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Pediatrics Residency

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Chief Residents

Caroline Clark

Caroline Clark


I grew up in Winter Park, FL, a charming little city on the outskirts of Orlando. I received my bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Tampa, where I also played on their DII volleyball team (Go Spartans!). For medical school, I attended The Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Auburn, Alabama. After spending four years away from my home, I knew I was ready to return to the sunshine state!  I feel so honored to have the opportunity to join the USF Peds family and return to Tampa, FL!  My professional interests include Pediatric Emergency Medicine and Pediatric ICU, but I am keeping an open mind as well! Outside of medicine, I love to read, attempt DIY furniture/home projects, create, and eat all genres of delicious food, and spend time with my boyfriend Neal and our adorable goldendoodle, Addi! 
Angela Pluguez

Angela Pluguez


I was born in Queens, NY but moved to Kissimmee, FL when I was 10 years old. Florida has since been my home. I attended the University of Central Florida where I got my BS in Health Sciences. I then worked as Clinical Research Coordinator for 2 years until starting medical school at New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine at Arkansas State University in Jonesboro, AR. I could not be more excited to be returning to my home state where my significant other and I can enjoy the great weather and fun times to be had in Tampa with our wonderful dog while being close to our families. I am passionate about my family, dogs, cooking, martial arts and traveling. Professionally, I see myself practicing in the inpatient setting, whether that be as a hospitalist or within another subspecialty is still in the works. I also look forward to continuing to make time for advocacy. I am so excited to be a part of the USF family and to call Tampa home! 

PGY-3

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Ciara Alvarez


I was born and raised in the Tampa area and am thrilled to be back! I attended the University of Florida and received my degree in Food Science and Human Nutrition followed by a master’s degree from USF. I then attended medical school at the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine. It has been my goal to train with USF Pediatrics for as long as I can remember, having had the most wonderful experiences as a patient with USF physicians! I am excited to explore various subspecialties and general pediatrics to find out where I can best manage chronically ill patients! I have a special interest in endocrinology, likely because I have lived with Type 1 Diabetes for most of my life. I enjoy spending my free time with my husband and our pug, Winston. You can find us spending time on the boat, eating snacks, or traveling to new places.

Alexaundria Barnes


I was born and raised in Florida but completed my undergraduate degree and M.Ed. at the University of Notre Dame. Before pursuing medicine, I taught middle school science. I attended medical school at Florida Atlantic University and absolutely loved my pediatrics rotations. My current interests are between General Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine. In my free time I enjoy working on jigsaw puzzles, crocheting, and baking.
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Jordan Bernard


I was born in California but grew up in San Antonio, Texas and went to college at the University of Washington in Seattle. Since 4th grade I’ve known I wanted to be a pediatrician, and all my jobs growing up involved kids! After college, I scribed in Pediatrics which is when I fell in love with general outpatient pediatrics. I went to medical school at Rocky Vista University in Colorado and love to ski. However, after 4 years of the cold I am excited to have the beaches and warmth! My hobbies are anything outdoors including running, boating, fishing, and I love to travel, try new food places, and hang out with friends.
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Grace Dittmar


I was born in Fort Lauderdale Florida and am so excited to finally be moving back to the sunshine state! I attended Univ. of Southern Miss. for undergrad and VCOM-Auburn for medical school. I’m honored to have the opportunity to begin my career as a physician serving the communities I love the most in Florida. In my free time I enjoy working out, being by the water, and attending live music events.
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Aliasger Ezzi


I grew up right here in Tampa, Florida! I graduated with my bachelor's degree in chemical engineering from the University of Florida and my Doctor of Medicine from Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine in Miami. In my off time, I love to read and create art. I am very passionate about digital art but enjoy more traditional mediums as well. I am a huge fan of fiction and non-fiction, but my best-loved genre is fantasy. My favorite author is Brandon Sanderson!
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Zainab Ezzi


I was born in Detroit, Michigan but grew up primarily in Houston, Texas. I went to medical school at the Aga Khan University in Karachi, Pakistan due to my interest in Global Health. During the pandemic, I met my lovely husband, who is also a pediatrics intern at USF.  In my free time, I love to try new dessert recipes, read Colleen Hoover novels, learn calligraphy, and stress relief with kickboxing. I am obsessed with dad jokes and puns.
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Jess Holler


I was born in Southern California and moved to Roswell, Georgia when I was young. I attended Emory University where I studied biology and played on the volleyball team. After graduating, I stayed in Atlanta for two years to work as a research specialist with a focus on HIV and related viruses. I attended St. George’s University on Grenada for medical school and completed my clinical years in Miami.  I hope to pursue a fellowship in Pediatric Emergency Medicine, Sports Medicine, or Cardiology. In my free time, I love to be outside, go to the beach, do yoga, read, play volleyball, and listen to true crime podcasts.
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Kelly McGee


Hello! My childhood was spent in several states, as well as a few years in Southeast Asia, but I mostly grew up in Colorado Springs, CO. I majored in Biomedical Engineering at Vanderbilt University, and then moved here to Tampa to attend the USF Morsani College of Medicine. During medical school, I enjoyed the sun and water of Tampa Bay, and learned how fulfilling it is to partner with families in caring for kids. My professional interests include hospital medicine, global health, and medical education. On a personal level, I enjoy pursuing my faith and going for walks, and you can frequently find me losing at chess or some other game.
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Ariel Offutt


I was born and raised in Detroit, MI. I received my Bachelors in Physiology at Michigan State University. I then worked at Richmond Community Hospital and received my master's in biology at the HBCU Virginia State University. During that time, I met my now husband. My talents took me back to Michigan State University College of Human Medicine where I completed my M.D. program. In my free time, I love sharing the gospel through my social platforms and connecting with women in and outside of medicine. I also love to travel and have an interest in Global Health and Hematology and Oncology. I am coming to Fla with my hubby, two fur babies, and our new bundle of joy.
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Ian Robinson


I was born in Atlanta, but I grew up in beautiful Pensacola, Florida. For my first two years of college, I played soccer in Leeds, UK at Richmond International Academic and Soccer Academy. I then transferred to the University of South Florida to finish undergrad and fell in love with the Tampa area I attended Morehouse School of Medicine prior to returning to the Florida sunshine for residency. I have an interest in pursuing Pediatric Emergency Medicine, inpatient or outpatient general pediatrics. Some of my favorite things to do are soccer, traveling, visiting beaches, rivers, or hiking trails. I also enjoy watching tv and hanging out with friends and family.
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Marina Sorial


I was originally born in Alexandria, Egypt but immigrated to the US when I was a year old. I have lived in South Carolina for as long as I can remember, attended Furman University for my BS in Biology, and the University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville for medical school. My professional interests include inpatient medicine, rheumatology, and infectious disease. I am excited to see where advocacy fits in those interests because I am very passionate about incorporating it into my career. I am thrilled that I am close to the beautiful beaches, warm weather, and a church community I have grown close to in the area. In my free time, I love reading, trying new restaurants, and spending time outdoors- I'm a beach and mountain girl!
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John Wiegand


I was born in New York and grew up in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. After high school, I moved to Celebration, FL to get away from the cold weather and be close to Disney World. I attended the University of Florida for college and then spent a year working as an emergency room medical scribe. I went to medical school at the University of Central Florida College of Medicine. My professional interests include pediatric cardiology and pediatric emergency medicine or General Pediatrics. For fun, I love hiking, watching movies, going on long walks with my two dachshunds, and playing piano. 

PGY-2

Sara Beshara

I was born in Egypt and immigrated to Canada when I was 6 months old. I have lived in Michigan, Florida, and California where my hometown now is. I went to UCLA and afterwards moved to Miami for medical school at the University of Miami. I aspired to become a General Pediatrician, with a passion for Advocacy and Policy to implement much needed change for our younger population. I enjoy traveling, going to the beach, trying new restaurants, and playing board games. I am also a huge Anime, Marvel, and Disney fan.

Martin Cheramie

Hi! I am new to the Tampa area and looking forward to serving the children of Tampa Bay. I am originally from southern France and moved to the states as a toddler, growing up in Lafayette, LA. I learned both French and English as a child, a testament to children's amazing intelligence! I grew up enjoying sports, especially soccer. Sports are a great way to stay healthy and learn to socialize, an activity I will promote to kids who are capable. Prior to medical school, I worked in a lab at St. Jude Children's Hospital, where I was introduced to the wonderful world of Pediatrics and grew my interest in Infectious Diseases. I went to medical school at UTHSC in Memphis, TN. I look forward to applying the skills I learned in medical school and beyond to care for the children of the Tampa area!

Danielle Gantar

I am from Davis, California and pursued my undergraduate degree at the University of California, Santa Barbara. After working for two years I completed medical school at the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine.  In my free time, you can find me outdoors, whether it's camping, climbing or playing beach volleyball.

Sean Griffin

I was born in Hartford, CT, but moved to Orlando when I was 5 years old. Orlando was my home until I went off to undergraduate at the University of Miami (Go ‘Canes!), where I majored in Biochemistry and History. After finishing undergrad, I started Medical School at Florida Atlantic University during the height of the pandemic. Currently, I am interested in Sports Medicine, Pulmonary, and Critical Care Medicine. In my free time I enjoy watching sports, live music, and reading new books.

Amanda Hernandez

I was born and raised in Tampa. I went to college at the University of Florida and then came back to Tampa for medical school and to be closer to my family. In my free time, I love to read– all genres of books but particularly mysteries, romances, and thrillers. I also love being creative through painting, journaling, and other crafts. I am interested in general pediatrics and would also love to be able to incorporate global health in my future career. 

Alyson Hill

I was born and raised in Oklahoma. I attended the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma for undergrad and did my medical education at Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. I intend to specialize in general pediatrics post-residency, but I eagerly anticipate exploring and gaining insights from various pediatric specialties during residency. Outside of medicine, I am a huge nerd! I love things like Star Wars, video games, anime, and hanging out with my two cats, Patrick and Luigi.

Jenny Lee

I am from Duluth, Georgia and attended college at the University of Georgia. I stayed in Georgia for medical School at Medical College of Georgia.  I love creative hobbies and some of my favorites are photography and making handmade jewelry! On interview day, I felt so much genuine warmth I could sense there is a sincere culture of uplifting and encouraging one another from mentors and colleagues. Both the resounding support and opportunities at USF are a place where I can thrive!

Lidia Lopez

I was born and raised in the Tampa Bay Area I attended USF for undergrad and I worked at the Tampa General Hospital NICU as a patient care technician before starting medical school at Indiana University School of Medicine.  My professional interests are Neonatology and Pediatric Critical Care. In addition to investing time learning more about pediatrics and caring for patients, I enjoy time with family and friends, being involved in my church, reading, fishing, cooking, baking, and serving my community.

Manda Mainville

I was born in Lima, Peru, and moved to Tampa when I was 2 years old. I earned my bachelor's degree in Biomedical Sciences at the University of South Florida (Go Bulls!) and attended Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale for medical school. My professional interests are widespread including general pediatrics, neonatology, global health, advocacy, and medical education. My hobbies include walking along the Riverwalk, reading fiction books, and going to concerts!

Keyshla Munoz Munoz

Hi everyone! I am from Isabela, Puerto Rico. I went to the University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez for undergrad, and then ended at Caguas, Puerto Rico for medical school. My professional interests are between following General Pediatrics or continuing a fellowship in Pediatric Gastroenterology. Outside of medicine, I really enjoy the beach, trying new restaurants and of course, finding new coffee spots anywhere I am.

Sridevi Narayanan

I was born in St. Joesph, Missouri and grew up in Omaha, Nebraska. I received my undergraduate degree from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and attended medical school at Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences in Yakima, WA. After completing my sub-I at TGH as a fourth year medical student, I knew I had found the right program for me. I instantly felt at home and was drawn toward the welcoming and friendly nature of USF residents, faculty and staff. I am currently interested in general outpatient pediatrics but am eager to explore different subspecialties throughout residency. I enjoy spending time near the water, playing board games with friends, eating different Asian noodle dishes, re-watching episodes of Parenthood, and playing with my dogs. I feel incredibly lucky to be joining the USF Pediatrics family and to call Tampa home for the next few years! 

Chris Raskey

I am a married father of 4 daughters who has a strong interest in helping families and children improve their health in ways that also strengthen their relationships. I grew up in Orlando, FL, but spent time in the Air Force taking me to the west coast where I attended PNWU in Yakima, WA. What drew me to USF Health was the camaraderie I felt between staff and residents. I felt like this was a program that values people and patients first. My family and I enjoy the Florida sunshine, trips to the beach, and hanging out with other families for board games and BBQ's.

PGY-1

Justin Brodsky

I was born in Greenville, NC, and raised in Longwood, FL, a small suburb just outside of Orlando. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Exercise Physiology from Florida State University (Go Noles!) before heading to Clearwater, FL, for medical school at Nova Southeastern University. I’m currently interested in pursuing a fellowship in Sports Medicine. Outside of medicine, I enjoy watching and playing sports, grilling, and spending time with my two dogs, Bubba and Brantley. 

Emma Guld

I was born and raised in Wisconsin where I studied biology at Wisconsin Lutheran College in Milwaukee. From there, I attended the Lake Erie College of Medicine in Bradenton, Florida where I met my boyfriend, Mark. We lived in downtown Tampa during clinical rotations and fell in love with the community and were lucky enough to stay and match here at USF! Currently, I am interested in pursuing a fellowship in Cardiology or Pediatric Emergency Medicine. In my free time, I enjoy walking and snuggling my dachshund Winston, doing Pilates, lifting weights, hanging out at the pool, and cooking lots of healthy meals!

Abigail Hardy

I grew up in Saratoga Springs, NY and moved to Indianapolis, IN shortly after graduating high school. From there, I attended college a few states over at Saint Louis University and received my bachelor’s in neuroscience with a minor in history. I came back to the Hoosier state for medical school where I graduated from Indiana University School of Medicine. I always envisioned becoming a pediatrician, and after my first clerkship in the third year of medical school I confirmed that a career improving and protecting the health of children was right for me. When I interviewed at USF, I had a great experience and knew this was the next spot to call home! I am excited to continue my training here and I’m looking forward to exploring career options. As of now I’m most interested in neonatology, pediatric emergency medicine, or general pediatrics. Apart from medicine, I enjoy spending time with my husband, son, and family, being involved with my church, crocheting, cheering on the Bolts, and of course as a former Hoosier staying up to date on all things Indy Car! 

Anthony Lenza

I am Jersey born, but Florida grown since I was 14. I completed my undergraduate at UCF, Medical Sciences Masters at USF, and finally medical school at St. George University -or as we jokingly call it- "The Harvard of the Caribbean!". I wanted to be an EM physician most of my life, but during my 3rd year pediatric rotation I knew I was home. I am honored and thankful to be working close to my family in St. Pete. Currently, I am interested in hospital medicine and medical education. I love trying new breweries and restaurants, an avid reader (especially sci-fi), cooking, and a sometimes-good dart player. Ask me about my medical antique collection!

Tammy Nguyen

Hi! We moved to Tampa when I was 10 years old and I’ve called it home ever since! I went to USF for both undergrad and medical school. I’m looking forward to exploring different pediatric specialties here at USF. My current professional interests include general pediatrics or endocrinology. In my free time I enjoy baking, crocheting, video games, and reading. 

 

Sujal Patel

I was born in St. Petersburg, Florida and grew up in Tampa, so I am beyond excited to be back in my hometown! I’m a proud Double Gator as I attended the University of Florida for both undergrad and medical school. My professional interest includes Allergy and Immunology, which I am currently considering for fellowship, though I am keeping an open mind as I explore all that pediatrics has to offer. I am also passionate about advocacy work, particularly through my involvement with FCAAP and I am excited to find ways to continue it in my future career. Outside of medicine, I love watching football at home surrounded by my big family and I never pass up a chance to travel, hike, or kayak—especially at Weeki Wachee. I am so grateful to be joining the USF Peds family and cannot wait to rediscover all the gems Tampa has to offer!

 

Jenniffer Quiñones Colon

Hola! I'm Jenniffer. I have a special interest in Behavioral and Developmental Pediatrics. Born and raised in Ponce, Puerto Rico, I earned my MD from Ponce Health Sciences University. I'm passionate about patient-centered care and believe deeply in building strong connections with patients and their caregivers — all to help children thrive. When I'm not in the hospital, you’ll likely find me enjoying a good cafecito or soaking up nature at the beach or on a walk.

Meera Ratani Patel

I grew up in Bradenton, Florida and moved to Tampa during high school—I've called it home ever since. I completed both my undergraduate and medical education at the University of South Florida, and I'm thrilled to continue at USF for residency. My academic interests include longitudinal care, endocrinology, and hospitalist medicine. When I’m not at the hospital, you’ll find me watching Netflix, listening to audiobooks (especially rom-coms and fantasy), or baking something sweet in the kitchen.

Alanis Rosado

I'm a proud Tampa Bay native and thrilled to be staying in the area for residency. As a double USF Bull, I earned my undergraduate degree in Biomedical Sciences with a minor in Nutrition and completed medical school right here at USF. I'm passionate about caring for children and supporting families in the Tampa Bay community, with a special focus on serving the Latino population. My interests include preventive medicine, nutrition education, and empowering kids to build healthy habits that last a lifetime. Outside of medicine, you can find me at the beach, staying active by working out, exploring new restaurants, and cheering on our local Tampa Bay sports teams! 

Sally Stauder

I was born and raised in Chicago and received my BS in Neuroscience from Tulane University in New Orleans.  I moved to Ponte Vedra Beach and attended Florida State University for medical school. USF quickly became my top choice after realizing it offered everything I was looking for in a program-supportive residents and faculty, strong clinical opportunities, and the chance to live in the beautiful Tampa/St. Pete area! My career interests include general pediatrics, neonatology, and pediatric emergency medicine. Outside of medicine, I enjoy staying active and outdoors-running, biking, golfing, and swimming at the beach. I also love to cook, do crosswords, and paint. I’m excited to join the USF Peds family and experience all this wonderful community has to offer!

 

Dany Suarez Goris

Having completed my medical education in the Dominican Republic, my professional journey in the U.S. has encompassed valuable roles as an allied health professional and in clinical research in Boston, MA, and Orlando, FL. I am driven to pursue a career as a generalist, with a dedicated focus on community care and adolescent medicine. I'm passionate about supporting families, social causes, and underrepresented groups. I'm fluent in English and Spanish. I am very much looking forward to contributing to USF. Outside of my professional life, I enjoy hanging at home with my partner and my dogs. I enjoy cooking, exploring new restaurants (I thrive on appetizers), and engaging with technology or watching science fiction."

Daniela Villalobos-Barrera

Hi there! I’m originally from Maracaibo, Venezuela, where I proudly completed medical school and a pediatrics residency. A few years later, life threw me a curveball and brought me to the United States. Leaving behind my country, my career and my family, was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. That transition was filled with challenges, but it also became the driving force behind my dream to continue my path in medicine. With time, perseverance, and the support of my loved one, I found my way back to pediatrics. Now, a few years later, I’m beyond excited to be joining the USF Pediatrics Residency Program. Pediatrics has always been my calling, and getting to do what I love again—this time surrounded by such a supportive and passionate team—feels incredibly special. When I’m not at the hospital, you’ll find me chasing after my two amazing kids, spending time with my husband and family, doing something outdoors, or relaxing at the beach (my happy place!). Florida sunshine has definitely stolen my heart.