This August, PNWU made a notable impact at the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) FUTURE national conference, held from August 1-3 in Kansas City, MO. Celebrating its fiftieth year, the conference brought together over 1,500 medical students and more than 1,300 residents from across the country for an immersive exploration of family medicine and residency programs.
A record 17 PNWU Student Doctors participated in the event, marking a milestone in the University’s engagement with the national medical conference. In Kansas City, our students had the invaluable opportunity to connect directly with residency program directors and residents, gaining valuable insights into the medical journey that lies ahead.
Student Doctor Allie Ahlm, PNWU-COM Class of 2026, won the conference’s best poster award for medical students. Her research, titled “Sensitivity and Specificity of Waist-to-Height Ratio in Screening for Type 2 Diabetes Among Asian Americans,” was chosen from 200 submissions, with only 38 selected for presentation and 12 shortlisted for final judging.
“Student Dr. Ahlm had stiff competition,” noted Dr. Russell Maier, PNWU’s Associate Dean for Graduate Medical Education.
In addition to that noteworthy achievement, Student Dr. Emily Crose, PNWU-COM Class of 2027, was selected as a delegate, and Ana Chiang, PNWU-COM Class of 2028, had a resolution pass in the student house of delegates, underscoring PNWU’s strong presence and influence at the conference.
Support from the Washington Academy of Family Physicians (WAFP) has been instrumental in facilitating PNWU students’ attendance at such prestigious events, aligning with our mission to excel in family medicine and rural healthcare.
“We had a heck of a contingent from PNWU,” said Dr. Maier. “The support we receive reflects our success as an institution meeting our mission.”
“I learned so much about family medicine, which solidified my passion for the field.”
– Student Doctor Emily Crose
Students Drs. Emily Crose and Sophia Jadzak expressed their enthusiasm for the conference, with Crose remarking: “I had a blast at the National Conference! I learned so much about family medicine, which solidified my passion for the field.” Jadzak echoed that sentiment, highlighting the conference as a valuable networking and learning opportunity that broadened her career perspectives.
Ty Humbles, PNWU-COM Class of 2025, also praised the event, noting its significant impact on his residency search and future career planning. “The conference may have changed where I apply and end up going,” he explained, emphasizing his gratitude for the opportunity.
PNWU’s participation at the AAFP FUTURE conference not only highlights the University’s commitment to family medicine but also reinforces its leadership in preparing students for impactful careers in primary care.