Current Residents
Diagnostic Radiology Residency Program
Chief Residents
Holly Boyum
Where are you from? Stillwater, MN
What do you do when you're not practicing medicine? There is a lot of cuddling with my dogs. When I'm out of the house, I'm usually biking, working out or trying out the ample eating opportunities the Twin Cities provides! There's also usually a jigsaw puzzle going on my kitchen table, I'm constantly trying to improve my average time on the NYT crossword, and I watch Jeopardy! like it's my second job.
Why did you choose the U of M for your residency? I was ready to be back home! Luckily that didn't mean sacrificing any part of my education. Being able to train in three distinct sites really does offer a breadth of experience that benefits trainees immensely and allows us to see everything. This program prepares its residents for call, core, and practice equally which I think is huge. The residents and staff are a great group of people and I've loved working with them the last few years.
Where do you see yourself in the near future? I will be staying at the U of M for my breast imaging fellowship. I don't imagine myself anywhere much further than that in the years that follow!
Ileasa Green
Where are you from? California
What do you do when you're not practicing medicine? I am an avid traveler who loves meeting new people, experiencing new cultures, and trying new things. Sharing food and cooking are some of the easiest ways to build connections with people, and I try to eat good food with different people as often as I can.
Why did you choose the U of M for your residency? My interview with the U was unexpected—every interviewer talked about how wonderful Minneapolis is (which is absolutely true) and how supportive the program is. As a new resident, I knew I would be nervous, excited, and eager to dive into extracurricular activities. From completing multiple research projects and helping build the RADAID chapter to starting the restaurant club and gaining the confidence to read studies independently, I have found support in every endeavor I have pursued at the University of Minnesota.
Where do you see yourself in the near future? Traveling with family, meeting new people and becoming a very competent and super cool radiologist.
Jackson Penning
Where are you from? Winona, MN
What do you do when you're not practicing medicine? Anything spending time with my family while outdoors, running, and using that (perceived) increase in endurance to keep up with my four kids, because somehow they keep getting faster.
Why did you choose the U of M for your residency? Before the Match, I had high expectations for residency. My time here has easily surpassed them. Between three clinical sites, the volume, diversity, and complexity of pathology have ensured a solid training foundation, and the institutional support for research has been incredible. More importantly, the culture here has proven that residents can thrive with the flexibility for improvement. Since having family nearby was extremely important, the U of M checked every box.
Where do you see yourself in the near future? I will be staying to complete a neuroradiology fellowship, and I am exploring career opportunities where I can continue my research interests.
Current Residents
TY, Class of 2031
Shahreyar Azeez, MD
Education: Avalon University School of Medicine
Hobbies: Basketball, weight lifting, trying new food and restaurants, traveling outside of the US, video games, and spending time with family!
Why did you choose U of M for residency? The University of Minnesota has always been a dream program of mine—so it was a no-brainer! I knew that the proximity to my family and the University's track-record of exceptional training would help support me in becoming an excellent radiologist. After leaving Minnesota for medical school, I knew my goal was always to come back to my home state and practice around a community that's important to me!
Luke Dorwart, DO
Education: Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hobbies: I love to spend time outdoors as much as possible, whether that is gardening, running, or finding a new place to camp/hike. When I'm inside I love to woodwork, throw ceramics, and spend time with my wife, Nicole!
Why did you choose U of M for residency? Minnesota is where I was raised and it also happens to coincide with being the location of a truly excellent training program. Getting the opportunity to become a radiologist in my home state/community is something I simply could not pass up.
Tanisha Dussik, DO
Education: Western University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific, Pomona Campus
Hobbies: Crafting, art history, cultural immersion through travel, piano, interior design, figure skating.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? I love Minneapolis for the city life, access to nature, and proximity to friends and family. I was drawn to the U of M’s radiology program because of the excellent training and diversity of cases, as well as the supportive and encouraging faculty.
Simone Jones, MD
Education: St. George's University School of Medicine
Hobbies: Piano, guitar, painting, yoga, music production, travel, and reading anything that lives at the intersection of science and the arts.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? I chose the University of Minnesota because it's a program where I can do the demanding work of training and still come out the other side whole. From my conversations with residents to the way leadership shows up for them, this is a place that actively protects who you are outside the hospital as a human being. Minnesota itself is a place I can actually live, with real cultural depth, a genuinely diverse community, four full seasons, the lakes, and an arts scene that is inspiring to explore my creative interests.
Theo Nguyen, MD
Education: University of Minnesota Medical School
Hobbies: I enjoy playing competitive videos games, reading science fiction and fantasy, watching TV, and spending time with my partner when possible.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? Going to medical school here and spending time in the radiology department showed me that graduates from this program become strong independent radiologist thanks to their diverse cases. People here are friendly. They are very willing to teach and show genuine interest in their fields.
Tanner Nordseth, MD
Education: University of Minnesota Medical School
Hobbies: Outside of work, I enjoy archery, fishing, golf, playing the saxophone, and rec league broomball and softball with friends. I am also an avid Minnesota sports fan, with many summer evenings spent at Target Field.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? The University of Minnesota was a natural fit for me for many reasons. Throughout my reading room and research experiences within the department during medical school, I was consistently impressed by our radiology program’s supportive leadership, excellent teaching, and welcoming culture. As a native Minnesotan, I was excited to pursue outstanding training across multiple healthcare systems in the Twin Cities, while serving my home state and remaining close to family and friends.
Savannah Novy, MD
Education: University of Minnesota Medical School
Hobbies: Camping with my dogs Bailey and Scout, cooking/baking with family, hockey/side gig as a Zamboni driver, dive bar trivia, gardening (vegetables/herbs, and hops for home-brewing), trying new restaurants, and travel.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? I chose the University of Minnesota because of the excellent experiences I had with the Radiology Department residents and leadership (especially the Program Director, Dr. Hoven!) as a medical student, the strength of training with the ability to learn in a variety of hospital settings and take independent call, and because Minnesota has become home to me.
Makenzie Raj, MD
Education: Medical College of Wisconsin
Hobbies: I like to spend my free time hiking, baking, reading, and spending time with family. I also enjoy traveling to the US national parks, as I try to reach my goal of visiting each of them.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? I attended the U of M for undergrad and found the University to be a very supportive learning environment. I quickly discovered that the Twin Cities was an excellent place to learn, as well as a great place to spend time outside of academics. In speaking with current residents, I was drawn by the supportive culture of learning and growth that was consistently portrayed. Residents here spoke highly of the training caliber, case diversity, and the sense of community within the program. Each of these reasons further solidified my choice to further my training at the University of Minnesota.
RL1, Class of 2030
Sarah Alabsi, MD
Education: University of Minnesota
Hobbies: Alpine skiing, trying out new coffee shops, watching (and endlessly rewatching) my favorite comedy shows, legislative advocacy.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? I chose the University of Minnesota for residency because our program consistently trains top-notch radiologists who have a strong commitment to serving Minnesotans. The faculty here care deeply about enriching the future of radiology— both in and out of the reading room.
Diamond Brunt, MD
Education: University of Kansas
Hobbies: Aerial fitness, dance, sports (particularly basketball), food, weightlifting and playing Super Mario.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? The University of Minnesota stood out to me for its welcoming atmosphere, highlighted by the genuine warmth and support of both the program director and residents. The program director struck me as deeply engaged and truly invested in the residents’ training and well-being. It was important for me to choose a residency program that fosters a supportive environment for both my professional and personal growth. Additionally, Minnesota’s reputation for innovation made it an exciting place to continue my medical journey. The Twin Cities offer breathtaking scenery, abundant outdoor activities, and the perfect balance of adventure and proximity to my hometown. I am thrilled to begin this next chapter in Minnesota!
Clare Buntrock, MD
Education: University of Minnesota
Hobbies: Spending time with friends and family, traveling, walks along the lakeshore, trying new restaurants, cooking and baking, playing and watching soccer (Go Loons!).
Why did you choose U of M for residency? I chose the University of Minnesota because it had everything I was looking for in a program - academic excellence, strong mentorship, and a supportive culture among faculty and residents! From being able to learn radiology in a variety of hospital settings including the VA, HCMC county hospital, and the academic center of the UMN, I knew I would be well prepared for any career path in radiology after residency. The program's amazing commitment to uplifting and supporting women in radiology was unmatched and was something I was looking for in the culture of a residency program. On top of this, the great perks of moonlighting, research opportunities, and having the leadership under the kind program director Dr. Hoven made the University of Minnesota a great fit for the next stage of my career and life!
Tyler Dobratz, DO
Education: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hobbies: Playing or watching any sport, especially hockey, football, and snowboarding. Fitness and exercise. I lift at the gym at least four times per week. Playing with/training my dog, a 4-year-old Australian Shepherd “Maverick.” Building with LEGO. I have loved building with LEGO since I was a kid.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? Minnesota is home for my fiancé and I, and we both attended the University of Minnesota for undergraduate. After moving away for medical school, we knew our goal was to eventually end up back in Minnesota. I was able to do an away rotation with the radiology program at the University of Minnesota during my fourth year of medical school, and I loved it! It felt like a natural fit and I knew right away I wanted to end up here for residency, and luckily that's how it worked out! I am so excited to return home to Minnesota near family and friends as I progress through residency.
Shivani Kothari, DO
Education: Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hobbies: I love tennis, pickleball, Indian dance, and exploring new cities. I enjoy board games and spending time with friends and family. Traveling, sunsets, solving Wordle in under 3, and anything food-related always make my day.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? I chose the University of Minnesota for residency because of its supportive, collegial atmosphere and the program’s dedication to intellectual rigor and a wide range of academic opportunities. The Twin Cities offer endless possibilities for adventure, from exploring the beautiful scenery to enjoying a diverse food scene, there’s always something to do! It’s the perfect place for me to grow both personally and professionally as a physician.
Jacob Schroeder, MD
Education: University of Iowa
Hobbies: Outside of radiology, I love staying active outdoors—whether it’s hiking, paddleboarding, kayaking, or camping. When I'm not outside, I enjoy woodworking, PC gaming, board games, and movie nights. Much of my free time is spent walking our dogs or helping my wife with her live music endeavors.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? I was drawn to UMN for its strong sense of community, exceptional training, and proximity to my family in Northern Iowa. On interview day, I was struck by how kind everyone was—from faculty to co-residents—and how genuinely happy the residents seemed. I knew UMN would provide the outstanding education and flexibility I needed to pursue my goals as a future radiologist.
Tanya Shenoy, MD
Education: University of Mississippi
Hobbies: Art, cooking, travel, spending time with family.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? Along with the excellent training and diversity of cases, I was excited by the program’s warm culture and emphasis on fostering a supportive community. Additionally, being in the Twin Cities offers wonderful urban living, access to nature, and a delicious food scene!
Andrew Wang, MD
Education: University of Minnesota
Hobbies: Spending time with my family, gardening, woodworking, video games.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? I chose UMN after seeing firsthand the department’s warmth, enthusiasm, and high-quality education as a medical student here. My interactions with the residents and faculty were all incredibly positive, and the comradery and supportive culture was evident from the residents that I worked with. Minnesota is my home state, and I am excited to continue training where I plan to practice in the future!
RL2, Class of 2029
Phuong Dang, MD
Education: University of Minnesota
Hobbies: Spending time with my family, picnicking, hiking and camping, rock climbing, weight lifting, board games, and coffee brewing.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? It's the whole package with the University of Minnesota! The people here are fantastic – every interaction I've had, from the leadership team to the residents, has been so welcoming and supportive. Plus, the diverse pathology we see across the different rotation sites is a huge draw. And being in Minnesota, my home, just makes it the perfect fit.
Mikayla Foley, MD
Education: University of Minnesota
Hobbies: Running, walks with my husband and dog, pickleball, golf, watching sports (especially hockey), reading.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? There are several reasons why I chose the University of Minnesota for my residency training. The faculty and residents are outstanding—I can't imagine better people to work with and learn from. I also appreciate the ability to rotate through several diverse training sites, take independent call, and engage in research and innovation. Lastly, Minnesota will always be home to me, and I'm incredibly grateful to remain close to my support system throughout training.
Naima Ismail, DO
Education: Ohio Univeristy - Osteopathic Medicine
Hobbies: Reading, watching a variety of genres of shows including true crime, international dramas and documentaries. I also enjoy sports, particularly basketball and football.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? I chose the University of Minnesota for residency because of the institution's commitment to growth and innovation. I also liked the location of the Twin Cities, as it is both a close knit community as well as an up and coming bustling city.
John (Jack) Kirsch, MD
Education: Creighton University
Hobbies: Spending time with family and friends, being active (hockey, skiing, golf, working out), piano and video games.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? Minnesota is home for both my wife and I, and after spending medical school in a different part of the country, we realized how much we miss the Twin Cities. I also did an away rotation at Minnesota and got to meet the amazing residents and faculty and knew this is where I wanted to train for radiology.
Megan Kollitz, MD
Education: University of Minnesota
Anna Menezes, MD
Education: St. John's Medical College
Hobbies: Playing the violin, dancing, exploring new places and meeting new people.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? As an international graduate, my observership in Minnesota revealed a remarkably supportive environment. From the residents to our amazing program director, everyone’s encouragement inspired me to step out of my comfort zone in India and pursue residency here. The program truly feels like a home away from home, making it the ideal place for my professional and personal growth.
Patrick Miles, MD
Education: University of Minnesota
Hobbies: Running, lifting, and reading.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? I chose the University of Minnesota to return to my home state and receive a world class education at multiple clinical learning sites.
Nathaniel Miller, MD
Education: University of Minnesota
Clay Neuenschwander, MD
Education: University of Minnesota
Hobbies: I enjoy spending time outdoors with my family, going to breweries, board games, video games and D&D
Why did you choose U of M for residency? For many reasons, the U of M was my #1 rank. I have grown very close to many of the residents and staff, the atmosphere has been unfailingly congenial and supportive through many serious milestones in my life, and the training sites are exceptional. Independent call is a crucible by which I know I will become a better radiologist, there is a daily high volume of cases and huge variety of pathology and it’s a Minnesota program where I plan to practice in the future. Minnesota is my and my wife's home state, so it is truly an honor to be able to give back to Minnesotans in my professional life. Go Gophers.
Kianna Nunally, MD
Education: University of Minnesota
Hobbies: I enjoy spending time with my husband and kids (exploring local parks, going on hikes, hanging out on the boat/swimming in the lake), watching NBA basketball and cooking shows, reading, swimming and painting.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? As a medical student here at UMN, I was welcomed into the radiology department with warmth and enthusiasm. I was able to see firsthand the department's commitment to mentorship, high quality education, research and service to our community. The residents I interacted with were very satisfied with the program, and it was encouraging to hear how many of them were able to successfully parent while also being a part of a rigorous training program with a fulfilling career. As a mom myself, I also love that the department here includes so many powerhouse radiologist women and moms (shoutout to Dr. Hoven (PD) and Dr. Holm (APD))! Here at UMN, I know I will get an exceptional education, build long-lasting relationships, and attain the tools/skills to become a successful Minnesota radiologist (and mom)!
RL3, Class of 2028
Lindsey Amundson, MD
Education: Undergrad: University of Wisconsin; Medical School: University of Minnesota
Hobbies: Anything related to food (both hosting and trying new restaurants), video games, acrylic painting, visiting local breweries, and binge-reading anything fiction.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? I chose the University of Minnesota for residency after rotating through the department on an elective rotation. I knew I enjoyed the environment of the work rooms and the opportunity for both collaboration and independence. One thing that stuck out to me was the strong presence of many subspecialties with fellowship opportunities. I knew this would be a good place to explore my interests with the infrastructure to pursue fellowship in the future.
Caleb Hoover, MD
Education: Undergrad: University of Minnesota/University of Wisconsin; Grad School: University of Minnesota; Medical School: University of Minnesota
Hobbies: I enjoy spending time with my wife and my dog (Nala) going on walks and hikes. My wife and I love to travel to see natural and culturally beautiful and inspiring places. We especially enjoy the opportunity to visit my wife's family and original home in Romania. I love the Vikings and Timberwolves. I am a big basketball fan- watching and playing as much as possible. I also enjoy reading and learning about history in my spare time.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? I was born and raised in Minnesota, and I want to practice medicine in the Twin Cities in service to my community. The people and the natural beauty of Minnesota always keep me and my wife here despite our love for travel and the Minnesota winters. The U of M Radiology program brings you to several of the largest health centers in the Twin Cities and prepares you well for independent practice with a high volume of diverse cases.
David Kahat, MD
Education: Undergrad: St. John’s University; Grad School: University of Minnesota (MBA); Medical School: University of Minnesota
Hobbies: Running, biking, lifting, making music, hanging out with my wife and dog (Goldy), starting and many times not finishing random house projects, and bouncing around great restaurants in Northeast MPLS!
Why did you choose U of M for residency? UMN checked all three of the big boxes I was looking for in a radiology program. The training offers high volume, extremely diverse pathology, and the opportunity to complete independent call at a level 1 trauma center. Being born and raised in MN, my wife and I knew we wanted to complete training near family, friends, and Minnesota is an amazing place to live. Lastly, the culture of the program is amazing; everyone, including residents, faculty, and other support staff, has each other's back!
Thomas Kane, MD
Education: Undergrad: University of Notre Dame; Medical School: University of Minnesota
Connor Nelson, DO
Ayca Ozbek Ozutemiz, MD
Education: Medical School: Istanbul Üniversitesi, Cerrahpasa Tip Fakültesi, Turkey Dokuz Eylül Üniversitesi Tip Fakültesi, Turkey
Hobbies: Baking and cooking Turkish/Mediterranean dishes, walking and hiking with my family, listening to podcasts and audiobooks, traveling, planting and gardening.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? I have been living in Minnesota for seven years now, and my experience with the community and the healthcare system has been exceptional. After completing multiple observerships, I was drawn to the radiology program offered by the University of Minnesota. The program's emphasis on advanced medical practices, interdisciplinary collaboration, and patient-centered care aligns perfectly with my values and aspirations in the field. I am excited to continue my relationship with the University of Minnesota and to develop my skills further in radiology for a successful career.
Benjamin Simpson, MD
Education: Undergrad: Macalester College; Medical School: University of Minnesota
Hobbies: Soccer, basketball, pickleball... you name the sport and I'll give it a shot. Cycling with the goal of a triathlon on the horizon. Going to concerts with my wife and friends.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? Strong background in medical education and great exposure to trauma and rare/uncommon conditions. Being from Minneapolis, the U of M allows me to continue my training with the goal of serving my community.
Jacob Stern, MD
Education: Undergrad: Gustavus Adolphus; Medical School: University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences
Hobbies: Outside of medicine I enjoy reading, cooking, baking, camping, and spending time with my fiancé, family, and friends.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? I chose the University of Minnesota for residency because of its excellent reputation, the variety of training sites, and its location in Minneapolis. I am originally from the Twin Cities and love the people. I am honored to have the opportunity to serve the community I grew up in.
Logan Thomas, DO
Education: Undergrad: University of Iowa; Medical School: A.T. Still University of Health Sciences Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine
Hobbies: Spending time with my wife and friends, trying new restaurants and cooking, playing board games and reading a good book, traveling, hiking, camping, working out, biking, and pickleball.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? I had the pleasure of completing an away rotation at the University of Minnesota in radiology and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The faculty and residents were easy to get along with. The program has a great diversity of training opportunities including the University of Minnesota Medical Center, Hennepin County Medical Center, and VA Hospital. Minneapolis has great food, lots of parks, and fantastic bike trails. The state of Minnesota has abundant outdoor opportunities that I am excited to explore.
RL4, Class of 2027
Amon Amini, DO
Hobbies: Traveling, learning new languages, piano, working out, ultimate frisbee, new technology, food, video games, and playing with my big white fluffy dog, Cloud.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? Being born at Hennepin Healthcare and spending the majority of my life in Minneapolis gave me the privilege of connecting with a community I am passionate about serving. From my time as an undergraduate student at the U of M to my time as a former surgery resident at Hennepin Healthcare, it was clear to me that the U of M’s radiology program will not only allow me to continue serving the community I deeply care for, but will allow me to train under outstanding radiologists who are passionate educators, leaders, and invaluable mentors. The strong camaraderie I have witnessed in the department, exceptional teaching, abundant research opportunities, and personable interactions with faculty and staff assured me that there is no better place for me to grow as a radiologist than the University of Minnesota. Words can’t express how grateful I am to continue my journey as a physician in Minneapolis and to be a part of such a wonderful and talented team!
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, with multiple hospitals and 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 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, PA; 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 are amazing faculty and are 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 my 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 one of starting the transitional year. Further, there is a broad pathology and volume base with the combination of 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!
Austin Promersberger, MD
Hobbies: Watching soccer/basketball, video games, reading fantasy books, house plants, trying new restaurants, exploring/going on walks with my wife.
Why did you choose U of M for residency? I had the opportunity to do an away rotation at the U of M in Radiology and was impressed by the collegiality between the residents as well as the level of support from faculty/program leadership. I knew the U would provide me with a strong training experience with a wide variety of pathology in a supportive environment where I could thrive. My wife and I have also always wanted to live in the Twin Cities because of all it has to offer! Plus, we are close to family and friends which is very important to us.
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 for me. I've lived all around the country but had never been to Minnesota, so I was excited for a new adventure and a new place to explore and call home!
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 and 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 four distinct seasons for outdoor activities. 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.
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 volumes, but I also wanted to find a program that emphasized work/life balance - the U easily checked off both of those boxes. I couldn't be happier with my decision to pursue residency training at the University of Minnesota!