Family Medicine Residency Program

Family Medicine Residency Program - Current Residency

Class of 2028
Bennett Christina DO

Christina Bennett, D.O.

Hometown: Lynchburg, Virginia
College: VCU
Medical School: VCOM-Virginia
Favorite thing about residency: How supportive the faculty is, hanging out with my wonderful coresidents and building relationships with patients
Favorite thing about Newport News: Having more diverse food options and being close to friends and family
Goals after residency: Work in an outpatient setting in Virginia, possibly in a rural area
Hobbies: Reading, game nights with friends, spending time with my family and my cats, walking/hiking outdoors

Bradley Rachel Loretta MD

Rachel Bradley, M.D.

Hometown: Yorktown, VA
College: Virginia Tech
Medical School: EVMS
Favorite thing about residency: Getting to take care of people while working with the most awesome co-residents!
Favorite thing about Newport News: You can always find something to do around here! Lots of great food, beaches, and entertainment.
Goals after residency: My biggest goal is maintaining the same love of humanity and medicine that I'm entering residency with. I'm also considering pursuing a palliative care fellowship!
Hobbies: spinning, knitting, crochet, and weaving. I also love going to the movies and spending time with my family and friends. 

Davila Andrea Nadramia DO

Andrea Davila, D.O.

Hometown:  Yorktown, VA
College:  Virginia Tech
Medical School:  Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine – Virginia Campus (VCOM-VA)
Favorite thing about residency:  Without a doubt, the people. I’ve felt incredibly supported throughout the transition into residency. I also value caring for such a diverse patient population. Many of our patients have significant unmet health needs, and it’s rewarding to make a meaningful difference in their care. I especially enjoy being able to provide care in Spanish.
Favorite thing about Newport News:  Being close to friends and family! Having grown up here, it’s special to stay connected to the community.
Goals after residency: To work in an outpatient clinic setting with a focus on primary care dermatology, women’s health, and wound care, while continuing to provide care in Spanish for patients in the community.
Hobbies:  Traveling, pilates, skiing, discovering new music, and reading fiction, memoirs, and classic literature

Dunaway Robert Logan DO

Robert Dunaway, D.O.

Hometown: Warsaw, VA
College: Virginia Commonwealth University
Medical School: LUCOM
Favorite thing about residency: Learning while actively practicing medicine.
Favorite thing about Newport News: Proximity to beaches and diversity of the restaurant scene.
Goals after residency: TBD
Hobbies: Reading, Cooking, Hiking

Gable Emily Claire DO

Emily Gable, D.O.

Hometown: Arnold, MD
College: University of Tennessee - Knoxville
Medical School:  University of Pikeville, Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: Spending time with my co-residents, building relationships with my patients, and the amazing support from faculty and staff. The teaching environment here really inspires learning and growth.
Favorite thing about Newport News: All the amazing places to eat and being close to my family.
Goals after residency: I hope to work in an outpatient family practice where I can also provide OMT to my patients.
Hobbies: Baking, rewatching the TV show Friends, redecorating my house, and spending time with my husband and two cats.

Hajibegli Navin DO

Navin Hajibegli, D.O.

Hometown: Chantilly, VA
College: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Virginia Campus
Medical School:  VCOM
Favorite thing about residency: The people
Favorite thing about Newport News: Costco, BJ’s, and Trader Joe’s
Goals after residency: Reaching financial independence, enjoying the rest of life with friends and family, enjoying my career, opening a wildlife rescue
Hobbies: Fishing and fish tank keeping

Hoffer Caitlin Brianne MD

Caitlin Hoffer, M.D.

Hometown: New Cumberland, PA
College: Mansfield University of Pennsylvania
Medical School: Penn State College of Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: My co-residents 🙂
Favorite thing about Newport News: Being so close to the coast!
Goals after residency: Provide my patients with the best care possible, either in the hospital or in clinic.
Hobbies: Taking care of my many indoor and outdoor plants, reading, baking, staying active

Merdinger Erik Alexander DO

Erik Merdinger, D.O.

Hometown: Lake in the Hills, IL
College:  University of Iowa
Medical School: University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite thing about residency:  My co-residents are easily the highlight of residency — sharp, dependable, and always there when it counts.
Favorite thing about Newport News: Newport News has all the essentials, from Costco to Whole Foods, and I love being close to the water and having so many parks nearby.
Goals after residency: My goals include potentially pursuing a sports medicine fellowship, continuing to practice OMT, and focusing on lifestyle medicine and chronic disease care.
Hobbies:  Resistance training (aesthetics), sports & recreation (soccer, disc golf, basketball, tennis, boxing, snowsports & hiking), traveling (national parks & family in Europe), video games (virtual reality golf, competitive Super Smash Bros & co-op games with fiancée), reading (sci-fi, fantasy & mystery)

Payne Victoria DO

Victoria Payne, D.O.

Hometown: Lombard, IL
College: University of Illinois at Chicago
Medical School: Rocky Vista University College of Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: working with patients and providers from a variety of backgrounds and constantly learning from them
Favorite thing about Newport News: going to the beaches
Goals after residency: provide care under resourced patients
Hobbies: biking, swimming, rock climbing, gardening, reading, 

Rhodes Katherine Nicole DO

Katherine Rhodes, D.O.

Hometown: Hollis, New Hampshire
College:  UMASS Lowell
Medical School: Campbell University
Favorite thing about residency: Having autonomy while still knowing I have strong support behind me
Favorite thing about Newport News: The honesty of patients and the wide spectrum of disease here is humbling. It’s both a privilege and a reminder of how vital it is to strengthen primary care access for the community.
Goals after residency: I want to continue caring for patients across generations while also advocating for stronger systems that keep people out of the ED and better connected to primary care. I hope to be part of closing the gaps in care, especially for those who feel unseen or disconnected from the healthcare system.
Hobbies:  Spending time with my dog Rhaegar, weightlifting, functional strength /flexibility goals at the gym, reading (epic fantasy, true crime, human behavior), being outside in nature, art of mindfulness/meditation/self-reflection, napping, Netflix binging and exploring all the food places

Safford Sara DO

Sara Safford, D.O.

Hometown: Nervesa della Battaglia, Italy
College:  Christopher Newport University
Medical School: VCOM-VA
Favorite thing about residency: My co-residents!!! I could not imagine doing this with a different group of people.  
Favorite thing about Newport News: Hilton village is the cutest historic downtown. I love the farmer's market and all the restaurants there. It's also nice to be close to family.
Goals after residency: I am planning on working at a Veterans Affairs clinic since I am a HPSP scholarship recipient. After that, I would love to work in an outpatient clinic and focus on women's health, global health, and overall preventative care. 
Hobbies: I love cooking, crafting, gardening, and traveling. My favorite thing to do on a day off is to try a new coffee shop!

Sidana Soumya Sarang DO

Soumya Sidana, D.O.

Hometown: Raleigh, NC
College:  Wilmington
Medical School: Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: new forever friends
Favorite thing about Newport News: proximity to water/ restaurant scene
Goals after residency: TBD
Hobbies: Delta Skymiles enthusiast, struggling Instagram influencer, bathroom concert performer

Smucker Marchelle Renee DO

Marchelle Smucker, D.O.

Hometown: Woodward, PA
College: Eastern Mennonite University
Medical School: VCOM-VA
Favorite thing about residency: getting to work with the whole care team
Favorite thing about Newport News:  All the great trails and fantastic restaurants to eat at
Goals after residency: Explore and learn more medicine!
Hobbies: crocheting, climbing

Class of 2027
Ellis Elizabeth Baylor headshot

Elizabeth Ellis, D.O.

Hometown: Tappanannock, VA
College: Christopher Newport
Medical School: VCOM - Virginia
Favorite thing about residency: The people – this is such a family
Favorite thing about Newport News: The best sunsets
Goals after residency: Family Medicine/OMT Attending
Hobbies: Grocery shopping and couponing

Fordice Daniel headshot

Daniel Fordice, D.O.

Hometown: Virginia Beach, VA
College: Old Dominion University
Medical School: VCOM - Virginia
Favorite thing about residency: My peers and patients! Riverside is full of friendly and caring people that make the tough days better. Also, I just love getting to finally be a doctor
Favorite thing about Newport News: You are so close to a variety of things. The beaches are minutes away, mountains hours away, and DC is a fun day trip
Goals after residency: I want to go into clinic-based medicine with a focus on queer and transgendered in an urban setting
Hobbies: Weightlifting, traveling, reading, eating, sleeping

Graham David headshot

David Graham, D.O.

Hometown: South Bend IN
College: Indiana University - Bloomington IN
Medical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine - Indianapolis IN
Favorite thing about residency: Patient interactions & hanging out with my co-residents
Favorite thing about Newport News: It's diversity in food and central location to multiple big cities
Goals after residency: Outpatient clinic & seeing all ages
Hobbies: Watching lots of movies, discovering all the regional breweries and restaurants with my wife and co-residents, hiking, tennis, and watching college football and basketball

Gupta Niharika headshot

Niharika Gupta, M.D.

Hometown: South Bend IN
College: Indiana University - Bloomington IN
Medical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine - Indianapolis IN
Favorite thing about residency: Patient interactions & hanging out with my co-residents
Favorite thing about Newport News: It's diversity in food and central location to multiple big cities
Goals after residency: Outpatient clinic & seeing all ages
Hobbies: Watching lots of movies, discovering all the regional breweries and restaurants with my wife and co-residents, hiking, tennis, and watching college football and basketball

Hunter Isobel headshot

Isobel Hunter, M.D.

Hometown: York, UK
College: University of Nottingham
Medical School: Same as college, I did the 5 year undergraduate medicine course.
Favorite thing about residency: Returning to being a doctor and experiencing different specialties.
Favorite thing about Newport News: Being near my husband's family (free babysitting!) and the walkability and community feeling of our Hilton neighborhood.
Goals after residency: To work in a small practice near home and know my patients personally, allowing me to provide the best tailored care.
Hobbies: Singing, swimming, climbing, drawing, and playing mad games with my four year old.

Knapp Megan headshot

Megan Knapp, M.D.

Hometown: Toano, VA
College: Virginia Tech
Medical School: Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: The supportive teaching culture created by the attendings and residents, as well as the atmosphere of the hospital - everyone is so friendly and welcoming. It's a very unique hospital; I've never worked anywhere with such a positive vibe.
Favorite thing about Newport News: All of the different food options and living close to my family.
Goals after residency: Outpatient primary care +/- some inpatient time (TBD)
Hobbies: Spending time with my husband, new baby, and two dogs, dating reality shows (I know), paddle boarding, and embroidery.

Lovo Thi headshot

Thi Lovo, M.D.

Hometown: Harrisonburg, VA
College: University of Virginia
Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM-VA campus)
Favorite thing about residency: The amazing people who make Riverside unique and the vast opportunity to learn alongside amazing doctors and staffs.
Favorite thing about Newport News: the diverse culture and activities to do
Goals after residency: Be part of an outpatient practice and travel out of the country to provide medical care as much as I can.
Hobbies: Drawing, walking with my corgis, and traveling.

Maldonado-Rivera Perla Marina

Perla Maldonado-Rivera, M.D.

Hometown: Comuy, Puerto Rico
College: University of Puerto Rico at Mayguez
Medical School: University of Medicine and Health Sciences
Favorite thing about residency: Getting to know my colleagues and sharing new experiences with them. Having the ability to learn new things every day at work. How inclusive and considerate my colleagues are towards me.
Favorite thing about Newport News: Living in a place that is close to the sea, since it reminds me of Puerto Rico. How nice and welcoming people in this area have been towards me.
Goals after residency: Work in a health group, travel to new places, buy a house and get at least 2 dogs.
Hobbies: Cooking, Hiking, Trails, going to the beach, traveling, road trips

Paudel Diksha headshot

Dikaha Paudel, M.D.

Hometown: Dan, Nepal
College: Trinity International College
Medical School: China Three Gorges University
Favorite thing about residency: Working closely with a diverse team of health professionals, mentorship support, building relationships with patients and making tangible difference in lives.
Favorite thing about Newport News: Beach access, restaurants, weather, diversity
Goals after residency: Stay in area and work as a primary care doctor
Hobbies: Cooking, watching suspense thriller movies.

Treser Zachary headshot

Zachary Treser, D.O.

Hometown: Blacksburg, VA
College: Virginia Tech
Medical School: VCOM-Virginia
Favorite thing about residency: Building relationships with my patients and spending time with my co-residents
Favorite thing about Newport News: Being close to the beach and living near family
Goals after residency: Work in outpatient family medicine with focuses on pediatrics and sports medicine patients
Hobbies: Exercising, pickleball, spending time with my wife and dogs.

Vaughan Christopher Deane headshot

Christopher Vaughan, D.O.

Hometown: Williamsburg, VA.
College: Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA.
Medical School: Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ft. Smith, AR.
Favorite thing about residency: Co-residents and Faculty.
Favorite thing about Newport News: There's lots of fun stuff in the area and it's close to my hometown.
Goals after residency: Outpatient Family Practice.
Hobbies: Weightlifting and building a 1953 f100 show truck.

Yadav Sushmita headshot

Sushmita Yadav, M.D.

Hometown: Originally Saptari, Nepal and in USA I would like to call Fairfax, VA my hometown
College: Jalalabad Ragib Rabeya
Medical school: Jalalabad Ragib Rabeya medical college, Sylhet, Bangladesh
Favorite thing about residency: the people, patients, location
Favorite thing about Newport News: close to beach, calm and quiet, close to NOVA, proximity to family and friends
Goal after residency: outpatient family medicine clinic might be
Hobbies: Traveling, cooking, spending time with family and friends

Allison Zamora, DO

Allison Zamora, D.O.

Hometown: Advance, NC
College: UNC Chapel Hill
Medical School: LUCOM
Favorite thing about residency: I love the people! Residency can be hard but when you have seniors and faculty who are excited to teach and support you, it makes things much better!
Favorite thing about Newport News: There are so many opportunities to get outside and lots of cool places to explore! Plus we are a quick drive to OBX!
Goals after residency: I would love a combination of inpatient and outpatient medicine
Hobbies: I love being outside! - hiking, running, gardening. I also enjoy cooking, trying new restaurants with my husband, and hosting hang outs with friends.

Class of 2026
Dwivedy Pritty headshot

Pritty Dwivedy, D.O.

Hometown: Great Falls, Virginia
College: George Mason University
Medical School: VCOM Virginia Campus
Favorite thing about residency: Learning as much as possible about general medicine, serving patients in need from all backgrounds and age groups, and working with academically strong and supportive attendings and co-residents
Favorite thing about Newport News: Being close to the beach and going boating
Goals after residency: Working in an outpatient clinic with other family medicine/internal medicine attendings from an established medical group
Hobbies: Spending time with friends and family, working out, watching mysteries/psychological thrillers and reality TV, being by the water, eating delicious vegetarian food, and traveling

Frommer Brett headshot

Brett Frommer, D.O.

Hometown: Highland Park, IL
College: Indiana University Bloomington
Medical School: A.T. Still Kirksville
Favorite thing about residency: Great culture, happy hours with colleagues, we are well fed
Favorite thing about Newport News: Club sports, pickleball, volleyball
Goals after residency: start with outpatient and some hospital moonlighting
Hobbies: Guitar, martial arts, pickleball, cooking

Ho Brian headshot

Brian Ho, M.D.

Hometown: Annadale, VA
College: George Mason University
Medical School: Saba University
Favorite thing about residency: The people
Favorite thing about Newport News: Good commute, good weather, friendly people
Goals after residency: Outpatient
Hobbies: Cooking

Litchfield Cristina headshot

Cristina Litchfield, D.O.

Hometown: Bismarck, ND
College: Colorado State University
Medical School: Des Moines University
Favorite thing about residency: The people! I have enjoyed getting to know and work with my co-residents, the attendings, and everyone else involved with the program.
Favorite thing about Newport News: The Noland Trail, family friendly neighborhoods and lots of restaurants to try.
Goals after residency: Outpatient family medicine
Hobbies: Spending time with my husband, son and 2 dogs. Being outdoors, traveling

Lynch Ashane headshot

Ashane Lynch, M.D.

Hometown: Linstead, Jamaica and moved to Fayetteville, NC
College: Queens University of Charlotte
Medical School: Trinity School of Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: The people! Everyone has been helpful and approachable, and my co-residents have been a pleasure to work with.
Favorite thing about Newport News: The local festivals are great! Busch Gardens is also very close, and I've really enjoyed their seasonal events
Goals after residency: I'm interested in lifestyle medicine and preventative healthcare. My goal is to practice outpatient FM after residency.
Hobbies: I'm definitely a homebody, so when I have time I spend it attempting to garden in my apartment, watching anime, horror movies or playing video games.

Moon Tae headshot

Tae Moon, D.O.

Hometown: Annandale, VA
College: Virginia Commonwealth University
Medical School: VCOM - Virginia
Favorite thing about residency: Interacting with many diverse patients and learning how best to treat their medical issues
Favorite thing about Newport News: Food
Goals after residency: Practicing family medicine and continuing to learn and improve
Hobbies: Spending time with my wife, family and our Doberman, Traveling, cooking and trying new diverse cuisines

Notvedt Emily headshot

Emily Notvedt, D.O.

Hometown: Newport News, VA
College: Christopher Newport University
Medical School: VCOM - Virginia
Favorite thing about residency: My co-residents
Favorite thing about Newport News: The Noland Trail
Goals after residency: Outpatient Family Medicine, with an emphasis on Women's Health
Hobbies: My dogs, walking trails, going to the beach, crochet, trying new breweries

Omer Muhammad headshot

Muhammad Omer, DO

Hometown: Langrial, Pakistan
College: UMBC – University Maryland
Medical School: VCOM - Virginia
Favorite thing about residency: The diversity of the patients and my co-residents
Favorite thing about Newport News: Crown Fried Chicken
Goals after residency: Work in a rural area with underserved patients
Hobbies: Watching movies, cricket, and reading

Setambar Neama headshot

Neama Setambar, D.O.

Hometown: Centreville, VA
College: Virginia Commonwealth University
Medical School: VCOM - Virginia
Favorite thing about residency: Great co-residents, teachers, very supportive environment and fun place to learn!
Favorite thing about Newport News: All the parks/trails, food options, close to beach
Goals after residency: Sports medicine fellowship then outpatient practice
Hobbies: Basketball, hiking, weight training, pickleball, watching good movies, sleeping

Su Stephen headshot

Stephen Su, D.O.

Hometown: Virginia Beach, VA
College: William & Mary
Medical School: VCOM - Virginia
Favorite thing about residency: The people – how supportive and kind everyone is. The attendings truly care about our raining. Co-residents are fantastic.
Favorite thing about Newport News: Traditions Brewing Company, Aago Indian/Nepalese restaurant, the outdoor converts at Port Warwick
Goals after residency: Outpatient Family Medicine in the Hampton Road area
Hobbies: Football (Go Hokies), video games, skateboarding, movies

Sydnor Shavanni headshot

Shavanni Sydnor, D.O.

Hometown: Caroline, VA
College: JMU
Medical school: VCOM
Favorite thing about residency: Honestly the people. Everyone is so friendly and welcoming
Favorite thing about Newport News: Newport News is close to my family but not too close. The area offers a wide variety of food and entertainment, there is always something do
Goals after residency: I would love to work in an outpatient clinic in particular in an underserved area
Hobbies: Watching movies, playing with my cats

Teague Hannah headshot

Hannah Teague, D.O.

Hometown: Monroe, NC
College: Wingate University
Medical school: Marian University COM
Favorite thing about residency: my co-residents!!! also really enjoyed getting to know the patients
Favorite thing about Newport News: close to the beach, good food and good breweries, Noland trail
Goals after residency: work outpatient with an emphasis on women’s health in a clinic near home
Hobbies: Going to the beach, eating, reading, hanging out with fam/friends, eating some more, screaming Taylor lyrics in the car, rewatching friends

Willis Chanel headshot

Chanel Willis, M.D.

Hometown: Stafford, VA
College: Virginia Commonwealth University
Medical School: University of Medicine and Health Sciences (UMHS)
Favorite thing about residency: hanging out with my co-residents
Favorite thing about Newport News: the food as I'm a huge foodie person
Goals after residency: to practice in under a group for a few years and later consider practice in a rural area
Hobbies: Trying new foods and travelling to different countries

Class of 2025
Abraham_Bency headshot

Bency Abraham, D.O.

Hometown: Lakewood, CO
College: University of Colorado Denver
Medical School: Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine (Colorado)
Favorite thing about residency: The residents and faculty are the greatest thing about our residency. We all love to laugh together!
Favorite thing about Newport News: I love that there is a large variety of food options available here regardless of the occasion.
Goals after residency: I would love to practice in an outpatient clinic setting following residency.
Hobbies: I love going on outdoor walks/hikes, kickboxing, and finding new brunch spots to try!

Abuali_Sarah headshot

Sarah Abuali, M.D.

Hometown: Washington DC / Fairfax, VA
College: Boston University
Medical School: St. George's University School of Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: The residency team/family!
Favorite thing about Newport News: Location, I can explore Williamsburg and Virginia Beach which are close by.
Goals after residency: To serve underserved communities locally and globally and to continue being a patient advocate whether it is through building relationships in daily patient encounters or continuing my contribution to medicine through research.
Hobbies: I enjoy painting, reading, traveling, writing, spending time with family/friends, game nights, and kickboxing. I've been to 14 countries including Malaysia, Greece, Indonesia and Czech Republic. I really enjoy experiencing cultures, museums, cuisines ,and meeting new people!

Ahadzada Zemar headshot

Zemar Ahadzada, D.O.

Hometown: Falls Church, VA
College: George Mason University
Medical School: Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: Finally being able to take all the things I’ve learned in medical school and put into practice
Favorite thing about Newport News: The different varieties of food available, the number of beaches nearby, and proximity to Richmond and D.C.
Goals after residency: Work in outpatient family medicine
Hobbies: Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Sports, and being outdoors.

Brodsky Brett headshot

Brett Brodsky, D.O.

Hometown: Baltimore, MD (Go Ravens! Go Orioles!)
College: Johns Hopkins University
Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Virginia
Favorite thing about residency: My favorite thing about residency so far has been meeting so many great doctors committed to their craft and helping their patients. Riverside is also a beautiful hospital and it seems to get better everyday. I am enjoying how much I am learning about being the best doctor I can be. Looking forward to getting great training from a program that really cares about their residents and the surrounding community.
Favorite thing about Newport News: I have enjoyed all of the little pockets of neighborhoods in Newport News. Yes almost everything is on Jefferson avenue, but it is fun to venture into the side streets and find new restaurants and hang out spots. I also love how close it is to the beach and some very fun cities in Williamsburg, Norfolk, and Virginia Beach.
Goals after residency: My main goal after residency is to do a Sports Medicine Fellowship. After that, I would love to be more proficient in ultrasound to help with Sports Medicine and my primary care skillset as well. I would love to be a team doctor for a college or university at some point.
Hobbies: I love to stay active in the gym as well as outside. I am an avid golfer, listener of podcasts and reader of books. I go to Trivia at the local breweries as well. I also love to take walks with my girlfriend, Tay and our golden retriever, Lieutenant, who goes by Louie.

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Samuel Dobbs, M.D.

Hometown: Westport, New Zealand
College: Virginia Commonwealth University
Medical School: St. George's University School of Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: The supportive learning environment
Favorite thing about Newport News: My favorite thing about Newport News is it's small town feel while still having everything you need. There's a great restaurant and brewery scene here without having to drive too far. It's close to Richmond and Virginia Beach when that's what you're looking for, and it's close to Yorktown, and more rural areas when that's what you're looking for too.
Goals after residency: Community level primary care
Hobbies: Sailing, Running, and Camping

Fatima Farooq, MD

Fatima Farooq, M.D.

Hometown: Pakistan
Medical School: Shifa College of Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: Opportunity to learn and professionally grow in a genuinely welcoming, friendly, and supportive environment at Riverside.
Favorite thing about Newport News: Location, close to family in NOVA, and the fact that everything is accessible and available nearby.
Goals after residency: Still in the process of exploring my options but the aim at the end of my residency training is to be equipped with all the necessary skills needed to effectively serve the community.
Hobbies: Traveling, Photography, Cooking, Cricket, Reading, Staying in touch with family.
Favorite Quote: "If you think education is expensive, try ignorance." - Robert Orben

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Kristina Fisher, D.O.

Hometown: Buffalo, MN
College: Liberty University
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: Getting to know all the patients! Also the fact that the all the residents and attendings feel like a large family.
Favorite thing about Newport News: So many food options!
Goals after residency: Rural medicine and wound care. Moving to a place I can go fishing on a big lake.
Hobbies: Crafty things, short naps, home improvement projects, long naps, trying to keep up with lingo my kids use.
I was a cryptologist in the Navy for six years, only been to Disney World one time… I know, disappointing, and have dreams to get my kids in love with Harry Potter as much as me, so we can all go to Universal studios. Also, biggest Office fan.

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Sarah Hicks, D.O.

Hometown: Dunnellon, FL
College: University of Florida
Medical School: Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: The attendings and faculty are amazing. This program does a great job making you feel like family
Favorite thing about Newport News: Diversity of the area and being a quick drive to the beach
Goals after residency: I am interested in returning to a small town to practice rural medicine
Hobbies: I enjoy spending time with my 3 dogs and playing soccer

Kim Brian headshot

Brian Kim, D.O.

Hometown: Burke, VA
College: Virginia Commonwealth University
Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Virginia
Favorite thing about residency: Working with my fellow residents and faculty
Favorite thing about Newport News: Close to the water and my hometown
Goals after residency: Outpatient Family Medicine in Virginia
Hobbies: Cooking and trying new foods with my wife, spoiling my Goldendoodle, video games, and playing guitar

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Gina Nathwani, M.D.

Hometown: Newton, MA
College: Boston University
Medical School: American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: The faculty, staff, and co-residents are so down-to-earth, supportive and friendly! Also free food/coffee/tea/snacks etc.
Favorite thing about Newport News: Everything is easily accessible: groceries, restaurants, stores, gyms. The beaches and trails are nice too.
Goals after residency: Outpatient clinic/private practice.
Hobbies: Thrifting, going to the gym, buying a ridiculous amount of scented candles, trying local restaurants, hanging out with friends/family, traveling to new cities, laughing at memes, spending way too much time watching reality TV or re-watching episodes from the first 3 seasons of Spongebob Squarepants.

Sean Nielsen, MD

Sean Nielsen, M.D.

Hometown: East Hampton, NY
College: Virginia Commonwealth University
Medical School: Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: My co-residents and faculty
Favorite thing about Newport News: I live in Williamsburg and the best thing is the Cheese Shop sandwiches
Goals after residency: Working at an outpatient clinic 4 days a week
Hobbies: Spending time with my girlfriend and go. Listening to podcasts.

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Vera Okons, M.D.

Hometown: Fayetteville, NC
College: East Carolina University
Medical School: Virginia Commonwealth University
Favorite thing about residency: Support faculty and co-residents
Favorite thing about Newport News: Proximity to everything I need
Goals after residency: Outpatient medicine
Hobbies: Experiencing new restaurants. Spending quality time with family and friends.

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Matthew Taylor, D.O.

Hometown: Parkersburg, WV
College: West Virginia University
Medical School: West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: You get to work with and learn from all sorts of amazing people.
Favorite thing about Newport News: Within a short drive of a plethora of different activities.
Goals after residency: Considering returning to WV to practice rural medicine.
Hobbies: Sports, Hiking, Tech/computers, Bowling

Class of 2024
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Derek B. Clark, D.O.

Outpatient Family Medicine, Riverside Shore Memorial - Metompkin Office, Parksley, VA

Dang Frank headshot

Frank Dang, D.O.

Outpatient Family Medicine, Physicians East, Greenville, NC

Jordan Dehli, D.O.

Outpatient Family Medicine, Riverside Mercury West Family Medicine, Newport News, VA

Nicole J. Ha, DO

Nicole J. Ha, D.O.

Family Medicine, Kaiser Permanente's Camp Springs Medical Center, Temple Hills, MD

Amelia Ruth Hubach, DO

Amelia R. Hubach, D.O.

Locum then DPC

David Kirkland, MD

David Kirkland, M.D.

Family Medicine, Family Physicians of Tidewater, Norfolk, VA

Miller Michaela headshot

Michaela F. Miller, D.O.

Family Medicine, University of Virginia (UVA), Warrenton, VA

Proctor Kaitlyn headshot

Kaitlyn C. Proctor, D.O.

Primary Care, TPMG Hidenwood, Newport News, VA

Ray Matthew headshot

Matthew D. Ray, D.O.

Primary Care, TMPG City Center, Newport News, VA

Rey Soquel headshot

Soquel Rey, M.D.

Hospitalist, Bon Secours, Midlothian, VA

Schultz Makenna headshot

Makenna L. Schultz, D.O.

Primary Care, Mercy Clinic, Edmond, OK

Vu Michelle headshot

Michelle Vu, D.O.

Outpatient, Bon Secours - Charter Colony Family Practice, Midlothian, VA

Bennett Christina DO

Christina Bennett, D.O.

Hometown: Lynchburg, Virginia
College: VCU
Medical School: VCOM-Virginia
Favorite thing about residency: How supportive the faculty is, hanging out with my wonderful coresidents and building relationships with patients
Favorite thing about Newport News: Having more diverse food options and being close to friends and family
Goals after residency: Work in an outpatient setting in Virginia, possibly in a rural area
Hobbies: Reading, game nights with friends, spending time with my family and my cats, walking/hiking outdoors

Bradley Rachel Loretta MD

Rachel Bradley, M.D.

Hometown: Yorktown, VA
College: Virginia Tech
Medical School: EVMS
Favorite thing about residency: Getting to take care of people while working with the most awesome co-residents!
Favorite thing about Newport News: You can always find something to do around here! Lots of great food, beaches, and entertainment.
Goals after residency: My biggest goal is maintaining the same love of humanity and medicine that I'm entering residency with. I'm also considering pursuing a palliative care fellowship!
Hobbies: spinning, knitting, crochet, and weaving. I also love going to the movies and spending time with my family and friends. 

Davila Andrea Nadramia DO

Andrea Davila, D.O.

Hometown:  Yorktown, VA
College:  Virginia Tech
Medical School:  Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine – Virginia Campus (VCOM-VA)
Favorite thing about residency:  Without a doubt, the people. I’ve felt incredibly supported throughout the transition into residency. I also value caring for such a diverse patient population. Many of our patients have significant unmet health needs, and it’s rewarding to make a meaningful difference in their care. I especially enjoy being able to provide care in Spanish.
Favorite thing about Newport News:  Being close to friends and family! Having grown up here, it’s special to stay connected to the community.
Goals after residency: To work in an outpatient clinic setting with a focus on primary care dermatology, women’s health, and wound care, while continuing to provide care in Spanish for patients in the community.
Hobbies:  Traveling, pilates, skiing, discovering new music, and reading fiction, memoirs, and classic literature

Dunaway Robert Logan DO

Robert Dunaway, D.O.

Hometown: Warsaw, VA
College: Virginia Commonwealth University
Medical School: LUCOM
Favorite thing about residency: Learning while actively practicing medicine.
Favorite thing about Newport News: Proximity to beaches and diversity of the restaurant scene.
Goals after residency: TBD
Hobbies: Reading, Cooking, Hiking

Gable Emily Claire DO

Emily Gable, D.O.

Hometown: Arnold, MD
College: University of Tennessee - Knoxville
Medical School:  University of Pikeville, Kentucky College of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: Spending time with my co-residents, building relationships with my patients, and the amazing support from faculty and staff. The teaching environment here really inspires learning and growth.
Favorite thing about Newport News: All the amazing places to eat and being close to my family.
Goals after residency: I hope to work in an outpatient family practice where I can also provide OMT to my patients.
Hobbies: Baking, rewatching the TV show Friends, redecorating my house, and spending time with my husband and two cats.

Hajibegli Navin DO

Navin Hajibegli, D.O.

Hometown: Chantilly, VA
College: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Virginia Campus
Medical School:  VCOM
Favorite thing about residency: The people
Favorite thing about Newport News: Costco, BJ’s, and Trader Joe’s
Goals after residency: Reaching financial independence, enjoying the rest of life with friends and family, enjoying my career, opening a wildlife rescue
Hobbies: Fishing and fish tank keeping

Hoffer Caitlin Brianne MD

Caitlin Hoffer, M.D.

Hometown: New Cumberland, PA
College: Mansfield University of Pennsylvania
Medical School: Penn State College of Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: My co-residents 🙂
Favorite thing about Newport News: Being so close to the coast!
Goals after residency: Provide my patients with the best care possible, either in the hospital or in clinic.
Hobbies: Taking care of my many indoor and outdoor plants, reading, baking, staying active

Merdinger Erik Alexander DO

Erik Merdinger, D.O.

Hometown: Lake in the Hills, IL
College:  University of Iowa
Medical School: University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite thing about residency:  My co-residents are easily the highlight of residency — sharp, dependable, and always there when it counts.
Favorite thing about Newport News: Newport News has all the essentials, from Costco to Whole Foods, and I love being close to the water and having so many parks nearby.
Goals after residency: My goals include potentially pursuing a sports medicine fellowship, continuing to practice OMT, and focusing on lifestyle medicine and chronic disease care.
Hobbies:  Resistance training (aesthetics), sports & recreation (soccer, disc golf, basketball, tennis, boxing, snowsports & hiking), traveling (national parks & family in Europe), video games (virtual reality golf, competitive Super Smash Bros & co-op games with fiancée), reading (sci-fi, fantasy & mystery)

Payne Victoria DO

Victoria Payne, D.O.

Hometown: Lombard, IL
College: University of Illinois at Chicago
Medical School: Rocky Vista University College of Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: working with patients and providers from a variety of backgrounds and constantly learning from them
Favorite thing about Newport News: going to the beaches
Goals after residency: provide care under resourced patients
Hobbies: biking, swimming, rock climbing, gardening, reading, 

Rhodes Katherine Nicole DO

Katherine Rhodes, D.O.

Hometown: Hollis, New Hampshire
College:  UMASS Lowell
Medical School: Campbell University
Favorite thing about residency: Having autonomy while still knowing I have strong support behind me
Favorite thing about Newport News: The honesty of patients and the wide spectrum of disease here is humbling. It’s both a privilege and a reminder of how vital it is to strengthen primary care access for the community.
Goals after residency: I want to continue caring for patients across generations while also advocating for stronger systems that keep people out of the ED and better connected to primary care. I hope to be part of closing the gaps in care, especially for those who feel unseen or disconnected from the healthcare system.
Hobbies:  Spending time with my dog Rhaegar, weightlifting, functional strength /flexibility goals at the gym, reading (epic fantasy, true crime, human behavior), being outside in nature, art of mindfulness/meditation/self-reflection, napping, Netflix binging and exploring all the food places

Safford Sara DO

Sara Safford, D.O.

Hometown: Nervesa della Battaglia, Italy
College:  Christopher Newport University
Medical School: VCOM-VA
Favorite thing about residency: My co-residents!!! I could not imagine doing this with a different group of people.  
Favorite thing about Newport News: Hilton village is the cutest historic downtown. I love the farmer's market and all the restaurants there. It's also nice to be close to family.
Goals after residency: I am planning on working at a Veterans Affairs clinic since I am a HPSP scholarship recipient. After that, I would love to work in an outpatient clinic and focus on women's health, global health, and overall preventative care. 
Hobbies: I love cooking, crafting, gardening, and traveling. My favorite thing to do on a day off is to try a new coffee shop!

Sidana Soumya Sarang DO

Soumya Sidana, D.O.

Hometown: Raleigh, NC
College:  Wilmington
Medical School: Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: new forever friends
Favorite thing about Newport News: proximity to water/ restaurant scene
Goals after residency: TBD
Hobbies: Delta Skymiles enthusiast, struggling Instagram influencer, bathroom concert performer

Smucker Marchelle Renee DO

Marchelle Smucker, D.O.

Hometown: Woodward, PA
College: Eastern Mennonite University
Medical School: VCOM-VA
Favorite thing about residency: getting to work with the whole care team
Favorite thing about Newport News:  All the great trails and fantastic restaurants to eat at
Goals after residency: Explore and learn more medicine!
Hobbies: crocheting, climbing

Ellis Elizabeth Baylor headshot

Elizabeth Ellis, D.O.

Hometown: Tappanannock, VA
College: Christopher Newport
Medical School: VCOM - Virginia
Favorite thing about residency: The people – this is such a family
Favorite thing about Newport News: The best sunsets
Goals after residency: Family Medicine/OMT Attending
Hobbies: Grocery shopping and couponing

Fordice Daniel headshot

Daniel Fordice, D.O.

Hometown: Virginia Beach, VA
College: Old Dominion University
Medical School: VCOM - Virginia
Favorite thing about residency: My peers and patients! Riverside is full of friendly and caring people that make the tough days better. Also, I just love getting to finally be a doctor
Favorite thing about Newport News: You are so close to a variety of things. The beaches are minutes away, mountains hours away, and DC is a fun day trip
Goals after residency: I want to go into clinic-based medicine with a focus on queer and transgendered in an urban setting
Hobbies: Weightlifting, traveling, reading, eating, sleeping

Graham David headshot

David Graham, D.O.

Hometown: South Bend IN
College: Indiana University - Bloomington IN
Medical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine - Indianapolis IN
Favorite thing about residency: Patient interactions & hanging out with my co-residents
Favorite thing about Newport News: It's diversity in food and central location to multiple big cities
Goals after residency: Outpatient clinic & seeing all ages
Hobbies: Watching lots of movies, discovering all the regional breweries and restaurants with my wife and co-residents, hiking, tennis, and watching college football and basketball

Gupta Niharika headshot

Niharika Gupta, M.D.

Hometown: South Bend IN
College: Indiana University - Bloomington IN
Medical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine - Indianapolis IN
Favorite thing about residency: Patient interactions & hanging out with my co-residents
Favorite thing about Newport News: It's diversity in food and central location to multiple big cities
Goals after residency: Outpatient clinic & seeing all ages
Hobbies: Watching lots of movies, discovering all the regional breweries and restaurants with my wife and co-residents, hiking, tennis, and watching college football and basketball

Hunter Isobel headshot

Isobel Hunter, M.D.

Hometown: York, UK
College: University of Nottingham
Medical School: Same as college, I did the 5 year undergraduate medicine course.
Favorite thing about residency: Returning to being a doctor and experiencing different specialties.
Favorite thing about Newport News: Being near my husband's family (free babysitting!) and the walkability and community feeling of our Hilton neighborhood.
Goals after residency: To work in a small practice near home and know my patients personally, allowing me to provide the best tailored care.
Hobbies: Singing, swimming, climbing, drawing, and playing mad games with my four year old.

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Megan Knapp, M.D.

Hometown: Toano, VA
College: Virginia Tech
Medical School: Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: The supportive teaching culture created by the attendings and residents, as well as the atmosphere of the hospital - everyone is so friendly and welcoming. It's a very unique hospital; I've never worked anywhere with such a positive vibe.
Favorite thing about Newport News: All of the different food options and living close to my family.
Goals after residency: Outpatient primary care +/- some inpatient time (TBD)
Hobbies: Spending time with my husband, new baby, and two dogs, dating reality shows (I know), paddle boarding, and embroidery.

Lovo Thi headshot

Thi Lovo, M.D.

Hometown: Harrisonburg, VA
College: University of Virginia
Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM-VA campus)
Favorite thing about residency: The amazing people who make Riverside unique and the vast opportunity to learn alongside amazing doctors and staffs.
Favorite thing about Newport News: the diverse culture and activities to do
Goals after residency: Be part of an outpatient practice and travel out of the country to provide medical care as much as I can.
Hobbies: Drawing, walking with my corgis, and traveling.

Maldonado-Rivera Perla Marina

Perla Maldonado-Rivera, M.D.

Hometown: Comuy, Puerto Rico
College: University of Puerto Rico at Mayguez
Medical School: University of Medicine and Health Sciences
Favorite thing about residency: Getting to know my colleagues and sharing new experiences with them. Having the ability to learn new things every day at work. How inclusive and considerate my colleagues are towards me.
Favorite thing about Newport News: Living in a place that is close to the sea, since it reminds me of Puerto Rico. How nice and welcoming people in this area have been towards me.
Goals after residency: Work in a health group, travel to new places, buy a house and get at least 2 dogs.
Hobbies: Cooking, Hiking, Trails, going to the beach, traveling, road trips

Paudel Diksha headshot

Dikaha Paudel, M.D.

Hometown: Dan, Nepal
College: Trinity International College
Medical School: China Three Gorges University
Favorite thing about residency: Working closely with a diverse team of health professionals, mentorship support, building relationships with patients and making tangible difference in lives.
Favorite thing about Newport News: Beach access, restaurants, weather, diversity
Goals after residency: Stay in area and work as a primary care doctor
Hobbies: Cooking, watching suspense thriller movies.

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Zachary Treser, D.O.

Hometown: Blacksburg, VA
College: Virginia Tech
Medical School: VCOM-Virginia
Favorite thing about residency: Building relationships with my patients and spending time with my co-residents
Favorite thing about Newport News: Being close to the beach and living near family
Goals after residency: Work in outpatient family medicine with focuses on pediatrics and sports medicine patients
Hobbies: Exercising, pickleball, spending time with my wife and dogs.

Vaughan Christopher Deane headshot

Christopher Vaughan, D.O.

Hometown: Williamsburg, VA.
College: Old Dominion University, Norfolk, VA.
Medical School: Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine, Ft. Smith, AR.
Favorite thing about residency: Co-residents and Faculty.
Favorite thing about Newport News: There's lots of fun stuff in the area and it's close to my hometown.
Goals after residency: Outpatient Family Practice.
Hobbies: Weightlifting and building a 1953 f100 show truck.

Yadav Sushmita headshot

Sushmita Yadav, M.D.

Hometown: Originally Saptari, Nepal and in USA I would like to call Fairfax, VA my hometown
College: Jalalabad Ragib Rabeya
Medical school: Jalalabad Ragib Rabeya medical college, Sylhet, Bangladesh
Favorite thing about residency: the people, patients, location
Favorite thing about Newport News: close to beach, calm and quiet, close to NOVA, proximity to family and friends
Goal after residency: outpatient family medicine clinic might be
Hobbies: Traveling, cooking, spending time with family and friends

Allison Zamora, DO

Allison Zamora, D.O.

Hometown: Advance, NC
College: UNC Chapel Hill
Medical School: LUCOM
Favorite thing about residency: I love the people! Residency can be hard but when you have seniors and faculty who are excited to teach and support you, it makes things much better!
Favorite thing about Newport News: There are so many opportunities to get outside and lots of cool places to explore! Plus we are a quick drive to OBX!
Goals after residency: I would love a combination of inpatient and outpatient medicine
Hobbies: I love being outside! - hiking, running, gardening. I also enjoy cooking, trying new restaurants with my husband, and hosting hang outs with friends.

Dwivedy Pritty headshot

Pritty Dwivedy, D.O.

Hometown: Great Falls, Virginia
College: George Mason University
Medical School: VCOM Virginia Campus
Favorite thing about residency: Learning as much as possible about general medicine, serving patients in need from all backgrounds and age groups, and working with academically strong and supportive attendings and co-residents
Favorite thing about Newport News: Being close to the beach and going boating
Goals after residency: Working in an outpatient clinic with other family medicine/internal medicine attendings from an established medical group
Hobbies: Spending time with friends and family, working out, watching mysteries/psychological thrillers and reality TV, being by the water, eating delicious vegetarian food, and traveling

Frommer Brett headshot

Brett Frommer, D.O.

Hometown: Highland Park, IL
College: Indiana University Bloomington
Medical School: A.T. Still Kirksville
Favorite thing about residency: Great culture, happy hours with colleagues, we are well fed
Favorite thing about Newport News: Club sports, pickleball, volleyball
Goals after residency: start with outpatient and some hospital moonlighting
Hobbies: Guitar, martial arts, pickleball, cooking

Ho Brian headshot

Brian Ho, M.D.

Hometown: Annadale, VA
College: George Mason University
Medical School: Saba University
Favorite thing about residency: The people
Favorite thing about Newport News: Good commute, good weather, friendly people
Goals after residency: Outpatient
Hobbies: Cooking

Litchfield Cristina headshot

Cristina Litchfield, D.O.

Hometown: Bismarck, ND
College: Colorado State University
Medical School: Des Moines University
Favorite thing about residency: The people! I have enjoyed getting to know and work with my co-residents, the attendings, and everyone else involved with the program.
Favorite thing about Newport News: The Noland Trail, family friendly neighborhoods and lots of restaurants to try.
Goals after residency: Outpatient family medicine
Hobbies: Spending time with my husband, son and 2 dogs. Being outdoors, traveling

Lynch Ashane headshot

Ashane Lynch, M.D.

Hometown: Linstead, Jamaica and moved to Fayetteville, NC
College: Queens University of Charlotte
Medical School: Trinity School of Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: The people! Everyone has been helpful and approachable, and my co-residents have been a pleasure to work with.
Favorite thing about Newport News: The local festivals are great! Busch Gardens is also very close, and I've really enjoyed their seasonal events
Goals after residency: I'm interested in lifestyle medicine and preventative healthcare. My goal is to practice outpatient FM after residency.
Hobbies: I'm definitely a homebody, so when I have time I spend it attempting to garden in my apartment, watching anime, horror movies or playing video games.

Moon Tae headshot

Tae Moon, D.O.

Hometown: Annandale, VA
College: Virginia Commonwealth University
Medical School: VCOM - Virginia
Favorite thing about residency: Interacting with many diverse patients and learning how best to treat their medical issues
Favorite thing about Newport News: Food
Goals after residency: Practicing family medicine and continuing to learn and improve
Hobbies: Spending time with my wife, family and our Doberman, Traveling, cooking and trying new diverse cuisines

Notvedt Emily headshot

Emily Notvedt, D.O.

Hometown: Newport News, VA
College: Christopher Newport University
Medical School: VCOM - Virginia
Favorite thing about residency: My co-residents
Favorite thing about Newport News: The Noland Trail
Goals after residency: Outpatient Family Medicine, with an emphasis on Women's Health
Hobbies: My dogs, walking trails, going to the beach, crochet, trying new breweries

Omer Muhammad headshot

Muhammad Omer, DO

Hometown: Langrial, Pakistan
College: UMBC – University Maryland
Medical School: VCOM - Virginia
Favorite thing about residency: The diversity of the patients and my co-residents
Favorite thing about Newport News: Crown Fried Chicken
Goals after residency: Work in a rural area with underserved patients
Hobbies: Watching movies, cricket, and reading

Setambar Neama headshot

Neama Setambar, D.O.

Hometown: Centreville, VA
College: Virginia Commonwealth University
Medical School: VCOM - Virginia
Favorite thing about residency: Great co-residents, teachers, very supportive environment and fun place to learn!
Favorite thing about Newport News: All the parks/trails, food options, close to beach
Goals after residency: Sports medicine fellowship then outpatient practice
Hobbies: Basketball, hiking, weight training, pickleball, watching good movies, sleeping

Su Stephen headshot

Stephen Su, D.O.

Hometown: Virginia Beach, VA
College: William & Mary
Medical School: VCOM - Virginia
Favorite thing about residency: The people – how supportive and kind everyone is. The attendings truly care about our raining. Co-residents are fantastic.
Favorite thing about Newport News: Traditions Brewing Company, Aago Indian/Nepalese restaurant, the outdoor converts at Port Warwick
Goals after residency: Outpatient Family Medicine in the Hampton Road area
Hobbies: Football (Go Hokies), video games, skateboarding, movies

Sydnor Shavanni headshot

Shavanni Sydnor, D.O.

Hometown: Caroline, VA
College: JMU
Medical school: VCOM
Favorite thing about residency: Honestly the people. Everyone is so friendly and welcoming
Favorite thing about Newport News: Newport News is close to my family but not too close. The area offers a wide variety of food and entertainment, there is always something do
Goals after residency: I would love to work in an outpatient clinic in particular in an underserved area
Hobbies: Watching movies, playing with my cats

Teague Hannah headshot

Hannah Teague, D.O.

Hometown: Monroe, NC
College: Wingate University
Medical school: Marian University COM
Favorite thing about residency: my co-residents!!! also really enjoyed getting to know the patients
Favorite thing about Newport News: close to the beach, good food and good breweries, Noland trail
Goals after residency: work outpatient with an emphasis on women’s health in a clinic near home
Hobbies: Going to the beach, eating, reading, hanging out with fam/friends, eating some more, screaming Taylor lyrics in the car, rewatching friends

Willis Chanel headshot

Chanel Willis, M.D.

Hometown: Stafford, VA
College: Virginia Commonwealth University
Medical School: University of Medicine and Health Sciences (UMHS)
Favorite thing about residency: hanging out with my co-residents
Favorite thing about Newport News: the food as I'm a huge foodie person
Goals after residency: to practice in under a group for a few years and later consider practice in a rural area
Hobbies: Trying new foods and travelling to different countries

Abraham_Bency headshot

Bency Abraham, D.O.

Hometown: Lakewood, CO
College: University of Colorado Denver
Medical School: Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine (Colorado)
Favorite thing about residency: The residents and faculty are the greatest thing about our residency. We all love to laugh together!
Favorite thing about Newport News: I love that there is a large variety of food options available here regardless of the occasion.
Goals after residency: I would love to practice in an outpatient clinic setting following residency.
Hobbies: I love going on outdoor walks/hikes, kickboxing, and finding new brunch spots to try!

Abuali_Sarah headshot

Sarah Abuali, M.D.

Hometown: Washington DC / Fairfax, VA
College: Boston University
Medical School: St. George's University School of Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: The residency team/family!
Favorite thing about Newport News: Location, I can explore Williamsburg and Virginia Beach which are close by.
Goals after residency: To serve underserved communities locally and globally and to continue being a patient advocate whether it is through building relationships in daily patient encounters or continuing my contribution to medicine through research.
Hobbies: I enjoy painting, reading, traveling, writing, spending time with family/friends, game nights, and kickboxing. I've been to 14 countries including Malaysia, Greece, Indonesia and Czech Republic. I really enjoy experiencing cultures, museums, cuisines ,and meeting new people!

Ahadzada Zemar headshot

Zemar Ahadzada, D.O.

Hometown: Falls Church, VA
College: George Mason University
Medical School: Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: Finally being able to take all the things I’ve learned in medical school and put into practice
Favorite thing about Newport News: The different varieties of food available, the number of beaches nearby, and proximity to Richmond and D.C.
Goals after residency: Work in outpatient family medicine
Hobbies: Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Sports, and being outdoors.

Brodsky Brett headshot

Brett Brodsky, D.O.

Hometown: Baltimore, MD (Go Ravens! Go Orioles!)
College: Johns Hopkins University
Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Virginia
Favorite thing about residency: My favorite thing about residency so far has been meeting so many great doctors committed to their craft and helping their patients. Riverside is also a beautiful hospital and it seems to get better everyday. I am enjoying how much I am learning about being the best doctor I can be. Looking forward to getting great training from a program that really cares about their residents and the surrounding community.
Favorite thing about Newport News: I have enjoyed all of the little pockets of neighborhoods in Newport News. Yes almost everything is on Jefferson avenue, but it is fun to venture into the side streets and find new restaurants and hang out spots. I also love how close it is to the beach and some very fun cities in Williamsburg, Norfolk, and Virginia Beach.
Goals after residency: My main goal after residency is to do a Sports Medicine Fellowship. After that, I would love to be more proficient in ultrasound to help with Sports Medicine and my primary care skillset as well. I would love to be a team doctor for a college or university at some point.
Hobbies: I love to stay active in the gym as well as outside. I am an avid golfer, listener of podcasts and reader of books. I go to Trivia at the local breweries as well. I also love to take walks with my girlfriend, Tay and our golden retriever, Lieutenant, who goes by Louie.

Dobbs Samuel headshot

Samuel Dobbs, M.D.

Hometown: Westport, New Zealand
College: Virginia Commonwealth University
Medical School: St. George's University School of Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: The supportive learning environment
Favorite thing about Newport News: My favorite thing about Newport News is it's small town feel while still having everything you need. There's a great restaurant and brewery scene here without having to drive too far. It's close to Richmond and Virginia Beach when that's what you're looking for, and it's close to Yorktown, and more rural areas when that's what you're looking for too.
Goals after residency: Community level primary care
Hobbies: Sailing, Running, and Camping

Fatima Farooq, MD

Fatima Farooq, M.D.

Hometown: Pakistan
Medical School: Shifa College of Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: Opportunity to learn and professionally grow in a genuinely welcoming, friendly, and supportive environment at Riverside.
Favorite thing about Newport News: Location, close to family in NOVA, and the fact that everything is accessible and available nearby.
Goals after residency: Still in the process of exploring my options but the aim at the end of my residency training is to be equipped with all the necessary skills needed to effectively serve the community.
Hobbies: Traveling, Photography, Cooking, Cricket, Reading, Staying in touch with family.
Favorite Quote: "If you think education is expensive, try ignorance." - Robert Orben

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Kristina Fisher, D.O.

Hometown: Buffalo, MN
College: Liberty University
Medical School: Lincoln Memorial University DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: Getting to know all the patients! Also the fact that the all the residents and attendings feel like a large family.
Favorite thing about Newport News: So many food options!
Goals after residency: Rural medicine and wound care. Moving to a place I can go fishing on a big lake.
Hobbies: Crafty things, short naps, home improvement projects, long naps, trying to keep up with lingo my kids use.
I was a cryptologist in the Navy for six years, only been to Disney World one time… I know, disappointing, and have dreams to get my kids in love with Harry Potter as much as me, so we can all go to Universal studios. Also, biggest Office fan.

Hicks Sarah headshot

Sarah Hicks, D.O.

Hometown: Dunnellon, FL
College: University of Florida
Medical School: Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: The attendings and faculty are amazing. This program does a great job making you feel like family
Favorite thing about Newport News: Diversity of the area and being a quick drive to the beach
Goals after residency: I am interested in returning to a small town to practice rural medicine
Hobbies: I enjoy spending time with my 3 dogs and playing soccer

Kim Brian headshot

Brian Kim, D.O.

Hometown: Burke, VA
College: Virginia Commonwealth University
Medical School: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Virginia
Favorite thing about residency: Working with my fellow residents and faculty
Favorite thing about Newport News: Close to the water and my hometown
Goals after residency: Outpatient Family Medicine in Virginia
Hobbies: Cooking and trying new foods with my wife, spoiling my Goldendoodle, video games, and playing guitar

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Gina Nathwani, M.D.

Hometown: Newton, MA
College: Boston University
Medical School: American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: The faculty, staff, and co-residents are so down-to-earth, supportive and friendly! Also free food/coffee/tea/snacks etc.
Favorite thing about Newport News: Everything is easily accessible: groceries, restaurants, stores, gyms. The beaches and trails are nice too.
Goals after residency: Outpatient clinic/private practice.
Hobbies: Thrifting, going to the gym, buying a ridiculous amount of scented candles, trying local restaurants, hanging out with friends/family, traveling to new cities, laughing at memes, spending way too much time watching reality TV or re-watching episodes from the first 3 seasons of Spongebob Squarepants.

Sean Nielsen, MD

Sean Nielsen, M.D.

Hometown: East Hampton, NY
College: Virginia Commonwealth University
Medical School: Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: My co-residents and faculty
Favorite thing about Newport News: I live in Williamsburg and the best thing is the Cheese Shop sandwiches
Goals after residency: Working at an outpatient clinic 4 days a week
Hobbies: Spending time with my girlfriend and go. Listening to podcasts.

Okons-Chioma Vera headshot

Vera Okons, M.D.

Hometown: Fayetteville, NC
College: East Carolina University
Medical School: Virginia Commonwealth University
Favorite thing about residency: Support faculty and co-residents
Favorite thing about Newport News: Proximity to everything I need
Goals after residency: Outpatient medicine
Hobbies: Experiencing new restaurants. Spending quality time with family and friends.

Taylor Matthew headshot

Matthew Taylor, D.O.

Hometown: Parkersburg, WV
College: West Virginia University
Medical School: West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite thing about residency: You get to work with and learn from all sorts of amazing people.
Favorite thing about Newport News: Within a short drive of a plethora of different activities.
Goals after residency: Considering returning to WV to practice rural medicine.
Hobbies: Sports, Hiking, Tech/computers, Bowling

Clark Derek Blaine headshot

Derek B. Clark, D.O.

Outpatient Family Medicine, Riverside Shore Memorial - Metompkin Office, Parksley, VA

Dang Frank headshot

Frank Dang, D.O.

Outpatient Family Medicine, Physicians East, Greenville, NC

Jordan Dehli, D.O.

Outpatient Family Medicine, Riverside Mercury West Family Medicine, Newport News, VA

Nicole J. Ha, DO

Nicole J. Ha, D.O.

Family Medicine, Kaiser Permanente's Camp Springs Medical Center, Temple Hills, MD

Amelia Ruth Hubach, DO

Amelia R. Hubach, D.O.

Locum then DPC

David Kirkland, MD

David Kirkland, M.D.

Family Medicine, Family Physicians of Tidewater, Norfolk, VA

Miller Michaela headshot

Michaela F. Miller, D.O.

Family Medicine, University of Virginia (UVA), Warrenton, VA

Proctor Kaitlyn headshot

Kaitlyn C. Proctor, D.O.

Primary Care, TPMG Hidenwood, Newport News, VA

Ray Matthew headshot

Matthew D. Ray, D.O.

Primary Care, TMPG City Center, Newport News, VA

Rey Soquel headshot

Soquel Rey, M.D.

Hospitalist, Bon Secours, Midlothian, VA

Schultz Makenna headshot

Makenna L. Schultz, D.O.

Primary Care, Mercy Clinic, Edmond, OK

Vu Michelle headshot

Michelle Vu, D.O.

Outpatient, Bon Secours - Charter Colony Family Practice, Midlothian, VA