and is elated to be living her ultimate career dream as an attending at Connecticut Children’s where she intends to continue to pursue her interests in evidence-based patient care as well as public health and injury prevention research. Meghan is fortunate to reside in her hometown with her husband (Jonathan), sons (William and Ryan), and cats (Pixie and Sam). After graduation Meghan is excited to spend more time with her supportive family and friends, as much time as possible outdoors, and playing music.
Sarah McHugh, M.D. | Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship Program (Emergency Medicine)
Baystate Medical Center
Pediatric Residency
University of Rochester School of Medicine
M.D.
SUNY Potsdam
Biology, Mathematics
After Graduation: Pediatric Emergency Medicine Attending at Baystate Medical Center and Emergency Medicine
Attending at Baystate Noble Hospital
Dr. McHugh grew up in upstate New York and attended the State University of New York at Potsdam for undergrad obtaining a B.S. in Biology and a B.A. in Mathematics. Her interest in medicine started in college, when she worked as a patient care technician in a community ED. After completing medical school at the University of Rochester, she went to UMass-Baystate Medical Center for her Emergency Medicine Residency and was a chief resident in her final year. She was excited to join the Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship at Connecticut Children’s in 2023. She has learned so much, and will be forever grateful for all the personal connections she has made with both patients and families, as well as colleagues. After completing fellowship, Dr. McHugh will care for both adult and pediatric ED patients, and split time between an academic center and a community emergency room. In her free time, she enjoys traveling and getting outdoors with her son, husband, and their two dogs.
Sydney Kuzoian, D.O. | Pediatric Gastroenterology Fellowship Program
Sidney Kimmel Medical College
Pediatric Residency
Kansas City University
D.O.
Florida State University
B.S., Exercise Science
After Graduation: Pediatric Gastroenterologist at CT Children’s
Sydney grew up locally in Newington, Connecticut. She attended Florida State University where she obtained a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science. She attended medical school at Kansas City University in Kansas City, Missouri. She then moved to Philadelphia and completed pediatric residency at Thomas Jefferson University/ Nemours Children’s Hospital, Delaware. She finally made her way back to Connecticut for Pediatric Gastroenterology fellowship and is thrilled to be staying on as faculty at Connecticut Children’s after graduation. She enjoys spending her free time with her husband Alex, son Elliot, dogs Toby and Frankie, and her local village of friends and family. She is endlessly grateful for their love and support throughout her many years of medical training.
Viven Solomon, D.O. | Pediatric Gastroenterology Fellowship Program
University of Connecticut School of Medicine
Pediatric Residency
New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine
D.O.
Florida State University
B.S., Biology
After Graduation: Pediatric Gastroenterologist at Hasbro Children’s at Brown University Health
Viven stayed at Connecticut Children’s for her pediatric residency and pediatric gastroenterology fellowship, and is now eager for the next step of being a practicing attending physician in pediatric gastroenterology at Hasbro Children’s at Brown University Health in Rhode Island. She has developed a passion in managing complicated GI conditions, including intestinal failure and inflammatory bowel disease which will be her primary focus. She is thankful for her time here but excited for the next chapter!
Shruthishree Sukumar, D.O. | Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Fellowship Program
The Children’s Hospital at Saint Peter’s University Hospital
Pediatric Residency
A.T. Still University of Health Sciences School of Osteopathic Medicine
D.O.
Drexel University
B.S., Biological Sciences
After Graduation: Pediatric Hematologist/Oncologist Attending at Stain Peter’s University Hospital in New Brunswick, NJ
Dr. Sukumar received her undergraduate degree from Drexel University and medical degree from A.T. Still University School of Medicine in Arizona. She completed her pediatric residency at Saint Peter’s University Hospital in New Brunswick, NJ. After graduation Dr. Sukumar is excited to be going back to NJ and work as an attending at Saint Peter’s University Hospital in New Brunswick, NJ. She is grateful for her time at Connecticut Children’s and will miss her team!
Laura Kvenvold, M.D. | Pediatric Infectious Diseases Fellowship Program
University of Massachusetts Medical School
Pediatric & Internal Medicine Residency
Tufts University School of Medicine
M.D.
Tufts University
B.S. Biology
After Graduation: Pediatric Infectious Diseases Attending and Medical Director of Infection Prevention at Connecticut Children’s and Infectious Diseases Attending at UConn John Dempsey Hospital
Laura Kvenvold grew up in the small apple-growing town of Harvard, Massachusetts. She loves New England and the autumn season and stayed in the area for her undergraduate and medical school education at Tufts University before moving to Western Massachusetts to complete a combined Medicine and Pediatrics residency at UMassBaystate. She finally crossed state lines for her combined Medicine and Pediatric Infectious Diseases fellowship at UConn and Connecticut Children’s where she fell in love with the people and the missions of both institutions and decided to stay! She has never forgotten that she was once told that her dream to practice both adult and pediatric medicine was impossible; she has proven that it is possible to do it all! She is thrilled that she will be practicing both pediatric and adult infectious diseases at Connecticut Children’s and UConn John Dempsey Hospital. When she’s not working, Laura can be found snuggling her two cats - fur-babies Finn and Jasper - while likely enjoying a good book, a documentary, or a puzzle.
Danielle Dougherty, M.D. | Pediatric Surgery Fellowship Program
University of Michigan, Surgery Critical Care (General Surgery Fellowship)
Michigan State University
Residency
University of Michigan Medical School
M.D.
University of Pennsylvania
Political Science, Economics and Minor in Hispanic Studies
After Graduation: Pediatric Surgeon at the University of Chicago
Dani was born and raised in New Jersey and went to college in Philadelphia. She spent time living in Chile and Botswana before attending medical school and residency in Michigan. She trained in surgical critical care, fetal surgery, and image-guided surgery before starting Pediatric Surgery Fellowship at Connecticut Children’s. After graduation, she is thrilled to become an attending pediatric surgeon at the University of Chicago.
Elizabeth Hughes, M.D. | Pediatric Surgery Research Fellowship Program
Lehigh Valley Health Network
General Surgery Residency
Loma Linda University School of Medicine
M.D.
Azusa Pacific University
Biochemistry; Oboe performance minor
After Graduation: Return to General Surgery Residency at Lehigh Valley Health Network
Elizabeth J. Hughes, MD is a General Surgery resident at Lehigh Valley Hospital in Allentown, PA, and her passion for Pediatric Surgery led to her position for the past 2 years as a Pediatric Surgery Research Fellow at UConn Health/ Connecticut Children’s. Her interests include esophageal atresia and global pediatric surgery. She will be returning to the Lehigh Valley this summer to complete her training in General Surgery, after which she will apply for a clinical fellowship in Pediatric Surgery.
Program Director
Stewart Mackie, M.D.
Associate Professor of Pediatrics Cardiology
Associate Program Director
Jennifer Haile, M.D.
Associate Professor of Pediatrics Primary Care
Associate Program Director
Emily Hogeland, M.D.
Assistant Professor of Pediatrics Hospital Medicine
Associate Program Director
Eric Hoppa, M.D.
Associate Professor of Pediatrics Emergency Medicine
Associate Program Director
Jonah Mandell, D.O., M.A. Assistant Professor of Pediatrics Primary Care
Associate Program Director
Sharon Smith, M.D. Professor of Pediatrics Emergency Medicine
Residency Program Coordinator
Crista Aresti
Associate Program Director
Sara Sanders, M.D. Assistant Professor of Pediatrics Critical Care
Residency Program Coordinator
Thalia Flores, B.S.
Resident Team Assistant
Jazzerae Morton
Resident Team Assistant
Sabra Nalubanga
Resident Team Assistant
Julius Nuwagaba, M.B.C.h.B.
Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine Fellowship Program Director
Jennifer Trzaski, M.D.
Associate Professor of Pediatrics
Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine
Pediatric Endocrinology
Fellowship Associate Program Director
Christine Trapp, M.D.
Assistant Professor of Pediatrics
Endocrinology and Diabetes
Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine Fellowship Associate Program Director
Usha Prasad, D.O., M.P.H.
Assistant Professor of Pediatrics
Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine
Pediatric Gastroenterology Fellowship Program Director
Katherine Baldwin, M.D.
Assistant Professor of Pediatrics
Digestive Diseases, Hepatology and Nutrition
Pediatric Cardiology Fellowship Program Director
Alex Golden, M.D., M.M.M.
Associate Professor of Pediatrics
Pediatric Cardiology
Pediatric Gastroenterology Fellowship Associate Program Director
Bella Zeisler, M.D.
Associate Professor of Pediatrics
Digestive Diseases, Hepatology and Nutrition
FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION
Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship Program Director
V. Matt Laurich, M.D.
Associate Professor of Pediatrics Emergency Medicine
Pediatric Hematology/ Oncology Fellowship Program Director
Associate Chair of Education
Andrea Orsey, M.D.
Associate Professor of Pediatrics
Hematology/Oncology
Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship Associate Program Director
Ruchika Jones, M.D.
Assistant Professor of Pediatrics Emergency Medicine
Pediatric Hospital Medicine Fellowship Program Director
Allyson McDermott, M.D., MACM
Assistant Professor of Pediatrics Hospital Medicine
Pediatric Endocrinology Fellowship Program Director
Sunitha Sura, M.D.
Assistant Professor of Pediatrics
Endocrinology and Diabetes
Pediatric Infectious Diseases Fellowship Program Director
Hassan El Chebib, M.D.
Assistant Professor of Pediatrics
Infectious Diseases and Immunology
Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery Fellowship Program Director
Mark Lee, M.D.
Associate Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery Orthopaedics
Pediatric Otolaryngology Fellowship Program Director
Amy Hughes, M.D. Assistant Professor of Clinical Otolaryngology Otolaryngology
Pediatric Surgery Fellowship Associate Program Director
Jim Healy, M.D., M.H.S.,
F.A.C.S.
Associate Professor of Surgery
General Surgery
Pediatric Pulmonology Fellowship Program Director
Melanie Sue Collins, M.D.
Associate Professor of Pediatrics Pulmonary Medicine
Fellowship Program Coordinator
Elizabeth Anderson, M.P.H. Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Pediatric Endocrinology
Fellowship Program Coordinator
Alexxus Hall, M.S.
Pediatric Cardiology, Pediatric Gastroenterology, Orthopaedic Surgery
Pediatric Surgery Fellowship Program Director
EVP Surgeon in Chief
Christine Finck, M.D., F.A.C.S
Professor of Surgery General Surgery
Fellowship Program Coordinator
Brittany Valentine, B.S.
Pediatric Hematology/ Oncology, Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Pediatric Hospital Medicine
Pediatric Surgery Fellowship Associate Program Director
Richard Weiss, M.D.,
F.A.C.S., F.A.A.P.
Associate Professor of Surgery, Pediatrics, and Emergency Medicine General Surgery
Fellowship Program Coordinator II
Allison Williams, B.A., C-TAGME
Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Pediatric Pulmonology, Pediatric Surgery
Chairman
Juan C. Salazar
M.D., M.P.H. Professor Physician-in-Chief
Assistant Dean for Academic Affairs
Dr. Christine Rader, M.D., F.A.C.S Assistant Professor of Pediatrics
GRADUATE MEDICAL EDUCATION ADMINISTRATION
Pediatric Hematology/ Oncology Fellowship Program Director Associate Chair of Education Andrea Orsey, M.D. Associate Professor of Pediatrics Hematology/Oncology
Vice President, Academic Affairs & Research Institute
Annamarie Beaulieu, M.B.A., M.P.H
Administrative Director, Medical Education
Marianne Custer, B.S., C-TAGME
Senior Advisor to the Chair
Edwin L. Zalneraitis, M.D. GME Professor Emeritus of Pediatrics & Neurology University of Connecticut School of Medicine
Manager, Graduate Medical Education
Kierstyn Connors, B.A., C-TAGME
Pediatric Otolaryngology
Resident Awards for Faculty and Staff
Pediatric House Officer Award for Excellence in the Delivery of Health Care
Recipients: Dakota Michaud & Erin Loiacono
Award for Excellence in Nursing
Recipient: Gwen Beaudoin
Outstanding Contribution to Residency Program
Recipient: Crista Aresti & Thalia Flores
R. Timothy Brown Faculty Award for Excellence in Teaching in an Affiliated Pediatric Field
Recipient: Nicole Murray, M.D.
Douglas H. MacGilpin Community Physician Award for Recognition of Outstanding Role Model
Recipient: Andrew Carlson, M.D.
Timothy W. Kelly Award for Excellence in Teaching in Acute Care
Recipient: Jessica Winters, M.D.
Excellence in Teaching Subspecialty, Faculty Award
Recipient: Hassan El Chebib, M.D.
Excellence in Teaching, Faculty Award
Recipient: Emily Hogeland, M.D.
Milton Markowitz Award for Outstanding Contribution to House Staff Education and Career Development
Recipient: Emily Hogeland, M.D.
Leon Chameides Lifetime Achievement Award
Outstanding Leadership in the Training and Education of Pediatricians and in the Care of Connecticut’s Children
Recipient: Jeffrey Hyams, M.D.
Resident to Fellow Role Model
Recipients: Danielle Dougherty, M.D. & Sydney Kuzoian, D.O.
Fellow Professionalism & Teaching Awards
Fellow Professionalism Award
Recipient: Sarah McHugh, M.D.
Fellow Teaching Award
Recipient: Laura Kvenvold, M.D.
Resident and Fellow Research Awards
Elisabeth Ekman, D.O.
“Improving Utilization Metrics of Medication Historians in Inpatient Units with PDSA Initiatives”
Akshaya Sekar, D.O.
“Medicaid Trends in Stimulants vs. Non-Stimulants Prescribed for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)”
Caroline Figgie, M.D.
“Weight bias internalization in youth with Type 1 diabetes mellitus: potential associations with HbA1c and disordered eating behaviors”
Surabhi Khasgiwala, M.D.
“Interplay Between Endogenous Glycan Fermentation and Klebsiella Pathogenicity in the Intestinal Lumen”
Dear Pediatric Residents and Fellows,
Congratulations to each of you on your continued hard work and success!
I know I don’t have to tell our pediatric trainees, and all who meet Dr. Juan Salazar, how special, kind, and wonderful he truly is, you already know. But I’d like to share how grateful and lucky we have been at UConn School of Medicine to have had Dr. Salazar as part of our UConn family for nearly three decades, leading the way forward in the field of pediatrics academically, clinically, and in exciting research advances.
Professor Salazar first joined UConn Health as a pediatric resident, served prestigiously as chief resident, and later joined our faculty full-time as a pediatric infectious disease expert. In 2013, he began his strong leadership as chair of the Department of Pediatrics, its large faculty fleet at Connecticut Children’s, and overseeing the training of medical students, pediatric residents, and fellows. He also served as director of the Pediatric and Youth HIV Program.
In addition to his dedicated work as a compassionate and skilled pediatric infectious disease expert, Dr. Salazar is an internationally acclaimed physicianscientist and innovative NIH-funded researcher. He always made us UConn proud with his scientific studies and clinical trials across pediatric HIV, Lyme disease, glycogen storage disease, and for a NIH-funded vaccine for syphilis.
In fact, Dr. Salazar and colleagues at our Spirochetal Research laboratories impressively developed a groundbreaking first-of-its-kind vaccine for syphilis.
While I am sad to see Dr. Salazar departing from UConn, I am pleased that he is heading to an excellent opportunity as a new, exciting part of his journey. We sincerely thank Dr. Salazar for his public service and his incredible leadership, clinical care, and research innovations he has made for Connecticut, countless pediatric patients, our institution, and also producing the next generation of pediatricians.
We wish Dr. Salazar the best personally and professionally at Vanderbilt. He has made a difference and left an indelible mark upon both Connecticut and UConn.
Sincerely,
Dr. Bruce T. Liang Dean, UConn School of Medicine
A Tribute to Dr. Juan Salazar
Chair, Department of Pediatrics & Physician-in-Chief, Connecticut Children’s
Dear Graduates,
As we celebrate your accomplishments and look forward to the bright futures ahead, it is also a moment to honor a remarkable figure who has helped shape the path that brought many of you here—Dr. Juan Salazar.
Dr. Salazar’s journey with us began as a pediatric resident at UConn, where he served as chief resident and laid the foundation for a career of exceptional service and leadership. Since joining our faculty in 1998 as a pediatric infectious disease expert, and especially since taking the helm as Chair of the Department of Pediatrics and Physician-in-Chief of Connecticut Children’s in 2013, Dr. Salazar has led with vision, heart, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
A tireless educator, Dr. Salazar has been instrumental in shaping our training programs for medical students, residents, and fellows. His passion for mentorship and education has left a lasting imprint on generations of pediatricians. Many of you have experienced firsthand his thoughtful guidance, deep compassion, and dedication to your growth—not just as clinicians, but as human beings.
Dr. Salazar has always made us proud—with his science, his service, and his steadfast belief in the mission of our institution. As he prepares to leave
Connecticut Children’s, we pause to recognize his legacy. His compassion, thoughtfulness, and unwavering belief in the power of academic medicine will continue to inspire us for years to come.
To our graduates: may you carry forward the spirit of excellence, service, and innovation that Dr. Salazar exemplifies. And to Dr. Salazar: thank you—for everything.
With deep respect and gratitude,
Jim Shmerling, DHA, FACHE President & CEO
THANK YOU AND CONGRATULATIONS to all of our 2025 Pediatric Resident and Pediatric Surgical and Subspecialty Fellow Graduates!