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Student Interest Groups

Below is a list of active Student Interest Groups. To request a new Interest Group, contact the SOM Office of Student Affairs for a Student Interest Group Registration Form.

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American Cancer Society at UMMC

Purpose: Our purpose is to empower and inspire medical students of all interests by providing them with meaningful volunteering and fundraising opportunities related to ACS efforts like the Hope Lodge and Relay for Life, as well as local initiatives. We are committed to fostering a sense of community, compassion, and service in future healthcare professionals, enabling them to give back to the Jackson community, gain invaluable experience, and contribute to causes that align with their passions in medicine. Through our initiatives, we aim to cultivate a network of medical students dedicated to making a positive impact in healthcare.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Anna Katherine Herrington Thomas
• Vice President: Zach Flattmann
• Secretary: Collin Crawson
• Treasurer: Lydia Lee
• ACS Ambassador: Alexandra Ladner
• Hope Lodge Ambassador: Logan Thomas
• Public Health Coordinator: Sydney Reeves
• Internal Affairs: Alyssa Kate Morgigno
• Public Relations: Rachael Roberts
• Merchandise: Aaron Graves
• Event Coordinators:
  • Jordan Gill
  • Addie O'Brian
• M2 Representative: Nivedha Kosalram

Advisors:

• Dr. Amanda Strobel
• Dr. Erin Norcross

American Physician Scientists Association Local Chapter

Purpose: The UMMC APSA Local Chapter's mission is to support and empower future physician-scientists through networking, mentorship, research engagement, and professional development. We aim to foster a collaborative community dedicated to advancing careers at the intersection of science and medicine.

2025-2026 Officers:

• President: Caroline Sit
• Vice President: Madison Hansen
• Secretary: Hayley Murphy
• Treasurer: Assata Demyers

Advisor: Dr. Peter Mittwede

Anesthesiology Interest Group (AIG)

Purpose: The purpose of the Anesthesiology Interest Group, University of Mississippi School of Medicine Chapter, is to provide education and guidance to the medical students of UMMC in their journey to becoming Anesthesiologists. To serve as a foundation for the bridge between faculty and student, creating networks to ensure the field of Anesthesiology prospers as an organization.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Josuf Turnipseed
• Vice President: Maddie Beth de Gruiter
• Secretary: Coleman Tate
• Treasurer: Caroline Slay
• ASA Delegate: Rhea Arora
• SIM Lab Coordinator: Cooper Hathaway
• Research Coordinator: Conner Morgan
• Social Media Chair: Connor Henderson
• M4 Rep: Mary Ellen Owings
• M3 Rep: Jeffrey Wang
• M2 Rep: Mick Kelly

Advisors:

• Dr. Michelle Sheth
• Dr. Latoya Mason 

Association of Women Surgeons (AWS)

Purpose: To encourage female medical students to pursue a career in surgery, to provide surgical education to all genders, and to engage in clinical outreach with laypeople.

2025-2026 Officers:

• President: Emily Tomey-Meals
• Vice President: Anna Renfroe
• Secretary: Brooklyn Howe
• Treasurer: Maggie Jackson
• Chapter Historian: Kendall Pitre
• Trauma Night Coordinator: Ashton Swader
• Faculty Liaison: Jasmine Calisette
• Resource Manager: Haley Rooks
• Outreach Coordinator: Allyson
• M1 Representatives: TBD

Advisors:

• Dr. Kelsey Koch

Broadening Reach in Medicine (BRiM)

Purpose: The purpose of the BRiM is to increase the number of students who successfully gain admission, matriculate, and complete graduate programs related to health care professions, specifically Medicine.

2025-2026 Officers:

• President: Tiwaniya Tyler
• Vice President: Morgan Williams
• Secretary: Jasmine Butler
• Treasurer: Jerrian Reedy
• Social Media Chair: Monia Zein
• M4 Representative: Tyrikus Hayes
• M3 Representative: Taylor Jefferson
• M2 Representative: Darren Cook
• M1 Representative: Alexisa Woodard

Advisor: Dr. Demondes Haynes

Cardiothoracic Surgery Interest Group

Purpose: The purpose of the Cardiothoracic Surgery Interest Group is to support increasing the talent pool of students considering the field. We hope to provide students with a guide to help exposure to the field, mentorship, and garner curiosity in cardiothoracic surgery.

2025-2026 Officers:

• President: Lillian Sisson
• Vice President: Grace Howell
• Secretary: Manshi Patel
• Treasurer: Dave Myatt

Advisors:

• Dr. Pierre de Delva

Cardiovascular Interest Group

Purpose: The purpose of the Cardiovascular Interest Group is to introduce students to the fields of cardiology, cardiothoracic surgery, and vascular surgery and demonstrate how these fields work closely together to better patient outcomes. Students will be introduced to surgeons and cardiologists who will speak on interesting cases and personal experiences in their field. UMMC fellows will be invited to speak on ways for students to better their applications and understand the pathways to each subspecialty. The hope is to prepare students from an early point in their medical school curriculum to both make an informed decision on their career path and have the tools necessary to achieve their goals.

2025-2026 Officers:

• President: Chris Hood
• Vice President: Addison Stevens
• Secretary: Carson Spruiell
• M4 Representative: Nazm Rahat
• M3 Representative: Alka Ghadiyaram
• M2 Representative: Eli Hannon

Advisor: Dr. Mike McMullan

Club Med

Purpose: To promote communication among members and faculty. To obtain information about careers in internal medicine. To promote the profession of internal medicine. To serve the medical school and campus public. To promote student membership in the American College of Physicians (ACP).

2025-2026 Officers:

• President: Nelson Howell
• President-Elect: Taylor South
• Vice President: Blake Waldrip
• Secretary: Sabrina Walia
• Treasurer: Tyler Holland
• Special Events Director: Carson Spruiell
• Community Service Chair: Dave Myatt
• Social Media Chair: Anna Katherine Herrington Thomas
• Shadowing Chair: Nicki Lawson
• ACP Recruitment Chair: Daniel Kerr
• M4 Representative: Dylan Usry
• M3 Representatives:
  • Stephen Azar
  • Camille Martin
• M2 Representatives:
  • Eli Hannon
  • Daniel Kerr

Advisor: Dr. Savannah Duckworth

Dermatology Interest Group (DIG) 

Purpose: To foster interest in dermatology as a career among students, connect students with dermatology faculty and residents as mentors, and educate students about dermatological conditions.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Morgan Claire Bell
• Vice President: Audrey Eckerson
• Secretary: Lillian Pham
• Education and Research Chair: Josh Jennings
• Mentorship Chair: Akshaya Vijayasankar
• Outreach Co-Chairs:
  • Makenzie Havard
  • Ava Ketner
• Social Media Chair: Ramya Sarna
• M3 Representative: Sara Matheson
• M2 Representative: Matusala Youhannes

Advisor: Dr. Jeremy Jackson

Dose of Prose 

Purpose: To provide a welcoming space for students to step away from the demands of medical school and come together through a shared passion for reading. This club creates an environment where students can explore and discuss a wide range of literature, with an emphasis on celebrating all genres so that every interest is represented and valued. By offering a community where students can express interests beyond medicine, the classroom, and the hospital, Dose of Prose encourages reflection and reconnection with parts of themselves outside of their training. At the same time, it fosters meaningful connections across all classes, highlighting how much students have in common beyond their roles in medicine.

2026-2027 Officers:

• Co-Presidents:
  • Micah Diener
  • Caroline Slay
• Secretary: Erin Goodman
• Events Coordinator: Piper Lind

Advisor: Dr. Sharon Douglas

Emergency Medicine Interest Group (EMIG)

Purpose: To foster interest and involvement in Emergency Medicine.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Alex Turner
• Vice President: Skip Corales
• Treasurer: Owen Barry
• Sim Lab Coordinators:
  • Collin Hautle
  • McKenzie House
• M2 Representatives:
  • Riley Olier
  • Sydney Reaves
• M3 Representatives:
  • Michael Merchant
  • Noah Roberts
• M4 Representatives:
  • Allegra Latimer
  • Michael Pitts

Advisor: Dr. Joshua Norman

Family Medicine

Purpose: To provide medical students opportunities of engagement in the field of family medicine; to network among fellow students interested in primary care; to offer opportunities of engagement in various philanthropic efforts in our community; to further expand clinic skills through workshops and learning opportunities and to bolster the interest of family medicine among students.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Beau Azar
• Vice President: Khadeejah Franklin
• Secretary: William Sutton
• Treasurer: Exa Havard
• Chapter Engagement Officer: Emily Rigney
• Community Service Chair: Aubrey Claire Norris
• Student Liason of MAFP: Bailey Lynch
• M3 Representative: Sukhbir Sohal
• M2 Representative: Anderson Rings

Advisor: Dr. Sheree Melton

Financial Literacy for Physicians

Purpose: The UMMC Financial Literacy for Physicians Interest Group empowers medical students with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to achieve financial success throughout their medical careers. While financial literacy is essential for everyone, medical students face unique financial challenges that require specialized guidance. From budgeting during school and residency to managing student loan debt and negotiating physician compensation, these crucial topics are often overlooked in standard curricula. The Financial Literacy Interest Group bridges these gaps by fostering peer discussions and hosting expert-led educational sessions. We invite you to join us in building a financially informed medical community and leveraging these valuable resources to supplement your medical education.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Conner Morgan
• Vice President: Cooper Hathaway
• Secretary: Nickolas Murray
• Social Media Chair: Dylan McClain
• M3 Representative: Skip Corales
• M2 Representative: Shane Houston

Advisor: Dr. Charles Grogan

First Generation Medical Students

Purpose: Our goal is to create a supportive community where incoming FGLI students can find mentorship, guidance, and encouragement. Additionally, upperclass students have the opportunity to give back by helping the
next generation navigate medical school. This group will serve as a space where FGLI students can recognize their full potential and gain the tools needed to succeed. Some of the topics we will address include the culture shock of medical school, building professional networks, preparations for residency, and provide resources to support mental well-being. Beyond mentorship and peer support, this group encourages collaboration with students and faculty from all backgrounds to foster a greater understanding of the strengths and perspectives FGLI students bring to medicine. By working together, we can help create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all students as they embark on their medical careers.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Courtney Detwiler
• Vice President: McKayla Rankin
• Secretary: Savannah White

Advisor: Dr. Amanda Rice

Gastroenterology Student Interest Group

Purpose: To promote and provide exposure to the field of gastroenterology through educational lecture/meetings and shadowing opportunities to medical students.

2025-2026 Officers:

• President: Parker Jones
• Vice President: Megan Dallas
• Secretary: Timothy Martin
• Treasurer: Sunny Patel

Advisor: Dr. Nathan Tullos

Geriatrics Interest Group

Purpose: This group seeks to expose medical students to the specific needs of geriatric patients in the context of an aging population. Along with general education and awareness, we intend to promote research projects, networking, and advocacy, along with community service opportunities within geriatric medicine.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Emory Ware
• Vice President: Caroline Kercheval
• Secretary: Mallory Williams

Advisors:

• Dr. Chloe Kilman
• Dr. Channing Burnett

Golf in Medicine Interest Group

Purpose: To bridge the relationships between medical school classes and provide opportunities outside the SOM to discuss the field of medicine centered around a common interest.

2025-2026 Officers:

• President: Wes Miller
• Vice President: Barnes Benton
• Secretary: Morgan Washam
• Treasurer: Tal Redhead
• Social Media: David Thaggard
• Graphic Design: Dale Stratton
• M3 Representative: Joseph Price
• M2 Representative: Collin Hautle
• M1 Representative: Baileigh Miller

Advisor: Dr. John Winscott

Health Career Collaborative (HCC)

Purpose: HCC is designed to bring to life the possibilities of further studies and careers in medicine and the allied health sciences. HCC gives an exciting link between high school students and medical students and other medical professionals.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Jerrian Reedy
• Vice President: Dominick Brown
• Secretary: Taylor Lampkin
• Curriculum Coordinator: Shakyra Beasley

Advisors:

• Dr. Praise Matemavi
• Dr. Dan Coleman

Healthy Inside and Out

Purpose:  The purpose of our organization is to prioritize healthy living in the Jackson, MS, area by volunteering in the community and educating individuals about preventative health practices. Through community outreach, health education, health screenings, and service opportunities, we aim to empower individuals and families to make healthier choices and promote longer, healthier lives.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Madison Ferris
• Vice President: Kaitlyn Anderson
• Community Outreach: Michael Pitts
• Social Media: Parker Jones

Advisor: Dr. Jarrett Morgan

HeART in Medicine

Purpose: Medical school can be an incredibly stressful and demanding experience, often leaving little time to pursue artistic hobbies. Yet research consistently shows that creative expression plays a significant role in supporting mental and emotional well-being. HeART of Medicine aims to help students reconnect with these creative outlets through a variety of initiatives. These include hosting an annual spring virtual art competition, where medical students can submit artwork of all forms-such as dance, writing, singing, photography, and painting-for recognition and prizes. We also strive to highlight other artistic opportunities for medical students, such as participating in the UMMC Healing Arts program and volunteering at the Mississippi Museum of Art.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Rhea Arora
• M2 Representative: Alli Dupree
• M2 Representative: Savannah White
• M2 Representative: Jessica Jacob

Advisors:

• Dr. Loretta Jackson
• Dr. Lakshmi Kurnutala

High Value Care Student Interest Group

Purpose: To provide interactive, clinical education regarding improving patient health, avoiding harms, and eliminating wasteful practices throughout the healthcare system. Further, to provide unique examples of approaches to affordable healthcare through the appropriate use of diagnostic testing and treatments.

2025-2026 Officers:

• Presidents:
  • Camille Couey
  • Micaela Shields
• Vice President: Logan Lamar
• Secretary: Camille Martin
• Treasurer: John Hollis Tackett
• Faculty Liaison: Preston McWilliams
• M3 Representative: Matt Burke

Advisor: Dr. Brett Jeter

Hope Lodge Ambassadors

Purpose: To facilitate an enjoyable experience for guests utilizing the Hope Lodge while receiving cancer treatment by organizing consistent service and fundraising opportunities.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Anna Lee Bullock
• Vice President: Luke Losordo
• Secretary: Jamison Helton
• Treasurer: Hayden Tucker
• Social Media Coordinator: Mary Ellen Owings
• Community Outreach Coordinator: Shelby Van
• M3 Representative: Erin Matthews
• M2 Representative: Ann Parker Baldwin

Advisors:

• Dr. Carrie Wynn
• Dr. Kelly Wilkinson

Internal Medicine and Pediatrics (MPIG)

Purpose: The Med-Peds interest group seeks to advance UMMC Medical students' knowledge in the field and specialty of internal medicine/pediatrics (Med-Peds), give opportunities for medical students to work with Med-Peds residents in clinical and community service settings and provide guidance, knowledge and resources for medical students applying to Med-Peds residencies.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Austin Lane
• Vice President: Timothy Martin
• Secretary: Russ Upton
• Treasurer: Aaron Goldman
• Community Service Chair: Lexi Montpelier
• Social Media Chair: Erin Goodman
• M3 Representative: Emory Ware
• M2 Representative: Alexis Richardson

Advisor: TBD

Interventional Radiology Interest Group

Purpose: The Interventional Radiology Interest Group (IRIG) was created to increase medical student interest and awareness of interventional radiology and prepare students applying to the field of interventional radiology.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Alex Facundus
• Vice President: Jacob Hearin
• Secretary: Aaron Kwag
• Shadowing Coordinator: Riyan Siddiqui
• Representatives:
  • Sagar Keriwala
  • Sukhbir Sohal

Advisor: Dr. Garth Campbell

Jackson Free Clinic (JFC)

2025-2026 Officers:

• Chief Operations Officer, Chair of Executive Board: Chris Hood
• Chief Financial Officer: Chanu Cherukuri
• Chief Education Officer: Akshaya Vijayasankar
• Chief Outreach Officer: Natasha Burrell
• Chief Specialty Services Officer: Eric Humphries

Medical Director: Dr. James Anthony Cloy

Latino Medical Student Association - UMMC Chapter

Purpose: The purpose of LMSA UMMC chapter is to promote the interests and support of those students who identify themselves as underrepresented minority students of the University of Mississippi Medical Center through social, cultural, educational, political, and other activities.

2025-2026 Officers:

• President: David Uribe Sanchez
• Vice President: Nancy Duarte-Sanchez
• Secretary: TBD
• Treasurer: TBD

Advisor: Dr. Licy Yanes Cardozo

Medical Genetics

Purpose:  This group serves to educate medical students on Medical Genetics. We aim to provide opportunities to students to participate in activities related to the field of Medical Genetics, including, but not limited to: arranged shadowing, research, faculty/staff seminars, discussions and/or panels, patient panels, and community outreach.

2026-2027 Officers:

• Presidents:
  • Conner Ivey
  • Sydney Reaves
• Vice President: Barrett Aldridge
• Treasurer: Gavin Bourgeois
• Community Outreach Coordinator: Julie Luke
• Rare Disease Day Coordinator: Molly Samonds

Advisor: Dr. Laura Hendon

Medical Spanish Interest Group 

Purpose: To create a fun environment for medical students to learn and speak Spanish with an emphasis on its use within a clinical setting.

2025-2026 Officers:

• President: Jamey Cobb Martin
• Vice President: Mila Patino
• Secretary: Ronald McCall
• Treasurer: Russ Upton
• Event Coordinators:
  • Reid Bain
  • Kamal Kota
• M4 Representative: Priya Patel
• M3 Representative: Taylor South
• M2 Representative: Jack Loome

Advisor: Dr. Dakota Bibbs

Military In Medicine

Purpose: To show the roles and opportunities of being a Doctor in the Military.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Braden Odem
• Vice President: Ty Clardy
• Secretary: Trey White

Advisor: Dr. Chester Shermer

Neonatology Interest Group 

Purpose: The Neonatology Interest Group aims to inspire and engage medical students by increasing awareness of the neonatology specialty and providing early exposure to this unique and rewarding field. Through a combination of shadowing opportunities, specialty-focused lectures, procedural simulations, and professional mentoring, the group seeks to cultivate a passion for neonatal medicine. By connecting students with experienced neonatologists and offering hands-on experiences, the group helps students explore the unique challenges and rewards of caring for critically ill newborns. Our goal is to broaden students' perspectives on career possibilities and equip them with valuable skills and knowledge to guide their future in medicine.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Karen Wong
• Vice President: Makala Garner
• Secretary: Rylee Story
• Social Media Chair: Andrea Bonner

Advisors:

• Dr. Sumana Ramarao

Neurosurgery Interest Group 

Purpose: To garner and support interest in the Neurological Surgery Specialty for medical students.

2025-2026 Officers:

• President: Evan Bowen
• Vice President: Olivia Patch
• M2 Representative: Alexandra Cullom

Advisors:

• Dr. Joaquin Hidolgo
• Dr. Zach Smalley
• Alexandra Waterbury

OB-GYN Student Interest Group

Purpose: The OB-GYN student interest group serves to foster an interest in the field and to facilitate a better understanding of the practice and its subspecialties. This will be achieved through professional contacts, exposure to clinical experience, and interaction with the department. The OB-GYN interest group will strive to meet the interests and needs of all medical students at UMMC who are interested in a career in this field.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Isabella Webb
• Vice President: Maggie Jo Creekmore
• Secretary: Abbygail Green
• Treasurer: Gabrielle Morris
• Advocacy Chair: Ashya Richardson
• ACOG Representative: Madison Burton
• Fundraising Co-Chairs:
  • Makala Garner
  • Andrea Milton
• Volunteer Coordinators:
  • Kaylen Taylor
  • Francesca Patawaran
  • Amelia Ladner
• Events Coordinators:
  • Allie Dupree
  • Caden Cutshall
• Social Media Coordinator: Carson Kitchens
• Meeting Coordinators:
  • Jordan Gill
  • Madeline Kelly
• Research Liaison: Addie OBrian
• M4 Representative: Paige Hooker
• M3 Representative: Chloe Ward
• M2 Representative

Advisor: Dr. Kaitlyn Mize-Burnett

Ophthalmology Interest Group (OIG)

Purpose: To provide exposure and resources of the field of ophthalmology to interested medical students.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Anna Smith
• Vice President: Joseph Price
• Secretary: Graham Roberson
• Philanthropy Chair: Tal Redhead
• Research Chair: Victor Yen
• M4 Representative: Nathan Thomas
• M3 Representative: Russ Upton
• M2 Representative: Christopher Luffey

Advisors:

• Dr. Taylor Coleman

Orthopaedic Preparation Program (OPP) 

Purpose: This group was created to engage students interested in orthopaedic surgery. Meeting topics consist of introduction to orthopaedics, how to get involved in research, how to stand out as a medical student, away rotation tips, etc. We also offer mentorship, service opportunities, and orthopaedic skills workshops.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: JD West
• Vice President: Holman Taylor
• Secretary: Hayden Sikes
• Treasurer: Tristan Tigrett
• Event Coordinator: Jonathan Riley
• Research Chair: Aswin Arunachalam
• M2 Class Representative: Zavier Magee

Advisors:

• Dr. Hamdi Sukkarieh

Pathology Interest Group

Purpose: To expose students to Pathology and foster academic excellence, research opportunities, and networking with the larger Pathology Community. This organization is here to reveal how future clinicians can properly consult the Department of Pathology and to create passionate Pathology residency applicants. 

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Leah Brown
• Vice President: Barrett Aldridge
• Secretary: Bilal Ahmed
• Treasurer: McKayla Rankin

Advisors:

• Dr. Ramya Velagapudi

Pediatric Interest Group

Purpose: Aims to provide medical students with exposure to pediatrics through community service, monthly speakers, and shadowing/hands-on procedural events.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Rachael Roberts
• Vice President: Collin Crawson
• Secretary: Aaron Graves
• Treasurer: Logan Hariel
• Community Outreach Co-Chairs: 
  • Alyson Raper
  • Alex Reichle
  • Taylor Lampkin
• Batson Liaison: Morgan McCray
• AAP Representative: Simone Weatherspoon

Advisor: Dr. Claire Gilliam 

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Interest Group 

Purpose: To provide exposure and insight into the field of PM&R for medical students in an effort to build understanding and interest in the specialty.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Tyler Trussell
• Vice President: Camille Couey
• M3 Representative: Victor Yen
• M2 Representative: Jada King

Advisors:

• Dr. Hyung Kim

Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Interest Group 

Purpose: The goal of the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Interest Group is to expose students early in their medical education to plastic and reconstructive surgery. Our goal is to provide knowledge about plastic surgery, which includes craniofacial, hand, microsurgery, and aesthetics. We additionally aim to facilitate interactions between students, residents, and faculty in order to create opportunities for mentorship and research.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: TBD
• Vice President: TBD
• Secretary: TBD
• Research Liaison: TBD
• M2 Representative: TBD
• M1 Representative: TBD

Advisors:

• Dr. Laura Humphries

Preventive Medicine Interest Group

Purpose: Our Preventive Medicine Interest Group serves as a hub for medical students passionate about shifting healthcare paradigms from treatment to prevention. We hope to create opportunities for students to explore the multifaceted discipline of preventive medicine through educational workshops, community outreach, research initiatives, and networking with specialists. By focusing on primary prevention strategies, early detection methods, and population health management, we aim to equip future physicians with the knowledge and skills to address health issues before they develop into disease states. Our organization bridges the gap between traditional medical education and the growing demand for prevention-oriented healthcare, fostering an environment where students can develop a preventive mindset that will enhance patient care regardless of their eventual specialty choice.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Julia Hansen
• Vice President: Hayden Tucker
• Secretary: Hayley Murphy
• Social Director: Alex Reichle
• Social Media Chair: Lillian Pham
• Lifestyle and Wellness Director: Caden Cutshall
• M2 Rep: Laila Wrenn

Advisors:

• Dr. Brian Williams 

Psychiatry Student Interest Group (PsychSIG)

Purpose: To nurture the psychiatric interests of our membership and to facilitate broader student education and understanding of psychiatry across campus.

2025-2026 Officers:

• Co-President: 
  • Neha Piracha
  • Colton Watson
•  Vice-Presidents: Reena Thara

Advisors:

• Dr. Theodora Brown 

Radiology Interest Group (RIG)

Purpose: To increase exposure to radiology early in medical school to encourage participation in the radiology curriculum and prepare students applying to the field of radiology.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: John Hollis Tackett
• Vice President: Bryan Rivers
• Secretary: Kaitlyn Anderson
• Research Chairs:
  • Mary Madison Snyder
  • Nellie Massey
• Outreach Chairs:
  • Lane Boyer
  • Sara Matheson
• Shadowing Coordinators:
  • Sterling Bailey
  • Patrick Geary
• M4 Class Representatives:
  • Alex Facundus
  • Jacob Hearin
• M3 Class Representatives:
  • Tiwaniya Tyler
  • Aaron Kwag
  • Ramya Sarna
  • Kamal Kota
  • Sukhbir Sohal
  • Riyan Siddiqui
• M2 Class Representatives:
  • Danny Ly
  • Sagar Keriwala
  • Lydia Lee
  • Nivedha Kosalram

Advisor: Pamela McElroy

Rural Medicine Interest Group

Purpose: The purpose of the Rural Medicine Interest Group (RMIG) is to advocate for the medically underserved rural populations of Mississippi while educating medical students about rural medicine and equipping them for a future as a rural physician. Additionally, RMIG believes it is important to shed light on all of the medical needs in rural Mississippi, including the need for primary care and specialty doctors, screening and preventative medicine, and more. RMIG aims to foster collaborations with students and rural physicians in the area in order to further conversations for expanding adequate medical care for all individuals in underserved populations in Mississippi. 

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Royce Swayze
• Vice President: Andrea Milton
• Secretary: Will Sutton
• Treasurer: Reed Bain
• M4 Representative: Tyler Holland
• M3 Representative: Todd Merchant
• M2 Representative: Rylee Story

Advisor: Dakota Bibbs

Student Health Coalition of Mississippi

Purpose: The Student Health Coalition (SHC) is a student-led, non-profit (501-c3) created to promote public health, improve health literacy, and provide health professional students with an opportunity to connect to their communities. We provide free health screenings to adult and child Mississippians at festivals, places of worship, schools, and housing authorities. Adult screenings include blood pressure, blood glucose, and BMI measurements. Screenings for children mainly consist of vision and hearing. We address food deserts in our state with our Dollar General Cookbook, a collection of health-conscious recipes written by students and approved by registered dietitians with ingredients entirely sourced from Dollar General. SHC works to meet people where they are and help them take the next steps toward improving their health.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Aswin Arunachalam
• Vice President: Sarah Sawaya
• Secretary: Caden Cutshall
• Treasurer: Micaela Shields
• Communication Chairs:
  • Elizabeth “Gray” DuPeirier
  • Jessica Jacob
  • McKenzie House
• Data Collection:
  • Tessa Childers
  • Shivani Shukla
• Hometown Initiative: Addison Stevens
• Executive Team Leader: Priya Sanipara
• Executive Pediatric Directors:
  • Taylor Lampkin
  • Kaylyn Banks
• Research Director: Lucy Green
• Supplies Director: Madison Ferris
• Nutrition Director: Luke Losordo

Advisor: Dr. Brian Williams 

Student Interest Group in Neurology (SIGN)

Purpose: To make medical students aware of opportunities available in the field of Neurology. To further neurological knowledge of medical students. To provide opportunities for medical students to participate in activities related to the field of Neurology, including: discussions by Neurologists, patient presentations, seminars, journal clubs, learning materials, and arranged shadowing of Neurologists in the workplace.

2025-2026 Officers:

• President: Sydney Bhopatkar
• Vice President: Allegra Latimer
• Secretary: Maddie Griffin
• Treasurer: Cody Gressett
• Event Coordinator:  Logan Thomas
• Research Coordinator: Tyler Trussell
• Shadowing Coordinator: Haven Howell
• Social Media Chair: Emilee Ly
• M4 Representative: Shade Smith
• M3 Representative: Taylor Jefferson
• M2 Representative: Jasmine Butler

Advisor: Dr. Sukriye Damla Kara

Surgery Interest Group (SIG)

Purpose: To foster an interest in the field of surgery and to facilitate a better understanding of the practice of surgery and its subspecialties through professional contacts, exposure to the operative experience, and an accurate representation of the lifestyle of a surgeon. The Surgery Interest Group will strive to meet the interests and needs of all medical students at UMMC's School of Medicine who are interested in the field of surgery.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Lillian Sisson
• Vice President: McKayla Rankin
• Secretary: David Thaggard
• Treasurer: Haley Rooks
• M3 Representative: Mary Lindley Tharp
• M2 Representatives:
  • Laura Martin
  • John Henley Wilkinson

Advisor: TBD

The VITAL Signs Initiative (Victim Identification Through Advocacy & Learning)

Purpose: To be an advocacy group dedicated to combating human trafficking through the lens of healthcare. As providers are often critical lifelines for individuals who may require protective custody, placement in safe houses, or access to trauma-informed resources, it's essential that future clinicians are prepared to respond. We aim to equip students with the knowledge and tools to recognize red flags and provide compassionate patient-centered care at every point of contact. Our work includes raising awareness, advocating, engaging in service, and working in collaboration with local organizations to strengthen and expand access to care of human trafficking victims.

2025-2026 Officers:

• President: Maddie Beth de Gruiter
• Vice President: Xavier Person

Advisor: Dr. Sarah Sterling

Toxicology Interest Group

Purpose: To explore an extremely interesting and often neglected topic that has significant impact on emergency, trauma, and psychological medicine. We want to provide a laid back and casual environment to discuss toxic substances and medications, and their effects on patients and how they can be identified and treated in both inpatient and outpatient settings.

2025-2026 Officers:

• President: Logan Sneed
• Vice President: Grady Leek
• Secretary: Jack Green
• Treasurer: Logan Lamar
• Events Chair: Holmes Maley
• M3 Representative: Mary Ellen Owings
• M2 Representative: Owen Fracchia
• M1 Representative: Gray Phillips

Advisors:

• Dr. Brett Marlin
• Dr. Jonah Gunalda

UMMC Gift of Life

Purpose: Per Gift of Life: "Improve the quality of life of patients awaiting transplantation by maximizing the availability of donor organs and tissues while upholding the highest medical, legal, ethical, and fiscal standards."

The UMMC Chapter aims to establish a new donor population, including students from all of UMMC's affiliated schools. We plan to start a yearly donor drive directed at people between the age of 18-35. After firmly establishing donor drives on UMMC campus, we plan to expand drives to local colleges and high schools.

2025-2026 Officers:

• President: Darian Raucher
• Vice President: Flannery Voges-Haupt
• Secretary: Advait Praveen
• Treasurer: Brice Utley
• Social Media Chair: Shade Smith

Advisor: Dr. Vince Herrin 

UMMC Global Brigades Medical Chapter

Purpose: To support Global Brigades’ mission as an international, student-led nonprofit by empowering members to participate in medical brigades that deliver sustainable healthcare and infrastructure to resource-poor communities.

2025-2026 Officers:

• President: Akshaya Vijayasankar
• Fundraising Chair: Morgan Claire Bell
• Social Chair: Anna Clare Colson

Advisor: Dr. Jeremy Jackson 

UMMC Metaphysicians

Purpose: Metaphysicians is a discussion, interest, and friendly support group for any students interested in ethical, philosophical, and psychological issues in medicine. Started by students and committed to open, genuinely exploratory discussion without preconceived conclusions, the group meets monthly in a casual, low-key venue to talk about topics of morality, philosophy, policy, self-development, personal growth, and life goals. The group chooses its own subjects for discussion and sometimes watches relevant movies, plays relevant games, or goes on short relevant field trips. Intended to be a place where students can think and talk about the deeper meaning of medicine and a life in medicine, Metaphysicians welcomes any interested student.

2025-2026 Officers:

• President: Stephen Azar

Advisor: Dr. Patrick Hopkins

UMMC Pacemakers (Running Group) 

Purpose: To establish a fun and rewarding experience for medical students to engage with the Jackson community. In doing so, this organization aims to bring runners together through competition and camaraderie in hopes of creating a healthy and enthusiastic atmosphere. We will strive to move Mississippi in a positive direction one step at a time!

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Skip Corales
• Vice President: Jake Harthcock
• Event Coordinator: Mary Marshall Waller
• Secretary: Mick Kelly
• Social Media: Ty Kirk

Advisor: Dr. Michael McMullan

UMMC Pride

Purpose: UMMC Pride is an organization that focuses on LGBTQ+ individuals and the issues they face. We strive for education, understanding, and acceptance by promoting outreach, volunteerism, and clinical experience. We teach our members how to give sensitive care, as well as making efforts to prioritize service in our LGBTQ+ community.

2025-2026 Officers:

• President: TBD
• Vice President: TBD

Advisor: TBD

Urology Interest Group 

Purpose: To introduce medical students to the surgical specialty of Urology. We strive to promote communication among members and Urology faculty. We will discuss careers in Urology, advancements in Urology, and the Urology residency application process. We will also work closely with the Department of Urology to connect students with shadowing, mentoring, and research opportunities.

2026-2027 Officers:

• Co-Presidents:
  • Jack Ligon
  • Anna Renfroe
• Vice President of Research: Barnes Benton
• Vice President of Outreach: Beau Rimmer
• Vice President of Social Affairs: Griffin Sanders
• Secretary: Railey Mayatt
• Treasurer: Cece Cottone
• M3 Representative: Jack Loome
• M2 Representative: Tessa Childers

Advisors:

• Dr. Christopher Bean

Vascular Surgery Interest Group

Purpose: We strive to equip aspiring medical professionals with the knowledge and insight necessary to navigate the intricate landscape of vascular health and surgery.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Lillian Sisson

Advisor: Dr. Mrinal Shukla

V.O.I.C.E.S (Voices for Outreach, Inspiration, Care, Empowerment, & Safety)

Purpose:  The purpose of this organization is to provide an inclusive and collaborative student group dedicated to promoting outreach, safety, mentorship, education, and advocacy related to women’s health and well-being. The organization welcomes individuals of all backgrounds and identities who are committed to supporting these goals.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Sarah Broadaway
• Vice President: Madison Burton
• Secretary: Savannah Hicks
• Treasurer: Chloe Ward
• Outreach Volunteer Coordinator: Nancy Duarte-Sanchez

Advisor: Dr. Licy Yanes Cardozo

Wilderness Medicine

Purpose: To improve management of remote and improvised care of patients with routine or exotic illness/trauma with limited resources and delayed evacuation to definitive care.

2026-2027 Officers:

• President: Alex Reichle
• Vice President: J. Mike Comer
• Treasurer: Sukhbir Sohal
• Event Coordinator: Haley Bounds
• Fundraising: Jackson Dear

Advisor: Dr. John McCarter

Women in Radiology

Purpose: The purpose of the Women in Radiology group is to increase exposure to radiology early in medical school in order to encourage participation in the M3 radiology elective. The goal of this group is to increase early exposure to the field for women and anyone else who may be part of a population considered to be underrepresented in radiology. We typically do at least one meeting per semester and plan to have more interactive sessions, either virtual or in person, where women can receive advice from female mentors within radiology. 

2025-2026 Officers:

• President: Jamesia Kenney
• Vice President: Shailyn Miller
• Secretary/M3 Representative: Mary Madison Pevey
• Event Co-Chairs:
  • Nelley Massey
  • Sara Matheson
• M2 Representatives:
  • McKenzie House
  • Piper Lind
  • Ramya Sama

Advisor: Dr. Charlotte Taylor