Hau Pham emigrated alone from Vietnam as a teenager in 1975. He finished the last two years of high school while learning English. He received his undergraduate degree from the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. He served honorably for six years as a Surface Warfare officer in the United States Navy. He left the Navy, attended Pennsylvania College of Podiatric Medicine, and then completed his Podiatric Surgical Residency at New England Deaconess Hospital. He then completed a Diabetic Foot fellowship at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, during which he participated in numerous clinical trials and research projects. He was then appointed staff podiatrist at BIDMC. In 2000, Dr. Pham returned to his native country with two colleagues from BIDMC: a Vascular surgeon and an Endocrinologist. They gave lectures at the medical school in Ho Chi Minh City to large and small groups. Their lectures included the basics of diabetic foot care, the importance of blood glucose control, and how to improve foot circulation. Additionally, they conducted teaching rounds at the medical school and local hospitals. They taught the importance of incision and drainage, and of timely, minor amputation rather than jumping to a major amputation too quickly. Dr. Pham performed the first Podiatric surgery, and the Vascular surgeon performed the first in situ bypass graft in Vietnam.   They returned for two more years to go to other major cities with a similar mission. After moving to Boston Medical Center/Boston University School of Medicine, where he serves as staff podiatrist for a large safety net hospital, Dr. Pham continued to participate in numerous clinical trials and investigator-initiated research as a Principal Investigator or co-investigator, contributed to many oral presentations and manuscripts, and served as a reviewer for some journals. He was instrumental in establishing the Podiatry Medicine and Surgery Residency training program and served as its assistant director. He was appointed Chief of the Podiatry section in 2018, guiding the division through the COVID-19 pandemic. He stepped down in 2022 and continued to do research and teaching.

My name is Krista Elizabeth Samreth, 4th year at UTRGV School of Podiatric Medicine and I will be presenting my poster on Reduction in Plantar Pressure in Patients with Foot Pain During Ambulation on Thursday, July 16. I will provide my biography and headshot below. "Krista Elizabeth Samreth is a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine student at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley with a background in epidemiology and clinical research. She earned a Bachelor of Science and Arts from The University of Texas at Austin followed by a Master of Public Health in Epidemiology from Texas A&M School of Public Health. She currently serves as President of the Association of Extremity Nerve Surgeons UTRGV Student Chapter. Her research interests include gait biomechanics, peripheral nerve surgery, and lower extremity pathology, with presentations at national podiatric and biomechanics conferences.

Dr. Peter Sorensen is a PGY-3 podiatric surgery resident at Ascension St. Vincent Indianapolis, where he serves as Research Chief. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from Southern Utah University and his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine and Masters of Healthcare Administration from Des Moines University College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery. His research interests include minimally invasive foot and ankle surgery, AI applications in podiatric medicine, and podiatric education.

Camellia Russell is a healthcare professional and educator whose work is grounded in patient-centered care, innovation, and community impact. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from University of California, Los Angeles, followed by Master’s degrees in Business Administration and Education in Curriculum & Instruction from Eastern University. She also obtained her Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine from Temple University College of Podiatric Medicine.

With a multidisciplinary academic background and diverse clinical experience, Dr. Russell is dedicated to advancing excellence in healthcare through compassionate service, leadership, and education. Her professional approach combines clinical expertise with strategic insight, allowing her to contribute meaningfully to patient care, mentorship, and organizational growth. Passionate about lifelong learning and innovation, she remains committed to empowering individuals and strengthening the communities she serves.

Year: PGY-3

Dr. Kanno is currently the Chief Resident at ChristianaCare Hospital in Delaware, where she has developed a strong interest in diabetic limb salvage. She will be continuing onto Fellowship starting August 1st in Albuquerque, NM focusing on diabetic limb salvage.  Outside of the hospital, her interests include trying new restaurants, travel (trying to visit all 50 states, currently at 35/50 states), and reading.

Dr. Patrick Robinson is a podiatric surgeon from Durand, Michigan, whose clinical journey spans some of the nation's most respected training institutions. With a specialty focus on foot and ankle surgery, he has built a reputation for tackling complex reconstructive cases and developing deep expertise in total ankle replacement — a procedure he considers his favorite for its transformative impact on patients' quality of life.

Education & Training

Dr. Robinson's academic foundation began at Michigan State University, followed by a Master of Science degree from Colorado State University. He earned his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine from Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine and completed his residency at Baylor Scott & White in Temple, Texas.

Clinical Interests

Dr. Robinson's clinical passion lies in total ankle replacement (TAR), and his broader career vision centers on sports medicine and complex foot and ankle reconstruction. He aims to join an orthopedic or hospital-based practice where he can pursue these specialties at the highest level.

Next Chapter

Dr. Robinson will be furthering his training through a Fellowship in Reconstructive Foot & Ankle Surgery at OrthoIllinois, working alongside Dr. Sorensen and Dr. Peterson.

Professional Involvement

An active member of the Texas Podiatric Medical Association (TPMA), Dr. Robinson found that attending conferences and serving on committees broadened his professional network and deepened his clinical knowledge — experiences he counts among his most formative.

Advice for Residents

Dr. Robinson offers this guidance to those evaluating residency programs: "Evaluate a program by observing its residents. What they're doing is what you'll learn."

Dr. Evan Jason, DPM, is a podiatric resident at Geisinger Medical Center (2026) in Pennsylvania. He has completed training in foot and ankle arthroscopy and AO Advanced Principles of Foot and Ankle Trauma. He also completed a mini-fellowship rotation at Bako Diagnostics in early 2026, focusing on dermatopathology.

Dr. Bui Tran is currently a resident physician at Guthrie Lourdes Hospital (Binghamton, NY) under direct guidance of Dr. Guido La Porta. Prior to his post-graduate training, he graduated from the University of Iowa with University Honors in Biomedical Engineering. Then, he attended and graduated from Des Moines University with his Master of Science in Anatomy and DPM.  Dr. Bui Tran is specifically interested in traumatology and adult foot and ankle reconstruction

Dr. Ryan Knapp, MD is a Podiatric Foot & Ankle Surgery Specialist in Albuquerque, NM.

Ms. Bethany Robinson is a second-generation Arizonan and Northern Arizona University Lumberjack. Bethany's interest in podiatry was sparked at Midwestern University's Health Careers Institute for high school students back in 2018. She plans to continue her passion for research in the field of podiatry.

Dr. Gary Rothenberg is a Board Certified Podiatrist, a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist and Certified Wound Specialist who currently holds an dual appointment as a Clinical Associate Professor of Internal Medicine and Vascular Surgery at the University of Michigan School of Medicine in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He is also the Director of Fellowship Training for the 2-year research-based fellowship at that

institution. Additionally, he serves as the Director of Medical Affairs for Podimetrics, a mission-driven company committed to preventing avoidable amputations among people living with diabetes. A graduate of the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine, he completed 3 years of residency training at the University of Texas Health Science Center

in San Antonio. His private practice, VA, academic practice, and industry roles have all focused on conservative and surgical management of the diabetic foot. Education has always been his passion -- whether working with students, residents, colleagues, or most importantly, patients, Dr. Rothenberg believes education is the key to successful prevention of diabetes-related lower extremity complications.

Jessica Sima is a second-year podiatric medical student at the UTRGV School of Podiatric Medicine. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Molecular and Cell Biology from the University of California, Berkeley.

Her academic interests include surgical reconstruction, diabetic foot care, sports medicine, and dermatology, with a growing focus on clinical research. She has been actively involved in research projects and has presented her work at multiple national conferences, including ACFAS and APMA. She hopes to pursue a career that integrates surgical practice with continued involvement in research and education.

Jessica is actively involved in several student organizations and holds leadership roles within her school. She currently serves as President-Elect of the ACFAS Student Club and as the APMA Student Representative on the Student Engagement Committee. She also serves as her class Curriculum Representative, where she advocates for collaboration between students and faculty to enhance the academic experience.

Outside of her academic and professional pursuits, Jessica enjoys watching movies, exploring local cafés, and spending time with family and friends.

Dr. Skolnik is a podiatrist at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. She is an Instructor in Orthopedic Surgery at Harvard Medical School.  She is a Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and a Diplomate of the American Board of Podiatric Medicine.

Khushiben Patel is a third-year podiatric medical student at the Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Biology with minors in Business and Applied Biotechnology from the University of Georgia.

Her academic interests center on foot and ankle surgery with a strong focus on clinical outcomes research. She participated in the CLEAR summer research program, where she studied total ankle arthroplasty outcomes using the PearlDiver database, analyzing surgeon type and revision rates. This work has been presented at national conferences, including ACFAS, APMA, Kaiser Permanente Research Consortium, and ASPS.

Khushiben currently serves as Vice President of her school’s ACFAS student chapter, is involved with the APMA Legislative Committee, and serves as ALPS President. She is committed to advancing evidence-based medicine within podiatric surgery.

I am a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine candidate at the New York College of Podiatric Medicine (Class of 2028). I hold a Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Health and a Bachelor of Science in Radiation Therapy from Laurentian University in Canada. My academic and research background includes work in clinical epidemiology, mental health, and emerging therapies for diabetic foot infections.

I am actively involved in leadership, advocacy, and student engagement within podiatric medicine. I currently serve in multiple roles, including NYSPMA Official Board Liaison, APMSA Legislative Action Committee Coordinator, and Student Ambassador at NYCPM. My work focuses on advancing the profession through policy advocacy, research, and community outreach. I have participated in national conferences and legislative initiatives, engaging with policymakers to address barriers in healthcare delivery.

With a strong interest in both clinical practice and health policy, I aspire to become a podiatric physician who not only provides high-quality patient care but also contributes to shaping the future of the profession through advocacy and organized medicine.

Monica Cambi is a second-year podiatry student at the New York College of Podiatric Medicine. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biological Science from Lehman College in New York City and a Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies in Biological and Physical Sciences from Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine. Her academic interests include wound healing, limb salvage, reconstructive surgery, and community health education with a growing focus on clinical research. Monica has presented at the National Conference and hopes to pursue a career that integrates surgical practice and community outreach, with a continued focus on research and education.

Dr. Paramita Basu Mukherjee is an Associate Professor at New York College of Podiatric Medicine and is affiliated as faculty member in other graduate and professional programs within Touro University. She also serves as the Director of Infectious Diseases in the Pre-Clinical Sciences Department. She received her bachelor’s degree with honors in Human physiology at Presidency college, University of Calcutta, India, followed by master’s degree in Pharmaceutical Biotechnology and Biochemical Engineering from Jadavpur University in India. She earned her MS in Biological Sciences and a PhD in Microbiology (antimicrobial resistance) from St. John’s University, New York. She also serves as adjunct or visiting faculty member and academic advisory board in multiple institutions in the US and abroad. Dr. Basu has more than 16 years of teaching experience in multiple areas of the biological, foundational and biomedical sciences. She specializes in antimicrobial resistance and infectious diseases related research with a passion for public health and community medicine and has experience in assay design and development in the Biotech/pharmaceutical industry. In the pedagogical area, she is interested in studying the uses of modern technology in medical education in addition to curriculum and assessment related research. Dr. Basu has published more than 50 articles in reputed peer-reviewed journals that contribute to the understanding of antimicrobial resistance and transmission, treatment & prevention of infectious diseases and has authored multiple chapters in well received books and referenced volumes in applied microbiology. Her past research experience in the pharmaceutical industry taught her to firmly believe that research should not exist in isolation but should have a tangible impact on public health and clinical practice. Therefore, as a researcher, she is interested in collaborating with fellow scientists working in related fields from other areas of science and leveraging their collective expertise by fostering interdisciplinary partnerships to accelerate the pace of discovery and improve our collective ability to combat infections.

Chia-Ding (JD) Shih, DPM, MPH, specializes in chronic wounds of the foot and ankle, lower extremity biomechanics, and foot and ankle reconstructive surgery. Dr. Shih is board-certified by both the American Board of Podiatric Medicine and the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery. He also holds a master’s in public health.

His research interests include population studies in non-traumatic amputation prevention and health care disparities, along with biomechanics and foot and ankle reconstruction as part of wound management. He is widely published in peer-reviewed medical journals on topics such as diabetic foot epidemiology, diabetic foot ulcer and infection diagnostic imaging and diabetic foot prevention strategy and policy.

Dr. Shih is active in the American and California podiatric medical associations and the American Association of Colleges of Podiatric Medicine, where he serves as a mentor. He received the Arthur E. Helfand Award for outstanding research and the John and Janet Carson Public Health Advocacy Award, both from the American Public Health Association.

He completed the Lawrence B. Harkless Fellowship in Limb Preservation at Keck Medicine of USC in 2019. He received his doctorate in Podiatric Medicine with honors from the California School of Podiatric Medicine at Samuel Merritt University, then served his residency in podiatric medicine and surgery with the Department of Veterans Affairs and multiple hospitals across Los Angeles. Dr. Shih’s interest in preventing amputations led him to get his Master’s in Public Health from The Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth. His goal is to help patients across Southern California preserve their mobility and live active, healthy lives.

He grew up in Taipei, Taiwan, and has lived in the United States for more than half his life, residing on both the east and west coasts.

Second-year podiatric surgical resident at Temple University Hospital in Philadelphia, PA. Poster presented on behalf of the Society of Podiatric Organization Volunteerism.

Steffi Casimir is a third-year Doctor of Podiatric Medicine candidate at Samuel Merritt University College of Podiatric Medicine. She has a strong academic and research focus in wound care, limb salvage, and sports-related lower extremity pathology. Steffi serves as Editor-in-Chief of the National Foot and Ankle Review and is actively involved in national leadership roles within podiatric medicine, including service with the American Podiatric Medical Students’ Association and the American Podiatric Medical Association.

Her research interests center on surgical outcomes, diabetic foot complications, and evidence-based approaches to improving care in underserved populations. Steffi has presented research at regional and national conferences and is passionate about translating clinical research into practical application.

Beyond academics, she is dedicated to mentorship, community outreach, and increasing representation within the medical field. She looks forward to sharing insights on the process of developing a poster presentation into a podium-level discussion.

Thomas Yanushefski, DPM is currently a 3rd year resident at Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton, Pennsylvania. He enjoys all aspects of podiatric medicine, including sports medicine, diabetic foot care, wound care, and reconstructive surgery. He will be starting as an associate at PA Foot and Ankle Associates in Allentown, Pennsylvania in July upon graduation from residency.

Dr. Michael Higham is a dedicated Foot and Ankle Surgeon and Doctor of Podiatric Medicine at UT Health RGV. He also serves as an Assistant Professor at the UTRGV School of Podiatric Medicine. Dr. Higham graduated with honors from both Utah State University, where he received his Bachelor of Science, and Midwestern University College of Podiatric Medicine, where he received his Doctorate of Podiatric Medicine. He then completed his surgical training at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center. As clinical faculty at UTRGV SOPM, Dr. Higham teaches and mentors the next generation of podiatric physicians and surgeons. At UT Health RGV, Dr. Higham provides comprehensive and surgical care of the foot and ankle. His principal professional interests include foot and ankle sports medicine, for which he instructs the course at UTRGV SOPM; biomechanics, where he was honored with the Paul H. and Carol F. Rasmussen Excellence in Biomechanics Award in 2021; and pediatric podiatry, in which he received extensive training at McClain Children's Hospital.

Malachi Brown is a 3rd-year Doctoral candidate in Podiatric Medicine at Barry University in Miami, FL, where he serves as the Student Body President. With a strong passion for community service, Malachi is committed to providing healthcare to underserved communities. His research interests span public health, global health, dermatopathology, and surgical techniques for the foot and ankle. Malachi holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Interdisciplinary Studies from Florida International University, graduating in 2020 with Summa Cum Laude honors and as a member of Phi Beta Kappa. Prior to graduate school, he gained valuable experience working at a physical medicine clinic for five years. In addition to healthcare, Malachi is passionate about leadership and mentorship. Outside of his academic and professional pursuits, he enjoys spending time with family and friends, binge-watching movies and shows, and weightlifting.

Chiara Edlin is a fourth-year podiatric medical student at Des Moines University College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery. Originally from South Africa, she spent most of her life in Tucson, Arizona, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Physiology and Medical Sciences at the University of Arizona. In her free time, Chiara enjoys crocheting, reading,

drawing, and spending time with her family.

Chasen Shao is a dedicated podiatric surgeon currently engaged with the One Brooklyn Health Residency Program. He has a strong educational and professional background, coupled with significant research contributions that underscore his commitment to the field of podiatric medicine.

Professional Background

•    Education: Dr. Shao acquired his medical degree from the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine (TUSPM) in 2023, where he held prominent roles such as Class President for the Class of 2023 and Research Coordinator for the American Public Health Association (APHA) student chapter.

•    Residency: Presently, he is a PGY-3 Resident at the One Brooklyn Health Residency Program in Brooklyn, NY, where he continues to enhance his surgical skills and clinical knowledge.

•    Research & Publications: Dr. Shao has made commendable contributions to podiatric medical research, including co-authoring a study titled "Arterial Leg Ulcerations Associated With Beta-Thalassemia," published in Podiatry Today. He also showcased his research on Limb Salvage at the Young Member's Institute Complications Seminar.

Honors and Involvement

•    Scholarships: In 2022, Dr. Shao was awarded the Ortho Dermatologics ASPIRE HIGHER Scholarship, acknowledging his academic excellence and potential in the medical field.

•    Community Involvement: Throughout his academic journey, he actively participated in marathon running and held leadership roles in several student organizations, demonstrating his commitment to community service and leadership.

Fiona Chen, DPM, is a board-qualified foot and ankle surgeon currently in her final year of residency at Northwell Health LIJ North Shore. She is trained in advanced surgical techniques, including elective and reconstructive procedures, minimally invasive surgery, and arthroscopy. Dr. Chen completed her undergraduate studies at Cornell University, where she majored in biological sciences with a concentration in animal physiology. She graduated cum laude and published her honors thesis on the genetic regulation of intestinal stem cells in Drosophila melanogaster and its role in maintaining gut homeostasis. She later earned her Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from the New York College of Podiatric Medicine. Outside of the hospital, she enjoys playing video games, ice skating, and drawing.