Alaska WWAMI second-year medical students impressed faculty, peers, and community members earlier this month (November 10, 2025) as they shared their research at the annual (Triple I) poster presentation in Anchorage. Twenty-six students showcased work that blends classroom science with real-world medical practice, demonstrating how hands-on inquiry strengthens clinical reasoning, sparks creativity, and builds confidence for future patient care.
The posters covered a wide range of medical and community health topics, including new ideas in patient safety, innovative approaches to supporting Alaska communities, and emerging scientific concepts. The variety reflected both the students’ curiosity and their commitment to tackling issues that matter to patients across the state.
Several students were recognized with awards for outstanding presentations:
- Alyssa Mandich – Alaska WWAMI Excellence in Global Health Immersion Award
- Laura Aspelund – Alaska WWAMI Excellence in Scholarship of Discovery Award
- Abigail Crawford – Rural Underserved Opportunity Program Hybrid Research Award
- Mariah Johnson – Rural Underserved Opportunity Program Hybrid Research Award
- Mick Edwards – Rural Underserved Opportunity Program Community Medicine Award
- Nikola Nikolic – Alaska WWAMI Student Choice Award
- Reed Thomas – Alaska WWAMI Student Choice Award
Alaska WWAMI’s Assistant Foundations Dean, Dr. Nick Phelps, joined University of Alaska Anchorage College of Health faculty in congratulating the students. Events like this highlight the essential role of research in shaping future physicians, especially those preparing to care for communities across Alaska.
