Each year, UAFP recognizes an outstanding graduating medical student from Rocky Vista College of Osteopathic Medicine — Southern Utah and the University of Utah School of Medicine who have matched into family medicine. At the University of Utah, the F. Marian Bishop Award was awarded to Harper Christensen, who will start her residency with Utah Valley Family Medicine Residency in Orem, Utah, later this summer.

The Outstanding Senior Award at RVUSU was given to Evan Starr, who has matched into Family Medicine at Mayo Clinic Family Medicine Residency in Rochester, Minnesota. Both of these outstanding future family medicine physicians have shown evidence of active student leadership in family medicine activities and demonstrated evidence of superior scholastic achievement in their medical school studies, particularly in the field of family medicine.

UAFP established a Resident Leadership Award in 2021 to recognize the accomplishments of one of our third-year family medicine residents in Utah. Nominations are sent in by residency faculty, peers and other residency staff. Those nominated needed to demonstrate promotion of family medicine, leadership skills and serving as a role model to peers. Additional consideration was given for teaching skills, professionalism, research skills and community service. The UAFP Member Engagement Committee voted on the final winner and chose Erica Veazey from St. Mark’s Family Medicine Residency.

The nomination submitted for Dr. Veazey says, “Erica consistently goes above and beyond her duties, willingly taking on additional responsibilities to support her colleagues and improve patient care. Far beyond her role as chief of resident faculty relations, she organized resident wellness events and group brainstorming sessions to highlight residency strengths and address weaknesses. Her proactive approach reflects not only her strong work ethic but also her genuine concern for the well-being of both patients and fellow healthcare professionals. In addition to her leadership and clinical acumen, Erica possesses exceptional interpersonal skills and a natural ability to inspire those around her. Her positive attitude, collaborative spirit and dedication to continuous improvement make her a valuable asset to our residency program and the broader healthcare community.”

Congratulations to all of you on your many accomplishments!