Obstetrics Gynecology Residents

Everybody wants to know what to expect in residency. Learn more about our program from those who know.

Nidhi Chawla
Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hi! My name is Nidhi! I grew up in Glastonbury, Connecticut and went to UConn for undergrad, where I received a BS in Physiology & Neurobiology and a BA in Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. My interest in women’s health really took off during a summer internship at a reproductive health clinic, where I saw how impactful the work in this community can be - and then I realized there’s no turning back. OBGYN was definitely my calling!

I went on to complete my MS at TouroCOM and stayed there for medical school. During my fourth year, I had the chance to do a gynecology sub-internship at Baystate, and it immediately felt like the right fit. The residents and faculty were so welcoming, supportive, and genuinely excited to teach. The environment felt incredibly inclusive and encouraging, and it was clear that people here truly prioritize learning and supporting one another.

Outside of medicine, I love doing Pilates, going on long outdoor walks, exploring new coffee shops, and a self-care night. I’m also a huge UConn basketball fan (go Huskies!) so will be very invested during March madness!

I’m so excited to be training in such a collaborative environment and can’t wait to start this next chapter in Western Mass!

Rachelle Grach
Rocky Vista University Colorado College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hi everyone, I’m Rachelle! I was born and raised in Colorado just outside of Boulder before heading to the University of Denver, where I double majored in Biology and Psychology with a concentration in Cognitive Neuroscience. After undergrad, I spent two gap years traveling with my partner, working as a medical assistant, and serving as a volunteer doula at a local county hospital in Denver. My experience as a doula for marginalized communities is what first sparked my passion for women’s health and supporting underserved communities during some of their most vulnerable moments.

I went on to attend Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Colorado, where my interest in pursuing Ob/Gyn continued to flourish. I was especially drawn to Baystate after my sub-internship in Gynecologic Oncology, where I experienced firsthand the strong sense of team camaraderie, emphasis on holistic, empathetic care, and the genuinely supportive environment within the department. I was also excited to learn that Baystate is a Ryan Program site, which strongly aligns with my passion for family planning and expanding access to comprehensive reproductive care. I feel so lucky to be joining a program that prioritizes both excellent patient care and resident well-being.

Outside of medicine, I love staying active and trying new things, whether that’s hot yoga, snowboarding, exploring new restaurants, or getting outside for hikes and walks with my two dogs. I also love traveling and am so excited to explore New England and all the new adventures it has to offer. I feel incredibly grateful to be starting my career in Ob/Gyn at Baystate and can’t wait for what’s ahead!

Estelle Hofgaertner
Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University

Hi everyone! My name is Estelle, and I am thrilled to be joining the team at Baystate. I was raised in White Plains, NY, and attended Barnard College in New York City, where I earned my undergraduate degree in Neuroscience. As the youngest of three daughters, and through my experience at a women’s college, I developed a strong voice in advocacy and a deep passion for reproductive rights.

During college, I volunteered as a doula at NYU Long Island Hospital—an experience that was truly transformative and solidified my desire to pursue a career in OB/GYN. I was drawn to the field for its unique blend of surgical care, longitudinal patient relationships, and focus on reproductive health. After graduation, I spent a gap year as a medical assistant and volunteered in the emergency department at Bellevue Hospital in NYC, further strengthening my commitment to caring for diverse and underserved populations. I then attended the Frank H. Netter MD School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University in Connecticut.

On my interview day at Baystate, I was immediately struck by the kindness and supportive culture among both faculty and residents. I was also drawn to the program’s diverse, high-risk patient population and its well-rounded, robust curriculum. I am confident that training at Baystate will prepare me to become a compassionate and skilled OB/GYN.

Outside of medicine, I enjoy crocheting, hiking, playing tennis, practicing yoga, and cooking. I love spending time with my husband, my two cats, and visiting my mom, sisters, and nephew in New York City. I’m especially excited to explore Western Massachusetts in the coming years!

Maria Lorestein
Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine

Hi there, my name is Maria! I prefer to go by “Ria” and I use they/them/theirs as my pronouns. I am originally from Columbus, Ohio but my partner’s family and home for me is Boston, Massachusetts. For undergrad I studied at Denison University, an incredible place where I majored in Biology (with an emphasis in environmental and botanics) and minored in Archaeology. Let’s just say I took advantage of an amazing liberal arts education and thoroughly explored my passions. During my time there I interned for a summer at a small hospital in rural Chattisgarh, India which changed my career trajectory and prompted me to seek out my medical education. While preparing my application I moved to Boston to be with my partner, EMT-ing through COVID and working as a Research Assistant at Boston Children’s Hospital. After my three years there, I went on to medical school at Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine in Dayton, Ohio. It was extremely tough to choose to leave the New England area but my specific school allowed me to have a strong mentorship with the Wright Patterson AirForce base and residency programs there as I was on the Healthcare Professional Scholarship Program through the AirForce.

Baystate’s residency program particularly seemed like an amazing fit with their incredibly warm and invested staff as well as clearly passionate residents. This OBGYN program has a uniquely diverse patient population and an emphasis on global health, which I received a distinction in during my time in medical school. While I’m excited for every aspect of OBGYN, I am particularly passionate about global health, patient education, gynecologic care and inclusion for the LGBTQIA+ community, and reproductive endocrinology/ infertility.

Outside of medicine I enjoy hosting cookbook dinner parties with friends, plenty of nerdy things like DND, powerlifting and running, along with getting outdoors (skiing, hiking, you name it) with my partner and dog Neawise. We’re ecstatic to further explore Western Mass and once again be close to home.

Kara Pflaster
University of Vermont College of Medicine

Hi! My name is Kara! I'm originally from San Diego but spent most of my life growing up in Charlotte, Vermont. I completed my undergraduate studies in biology and political science at the University of Vermont and afterwards, spent three years as a medical assistant at a busy community health center in Burlington. There, I worked closely with diverse patient populations, with a focus on New American visits, outreach medicine, and prenatal care. I then went back to a very familiar place and attended medical school at the University of Vermont.

I am so excited to be at Baystate for OB/GYN residency. I was drawn to the program’s strong clinical training, high surgical and obstetric volume, and the supportive, collaborative environment among residents and faculty.

Outside of medicine, I can be found skiing as much as I possibly can, knitting sweaters, exploring vintage markets with friends, camping, and at the ocean.

Aliza Wolfe
University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hi! My name is Aliza (pronounced “Aleeza,” meaning happy and joyful in Hebrew, which is a pretty accurate depiction of my personality!). I was born in Washington, D.C., and grew up in Bethesda, MD, as well as abroad in Lima, Peru, and Buenos Aires, Argentina. I completed my undergraduate degree at Rice University in Houston, TX, where I was a four-year collegiate athlete. It is also where I met my Texas cowboy, Trevor!

I earned my medical degree at the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine in Biddeford, Maine, which is also where we got married and welcomed our first kiddo. And they say life pauses during medical training! We are beyond excited to be staying in New England and joining the Baystate OB/GYN family.

I was drawn to Baystate for its commitment to clinical excellence, education, and serving a diverse patient population. I am passionate about building meaningful relationships with my patients and feel incredibly honored to be part of such important and vulnerable moments in their lives. I was looking for an academic program deeply committed to addressing social determinants of health that would also allow me to continue my research on interpreter services and delivery complications, all of which I found at Baystate.

I truly love every aspect of OB/GYN. I am especially passionate about patient advocacy, improving equitable access to care, and treating pregnancy-related and pelvic pain using osteopathic manipulative medicine.

Outside of the hospital, you can find Trevor, Axel, Luz (our rescue pup), and me spending as much time outdoors as possible, whether playing sports, hiking, biking, or exploring local coffee shops and restaurants. Our home is always filled with music, good food, and lots of laughter. I also love cooking, baking, film photography, and traveling.

Gia Ciccolo
Ponce School of Medicine and Health Sciences

Hi my name is Gia! I am originally from Revere (known as ‘Reveah’), MA. I got my undergraduate education at Bucknell University as a Posse Scholar. I then pursued my Masters of Public Health with a concentration in Epidemiology at BU School of Public Health. I enrolled in the then Masters International program during which I was able to do a 2 year Peace Corp Service in conjunction with my MPH curriculum. I served in the Peace Corps from 2016-2018 in Chicamán, Guatemala. My service focused on the Maternal and Child Health Project, addressing gender inequities and working to improve poor maternal health outcomes. It was during this time that it became very clear to me that I wanted to pursue a career in medicine. For the next two years I worked in clinical research on social determinants of health in Boston and prepped my medical school application. I was lucky enough to land at Ponce Health Sciences University to study medicine in Puerto Rico. I am passionate about providing culturally competent care, specifically working with Spanish speaking and marginalized populations. I chose to come to Baystate because I truly got wonderful vibes from everyone I spoke to! I wanted to keep a strong connection with Spanish speaking patients and learn to practice in an environment alongside other social activists and where I am able to provide gender affirming care and ensure that reproductive rights of my patients are protected. I am so excited to delve in to all aspects of ObGyn here at Baystate!"

Grace Dipersio
University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hi there, my name is Grace! I am SO happy to be joining the team here at Baystate. I am from Derry, NH and went to the University of New Hampshire for my undergraduate degree. After a couple of gap years working as a phlebotomist and medical assistant at an OB/GYN practice, I went to medical school at the University of New England in Maine. I completed a rural track clerkship in my third year where I learned about providing healthcare in rural Maine. The staff and residents made me feel right at home when I completed a rotation here at Baystate in urogynecology during my 4th year of medical school. I am excited to learn more about all-encompassing & equitable reproductive healthcare, family planning, gynecological surgery, and, of course, obstetrical care during my training.

Outside of medicine, you can find me trying out every restaurant this area has to offer, making trips up and down the New England Coast, skiing in the winter, and spending time with my 4 siblings & parents, best friends, and my partner of 13 years.

Grace Martin
Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth

Hi! My name is Grace and I was born and raised in Macon, Georgia. For undergrad I moved across the country to attend Reed College in Portland, Oregon, where I majored in biology and studied stem cells in the retinal development of zebrafish for my undergraduate thesis work. I then moved back east to attend medical school at Dartmouth School of Medicine in New Hampshire.

I’m thrilled to be staying in New England right down the Connecticut River for residency at Baystate! I was first interested in the program because of the strong family planning training through the Ryan Program and the diverse patient population of Springfield and Western Mass. The more I saw of the program, the more I loved the warm and supportive culture and the faculty’s commitment to teaching.

Outside of medicine, I enjoy crocheting, sewing, thrifting clothes, and arranging flowers. I also love TV from comedy to drama to reality and am always looking for new recommendations! I’m looking forward to exploring the local swimming holes and finding the best walking trails in the area.

Sierra Rouse
Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine

Hi, my name is Sierra. I was born here at Baystate and grew up in Western Mass and Connecticut. I returned home for residency after many years of living all over the country with the military. I did my undergraduate education at the University of Washington and my medical school at Virginia Commonwealth University.

I fell in love with OBGYN because I love cool surgeries, long-term patient relationships and caring for women through some of the best and hardest times in life. Baystate was my #1 choice because of the supportive and team-oriented residency culture, family planning curriculum, and surgical volume. When I interviewed at Baystate, they wanted to know me as a person. As a nontraditional medical student, it was so important to me to go to a place that welcomed my lived experiences.

Residency has been a really cool experience so far. My favorite places to be are in the OR and delivering babies on L&D. Getting to connect with patients during these vulnerable and challenging moments is what makes it all worth it. I love the variety that OBGYN has to offer and plan to be a generalist. My primary interests are in family planning and community health.

Outside of medicine, I spend most of my time with my two kids. I enjoy spending time outside and have been to national parks all around the country. I am also an excellent home chef. I love to cook and to eat good food. If you need restaurant recommendations, I am your girl!

Emily Wooder
Vanderbilt University School of Medicine

Hello! I’m Emily, I am originally from Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. I moved across the continent and down to the States for undergrad at Columbia University in New York, where I studied biology and minored in economics. I then moved south again to Nashville, Tennessee for medical school. In medical school, I loved the combination of surgery and medicine within ob-gyn as well as the chance to be involved in such pivotal parts of patients' lives.

At Baystate, I was drawn to the combination of strong, well-rounded clinical training, with an emphasis on the social and political issues impacting our patients. I particularly valued the well-integrated family planning training here, having previously studied in a very restrictive state. Within ob-gyn, I am interested in high-risk pregnancy care, social determinants of health, care for LGBTQ+ patients, and medical education. I am excited to be part of a program that will allow me to explore all these areas and more throughout my residency, and do so alongside a group of passionate co-residents and faculty.

When I’m not working, I enjoy visiting bookstores (which I always convince myself is just to browse), reading, searching for new cafes and restaurants, and spending time outside. I’m looking forward to getting to know Western Mass these next four years!

Margaux Zimmerman
Boston University School of Medicine

Hi! My name is Margaux and I’m originally from Farmington, Connecticut, though I spent much of my childhood growing up in Belgium and France. I completed my undergraduate degree at Brown University and earned my medical degree from Boston University. I'm looking forward to continuing my training at Baystate as part of the OBGYN residency program.

I was drawn to Baystate for its strong emphasis on education, resident support, and wellness. The program’s Ryan Residency accreditation and robust family planning training also stood out to me, especially given my current interest in pursuing a fellowship in Complex Family Planning. It felt like the right fit for the kind of environment I was seeking—supportive, thoughtful, and well-rounded.

Outside of medicine, I enjoy playing Dungeons & Dragons, board game nights with friends, and spending time in the water—swimming and other aquatic activities are some of my favorites. I also love baking and taking care of my two forever-kittens, Sebastien and Socks.

Feel free to reach out with any questions about the program!

Guy Azriel, MD 
University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry

Hi! My name is Guy, and I am originally from Mission Viejo, CA. I completed my degree in Biotechnology from Rochester Institute of Technology, and my medical degree from University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, both in the Finger Lakes region of NY. I am so excited to make the move to Western Massachusetts to join the Baystate OBGYN Residency!

So much of what I hoped for in residency training came across during my interview day, all underscored by attention to quality in education and collegiality throughout the program. I saw this as soon as I logged on to the virtual pre-interview dinner, and I felt connected to the community present at Baystate. There is extensive interprofessional education, a Ryan program with opportunities to become involved in Family Planning training from the start of residency, all things I had hoped for in becoming a well-rounded OBGYN. While I am not yet sure what my future practice will look like, it was clear to me that Baystate would help me prepare for whatever it may hold!

Some of my favorite things to do include trying new and interesting restaurants, exploring the outdoors, Lindy Hop dancing, and running and hiking outdoors. When I am feeling less ambitious (or there is inclement weather), I like cooking, baking, and becoming absorbed into the latest movie or show from Marvel. Please reach out with any questions you might have!

Alexander Golden, DO 
University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine

Hello! Welcome to Baystate’s Department of OBGYN. My name is Alex. Although I was born just outside New York City, I spent a majority of my childhood growing up in New Jersey’s shore town of Barnegat. I completed my undergraduate education at Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey where I received a B.A. in Spanish and double-minor in biology and dance. In 2016, I moved to Austin, Texas where I worked with the Baylor, Scott & White Health system as a medical scribe prior to applying to medical school. I attained a master’s degree in biomedical sciences from Texas A&M University – College Station and completed my medical training in San Antonio, Texas at the University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine.

I am very excited to return to the northeast and train at an institution that embraces diversity, equity, and inclusion. I knew that Baystate was the program for me after sharing meaningful conversations with leadership and the residents during my interview. I have wanted to pursue OBGYN since my freshman year of college and have continued to develop what that could look like for me during and after residency. I hope to provide quality care to the Spanish-speaking population in addition to providing a safe space for members of the LGBTQ+ community to receive obstetric and gynecologic services.

Outside of medicine, I am interested in musical theatre and will absolutely be taking advantage of the proximity to Broadway and regional theaters. For over a decade, I was involved in competitive gymnastics and served as a USA Gymnastics-certified coach. I am also a cat dad to Versace. If I am not participating in a hot yoga class, you can find me tanning at the nearest beach.

I am thrilled to be working with the OBGYN team at Baystate and cannot wait to explore New England. Please feel free to contact me regarding any questions you may have about our program.

Tara Hebert, DO

Hi! My name is Tara and I’m originally from Central Massachusetts. For undergrad, I attended Boston College where I majored in Biology and minored in Irish Studies. Then I moved to Dublin, Ireland to pursue my MPH at University College Dublin before matriculating at University of New England for medical school. I am so excited to be heading back to Massachusetts and joining the Baystate family!

During my 4^th year of medical school, I had the opportunity to complete a urogynecology Sub-I at Baystate which helped me get a feel for the culture of the program and solidified my interest in OBGYN residency at Baystate.

Outside of medicine, I love to read, travel, and hand-knit chunky blankets. I can often be found curled up with a good book or listening to an audiobook on the Libby app. I also really love to get outside and hike and am looking forward to exploring Western Massachusetts. Please reach out if you have any questions at all and good luck with application season!

Isabel Smith, DO

Hey there, I'm Izzy! I'm from Maine and I got my undergraduate degree at Brandeis University, where I studied Biology and Gender and Sexuality Studies. I went to medical school on the coast of Maine, and when I wasn’t studying, I taught myself how to surf.

During a sub-I at Baystate, I was impressed by the supportiveness of the residents and attendings and the care they put into teaching, the diversity in the population and the pathology, and the strong family planning training. My partner is in the Anesthesia program at Baystate, and we were drawn to living in Western Mass with such great access to the outdoors. I am passionate about gender-affirming care and family planning, and I have an interest in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility.

Outside of the hospital, I'm usually at the rock-climbing gym, on my mountain bike, or in my kitchen trying a new recipe. I also love hot yoga, skiing, and hunting for deals at discount stores. I am so happy to be training at Baystate alongside wonderful people and near the beautiful mountains of New England!

Jane Waldron, DO

Hi! My name is Jane and I was born and raised in a small suburb outside of Los Angeles, California. I studied Environmental and Occupational Health, Biology, and Chemistry at Boise State University. After undergrad, I worked for UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine/ Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center as a clinical research assistant working primarily on GI cancers for a year before matriculating to medical school in South Carolina. I am so excited to be make my way to Massachusetts and become part of the Baystate family.

During my 4th year of medical school, I had the opportunity to do a rotation in Gynecology Oncology at Baystate which was a major factor in determining that Baystate was the place for me. The attendings and residents were all so welcoming and dedicated to teaching and the environment felt so supportive. By the time I ended my interview with Baystate, I knew that it would be the best place for me to train and give me the skills I need to be an exceptional OB/GYN.

In my free time I enjoy spending time with my cat Leon, reading, exploring local restaurants, hiking, cooking and baking. I can’t wait to start exploring western Massachusetts and to start my residency training!

Larsen Welsh, DO 
Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Carolinas Campus

Hi everyone, I’m Larsen! I am beyond excited to be joining such an incredible group of Ob/Gyn residents at Baystate. I grew up in Chadds Ford, Pennsylvania before moving to Austin, Texas to attend the University of Texas at Austin. I then moved to Fairbanks, Alaska and spent a year in the Last Frontier working for the Department of Defense and having my sled dog pull me around on my skis. I attended VCOM-Carolinas for medical school and fell in love with women’s health, endocrinology, and surgery. I feel so lucky to have matched at a program that cares deeply about complex social issues, delivering quality care to a diverse patient population, and providing a supportive environment conducive to resident wellness and growth.

Outside of medicine I love doing anything active outdoors—hiking, cross-country skiing, mountain biking. I love to walk; I would walk everywhere if I could! I also like to cook and bake bread. Fingers crossed that I keep my sourdough starter alive throughout residency. I am simply stoked to pursue a career in Ob/Gyn while exploring beautiful western Mass!

Angela Essa, MD 
UMass Chan Medical School

Hi! My name is Angela. I’m originally from Western Mass (about 30 minutes from Baystate). I studied Biology and Biochemistry at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, during which time I worked in a breast cancer research lab. This is what sparked my initial interest in women’s health. After graduating from college, I worked as a Clinical Research Coordinator at Massachusetts General Hospital studying the genetics of neuropsychiatric conditions. After working in Boston for 2 years, I completed my medical degree at UMass Chan Medical School. As a medical student, I pursued research investigating hypertension and cardiovascular disease in pregnancy, and how these conditions can influence maternal and fetal outcomes.

As a fourth-year medical student at UMass Chan, I completed a Maternal-Fetal Medicine rotation at Baystate. During my rotation, I was impressed by how dedicated the residents and faculty were to teaching and practicing evidence-based medicine. I immediately felt welcome by the team and knew I could find my home here! Other reasons why I love Baystate include 1.) the program’s strong dedication to providing full-spectrum reproductive healthcare, 2.) how the hospital serves an extremely diverse and high-risk patient population, and 3.) how medical students and other learners consistently rotate through the hospital.

My interests in Obstetrics and Gynecology include research, maternal-fetal medicine, and pediatric and adolescent gynecology. Outside of work, I love hiking, exploring restaurants and breweries with my partner, perfecting my homemade hummus recipe, and cuddling with my cat, Hamilton. I hope that you will consider Baystate for your training!

Nadia Kianfar, MD 
Frank H Netter MD School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University

Welcome everyone, I’m Nadia! I was born and raised in Framingham, MA, went to UMass Amherst for undergrad, and worked as a research coordinator at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston for 2 years before matriculating to medical school in CT, and I am so excited to be coming back to Massachusetts!

I had the wonderful opportunity to do a rotation in Family Planning and Contraception at Baystate doing the fall of my 4th year, and this really helped me decide that Baystate was the place for me! All of the residents and attending were so kind and were genuinely excited to teach and see me learn. My top priorities when applying for residencies were training at a Ryan program, an academic center so that I can continue to grow as a teacher, and a program that truly felt like a family - and Baystate it is! Baystate was also an ideal location to be closer to my family and for my husband who is finishing up his residency in Worcester.

Outside of medicine, I enjoy spending time with my family, friends, and husband enjoying nature and hiking as much as possible. Indoors, I love spin classes, baking desserts, and manifesting my dream home (aka watching a lot of HGTV). Also super excited to become best friends with all of my co-residents and their furry pals!

I am really looking forward to re-exploring Western MA and showing my husband around the area where I went to college. Happy to answer questions, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Kaeli Chesley, MD 
Wake Forest University School of Medicine

Hello! My name is Kaeli, and I am originally from Albuquerque, New Mexico. I earned my bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from the University of New Mexico and completed medical school at the Wake Forest University School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. I am excited to be a part of the Baystate family and to serve the communities of Western Massachusetts!

When I was looking for a residency program, I ultimately wanted a program that felt like a family while providing me with a strong clinical education. During my interview day, the sense of camaraderie and friendship among the residents was palpable, and everyone was kind and welcoming. Beyond that, it was evident that the program had a dedication to resident learning and wellness, a collaborative and supportive atmosphere, a commitment to serve underserved populations, and opportunities for residents to be educators and advocates. As I got to the end of my interview trail, I knew that Baystate was where I wanted to train and develop the skills I needed to be an exceptional Ob/Gyn.

In my spare time, my favorite things to do include baking, cooking, crafting, and discovering new restaurants. I also love to travel, watch MLB baseball games, explore the outdoors, and listen to my favorite podcast or musical theater playlists.

I consider myself fortunate to be able to train at this exceptional program with supportive residents and well-respected faculty. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions!

Kelly Robertson, MD 
UMass Chan Medical School

Hi everyone, I’m Kelly! I grew up on Cape Cod in Barnstable, MA. I went to UMass Amherst for undergrad and had my first interaction with Baystate when fundraising for their children’s hospital through Dance Marathon and transporting patients there as an EMT. I became passionate about reproductive health and healthcare access, and I was drawn towards the field of ObGyn. I went to medical school at UMass Med in Worcester, and now I’m so excited to move back to Western Mass and join the Baystate ObGyn family!

I had the opportunity to do Sub-I’s at Baystate in Reproductive Endocrinology/Infertility (REI) and Family Planning, where I fell in love with the culture of the program. Everyone was so welcoming, supportive, and clearly enjoyed working with each other. I was also drawn to Baystate’s program for its robust family planning education, long-standing REI program, and opportunity to learn from nurse midwives.

In my free time I love reading murder mysteries, crocheting blankets and stuffed animals (a Covid hobby I picked up that is now a de-stressing staple in my life!), heading to the Cape to see family and spend time at the beach, and trying out new restaurants and breweries with friends! I am also interested in global health and I love to travel. I try to visit the local botanical garden everywhere I go! Feel free to reach out with any questions about Baystate or living in Western Mass, and good luck!

Bethany Spracher, DO 
Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine-Virginia Campus

Hi! My name is Bethany, and I’m so excited to be part of the Baystate Ob/Gyn team! I’m originally from a small town in the southern part of West Virginia called Bluefield. Growing up, I loved going to the Virginia Tech football games (Go Hokies!), pioneer camp, and Dolly Parton’s Dollywood theme park was my favorite little getaway. I attended Virginia Tech for undergrad, VCOM/Bluefield University for my Master’s degree, and VCOM-Virginia for medical school. Needless to say, I am excited to spread my wings outside of southwest VA and explore a new area. I had an immediate connection with the Baystate faculty and residents on interview day and knew it would be a perfect match! I successfully couples matched with my boyfriend, Ty, an internal medicine resident. We’re so excited to make the big move up to Massachusetts!

When I’m not working or sleeping, Ty and I like to explore the local coffee shops, restaurants, and go for outdoor walks. We sometimes attempt to walk our tabby cat Stanley Hudson, but like his namesake from The Office, he doesn’t care much for walks or even human interaction. I always keep the TV show Friends on a loop, love listening to podcasts, and am proudly one of Taylor Swift’s top listeners.

I fell in love with Ob/Gyn during clinical rotations and am so excited to start my residency journey in the best specialty! I am passionate about women’s health and advocacy; and the southerner in me loves sitting and chatting with my patients. I’m excited to be living in the northeast and only time will tell how much of my southern accent will be taken over by a Massachusetts one! Please feel free to contact me with any questions!

Padmaja Sundaram, MD 
Albany Medical College

My name is Padmaja Sundaram, and I'm thrilled to join the OBGYN family here. I was born and initially raised in Tamil Nadu, India, which laid the foundation for my journey into medicine. I grew up in Irvine, California, then trekked to the East Coast to go to undergrad at Siena College. After completing my undergraduate studies, I embarked on the next phase of my education at a medical school in Albany, New York.

From the very beginning, OBGYN captured my heart. It's the perfect blend of surgery, building long-term patient relationships, and advocating for women's health on multiple fronts. Throughout my medical school years, I witnessed the profound impact OBGYN specialists have on the lives of individuals and communities, solidifying my commitment to this field.

Outside the hospital, my interests reflect the colorful tapestry of my personality. Whether I'm singing Indian melodies, experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen (sometimes with unintended char marks), exploring nature through hikes and waterfall adventures, or losing myself in the rhythm of dance, I approach life with boundless enthusiasm and curiosity.

Now, as I begin this new chapter as an intern resident, I'm eager to bring my dedication to providing holistic, compassionate care to every patient I encounter. With my diverse interests and unwavering spirit, I'm excited to contribute to the OBGYN team and make a meaningful difference in the lives of women under our care.

Chloe Benichou, DO
Medical School: University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth - Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: Crown OBGYN, South Shore Hospital, Weymouth, MA

Kelsey Carman, MD
Medical School: University of Michigan Medical School
Post-Graduate Position: Baystate OBGYN (BOGG), Baystate Medical Center, Springfield, MA

Samantha Haefner, MD
Medical School: University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health
Post-Graduate Position: Aurora BayCare Medical Center, Green Bay, WI

Megan Murnane, MD
Medical School: Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland School of Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: Boston Medical Center/Boston University, Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA

Jahel Santacruz, MD
Medical School: Universidad Internacional del Ecuador Facultad de Ciencias Médicas y de la Salud
Post-Graduate Position: Urogynecology Fellowship, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM

Bradley Schroeder, DO
Medical School: Marian University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: Urogynecology and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery Fellowship, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN

Kelsey Bertelsen, DO
Medical School: Des Moines University College Osteopathic Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: Generalist HealthPartners in Coon Rapids, MN

Sarah Dunalewicz, DO
Medical School:Kansas City University of Medicine & Biosciences College of Osteopathic Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: Generalist at South Denver Ob/Gyn

Sharon Geerts, DO
Medical School: University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: Generalist at Atrius Health in Boston, MA

Madyson Noonan, DO
Medical School: University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: Generalist at Harbor Medical Associates, Pembroke MA

Jennifer Shields, MD
Medical School: George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences
Post-Graduate Position: Generalist Burlington OB/GYN Associates, in Burlington, MA

Rebecca Barbaresso, DO
Medical School: Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: Minimally Invasive Gynecologic Surgery Fellowship, University of Louisville, Kentucky

Tara Formisano, DO
Medical School: University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: TBD

Madison McGahan, DO
Medical School: New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: Private practice, Baystate Ob/Gyn, Springfield, MA

Brittany Novak, MD
Medical School: University of Massachusetts Medical School
Post-Graduate Position: Private practice, WomanCare at NCH, Chicago, IL

Lauren Smith, MD
Medical School: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: Corewell Health, Grand Rapids, MI.

Stephanie Smith, DO
Medical School: Western University of Health Sciences/College of Osteopathic Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: Kaiser Permanente, San Diego, CA

Elizabeth Baker, MD
Medical School: University of South Carolina School of Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: Department of Ob/Gyn, UnityPoint Health, Waterloo, IA

Tiffany Corlin, MD
Medical School: Tufts University School of Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: Maternal-Fetal Medicine fellowship, University of Minnesota

Alecia Hagman, DO
Medical School: University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: Completing her service with the United States Air Force, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Anchorage, AL

Shiva Niakan, DO
Medical School: Western University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific
Post-Graduate Position: Breast Oncology Fellowship, UMass Chan Medical School-Baystate, Springfield, MA

Kelsey Schmidt, MD
Medical School: Central Michigan University College of Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: Lower Anogenital Screening and Treatment Fellowship, Emory University, Atlanta, GA

Ravneet Thind, DO
Medical School: Touro University College of Osteopathic Medicine, California
Post-Graduate Position: Ob/Gyn Department, St. Agnes Medical Center, Fresno, CA

Nandi Chihombori-Quao, MD
Medical School: University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: Private Practice, Associates Women’s Health Specialists, Waterbury, CT

Danielle Finch, DO
Medical School: Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: Private Practice, Connecticut Costal Ob/Gyn, New Haven, CT

Catherine Hill-Verrochi, DO
Medical School: University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: Private Practice, Mid Coast Medical Group, Brunswick, ME

Lauren Jammallo, MD
Medical School: Tufts University School of Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: 3 year Female and Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery Fellowship, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA

Heather Love, MD
Medical School: Tufts University School of Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: Private Practice, Burlington Ob/Gyn Associates, Burlington, MA

Taieri McKenzie, MD
Medical School: Tufts University School of Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: Private Practice, Perinatal Associates of Greater Baltimore Medical Center, Baltimore, MD

Sophia Bachilova, MD
Medical School: McGill University Faculty of Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: 2 year Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility fellowship, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Sami Backley, MD
Medical School: Royal College of Surgeons of Ireland School of Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: 3 year Maternal-Fetal Medicine fellowship, University of Texas Health Center, Houston, TX

Laurie Doyon, DO
Medical School: University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: Hospital practice, St. Charles Medical Group, St. Charles Health System, Bend, OR

Sarah Nathan, MD
Medical School: Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: Private practice, Women’s Care Group, Oak Lawn, IL

Keith Reisinger-Kindle, DO, MPH
Medical School: Touro University Nevada College of Osteopathic Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: Ob/Gyn Faculty, Wright State University, Dayton, OH

March Thompson, MD
Medical School: Trinity College Dublin School of Medicine
Post-Graduate Position: Private practice of Baystate Ob/Gyn Group, Inc. Springfield, MA