Family Medicine Residents
Our curriculum is designed around the outpatient clinic experience in order to emphasize high quality outpatient training. We also have a very strong inpatient service and provide maternity care. PGY-1 residents typically spend one half-day per week in the clinic on hospital rotations, along with several dedicated clinic blocks when they are in their continuity clinic full time. During the PGY-2 year, clinic time increases to 3-4 half-day clinics on most rotations, and PGY-3 residents are typically in clinic four half-day sessions per week. Clinic templates are designed to give residents consistent clinic days to promote continuity with their patients.
Rosalind Chia, DO
Vinson Liu, MD
Monty Salanoa, MD
Tyler Wall, DO
Christopher Kawata, DO
Kaloni Philipp, MD
Cameron Wagner, DO
Qi Wen Xin, DO
Henry Chinyere, MD
Connor Fordham, DO
Alexander Matthias, DO
Amy Soeun, MD
Jovanna Figueroa, MD
Carl Gustafson, DO
Benjamin Mecham, DO
Sagar Sudan, MD
Samanntha Trina Chung, DO
Inna Couri, MD
Geraldine Desir, MD
Himmat Dhillon, DO
Ishan Godra, DO
Samantha Matta, DO
Shana Ofori, MD
Noura Sayegh, DO
Meghna Shankar, DO
Meet Our Family Medicine Residents
3rd Years - Class of 2026
Rosalind Chia, DO - Chief Resident
Hometown: Vancouver, Canada
Medical School: Midwestern University
Why did you pick Creighton-Phoenix?
There are many reasons! After doing a Sub-I, I've come to love the people, the culture, and learning environment. The program and faculty are all very supportive of residents in designing their own track and achieve the type of practice they wish to do after graduation.
What hobbies/interests do you have?
Travelling, rom-com movies, Korean dramas, real-estate reality shows, soccer,volleyball, and any outdoor activities!
What are your plans for after graduation?
Hospital medicine and possible outpatient later down the road! Considering academic positions as well.
Christopher Kawata, DO - Chief of Med Ed
Hometown: Irvine, CA
Medical School: Midwestern University
Why did you pick Creighton-Phoenix?
I chose this program because of the supportive residents and faculty. There is a strong culture of residents willingly helping each other and creating a safe learning environment. The faculty are very invested in each resident's growth and guiding them to reach their career goals.
What hobbies/interests do you have?
Basketball, baseball, music, sneakers.
What are your plans for after graduation?
I am interested in pursuing a fellowship in Hospice and Palliative Care. I hope to continue to work in an FQHC or similar setting.
Vinson Liu, MD - Chief Resident
Hometown: Phoenix, AZ
Medical School: Creighton University
Why did you pick Creighton-Phoenix?
Phoenix is home. I was drawn to the camaraderie between the residents and the quality of attendings.
What hobbies/interests do you have?
Basketball, staying active, and trying new things.
What are your plans for after graduation?
Fellowship in Sports Medicine
Kaloni Phillip, MD
Hometown: Phoenix, AZ
Medical School: University of Arizona COM Tucson
Why did you pick Creighton-Phoenix?
My parents were immigrants and when they came to Phoenix, they were directed to go to Maricopa County Hospital, now Valleywise Medical Center,where I was born. I am committed to service in underserved communities, and I couldn't think of a better place than the community I grew up in. Our program offers so many opportunities to work with a diverse population from various walks of life. I feel this program best fit my needs to become a well-rounded family medicine ready to work with any patient population in any setting.
What hobbies/interests do you have?
I love spending time with my husband, son, and family in Mesa. I also enjoy board games, reading, crocheting, musicals, and road trips!
What are your plans for after graduation?
I enjoy community medicine and women's health. I would like to work in a setting where I can continue to use both skills.
Monty Salanoa, MD
Hometown: Hawaii
Medical School: Creighton University
Why did you pick Creighton-Phoenix?
I believe Creighton Phoenix takes its mission to serve the underserved seriously. During my interview, I got a real sense that the program cared about supporting its residents and ensuring that they had the tools to care for their patients.
What hobbies/interests do you have?
Weightlifting, basketball, hiking, traveling.
What are your plans for after graduation?
Rural Medicine
Cameron Wagner, DO
Hometown: Fullerton, CA
Medical School: Kansas City University
Why did you pick Creighton-Phoenix?
I picked Creighton because of the population we serve. Our patients are underserved and struggle with a wide range of socioeconomic challenges. Weare the only option for healthcare for most of these patients. They have complex needs, both medical and non-medical, that are a challenge for both provider and patient. I know this training will provide me the confidence to handle any medical condition my patients present with in the future, complex or not, and I'm so grateful I can help my patients now, as a resident, to get the care they need but would otherwise not get.
What hobbies/interests do you have?
Doing absolutely anything with my wife, trying new restaurants, finding the best tacos in town, reading about US history and space.
What are your plans for after graduation?
I want to do primary care and focus on preventive medicine for all ages. I also want to work on the business administration side of the healthcare organization. I would like to work for a place with greater emphasis on primary care and look for opportunities to cut cost and improve quality.
Tyler Wall, DO
Hometown: La Habra, CA
Medical School: Rocky Vista University
Why did you pick Creighton-Phoenix?
When looking at programs, we were hoping to stay in the West after living in Southern Utah for medical school. After interviewing with the program, I was impressed by the Program Director Dr. Jones and other faculty members as I felt they had my best interests as a resident physician. After being here a year, I think this program is well suited for physicians that want great experience in managing progressed chronic diseases in an underserved population.What hobbies/interests do you have?I’m a big family guy! I’ve been married for 7 years, and my wife and I have our hands full with our 2-year-old. Our biggest hobbies include having fun at the park, swimming, and watching a lot of Disney movies. Outside of that I like togolf, run, and watch as much college football as I can.What are your plans for after graduation?We plan on returning to our home community in Northern Utah to practice outpatient primary care.
Tina Xin, DO
Hometown: Shandong, China
Medical School: Midwestern University
Why did you pick Creighton-Phoenix?
I had a great experience here during my sub internship and loved working withthe residents and faculties.
What hobbies/interests do you have?
Karaoke, swimming, playing games with friends, traveling, searching for goodfood.
What are your plans for after graduation?
Outpatient Primary Care.
Class of 2027
Henry Chinyere, MD
Hometown: Kingman, AZ
Medical School: U of A Tucson
Why did you pick Creighton-Phoenix?
Top notch training, faculty, and co-residents!
What hobbies/interests do you have?
Staying active. Watching sports. Creative Arts.
What are your plans for after graduation?
Still undecided currently.
Jovanna Figueroa, MD - Wellness Chief
Hometown: Phoenix, AZ
Medical School: U of A Phoenix
Why did you pick Creighton-Phoenix?
Growing up in South Phoenix, I have a deep connection to the community served by the Valleywise South Phoenix Family Medicine Clinic. I even remember visiting this clinic as a teenager! Choosing Creighton was an easy decision for me, not only because it allows me to learn and practice medicine in my hometown but also because of the unparalleled camaraderie among residents and faculty. I feel incredibly fortunate to be in this position.
What hobbies/interests do you have?
Talking about my cats, DIY projects, running, and true crime.
What are your plans for after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to continue working with underserved populations, either by jumping directly into practice or further specializing through a fellowship. My interests in addiction medicine, diabetes, and wound care will play a significant role in shaping my practice and future goals. One thing remains certain: having grown up in Phoenix, I am deeply committed to staying in this community and providing comprehensive and compassionate care to its residents.
Connor Fordham, DO
Hometown: Salt Lake City, Utah
Medical School: Midwestern University
Why did you pick Creighton-Phoenix?
The incredibly kind people and the program's dedication to help the underserved.
What hobbies/interests do you have?
Sports, sports, and more sports.
What are your plans for after graduation?
Sports medicine fellowship or work in primary care.
Carl Gustafson, DO
Hometown: Chicago, Illinois
Medical School: Rocky Vista University
Why did you pick Creighton-Phoenix?
All the Residents and the attendings in this program are very nice and support one another. This program fosters a friendly and conducive learning environment that makes it easier and more fun to learn. As Always Roll Jays!
What hobbies/interests do you have?
Golfing, Snowboarding, Hiking, Food Enthusiast
What are your plans for after graduation?
Outpatient Medicine
Kamaehu Matthias, DO
Hometown: New Jersey
Medical School: Rocky Vista University
Why did you pick Creighton-Phoenix?
When I did a Sub-I rotation here, I loved how the faculty interacted with the residents. I felt like the interactions between faculty and residents and between residents themselves always seemed to be collaborative and supportive.Residency is hard no matter what, but it's a lot more sustainable when you can go to work knowing that your coresidents and faculty have your back 100% of the time and that’s the vibe I got from my time here as a student.
What hobbies/interests do you have?
I'm like a dog. I enjoy just about anything that involves a ball. Basketball,football, fútbol, baseball, cricket, you name it. I also am an avid Brandon Sanderson bookworm (go fantasy nerds). Other than that, my wife and I absolutely love doing anything with our daughter who rules our lives.
What are your plans for after graduation?
I'm passionate about sports medicine and am planning on applying to fellowships. When I grow up, I hope to be a university team doc.
Benjamin Mecham, DO
Hometown: Prescott, AZ
Medical School: NYITCOM
Why did you pick Creighton-Phoenix?
I wanted to be close to home!
What hobbies/interests do you have?
I enjoy board games, fantasy fiction, anime, and educational YouTube channels.What are your plans for after graduation?At this stage, I only know that I want to practice in the Phoenix - Mesa area.
Amy Soeun, MD - Wellness Chief
Hometown: St. Paul, MN
Medical School: Creighton Phoenix
Why did you pick Creighton-Phoenix?
I wanted to work with underserved populations and train at an FQHC. And of course, the people! I felt the friendly and welcoming culture at this program since I was a medical student, and I knew that I wanted to be a part of it.
What hobbies/interests do you have?
Thrifting, playing board games, bouldering, hiking, going to concerts, trying new restaurants, and cuddling my dog!
What are your plans for after graduation?
Outpatient medicine working with underserved populations focusing on women's health and preventative care.
Sagar Sudan, MD
Hometown: Brampton, Ontario, Canada
Medical School: St. George's University
Why did you pick Creighton-Phoenix?
The amazing staff and weather
What hobbies/interests do you have?
Sports, Sneakers, Biotechnology.
What are your plans for after graduation?
Work in an Urban Setting
Class of 2028
Samanntha Chung, DO
Hometown: Irvine, California
Medical School: Midwestern University
Why did you pick Creighton-Phoenix?
The people! I had the chance to rotate here, and got along great with everyone.In addition, I thought the teaching environment fit my needs well.
What hobbies/interests do you have?
Reading, listening to music/watching concerts, trying new foods/cafes
What are your plans for after graduation?
I'm hoping to continue serving the underserved community, hopefully in an inpatient/outpatient hybrid setting.
Inna Couri, MD
Hometown: Minneapolis, Minnesota
Medical School: University of Iowa
Why did you pick Creighton-Phoenix?
All around the residents, faculty, etc. were super friendly, welcoming, and overall seemed like the type of people I’d want in my corner for the next 3 years!
What hobbies/interests do you have?
Lots of walks and hikes with my dog, reading, working out, movies, thrifting,traveling, swimming, camping, being outdoors
What are your plans for after graduation?
Outpatient primary care focusing on chronic disease management and preventative health
Geraldine Desir, MD
Hometown: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Medical School: Creighton University
Why did you pick Creighton-Phoenix?
During my time at Creighton School of Medicine, I developed a strong connection to Phoenix, which helped shape my passion for community-centered care. I chose Creighton-Phoenix because I was particularly drawn to the opportunity to work at the South Phoenix clinic, an FQHC, and with other local community partners like St. Vincent de Paul that share a similar mission.Just as important to me was finding a program with a supportive and collaborative culture among residents and faculty.
What hobbies/interests do you have?
Outside of medicine, I enjoy all genres of live music, sports, especially basketball and tennis, cruises, trivia, and spending quality time with my loved ones.
What are your plans for after graduation?
After residency, I hope to practice in a community-based setting where I canintegrate nutrition and preventive care into my work and continue mentoring individuals from underrepresented backgrounds who are pursuing careers in healthcare.
Himmat Dhillon, DO
Hometown: Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
Medical School: Midwestern University
Why did you pick Creighton-Phoenix?
I liked the program's emphasis on serving vulnerable sectors of the community as well as the strong academic curriculum at Creighton-Phoenix. I could also very much sense the tight knit community at the program during my interview day and through meeting residents and faculty.
What hobbies/interests do you have?
Ice Hockey, Weight Lifting, Pickleball, Hiking, Cooking
What are your plans for after graduation?
Broad spectrum Family Medicine in an outpatient clinic.
Ishan Godra, DO
Hometown: Toronto, Canada
Medical School: Midwestern University
Why did you pick Creighton-Phoenix?
After doing my audition rotation here, I found that the residents were very supportive, and the faculty created a great learning environment. After being in Phoenix for four years, it’s started to feel like home, so staying here with Creighton just made sense.
What hobbies/interests do you have?
Weightlifting, cooking, and exploring Phoenix.
What are your plans for after graduation?
Outpatient care.
Samantha Matta, DO
Hometown: Scottsdale, AZ
Medical School: Midwestern University
Why did you pick Creighton-Phoenix?The county hospital experience, the faculty, and the learner independence. Ilearned the most on my fourth year sub-I rotation with this program out of all my clinical rotations. The diversity of pathology, patient load, and (supervised)independence was unmatched! I knew I would become a strong, well-rounded physician if I trained here. I also loved that there were several wonderful female physicians on faculty.What hobbies/interests do you have?I love to teach and practice yoga, run along the canal or greenbelt, lift weights at EōS, hike and backpack, cook new Mediterranean recipes, surf (amateurly),garden, read, and watercolor!What are your plans for after graduation? I am open! My interests include sports medicine, integrative medicine, women’s health, and hospital medicine, so we’ll see where residency takes me!
Shana Ofori, MD
Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona
Medical School: Creighton University
Why did you pick Creighton-Phoenix?
The Creighton community has been extremely supportive during my medical education and the dedication to the underserved is unmatched in Arizona. I am thrilled to continue my journey as a Blue Jay!
What hobbies/interests do you have?
I enjoy practicing Bikram yoga, gardening, and I have recently caught a travel bug!
What are your plans for after graduation?
I plan to work with underserved populations here in my home of Phoenix,Arizona.
Noura Sayegh, DO
Hometown: Scottsdale, AZ
Medical School: AT Still University
Why did you pick Creighton-Phoenix?
I chose Creighton’s Family Medicine Residency in Phoenix because it allows meto train in my home state, close to the communities that have shaped and inspired me. This program’s mission also strongly aligns with my goal of caring for the underserved population. From my very first interaction, the warmth and support of the staff made it clear this was the right place for me to grow as a physician.
What hobbies/interests do you have?
My hobbies and interests include keeping my two pitbulls active and happy,using art as a creative outlet, and practicing my Christian faith through prayer and attending services.
What are your plans for after graduation?
Continuing my career in the state I love allows me to give back to the communities that have supported and inspired me throughout my journey. I’m committed to building lasting relationships and making a meaningful impact!
Meghna Shankar, DO
Hometown: Norman, Oklahoma
Medical School: Midwestern University
Why did you pick Creighton-Phoenix?
I picked Creighton-Pheonix because I felt right at home during my audition month as a fourth year student. I was challenged and pushed in my medical knowledge and training during that time and knew that would only be magnified as a resident. I also thoroughly enjoyed my time with all of the residents and faculty and feel so privileged to be able to continue my training with them!
What hobbies/interests do you have?
I love to dance, hike, and try new restaurants!What are your plans for after graduation?I hope to either own a private practice doing outpatient family medicine as well as be the Medical Director of a MedSpa.
