The Renaissance School of Medicine trains more than 750 residents and fellows annually in 68 accredited programs across various specialties. These integral members of our healthcare team are committed to providing compassionate care to our patients and their families. During February, Resident and Fellow Appreciation Month at Stony Brook Medicine, we recognize all our residents and fellows and celebrate their hard work, valuable contributions and dedication to our patients, staff and the communities we serve. Here, we are shining a light on some of our residents and fellows. Click on their images below to read more about their stories and the varied areas of focus that are shaping their careers.
William Guo, MDPGY4, Department of Dermatology
Aqsa Nadeem, DOPGY3, Department of Psychiatry
Ruey-Chyi Wang, DDSPGY2, Department of General Practice Residency in Dentistry
Gabrielle Fusco, DDSPGY2, Department of Pediatric Dentistry
Jessica Fenton, MDPGY3, Department of Preventive Medicine
Emily Stetler, MDPGY7, Department of Maternal Fetal Medicine
Khushbu Pandya Shah, DOPGY3, Department of Internal Medicine
Andrea Ball, DOPGY2, Department of Internal Medicine
Luke Curran, MDPGY1, Department of Internal Medicine
Adam Bindelglass, MDPGY4, Department of Anesthesiology
Genna Monanian, MDPGY3, Department of Anesthesiology
Seth Greenspan, MDPGY2, Department of Anesthesiology
Catherine Devitt, MDPGY1, Department of Anesthesiology
Alanna Gordon, DOPGY1, Transitional Year
Bayan Razzaq, MDPGY4, Department of Neurosurgery
Ammarah Spall, MDPGY4, Department of Medicine/Pediatrics
Serosh Naeem, MDPGY4, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine
Neil Nadpara, MDPGY6, Department of Gastroenterology
Muhammad Ahsan, MDPGY6, Department of Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Medicine
Amir Reihani, MDPGY5, Department of Critical Care Medicine
Peyton Watkins, MDPGY3, Department of Pediatrics
Vahnee Garimella, MDPGY2, Department of Pediatrics
Prachi Mohapatra, DOPGY1, Department of Pediatrics
Zaina Naeem, MDPGY5, Department of Surgery
Naina Rao, MDPGY4, Department of Surgery
Daniel Rodriguez, MDPGY3, Department of Surgery
David Roberts, DOPGY2, Department of Surgery
Alex Houser, MDPGY3, Department of Vascular Surgery
Justin Buro, MDPGY6, Department of Plastic Surgery
Yunbo Nie, MDPGY4, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health
Lajari Anne, MDPGY3, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health
Julia Tsvyakh, MDPGY2, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health
Amanda Antonacci, DOPGY1, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health
Pallavi Tatapudy, MDPGY5, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
Watch videos featuring William Wertheim, MD, MBA, Executive Vice President for Stony Brook Medicine, to learn about the Residency and Fellowship Program and the important contributions of residents and fellows.
Learn more about the exceptional training offered through all our residency and fellowship programs at the Renaissance School of Medicine.
William Guo, MD
PGY4, Department of Dermatology
Dr. William “Will” Guo is the Chief Resident in Dermatology and inaugural Dermatology graduate of Stony Brook’s Three-Year MD Program. Dr. Guo provides exemplary medical care and actively teaches. He created a research collaboration between faculty, residents and medical students; has published numerous studies; and has been invited to present at multiple national conferences. Dr. Guo is pursuing a Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology (Mohs) Fellowship and is a key part of the Dermatology team.
Aqsa Nadeem, DO
PGY3, Department of Psychiatry, Stony Brook Eastern Long Island Hospital
Dr. Aqsa Nadeem exemplifies the kind of resident that every hospital system seeks: compassionate, inquisitive and hard-working. She is universally well-liked by staff, faculty and patients for her warmth, intellectual curiosity and professionalism. She is also a true scholar (having presented a poster as first author in 2023) and an excellent clinician, excelling in both pharmacotherapy and various psychotherapies. Her direct supervisors, resident peers and medical students consistently voice their positive impressions of her clinical skills and teaching ability. Dr. Nadeem is a true asset for Stony Brook Medicine and will excel after completing her residency.
Ruey-Chyi Wang, DDS
PGY2, Department of General Practice Residency in Dentistry
Dr. Ruey-Chyi Wang stepped up this year by being the department’s only chief resident. She has played an instrumental role training and educating first-year General Dental residents. Her teaching endeavors extend to pre-doctoral classes at the School of Dental Medicine. She has excellent diagnostic and clinical skills.
Gabrielle Fusco, DDS
PGY2, Department of Pediatric Dentistry
Dr. Gabrielle (Gabby) Fusco exemplifies leadership and clinical excellence particularly in managing cases scheduled for treatment in the operating room setting. Her exceptional organizational skills shine through development of effective protocols to streamline patient care and team coordination. Approachable and positive, Dr. Gabby’s constant smile and dedication uplift colleagues and patients alike, representative of the collective cohort in the Pediatric Dental Residency Program.
Jessica Fenton, MD
PGY3, Department of Preventive Medicine
Dr. Jessica Fenton is exceptional in acting to increase health equity by initiating a collaboration with the Office of Minority Health in the Suffolk County Department of Health Services and with the School of Nursing to improve access to and awareness of preventive services within the minority community. Specifically, she worked with minority-owned and operated barbershops to make them resources for disseminating health information and promoting healthy behaviors. During these “Styled Wellness” days, healthcare providers (e.g., nursing students) were deployed to barbershops and salons in underserved areas to perform blood pressure screening and education.
Emily Stetler, MD
PGY7, Department of Maternal Fetal Medicine
Dr. Emily Stetler is a compassionate and empathetic physician who is dedicated to excellent patient care. She goes above and beyond for her co-fellows and colleagues. She will be completing her thesis on Opioid Use Disorder in Pregnancy this year.
Khushbu Pandya Shah, DO
PGY3, Department of Internal Medicine
Dr. Khushbu Pandya is described by her peers as one of the kindest, most hardworking co-residents and is an excellent team player and leader. She often would stay late to ensure a safe patient handoff and is always willing to lend a hand. Dr. Pandya has also made significant contributions in research where her work focuses optimizing care and harm reduction for veterans.
Andrea Ball, DO
PGY2, Department of Internal Medicine
Dr. Andrea Ball is an excellent role model for residents and medical students. Her peers share that with every patient encounter, she displays warmth and empathy. In difficult clinical situations, she thinks carefully and critically, and performs well above the expected level. Peers note that they are constantly inspired by her ability to develop strong connections with patients and her dedication to continuous learning.
Luke Curran, MD
PGY1, Department of Internal Medicine
Dr. Luke Curran is described by his peers as a standout colleague who exemplifies high-quality patient care, professionalism and compassion. He is a constant source of support, always offering help to his patients and teammates with a smile. His peers share that he is a rising leader who brings intelligence, humility and dedication to the bedside.
Adam Bindelglass, MD
PGY4, Department of Anesthesiology
Dr. Adam Bindelglass has been an outstanding contributor to the Department of Anesthesiology as the Chief Resident for Education. In this role, Dr. Bindelglass is responsible for coordinating the daily medical student and rotator assignments and coordinating other educational activities. He has gone above and beyond in his role. He gives medical student lectures and assists with the acute care clerkship airway workshop. Dr. Bindelglass is a graduate of the Three-Year MD Program at the Renaissance School of Medicine, which allows highly selected students to complete medical school in three years. He will be joining Stony Brook University Hospital as a faculty member after graduation.
Genna Monanian, MD
PGY3, Department of Anesthesiology
Dr. Genna Monanian has been an outstanding contributor to graduate medical education activities. She serves on the Patient Safety Council, the GME Wellness Committee and the Sustainability Committee. She can be seen in the first episode of Healthcast, hosted by Dr. Jonathan Buscaglia, Chief Medical Officer, airing on the hospital and Health Sciences digital monitors. Dr. Monanian’s service extends beyond Stony Brook as she served as a member of the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Governing Council and NYSSA Delegate for the ASA Resident Component House of Delegates. In addition to her extensive service, Dr. Monanian has contributed to several scholarly projects within the department; had several poster presentations at the ASA’s 2024 Annual Meeting; and co-authored a book chapter in perioperative pain management.
Seth Greenspan, MD
PGY2, Department of Anesthesiology
Dr. Seth Greenspan is a first-year anesthesiology resident who has already contributed significant time toward scholarly activities and service. Dr. Greenspan presented a medically challenging case at the American Society of Anesthesiologists’ (ASA) 2024 Annual Meeting this past October and is a co-author on a submitted manuscript on postoperative delirium. He served nationally on the ASA’s House of Delegates Reference Committee for Scientific Affairs during the recent ASA annual meeting. Dr. Greenspan is a member of the GME’s Patient Safety Council and served locally on an advisory panel to guide medical students on the residency interview process.
Catherine Devitt, MD
PGY1, Department of Anesthesiology
Dr. Catherine Devitt is a graduate of Renaissance School of Medicine and hit the ground running when she started her internship at Stony Brook University Hospital this past July. Within a few weeks of starting the internship, Dr. Devitt co-authored a manuscript on developing drugs to manage acute pain. The manuscript was published in the journal Drugs in October 2024. Congratulations Dr. Devitt!
Alanna Gordon, DO
PGY1, Transitional Year, Stony Brook Southampton Hospital
Dr. Alanna Gordon exemplifies an exceptional work ethic that sets a high standard within the program. Whether completing rotations, attending didactic sessions or assisting other residents, her commitment to excellence shines through in everything she does. Dr. Gordon approaches each task with thoroughness and precision, ensuring that her work reflects the highest standards of care and professionalism. Her peers trust her dedication and integrity, making her an ideal Transitional Year representative, and we are confident she will excel in this role and positively impact the program.
Bayan Razzaq, MD
PGY4, Department of Neurosurgery
Dr. Bayan Razzaq joined Stony Brook Medicine in 2021 after completing his education at West Virginia School of Medicine. Since then, Dr. Razzaq has been an outstanding and beloved resident in the Department of Neurosurgery. He has been described as “the whole package — displaying integrity, hard work, gentle compassion and strong surgical skills — he is a resident for all seasons, and we are so proud that he is a resident in our program.”
Ammarah Spall, MD
PGY4, Department of Medicine/Pediatrics
Dr. Ammarah Spall is a fourth-year Med-Peds Chief Resident, distinguishing herself with dedication, professionalism and compassionate care for her patients and colleagues. Dr. Spall is frequently commended for her leadership skills, inspiring her teams with her mentorship, teaching and kindness, which contributes to a supportive learning environment and impacting those around her. She joined the Med-Peds program from Drexel University College of Medicine. The department is happy to shine a spotlight on Dr. Ammarah Spall.
Serosh Naeem, MD
PGY4, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine
Dr. Serosh Naeem is an exemplary resident who has demonstrated excellence throughout her four years at Stony Brook Medicine. Dr. Naeem has dedicated herself to learning, excelled surgically and advocated tirelessly for her patients. Her influence was far reaching, and she has been a phenomenal role model and mentor to colleagues, juniors and students. Dr. Naeem’s colleagues and mentors are confident that she will continue to lead and accomplish great things as she embarks on her next chapter as a urogynecology fellow at Emory University.
Neil Nadpara, MD
PGY6, Department of Gastroenterology
Dr. Neil Nadpara is an exemplary gastroenterology (GI) fellow who embodies Stony Brook’s mission and values. As the Chief GI Fellow, Dr. Nadpara has demonstrated strong leadership, hard work and commitment to the fellowship program. He is a dependable team player, always ready to help his colleagues. His scholastic achievements are equally impressive with his research presented at national GI conferences. The GI Division is proud to shine a spotlight on Dr. Nadpara’s extraordinary character and accomplishments.
Muhammad Ahsan, MD
PGY6, Department of Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Medicine
Dr. Muhammad Ahsan is described by his peers as being a genuinely supportive person and a true team player. He is known for helping whenever he can and never expecting anything in return. He is the epitome of professionalism and displays exemplary collegiality. He is highly intelligent and approachable. Dr. Ahsan doesn’t hesitate to go above and beyond for patients and their families, both in the ICU and in the clinic.
Amir Reihani, MD
PGY5, Department of Critical Care Medicine
Dr. Amir Reihani joined Stony Brook Medicine after completing his Pulmonary Medicine Fellowship at Eisenhower Hospital. He is described by his peers as being extremely smart, collegial and hardworking. He is known in the division for being friendly, supportive and overall a great person to work with.
Peyton Watkins, MD
PGY3, Department of Pediatrics
Dr. Peyton Watkins is an outstanding leader and team player. She is quick to help wherever needed and demonstrates an outstanding work ethic. Her vibrant energy is appreciated by the residents, patients and families that she serves. She has been an integral member of the Quality Assurance, Quality Improvement and Patient Safety Councils. Dr. Watkins will serve as a Pediatric Chief Resident next year while applying for Pediatric Emergency Medicine fellowship.
Vahnee Garimella, MD
PGY2, Department of Pediatrics
Dr. Vahnee Garimella is an incredibly smart and helpful senior, always advocating for patients and fellow residents. She demonstrates deep compassion, consistently prioritizing the well-being of others. She has pursued her interest in pediatric endocrinology by spearheading a transgender medicine elective and has been integral to the creation of an innovative Insulin PowerPlan to ensure patient safety. Dr. Garimella’s dedication to both her patients and residents makes her a truly exceptional role model and mentor.
Prachi Mohapatra, DO
PGY1, Department of Pediatrics
Dr. Prachi Mohapatra is a caring intern who provides excellent patient care. She is a team player who is eager to help her co-residents. She has a good sense of humor, and her smiling presence is a comfort to patients and families. She develops rapport with patients and is an asset to the pediatric resident team. Prior to residency, Dr. Mohapatra participated in research studying adverse childhood experiences, which helps inform her clinical perspective during residency.
Zaina Naeem, MD
PGY5, Department of Surgery
Dr. Zaina Naeem began her Stony Brook Medicine journey as a Renaissance School of Medicine student before joining the Stony Brook University Hospital General Surgery residency program. Dr. Naeem has developed significantly over that time. She serves as an Administrative (Education) Chief leveraging her altruism to enhance her peers and program. Dr. Naeem is overall “excellent” (likes that word) through her kindness, compassion, knowledge and skills. Her mentors and colleagues look forward to her continuing development as a vascular surgery fellow at NYU next year.
Naina Rao, MD
PGY4, Department of Surgery
Dr. Naina Rao joined the Stony Brook Medicine family from New York Medical College. An incredibly well-rounded physician, she is attentive to the needs of everyone she works with. Additionally, she provides high-quality patient care while also being highly supportive of her peer residents through her developing leadership and teaching. Dr. Rao’s strong work ethic, knowledge, technical skills and calm enhances her and everyone around her.
Daniel Rodriguez, MD
PGY3, Department of Surgery
A native of Port Jefferson Station, Dr. Daniel Rodriguez returned to Long Island to join the Stony Brook Medicine family from Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine (Arizona). Dr. Rodriguez is down to earth and grounded, bringing a calm and professional approach to everything he does. He provides the highest-level care for patients while also providing balance to a team through kindness, mentoring and leadership. Dr. Rodriguez is an outstanding physician and developing surgeon.
David Roberts, DO
PGY2, Department of Surgery
Dr. David Roberts joined the Stony Brook Medicine family from Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Roberts exhibits remarkable maturity approaching his training with a positive attitude and high standard of professionalism. He is recognized by both peers and faculty for putting in the extra effort for patients and the surgical team. Dr. Roberts accomplishes this while pursuing all opportunities to enhance his own learning as he works to become a great physician and surgeon.
Alex Houser, MD
PGY3, Department of Vascular Surgery
Dr. Alex Houser is an integral part of the Vascular Surgery team. He is approachable, trustworthy, hardworking and always eager to help. His peers describe him as the “glue of the team” — uniting the members with the common goals of clinical excellence, patient advocacy and trainee wellness. Dr. Houser is the “OR Ninja” — he never fails to appear in the operating room whether it’s to assist with the procedure or let his team know that our patients are being taken care of.
Justin Buro, MD
PGY6, Department of Plastic Surgery
Dr. Justin Buro, Chief Plastic Surgery Resident, exemplifies leadership through compassionate, family-centered patient care. Known for his ability to connect with patients and their families, he fosters trust and ensures every voice is heard in the decision-making process. Dr. Buro is a role model in the field, combining surgical expertise with empathy to create a positive impact on patients and their loved ones.
Yunbo Nie, MD
PGY4, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health
Dr. Yunbo Nie joined Stony Brook Medicine as a psychiatry resident after completing medical school at the University of Rochester. He enjoys caring for both inpatients and outpatients and strives to continue advancing the nurturing environment that defines the greater Stony Brook community. Outside of his clinical duties, he enjoys hiking, sightseeing and research. Dr. Nie is demonstrating outstanding leadership skills this academic year. He served as the Senior Outpatient Resident in July and has also stepped up to the plate for last-minute medical student teaching opportunities. We greatly appreciate having him in our department.
Lajari Anne, MD
PGY3, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health
Dr. Lajari Anne is nothing if not a product of the theater. Acting, singing and producing throughout medical school, she’s happiest when working between the arts and sciences. She feels lucky to be let into patients’ lives and stories and finds there is nothing quite so therapeutic as helping someone feel heard. Dr. Anne’s peers praise her advocacy efforts and compassionate patient care. They describe her as a fantastic co-resident who always makes time to lend an ear or a hand.
Julia Tsvyakh, MD
PGY2, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health
Dr. Julia Tsvyakh graduated from the Renaissance School of Medicine and joined the five-year Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry residency track. She is described by faculty as demonstrating the highest levels of integrity and dependability. Dr. Tsvyakh is always kind and caring with patients and families. She is detail-oriented, often picking up on inconsistencies in patient’s narratives that help to bring important issues to light, clarify diagnosis and guide treatment. She is a pleasure to work with and a true team player.
Amanda Antonacci, DO
PGY1, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health
Dr. Amanda Antonacci is a dedicated team player who excels in serving her patients and their families within the Stony Brook Medicine community. She demonstrates exceptional empathy, making her patients feel truly heard and understood. Dr. Antonacci is committed to creating a safe space for open communication. Her passion for mental health was ignited during high school when she volunteered in Stony Brook’s Psychiatry Research Department. Faculty describe her as hard working, reliable and compassionate. She is quietly competent, and we are lucky to have her.
Pallavi Tatapudy, MD
PGY5, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
Dr. Pallavi Tatapudy’s enthusiasm for whole-person care has led her to champion family psychiatry and effective communication. Her academic initiatives focus on equity, inclusion and neurodiversity. During her residency, she completed the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Other Related Disabilities Fellowship and now serves as Medical Director of the program. She has presented at multiple national conferences, including recently leading a wellness-focused Bhangra dance program at the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Tatapudy is a truly compassionate, caring and dedicated psychiatrist. She gives her all to the families she works with.