Dear UAFP family, 

As I step into my role as president of the Utah Academy of Family Physicians (UAFP), I’m excited to help strengthen our community — from premedical students to seasoned physicians. My vision? To foster engagement and create a true sense of belonging across every level, whether you’re just dreaming about medical school or have been practicing for decades. After all, family medicine is just that — family. 

My own path to family medicine was, well, a bit like a treasure hunt, with plenty of twists, turns, and the occasional raised eyebrow. 

You see, my medical school was one of those “orphan schools” without a family medicine department. So, when I proudly announced during my first year that I wanted to go into family medicine, I was shocked to meet so much resistance and active discouragement. Specialists who treated conditions rarer than a blue moon would say, “You’re too smart for family medicine.” (Really? I thought being smart was the whole point!) 

When I started medical school, guess how many of the 120 students in the graduating class matched into family medicine? Just one.  

Thankfully, I found my people through the Maryland Academy of Family Physicians (MAFP), where I was greeted with open arms — and more opportunities than I could fit into my med school planner. “Want to be a student delegate at the National Conference?” Yes! “Want to know about this great scholarship for orphan-school students?” Amazing! “Need elective time at a local family medicine residency?” Absolutely! “How about joining the MAFP Board as a student rep?” Why not?! 

Thanks to their support, I found my home in family medicine. I connected with mentors who believed in me and rotations that reaffirmed my calling. And guess what? By graduation, there were three of us matching into family medicine — an all-time high! 

Now, as president of UAFP, I want to bring that same sense of joy, discovery, and community to every one of you. Family medicine is not just about practicing full‑spectrum care or treating every generation; it’s about finding your people, your purpose, and your passion in medicine. 

This year, I’m especially excited about supporting students who are thinking about family medicine and helping residents stay in Utah to practice. Together, we can build a stronger, more vibrant family medicine community. 

So, let’s keep the energy going! Whether you’re attending a UAFP event, mentoring a student, or simply connecting with a colleague, know that you’re part of something truly special. 

Here’s to another incredible year of family, medicine, and making a difference — together.