Commencement 2024: Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine Ceremony • May 11 • 3 p.m.

UNIVERSITY

OF MIAMI

COMMENCEMENT 2024

LEONARD M. MILLER SCHOOL OF MEDICINE

MAY 11 • 3 p.m.

UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI

COMMENCEMENT 2024

LEONARD M. MILLER SCHOOL OF MEDICINE MAY 11 • 3 p.m

Commencement Marshals

Grand Marshal Hilit Mechaber, M.D. ’95 Senior Associate Dean for Student Affairs

Faculty Marshal

Hansel Tookes, M.P.H. ’09, M.D. ’14 Associate Professor of Infectious Diseases

Student Marshal Gauri Agarwal, M.D. ’00 Associate Dean for Curriculum

Hooders

Alberto Caban-Martinez, D.O., M.P.H., Ph.D. ’11 M.D./M.P.H. Program Deputy Director

Amar Deshpande, M.D. ’02 Associate Dean for Medical Education/Administration

Paul Mendez, M.D. Associate Professor of Medicine Director, Medicine as a Profession Course

Sabrina Taldone, M.D., M.B.A. ’15 Co-Director, Medicine as a Profession Course

Academic Procession*

Convocation Opening*

Commencement Program

University of Miami Commencement Band

Henri R. Ford, M.D., M.H.A. Dean and Chief Academic Officer, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine

The National Anthem* Doctor’s Note

Invocation* Rabbi Jason Cook Jewish Chaplain, University of Miami

Abdul Hamid Samra, Ph.D. Muslim Chaplain, University of Miami

Adjunct Professor, College of Engineering

Father Richard Vigoa Catholic Chaplain, University of Miami

Welcome Julio Frenk, M.D., M.P.H., Ph.D. President

Introduction of Presiding Trustee

Guillermo Prado, M.S. ’00, Ph.D. ’05

Interim Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost

Presentation of Honorary Degree Recipient Christopher Chen, B.S. ’97, M.D. ’00

Christopher J.L. Murray, M.D., D.Phil. Member, Board of Trustees

Doctor of Science, honoris causa

Advice to Graduates

Christopher J.L. Murray, M.D., D.Phil. Director, Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation Professor and Chair, Department of Health Metrics Sciences, University of Washington

Conferral of Medical Degrees President Frenk Dean Ford

Diploma Distribution

Introduction of Student Speaker

Latha Chandran, M.D., M.P.H., M.B.A. ’22 Executive Dean for Education

Alessia Fornoni, M.D., Ph.D. Associate Director, Medical Scientist Training Program

Jeffrey S. Miller, B.A. ’84 Co-Founder, Krillion Ventures Board Member, The Miller Foundation

Student Address Krisna Scarlett Maddy, M.D. ’24, M.S. ’24

Administration of Physician’s Oath Dean Ford

Medical Alumni Association Welcome Maria Del Pilar Gutierrez, B.S. ’84, M.D. ’90 President, Medical Alumni Association

Alma Mater* Doctor’s Note

Recessional*

University of Miami Commencement Band

*If possible, please stand for these portions of the program. At the conclusion of the ceremony, the audience should remain standing until the platform party has left the Watsco Center.

R. FORD

Dear Students,

You are now at the doorstep of your future, ready to cross the threshold into unparalleled opportunities as health care leaders and providers. As graduates of the Miller School of Medicine, you are poised to transform medicine in ways large and small. We couldn’t be prouder of what you have achieved here, and I trust you feel prepared and inspired to embark on this extraordinary journey.

Thanks to your perseverance as students, your compassion and dedication to medicine, and the education you received through our NextGenMD curriculum, you are stepping into the rewarding, yet complex, field of health care with a wealth of knowledge and experience. You now carry the awesome responsibility of alleviating human suffering, discovering life-changing treatments, and improving the health of humanity. As you begin your residency training, I urge you to continue to exhibit compassion, integrity, tenacity, and an unwavering commitment to the pursuit of excellence and service to others.

You have trained at one of the preeminent medical schools in the nation. The Miller School is anchored by groundbreaking research and an academic experience that is a magnet for the best and brightest students. The class of 2027 is the most competitive one in our history, with an average GPA of 3.8 and an average MCAT of 515. We remain No. 1 in National Institutes of Health funding among Florida medical schools, with $175 million in research grants. Our physician-scientists are defining the future of medicine, and seven of our programs are ranked among the top 25 nationally for NIH funding.

While you can be proud of the Miller School’s many achievements, we are prouder still of the grit and talent that bring you to this momentous occasion. The faculty and staff of the Miller School join your family and friends to express our respect and heartfelt congratulations for your exceptional achievements. You represent the next generation of University of Miami physicians, and I know you will carry that legacy with distinction.

As you take the physician’s oath on this spectacular day, consider your responsibility to your patients—marshal your skills, talent, and compassion to protect their health and improve their lives. You have received the finest training and are fully equipped with the necessary tools to help define the future of medicine and improve the lives of all those you serve.

Wherever your career takes you, please know that your Miller School of Medicine family will always be here for you.

Congratulations!

Henri R. Ford, M.D., M.H.A. Dean and Chief Academic Officer University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine

HENRI

To the Class of 2024,

Congratulations! You stand ready to begin your career in medicine. In 1979, I reached the same stage of life, but I realize that your own experiences position you to serve the medical profession uniquely. Throughout your academic journey, I have witnessed your resilience in the face of several global crises.

Times of crisis reveal our character. Against that backdrop, you have demonstrated that you are capable of making short-term sacrifices for long-term goals and that you are willing to look at the bigger picture. Yours is the generation whose commitment to fairness and kindness, to civic engagement and mutual responsibility, and to innovation and creativity will allow us to emerge from this time better than we were before. You have exhibited adaptability and the characteristics of a true ’Cane.

We know that the Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine and the rest of the University of Miami have widened your horizons and helped you grow personally, professionally, and as a citizen of the world.

You were afforded rigorous instruction in the classroom, research laboratory, clinical setting, and the community—while confronting unexpected challenges and welcoming rewarding opportunities. This is a time to feel pride in your accomplishments and positive anticipation for what lies ahead.

As we approach our centennial in 2025, the University is taking strategic steps to gain a global leadership position. During the celebration of this institutional milestone, you will be ascending to the prime of your practice. I know that you will be successful. I wish you the best and look forward to keeping in touch. The world needs you, your skills, and your compassion—now, more than ever.

Sincerely,

Julio Frenk, M.D., M.P.H., Ph.D. President, University of Miami

JULIO FRENK

Honorary Degree Recipient

Commencement Speaker

CHRISTOPHER J.L. MURRAY

Director, Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation

Professor and Chair, Department of Health Metrics Sciences

University of Washington

Christopher Murray’s fascination with health began when he was just 10, at a small hospital his parents founded in Africa. When his father, an internist, and mother, a microbiologist, brought their family to Diffa in southeast Niger to establish the local hospital, Murray noticed that people encountered and battled different diseases than those in the United States. He wondered why.

By the time his family left Africa, Murray recognized that their impact on global health was limited, and a complex, more challenging question emerged.

“How do you make bigger, longer-lasting changes?”

As Murray studied biology as an undergraduate at Harvard University, earned his D.Phil. in international health economics as a Rhodes scholar at Oxford University in 1987, and, returning to Harvard, earned his M.D. in 1991, his understanding of health expanded, but the question he first asked at the age of 10 returned.

“How do you make a big difference?”

A physician, health economist, and founding director of the independent Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) at the University of Washington (UW), Murray has been striving to answer that question ever since by developing innovative health assessment methods, advancing research integrity, and bridging the science-policy divide.

For his unyielding dedication to improving global health through rigorous assessment methods and scientific inquiry, Christopher J.L. Murray is receiving a Doctor of Science, honoris causa

While at Harvard, where he was a member of the Population and International Health faculty, Murray and Australian public health expert Alan Lopez developed the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) measures. These measures, which quantify health lost to disease, injury, and risk factors by age, sex, and geography over time, revolutionized large-scale health evaluation by drilling down past mortality rates to examine the broader impact of illness. By examining more than death, researchers had a more realistic look at people’s lives and health.

As Murray moved to the World Health Organization (WHO) to lead the Evidence and Information for Policy Cluster, back to

Harvard to direct the Initiative for Global Health and the Center for Population and Development Studies, then on to the University of Washington, where he launched IHME in 2007 and UW’s Department of Health Metrics Sciences in 2018, his scope expanded but his rigorous approach remained the same.

“Very simply, health metrics is about figuring out what works and what doesn’t work,” he said as he assumed the helm of IHME at the behest of University of Miami President Julio Frenk, then chair of the IHME Board of Directors and a former WHO and Harvard colleague of Murray’s.

As the COVID-19 pandemic swept the globe in 2020, the U.S. and much of the rest of the world relied on the IHME as a dependable and trusted source of evidence to figure out what worked and what didn’t.

The institute, which collaborates with a network of 10,000 researchers in 156 countries who evaluate nearly 300,000 data sources, quickly tailored a modeling approach to track and predict the pandemic’s spread and impact, and the effectiveness of policy interventions. Known as the “Chris Murray model” in White House media briefings, it was called “America’s most influential coronavirus model” by The Washington Post.

Murray is a member of the National Academy of Medicine and a co-recipient of the John Dirks Canada Gairdner Global Health Award. He has published more than 500 journal articles and written or edited 16 books.

For his relentless pursuit of scientific precision and lifelong dedication to improving global health, the University of Miami is proud to honor Dr. Christopher J.L. Murray.

Class of 2024 Graduates

Grant I. Akalonu, M.D.

Family Medicine—Mercy Health – Anderson Hospital, OH

B.A., 2017, City University of New York

Herbert H. Lehman College

Gabriela Eden Aklepi, M.D.

Medicine-Pediatrics—Baylor College of Medicine, TX

B.S., 2020, University of Miami

Abdurrahman Al-Awady, M.D.

Surgery-Preliminary—Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, PA

B.S., 2019, Florida State University

Matthew Brian Alonso, M.D., M.P.H.

Internal Medicine—Vanderbilt University Medical Center, TN

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2019, Florida State University

Cody Bruer Andreoni, M.D.

Emergency Medicine—Thomas Jefferson University, PA

B.S., 2018, University of Miami

Nicholas Benjamin Wheeler Balardi, M.D. Anesthesiology—UC Davis Medical Center, CA

B.S., 2017, University of California, Davis

Haley Marie Barefoot, M.D., M.P.H.

Surgery-Preliminary—University of Kentucky Medical Center, KY

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

M.S., 2018, North Carolina State University

B.A., 2016, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Rebecca Libby Barnett, M.D., M.P.H.

Obstetrics-Gynecology—Case Western/University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, OH

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.A., 2017, Cornell University

Maryjo Bekhash, M.D.

Transitional—NCH Healthcare System, FL Anesthesiology—McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University, IL

B.S., 2019, University of Miami

Gianna Bello, M.D., M.P.H.

General Surgery—Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, NJ

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2018, University of North Carolina Wilmington

Class of 2024 Graduates

Kelley N. Benck, M.D., M.P.H.

Thoracic Surgery—University of Southern California, CA

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2016, Gonzaga University

Raymond Phillip Bennett, M.D.

Pediatrics—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

B.S., 2020, Andrews University

Maria Camila Bernal, M.D.

Family Medicine—Florida International

University-Baptist Health South Florida, FL

B.A., 2020, University of Miami

Sara Beshara, M.D.

Pediatrics—University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, FL

B.S., 2019, University of California, Los Angeles

Georgia Biazus Soares, M.D.

Medicine-Preliminary—University of Miami

Miller School of Medicine/Holy Cross, FL

Dermatology—University of South Florida

Morsani College of Medicine, FL

B.H.S., 2019, University of Florida

Brittany Jordanne Blake, M.D.

Psychiatry—University of Florida College of Medicine, FL

B.S., 2020, University of Florida

Melissa Katrina Blake, M.D.

Pediatrics—Boston Children’s Hospital, MA

M.S., 2020, Florida Atlantic University

B.S., 2017, University of South Florida

Breanna Behnaz Boggan, M.D.

Internal Medicine—Inova Fairfax Hospital, VA

B.S., 2018, University of Maryland

Mikayla Mary Bowen, M.D., M.P.H.

Medicine-Pediatrics—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2019, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Jordan Adonis Brooks, M.D., J.D.

J.D., 2024, University of Miami

M.P.H., 2018, University of Pittsburgh

B.A., 2013, Kenyon College

Class of 2024 Graduates

John Michael Brown, M.D.

Psychiatry—Piedmont Macon Medical Center, GA

B.S., 2018, University of South Florida

Lizeth Joann Caldera, M.D.

Medicine-Preliminary—Memorial Healthcare System, FL

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

M.S., 2018, Barry University

B.S., 2010, Florida International University

Natasha Cox Cammer, M.D., M.P.H.

Medicine-Preliminary—Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai New York City Health+Hospitals/ Elmhurst, NY

Anesthesiology—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2018, University of Miami

Osmay Cardoso, M.D.

Transitional/Radiology—Emory University School of Medicine, GA

Radiology-Diagnostic—Emory University School of Medicine, GA

B.S., 2019, Florida International University

Charles Joseph Cash, M.D.

General Surgery—NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/ Weill Cornell Medical Center, NY

B.S., 2019, Loyola University Maryland

Julia Cavati De Abreu, M.D.

Emergency Medicine—Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Morningside, NY

B.A., 2019, Florida International University

Austin K. Choi, M.D.

Pathology—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

Three-Year Accelerated M.D. Program, 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2012, Syracuse University

Seraphina Yau-Chong Choi, M.D.

Transitional—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Holy Cross, FL

Radiation Oncology—University of Southern California, CA

B.A., 2020, University of Miami

Millie Chokshi, M.D.

Medicine-Preliminary—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Holy Cross, FL

Radiology-Diagnostic—Maimonides Medical Center, NY

B.S., 2020, University of Miami

Siri Choragudi, M.D.

Transitional—Baylor Scott & White All Saints Medical Center, TX

B.S., 2019, University of Miami

Class of 2024 Graduates

Connor Blake Christensen, M.D., M.P.H.

Anesthesiology—University of Alabama Medical Center, AL

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2019, Utah Valley University

Brianna Conte, M.D.

Transitional—University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School, TX

Radiation Oncology—Mayo Clinic, MN

B.S., 2019, Villanova University

Jean Robert Corvington, M.D.

Transitional—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Holy Cross, FL

Anesthesiology—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

B.S., 2019, University of Florida

Alyssa Amber Cruz, M.D.

Psychiatry—University of Central Florida/HCA Florida Healthcare, FL

B.S., 2018, University of Miami

Tyler Andrew Cunningham, M.D., Ph.D.

Pediatrics/Scientist Development—UPMC, PA

Ph.D., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2014, University of Florida

Victoria Ann Dahl, M.D.

Plastic Surgery (Integrated)—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

B.A., 2020, University of Washington

Pooja Dave, M.D., M.P.H.

Surgery-Preliminary—Cleveland Clinic Foundation, OH

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2018, University of Miami

Lauren Elizabeth de la Parte, M.D.

General Surgery—Mass General Brigham and Women’s Hospital, MA

M.S., 2015, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, UK

B.A., 2014, Vanderbilt University

Joseph Vincent Deshan, M.D., M.P.H. Family Medicine—Christiana Care, DE

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2020, University of Alabama

Henson Destiné, M.D.

Orthopaedic Surgery—University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, PA

B.S., 2018, University of Miami

Class of 2024 Graduates

Christian Alexander Diaz, M.D.

Medicine-Preliminary—Cleveland Clinic Florida, FL

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

B.S., 2019, University of Florida

Pedro Orlando Diaz Jr., M.D., M.B.A.

Internal Medicine—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

M.B.A., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2018, University of Miami

Gabrielle DiBartolomeo, M.D.

Medicine-Preliminary—Cleveland Clinic Florida, FL

B.A., 2012, Florida International University

Grace Dima, M.D.

Family Medicine—University of Michigan Hospital, MI

B.S., 2020, Miami University Oxford

Zachary James Donato, M.D., M.P.H.

Orthopaedic Surgery—Geisinger Health System, PA

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2018, Emory University

Christopher Andreas Dorizas, M.D.

Internal Medicine—Zucker School of MedicineNorthwell, NY

B.S., 2019, University of Miami

Courtney Dowell-Esquivel, M.D.

Psychiatry—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

B.S., 2018, University of Florida

Sarah Antoinette Dozil, M.D.

Internal Medicine—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

B.A., 2018, University of Pennsylvania

Matthew Drewes, M.D., M.P.H.

Transitional/Radiology—West Virginia University School of Medicine, WV

Radiology-Diagnostic—West Virginia University School of Medicine, WV

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

M.S., 2020, Brigham Young University

B.S., 2018, Brigham Young University

Sarah Marie Eaton, M.D.

Pediatrics—Yale New Haven Hospital, CT

B.S., 2014, University of Florida

Class of 2024 Graduates

Malika Michelle Elmengad, M.D. Anesthesiology—Los Robles Health System, CA

B.S., 2019, University of Miami

Shaheen Emami, M.D., M.P.H.

Emergency Medicine—University of Southern California, CA

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2020, University of California, Davis

Federico Nicolas Erhart, M.D., M.P.H.

Psychiatry—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2019, Miami Dade College

Uchechukwu Chibuzo Ezeh, M.D. Otolaryngology—Stanford Health Care, CA

M.S., 2019, Eastern Virginia Medical School

B.A., 2017, Cornell University

Nedi Ferekides, M.D., M.P.H. Internal Medicine—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2020, University of Florida

Jessica Nicole Forman, M.D., M.P.H. Pediatrics—MedStar Georgetown University Hospitals, DC

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.A., 2018, Washington University

Nidhi Gajakas, M.D.

Family Medicine—Scripps Mercy Hospital, CA

B.S., 2020, University of Miami

Ryan Alexander Gallo, M.D., Ph.D. Ophthalmology—Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, IL

Ph.D., 2024, University of Miami

B.A., 2014, Johns Hopkins University

Angela Elizabeth Gallucci, M.D. Internal Medicine—Christiana Care, DE B.S., 2019, University of Miami

Dalton Akeim George, M.D., M.P.H. Pediatrics—Children’s National Medical Center, DC

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2019, Duke University

Class of 2024 Graduates

Miriyam Ghali, M.D., M.B.A.

Orthopaedic Surgery—University of Chicago Medical Center, IL

M.B.A., 2024, University of Miami

B.A., 2019, Columbia University

Alexander Ross Gibstein, M.D., M.B.A.

Plastic Surgery (Integrated)—Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital, NY

M.B.A., 2024, University of Miami

B.A., 2019, University of Pennsylvania

Neha Pradyumna Godbole, M.D., M.P.H.

Internal Medicine—New York University Grossman School of Medicine, NY

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2018, Northeastern University

Daniel Alexander Gomez, M.D., M.P.H. Obstetrics-Gynecology—Tufts Medical Center, MA

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2018, University of Miami

Luis Gerardo Gonzalez Anguiar, M.D., M.P.H.

Family Medicine—University of Alabama College of Community Health Sciences, AL

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.A., 2019, Berea College

Ajay Govindaraj, M.D., M.P.H.

Psychiatry—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2017, University of Central Florida

Jessica Rachel Griff, M.D., M.B.A.

Transitional—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Holy Cross, FL

Radiology-Diagnostic—New York University

Grossman School of Medicine, NY

M.B.A., 2024, University of Miami

B.A., 2020, University of Pennsylvania

Claire Grosgogeat, M.D.

Internal Medicine—University of Colorado School of Medicine, CO

B.S., 2020, Boston College

Akshata Gunda, M.D., M.A.I.A.

General Surgery—HCA Florida JFK Hospital/ University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, FL

M.A.I.A., 2024, University of Miami

B.A., 2019, University of Miami

Gaurav Gupta, M.D.

General Surgery—University of Nebraska Medical Center, NE

B.S., 2020, University of Miami

Class of 2024 Graduates

Mathilde Marie Hainaut, M.D., M.P.H.

Pediatrics—NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/ Columbia University Irving Medical Center, NY

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2018, McGill University

Sophie Helen Harris, M.D.

Family Medicine—Kaiser Permanente Woodland Hills Medical Center, CA

B.A., 2017, Pitzer College

Grace Thanh-Thuy Hasell, M.D.

Family Medicine—University of California, Irvine

Medical Center, CA

B.A., 2018, University of Miami

Jean Marie Henry, M.D.

Psychiatry—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

Three-Year Accelerated M.D. Program, 2024, University of Miami

M.S., 2021, Georgetown University

B.A., 2020, Vanderbilt University

Samantha McKenzie Herbert, M.D.

Medicine-Preliminary—Santa Clara Valley

Medical Center, CA

Dermatology—University of New Mexico School of Medicine, NM

M.S., 2017, Tulane University

B.S., 2015, University of California, Santa

Barbara

Melissa Hernandez, M.D.

Psychiatry—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

B.S., 2016, Florida International University

Brooke Elise Hobbs, M.D.

Family Medicine—Sutter Medical Center of Santa Rosa, CA

B.S., 2016, Westmont College

Sharon Lee Hsieh, M.D., M.P.H.

Transitional—Northeast Georgia Medical Center, GA

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation—Emory University School of Medicine, GA

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2018, Emory University

Melissa Ann Huberman, M.D.

Child Neurology—Duke University Medical Center, NC

B.S., 2020, University of Miami

Lauren N. Hucko, M.D., M.P.H.

Medicine-Preliminary—Bascom Palmer Eye Institute/University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, FL

Ophthalmology—Bascom Palmer Eye Institute/ University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, FL

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.A., 2020, Washington University

Class of 2024 Graduates

Pia I. Iribarren, M.D.

Internal Medicine—University of Washington

Affiliated Hospitals, WA

MASDG, 2018, New York University

B.A., 2016, New York University

Sarah Marie Jacobs, M.D.

Transitional/Anesthesiology—Santa Clara-Stanford Health Care, CA

Anesthesiology—Stanford Health Care, CA

M.A., 2020, Loyola Marymount University

B.S., 2018, Duke University

Alexis Kimberling Jones, M.D., M.P.H.

General Surgery—Yale New Haven Hospital, CT

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2018, University of Michigan

Priyashma Joshi, M.D., M.P.H.

General Surgery—NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center, NY

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.A., 2019, University of Virginia

Ryan Jung, M.D.

Orthopaedic Surgery—University of Texas Medical School, TX

B.S., 2010, University of Arizona

Michael Alexander Kaiser, M.D. Medicine-Preliminary—Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, NH

Dermatology—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

B.A., 2018, Dartmouth College

Varun Kanumuri, M.D.

Radiology-Diagnostic—Aventura-HCA Healthcare, FL

B.S., 2018, University of Miami

Sapna Anne Kedia, M.D., M.P.H.

Internal Medicine—Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, NC

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2019, Rhodes College

Gray Alexandra Kelsey, M.D., M.P.H. Obstetrics-Gynecology/Preliminary—University of Colorado School of Medicine, CO

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.A., 2013, Dartmouth College

Abdul Kabir Khan, M.D., M.B.A. Internal Medicine—Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, CA

M.B.A., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2020, University of Miami

Class of 2024 Graduates

Leo Solomon Kleyman, M.D.

Internal Medicine—Baylor College of Medicine, TX

B.S., 2020, University of Miami

Margaret Claire Koester, M.D., M.P.H.

Internal Medicine—Mass General Brigham

Massachusetts General Hospital, MA

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2020, University of Michigan

Yana Kropotova, M.D., M.B.A.

Anesthesiology—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

M.B.A., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2018, George Washington University

Roshni C. Lalwani, M.D.

Neurology—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

B.S., 2020, University of Miami

Jake Allan Langlie, M.D.

Otolaryngology—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

B.S., 2018, University of Miami

Riley McKenna Larkin, M.D.

Otolaryngology—Vanderbilt University Medical Center, TN

B.S., 2019, University of Florida

Ngoc Anh Pham Le, M.D., M.P.H.

Anesthesiology—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2019, University of Florida

Adam Shapira Levy, M.D., M.B.A.

Neurological Surgery—University of Miami

Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

M.B.A., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2018, University of Miami

Morgan Sydney Levy, M.D., M.P.H.

Surgery-Preliminary—University of Kentucky Medical Center, KY

Radiation Oncology—University of Kentucky Medical Center, KY

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2019, Lafayette College

Crystal Y. Li, M.D.

Family Medicine—Texas Tech University, TX

B.A., 2017, Case Western Reserve University

Class of 2024 Graduates

Juan Jose Lizardi, M.D.

Plastic Surgery (Integrated)—Yale New Haven Hospital, CT

M.S., 2019, University of South Florida

B.S., 2017, Florida International University

Cristina Nicole Llaneras, M.D.

Medicine-Preliminary—University of Florida College of Medicine Shands Hospital,FL

Ophthalmology—University of Florida, FL

B.S., 2020, University of South Florida

Nina-Simone Sade Lobban, M.D.

Emergency Medicine—LSU School of Medicine, LA

B.A., 2020, University of Pennsylvania

Lourdes Maria Lopez, M.D.

Transitional—Tripler Army Medical Center, HI

B.S., 2018, Florida International University

Maya Lubarsky, M.D., M.P.H.

Internal Medicine—Case Western/University

Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, OH

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2018, University of Miami

Maria Margarita Lujan Montiel, M.D.

General Surgery—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

Three-Year Accelerated M.D. Program, 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2021, University of Miami

Neva Nicole Lundy, M.D., M.P.H. Neurology—Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, CA

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

M.S., 2013, University of Durham, UK

B.A., 2011, University of Notre Dame

Sherry Luo, M.D.

Transitional—Northeast Georgia Medical Center, GA

B.A., 2020, University of Georgia

B.S., 2020, University of Georgia

Dylan Isaac Luxenburg, M.D.

Surgery-Preliminary—Orlando Health, FL

B.S., 2019, Florida State University

Gordon Kent Woodward Macy, M.D. Internal Medicine—San Antonio Military Medical Center, TX

B.S., 2018, University of Florida

Class of 2024 Graduates

Krisna Scarlett Maddy, M.D., M.S.

Neurological Surgery—MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, DC

M.S., 2024, University of Miami

B.A., 2018, University of Pennsylvania

Omar Mahmoud, M.D.

Transitional—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Holy Cross, FL

B.S., 2018, University of Georgia

Moses Markowitz, M.D.

Orthopaedic Surgery—New York University

Grossman School of Medicine, NY

B.S., 2020, University of Michigan

Hannah Marwede, M.D.

Family Medicine—University of South Florida

Morsani College of Medicine, FL

B.S., 2020, University of Miami

Kristen Malini Mascarenhas, M.D., M.P.H.

Psychiatry—New York University Grossman School of Medicine, NY

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2020, University of Southern California

Andrew Domenic Masciarella, M.D., M.B.A.

Obstetrics-Gynecology—University of Texas Health Science Center, TX

M.B.A., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2018, University of Miami

Katherine Elizabeth Masih, M.D., M.S. Pediatrics/Research Track—Stanford Health Care, CA

M.S., 2024, University of Miami

Ph.D., 2023, University of Cambridge

B.S., 2015, University of Miami

Narges Maskan Bermudez, M.D.

Medicine-Preliminary—University of Miami

Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

Dermatology—Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, CA

B.S., 2017, University of California, Davis

Victoria Anne McKee, M.D.

Emergency Medicine—Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Morningside, NY

B.S., 2020, University of Central Florida

Megan Marie McLaughlin, M.D., M.P.H. Family Medicine—Ventura County Medical Center, CA

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.A., 2019, University of Richmond

Class of 2024 Graduates

Mynor Josue Mendez Valdez, M.D.

Neurological Surgery—Ohio State University

Medical Center, OH

B.S., 2018, Ohio State University

Jingjing Meng, M.D.

Pathology—Stanford Health Care, CA

Ph.D., 2014, University of Minnesota

B.S., 2009, China Pharmaceutical University, China

Rhiya Mittal, M.D., M.P.H.

Anesthesiology—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2017, University of Miami

Lien Morcate, M.D., M.P.H.

Pediatrics—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.A., 2019, University of Pennsylvania

Kavan Maguire Mulloy, M.D.

Psychiatry—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

B.S., 2018, University of Chicago

Devi Theivanai Nallakumar, M.D.

Anesthesiology—University of Texas Medical School, TX

B.S., 2019, University of Miami

Manish Narasimman, M.D.

Urology—Albert Einstein Medical Center, PA

B.A., 2019, Northwestern University

Caroline Grace Nicotra, M.D.

Family Medicine—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

B.S., 2019, Virginia Polytechnic Institute

Marquese Noel-McCormick, M.D., M.S. Family Medicine—Temple Health - Chestnut Hill Hospital, PA

M.S., 2018, University of Miami

B.S., 2017, University of Miami

Christopher Daniel Norberg, M.D., M.S. Internal Medicine—Duke University Medical Center, NC

M.S., 2020, University of Miami

B.S., 2018, Florida Gulf Coast University

Class of 2024 Graduates

Funmilayo Stephanie Ogunbufunmi, M.D.

Transitional—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Holy Cross, FL

Dermatology—Henry Ford Hospital, MI

MASDG, 2020, New York University

B.S., 2018, University of Rochester

Ann Michelle Oler, M.D., M.P.H.

Psychiatry—University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School, TX

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.A., 2019, Northwestern University

Kevin S. Orton, M.D.

Orthopaedic Surgery—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

B.S., 2019, University of Miami

Julia Marie Ossi, M.D., M.P.H.

Internal Medicine—Emory University School of Medicine, GA

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2020, University of Florida

Gretel Paez, M.D.

Internal Medicine—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

B.A., 2019, Florida International University

Dianne Nathalie Pagan, M.D.

Orthopaedic Surgery—University of Texas Medical Branch, TX

B.S., 2019, University of Miami

Nicholas Andrew Parisi, M.D.

Pathology—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

B.S., 2018, University of Colorado

Shivangi Parmar, M.D., M.S.

General Surgery—University of California Medical Center, CA

M.S., 2024, University of Miami

B.A., 2017, Harvard University

Anmol Bharat Patel, M.D., M.P.H.

Surgery-Preliminary—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

Interventional Radiology—University of Chicago Medical Center, IL

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2020, University of Wisconsin - Parkside

Pooja U. Patel, M.D., M.B.A.

Internal Medicine—HCA Florida JFK Hospital/ University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, FL

M.B.A., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2020, University of Miami

Class of 2024 Graduates

Shrey Patel, M.D.

Transitional—HCA Healthcare, FL

B.S.P.H., 2019, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Nathalie Elisabeth Perez, M.D.

Medicine/Ophthalmology—Thomas Jefferson University, PA

Ophthalmology—Wills Eye Hospital, PA

B.S., 2017, University of Central Florida

Mikael Joshua Perla, M.D.

Internal Medicine—Southwest Healthcare Medical Education Consortium, CA

B.S., 2016, University of Washington

Pauline Portes, M.D., M.P.H.

Pediatrics—Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, CA

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2019, McGill University

Ignacio Quintana, M.D.

Anesthesiology—University of Florida College of Medicine Shands Hospital, FL

B.S., 2020, University of South Florida

Farhan Qureshi, M.D., Ph.D.

Urology—Johns Hopkins Hosptial, MD

Ph.D., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2015, University of Virginia

Sajidur Rahman-Kader, M.D., M.P.H. Internal Medicine—Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Valley Health System, NJ

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.A., 2020, Duke University

Jose Ramirez Rossy, M.D.

Family Medicine—Duke University Medical Center, NC

B.S., 2019, University of South Florida

Ian Ramsay, M.D., M.P.H.

Neurological Surgery—LSU School of Medicine, LA

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2016, Bates College

Advaitaa Ravipati, M.D.

Transitional—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Holy Cross, FL

Dermatology—University of Nebraska Medical Center, NE

M.S., 2017, Johns Hopkins University

B.S., 2016, University of South Florida

Class of 2024 Graduates

Andrew C. Rennick, M.D.

Medicine-Preliminary—University of Miami

Miller School of Medicine/Holy Cross, FL

Radiology-Diagnostic—University of South Florida

Morsani College of Medicine, FL

B.S., 2019, University of Florida

Joshua Mark Reyes, M.D.

Medicine-Preliminary/Ophthalmology— Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

Morningside, NY

Ophthalmology—New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, NY

B.S., 2017, Florida International University

Chelsi Amber Riley-Prescott, M.D.

Anesthesiology—Rush University Medical Center, IL

B.S., 2019, State University of New York, Albany

Danelle Leo Richard, M.D.

Obstetrics-Gynecology—-UC Davis Medical Center, CA

B.S., 2018, University of Central Florida

Lindsay Renee Richards, M.D., M.P.H.

Family Medicine—Natividad Medical Center, CA

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2019, University of Florida

Kenneth Daniel Richardson, M.D.

Surgery-Preliminary—University of South Florida

Morsani College of Medicine, FL

Interventional Radiology—University of South

Florida Morsani College of Medicine, FL

B.S., 2019, University of Florida

Gabriella Faith Rodriguez, M.D.

Psychiatry—Baylor College of Medicine, TX

B.S., 2019, University of Miami

Maria Gabriela Rodriguez, M.D.

Internal Medicine—Barnes-Jewish Hospital, MO

B.S., 2020, University of Florida

Christina Raquel Roldan, M.D.

Family Medicine—Mike O’Callaghan Federal Hospital, Nellis Air Force Base/University of Nevada School of Medicine

Certificate in Security Management, 2024, University of Miami

B.A., 2017, University of Pennsylvania

Jackson Carl Rossborough, M.D.

Surgery-Preliminary—University of North Carolina Hospitals, NC

Interventional Radiology—University of North Carolina Hospitals, NC

B.S., 2018, University of Miami

Class of 2024 Graduates

Pamela Caryn Saavedra-Rivera, M.D., M.P.H.

Internal Medicine—HCA Florida JFK Hospital/ University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, FL

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

M.H.S., 2017, Johns Hopkins University

B.S., 2016, Johns Hopkins University

Tara Samra, M.D.

Medicine-Preliminary—University of Arizona College of Medicine, AZ

Dermatology—University of Arizona College of Medicine, AZ

B.A., 2019, University of Miami

Noah Caleb Sanders, M.D., M.P.H.

Emergency Medicine—Sinai-Grace-Detroit Medical Center, MI

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2019, University of South Florida

Anny Mercedes Santana Beard, M.D.

Anesthesiology—HCA Florida Westside Hospital, FL

B.S., 2019, University of Central Florida

Sanjana Satish, M.D., M.P.H.

Obstetrics-Gynecology—Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, PA

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.A., 2020, Vanderbilt University

Emma Armstrong Schindler, M.D., M.P.H.

Obstetrics-Gynecology—University of Virginia, VA

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.A., 2019, Duke University

Esmeralda Segura, M.D.

Internal Medicine—University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, TX

B.S., 2020, University of South Florida

Grace Seo, M.D.

Internal Medicine—Emory University School of Medicine, GA

B.S., 2014, Cornell University

Neil Seth, M.D.

General Surgery—Cleveland Clinic, FL

B.S., 2017, University of Miami

Meghan Sharma, M.D., M.P.H.

Ophthalmology—Research Fellowship, Moran Eye Center/University of Utah, UT

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.A., 2018, Washington University

Class of 2024 Graduates

Connor David Shatz, M.D.

General Surgery—University of Southern California, CA

B.S., 2020, University of Miami

Serene Shehadeh, M.D., M.P.H.

Medicine-Pediatrics—University of Illinois College of Medicine, IL

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2019, University of Miami

Hannah Ilyse Ship, M.D., M.P.H.

Medicine-Primary—Olive View-UCLA Medical Center, CA

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2019, University of California, Los Angeles

Charlotte Marie Smith, M.D.

Emergency Medicine—Kern Medical Center, CA

B.S., 2019, University of California, Los Angeles

Gemma Nicole St. Louis, M.D., M.P.H.

Obstetrics-Gynecology—New York University

Grossman School of Medicine, NY

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2020, University of Miami

Valerie Sarah Stark, M.D., M.P.H.

Internal Medicine—George Washington University, DC

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2018, University of California, San Diego

Kurt Statz-Geary, M.D.

Internal Medicine—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

B.S., 2017, University of Miami

Sara Jane Stewart, M.D.

Transitional—Memorial Healthcare System, FL

Radiology-Diagnostic—McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University, IL

B.S., 2020, University of Notre Dame

Ronald Michael Swonger, M.D.

Orthopaedic Surgery—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

B.A., 2017, University of South Florida

Alina Syros, M.D.

Orthopaedic Surgery—Mass General Brigham, MA

M.P.H., 2019, Boston University

B.S., 2018, Boston University

Class of 2024 Graduates

Marina Marwan Tabbara, M.D., M.S.

General Surgery—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

M.S., 2019, University of Miami

B.S., 2018, Boston University

Labu Juju Tamrakar, M.D.

Internal Medicine—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Holy Cross, FL

B.S., 2019, University of Central Florida

David Josue Taylor Gonzalez, M.D.

Research Fellowship—Hamilton Eye Center, TN

B.S., 2018, Cornell University

Julien Olivier Tremblay, M.D., M.P.H.

Internal Medicine—Vanderbilt University Medical Center, TN

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2019, Brandeis University

Delano Rojay Trenchfield, M.D.

Research Fellowship—Adult Reconstruction Clinical/Hospital for Special Surgery, FL

B.S., 2019, University of Florida

Lismelia Vargas, M.D.

General Surgery—NewYork-Presbyterian/ Columbia University Medical Center, NY

B.A., 2016, Harvard University

Christopher Samuel Vazquez, M.D.

General Surgery—Massachusetts General Hospital, MA

B.A., 2019, Pomona College

Nicole Marie Vecin, M.D., M.P.H.

Medicine-Preliminary—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Holy Cross, FL

Dermatology—Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, CA

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2017, University of Florida

Julia Velazquez, M.D.

Pediatrics—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

Three-Year Accelerated M.D. Program, 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2019, University of Central Florida

Valerie Vilarino, M.D.

Internal Medicine—University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/Jackson Health System, FL

B.A., 2018, Johns Hopkins University

Class of 2024 Graduates

Vincent Angelo Santiago Volante, M.D.

Research—Bascom Palmer Eye Institute/ University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, FL

B.S., 2017, University of North Florida

Liang Wang, M.D.

Medicine-Preliminary/Ophthalmology— Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Morningside, NY

Ophthalmology—New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, NY

B.S., 2019, Johns Hopkins University

Nathan Aaron Wasserman, M.D.

Medicine-Preliminary—University of Texas Southwestern Medical School, TX

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation—Emory University School of Medicine, GA

B.S., 2020, Vanderbilt University

Jonathan R. Weinerman, M.D.

Orthopaedic Surgery—University of Michigan Hospitals, MI

M.S., 2019, University of Texas at San Antonio

B.S., 2015, University of Miami

Maximilian David Wengyn, M.D.

Pediatrics—Boston Children’s Hospital, MA

B.A., 2018, University of Pennsylvania

Roen Micayla Wheeler, M.D., M.P.H.

Pediatrics—Brown University/Rhode Island Hospital, RI

M.P.H., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2019, University of Michigan

Tizeta Mary Wolde, M.D.

General Surgery—Howard University Hospital, DC

B.S., 2015, University of California, Riverside

William Austin Wyant, M.D.

Medicine-Preliminary—University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, FL

M.S., 2019, University of Stirling

B.S., 2018, Florida State University

Michelle Zhang, M.D., Ph.D.

Surgery-Preliminary/General/Specialty— University of California San Francisco, CA

Ophthalmology—University of California San Francisco, CA

Ph.D., 2024, University of Miami

B.S., 2016, Cornell University

Isabel Zheng, M.D.

Internal Medicine—University of Michigan Hospital, MI

B.S., 2018, Yale University

Class of 2024 Graduates

John Joseph Zizzo, M.D.

Medicine-Primary—Johns

Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, MD

B.S., 2020, University of Miami

University of Miami Medical Alumni Association

Congratulations on the successful completion of your medical studies and the attainment of your Doctor of Medicine degree. I am confident that, with the knowledge and skills you have obtained at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, you will go on to rewarding careers in medicine.

We have a proud heritage as lifetime members of the Miller School, and it is with great pride that I welcome the Class of 2023 as our newest members. Chartered in 1956, the Medical Alumni Association is committed to enhancing a mutually beneficial and enduring relationship between the medical school, students and faculty, and our alumni. Our goal is to promote the excellence of our medical school by serving as ambassadors in the community, encouraging involvement and volunteerism, and fostering respect and pride for our alma mater.

We hope you will bookmark med.miami.edu/alumni and visit us online often to keep abreast of the latest alumni news, events, and reunions. Of course, remember to keep your contact information up to date, so that you and your classmates can easily stay in touch!

Go ’Canes!

Maria Del Pilar Gutierrez, B.S. ’84, M.D. ’90 President, Medical Alumni Association

The Mace

The academic mace, an enduring symbol of institutional authority and prestige, is a vestige from prehistoric times. First used as a battle weapon, the mace evolved into a ceremonial staff carried in processions of royalty, magistrates, and church or university officials.

The University of Miami’s current mace, which dates back to 1986, was sculpted by former art professor William Ward. He chose a contemporary design, one that reflects the University’s timelessness and perpetual growth from a young institution to one of national prominence. The clean lines and polished silver surface are elegant, dignified, and reflective of colors, textures, and forms in the everchanging environment. Ward indicated that timelessness is further represented by the mace’s geometric design. Rather than employing symbols like books, candles, or globes, he noted that the geometric shapes are not tied to fad or style but are an integral part of our world.

“There are obvious relationships to mathematics and the sciences, and as the mace is rotated, some of the planes at the top resemble letters. Its complexity is like the unfolding plot of a good story,” Ward said.

The University of Miami’s mace serves as a symbolic weapon to protect the ideals of truth, justice, and learning. During the commencement ceremony, it is carried at the head of the academic procession by the grand marshal, whose symbolic duty is the protection of the University, its people, and its processes.

In 2019, staff and faculty members in the Department of Theatre Arts performed preservation and restoration work on the mace, crafting a new base and reviving the original sheen so that, after decades of use, the mace continues to play its role in the University’s commencement ceremonies.

The University of Miami Presidential Chair

The University of Miami Presidential Chair, or cathedra, took its place on the commencement stage in 2016 as a symbol of the Office of the President. Traditionally representing the seat of learning, the cathedra was designed and crafted by master furniture maker Austin Matheson, an adjunct professor in the School of Architecture whose family history in South Florida predates the University’s 1925 founding.

Matheson carved and joined what appear to be the seamless pieces of the chair from a single slab of highly prized and onceabundant Cuban mahogany wood. It was salvaged from a tree felled by a hurricane in nearby Coconut Grove. The fluidity of his

design represents the idea that “We Are One U,” while his use of a contemporary style and a few traditional flourishes represent the University’s rich past and promising future. “The chair is unique. It has no precedent. It stands alone,” Matheson said.

Etched by laser, the Great Seal of the University of Miami is prominently displayed on the splat, or back, of the chair. More subtly, twin silhouettes of an ibis head, with its graceful beak, adorn each side of the crest rail. Known for its invincible spirit when hurricanes approach, the marsh bird has been the school mascot since the University opened its doors, just a month after the hurricane of 1926 devastated Miami. Like the chair, the ibis continues to be a symbol of our resilience and renewal as we approach our new century.

Academic Regalia

The ceremonies of commencement immerse us in the rich tradition of academic honors and dress that dates back to the formation of early universities in Europe beginning around the 12th century.

American institutions adopted a code of academic dress at the end of the 19th century, with revisions in 1932, 1959, and 1986 by a committee on costumes and ceremonies supervised by the American Council on Education.

The University of Miami awards degrees in three basic divisions: the doctorate, master’s, and baccalaureate, which can be traced to medieval times. The student receiving a “first degree in arts” was crowned with a garland of barberries, hence “baccalaureate” and “bachelor.” The master’s degree was a license to teach (licentia docendi), so the “master” was an appropriate title. The doctor was even better qualified to teach, for that degree required advanced study, independent research, and defense of a dissertation. These standards still apply to the doctorate, except for those conferred honoris causa (honorary degrees) for meritorious service in a public or private endeavor.

From medieval practice, academic dress has three items: cap, gown, and hood. In 1895, an intercollegiate commission in the United States drafted a code for academic regalia that most universities, including the University of Miami, follow.

For all degrees, the mortarboard is the traditional cap. The tassel is generally black, with a gold tassel for doctoral degree recipients, but some universities have chosen to relate the color of the tassel with the major subject of study.

The bachelor’s gown is black with long, pointed, open sleeves. The master’s gown is black with long, closed sleeves hanging below the elbow. The doctor’s gown is black and is distinguished by three bars of velvet on full sleeves.

The academic hood is the identifying symbol of the degree. Its length indicates which degree it represents: three feet for the baccalaureate, three-and-a-half for the master’s, and four for the doctorate. The lining indicates the college or university that awarded the degree. University of Miami hoods are lined in orange, green, and white. The color of the velvet band represents the academic discipline. Some of the most frequently seen colors are white for arts, yellow for science, blue for philosophy, purple for law, green for medicine, sapphire blue for business, orange for engineering, blue violet for architecture, and apricot for nursing.

President Julio Frenk wears a black robe with four black velvet bars. The fourth chevron indicates this is the presidential regalia. The gown features orange and green piping as well as a doctoral hood lined in orange, green and white—reflecting the official University of Miami school colors.

Iron Arrow Honor Society

The Iron Arrow Honor Society, which was founded soon after the University of Miami opened in 1926, recognizes individuals who exemplify leadership, scholarship, character, humility, and love of alma mater. In one of the University’s highest honors, new members are

Pedro Orlando Diaz Jr., M.D., M.B.A.

Dalton Akeim George, M.D., M.P.H.

Akshata Gunda, M.D., M.A.I.A.

Pia I. Iribarren, M.D.

chosen with a tap of an iron arrow after a vote by current members. They are easily recognized by their colorful patchwork jackets from the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida and the distinctive symbol on the collar that identifies the group as a unique clan of the Miccosukee.

Neva Nicole Lundy, M.D., M.P.H.

Serene Shehadeh, M.D., M.P.H.

Gemma Nicole St. Louis, M.D., M.P.H.

“He who would know the Arrow, must as an irrefutable rule, have openly and without thought of reward, shown obvious love of Alma Mater.” — The Founding Nine

Alpha Omega Alpha

Alpha Omega Alpha can be thought of as the “Phi Beta Kappa for medical schools.” As the only national medical honor society, its mission, developed over the past 100 years, is to recognize and enhance professionalism, academic excellence, service, and leadership within the

Kelley N. Benck, M.D., M.P.H.

Lauren Elizabeth de la Parte, M.D.

Shaheen Emami, M.D., M.P.H.

Uchechukwu Chibuzo Ezeh, M.D.

Ryan Alexander Gallo, M.D., Ph.D.

Alexander Ross Gibstein, M.D., M.B.A.

Jessica Rachel Griff, M.D., M.B.A.

Claire Grosgogeat, M.D.

Mathilde Marie Hainaut, M.D., M.P.H.

Samantha McKenzie Herbert, M.D.

Brooke Elise Hobbs, M.D.

Lauren N. Hucko, M.D., M.P.H.

Sarah Marie Jacobs, M.D.

Alexis Kimberling Jones, M.D., M.P.H.

field of medicine. Election to Alpha Omega Alpha is an honor signifying a lasting commitment to scholarship, leadership, professionalism, and service. A lifelong honor, membership in the society confers recognition for a physician’s dedication to the profession and art of healing.

Priyashma Joshi, M.D., M.P.H.

Gray Alexandra Kelsey, M.D., M.P.H.

Margaret Claire Koester, M.D., M.P.H.

Jake Allan Langlie, M.D.

Cristina Nicole Llaneras, M.D.

Kristen Malini Mascarenhas, M.D., M.P.H.

Narges Maskan Bermudez, M.D.

Dianne Nathalie Pagan, M.D.

Anmol Bharat Patel, M.D., M.P.H.

Kenneth Daniel Richardson, M.D.

Gabriella Faith Rodriguez, M.D.

Maria Gabriela Rodriguez, M.D.

Tara Samra, M.D.

Emma Armstrong Schindler, M.D., M.P.H.

Hannah Ilyse Ship, M.D., M.P.H. Gemma Nicole St. Louis, M.D., M.P.H.

Sara Jane Stewart, M.D.

Ronald Michael Swonger, M.D.

Alina Syros, M.D.

Valerie Vilarino, M.D.

Liang Wang, M.D.

Nathan Aaron Wasserman, M.D.

Jonathan R. Weinerman, M.D.

Maximilian David Wengyn, M.D.

Michelle Zhang, M.D., Ph.D.

Isabel Zheng, M.D.

Gold Humanism Honor Society

The Gold Humanism Honor Society (GHHS) chapter at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine was established in 2015. Membership in the society is an honor bestowed upon the top students in the third-year class who exemplify excellence in humanistic care. GHHS members support, model, and advocate for compassionate,

Matthew Brian Alonso, M.D., M.P.H.

Rebecca Libby Barnett, M.D., M.P.H.

Gianna Bello, M.D., M.P.H.

Kelley N. Benck, M.D., M.P.H.

Lizeth Joann Caldera, M.D.

Lauren Elizabeth de la Parte, M.D.

Pedro Orlando Diaz Jr., M.D., M.B.A. Shaheen Emami, M.D., M.P.H.

patient-centered care throughout their careers. Students are chosen through a rigorous process that, in part, includes nominations by peers. Chapter members perform a service project that highlights humanism during their fourth year of medical school.

Federico Nicolas Erhart, M.D., M.P.H.

Sophie Helen Harris, M.D.

Sarah Marie Jacobs, M.D.

Neva Nicole Lundy, M.D., M.P.H.

Gordon Kent Woodward Macy, M.D.

Krisna Scarlett Maddy, M.D., M.S.

Narges Maskan Bermudez, M.D.

Lien Morcate, M.D., M.P.H.

Research Distinction

Christopher Daniel Norberg, M.D., M.S.

Serene Shehadeh, M.D., M.P.H.

Valerie Sarah Stark, M.D., M.P.H.

Ronald Michael Swonger, M.D.

Marina Marwan Tabbara, M.D., M.S.

Christopher Samuel Vazquez, M.D.

The following graduates have fulfilled their requirements to receive the Doctor of Medicine degree with Research Distinction:

Abdurrahman Al-Awady, M.D.

Georgia Biazus Soares, M.D.

Siri Choragudi, M.D.

Brianna Conte, M.D.

Pooja Dave, M.D., M.P.H.

Henson Destiné, M.D.

Gabrielle DiBartolomeo, M.D.

Uchechukwu Chibuzo Ezeh, M.D.

Ryan Alexander Gallo, M.D., Ph.D.

Sharon Lee Hsieh, M.D., M.P.H.

Michael Alexander Kaiser, M.D.

Maya Lubarsky, M.D., M.P.H.

Katherine Elizabeth Masih, M.D., M.S.

Narges Maskan Bermudez, M.D.

Accelerated Pathway

Established in 2020, the Accelerated Pathway is a unique, fast-track, specialty-specific career development program that allows students to complete medical school in three years. The program gives selected

Austin K. Choi, M.D.

Jean Marie Henry, M.D.

Marquese Noel-McCormick, M.D., M.S.

Shrey Patel, M.D.

Tara Samra, M.D.

Meghan Sharma, M.D., M.P.H.

Delano Rojay Trenchfield, M.D.

Nicole Marie Vecin, M.D., M.P.H.

Michelle Zhang, M.D., Ph.D.

medical students specialty-specific mentorship and instruction starting in their first year of medical school, with a unique curriculum intended to prepare them early for a career in their chosen specialty.

Maria Margarita Lujan Montiel, M.D.

Julia Velazquez, M.D.

Student Government Officers

Executive Officers

President ......................... Rachael Stottlemyre

Vice President Nikhil Patel

Secretary Laila Elias

Treasurer Aaron Cohen

Ethics Chancellor .................. Arya Kermanshah

Diversity Representative Patricia Pozo

Events Coordinator Brianna Sa

IT Officer Akhila Sangadi

Student Organization Director ........ Orel Tabibi

Public Relations Dimitri Godur

Senior Advisors

Pia I. Iribarren, M.D.

Neva Nicole Lundy, M.D., M.P.H. Narges Maskan Bermudez, M.D.

Class of 2023 Officers

President ......................... Dalton Akeim George, M.D., M.P.H.

Vice President Gemma Nicole St. Louis, M.D., M.P.H.

Secretary Lourdes Maria Lopez, M.D.

Treasurer Adam Shapira Levy, M.D., M.B.A.

Curriculum Representative ........... Haley Marie Barefoot, M.D., M.P.H.

Sarah Marie Jacobs, M.D.

Ethics Representative Julien Olivier Tremblay, M.D., M.P.H.

Diversity Representative Miriyam Ghali, M.D., M.B.A.

Webmaster ....................... Christopher Daniel Norberg, M.D., M.S.

Student Government Representatives ... Melissa Ann Huberman, M.D. Priyashma Joshi, M.D., M.P.H.

Events Coordinator Anny Mercedes Santana Beard, M.D.

M.D./M.P.H. Liaison ...............

Grace Seo, M.D.

Neva Nicole Lundy, M.D., M.P.H.

As a Member of the Medical Profession:

I Solemnly Pledge to dedicate my life to the service of humanity;

The Health and Well-Being of My Patient will be my first consideration;

I Will Respect the autonomy and dignity of my patient;

I Will Maintain the utmost respect for human life;

I Will Not Permit considerations of age, disease or disability, creed, ethnic origin, gender, nationality, political affiliation, race, sexual orientation, social standing, or any other factor to intervene between my duty and my patient;

I Will Respect the secrets that are confided in me, even after the patient has died;

I Will Practice my profession with conscience and dignity and in accordance with good medical practice;

I Will Foster the honor and noble traditions of the medical profession;

I Will Give to my teachers, colleagues, and students the respect and gratitude that is their due;

I Will Share my medical knowledge for the benefit of the patient and the advancement of healthcare;

I Will Attend To my own health, well-being, and abilities in order to provide care of the highest standard;

I Will Not Use my medical knowledge to violate human rights and civil liberties, even under threat;

I Make These Promises Solemnly, Freely, and Upon My Honor.

Alma Mater

William S. Lampe and Christine Asdurian Arranged by Henry Fillmore

Southern suns and sky blue water

Smile upon you, Alma Mater

Mistress of this fruitful land

With all knowledge at your hand

Always just, to honor true

All our love we pledge to you

Alma Mater

Stand forever

On Biscayne’s wondrous shore.

2024 COMMENCEMENT MAP

CORAL GABLES C AMP US

Parking and Reception Information

The spring commencement ceremonies will be held in the Watsco Center on the Coral Gables Campus from May 9-11, 2024. Free parking is conveniently located near the Watsco Center at Levante, Mahoney-Pearson, and Pavia garages. Parking passes are not required for commencement guests. The Special Needs Parking is located in front of the Watsco Center at the Serpentine lot (425S and 425N) on Walsh Avenue. State-issued disabled parking permits are required to access these lots. Parking at Ponce de Leon Garage is strictly reserved for patients of The Lennar Foundation Medical Center.

Golf carts and shuttles will be running continuously for guests who cannot walk long distances to and from the Watsco Center from surrounding parking lots. No reservations are needed.

Guests attending receptions may park in the pink lots. For the most up-to-date information about receptions and their locations, please scan the QR code below.