Mission Statement
MSPA -PNWU chapter is the LGBTQ+ student-run club and organization at our medical school. Located in Yakima, WA we strive to work with local and national organizations; creating platforms, educational events, sharing opportunities, and bringing the medical and LGBTQ+ communities closer together.
Club Leadership
Oak Sonfist
President | Pronouns: they/them
As an out transgender and queer student at PNWU I am happy to represent the LGBTQIA+ community as president of this fantastic student-run club. I came to Yakima, WA by way of Portland, OR where I lived for several years post-undergrad and pre-medical school. I am originally from NYC and I went to a visual and performing arts high school there where I majored in studio art. From art to science, I love to learn with creativity. I attended undergrad in Worcester, MA. So I have lived in quite a few different settings at this point in my life. I am interested in pursuing a career in endocrinology or perhaps psychiatry. I would love to work specifically with the LGBTQ+ community in my future medical practice.
Sierra Bertolone-Smith
Vice President of Community Outreach | Pronouns: she/her/hers
A lover of all things outdoors, I have proudly called the great Pacific Northwest home for the last 9 years. Prior to PNWU, I lived in Portland, OR where I spent three post-baccalaureate years managing Sarcoma, GIST, and GU clinical trials. At this point in my medical student journey, I am drawn to obstetrics/gynecology and hematology oncology. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I am passionate about creating a more inclusive and accessible healthcare model for BIPOC and queer minorities. Beyond academia, you can find me outside on a trail, swimming in a mountain lake, whipping up a culinary masterpiece, or singing with my beloved A Capella group, B-Side Book Club.
Remy Arnot
Vice President of Student Affairs and BNGAP Liaison
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Born and raised in Western Montana, experiencing the outdoors is my thing. From skiing to climbing, to romping in the mud with my dogs, I like to be in the thick of things. Currently, I’m inspired to learn to rope on horseback… but med school takes time away from practice. Cardiology stole my heart. Excited to see where the road takes me.
James Hofmeister
Treasurer | Pronouns: He/Him/His
As an Ally to the LGBTQ+ community, I am happy to assist in any way possible to further the rights and recognition of this group. I am originally from Minnesota, but moved to California and then Washington. My family originally hailed from the Yakima area in days long ago, and I am happy to return so to speak. University of Minnesota Alumni, Neuroscience B.S. and proud Gophers fan. Experience in Digital Marketing and International Consulting made a brief departure from the medical world before very happily returning to it.
Kelsie Clausen
Secretary | Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
A Washington transplant from the California Bay Area. I have strong interests in women’s health, sports medicine, and LGBTQ advocacy. Starting medical school, I “retired” from running ultramarathon trail races, but still manage to adventure around the PNW on two feet, two wheels, or in a tent, in what little free time I have. I love chocolate, coffee, sunsets, my cat, and drawing.