Alyssa Ayala
Hometown: Redlands, CA
Medical School: Drexel College of Medicine
Favorite Spot in Philly: Rittenhouse square!! One of my favorite things to do is just grab a coffee from Vibrant and sit and people watch!
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: I wanted a place that had a good community and resident well-being!
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: At home drawing, gaming, or working on my next cosplay.
Leanza Carrero-Trapp
Chief Resident
Hometown: Syosset, Long Island
Medical School: New York Medical College, Valhalla, New York
Favorite Spot in Philly: Old City
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: Easy: the people. From start to finish on interview day, I felt an immediate connection and sense of calmness when interacting with the residents and faculty at CHFP. Even from behind a computer screen, I could tell this was a place that was genuine, kind, respectful of each other, and dedicated to delivering quality and equitable care to the underserved community they serve.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Exploring a different part of the city, trying a new restaurant or bar, spending time with my husband, family, and friends, or simply vegging out on my couch binging a favorite show of mine for millionth time.
Born and raised in New York and I have dedicated my academic and professional journey to serving diverse communities. I earned my undergraduate degree from Cornell University, completed my post-baccalaureate studies at Bryn Mawr College, and finally earned my medical degree from New York Medical College. As a family practitioner, I am passionate about both lifestyle and preventative medicine as well as providing compassionate, equitable care to patients from all backgrounds. Beyond my work in healthcare, I have a vested interest in feeding and supporting individuals experiencing homelessness. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband, family, and friends, and value building meaningful connections over food, shared experiences, and quality time.
Olivia Choi
Hometown: Annandale, VA
Medical School: Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite Spot in Philly: 30th Street Station kiss and ride. Just kidding, Center city food, Fairmount and historical museums everywhere.
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: During my interview, I could talk to faculty, residents and staff about anything and everything inside and outside the medicine and connect. Also, they are known for great teaching hospitals and a lot of electives that will help me be a well rounded family medicine physician for the future.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off? At home, carving wood, hosting board game nights, lathering myself in a Korean skincare routine. Or outside with my husband, biking and exploring the city (with sunscreen)
Aa'Mani Denni, MD
Chief Resident
Hometown: Elizabeth, NJ
Medical School: American University of Antigua College of Medicine
Favorite Spot in Philly: Any cute vibey Rooftop wine bar!
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: Location & environment was important. I needed to find a home away from home. The program embodies that brotherly spirit Philly is known for. I know my co-residents are there for me, and I can find that same support in the faculty.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: At Citizens Bank or Lincoln Field at a concert, playing Sims 4, spending time with my family in Jersey, or asking my friends to come out dancing with me!
I’m a Jersey girl, born and raised. I went to Rutgers University and studied biology and criminal justice. I attained my masters in biomedical forensic science from Syracuse University. I am coming from a background in social justice and forensics, where I focused on underserved communities. I was able to appreciate these communities needing another type of healing as well, so my pivot to family medicine was inevitable.
Lydia Frenzel Sulyok, DO
Hometown: Philadelphia, PA
Medical School: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite Spot in Philly: Wissahickon Park
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: I chose this program for its strong foundation in academic excellence and community-centered care. The program’s history—carrying forward the legacy of Hahnemann after its closure—reflects a deep commitment to continuity, resilience, and service to Philadelphia communities.
What stood out most is the breadth of training across diverse settings, including inpatient care at Chestnut Hill Hospital, pediatrics at St. Christopher’s, and continuity clinics in Manayunk and Wyncote—both NCQA Level 3 Patient-Centered Medical Homes. Residents also participate in community-based continuity clinics alongside Drexel medical students, providing care through partnerships with organizations like the Salvation Army and housing-first programs in Philadelphia. These experiences emphasize low-barrier, longitudinal care for individuals experiencing housing instability, aligning with harm reduction and dignity-centered models of care.
Supported by diverse faculty across the full scope of family medicine—from women’s health to geriatrics to medical humanities—the program fosters critical thinking, adaptability, and creativity in how we approach patient care. It is fundamentally committed to training physicians who are both skilled clinicians and advocates, prepared to address health inequities and serve their communities with purpose.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Usually at different parks—walking, playing cards or board games with friends or family, or just being outside in my garden with my cats.
Rock climbing at my local gym or craig. Exploring the city—trying new restaurants, visiting museums. Philadelphia’s energy and diversity are a big part of what keeps me grounded.
I also value time away, taking short trips to nearby cities, mountains, and beaches to recharge. These moments help me return to my work present and connected, allowing me to show up fully for my patients and community.
Eric Herrmann, DO
Hometown: Williamstown, NJ
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine -Erie
Favorite Spot in Philly: Center City
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: I was excited to return to the area and join this program. The welcoming environment created by the faculty and residents was apparent from my first visit. I continue to feel supported and continue developing my skills through their strong practice of evidence-based medicine.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Exploring local spots in Philly or in South Jersey with friends and family.
Christine Honor, MD
Chief Resident
Hometown: Mississauga, ON, Canada
Medical School: St. George’s University School of Medicine
Favorite Spot in Philly: Schuylkill River Trail
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: I was initially drawn to this program for its unique blend of academic rigor and community-centered care. What ultimately sealed the deal, however, was the people—the unwavering support of our faculty and co-residents, who make Philly feel like home.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Running, hiking, reading, watching bad TV, or occasionally playing hockey
I’m originally from Mississauga, ON, Canada, and am a proud graduate of St. George’s University School of Medicine. Some things I love about the Temple NWFM program include its emphasis on collaborative culture, community medicine, and continuity of care. I am also appreciative of the opportunity to work alongside a diverse group of physicians across various fields; from Sports Medicine, to Lifestyle Medicine, to Clinical Research, and much more! I’m passionate about Emergency Medicine and Sports Medicine.
Linda Li, MD
Hometown: Memphis, TN
Medical School: University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Favorite Spot in Philly: Citizens Bank Park- Go Phils!
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: We have pumpkin carving competitions during intern return!
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Playing Overcooked or FTL
Marquese McCormick
Chief Resident
Hometown: Cherry Hill, NJ
Medical School: University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Favorite Spot in Philly: The Linc!
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: The emphasis on community at Chestnut Hill stood out the most, Chestnut Hill is a close-knit program that values resident wellness and mentorship. I am very excited to begin my residency training at Chestnut Hill!
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: At a sporting event, spending time with my girlfriend, family, and friends, or outside with my dogs.
Bhavana Patil, MD
Hometown: Newburgh, NY
Medical School: Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Favorite Spot in Philly: Wissahickon Park, Fairmount Park's Belmont Plateau
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: I just felt connected to everyone instantly. At the mixer, everyone, residents and faculty alike were roasting each other and just laughing - and I knew these were my people. The strengths of the program really resonated with me - emphasis on practicing evidence based medicine (which is not the case at all programs) and unmeasurable amounts of opportunities to continue engaging in community health.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Camping or crocheting at a coffee shop.
Mrinal Anthony Subbiah
Hometown: Sparta, New Jersey
Medical School: Rowan
Favorite Spot in Philly: LOVE Park/JFK plaza
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: One of the most striking aspects of Chestnut Hill Family Practice was knowing how welcoming everyone was on interview day and how committed the program was to making sure that residents had the tools to succeed. The surrounding area and hospital are very community focused and oriented, with the program being just a short while away from downtown Philadelphia. Being part of the larger Temple cohort also gave a feeling that all Temple residents together, in and surrounding the city, were really making a difference in furthering patient care. The program was perfect for me having family living in Philadelphia too!
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Cruising my bike/board, exploring the local area or relaxing
Alexander Tejada, DO
Hometown: Tampa/Orlando, FL
Medical School: Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite Spot in Philly: Wissahickon Park, South st/Italian Market, Reading Terminal Market
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: This program has the diversity I strive to be a part of and the compassion to accept me for who I am. It has the curriculum to provide an excellent foundation, the flexibility to provide exposure/assistance with any interest, and opportunities to be the kind of FM doc you want to be.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: At a afro-folkloric drum rehearsal, my backyard next to my grill, or traveling with my spouse.
Suzanna Tom
Hometown: San Francisco, CA
Medical School: USF Morsani College of Medicine
Favorite Spot in Philly: driving along the Schuylkill Bank, karaoke at DuBa in Elkins Park, Chinatown!
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: I wanted to be in closer proximity to a large urban city while practicing among colleagues with whom I can joke around with and feel at home with.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: at home cuddling with my cat Kyo and watching Korean dramas or anime, strolling the aisles of Hmart, thrifting, trying new restaurants, going to R&B concerts, or if I'm feeling active then on the courts playing pickleball/volleyball and lifting weights at the gym
PGY-2
Jaileessa Casimir, MD
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Medical School: CUNY School of Medicine
Favorite Spot in Philly: Weekend walk in the Wissahickon Valley Park.
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: I was drawn to the emphasis on community initiatives, health equity/advocacy, and evidence-based medicine. I was also looking for a supportive and safe learning environment. I loved the diversity as well as the commitment to friendly vibes, snacks and giggles!
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Traveling to New York, Watching Love Island, Hanging out w/ friends and at Church!
Grant Sterling DeLozier
Hometown: Hollidaysburg, PA
Medical School: Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine
Favorite Spot in Philly: Little Fish, a small South Philly restaurant
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: When I was initially looking into residency programs, my focus was largely on the Greater Philadelphia area to be close to my fiance's family in Ambler. Chestnut Hill immediately stood out to me because I found many of the residents and faculty alike had interests very similar to my own listed in their bios. During interview day, I was further assured that the residents and faculty here would be people I'd love to spend the next 3 years with.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Playing/watching any and all sports, running, working out, spending time with family and friends exploring new restaurants in the city.
Matthew Delzell, DO
Hometown: Bettendorf, IA
Medical School: A.T. Still University – Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite Spot in Philly: Center city
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: I chose CHH Family Medicine because I felt it offered excellent training, a welcoming group of people, and a genuine commitment to caring for the community.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: At the Jersey Shore.
Christina Gibbons, MD
Hometown: Washington, D.C.
Medical School: Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University
Favorite Spot in Philly: Schuylkill River trail... but also Pho 75
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: The people and the culture of fun! Everyone is so truly kind and genuine. I also wanted to train at a community hospital with a diverse patient population and continue working with the medically underserved.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: On walks with my husband and our 6 month old daughter, at Costco, playing pickleball, watching Bake-Off, or traveling!
Phoebe Ilevbare
Hometown: Bronx, NY
Medical School: SUNY Upstate Medical University
Favorite Spot in Philly: Chinatown & the arcade in the Fashion District mall!
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: Honestly, the vibes from the people here were the warmest! Even through the zoom screens, I could pick up how genuinely close the residents were with each other and with the faculty. I also appreciated that the faculty's interests aligned with my own. Lastly, Dr. Berta remembered from my app/interview that I loved Russell Westbrook, and even asked how he was doing in the NBA during the second look, which was a green flag for me and super memorable about his character to care about others!
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: praying with my lil bro for Russell Westbrook to win a ring, watching movies & anime, exploring Philly and finding new places to eat with my partner :’)
Patrick Kowalski, MD
Hometown: Bethlehem, PA
Medical School: Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine
Favorite Spot in Philly: Lot K at the Sports Complex
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: CHFP offers an opportunity to serve a diverse population in a supportive environment that encourages growth as a person and physician. I look forward to becoming part of this wonderful team!
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Enjoying outdoor spaces, catching a local sporting event and trying to navigate life in a big, new city
Marcia Manzone, MD
Hometown: Pocopson, PA
Medical School: Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University
Favorite Spot in Philly: Old City during the day, Boathouse Row at night
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: The people! I knew halfway through my first day as a medical student that this is where I wanted to be and I am so happy to be a member of the team.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: At home crafting with my cat, reading by candlelight, baking a bundt cake or seeing a concert.
Mikayla Muse, MD
Hometown: Louisville, Kentucky
Medical School: University of Louisville School of Medicine
Favorite Spot in Philly: My neighborhood, Mt. Airy
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: I was drawn to this program because of its location in an urban setting and its clear commitment to community medicine. The program’s focus on addressing social determinants of health really resonated with my own values and long-term goals.So far, I’ve been incredibly impressed by the faculty’s dedication to teaching and mentorship. I also appreciate the strong inpatient training and the opportunity to serve such a diverse community.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Exploring Wissahickon trails with my dog, sitting outside at Parc on a Sunday, trying new restaurants in Fishtown, or driving to Cape May for a beach day.
Oyindamola Olayinka, MD
Hometown: Maryland
Medical School: St. George’s University School of Medicine
Favorite Spot in Philly: Kelly Drive
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: I chose this program because of the diversity, emphasis on community outreach, variety of the curriculum and emphasis on practicing evidence based medicine. While interviewing, I got the sense of how supportive the faculty were and felt the familial vibes and camaraderie between the faculty and residents, this has remained true during my first year of residency.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Eating my way through the city of Philadelphia.
Ella Park, DO
Hometown: Elmira, NY
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine - Elmira
Favorite Spot in Philly: Wissahickon Park, Philly Museum of Art
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: My favorite aspect of this program is how at home I feel, bonding and working with everyone. We are the foodies who support each other and share snacks on black cloud days. Our emphasis on community, diversity, and curiosity-driven learning is what makes us shine.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Traveling to nearby cities and nature trails. Supporting local artists and exploring markets. Fiend for arts and crafts.
Nisbett Sharma, MD
Hometown: Toronto, Canada
Medical School: St. George’s University School of Medicine
Favorite Spot in Philly: Waterside walks along Kelly Drive
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: One of the things that I love the most about the program is how personable everyone is. It creates a warm, welcoming learning environment. You build long-term relationships with your peers, attendings and other clinic/hospital staff! Was definitely able to find a home away from home at this program! We are also exposed to a variety of acute and chronic conditions in both the inpatient and outpatient setting, strengthening our clinical competence.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: In Toronto spending time with my friends and family, exploring new coffee shops and rooftop bars in Center City, or simply binge watching my favorite shows!
Shika Veera
Hometown: Allentown, PA
Medical School: Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite Spot in Philly: The Franklin Institute, I grew up going there
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: The people and sense of community stood out to me! At the second look, everyone was warm, welcoming, and shared my passion for outreach. I believe that the strong teaching and electives offered at CHFP will help me grow into a well-rounded physician.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Outside gardening, going on walks and listening to audio books, or trying new foods with my fiance.
Mackenzie Wills, DO
Hometown: Melbourne, FL
Medical School: Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine -Erie
Favorite Spot in Philly: Schuylkill River Trail
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: I love the culture of the program. It cultivates clinical intellectual curiosity and is filled with genuine individuals who want you to achieve your goals both personally and professionally.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Traveling to New York, running on the Schuylkill river trail, or snuggling up on the couch to read or rewatch my favorite shows.
PGY-1
Eliza Adam, MD
Hometown: Allentown, PA
Medical School: Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine
Favorite Spot in Philly: I intend to discover the best cheesesteak place in Philly!
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: I sought training in a diverse, opportunity-rich community, and this residency offers exactly that.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Playing video games, baking cake, burning off said cake at the gym, or spending time with friends and family!
Aakash Anandjiwala, DO
Hometown: Fort Lauderdale, FL
Medical School: William Carey University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite Spot in Philly: Reading Terminal Market and the Tri-Stadium area.
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: Everyone talks about the people and education this program has to offer, and it's hard not to jump on that bandwagon. Everyone was welcoming from the start and reached out to get to know me. This program also really helps you achieve your goals and sets you up greatly for life after residency.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Watching sports/movies anywhere in Philly, hanging out with my girlfriend, or at the basketball/pickleball courts.
Francisco Andrade, MD
Hometown: North Bergen, NJ
Medical School: SUNY Downstate Medical Center College of Medicine
Favorite Spot in Philly: The Liberty Bell and the nearest La Colombe in my vicinity.
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: I am inspired by the mentorship and appreciate the dynamic nature of this program. I wanted to be part of a program that is eager to innovate in its curriculum and overall structure.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Cooking recipes I found on TikTok or cycling around the city.
Samuel Barron, DO
Hometown: El Paso, Texas
Medical School: Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine
Favorite Spot in Philly: The Academy of Natural Sciences (dinosaurs!)
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: The people are amazing! Meeting the faculty and residents during the interview and again at the second look made the program stand out from others. Everyone is so friendly and truly cares about the residents and it is the perfect environment where I feel I can be successful during my training. I look forward to joining the family!
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Walking my dog, working out, losing golf balls, playing the piano (if I had one), going somewhere new with my fiancée, and being let down by the Dallas Cowboys.
Lauren Carter, MD
Hometown: Mountain Top, PA
Medical School: Ross University School of Medicine
Favorite Spot in Philly: Loco Pez in West Philly
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: The patients! I love the ability to work with a highly diverse patient population in one of the coolest cities in the country.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Probably eating wings with my husband, chasing my dog around the local dog park, or taking a nap with my cats! You will also find me perfecting my sourdough bread baking skills.
Jackson Casteel, MD
Hometown: Canal Fulton, OH
Medical School: Northeast Ohio Medical University
Favorite Spot in Philly: I’d guess that it will be the Philadelphia Zoo or one of the local parks!
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: Chestnut Hill was my favorite interview of the year. I truly felt like myself during it, and the positive relationships between everyone was obvious from the start. Even though I had never been to Philly, it was an easy decision given the warm culture I would become part of.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Hopefully you can’t! I’ll be out backpacking or camping when time and weather permits, but during the week you can find me eating good food with good people.
Alexis Cheney, MD
Hometown: Los Angeles, CA
Medical School: David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Favorite Spot in Philly: Ask me again in a year! For now, my favorite spot is Reading Terminal Market. As a recent transplant, I'm still exploring the city, but I love being somewhere that captures so much of Philly's energy, culture, and food in one place.
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: What stood out to me was the strong sense of community among the residents, faculty, and staff. I was looking for a program that valued both excellent patient care and resident well-being, and Temple clearly embodied both. I also appreciated the opportunity to care for a diverse patient population while learning alongside faculty and residents who are deeply invested in both education and the community they serve.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Trying a new coffee shop or brewery, searching for the best brunch spot in town, snowboarding on the closest mountain (in the winter), or spending time outdoors and playing sports with friends.
Philip Duodu, MD
Hometown: Edison, NJ
Medical School: Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University
Favorite Spot in Philly: Schuylkill River Trail
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: I had a great experience as a medical student during my sub-internship. All the attendings, residents and staff were very approachable and willing to teach, and it felt like a family. I got the sense it'd be a great place to learn to be the best family physician I can be!
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Playing and watching soccer, spending time with my girlfriend, walking the River Trail, or visiting my family in NJ.
Elhaam Jawadi, MD
Hometown: Chantilly, Virginia
Medical School: Penn State College of Medicine
Favorite Spot in Philly: Center City :)
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: Everyone is very kind and welcoming and there is a massive focus on community, which I love. Plus, the location!
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Binge watching any reality show on Netflix, taking a walk, hanging out with friends and family!
Harrison Knowlton, MD
Hometown: Turner, ME
Medical School: Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Favorite Spot in Philly: Schuylkill River Trail or Fairmount Park when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom!
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: Great people, great community! Everyone I spoke to was so kind and welcoming.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: On a run, perusing a farmer's market, trying a new bakery, or curled up on my couch watching the newest Real Housewives episode.
Loren Odam, MD
Hometown: Baldwin, New York
Medical School: Rutgers New Jersey Medical School
Favorite Spot in Philly: Schuylkill River Park
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: From my interview through second-look day, I felt a genuine sense of community at Temple Chestnut Hill. The warm, family-like environment made the program feel like the perfect fit!
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Spending time with family and friends, skiing, traveling, or exploring new restaurants.
Princess Ogidi, MD
Hometown: Houston, TX
Medical School: Drexel University College of Medicine
Favorite Spot in Philly: Wissahickon Valley Park
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: Aside from the fact that the program will prepare me to practice in any setting, I believe Chestnut Hill is a program that truly cares about their residents. I know it’ll be a place I can thrive.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Definitely trying a new happy hour spot. Who doesn’t love great food at a great price?
Subhadra Thampi, MD
Hometown: South Brunswick, NJ
Medical School: Cooper Medical School of Rowan University
Favorite Spot in Philly: Schuylkill River Trail. It is beautiful and I love to go out there for a nice walk!
Why Chestnut Hill Family Practice: The people! Everyone is so kind and welcoming and I felt it would be a great fit for me.
Where can we find you when your pager is turned off: Exploring restaurants, spending time with my family and friends, dancing, traveling, and working out.