Current Residents
Kara Albright, D.O. Undergrad: Wichita State University, Wichita KS I was born and raised in Valley Center, a small town outside of Wichita, Kansas, and attended Wichita State University for undergrad. While in college, I worked as a nurse aide in a family practice and later as a scribe in the emergency department. I was able to work with some of the graduates of this program who spoke highly of their training and Kansas City, so I applied to study at KCU for medical school. I was fortunate enough to have my first audition rotation at Truman and immediately felt welcomed by the residents and attendings. I knew this program would be my first choice as it has a long-standing reputation of excellent leadership and serves a large, underserved population. Outside of medicine, I love to bake, decorate royal icing cookies, spend time with my family and plan trips to Disney! Andrea Bastien, D.O. Undergraduate: Purdue University I grew up in St. Louis Missouri, then moved to Indiana to attend Purdue where I earned my bachelor’s degree in biology with a minor in psychology. After that I spent a year scribing in an emergency department back in St. Louis, this is when I first discovered my love of emergency medicine! I then completed a one year masters of biomedical science degree at Kansas City University before moving to Knoxville to attend LMU DCOM and earn my doctorate. I completed an audition rotation at Truman and fell in love with the program there! I already knew I wanted to move back to Missouri, but getting to know the people at Truman and hearing how much they enjoyed the program moved it to the top of my list. Along the journey I got married to my wonderful husband Sam and we have two fur babies – one dog and one cat. In my free time I like to read, hike, explore new coffee shops, watch horror movies and travel! Zoe C. Durand, M.D. Medical School: Université de Médecine et de Pharmacie de Rouen (France) I was born and raised in Normandy, France and attended medical school at the Universite de Medecine et de Pharmacie de Rouen (Rouen, France). Halfway through my emergency medicine residency at the same university, I moved to the US with my husband who now is an orthopaedic spine surgeon. We co-founded a biotech start-up company that develops antimicrobial surface modification technology and had to live in California, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut prior to moving to Kansas City. Having traveled across the country, I genuinely love this energetic city, its people’s kindness, its vibrant art scene, the family friendly activities, and of course the BBQ culture. I am proud of having joined this high-quality program that is a perfect combination of academic and inner-city practice. I enjoy spending time with my husband, two daughters, and two adorable rescue cats that I brought from France. During my free time, I enjoy working out, attending Sporting KC games, and traveling overseas with my family. Susriya Gangireddy, M.D. Undergrad: UMKC – Kansas City, MO Hello! I primarily grew up in Bloomington-Normal, IL (which, true to its name, was a pretty normal town). I attended a residential STEM high school in Aurora, IL where my interest in medicine was sparked, and I came to Kansas City for the B.A./M.D. program at UMKC. Emergency Medicine had been tickling my mind since the beginning of my journey through medicine, and though I tried to keep an open mind, I found myself constantly coming back to it. Having done my rotations here, I knew I would get great training at UMKC’s EM program as it’s one of the oldest and most established programs with amazing faculty, residents, and leadership. It had the perfect balance of everything I was looking for in a residency including learning opportunities, resident autonomy, and a close-knit group of people. When I’m not at the hospital, I enjoy dancing (learning choreographies or just having a jam sesh), watching horror movies while drinking copious amounts of tea, trivia nights, and traveling when I can! Kameron Hartung, D.O. Undergraduate: Simpson College – Indianola, IA Hey everyone! I grew up in Indianola, IA located just south of Des Moines. I was involved in four sports during high school, and I continued basketball in college. I stayed in Indianola and attended Simpson College for my undergraduate degree. In addition to basketball, I completed two summers of undergraduate research with a phenomenal mentor at Des Moines University. My work helped lead to the completion of my medical degree at Des Moines University. I have been passionate about EM for many years and was fortunate to grow up with an in-house role model who is also an EM physician. His stories helped solidify my specialty choice. Outside of the ED, I am an adventure seeker (despite staying in my hometown for college). I love to travel and be outdoors. I enjoy hiking, snowboarding, and mountain biking. My wife, Paige, and I have visited over 10 national parks. I am scuba certified and have completed over 40 dives in the Caribbean. We also spend a lot of time with our Wheaten Terrier, Finley. I enjoy trying new restaurants and breweries, which KC has plenty of! I am so excited to call KC home and to be a part of a well-established program full of kind and welcoming people. Riley Hedberg, M.D. Undergraduate: University of Missouri – Columbia (Columbia, MO) I grew up in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, one of the suburbs of Kansas City. After high school I attended the University of Missouri – Columbia, while also training to become a firefighter and paramedic. I spent 5 years working as a paramedic and firefighter before deciding to pursue medicine as a career. I returned to Mizzou to finish my undergraduate degree and attended medical school at the University of Kansas. I have an amazing wife and daughter who are thrilled to call Kansas City home. For residency, I wanted to train at a strong program with supportive faculty and residents. I was impressed by the reputation, history, and quality of training at UH/TMC and knew I would leave here well trained. However, it was the genuine nature of everyone I met on interview day that made my decision easy. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family and exploring the outdoors, including hiking and lake trips. Bryce Lord, D.O. Undergraduate School: Drake University, Des Moines, IA I grew up in the small town of Perry, Iowa right outside of Des Moines. I continued my education at Drake University in Des Moines where I completed a major in Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology and completed a minor in saxophone performance with a concentration in jazz studies. After graduating from Drake University I traveled to Arkansas for medical school at ARCOM. I always knew that if I went into medicine I would go the emergency medicine route, and my journey through medical school confirmed that. I originally though to apply to UMKC because it took me back to the Midwest, and I have really enjoyed the city in the past when I have visited. After looking into it I just fell more in love with the program. The county hospital setting while still working and living in an urban area was exactly what I was looking for. After my interview and the second look I did I knew this was where I wanted to be for residency. Outside of medicine I enjoy golfing, hiking, traveling, camping, and all other things outdoors; although when it’s bad weather I’m most likely binging episodes/movies on any number of streaming services. I also play a myriad of instruments (which I’m sure my neighbors in my apartment complex love…) and enjoy going anywhere with live music or concerts. Joseph (Joey) O’Brien, M.D. Undergraduate: University of Missouri, Columbia – Columbia, MO I was born and raised in Kansas City, where I have spent most of my life. I ventured out to Columbia, MO for four years where I majored in biochemistry at Mizzou and found my passion for Emergency Medicine while training as an EMT. After realizing it’s hard to make new friends as an adult, I decided to do medical school back in my hometown. Tomorrow I will be marrying my fiancé, Emily, and then it’s off to Costa Rica for our honeymoon! We met through a mutual friend at the beginning of our medical and nursing school journeys. She started out as a floor nurse until I convinced her the ED was the coolest place in the hospital and now we get to work in the same department come July! We chose UMKC for residency because of the program’s long history, dedication to excellence, and great learning opportunities. Additionally, we are both loyal Kansas Citians and desired to stay in the area. I enjoy scuba diving, cooking, traveling, and winning in my free time. I love all games, but some of my favorites include pickleball, spikeball, chess, video games (currently Demeo in VR), annoying Emily, or throwing the ball for my two Havanese-poodles, Maple and Bacon. Pooja Patel, D.O. Undergraduate: University of Missouri-Kansas City — Kansas City, MO Hey there! I grew up in Springfield, MO before moving to Kansas City and never leaving! I came to KC for undergrad, stayed for medical school, and am thrilled to be staying for residency! If you are anything like me, you will fall in love with this city. It definitely is a big city with a small town feel and there is something for everyone here. My journey to emergency medicine started when I worked as a scribe for almost four years. I sealed my love for EM during my clinical rotations. I did my first away rotation at UMKC and was thoroughly impressed with the brilliance, but also kindness from the residents, attendings, and staff. No other program I interacted with matched this program’s supportiveness of their students and residents. It was highly evident that they wanted to help me get to wherever I thought was a best fit for me. Combined with this mentorship and the history and reputation of this program, I am so excited to be starting my residency here! In my free time, I love taking my dog, Charlie, to Loose Park or the Riverfront. I also love hammocking, hiking, kayaking, dancing, yoga, movie nights, board games, cocktails on patios, reading, and taking weekend road trips. I love food and ice cream as well and KC has an endless supply of amazing local places to check out!” Jace Schell, D.O. Undergraduate/graduate: Oklahoma State University Stillwater Oklahoma I was born and raised in Tulsa Oklahoma. I graduated from Oklahoma State University Stillwater Oklahoma with a Masters in nutrition. From there I transitioned to working in the hospital as a patient service representative. This was my first exposure to hospital work and the emergency department. I absolutely loved it! I am a graduate of Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Tulsa Oklahoma. In my spare time, I enjoy running, swimming, and biking. I also love to watch movies, read and write. Most of all I like to spend quality time with my family and look forward to the holidays when I can return home for visits. Additionally, I spend a lot of my time on walks through the park with my dog Koga, who is an akita/mix. I am excited to attend the UMKC/UTHealth residency and look forward to exploring the Kansas City area. Jaime Wilson, D.O. Undergraduate: University of Northern Iowa – Cedar Falls, Iowa Born and raised in Cedar Falls, Iowa, where I also attended my undergraduate institution, the University of Northern Iowa. Along with my three older sisters and twin sister, we played a lot of volleyball and softball growing up. I played competitive volleyball and sand volleyball through high school and still enjoy pickup games today. While in medical school, my boyfriend Ben taught me how to play golf. We enjoy golfing with friends and scramble tournaments on weekends throughout the summer. Can’t forget to mention my dog Cola Bear, a 5 year old Boykin Spaniel! Emergency Medicine was always my top choice for residency. I spent undergrad working as an ER tech in Waterloo and also volunteering at the Community Health clinic where I enjoyed serving the underserved. Kansas City is able to give me the best of both worlds, plus lots of other activities outside of medicine. Excited and humbled to be part of the UMKC Emergency Medicine Family! Braden Zoller, D.O. Undergraduate: Truman State University, Kirksville, MO Hello! I was born and raised in St. Louis, MO. I went to undergrad at Truman State University where I met my wife, Alyssa, and then we moved to Kansas City where I attended Kansas City University for medical school. Prior to medical school, I worked as a scribe in the ED which was where my interest in emergency medicine began. I chose UMKC because of its well-established reputation as a great training program. My wife and I enjoy living in Kansas City with our two dogs Kota and Keanu. In our free time we are usually grabbing coffee/drinks, exercising, or hanging out with friends/family. Nathan Dougherty, D.O. Med School: Kansas City University My fiancé, Briana, and I happily couples’ matched into the Kansas City area which we have grown to love over the last four years. We serve 2 cats, Smudge (pictured) and Patrick Mahomes (gray kitty not featured as he is busy training). I’m a collector of hobbies/skill and I’ve worked nearly every job imaginable. Emergency Medicine was truly an inevitable outcome for me as it both engages my personality/experiences and allows me to help address a diverse range of health needs within the community. Cara Gardner, D.O. Hey everyone, I’m Cara, and it’s great to meet you! I’m a central Illinois native who found my way to Iowa State University (Go Cyclones!!!!) for my college years. After that, I ventured to ATSU in rural Missouri for medical school. Emergency Medicine has always had a special place in my heart. Not only because of the amazing and hilarious people you get to work with, but because it’s such a fulfilling way to serve the community. During my fourth year, I had the pleasure of swinging by Kansas City and reached out to see the hospital. Dr. Hillman, the program director, generously took the time out of her day to give me a tour of the ED and tell me about their incredible support for underserved populations. UMKC has fantastic opportunities in event medicine and EMS work. Outside of the hospital, life is pretty sweet. I’m engaged to my absolute best friend, Reed, and our little family has two adorable shelter pups, Archie and Maple. In my downtime, you’ll probably catch me with a Diet Dr. Pepper in hand, trying my luck at every claw machine I come across, or getting way too invested in Family Feud. Fernando Hernandez, M.D. Undergradyate: University of Oklahoma Hello there! I was born in Cuauhtémoc, Chihuahua, Mexico and raised in Oklahoma City. I’d wanted to become a doctor from a young age but I was first exposed to Emergency Medicine right after high school after finishing my EMT-B certification at my local community college the summer before beginning college. I attended the University of Oklahoma (Boomer Sooner) where I majored in biology. During my time in undergrad I worked as an emergency department tech at my local ED for three years. Following undergrad I was accepted into the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine where I continued to learn more about and develop a passion for Emergency Medicine. I was impressed with UMKC’s long history of excellence, collaborative spirit, and dedication to the underserved community they care for. Outside of medicine you’ll find me watching movies with friends, enjoying a good book, going to concerts, exploring new restaurants, and looking for new places to travel to. Ryan Hoffman, D.O. Undergraduate: William Jewell College I grew up in Kearney, MO, and have roots in the northland of Kansas City. I studied biochemistry at William Jewell College where I competed in the combined events for the track and field team. I then ventured south to Joplin for medical school. While in school, I worked part-time as an EMT at Lawson Fire and Rescue where my interest in emergency medicine was bolstered. Some of my favorite hobbies include road cycling, running, water sports, vegetable gardening, and grilling. BBQ and Boulevard are a couple of my favorite Kansas City hallmarks that pair especially well when supporting the Royals and Chiefs. It is a privilege to train close to home at a program that has built a strong reputation in emergency medicine and service to the community for over 50 years. Grant Johnson, M.D. Undergraduate: University of Kansas I was originally born in Bismarck, ND and moved to Overland Park in 2010. I studied evolutionary biology during my undergraduate degree at KU in Lawrence, while performing research in the field of Herpetology. I wanted to pursue emergency medicine due to my passion for treating others, specifically those experiencing more acute pathology. Additionally, I love the adrenaline, fast-pace, and occasional chaos of the department. My amazing girlfriend, Aditi, is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in breast cancer pathology with a focus on DCIS. In our spare time we enjoy cooking, crafting cocktails, and exploring the food/bar scene of KC metro. We also care for a German-Shepard mix who loves going for hikes and to BAR K. When not working, I may also be traveling and trying to immerse myself in every culture imaginable. Steven Lambou, D.O. Undergraduate: Louisiana State University Hey y’all, I’m Steven Lambou, born and raised in south Louisiana. I grew up near New Orleans with a bunch of rowdy siblings and a love for fishing, sports, and the great outdoors. LSU was my stomping ground for undergrad, Geaux Tigahs! This is where I met my wife, a fellow LSU student hailing from Arkansas. We were both premed, and when she got into medical school at UAMS, I tagged along. Austin Rieth, D.O. Undergraduate: Newman University – Wichita KS I was born and raised in Springfield MO, went to college in Wichita KS where I ran cross country, attended medical school in Denver and finally ended up in Laramie Wyoming for my clinical rotations where I got to finally be with my fiancé, Zoe in her last years of Law school at the University of Wyoming (Go Pokes). After all this travel, we are happy to finally end up in our home state in exciting Kansas City. Being the safety net and county hospital with a focus on serving the underserved, along with being a renowned, well-established institution, UMKC really stood out and checked all the boxes for me. In my free time I enjoy golfing, skiing, watching football, playing video games, getting overly competitive in rec-league sports, and taking our two Aussies, Blue and Sage on hikes. Alison Sanchez, M.D. Undergraduate: University of Colorado Denver I’m from a small town in Southern Colorado. I adventured north to Denver for college and home again to work as an EMT during my gap years, which really nurtured my love for emergency medicine. My journey then led me from the mountains of Colorado to Kansas City with my fiancé and our growing family to attend the University of Kansas SOM. We have two little boys, Jacoby and Isaac, and three rambunctious pups, Bailey, Ziggy, and Samson. We have fallen in love with Kansas City and are so excited to be staying here for residency at UMKC. When we have some free time we are equal parts adventure and couch potato. Some days we explore new parks, go bowling or grab a bite to eat and others we stay at home and watch sports or Disney+ with the kids. Brenda Scharnhorst, D.O. Undergraduate: Undergraduate: University Missouri Kansas City As a native Kansas Citian, I am excited to be reuniting with my significant other of 14 years, family, and friends. I wear red on Red Friday and love to catch a Royals game on a hot summer night. I have deep roots in the Kansas City area and was heavily involved in safety net, not-for-profit, and grassroots organizations throughout the metro prior to leaving for medical school. After graduating with a B.A. in Chemistry and Spanish from UMKC. I worked as a Medical Immigration Exam Specialist and as a scribe at a community family practice in KCK for 5 years. During this same time, I was an executive board member and a medical volunteer with the Coalition of Hispanic Women Against Cancer (CHWAC). Assisting with free/low-cost pap smears, breast exams, and mammograms. In addition, I donated my time to the JAYD.O.C Free Health Clinic. Was an English tutor at the Keeler Women’s Center. And attempted to combat food insecurity with the Migrant Farmworkers Assistance Fund. After starting medical school at Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine in Las Cruces, NM I was able to continue this humanistic work by volunteering on the U.S.-Mexico border in the Asylum seekers shelter. On account of the above exposure, I knew exactly what I wanted in a residency program. A program that served undocumented, uninsured, persons living on the streets, and those held captive by addiction. One with a patient population that was culturally, socioeconomically, racially, sexually, spiritually, and legally diverse. As well as one that would prepare me for any life-threatening trauma that came through the door. University Health-Truman checked all the boxes. Lastly, in my leisure time, I am a passionate CrossFitter always trying to build more muscle and increase my endurance. As well as a lover of hiking, especially in the mountains, so just ask, my shoes are already in my car. Logan Schmidt, D.O. I was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri. I went to Kansas City University for medical school. I spent the last four years living in Kansas City, and I am excited to join the UMKC EM family. When applying for residency I wanted a program with supportive faculty, a strong reputation, and to stay close to family. In my free time, I like to stay busy playing sports (slow-pitch softball, soccer, golf), traveling, and spending time with friends and family. Madison Walker, M.D. Undergraduate: University of Missouri – Kansas City, School of Medicine I’m from St. Louis and moved to Kansas City to complete UMKC’s six-year B.A./M.D. program. I fell in love with Kansas City and its people. During medical school, I got married and had two wonderful boys. I also volunteered at UMKC’s student run free clinic, Sojourner Health Clinic, which helped me find my passion for helping the underserved population. I knew I wanted to stay at UMKC for residency due to its strong history of producing compassionate, well-practiced EM physicians. On my days off, I enjoy taking the family to the Kansas City Zoo or Science City! I also enjoy seeing the food and sports of Kansas City take off, giving the city a lively feel. Jacob Andersen, D.O. Undergraduate: Rhodes College Hey y’all, I’m Jacob Andersen. Though I was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, I’ve called Arkansas home for the last 10 years or so (with a brief move to Memphis to study International Studies & play football). My love for emergency medicine was solidified long before my time at ARCOM, when I spent my high school summers shadowing the local Emergency Department. I continued to work in ERs throughout college, and volunteered at Mission Waco & the Arkansas Mobile Opioid Recovery unit during my gap year. These experiences helped ignite my passion for working within underserved communities and specifically with those battling addiction. UMKC stuck out to me for residency because of its role as a safety net hospital with a strong commitment to the underserved community, strong history of excellence, and supportive culture. Jenna Cook, D.O. Undergraduate: California State University – Fullerton Hi, I'm Jenna! I grew up just outside of Los Angeles but have called Kansas City home since 2020. When I had the chance to audition at UMKC, I jumped at it and it didn’t take long to realize this was the place for me. The supportive faculty, welcoming resident culture, and the hospital’s vital role as a safety-net institution made it an easy decision. My life outside of medicine stays busy with my girlfriend, Annie, and our two dogs, Moose and Bruski. We’re usually knee-deep in a DIY home project or exploring KC’s food scene, kayaking, fishing or searching for treasures at estate sales and First Weekends in West Bottoms. Undergraduate: Texas Christian University I grew up in Lenexa, Kansas, and went to an all-girls high school before heading to TCU for college (Go Frogs!). After graduating, I worked as a medical assistant and then attended William Carey College of Osteopathic Medicine in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. I’m super excited to be back home in Kansas City as I take the next step in my medical career. Bree Dulaney, M.D. Undergraduate: University of Arkansas at Fayetteville Hi there! I’m Bree Dulaney, a proud Arkansan through and through, and like a true Arkansan I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville (Go Hogs!) and earned my medical degree from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. Now, I’m thrilled to be in Kansas City for residency. When exploring programs, UMKC immediately stood out for its strong commitment to serving the underserved, paired with the strength and resources of a respected academic institution. Health advocacy and addressing health disparities are passions of mine, and I’m excited to continue that work here at UMKC. Outside of medicine, I’m a total foodie who’s always on the hunt for new restaurants to try. I also love catching the latest movies, enjoying live theatre and concerts, and traveling to new destinations whenever I can. Undergraduate: Washington State University I'm from Seattle but originally moved to Denver after finishing my undergraduate degree. I worked as an ED tech in Denver for years before getting my Masters and going on to medical school. I completed medical school at KCU and have loved my time in KC. UMKC has a strong history as an urban, safety-net hospital serving the people of KC and are truly mission driven in training competent and compassionate EM physicians. I couldn't be more excited to have matched here. In my free time I like to get outdoors with my dog, workout, read and explore new restaurants around town. Quinn Johnshoy, M.D. Undergraduate: Regis University Hi everyone! I’m Quinn. I’m from Aurora, Colorado and got my bachelor’s degree in Spanish and Biology from Regis University in Denver. During and after college, I worked in the University of Colorado. emergency department as a medical scribe and a tech, that’s where I discovered my love for emergency medicine. From there, I moved to the Chicago area to attend medical school at Loyola. I really tried to keep an open mind about potential specialties during clinical rotations, but I found that emergency medicine truly was the best fit for me. I’m looking forward to completing my residency at UMKC and seeing why everyone loves living in Kansas City! In my free time, I’m usually reading (or tracking my reading on a spreadsheet), sewing, going for a jog, playing with my cat Maxwell (pictured), or watching a Colorado. Avalanche game. Alana Lemke, D.O. Undergraduate: University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire Hello! During my fourth year of medical school, I completed an audition rotation at Truman and immediately felt at home. I was drawn to the strong sense of community, as well as the opportunity to train in a mixed academic and urban environment. I love exploring new cities, and am excited to call Kansas City my next home! I spend my free time do.ing the stereotypical Emergency Medicine adjacent hobbies of rock climbing, horseback riding, and skiing (downhill and cross country). I also enjoy baking,and trying to keep my sourdough starter alive. Chloe Myers, D.O. Undergraduate: University of Kansas Hello everyone, my name is Chloe. I’m from Kansas originally but spent most of my younger life, traveling the world for tennis. Injuries took me out of the game and I went back to school to study exercise science at the University of Kansas where I met my husband, Matt. Together we have two cats (Sarabi and Berlioz) and one dog (Nala). Yes, I gave them all Disney names because Disney is my favorite! I chose UMKC because of our shared passion for serving the underserved and those who have no voice. A verse that reminds me of my purpose in medicine is Luke 5:31-32 In my spare time, I love traveling, going on adventures with Nala, working out, and spending time with my family. Benjamin Silvester, M.D. Undergraduate: Brigham Young University I was born and raised in Utah. I went to BYU, where I majored in neuroscience and then went on to medical school at BYU's rival, the University of Utah. I have a wonderful wife, Sariah, who also went to the University of Utah for her master's degree in violin performance, and we have two energetic boys, Ephraim and Isaiah, who keep us on the move. Outside of medicine, I enjoy arm wrestling, playing guitar, skiing, BBQ, and picking up new hobbies whenever I get the chance. I'm very excited to begin residency at UMKC, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the people of Kansas City. Daniel Terry, M.D. Undergraduate: Washington University, St. Louis Hello! I was born and raised in the St. Louis area and moved back to Missouri for college after finishing high school in the lovely (and snowy) state of Michigan. Despite my newfound love of skiing, moving back to Missouri allowed me to be closer to my family. Prior to pursuing my M.D., I earned a Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance in 2017 with the intention of pursuing a career as an opera singer and choral conductor. My route to medicine was circuitous but rewarding; after much soul searching, I realized that my heart was drawn toward caring for the sick. That draw led me to earn a post-baccalaureate certificate in Premedical Studies at Washington University, St. Louis, which I pursued while working in Ophthalmology for the School of Medicine. Though I may have had a circuitous route, my background in humanities has helped me build connections and trust with my patients; and, seeing patients every day was the best motivation to study Taylor Umbarger, M.D. Undergraduate: University of Central Arkansas I was born and raised in Rogers, Arkansas but spent many holidays and weekends with my family in Kansas City. I attended UCA where I completed my Bachelor’s in Biology with a minor in Interdisciplinary Studies. During college, I attended a course in Wilderness First Response with the University of Colorado. I also was Director of UCA’s Colleges Against Cancer and Relay for Life event with the American Cancer Society for two years after serving as a committee member for two years prior. While in medical school, I met my mentor in emergency medicine at the beginning of my second year. I immediately felt like I belonged in the ER and fell in love with the good, the bad, and the ugly of EM. With UMKC, it was also love at first sight. I felt like I had found my people during my interview as they were/are so incredibly welcoming and kind. Outside of the ER, you can find me in a lap pool, curled up in chair with a book, or at Korean barbecue. If all else fails, I’m probably at a coffee shop… or two… or three.
Med School: Kansas City University, KCMO
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University Debusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Medical School: UMKC – Kansas City, MO
Medical School: Des Moines University – Des Moines, IA
Medical School: University of Kansas School of Medicine (Kansas City, KS)
Medical School: Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine, Fort Smith, AR
Medical School: University of Missouri, Kansas City – Kansas City, MO
Medical School: Kansas City University — Kansas City, MO
Medical School: Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine Tulsa Oklahoma
Medical School: A.T Still Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine – Kirksville, Missouri
Medical School: Kansas City University, Kansas City, MO
Undergraduate: Iowa State University
Medical School: AT Still University, Kirksville, MO
Medical School: University of Oklahoma College of Medicine
Medical School: Kansas City University
Medical School: University of Kansas
Medical School: NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine in Jonesboro, Arkansas
I landed at NYIT College of Osteopathic Medicine in Jonesboro, Arkansas, for my own medical journey. Arkansas opened up a whole new world of duck hunting, trout fishing, and lazy days on the Buffalo River. My first 4th-year rotation was at UMKC, and I knew it was the right place for me. Now, we’re in Kansas where my wife is in a general surgery residency at KU. On my free time, I will find any excuse to tailgate, boil up some crawfish, or get out on the water and drop a line. My wife and I love to spend time with our rescue pups, Abita and Pebbles, listen to live music, and kick back with friends over a cold one.
Medical School: Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine – Parker CO
Medical School: University of Kansas School of Medicine
Medical School: Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine in Las Cruces, NM
Medical School: University of Missouri – Kansas City, School of Medicine
Medical School: Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine
I am blessed to be married to my best friend, Amanda, with whom we have two dogs – Riley and Ellie. In my free time, you can catch me checking out the local breweries and restaurants, hanging out with my friends and family, and cheering on my Oklahoma Sooners.
Medical School: Kansas City University
Alexis Cucchiara, D.O.
Medical School: William Carey College of Osteopathic Medicine
I come from a big family — I have a twin sister, an older sister, and a younger brother — and my parents still live in Kansas with their two very spoiled Bernese Mountain dogs. Outside of medicine, I love spending time with friends and family, traveling, and finding new adventures — I’ve even been skydiving twice (and would absolutely go again!).
I’m excited for the next phase of my career in Kansas City and the experiences it will bring.
Medical School: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Aaron Graves, D.O.
Medical School: Kansas City University
Medical School: Loyola University Chicago
Medical School: Des Moines University
I’m originally from White Bear Lake, Minnesota, and completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire, where I majored in Biology and German. Before medical school, I spent five years working in event EMS, which solidified my passion for emergency medicine early on.
Medical School: Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine
“Jesus answered them, ‘Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do. I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners and need to repent.’”
Medical School: Spencer Fox Eccles School of Medicine at the University of Utah
Medical School: University of Missouri, Kansas City School of Medicine
Medical School: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences