AAEM/RSA Board of Directors Election

Elections are now open for the AAEM/RSA Board of Directors!

Please Note: You must be an a Resident, Resident International, or Transitional member to cast a vote for the Board of Directors.

Elections Close: January 21, 2026, at 11:59pm CT

VOTE NOW

Board of Director Responsibilities

Board of Director terms are for one year. All directors are required to:

  • Participate in regular conference calls, which last approximately one hour.
  • Attend up to three in-person board meetings to be set by the board, with the final meeting taking place at the Annual AAEM Scientific Assembly in the year following board appointment. Funding is provided for these in-person meetings.
  • Fulfill other duties required by their position.
Open Positions and Responsibilities

President

  • Leads the AAEM/RSA Board of Directors.
  • Serves as the official spokesperson for AAEM/RSA.
  • Serves as the Resident Representative on the AAEM Board of Directors.
  • Requirements: All candidates running for president must have served on the board, or as a committee chair or vice chair, for at least one year. They also must be in or entering their PGY-2 or greater year of residency, rising interns (4th year medical students matching into emergency medicine) shall not be eligible.


Vice President

  • Assists the president in leading the AAEM/RSA Board of Directors.
  • Serve as spokesperson to outside organizations when asked by the president.
  • Promotes our mission by increasing AAEM/RSA membership through recruiting, developing valuable member benefits, and communicating with residency program directors.


Secretary-Treasurer

  • Oversees the finances of AAEM/RSA and maintains the budget.
  • Work with staff to prepare budgets and treasurer’s reports.
  • Approve AAEM/RSA checks in a timely manner.


At-Large Board Members (6 positions)

  • Serves as a board liaison to one or more of the committees with assignments being determined by the president. (All efforts will be made to ensure that you are assigned to a role you wish to fulfill.)

Meet the Candidates

Please Note: Nominees are listed in alphabetical order by last name for each position.

Candidates for President

Arya Hawkins-Zafarnia, MD MA

Arya Hawkins-Zafarnia, MD MA

Candidate for President

Residency Program: Yale New Haven

Nominated/Endorsed by: Yusuke Kishimoto, MD, At-Large Board Director

Nomination Statement

I am writing to offer my support for Dr. Arya Hawkins-Zafarnia, a second-year EM resident at the Yale University, for his nomination for the position of AAEM/RSA President.

Arya is an exceptional leader whose vision, commitment, and proven record of service makes him an outstanding candidate for the role of AAEM/RSA President. I have had the special privilege of working alongside Arya during my time in medical school, where he stepped into the role of incoming president of our Emergency Medicine Interest Group following my own presidency. Even then, his dedication to advancing emergency medicine education, advocacy, and student engagement was clear and deeply impactful. From organizing workshop, recruitment events, and providing opportunities for education, he steps forward with thoughtful, innovative solutions grounded in collaboration and service. Arya has continued to expand his influence on a national scale through his service as an serving on the AAEM/RSA Board with me as an At-Large Board Member and, most recently, on Executive Board as Secretary. In these roles, he has consistently demonstrated reliability, strategic thinking, and an unwavering commitment to representing and uplifting the voices of medical students and residents. Arya has also been a vital force within the AAEM/RSA Critical Care Section, where he has championed the Intro to Critical Care Workshop at Scientific Assembly. His work has provided invaluable hands-on learning opportunities for trainees seeking to strengthen their knowledge and skills. Further solidifying his impact on education, Arya co-authored and published the Critical Care Pocket Guide, expanding access to concise, practical, and clinically relevant resources for learners across the country. Arya embodies the mission and values of AAEM/RSA. His experience, initiative, and proven dedication to the growth of both individuals and the organization make him an ideal choice for President. I am confident that under his leadership, AAEM/RSA will continue to expand its impact, strengthen its community, and boldly shape the future of emergency medicine.

Candidates for Vice President

Tabitha Baca, MD

Tabitha Baca, MD

Candidate for Vice President

Residency Program: University of Miami/Jackson Health System

Nominated/Endorsed by: Self-nomination

Candidate Statement

I am running for the Board of Directors because I believe in fostering an inclusive, culturally competent emergency medicine community;  one that values advocacy as much as acuity. I took a non-traditional path to medicine with almost 10 years of experience working in public health in Central America, Western Africa and Australia prior to starting medical school. This journey has given me a global perspective, and a steadfast dedication to equitable care.

My experiences have taught me adaptability, resilience, and teamwork. Living and working in resource-limited settings with Indigenous and international communities deepened my understanding of global and cultural contexts in healthcare. I learned that communication, collaboration, and cultural humility are as essential.

As both a patient and an advocate, I’ve seen how compassion and active listening transform care. My own experience navigating years of undiagnosed illness shaped how I connect with patients’ recognizing their vulnerability and tailoring my approach to their needs. This commitment to advocacy extends beyond the bedside: I’ve contributed to research reducing stigma in LGBTQIA+ care, co-authored a white paper with the National Hispanic Medical Association to promote diversity in medicine, and worked in women’s health to advance reproductive justice.

Marykate Decker, DO MSD

Marykate Decker, DO MS

Candidate for Vice President

Residency Program: Cooper Medical School of Rowan University

Nominated/Endorsed by: Self-nomination

Candidate Statement

It is with great enthusiasm that I nominate myself for the position of AAEM/RSA Vice President or At-Large Board Member. Over the past year, I have had the privilege of serving as an At-Large Board Member, an experience that has been both deeply fulfilling and energizing. Being surrounded by such bright, compassionate, and mission-driven colleagues has been an honor, and it has strengthened my commitment to the values and future of Emergency Medicine. AAEM/RSA has given me the opportunity to grow as a leader and to channel my passion into meaningful advocacy for our specialty. I am confident that either of these roles will allow me to continue serving in ways that fuel both my advocacy efforts and my commitment to mentorship. My dedication to medical education is what initially drew me to the AAEM/RSA board, and that motivation has only grown stronger.

In my current role, I serve as the liaison between the Education Council and AAEM/RSA, where I have been especially excited to help develop initiatives and projects that support the academic and professional growth of our medical student and resident members. Beyond the organization, I remain an active mentor to students locally and nationwide. I serve as a mentor through EMRA and participate in the UnderDocs mentorship program for underrepresented pre-medical and medical students. I bring extensive leadership experience, a collaborative spirit, and a deep desire to uplift my colleagues in Emergency Medicine. It would be an honor to continue the work we have started together and to bring new, innovative ideas to AAEM/RSA in the year ahead. Thank you sincerely for your consideration.

Candidates for Secretary-Treasurer

Ava Omidvar, MD MPH FP-CD

Ava Omidvar, MD MPH FP-C

Candidate for Secretary-Treasurer

Residency Program: University of Maryland School of Medicine

Nominated/Endorsed by: Hanna Hussein, MD, RSA At-Large Director

Nomination Statement

I am pleased to nominate Ava Omidvar for the position of Secretary-Treasurer for AAEM/RSA. As a fellow Emergency Medicine resident, I have had the privilege of working with Ava and have consistently been impressed by her steady leadership, professionalism, and commitment to supporting learners in our specialty. She approaches every responsibility with thoughtfulness and reliability, and her dedication to the growth of students and residents is evident in all she does.

Ava became involved with AAEM/RSA early in her medical training and has continued to invest in the organization in meaningful ways. She has contributed to the Introduction to Critical Care in Emergency Medicine course, teaching foundational concepts with clarity and enthusiasm. Her involvement in the Emergency Medicine Advocacy Education Summit showcases her broader commitment to policy, education, and strengthening the future of our field. Through these roles, Ava has demonstrated a clear understanding of the needs of trainees and a genuine interest in helping others navigate their path in Emergency Medicine.

AAEM/RSA has played an important role in Ava’s development, and she is eager to give back to the community that has supported her. She is committed to expanding accessible educational opportunities, enhancing resident engagement, and upholding the mission of the organization. Ava’s strong work ethic, thoughtful perspective, and approachable leadership style make her exceptionally well-suited for this role. It is an honor to nominate Ava Omidvar. She will be an outstanding Secretary-Treasurer who will contribute meaningfully to AAEM/RSA and to the advancement of trainee education and advocacy.

Candidate Statement

As a member of the AAEM/RSA from my second year of medical school, I have been given boundless opportunities to be mentored by incredible doctors in Emergency Medicine. I have been a part of meaningful projects such as teaching the Introduction to Critical Care in Emergency Medicine and advocating through the AAEM/RSA Medical Student Council and Emergency Medicine Advocacy Education Summit. I could not have imagined all the AAEM/RSA provided as a member in my training.

Now, this is my time to give back to the AAEM/RSA who has given me so much. I want to advocate for my fellow peers and the next generation of Emergency Medicine students and residents. I want to help provide educational opportunities for those seeking to increase their knowledge base and skillset. 

If elected as Secretary-Treasurer, I will strive to support educational opportunities, increase resident inclusion, and defend the values of AAEM/RSA. I am eager to serve as a representative and advocate for medical students and residents, ensuring their futures are bright and improving the field for the next generation. It would be an honor to dedicate myself to the role and support the powerful efforts to strengthen our specialty and improve tomorrow for the next generation of emergency physicians.

Candidates for At-Large Board Member

Margaret Beyer

Margaret Beyer

Candidate for At-Large Board Member

Residency Program: TBD – Incoming PGY-1

Nominated/Endorsed by: Self-nomination

Candidate Statement

My name is Margaret Beyer, and I am honored to run for Member at Large on the AAEM/RSA Board of Directors. My journey with AAEM began as a Medical Student Ambassador at the 2024 Scientific Assembly and has continued through my current service on the Cabinet of Delegates for Central Michigan University College of Medicine. These experiences have shaped my commitment to physician led, patient centered emergency medicine, and they have reinforced my belief in the importance of strong, transparent advocacy for trainees. As a medical student pursuing a career in emergency medicine, I have seen firsthand how rapidly our specialty is evolving and how essential it is for residents and students to have a voice in that evolution. Through my work on national initiatives, multidisciplinary research projects, and inter-professional collaborations, I have developed skills in communication, organization, and consensus building that I hope to bring to the Board. I am passionate about championing high quality training environments, wellness initiatives that are practical and achievable, and policies that protect the integrity of our specialty. If elected, I will work to amplify the perspectives of students and residents across the country. I aim to expand opportunities for involvement within AAEM/RSA, strengthen connections between local chapters and national leadership, and promote accessible pathways for research and professional development. I believe that fostering a supportive, collaborative community is the key to developing the next generation of resilient, patient-focused emergency physicians. AAEM has been foundational in my growth as a future physician. Serving on the Board would allow me to give back to the organization that has shaped my professional identity and to help ensure that every trainee feels represented, supported, and empowered. I would be grateful for your support and the opportunity to continue serving our community as I transition from medical student to resident physician.

Emily Burkes, MD

Emily Burkes, MD

Candidate for At-Large Board Member

Residency Program: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS)

Nominated/Endorsed by: Yusuke Kishimoto, MD, RSA At-Large Board Member

Nomination Statement

I am writing to offer my support for Dr. Emily Burkes, a second-year EM resident at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, for her nomination for AAEM/RSA At-Large Board Member.

Emily has demonstrated a strong commitment to resident well-being through her active involvement in resident wellness initiatives, advocating for more supportive, sustainable training environment since beginning her residency journey. Emily has also played a vital role in recruitment initiatives this year, serving as a thoughtful and enthusiastic ambassador for our program. Emily has demonstrated rare combination of intellectual curiosity, emotional drive, and genuine compassion for her patients and colleagues. Most notably and beyond her impact locally, Emily has shown national leadership through becoming an author of drafting the proposal for the creation of the AAEM/RSA Toxicology Section. This initiative reflects her forward-thinking vision for strengthening education, collaboration, and advocacy among residents and students all while encouraging growth in her passions for herself and others. I believe that her initiative, professionalism, and passion for advancing emergency medicine make her an outstanding nominee and a rising leader in our field. It is my privilege to offer her my highest recommendation without reservation.

Candidate Statement

I am honored to submit my candidacy for the AAEM/RSA At-Large Board Member. As a PGY-2 emergency medicine resident at University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences,  I am excited about the future of emergency medicine and passionate about being involved in the opportunities ahead. I believe that AAEM/RSA plays a huge role in many aspects of residency wellness, connection, and the advancement of our specialty, and I would love the opportunity to contribute to the mission.

I am particularly passionate about both mentorship and leadership. In my current residency program I was co-founder of our official Wellness Committee, served as the emergency medicine representative on Residency Council, and have been highly involved with our Emergency Medicine Interest Group with particular emphasis on VSLO preparation and our mentor/mentee pairing.  Additionally, I have most recently started the process of forming a Toxicology Special Interest Group within AAEM.

I envision my role in AAEM/RSA as one that helps bring about even more unity, collaboration, and connection. I feel that there are so many opportunities for new growth, as well as expansion of projects and relationships that are already in place.  I look forward to the opportunity to serve and represent AAEM/RSA, be it as a leader if selected, or as a passionate and involved member. Thank you for considering my candidacy. 

Tai Donovan

Tai Donovan

Candidate for At-Large Board Member

Residency Program: TBD – Incoming PGY-1

Nominated/Endorsed by: Hanna Hussein, MD, RSA At-Large Director

Nomination Statement

I am honored to nominate Tai Donovan for the position of At Large Board Member for AAEM/RSA. Having worked closely with Tai as a fellow RSA representative for the Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) section, I have seen firsthand the dedication, perspective, and steady leadership she brings to every role. Tai’s journey within AAEM/RSA reflects the heart of this organization, embodying the spirit of this organization by showing up with purpose, creating space for others, and translating advocacy into meaningful action. From her start as a Medical Student Ambassador, Tai has demonstrated an authentic commitment to service. She entered without a built-in network, yet through her work ethic, humility, and drive, she quickly became someone that students and members look to for guidance and support.

Tai helped develop the medical student scholarship for underrepresented applicants and organized a mentorship program within the JEDI section. Throughout this work, Tai consistently centered equity, ensuring students from marginalized backgrounds felt seen and supported. Her lived experience as an international medical graduate and as a student from an underrepresented background informs her advocacy and strengthens her ability to identify real gaps and create tangible solutions. In her leadership roles, including Chair of the Cabinet of Delegates and JEDI-AAEM RSA Representative, Tai has shown that she leads not by seeking the spotlight but by building community, elevating others, and fostering spaces where every member feels they belong.

As she enters residency next year, I am confident Tai will continue to be a thoughtful and impactful leader within AAEM/RSA. Her commitment, insight, and unwavering dedication make her exceptionally well-suited to serve on the board. I strongly endorse Tai Donovan for At Large Board Member and believe she will help advance a more inclusive and representative future for emergency medicine.

Candidate Statement

My journey with AAEM/RSA has been long and deeply meaningful, shaping me into a leader who shows up, does the work, and advocates for those still finding their voice. When I joined as a Medical Student Ambassador, I had no network, only a genuine desire to contribute. What I found was a community that embraced me, saw potential in me, and gave me space to grow. That sense of belonging became purpose.

As an IMG from a historically underrepresented background, I’ve learned what it means to fight for space in rooms where your voice isn’t always welcomed. Over time, I realized my voice not only matters, it’s needed. That understanding has guided the way I lead. In my roles as Chair of the Cabinet of Delegates and RSA/JEDI Liaison, I’ve worked to turn advocacy into action by creating meaningful programming that strengthens our residents and students, programming I wish I had during the most challenging parts of my own medical journey.

I’m running for the board because I want to continue building on AAEM/RSA’s mission and help ensure our leadership truly reflects the diversity we champion, the communities we serve, and the voices that will shape the future of our specialty.

Tierra Ferguson

Tierra Ferguson

Candidate for At-Large Board Member

Residency Program: TBD – Incoming PGY-1

Nominated/Endorsed by: Self-nomination

Candidate Statement

I am submitting my nomination for the AAEM/RSA Board of Directors because I am committed to advancing the mission and core principles of AAEM, the protection of physician-led emergency care, the promotion of fair practice environments, and the support of evidence-based, patient-centered medicine. My connection to emergency medicine has been longstanding, beginning with my early experiences as a CNA, solidifying through my work as an Emergency Department clerk in a Level 1 trauma center, and also serving as a student ambassador for AAEM at AAEM25. These experiences shaped not only my understanding of frontline patient care, but also the systemic challenges faced by emergency physicians.

As I progress through my medical education, I have become increasingly passionate about advocacy, education, and the structural issues that influence both trainees and practicing clinicians. I hope to bring a fresh perspective to the Board by representing the voice of future physicians while supporting the broader goals of the academy

I believe AAEM’s principles are essential to maintaining high-quality emergency care, and I am eager to support the direction and mission of the board. It would be an honor to collaborate with leaders who share the same commitment to strengthening the future of emergency medicine.

Gabriela Hernandez, MD

Gabriela Hernandez, MD

Candidate for At-Large Board Member

Residency Program: Maimonides Medical Center

Nominated/Endorsed by: Self-nomination

Candidate Statement

Over the past year, serving as an At-Large Board Member for the RSA has been an incredibly meaningful and rewarding experience. This role has given me the opportunity to connect with residents across the country, listen to their concerns, and represent their interests within the broader AAEM community. I have thoroughly enjoyed being involved in this capacity, and it has strengthened my commitment to ensuring that resident voices remain visible, valued, and influential.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of the past year has been participating in the development and refinement of organizational bylaws. Contributing to this foundational work has allowed me to collaborate closely with dedicated colleagues and help shape processes that will guide the RSA for years to come. Through this experience, I have gained a deeper understanding of organizational structure, governance, and the importance of creating systems that reflect transparency, equity, and the needs of our membership.

I have also been honored to represent the RSA on various AAEM workgroups. Engaging with these diverse teams has provided insight into the challenges and opportunities facing emergency medicine at both the resident and organizational levels. Through each workgroup, I have been able to be the connection between the concerns of the separate sections and our RSA Board, helping ensure that resident perspectives remain integrated into broader organizational discussions and initiatives.

As I seek re-election to the At-Large position, I hope to continue building on the progress of the past year. I remain committed to strengthening resident advocacy, expanding opportunities for involvement, and fostering a collaborative environment where all members feel empowered to contribute. It would be a privilege to continue serving in this role and to further advance the mission of the RSA and AAEM.

Alex Jenkins, MD

Alex Jenkins, MD

Candidate for At-Large Board Member

Residency Program: University of Maryland School of Medicine

Nominated/Endorsed by: Hanna Hussein, MD, RSA At-Large Board Member

Nomination Statement

I am honored to nominate Alex for the position of At Large Board Member for AAEM RSA. Alex has demonstrated exceptional initiative, leadership, and dedication to the well-being of her peers throughout her time as a medical student, making her an ideal candidate for this role. As Chair of Student Life at her medical school, Alex led several impactful initiatives in wellness and professional development. She helped design a student gym that expanded access to fitness resources, developed curriculum on Exercise as Medicine, and coached students through structured movement programs. Her work emphasized preventive health, resilience, and creating supportive spaces where trainees could thrive both personally and academically.

In addition to her wellness efforts, Alex was deeply engaged in medical student education. She contributed to skills training, simulation teaching, and peer mentorship, helping students build confidence in core clinical abilities. Her commitment to creating an inclusive and encouraging learning environment set her apart as a dependable and trusted leader. Alex has a strong record of advocacy, innovation, and service that reflects the values of AAEM RSA. It is a privilege to nominate her for At Large Board Member, and I am confident she will bring thoughtful, meaningful contributions to the organization.

Candidate Statement

To see the change you want, you need to be a direct contributor. My favorite part of working in EM is teaching patients about their conditions so they can advocate for themselves. I value being a voice for those who may not be heard, and I hope to use my advocacy training as a combined EM/Pediatrics resident to be a voice nationally. As a former D1 soccer captain and assistant coach, I developed leadership skills to direct a team to a common goal. I also draw on my experience as Student Council Chair of Student Life to promote trainee wellness and professional development. In residency, I have been active in recruitment, teaching and building DEI curriculum. I was honored with my residency’s 2024 AEIOU award for embodying “Attitude, Education, Involvement, Outside Interests and Unity”, and if elected, I plan to continue encouraging these values in the AAEM/RSA community.

Chris Laugier, DO

Chris Laugier, DO

Candidate for At-Large Board Member

Residency Program: Advocate Christ Medical Center

Nominated/Endorsed by: Mary Unanyan, DO, RSA Immediate Past President

Nomination Statement

I am proud to nominate Chris for the AAEM Board. Chris is one of the most proactive, dedicated, and genuinely caring people I’ve worked with. He consistently goes the extra mile, shows up for others, and invests fully in every project and person he engages with. His thoughtfulness, integrity, and strong work ethic make him an exceptional leader and a colleague who lifts everyone around him. Chris would be a tremendous asset to the AAEM Board, and I wholeheartedly support his nomination.

Candidate Statement

I recall sitting in a town hall at a recent Scientific Assembly, watching one of the AAEM leaders pour their heart out about a life and career struggle they had endured. There were tears, vulnerability, and a powerful message about the support he received from AAEM and AAEM/RSA and how his colleagues rallied behind him when he needed them most. Seeing him lead with such honesty and trust in his team showed me exactly what real leadership looks like.

I feel deeply honored to be part of this incredible field. I remind myself of that on every brutal shift, on tired drives home, and especially on the days I feel humbled or inadequate. I am here because of my mentors, those who poured their joy, honesty, and expertise into me, and those who gave it to me straight. Paying that back is important to me.  My years with AAEM/RSA have shown me that mentorship, advocacy, and camaraderie in emergency medicine exist on a different level. This community truly fights for its own. I’ve had the pleasure of working with RSA in several capacities’ on multiple projects with the Cabinet of Delegates and for two years on the Medical Student Council. Through every experience, I’ve seen the incredible impact that passionate people can have when they rally behind the next generation of EM physicians.

As a board member, I’ll bring fresh energy, enthusiasm, and respect. I want to amplify the voices of my peers, build excitement for emergency medicine and for RSA, and encourage trainees to explore everything EM offers, from critical care to global health and beyond. This specialty changes lives, and I’m ready to advocate for the people who will carry it into the future. I’ll leave you with the commitment I’ve written in every personal statement since college: In good times and bad, I will always lift others up.

Jake Moore

Jake Moore

Candidate for At-Large Board Member

Residency Program: TBD – Incoming PGY-1

Nominated/Endorsed by: Self-nomination

Candidate Statement

My interest in serving as an At-Large Director on the AAEM/RSA Board of Directors is rooted in RSA’s mission and values. Since early in medical school I have sought deeper involvement in this organization because of its advocacy for emergency medicine trainees, for the evolving needs of the field of emergency medicine, and for the patients we serve.

I have now served for two years on the AAEM/RSA Medical Student Council, first as Regional Representative for the South and now as Chair, and in that time I have aimed to push the envelope on new projects to increase our membership value with a focus on our medical students, such as our upcoming procedure manual for upcoming sub-Is and interns. I have also helped the other Medical Student Council members conceptualize and plan their Regional Student Symposia. In my work on the AAEM/RSA Board of Directors as the Student Representative, I have gained valuable insights into the function of the Board and weighed in with the student point-of-view on emerging changes and projects within the organization. I have also advocated nationally to U.S. Representatives and Senate staffers for our organization’s key policy issues at AAEM on the Hill. If elected as an At-Large Director, I will leverage these experiences to push efforts to expand this organization’s reach and help RSA better serve our members, our specialty, and our patients.

Tatenda Mupepi, MPA

Tatenda Mupepi, MPA

Candidate for At-Large Board Member

Residency Program: TBD – Incoming PGY-1

Nominated/Endorsed by: Self-nomination

Candidate Statement

I am honored to submit my candidacy for the AAEM/RSA Board of Directors as an At-Large Member. AAEM/RSA has been foundational in shaping my growth as a future emergency physician, providing mentorship, leadership exposure, educational development, and a community grounded in advocacy, integrity, collaboration, and patient-centered values. Through this organization, I found guidance when I needed direction, representation when I needed a voice, and a network that invests in trainees with purpose and intentionality. I am running not only with ambition, but with deep gratitude and a desire to advance the same support AAEM/RSA has given me by helping elevate trainees nationwide.

Serving as Vice Chair of the AAEM/RSA Cabinet of Delegates and President of the EMIG at Saint James School of Medicine has strengthened my skills in trainee engagement, educational program development, and connecting students and residents with national EM opportunities. Through my work with SAEM’s Academy for Diversity and Inclusion in Emergency Medicine and the Pediatric Interest Group, I have contributed to educational initiatives, research, and equity-focused conversations surrounding migrant and pediatric emergency care. These experiences have shown me the power of mentorship, representation, and community, and why building these pathways is vital for our specialty’s future.

If elected, I aim to support AAEM/RSA membership growth, increase the visibility of trainee benefits, and serve as a reliable liaison to Presidential initiatives. I am committed to expanding mentorship, leadership development, and research engagement; strengthening residency collaboration; and promoting trainee wellness, clinical excellence, and professional sustainability. Guided by courage, inclusion, integrity, and collaboration, I will advocate for environments where trainees feel supported, valued, and empowered to lead.

It would be a privilege to continue growing within this organization and help strengthen its reach and impact. Thank you for your consideration and the opportunity to serve AAEM/RSA and future emergency physicians.

Tosin Oladunjoye, MD

Tosin Oladunjoye, MD

Candidate for At-Large Board Member

Residency Program: University of South Alabama

Nominated/Endorsed by: Self-nomination

Candidate Statement

I would like to nominate myself for the AAEM Board Member position because this would be a great opportunity for me to serve the emergency medicine community as a resident physician while continuing to grow as a leader. I have a strong background in recruitment from organizing events and leading clubs throughout medical school, and I hope to use that experience to support membership growth and member engagement within AAEM. I am committed to contributing to ongoing initiatives and working groups, providing dependable support and collaboration wherever it is most needed. I will also actively participate in project meetings and team sessions. I am passionate about advancing emergency medicine and confident that I will make a meaningful and positive contribution to AAEM in this role.

Linda Onyirimba

Linda Onyirimba

Candidate for At-Large Board Member

Residency Program: TBD – Incoming PGY-1

Nominated/Endorsed by: Self-nomination

Candidate Statement

My journey to emergency medicine has been shaped by decisive leadership, service, and a commitment to elevating the voices of trainees. I am seeking a position as the AAEM/RSA At-Large board member because I believe my unique blend of clinical experience, academic achievement, and advocacy positions me to contribute meaningfully and to lead with purpose.

My five years as a NICU nurse formed the foundation of my leadership identity. In that high-acuity environment, I became a trusted resource for my team, often coordinating care during crises, orienting new nurses, and ensuring seamless communication with physicians. These responsibilities taught me how to lead under pressure, resolve conflict, and inspire confidence; skills essential for shaping organizational priorities and championing trainee needs within AAEM/RSA.

Academically, I have consistently demonstrated the discipline and initiative required of an effective board member. Graduating in the top five percent of my class, earning summa cum laude honors, and completing a master’s degree in medical science reflect not only perseverance but the ability to set ambitious goals and deliver results. As an active AAEM member, I learned how to navigate complex systems with resilience and resourcefulness, gaining insight into the diverse challenges faced by our membership.

Beyond my clinical and academic roles, I have actively sought opportunities to mentor and support others, whether guiding fellow students through the match, connecting with leaders within EM, or collaborating to expand opportunities for trainees. These experiences have strengthened my ability to build networks, advocate effectively, and bring people together to create meaningful change.

As an AAEM/RSA Board member, I will lead with integrity, reliability, and a forward-looking vision. I am committed to advancing initiatives that protect trainee interests, strengthen physician-led emergency care, and ensure that every member feels heard and represented. It would be an honor to serve and help shape the future of our specialty.

Dina Shakran, DO

Dina Shakran, DO

Candidate for At-Large Board Member

Residency Program: Kern Medical Center

Nominated/Endorsed by: Self-nomination

Candidate Statement

It is with great enthusiasm that I submit my self-nomination to serve on the Board of Directors of the American Academy of Emergency Medicine (AAEM). As a second-year Emergency Medicine resident training at a busy county hospital, I have developed a deep appreciation for the challenges and rewards of practicing medicine in resource-limited, high-acuity environments that truly represent the front lines of our healthcare system.

Working in a county setting has exposed me to the complex realities faced by emergency physicians; from overcrowded departments and boarding crises to the increasing administrative and corporate pressures that threaten our ability to deliver timely, patient-centered care. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to the mission of AAEM: to protect the integrity of our specialty, support physician autonomy, and advocate for equitable and sustainable emergency care systems.

As a resident, I have been actively engaged in education, advocacy, and mentorship, striving to create a culture that values both clinical excellence and physician well-being. I believe AAEM plays a critical role in empowering young physicians to become leaders who stand for transparency, fairness, and the independent practice of emergency medicine.

If elected to the Board, I will bring the perspective of a trainee on the front lines, one who understands the evolving challenges that residents and early-career physicians face. I am committed to amplifying resident voices, strengthening mentorship opportunities, and ensuring that AAEM continues to serve as a steadfast advocate for the future of our specialty.

It would be an honor to represent my peers and contribute to the continued growth and mission of AAEM as a member of its Board of Directors.

Kadie Stephens, MD

Kadie Stephens, MD

Candidate for At-Large Board Member

Residency Program: University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria

Nominated/Endorsed by: Self-nomination

Candidate Statement

I am honored to apply for the position of Member-at-Large on the AAEM/RSA Board of Directors. My work across AAEM/RSA committees and initiatives has strengthened my commitment to supporting residents and students pursuing emergency medicine, promoting physician-led emergency care, and advancing the mission of our organization.

Through the AAEM/RSA Advocacy Committee, I helped develop the three-part Scope of Practice Webinar Series to educate medical students on the impact of NPP scope expansion and equip them with effective advocacy tools. For the Women in EM (WiEM) section, I created the WiEM Online Apparel Store to support increased fundraising for the section. As a part of the WiEM Leadership Pipeline, I led the Virtual Mentorship Series, organized the AAEM23 WiEM luncheon raffle, and supported leadership development for medical students. I also led the IMG Webinar Series, offering guidance and community for international medical graduates.

As Vice-Chair of the AAEM/RSA Membership Committee, I organized RSA Awards and membership efforts and helped develop the Road to Match Mentorship Program for fourth-year students’ expanding equitable access to mentors during a critical stage of training.

If elected, I will serve as an engaged board liaison, promote membership growth through meaningful outreach and programming, and actively participate in all assigned meetings and initiatives. I am dedicated to fostering community, enhancing member value, and advocating for the future of Emergency Medicine. Thank you for your consideration.

VOTE NOW

Questions? Reach out to Ashley Allgood, AAEM/RSA Senior Administrative Manager through email or call (800) 884-2236.