Amber Richardson
Duke University

Amber Richardson is an organized, motivated connector with much to offer ASPBP as Secretary. For the past three years, Amber has remained actively involved in ASPBP, first as a general member and presenter, then as chair of the Southern region, and now as vice chair of both the Southern region and the External Advocacy and Communications committee. In each position she holds, Amber works to ensure that all community members can easily access the resources needed to participate fully in shaping their organization toward its highest potential good. As Secretary, Amber will bring to ASPBP the same signature approach that she employs as co-director of The Center for Pathway Programs at Duke, making sure that stakeholders are kept informed and engaged. Amber looks forward to deepening her commitment to ASPBP and serving the Executive Council, General Council, committees, and Executive Council in this new way.

Michelle Demory
Nova Southeastern University

As an inaugural member of ASPBP and a dedicated contributor to both the Finance and Conference Committees, I am deeply committed to the organization’s mission and sustainability. My two-year tenure on the Finance Committee has given me insight into ASPBP’s fiscal needs and long-term strategic goals. This experience, combined with my previous leadership as Director of my College's pathway program and now as Assistant Dean of Pre-Clerkship Curriculum, has equipped me with the administrative, organizational, and budgetary expertise essential for the treasurer role.

Emil Chuck
Health Professional Student Association (HPSA)

Emil Chuck is Director of Advising Services for the Health Professional Student Association and is co-editor/featured contributor for the Student Doctor Network article/blog section. While not listed in his main job description, he brings over 20 years of experience organizing in-person and virtual events. He has served on the 2025 conference committee for the Western Association for Advisors of the Health Professions (organizing its poster session) and with the ASPBP Membership and Conference Committees. As an Advisor for the non-profit organization MinorityPostdoc.org for over a decade, he has assisted in grant-writing for proposed pipeline programs directed at community college students from low-income areas of Orange County (California). As Director of Admissions and Recruitment at Rosalind Franklin University, he organized their first Zoom virtual recruitment sessions (500+ attendees) and coordinated virtual interview days for all 20+ graduate programs during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown years. He has also been involved with the Summer Health Professions Education Program in his role as Director of Admissions at the School of Dental Medicine at Case Western Reserve University, and he secured funding for a two-year pilot pipeline program to support mentoring for high school juniors/seniors and research experience for college juniors/seniors (Jefferson Jones Predental Mentoring Program). As Health Professions Advisor at George Mason University, he organized general prehealth community meetings for over 200 students (as a staff of one) and scheduled in-person and virtual recruitment visits. As interim director of undergraduate research, he has mentored GMU undergraduates and faculty to promote scholarship as a core value. As Diversity Co-Chair for the National Postdoctoral Association, he collaborated in drafting the NPA Core Competencies (focusing on professionalism). Finally, while completing his doctorate, he planned research symposia highlighting graduate and postdoctoral research, and he organized dozens of regional, state, and national high school academic competitions (300 people for up to three days per event).
He has volunteered for several years to review abstract conference presentations for the National Association for Advisors of the Health Professions (and regionals), ASPBP, and the Academy for Professionalism in Healthcare (serving on its Programming and Education Committee). This year, he helped the ASPBP Membership Committee envision the Poolside and Fireside Chat virtual programs and recruited potential speakers. He is working on an ASPBP/NBME-funded project to develop an online "contemporary and future topics" course for aspiring prehealth professionals (and their advisors) and is developing a survey to assess the overall impact of pipeline programs on admissions success (preliminary report forthcoming).

Dana Peterson
Conference Vice-Chair
Drexel University College of Medicine

Professor Dana Peterson serves as the Director of Anatomical Sciences at Drexel University College of Medicine – West Reading Campus. She is one of the co-founders of the Anato-Bee competition and health advocacy initiative for high school students nationwide. In the past two years more than 1,300 students have participated in this programming. At her previous institution she designed and implemented a master’s degree program that became a pathway program for the medical school. In 2023, U.S. News and World Report ranked NEOMED #41 for Most Diverse Medical Schools, an improvement from #85 in 2022.

She has served on the annual conference planning committee for two years and is currently the committee Vice Chair. Additional responsibilities on the planning committee have included reviewing abstract submissions for the last two years and directing the recruitment efforts for conference institutional and organizational sponsors.

Vicky Rhine
Current Western Region Representative
Denver Health Hospital

Vicky Rhine is the current Western Region Representative and is seeking re-election for this role in 2026. Since 2022, Vicky has been involved in ASPBP, with roles including conference presenter/moderator, conference committee member, conference chair, Western region rep, and membership and member programming vice-chair (informal). Vicky is very passionate about supporting the organization and helping it grow in the future. She has nearly a decade of experience in pathway programming leadership and future talent development. From high school to medical school students, her programs have educated more than 350 students on the healthcare field, career pathways, and leadership development. She seeks to continue her involvement in ASPBP to share her expertise with others in the field and support the programming and services of ASPBP that allows members to thrive in their careers.

Carolina Restini
Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Since 2019, Dr. Restini has developed projects that empower medical students through hands-on experiences in healthcare education, clinical and non-clinical community service, and collaborative partnerships. These efforts have culminated in a structured program designed to enrich medical training by integrating academic excellence with meaningful community impact.
Dr. Restini’s projects foster engagement among students, clinicians, basic science faculty, and staff by championing innovative, community-centered projects to equip students to serve as educators and leaders, strengthen institutional connections with local and regional communities, and promote interdisciplinary collaboration within and beyond the university. By systematically evaluating the outcomes of these initiatives, Dr. Restini’s endeavors translate data into impactful research, contributing to advancements in medicine and public health.

James "Chase" Ragland
University of Texas Tyler School of Medicine

I believe ASPBP would benefit from my leadership as a Regional Representative through my understanding of collaboration, pathway and bridge program development, and sustained community engagement. As Director of Pathway Programs and Recruitment at The University of Texas at Tyler’s School of Medicine, I work across a vast region to build partnerships with K-12 schools, community colleges, four-year institutions, and community organizations. I have firsthand experience navigating the unique challenges and opportunities our region presents, from rural access to professional school readiness.

I have a strong foundation in convening stakeholders, facilitating meaningful dialogue, and translating insights into action. I would leverage this experience to lead consistent and purposeful regional meetings that foster connection, resource-sharing, and innovative practice. By uplifting voices from across the region, I would ensure that regional priorities are clearly communicated to the General Council and that our region is actively shaping the future direction of ASPBP.

With a commitment to accessibility, transparency, and collaboration, I would work to strengthen the sense of community among members, create opportunities for peer learning, and identify ways ASPBP can better serve its regional membership. My goal would be to ensure that all members in the region feel informed, supported, and empowered to contribute.

Nishika Edwards
Current Southern Region Representative
University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville

I have thoroughly enjoyed serving as the Southern Regional Representative for ASPBP and am proud of the meaningful connections and initiatives that have taken root during this time. I believe there is still more to accomplish, particularly as we prepare for the inaugural Southern Regional Conference. I am eager to continue building momentum and fostering engagement across our region.

Bryan Beaver
University of Texas Tyler School of Medicine

I would like to support the growth of ASPBP and lend my expertise as an educator.

Matthew Blank
Baylor College of Medicine

I currently serve as Assistant Director and Assistant Professor in the Center for Educational Outreach at Baylor College of Medicine. In this role, I collaborate with K–16 educators, administrators, and district leaders, particularly in Houston, Central, and South Texas—to design and expand STEM+M (science, technology, engineering, math, and medicine) pathway programs. My work focuses on supporting all learners in exploring biomedical and health science careers and helping them see and experience themselves in these fields.

Prior to joining Baylor, I served as Principal Investigator on three National Science Foundation–funded projects aimed at strengthening undergraduate STEMM education and increasing student engagement in science. These experiences continue to shape how I approach program development and educator partnerships. I also contribute to national conversations around STEM education through service on working committees with the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) and the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).

Jenna Hagerty
Thomas Jefferson University Sidney Kimmel Medical College

This nominee would bring a visionary, action-driven approach to advancing equity and inclusion within ASPBP. Their leadership in founding the Anato-Bee, a no-cost national competition in anatomical sciences, directly addresses the leaky pipeline in STEMM by engaging and empowering underrepresented students. The program not only removes financial barriers but also builds community through initiatives like the Anato-Bee Inclusivity Travel Sponsorship (ABITS), which provided support to students from marginalized and low-income backgrounds—100% of whom met criteria for underrepresentation in STEMM in 2024.

Their work demonstrates a deep commitment to evidence-based interventions. Two large-scale research grants under review (Spencer Foundation and NBME/ASPBP) aim to study how identity, motivation, and hope influence long-term retention in STEMM fields. These efforts are rooted in both educational research and practical outreach, with a goal of improving student persistence across diverse populations.

In addition, their broader scholarly agenda—such as a scoping review on retention and a critical analysis of body donor policies—reflects a clear understanding of the systemic and subtle ways inequity shapes education and healthcare training.
With ongoing collaborations across institutions, current service on the SKMC DEI committee, and upcoming national presentations, this nominee is already an influential voice in shaping inclusive STEMM education. ASPBP would benefit immensely from their forward-thinking leadership, strong research background, and demonstrated success in translating DEI values into impactful programming.

Margeret Maimone
SUNY Upstate Medical University

I have served on the JEDI Committee as a volunteer member since it's inception, and have been serving in the role of Vice Chair for the past year or so. I am well-versed in the role this Committee plays within the ASPBP organization and would be comfortable leading meetings when the Chair is not able to attend. Although I am not a member of an underserved population, I am passionate about promoting JEDI principles, which is the reason I joined this committee. I have played a central role in our Medical School's post-bac program since its inception 20 years ago, and I still love my work in that program because of the success stories I see play out every year.

I am deeply committed to identifying and uplifting leaders who reflect the diversity, passion, and purpose at the heart of ASPBP’s mission. As Director of Interprofessional Education at PCOM South Georgia and a long-standing advocate for pathway and bridge programs, I’ve spent my career mentoring students, cultivating inclusive teams, and designing programs that center access, equity, and sustainability.

Serving on the Nominating Committee would allow me to contribute to ASPBP in a meaningful and strategic way. I bring an eye for recognizing leadership potential beyond titles—focusing instead on authenticity, impact, and alignment with our shared goals. My work with the Opportunities Academy, national presentations, faculty development, and DEI initiatives has positioned me to engage with a wide network of professionals across disciplines and backgrounds.

I believe the strength of ASPBP lies in its people, and I would approach the nominating process with intentionality, transparency, and a commitment to ensuring our leadership reflects the communities we serve. I’m excited by the opportunity to help shape a leadership pipeline that is bold, visionary, and rooted in service.

With a collaborative spirit and deep respect for the work ASPBP advances, I would be honored to serve on the Nominating Committee and contribute to the organization’s continued growth and excellence.

Rohini Ganjoo
George Washington University

Jonathan Wisco
Treasurer
Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine

Amber Heck
University of North Texas Health Science Center

Nishika Edwards
Current Southern Region Representative
University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville

I believe I can bring strong, equity-driven leadership to the role of Annual Conference Vice-Chair for ASPBP. With over a decade of experience designing and coordinating student development initiatives, particularly through NIH R25 and other STEMM pathway programs, I’ve consistently led efforts that merge strategic planning with inclusive programming to support historically underrepresented students.

Vanessa Fleites
Emory School of Medicine

Jonathan Wisco
Treasurer
Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine

Jickssa Gemechu
Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine

Vicky Rhine
Current Western Region Representative
Denver Health

Vicky Rhine is the current Western Region Representative and Member and Member Programming Vice Chair (informal non-elected role). Vicky is seeking official election for the Member and Member Programming Vice Chair role in 2026. Since 2022, Vicky has been involved in ASPBP, with roles including conference presenter/moderator, conference committee member, conference chair, Western region rep, and membership and member programming vice-chair. Vicky is very passionate about supporting the organization and helping it grow in the future. She has nearly a decade of experience in pathway programming leadership and future talent development. From high school to medical school students, her programs have educated more than 350 students on the healthcare field, career pathways, and leadership development. She seeks to continue her involvement in ASPBP to share her expertise with others in the field and support the programming and services of ASPBP that allows members to thrive in their careers.

Emil Chuck
Health Professional Student Association (HPSA)

Emil Chuck is Director of Advising Services for the Health Professional Student Association and is co-editor/featured contributor for the Student Doctor Network article/blog section. While not listed in his main job description, he brings over 20 years of experience organizing in-person and virtual events. He has served on the 2025 conference committee for the Western Association for Advisors of the Health Professions (organizing its poster session) and with the ASPBP Membership and Conference Committees. As an Advisor for the non-profit organization MinorityPostdoc.org for over a decade, he has assisted in grant-writing for proposed pipeline programs directed at community college students from low-income areas of Orange County (California). As Director of Admissions and Recruitment at Rosalind Franklin University, he organized their first Zoom virtual recruitment sessions (500+ attendees) and coordinated virtual interview days for all 20+ graduate programs during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown years. He has also been involved with the Summer Health Professions Education Program in his role as Director of Admissions at the School of Dental Medicine at Case Western Reserve University, and he secured funding for a two-year pilot pipeline program to support mentoring for high school juniors/seniors and research experience for college juniors/seniors (Jefferson Jones Predental Mentoring Program). As Health Professions Advisor at George Mason University, he organized general prehealth community meetings for over 200 students (as a staff of one) and scheduled in-person and virtual recruitment visits. As interim director of undergraduate research, he has mentored GMU undergraduates and faculty to promote scholarship as a core value. As Diversity Co-Chair for the National Postdoctoral Association, he collaborated in drafting the NPA Core Competencies (focusing on professionalism). Finally, while completing his doctorate, he planned research symposia highlighting graduate and postdoctoral research, and he organized dozens of regional, state, and national high school academic competitions (300 people for up to three days per event).
He has volunteered for several years to review abstract conference presentations for the National Association for Advisors of the Health Professions (and regionals), ASPBP, and the Academy for Professionalism in Healthcare (serving on its Programming and Education Committee). This year, he helped the ASPBP Membership Committee envision the Poolside and Fireside Chat virtual programs and recruited potential speakers. He is working on an ASPBP/NBME-funded project to develop an online "contemporary and future topics" course for aspiring prehealth professionals (and their advisors) and is developing a survey to assess the overall impact of pipeline programs on admissions success (preliminary report forthcoming).

Sarah McCallum
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine

I am Associate Professor of Neuroscience at Albany Medical College and transitioned from basic science to medical education and admissions in 2018. Recently (2021-2025) I have served as the MESRE (Medical Education Scholarship, Research and Evaluation) Rep for the Northeast Group on Educational Affairs for the AAMC. During my tenure in the NEGEA and MESRE, I hosted workshops, fostered collaborations, planned conferences and managed an educational grants program. One of the most rewarding aspects of this role was learning from the diverse perspectives and innovative practices of my regional and national colleagues in med-Ed and bringing those insights back to enrich educational efforts at my own institution.

Leila Amiri
Robert Larner MD Com at University of Vermont

Dr. Amiri received her PhD in Curriculum and Instruction from Northcentral University. She is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and the Associate Dean for Admission at the Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont. Dr. Amiri has been influential in developing holistic review processes and was called to serve on several national committees including the AAMC Advancing Holistic Review in Alignment Working group. As an inaugural member of the ASPBP research committee she has been instrumental to its success. Moreover, for the past year she has taken on vice chair duties and the committee strongly endorses her candidacy to ensure the continued success of the ASPBP research mission.

Carolina Restini
Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Since 2019, Dr. Restini has developed projects that empower medical students through hands-on experiences in healthcare education, clinical and non-clinical community service, and collaborative partnerships. These efforts have culminated in a structured program designed to enrich medical training by integrating academic excellence with meaningful community impact.
Dr. Restini’s projects foster engagement among students, clinicians, basic science faculty, and staff by championing innovative, community-centered projects to equip students to serve as educators and leaders, strengthen institutional connections with local and regional communities, and promote interdisciplinary collaboration within and beyond the university. By systematically evaluating the outcomes of these initiatives, Dr. Restini’s endeavors translate data into impactful research, contributing to advancements in medicine and public health.