Read feature stories about students, staff and faculty from across the WWAMI region.
(*Draft for Montana WWAMI newsletter – under review*) Faculty from across Montana gathered in Bozeman earlier this month for a dynamic Montana WWAMI Faculty Retreat, an energizing day focused on strengthening curriculum, enhancing student support, and expanding rural-training partnerships. The retreat opened with an insightful presentation from Dr. Laura Goodell, Stern Regional Faculty Educator and […]
On National Rural Health Day, we proudly celebrated Dr. Susan Gallo, a full-scope family medicine physician at Billings Clinic Miles City and a longtime Montana WWAMI preceptor. Dr. Gallo’s dedication strengthens rural care across the state while shaping the next generation of physicians. Dr. Gallo practices everything family medicine has to offer: OB, C-sections, pediatrics, […]
During the poster session (on November 10, 2025), the Alaska WWAMI community paused to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Jan Eugene Whitefield, who passed away on August 23, 2025, at the age of 80 due to complications from Parkinson’s disease. Known as “Bud” to his family and friends and “Dr. Whitefield” to generations […]
(*Holding article for December AK WWAMI newsletter*) Alaska WWAMI recently participated in the Alaska Interior Medical Education Summit (AIMES) in Fairbanks, an event for students exploring both traditional and non-traditional pathways into healthcare and medicine. Attendees ranged from high school students to adults considering a career change, creating an engaging environment full of questions about […]
After celebrating the remarkable work showcased at this year’s poster presentation (Nov. 10, 2025), the Alaska WWAMI E24 class recognized someone whose guidance helped make those accomplishments possible. Dr. Elizabeth Ferucci, Affiliate Professor in the Division of Rheumatology and physician with the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium, was presented with the Outstanding Research Mentor Award. […]
Alaska WWAMI faculty members who have made an extraordinary impact on medical education were also honored during the poster presentation in Anchorage on November 10, 2025. Teaching awards across both the Foundations and Clinical Phases recognized instructors whose dedication, expertise, and mentorship elevate the student experience. Foundations Phase Teaching Awards Dr. Anne Musser, DO — […]
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 first-year Seattle medical student Nick Talley, the path to medicine began long before he ever opened a textbook. Talley spent 20 years on active duty in the US Army, serving as a Special Forces Medical Sergeant—better known as a Green Beret—from October 2002 to October 2022. Stationed with the 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne) […]
Middle of Nowhere Montana By: Courtney Hallock When I first found out I’d be placed in Glasgow, MT I can’t lie – my stomach dropped I tried to maintain a positive outlook “It’ll be fine” “It’s just a short time” In the middle of nowhere MT Next was my “first summer experience” I was […]
This November, Alaska WWAMI is honoring our veterans and the incredible commitment they make to our nation. Among them is Caleb Wagle, a second-year Alaska WWAMI medical student and a Second Lieutenant in the United States Air Force, whose journey blends military service with a dedication to compassionate patient care. Wagle was commissioned in February […]
