Residency
Message from the Chief Residents
Academic Year Theme: Community Impact, Resident Advocacy and Leadership
The Department of Family Medicine at the University of Mississippi Medical Center is dedicated to improving the health of individuals, families, and communities across Mississippi through comprehensive, patient-centered care, education, and service. As Chief Residents, Rachel Royston and Charles Adedara, we are honored to represent a program that prepares family physicians to lead with clinical excellence, integrity, and a deep commitment to those we serve.
Education is central to our mission. Our residents actively engage in teaching and mentorship, working alongside medical students and faculty across inpatient and outpatient settings. We view education not only as a responsibility, but as a cornerstone of professional growth. Through collaboration, scholarship, and mentorship, we strive to develop thoughtful physicians who embody the core values of family medicine and a lifelong commitment to learning.
We are equally committed to fostering a culture grounded in respect, accountability, and compassion. Family medicine is built on relationships, and we carry this principle into both patient care and our interactions with one another. A supportive and inclusive learning environment—where residents feel valued and heard—is essential to both professional development and the delivery of high-quality care.
One of the defining strengths of our program is its sense of community. We believe exceptional physicians are trained in environments that prioritize teamwork, collaboration, and mutual support. Our residents consistently show up for one another—on demanding clinical services, in shared learning spaces, and during challenging moments. While residency is rigorous, at UMMC it is shaped by a culture of resilience, accountability, and collective success.
This academic year, we are focused on strengthening our community impact, advancing resident advocacy, and cultivating leadership. We are committed to amplifying resident voices, supporting professional growth, and encouraging meaningful engagement with the communities we serve. Through these efforts, we aim to prepare our residents not only for clinical excellence, but also for leadership within healthcare systems and communities throughout Mississippi.
Above all, our goal is to ensure that every resident feels supported, empowered, and equipped to thrive. We are grateful for the opportunity to serve as Chief Residents and to work alongside colleagues who exemplify the mission and values of our department.
Rachel and Charles
Chief Residents, AY 2026-2027
Family Medicine, UMMC