On Friday, June 14th, the Baptist Health-UAMS Internal Medicine Residency Program said a final goodbye to their graduating class of 2024. With a beautiful graduation ceremony held at Next Level Events in Little Rock, friends and family of the graduating residents gathered alongside program faculty and administration to celebrate the momentous occasion.

Leading the event was Program Director, Dr. Paula Podrazik, giving reassurance, positive advice, and an inspiring speech to graduates as they leave the program to begin their careers. At her side, Program Manager Donald Sandlin expressed the administrative staff’s best wishes and assisted Dr. Podrazik in a stellar send off.

Together, they honored the residents individually, even awarding a select few with faculty voted awards, including graduate Dr. Rachael Agbator, who was awarded the “Resident of the Year” achievement. Residents were also given the chance to award their faculty members for their commitment and dedication, honoring Dr. Lauren Ewing with the “Faculty Teaching Award,” Dr. Clark Watson with the “Outstanding Hospitalist Award,” and Dr. Maxine C Seales Kasangana with the “Consultant of the Year” award.

We are astounded to hear that four of this years graduates are planning to stay in Central Arkansas, while others will continue to practice medicine amongst other regions in the US. Dr. Namrah Ali will remain in the Baptist Health system, working as a hospitalist based in Conway alongside Dr. Afaf Malik, who also plans to work at BHMC Conway. Dr. Sherry Abader has taken a position at UAMS in Little Rock, and Dr. Ban Mashadani has plans to remain in Central Arkansas in the Baptist Health system.

The graduation ceremony beautifully celebrated the graduating Internal Medicine residents, giving staff and families a collective space to enjoy the achievements of the Class of 2024. We wish the entirety of the Internal Medicine Residency graduates the best in their future careers!