Shereece Clarke, M.D.

Medical School: University of the West Indies, Mona Jamaica

Bio: Hello there, I’m Shereece! I’m from the beautiful island of Jamaica, which I like to think of as the diamond of the Caribbean *wink wink*. Before coming here to pursue my dream of being an OBGYN, I spent my formative years there, and I’m thrilled about this fantastic opportunity! I’m a lover of nature, nice restaurants, music, and most of all, I value family time; it keeps me grounded. I’m excited about moving to Kansas City, exploring new locales, meeting new people, and adopting a new way of life. I chose UMKC because how could you not want Dr. Morales as your PD? He’s the best! Also, what really captivated me was the warmth of the UMKC family. It’s very rare you see residents genuinely happy despite the challenges that comes with residency. I’m looking forward to the next four years of residency and what life has to offer in general.

Plan after residency: I’d love to do fellowship, as I’m very passionate about mentorship, so I do see myself in an academic setting. Above all, I’d love to start a family of my own.

Yasmin Dias, M.D.

Medical School:  Faculdades Integradas Pitágoras (FIP-MOC)

Bio: Hello! I’m Yasmin and I grew up in a small town in Brazil, Vitoria da Conquista. After graduating from medical school, I moved to the US to pursue my dream of becoming an OBGYN. Over the past year, I have been living in St. Louis, where I had the invaluable opportunity to engage in clinical OBGYN rotations and research at Washington University. I am excited to continue my journey at UMKC and immerse myself in the friendly Midwest culture I have grown to love! The program stood out to me due to the program’s commitment to serving underserved populations, quality faculty, supportive and friendly residents and a dedicated program director. I look forward to exploring everything Kansas City has to offer. In my spare time, I love outdoor activities! I enjoy hiking, beach volleyball, and jogging in local parks. I also love traveling the world and discovering new restaurants and bars with my husband.

Plans after residency: I’m currently undecided. I am particularly drawn to pursuing a career in an academic environment while continuing to serve a diverse patient population.

Kaley Ferguson, M.D.

Medical School:  University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

Bio: Hey! I’m Kaley, and I’m from Hot Springs, Arkansas. I went to the University of Arkansas (WOO PIG!) for undergrad where I studied Public Health. After that, I moved to Little Rock for medical school at UAMS. My husband and I have two cats, Ginsburg and Mobius, and an almost 2-year-old son who keeps us very busy! We spend most of our time at the zoo, Science City, or playing outside! I fell in love with OBGYN because of the variety of the field and the opportunity to advocate for my patients, and I was really drawn to UMKC because of the diverse patient population. I also love the location and the tight-knit, supportive residents who already feel like family! I am so excited to be in Kansas City and to be training at UMKC for residency, and I can’t wait to see what the next four years hold!

After residency:  I love the variety that general OBGYN has to offer, so I’m currently planning to be a generalist after residency! BUUUUT I do really love obstetrics and really really love nights, so maybe a laborist or nocturnist eventually? I’m also very passionate about family planning and reproductive advocacy, and I’d like to incorporate those things into my future practice! Clearly, I don’t have a very solid plan. Good thing I have a few years to figure it out, right? For now, I just want to learn as much as possible and experience all the incredible variety OBGYN has to offer!

Alex Franco, M.D.

Med School: Saba University School of Medicine

Bio: Hi, I’m Alex! I was born and raised in Vancouver, Canada. I did my undergrad at the University of British Columbia, where I studied Biology. I worked for a non-profit organization for a couple of years before starting medical school at Saba University School of Medicine – the island of Saba had three of my favorite things… the sun, ocean, and hiking! During my clinical years, I completed a few rotations in Kansas City and absolutely loved the city and more importantly the people and the BBQ! In my free time, I love doing all the outdoorsy things, especially hiking. But I also love a good binge watching session of a true crime docuseries or a murder mystery series. I’m a huge foodie and am always on the lookout for restaurant recommendations and happy hours to enjoy. I am excited to be a part of the UMKC OBGYN family and know that the next four years will be quite the adventure!

Plans after residency: For now, I’m leaning towards becoming a generalist but I’m definitely open to pursuing fellowship if that’s where my future interests lead me!

Melissa Godar, M.D.

Medical School: University of Missouri – Kansas City

Bio: Hello! I’m Melissa, and I’m originally from the small town of Hardin, IL. I went to Mizzou in Columbia, MO for undergrad where I studied Biology. After falling in love with Kansas City during medical school, I decided to stay here for residency! My fiancé, Joshua, and I enjoy spending time with our small dog, Piper. In my free time, I love crocheting, playing pickleball, disc golf, weightlifting, reading, cooking, and indulging in reality TV. I chose this residency program because of the supportive community of residents and the diverse patient population it serves. I feel at home here every day and am excited to grow and learn in such a strong program.

After residency: I’m drawn to the variety that comes with being a generalist, but I’m also open to the possibility of pursuing a fellowship!

Maitri Makwana, M.D.

Medical School: Saba University School of Medicine

Bio: Hello! I’m Maitri (my-three), and I’m thrilled to be a part of the UMKC family! Originally from a small town outside Toronto, ON, I spent the first two years of medical school (and COVID) on the beautiful island of Saba in the Dutch Caribbean. My clinical rotations took me on a nomadic journey across the States, but I felt instantly at home in Kansas City during my OB/GYN rotations.
I fell in love with KC’s vibrant culture, green spaces, and endless activities. But most importantly, it was the people —the ride-or-die residents who looked after one another, the faculty who supported and challenged their growth, and the diverse patient population that made each day meaningful.
When I’m not in scrubs, you can find me planning my next hike, dancing with friends, or exploring cute coffee shops. Though I’m not typically into sports, I’m excited to dive into the KC spirit and cheer on the Chiefs this season —I’ve been told it’s a big deal!

After residency: I’m passionate about working with underserved communities in an academic setting and continuing QI research. Whether I practice the full breadth of OB/GYN as a generalist or specialize in a particular area, only time will tell! The possibilities are endless and I’m excited for the journey ahead!

Maggie Witt, M.D.

Medical School: Saint Louis University

Bio: Hi! My name is Maggie and I’m from Springfield, MO. I went to Rockhurst University for undergrad in KC where I studied Biochemistry and Medical Ethics, and then I went across the state to Saint Louis University School of Medicine where my love for OBGYN blossomed. I’ve lived in every big city in Missouri, and Kansas City is by far my favorite (it helps that I have 4 siblings and 9 “niblings” who live here too)! I love to be outdoors and I am an avid runner, hiker, camper, and hammocker (one of my favorite spots to hammock is Loose Park). I also love to go to concerts and have a large album collection— I always love hearing suggestions for new music! When I get home from work, I like to watch Real Housewives (especially Beverly Hills but I’m not picky). I’m so excited to be at UMKC working with the kindest co-residents and learning from a very diverse and challenging patient population!

Plans after residency: I am currently interested in pursuing a career in Urogynecology/ FPMRS but I would also enjoy a career as a general OB/GYN. I am looking forward to a career where I can build strong relationships with patients from a diverse population and hopefully incorporate global health into my practice.

Rachel Zussman, M.D.

Medical School: University of Illinois College of Medicine—Peoria

Bio: Hi everyone! My name is Rachel and I grew up in Rockford, Illinois. I went to the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities for undergrad and then found myself back in Illinois for medical school at the University of Illinois College of Medicine–Peoria. I knew I wanted to move to a midsize city within the Midwest for residency and Kansas City fit the bill! I was particularly drawn to UMKC due to the unique opportunity to train at a county hospital within an academic institution.
I had only been to Kansas City once prior to matching, so I am looking forward to exploring all of the restaurants, coffee shops, and running paths that the city has to offer. I am also excited to live in a place that is so passionate about football and I’m working on becoming a Chiefs fan! In my free time, you’ll find me running, biking, working out, playing pickleball, watching reality TV, and spending time with my family and friends.

Plans after residency: I foresee myself becoming a generalist after residency because the variety of OBGYN was a large reason that I was so drawn to the field. But I am keeping my options open!

Avery Day, M.D.

Medical school: University of Missouri-Kansas City

Bio: Hello! I’m Avery and I am originally from a small town outside Springfield, MO. I went to Mizzou for undergrad (MIZ!) where I studied biomedical engineering and then worked for a year as a scribe. After that, I moved to Kansas City for medical school here at UMKC! My husband, Zane, and I have two dogs, Vinnie and Nina, who keep us busy. I also spend my time doing yoga, knitting, hanging at the lake, or cheering for the Kansas City Chiefs! I am super excited to be staying at UMKC for residency after falling in love with the program during my rotations here as a student. I wanted a strong academic program that serves a diverse patient population with quality faculty and a tight-knit group of residents; UMKC has all that and more! I truly felt valued and at home even as a student, and I am excited for the next four years!

Plans after residency: I am currently planning to pursue a fellowship in Maternal Fetal Medicine, but I could also see myself practicing as a generalist! Regardless, I would like to work in academic medicine and continue to work with underserved populations.

Lauren Farley, M.D.

Medical school: Saint Louis University

Bio: Hi, my name is Lauren Farley! I am originally from West St. Paul, Minnesota, but am no stranger to Missouri. I went to Saint Louis University for undergrad and medical school, so I am excited to now be on this side of the state! I like watching sports of all types and am excited to cheer on the Chiefs this fall. In my free time I like to go on walks and bike rides and be outdoors. I also have a growing collection of indoor and outdoor house plants and anticipate that it will keep expanding in the next few years. Living right in the middle of KC, I am looking forward to exploring all of the fun restaurants and breweries nearby. I was really drawn to UMKC’s residency program because of the location, diverse patient population, kind and friendly residents and wonderful PD, and I am so excited to be here for residency!

Plans after residency: At the moment, I am thinking about a career as a general OB/GYN or pursuing a MFM fellowship after residency. I would love to have the opportunity to work with a diverse patient population and include global health as a part of my practice. I’d like to continue in an academic role, where I can continue to teach and learn among a fantastic team.

Kendra Garetson, M.D.

Medical School: University of Kansas

Residency: University of Arizona-Phoenix

Bio: Hello! I’m Kendra, and it’s so good to meet you! I grew up in Kansas and attended KU for undergrad and medical school. I got my bachelor’s degree in microbiology with a minor in Spanish. +I also worked as an RA and sang in the choir for 2 years, where I met my husband Jayden. We got married the winter before I started medical school. He is my biggest supporter, even of my random hobbies and side projects. We have a baby girl, Annilee, who is fiercely strong-willed. Most of my free time is dedicated to the two of them, but when I can, I enjoy gardening, playing sand volleyball, painting, and reading poorly written mystery novels. Family is super important to me, and since my family lives near KC, I knew I wanted to stay here for my residency training. Not only that, but I was wildly impressed with the UMKC OB/GYN program. Dr. Morales and the current residents prioritize patient advocacy, access to care for underserved populations, and resident teaching opportunities- all top priorities for me when choosing a program. Everyone has told me the days will be long, but the years will be short. So, I am hopeful I will soak in the opportunities that await me over the next four years, and I can’t wait to see how I grow professionally and personally.

Plans after residency: I don’t have solid plans. I will likely practice as a generalist, but I really love MFM. I hope to do both rural medicine and academic medicine throughout my career, so we will simply have to wait and see what happens.

Sawyer Hickey, M.D.

Medical School: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

Bio: Hey! I’m Sawyer Hickey and I am so excited to begin residency at UMKC! I am originally from Texarkana, Arkansas but have called Central Arkansas home for the last 8 years. I attended The University of Central Arkansas for Undergrad and then the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences for Medical School. When I started medical school OBGYN was not on my radar, but after my rotations I knew that it was the place for me! I love mountain biking, hiking, and generally being outside with my bestie “aka my dog Bear.” I also really enjoy hunting for mid-century antiques and going to farmers markets. Having only been to Kansas City one time before matching at UMKC, I am so excited to see what all the city has to offer! During my interview day and since then, I have seen how wonderful all the residents are. They have such a close-knit community that I am so excited to be a part of!

Plans after residency: Generalist? Fellowship? Who knows. Stay tuned to find out!

Edna A. Lopez Martinez, M.D.

Medical School: Tecnologico de Monterrey – Escuela de Medicina

Bio: Hey there! My name is Edna and I grew up in a teensy town in Tamaulipas, Mexico. After graduating from medical school I moved to the US to reunite with my family, who had to leave Mexico due to cartel violence, and to continue pursuing my dream of becoming an OBGYN. I am beyond excited to be joining the UMKC family. Everyone has been extremely welcoming and I can’t wait to get to know all of my fellow residents and explore everything Kansas City has to offer. In my spare time you’ll find me at the gym (I love Olympic lifting and CrossFit), spending time with my cats (the handsome fella in the picture is named Mallow), gaming, or watching anime.

Plans after residency: I am currently undecided on what I’d like to do after residency. Although the idea of pursuing a fellowship in GynOnc definitely interests me, I don’t think I would be able to give up the amazing variety that being a generalist has to offer. Regardless of my choice, I’m confident this program will prepare me for any challenges that come my way!

Allyson Rowe, M.D.

Medical School: University of Oklahoma-Tulsa

Bio: Hi y’all! I’m originally from the small town of Inola, Oklahoma. I moved to Tulsa for undergrad, and stuck around for medical school at OU’s School of Community Medicine. I had some amazing mentors there who spoke highly of UMKC, and when I interviewed, I saw for myself how welcoming and passionate everyone is! I’m really interested in community medicine and working with underserved populations, and I’m excited to continue to learn and grow at UMKC. I’m also passionate about trauma-informed and LGBTQ+ affirming healthcare! Outside of work, I love to cook and bake, read, and explore the local art and thrift scene with my partner Ian. We’re KCMO newbies, and are always down to try recommendations!

Plans after residency: Right now, I’m leaning towards a career as an academic generalist, but I’m open to exploring everything OB/GYN has to offer, so stay tuned!

Mason Sifford, M.D., M.P.H.

Medical School: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

Bio: Hey everyone! I grew up in Little Rock, Arkansas and went to undergrad at Hendrix College in Conway, AR where I got my bachelor’s in biochemistry. During medical school at UAMS, I spent an additional year getting an MPH so that I could couple’s match with my wife, Jessica. In my free time, I enjoy hiking with my two dogs, Hercules and Apollo, cooking, and doing obstacle course races (I’ve done a Spartan race the last 5 years now).

Plans after residency: I know I want to stay in academics and am strongly considering pursuing a fellowship. I’ve worked with underserved populations for a large portion of my time in school and hope to continue this work in my career.

Tai Zollars, D.O., M.S.

Medical School: Kansas City University

Bio: Hello! My name is Tai (like tie your shoes) and I grew up in Monte Vista, a rural southern Colorado town. Growing up I had many animals, but my favorite were my goats! After high school I attended Nebraska Wesleyan University where I continued my love for running by joining the cross country and track team. I met my partner while attending school in Lincoln and then moved to Omaha where I earned a Master of Science in Anatomy at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. I enjoyed living “the good life,” for over 6 years before making my way down to Kansas City for medical school. I fell in love with the city and was shocked by the endless entertainment options, great food scene, and abundant running/biking trails. I love being able to access all the city life amenities but also being able to drive 10-15 minutes to get small-town community feels. Spending time at UMKC as a medical student, I saw how impactful close-knit working relationships were to a healthy work environment. I am so happy to be able to stay for the next four years as part of the UMKC family and serve my local community.

When I do manage to find some free time, you’ll find me snuggled up on the couch reading or binging the latest reality tv show, adventuring at local parks/trails with my dog (Leo), trying to keep my plants alive, or working on the latest home makeover project.

Plans after residency: I’ve always had a passion for working with underserved communities as well as global health outreach. I hope to be able to incorporate those in my future practice as an Ob/Gyn generalist. However, who knows, I might fall in love with a subspeciality during residency. I’ll be keeping my options open and am excited to learn all that this specialty has to offer!

Jared Bodine, D.O., MBA

Medical School: Kansas City University

Bio: Hi! I’m Jared. I was born and raised in Orem, Utah where I dedicated most of my early years to playing sports like soccer, basketball, and golf. After high school I lived in Mexico City for two years and then finished my undergrad at BYU. While at BYU I reunited with my high school sweetheart (depends on which one you ask) and got married. We now have three daughters and one studly son! Our hands are full! We have lived in Kansas City for the past 5 years where I earned my DO/MBA at Kansas City University (Rockhurst for the MBA).

I can’t emphasize enough how thrilled I was to match here! There were three things that absolutely won me over. Dr. Morales is the best PD that I interacted/interviewed with. Period. The residents ACTUALLY like each other here. No wait. They LOVE each other! The program has built the expectation that your co-residents, nurses, staff, and attendings work hard AND enjoy their work on a daily basis. I didn’t find that elsewhere. And lastly, I knew that I could get the high risk, high volume training that I was after, with patients that I adore! As a plus, I also love Kansas City. When I’m not at work, I spend my time exploring the city with my family, playing pickle ball, spike ball, basketball, ping pong, exercising, movie watching, mentoring youth, writing, and doing nerdy things like genealogy.

Plans after residency: I plan to pursue an MFM fellowship! I ultimately would love to work in either an academic setting or private practice. We will see!

Brettany DeMier, M.D.

Medical School: St. Louis University

Bio: Hi! My name is Brettany DeMier and I was born and raised in Springfield, MO. I left the state to attend the University of Tulsa for undergrad and then returned to attend medical school at St. Louis University. I am a midwesterner, through and through, and I am so lucky to be able to serve the patient population of KCMO at UMKC! I moved here with my boyfriend Eric, and we thought the stress of a move and residency wasn’t enough, so we adopted two kittens: Rosemary and Sage. In my free time, I love to get together with my co-interns and throw dinner parties! My soft pretzels are a delicacy I have yet to share with my resident family, but I’m sure it won’t be too long before I make those. I fell in love with this program not only for the people, but also for the incredibly dedicated Program Director, and the balance of resident autonomy with built in support structures. I can’t wait for these next 4 years of learning and fun!

Plans after residency: While I am undecided on what I would like to do after residency, I originally was convinced I wanted to go into Gen Surg (before my OBGYN rotation of course). Due to my love of surgery, I would like to keep the door open for a fellowship in MIGS or Urogyn. I am also passionate about reproductive advocacy, and am interested in a fellowship in Family Planning. Regardless of my exact plan, I feel confident that I would like to continue in an academic role, where I can continue to teach and learn among a fantastic team.

Emily Fahr, M.D.

Medical School: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

Bio: Hi! I’m Emily and I’m so excited to start my internship at UMKC. I’m from Conway, Arkansas and I attended the University of Alabama for undergrad before coming back to Arkansas for medical school. I fell in love with OB/GYN after scrubbing my first c-section and never looked back! I love the variety of the field and the opportunity to advocate for my patients. I chose UMKC because of the comradery that I could see between the residents during my interview day and how supportive the faculty was. In my free time I enjoy napping with my kittens, Pickle and Goose, and caring for my ever-growing collection of plants.

Plans after residency: I’m currently undecided on whether to pursue a fellowship or practice as a generalist. I can’t wait to get more experience with general OB/GYN and subspecialties for the next four years!

Samantha Karlow, M.D.

Medical School: Emory University

Bio: Hello! I’m Samantha, and I grew up in St. Louis, MO. The Midwest has always been close to my heart! I studied dance and psychology at Washington University in St. Louis, and I enjoyed combining science with the arts through my education. After that, I worked in child psychiatry research for a few years. I headed south to complete medical school at Emory University, where I fell in love with OB/GYN. Outside of work, you can find me practicing yoga, cooking (usually homemade pizza), and getting outside as much as I can.
UMKC first caught my eye because it was close to my family in the Midwest. When I dug deeper, I discovered a group of residents and faculty that truly supports each other and loves taking care of their patients. I also wanted to work with an underserved patient population in an urban setting, so UMKC checked all my boxes! I was thrilled to match here, and I have loved getting to know everyone and exploring my new city.

Plans after residency: I definitely see myself staying in the academic setting, most likely as a generalist. I would love to continue working with and advocating for underserved patients, and I hope to incorporate family planning care into my future practice.

Kirsten McLane, M.D.

Medical School: University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas

Bio: I grew up in a tiny town in northeast Texas. After high school I moved a little further south to attend Baylor University (Sic Em’ Bears), where I studied Medical Humanities. In 2016 I relocated to Fort Collins, Colorado for a few years to attend Colorado State University, where I received a Masters degree in Biomedical Science. I completed medical school in San Antonio, Texas and I am really excited to be joining the UMKC family! I haven’t explored Kansas City much but I am ready to check out all the city has to offer. In my spare time you can probably find me hanging out with my friends or my cat, backpacking/hiking, biking, watching football or hockey, and also caring for the many plants I have acquired since 2020. It was clear during my interview that the residents here are happy and genuinely care about one another, that is one of the many reasons I was drawn here. The diverse patient population and exposure to academic and private practice medicine was important too.

Plans after residency: It is really hard to say right now but I am thinking general OBGYN, likely in an academic setting. I am passionate about global health and policy so something involving those is hopefully in my future too!

Kristian Ramage, M.D.

Medical School: University of Nebraska Medical Center

Bio: Hey all! I’m Kris and super honored to be a part of the UMKC family. I’m from Bellevue, NE and have spent most of my life in the Omaha area. I studied chemistry, health-sciences and biology at Wayne State College before returning home for medical school at University of Nebraska Medical Center (GO BIG RED!!!). Labor and delivery is my first love, but I’ve grown to enjoy the OR even more. I have a background in special needs education and recreational therapy and hope to continue bringing valuable services to underserved populations in KC. When I’m not busy learning all things OBGYN, you can find me trying to visit every National Park and attending any and all sporting events. My rescue cat, Thor, stays busy following my husband, Kyle, and his exciting career as an Air Force fighter pilot. I chose UMKC because I know the opportunity to treat a variety of populations and pathologies in academic and private settings is invaluable when paired with the outstanding support from our program.

Plans after residency: After residency I plan on practicing as a generalist in the many remote places the military sends us.

Allison Tigner, M.D.

Medical School: Creighton University School of Medicine

Bio: Hi all!! My name is Allison! I am originally from Maple Grove, Minnesota but I spent the last 8 years in Nebraska where I attended Creighton University for both undergrad and medical school. In my free time, I enjoy doing anything active/outdoors! My favorites include hiking, beach volleyball, tennis and pickleball. Also, as a former MN resident, I live for the lake life! A few of my guilty pleasures include wine, plants, and puzzles! I chose UMKC because of the people! I genuinely felt like the residents and faculty were so welcoming and supportive of my individual OBGYN journey. I chose to go into OBGYN because I love the diversity it provides, as well as the ability to work with and be an advocate for women. I am also super excited to be in Kansas City where I will definitely be jumping on the Kansas City Chiefs bandwagon and most likely spend my weekends exploring all the cool restaurants and breweries in the area!

Plans after residency: I am currently planning on becoming an academic generalist. I also have a particular interest in physical activity/exercise in pregnancy.

Preslie White Hammonds, M.D., M.P.H.

Medical school: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

Bio: Hey everyone! My name is Preslie, and I was born in a tiny town in northern Arkansas called Mountain Home. My family moved to Wilmington, North Carolina right before I started high school, and I went to UNC Wilmington for undergraduate school where I got my B.S. in Biology with minors in Chemistry and Neuroscience. I moved back to Little Rock, Arkansas for medical school, and received my M.D. and MPH while at UAMS. I chose UMKC for my Ob/Gyn residency for so many reasons! The residents and faculty have shown such a supportive, comfortable atmosphere, and I can really tell that everyone enjoys working and hanging out with each other. The program at UMKC provides so many opportunities for variety, autonomy, and advocacy, so I think it is the perfect place to become the best general Ob/Gyn you can be, or to prepare for fellowship! The patient population at UMKC is also a huge plus for those like me who are interested in public health and working with underserved populations. In my spare time, I love to travel and try new restaurants, bake and cook fun recipes for my friends and family, and host game/movie nights. I also have two black cats who are super cuddly and spoiled. I’m so excited to be spending residency in such a fun city with these amazing people, and I can’t wait to explore everything KC has to offer!

Plans after residency: Undecided, but for now I love the idea of becoming a general Ob/Gyn in an academic setting, and keeping all the variety that the field has to offer!

Cornita Cannon, M.D.

Medical School: Saint Louis University School of Medicine

Bio: Hello everyone, I’m Cornita! I am from Fairview Heights, Illinois, a small town in the southern part of Illinois near St. Louis, Missouri. I went to undergrad at Xavier University of Louisiana in New Orleans, Louisiana, then Saint Louis University for medical school. In my spare time, I love to go to concerts, try new restaurants, and travel. I also collect vinyl records, and I have a pretty impressive collection so far.

Additionally, I love spending time with my family and friends. I chose UMKC because I loved the familial atmosphere among the residents and faculty as well as emphasis on work life balance that I desired in a residency program. UMKC also provides great training, exposure to various aspects of Ob/Gyn, an underserved population, and fellowship opportunities. Kansas City is also close to home and provides a big city feel without the big city hassle. Also, I’m a Midwesterner at heart, so I am excited to still experience all four seasons and the fashion that goes along with that. It also offers a lot of the things I am interested in such as a great music and arts scene, wonderful food, great sports teams, and much more! I am so excited to embrace the city and get to know the amazing UMKC team which I will now call family.

Plans after residency: Currently, I am interested in a MFM fellowship; however, I could also see myself being a generalist. I am excited to explore the various fellowship options throughout residency!

Arhita Dasgupta, M.D.

Medical School: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

Bio: Hi! My name is Arhita Dasgupta. I grew up in Little Rock, Arkansas, went to the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville for undergrad, and returned to Little Rock for medical school at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences! I was drawn to OBGYN for the opportunity to learn about comprehensive medical care as well as surgery, but also because there is so much scope to advocate for our patients and their bodily autonomy. I was really drawn to UMKC because it was the only program where I felt that the PD, faculty, and residents prioritized transparency. Everybody sincerely wanted me to get a genuineidea of the kind of physician I could grow to be by joiningtheir program. It was also clear that the residents LOVED each other. I am so excited to become a part of this family. In my free time, I enjoy knitting with my kittens. I also love to cook and to try new restaurants!

Plans after residency: I am currently interested in pursuing a fellowship or becoming an academic generalist. I enjoy researching health disparities and structural determinants of health. I think this research in the context of GIS is particularly interesting!

Anmol Hans, M.D.

Medical School: Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine

Bio: Hey I’m Anmol! I grew up outside of Vancouver in Canada and my family moved to the US when I was 14. I spent my high school and college years in Washington State where I studied literature, neurobiology, and biochemistry at UW. Medical School thentook me to Michigan which established my interest in healthcare disparity, public policy, and serving marginalized communities. I’m also interested innarrative medicine and medical humanities as they incorporate everything I love about literature and the arts with the complexities of medicine.My hobbies include indulging my sweet tooth, freaking myself out withtrue crime stories, napping theday awayand clinging to vestiges of my Canadian identity by watching hockey. The UMKC program stood out as an incredibly friendly and happy group of people and a place where I felt I would be endlessly welcomed and supported. Kansas City is an awesome place, and I’m excited to explore the city more!

Plans after residency: I’mincredibly undecided about whether I’ll be a generalistor pursue a fellowship because I’m in love with everything OB/Gyn right now. Regardless, I want to gear my career towards addressing health disparities and empowering women to be active agents in their healthcare.

Henry Mishek, M.D.

Medical School: University of Nebraska Medical Center

Bio: Hello there! If you like great food, friendly people, and short commute times, the Midwest is the place to be. I was born overseas and have spent time in various countries and cultures. Honestly, it has always been a dream of mine to live in Kansas City!My journey started just a few hours north in Omaha, Nebraska when I was in the 6th grade. I went to my first Kansas City Chiefs game with my dad, and I have been to at least one game each year ever since. My wife and I are ecstatic to be closer to the stadium, the barbeque, and the vibrant culture of KC. We love attending live music, sports events, and taking our corgi Franklin on outdoor adventures. We are excited to raise our newest addition to our family, Evelyn, in a diverse and family-friendly city. Ichose UMKC because the residents were so diverse and fun to be around. I also want to work with marginalized populations in healthcare, which everyone in the program emphasized.

Plans after residency: Besides becoming a barbeque judge, I would love to be at an academic hospital as either a generalist or maybe GYN Oncology!

Janna Ochoa, M.D.

Medical School: Medical College of Wisconsin

Bio: I grew up and attended medical school in Milwaukee, WI, but I went to undergrad in Springfield, MO –so I’m excited to be returning to Missouri! I come from a large family with five kids and value the sense of a close-knit community which is one of the aspects of UMKC that I truly connected with. I’m thrilled to be joining the intern class which already feels like a group of lifelong friends. I met my husband while in medical school, and he is going into anesthesiology. The two of us love to travel, try new foods, and have a constantly growing collection of plants.

Plans after residency: I have a feeling I will pursue a fellowship, but I like too many to say which one just yet. I am passionate about global health, so that is one plan that will certainly be in my future.

Kirstyn Powell, M.D.

Medical School: Saba University School of Medicine

Bio: My name is Kirstyn (but will answer to Keer-Sten, Kristin …or even Crystal). I grew up in Saratoga Springs N.Y. attended Cornell University for undergrad and then followed my family to my current home in Chicago, IL. I took a few years off prior to medical school and dabbled in everything from living and working as a research intern in Cusco, Peru, to running the Chicago Marathon, to working as a physical therapy rehabilitation aide. I ultimately attended Saba University School of Medicine on the tiny island of Saba in the Netherlands-Antilles, and completed my clerkships at multiple hospitals in the U.S. I did the majority of my rotations at St. Luke’s in Kansas City where the OBGYN faculty and residents made me feel valued as a medical student, and became role models of the patient advocate I hope to emulate as a resident. Joining the UMKC OBGYN family was a no-brainer for me because I knew I would be supported and challenged in a place that already feels like home. Outside of the hospital I’m always down to try new breweries and restaurants. I’m so excited to finally be in one place for an extended period of time so I can adopt some plants, grow herbs to cook with and find new running routes! I’m anxiously awaiting the return of live music and being able to schedule a hiking trip to Scotland.

Plans after residency: I enjoy the challenge of managing difficult medical diagnoses within the MFM Specialty, but I also love the surgical specialties and being in the OR, so I am excited to explore these as fellowship opportunities.

Samantha Rios, M.D.

Medical School: University of Kansas School of Medicine

Bio: Hi! I’m Sammie Rios (soon to be Janssen) and I am super excited to be staying in Kansas City for residency! I was born in Iowa City, Iowa but I was raised in Olathe, KS. I went down to New Orleans, Louisiana for undergrad at Tulane University and came back to KC for medical school at KU. I initially thought I would go into pediatrics but after discovering my love for surgery and working with/advocating for women, I chose ObGyn and haven’t looked back! UMKC blew me away on interview day. The residents were a ton of fun with a strong sense camaraderie and dedication to their training. Outside of work, I live with my fiancé, Kyle, who I met six years ago when he picked me up in an Uber (yes, he was my Uber driver). We are quite the competitive sort so we loveto play cards, golf (poorly) together, go skiing, and were recently inspired by The Queen’s Gambit to start playing chess. In my free time, I love to watch awful reality TV, sing really loud in my car, play sand volleyball, and eat. I can’t wait to become part of this incredible UMKC ObGyn family!

Plans after residency: I am hoping to do a fellowship in MFM or pediatric and adolescent gynecology. I would love to end up in academic medicine as I love teaching. We will see though 

Taylor Tran, M.D.

Medical School: University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine

Bio: Hi all! I’m Taylor and I am so excited to be one of the UMKC interns! I was actually born in one of our branch hospitals, TMC-Lakewood, and raised north of the city in Smithville. I stayed in KC for medical school where I completed the six-year B.A./M.D. program at UMKC. I met my significant other while in medical school when he began his Neurology residency at UMKC. We have a chunky, drooly, English Bulldog named Bella. Outside of work, I love exploring new food places (KC has an awesome food scene and of course BBQ!), lifting, hiking, and watching the latest crime documentaries. I became a true UMKC “lifer” when I decided to stay for my residency. I wanted to stay at UMKC because I love how close knit the residents are with each other and how supportive the faculty is of the residents. Also, knowing I won’t get lost in the hospitals come July 1st is a definite plus.

Plans after residency: I’d love to pursue a fellowship in Urogynecology but I’m also open to becoming a generalist. I suppose I have four years to figure this out.