Current Residents

Holly Boyum, MD 

Education: Wayne State University School of Medicine, Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN; 2022-2023, Internship

Hobbies: Spending time with my partner and our two bulldogs, Seymour & Bernard, Working out at my local gym (Skybox! It's the best), Biking/rollerblading around the lakes, Watching any and all iterations of RuPaul's Drag Race.

Why did you choose U of M for residency? I'm from Stillwater and was eager to get home to my family after moving out of state for medical school (bonus points for the built-in transitional year). I felt that the U would offer me a robust educational experience being able to experience multiple hospitals and their unique patient populations and pathologies. Leading up to my interview day and after speaking with the faculty during my interview, I also felt confident that it was a program where the leadership was earnest in their desire to support residents and promote well being in and out of the hospital. The residents seemed happy, their dynamic felt authentic and I could see myself working with them. Overall, it felt very Minnesotan to me, so it was an easy choice.

Allison Cregg, MD 

Education: University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN; 2022-2023, Internship

Hobbies: I was a violinist before medicine, so I play symphony and opera concerts along with various gigs. Love the outdoors - canoeing, backpacking, lake life, and my absolute favorite outdoor activity is skiing. Other than that I cook yummy food, play with my niece and nephew, and try to master new skills - currently tackling landscaping.

Why did you choose U of M for residency? People I vibe with that either trained here or rotated here all said good things about the program. Come rank list, I made one of those spreadsheets to put numbers to what I want in life and what programs had to offer. Priorities I have are: easy flight access, high reputation of PD/APD, skiing/outdoors close-ish, career prospects, and local arts/culture scene. Minnesota always came out top.

Ileasa Green, DO 

Education: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, Erie, Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN; 2022-2023, Internship

Hobbies: Cooking for friends, dancing, traveling to new cities, trying new restaurants, and generally going on adventures!

Why did you choose U of M for residency? After visiting Minneapolis last year, I knew this city would be a perfect city to lay down roots. Minneapolis is full of beautiful nature, great restaurants, and wonderful people. This program holds great core values, staff's amazing faculty, and is supportive. These reasons solidified my choice to come to the University of Minnesota.

Thomas Houghland, MD

Education: University of Minnesota Medical School, Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN; 2022-2023, Internship

Hobbies: Hiking the trails of Minneapolis with my wife and dog, cross country skiing at Theodore Wirth Park, road biking, going to Utepils brewery and playing guitar!

Why did you choose U of M for residency? I chose the University of Minnesota for radiology residency because I had an incredible experience with the radiology department as a medical student, and I love the city of Minneapolis! Everybody at the University of Minnesota is welcoming, supportive and enthusiastic to teach. I was also drawn to UMN for the diverse experiences that residents get between the University, Hennepin County and VA medical systems.

Mia Lundgren, MD 

Education: University of Minnesota Medical School, Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN; 2022-2023, Internship

Hobbies: Hanging with my rescue pups (Jet and Magnus), dog mushing, knitting sweaters, playing the oboe or piano, catching a concert at Orchestra Hall, being outdoors, spending time with family

Why did you choose U of M for your residency? I chose the University of Minnesota, because the radiology program offers everything I am looking for - excellent training and teaching, high volume, diverse pathology, a variety of clinical sites, and a supportive environment. Probably most importantly, I enjoyed my interactions with residents and faculty as a medical student and could see myself fitting in here. The fact that this program is in Minnesota is icing on the cake. I was born and raised in Minnesota and absolutely love this place.

Jackson Penning, MD 

Education: University of Minnesota Medical School, Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN; 2022-2023, Internship

Hobbies: Spending time with my wife and kids (often getting ice cream), golf, weight lifting, biking (commuting and recreation), home automation, encryption and cybersecurity

Why did you choose U of M for your residency? The U of M met my important considerations for training. I was impressed with the culture staff and residents have created for learning and support, and this was confirmed on day 1 of starting even the transitional year. Further, there is a broad pathology and volume base with the combination University medical center, the VA and Hennepin Healthcare that will prepare me for any practice I choose. Finally, having this opportunity close to family was important as well!

Mitchell Szymczak, DO 

Education: Western University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN; 2022-2023, Internship

Hobbies: Spending time with my family, friends, and two cats, board games, trying new restaurants, traveling.

Why did you choose U of M for residency? The people I met during my interview made me immediately want to come to the University of Minnesota for my residency. I knew it would be a place where I would have the support to make it through residency and really feel at home. Being able to do my transitional year in the same city was also a huge benefit to me. I've lived all around the country but had never been to Minnesota, so I was excited for a new adventure and new place to explore and call home!

Kristen Ward, DO

Education: Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine (RVUCOM), Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN; 2022-2023, Internship

Hobbies: Going on walks with my husband and Golden Retriever (Winnie), board games, jigsaw puzzles, reading mystery/thriller novels, naps, finding new restaurants.

Why did you choose U of M for residency? I had the opportunity to do an away rotation here as a medical student and instantly fell in love with the Twin Cities and felt like I fit in with the residents. I knew I wanted to complete my residency at a large academic center with a wide variety of pathology and high case volume, but I also wanted to find a program that emphasized work/life balance--the U easily checked both of those boxes. I couldn't be happier with my decision to pursue residency training at the University of Minnesota!

Paul Blake, MD

Education: University of Minnesota Medical School; Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN; 2021-2022, Internship

Hobbies: Going on walks and hikes with my wife and dogs, trying new restaurants, running, home improvement projects, cooking, traveling

Why did you choose U of M for residency? Having done medical school at here, I knew the University of Minnesota would provide top-notch training in a welcoming and comfortable environment.  Furthermore, Minneapolis is a great city with beautiful lakes, a great food scene, and plenty of year-round activities. Overall I knew it would be a great fit.

Nicholas Dick, MD

Education: University of Minnesota Medical School; Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN; 2021-2022, Internship

Hobbies: Backpacking, Snowboarding, Disc Golf, Board Games, Travel, Cooking with my Wife, Financial Planning and Investments, National Parks, Hockey, Leadership Philosophy, Mentoring, Music (Guitar), Reading

Why did you choose U of M for residency? UMN is known for its extremely high boards pass rate, well-rounded exposure to all aspects of the field in a large metro area academic center setting, and for producing high-caliber radiologists who go on to great fellowships and/or careers.  Of course, these were top priorities for me when choosing a residency, but what drew me to the program over all others was how laid back, approachable, and friendly the residents and faculty are every time we interact.  It is important to me that my residency experience gives me freedom from intimidation and a collegial, team-focused atmosphere, and that is what I have come to expect from the program here at UMN.

Nick Dubay, MD

Education: Creighton University School of Medicine; Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN; 2021-2022, Internship

Hobbies: Racquetball, chess, board games, 3D printing, home-improvement, biking, audiobooks/podcasts, and walks with my wife, daughter, and dog.

Why did you choose U of M for residency? I choose UMN because of its great Midwestern culture of warmth and collegiality, and all the residents seem to love the program. Additionally, with the diversity of training sites and patient populations, I know I will be well-prepared for any career I want to pursue. With the support of a large academic center, I look forward to pursuing the many unique opportunities for collaboration on business, research, and teaching. Not to mention, Minneapolis and St. Paul are hidden gems filled with culture, bike trails, and craft breweries!

Corinne Duncan, MD

Education: University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth; Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN; 2021-2022, Internship

Hobbies: Spending time with family, hiking and spending time outdoors, board games, baking, traveling

Why did you choose U of M for residency? I chose the UMN for residency because of the wonderful people I have met here while rotating through the department as a medical student, as well as the great training program. I also love Minnesota and everything outdoors, so I was excited for the opportunity to stay here.

Lyfong Samuel Lor, MD

Education: Wake Forest University School of Medicine

Hobbies: Freshwater fishing, food, chess, playing basketball, alternating nightly between cheering for the Utah Jazz and Golden State Warriors during the NBA season, spending time with my wife and son. 

Why did you choose U of M for residency? Excellent clinical training, laid-back resident family, and caring program leadership (perks were also better than other programs). Additionally, the Twin Cities provides endless recreational opportunities (teams in all major sports, outdoor activities, and limitless food options). Lastly, St. Paul is a home for my wife and we wanted to be closer to family.

Chris Luedemann, MD

Education: University of Minnesota Medical School; Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN; 2021-2022, Internship

Hobbies: Spending time with my wife and children, playing with, building projects with, or teaching my children new things. Carpentry, construction projects, tinkering/ fixing cars.

Why did you choose U of M for residency? I wanted to go to the University of Minnesota because I belive the radiology program here is second to none. In addition to getting to train at a major refferal center, the radiology staff at the U of MN personally make great effort to provide personal teaching, high quality training, and guidance for all of their residents. I am thankful for the opportunity to train at the University of MN, and am so grateful that the staff here take such pride in training their residents. I was born and raised in Minnesota, and live in Minnesota with my wife and our four children. I am looking forward to completing my training with the U of MN's residency program and continue my training in Minnesota.

Eric Nagarajan, MD

Education: University of Minnesota Medical School; Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN; 2021-2022, Internship

Hobbies: Kayaking, karaoke, tennis, reality TV, brunch

Why did you choose U of M for residency? The faculty and residents at UMN are some of the most outstanding, friendly, supportive people you'll meet. UMN also has excellent variety in clinical sites and exposure with impressive outcomes for trainees. The built-in Transitional Year at Hennepin was also a huge plus with high-quality teaching, 2 blocks of Radiology during intern year(!), and a year to bond with your cohort even before the advanced residency starts. Finally, Minneapolis is my ideal city- amazing food, culture, unique neighborhoods, and events while still clean, green, and very quick to drive across the city.

Aaron Sipola, MD

Education: University of Minnesota Medical School; Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN; 2021-2022, Internship

Hobbies: Traditional archery, rock climbing, canoeing/kayaking, board games, backpacking, guitar, and reading

Why did you choose U of M for residency? Minnesota is home. I grew up here. I intend to practice medicine here. Maybe it’s a hometown bias, but I genuinely think Minnesota is a special place. In Minneapolis, for example, everything is within biking distance. Interconnected bike trail systems and multiple community and regional parks ensure getting outside and enjoying the seasons is no difficult task. Plus, the food scene and craft breweries are fantastic! Academically, the University of Minnesota DR program is filled with faculty dedicated to building a collegial and supportive training environment. The integrated transitional year offers in-coming residents a year to bond prior to starting radiology specific training. Finally, education quality cannot be understated. The UMN Fairview is a world-class referral center that presents residents with diverse pathology. I feel condient that the UMN will prepare me for my future radiology career.

Kent Van Note, MD

Education: University of Minnesota Medical School; Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN; 2021-2022, Internship

Hobbies: Backpacking, Bikepacking, Bike repair and maintenance, bike touring, bread baking, camping, cross-country skiing, coffee, drawing, pottery repair, running, woodworking

Why did you choose U of M for residency? I am originally from Minnesota. In my twenties, I had the opportunity to experience both east- and west-coast lifestyles. I came back to Minnesota because I love having access to thousands of lakes, the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers, and 4 distinct seasons for outdoor activites.  I love that the same trail I run on in the summer, I can cross-country ski on in the winter. I believe that the unique topography and climate of Minnesota contribute to the community-orientation and social consciousness of the people who live here. I'm thankful that UMN has such an outstanding radiology program.

Alexander Asleen

Education: A.T Still University - Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hobbies: Fishing, hockey, exploring/camping with my significant other

Why did you choose U of M for residency? Excellent staff and teaching opportunities. Minneapolis is home and my family/friends are in the area.

Cassiano Crespo-Santiago

Education: Federal University of Health Sciences of Porto Alegre (UFCSPA), School of Medicine, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN, 2020-ongoing, Internship

Hobbies: My hobbies include but are not limited to: electric guitar and bass, music concerts, movies, working out, tabletop roleplaying games, computer games, socializing, traveling, craft beers.

Why did you choose U of M for residency? Being a great institution and a top-notch residency program aren't exclusivities of the U of M radiology program, but I could not find a better group of peers, staff, and faculty to be around. I have tons of respect and admiration for the people here and I'm very grateful to be part of the team.

Christopher Knoedler

Education: Tulane University School of Medicine; Intern year- Walter Reed National Military Medical Center - General Surgery 16-17, Marine Corps Security Cooperation Group 17-20, Marine Corps Security Force Regiment 20-21

Hobbies: Bag Piping, Alpine Skiing, Fishing and Hunting

Why did you choose U of M for residency? I grew up in the twin cities and wanted to move back. I was drawn to the University of Minnesota for a Residency with great mentors and a program with a high case volume and a diverse patient population. 

Patrick McGonagill

Education: A.T. Still University of Health Sciences Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hobbies: Spending time with friends and family, traveling, snowboarding, golf, boating, watching sports, trying new restaurants

Why did you choose U of M for residency?  The U of M was an easy choice for me. First and foremost, the staff are friendly and incredibly welcoming, which was important to me when evaluating residency programs. It is clear that the atmosphere here at the U of M is one that is collaborative and strives to support the current residents during their time in this program. Additionally, this program offers diverse training sites with a mixture of academic and community medicine with high volume, unique pathology, and diverse patient populations. 

Nikolas Parisis

Danica Seifert

Education: Undergrad Concordia College Moorhead MN; Medical school: Creighton University 

Hobbies: Hiking, biking, cooking, reading, spending time with family and friends, traveling 

Why did you choose U of M for residency?  I am a Minnesota native and knew I wanted to continue my medical training close to home. I also wanted to be part of a program with good camaraderie, diversity in training sites, and located in a fun city to continue to explore. 

Nolan Shen

Education: Undergrad: UMN-TC, Biochemistry BS;  Medical School: Des Moines University, DO

Hobbies: Guitar, Lifting, miscellaneous nerd things.

Why did you choose U of M for residency?  Minneapolis is great and I loved the University atmosphere during the time I was there for undergrad. I had done a few medical student rotations at some of the UMN sites including Fairview and HCMC, and appreciated the collegiality throughout the specialities. I liked the large volume of trauma at HCMC and the complexity of cases at the University including its transplant and oncological imaging. The UMN has specialists in all fields including physics and computer science allowing you ample variability for research if wanted. The Minnesotan radiology job market is also populated with strong physician-led private practice groups as well.

Samuel Sutton

Education: Undergrad: University of St. Thomas (St. Paul, MN), Neuroscience Major & Exercise Science Minor, B.S.;  Medical School: St. George’s University School of Medicine (Grenada, West Indies), M.D.

Hobbies: hockey, soccer, golf, scuba diving, skiing, snowboarding, fishing, boating, hiking, anything outdoors, service work, time with family and friends

Why did you choose U of M for residency? I was fortunate enough to rotate through the rads program a couple of times and the people within the department from residents to staff were all so welcoming, enjoyed teaching, and it seemed to be a great work & learning atmosphere. The diversity of cases & training sites also made me confident it would help me become the best physician I could be. Minnesota is home for me and being by family made it even sweeter!

Austin Webs

Education: Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University- DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, DO MBA.  Undergraduate: Kansas State University, Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences

Hobbies: Personal finance, running, hiking, collegiate and professional athletics, traveling.

Why did you choose U of M for residency?  In addition to the exceptional training and diverse pathology of a large academic medical center, the people are extremely supportive and welcoming. It immediately felt like a program I would feel comfortable training at while preparing me for practice in any setting following graduation.