Shaylor Bringhurst, DO

Dr. Shaylor Bringhurst is originally from McKinney, TX. He attended medical school at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine–Louisiana. Dr. Bringhurst values connection across cultures and brings that perspective into patient care. He chose ISU Family Medicine residency program for its full-spectrum training and family-friendly atmosphere, describing the culture as both supportive and resident-driven.

Outside of medicine, Dr. Bringhurst enjoys spending time with family, especially outdoors during the summer. An avid sports enthusiast, he is always up for a game and is particularly known for a strong pickleball serve. Dr. Bringhurst will graduate in 2027.

Weston Burrup, DO

Dr. Weston Burrup is originally from Lewiston, Idaho. He attended medical school at A.T. Still University-School of Osteopathic Medicine in Mesa, Arizona. His path to medicine was shaped by a two-year Spanish-speaking church mission in California, where he developed a deep appreciation for Hispanic culture, along with his passion for anatomy, teaching, and lifelong learning.

Drawn to family medicine for the opportunity to care for patients of all ages and treat the whole family unit, Dr. Burrup chose this residency program for its rural training opportunities, supportive faculty, and the chance to return to Idaho. He describes the program’s culture as collaborative, caring, and deeply invested in resident growth.

Professionally, Dr. Burrup aspires to practice in a rural setting, with interests that span from full-spectrum care to outpatient medicine. He especially values the strong relationships between residents, staff, and faculty that enrich his training experience.

Outside the hospital, he enjoys mountain biking, hiking, fishing, playing basketball, and spending time with his kids. A fun hidden skill—he’s surprisingly good at tossing small foods into the air and catching them in his mouth. Dr. Burrup will graduate in 2027.

Emma Hammer, MD

Dr. Emma Hammer is originally from Helena, Montana. She earned a B.S. in Cell Biology and Neuroscience before attending the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Prior to medical school, Dr. Hammer gained diverse experience working as a medical scribe, anatomy TA, hotel housekeeper, med-tech in a memory care unit, and a busser at an Italian restaurant. She values the program’s excellent learning environment. Outside of medicine, Dr. Hammer enjoys spending time with her husband and dog, hiking, skiing, reading, and cooking.

Nathan Hammer, DO

Dr. Nathan Hammer was born and raised in Kalispell, Montana. He completed his undergraduate education at Montana State University, where he met his wife, Emma. He attended medical school at Rocky Vista University in Parker, Colorado. Outside of medicine, Nathan enjoys powerlifting, golfing, and playing with the family French Bulldog, Hazelnut. After finishing residency, he plans to practice rural family medicine in the Mountain West.

Braeden Leiby, MD

Dr. Braeden Leiby grew up in Pocatello, Idaho, and graduated from the University of Washington School of Medicine. Prior to medical school, he worked as a clinical research assistant and medical assistant for a primary care sports medicine physician. Dr. Leiby also worked as a ranch hand; working the headgate and cattle chutes at team roping events.

As a lifelong athlete, Dr. Leiby was drawn to medicine through a natural interest in sports and human performance. Early exposure to sports medicine classes and hands-on work with athletic trainers confirmed his desire to pursue a medical career. This foundation, combined with his clinical research experience, ultimately inspired his path toward Family Medicine and Sports Medicine.

Choosing a residency in his hometown was especially meaningful. Dr. Leiby values the collaborative, supportive, and family-like culture at ISU Family Medicine Residency and PMC. He has particularly enjoyed learning in the Sports Medicine clinic and working alongside sports medicine physicians at ISU games. Looking ahead, Dr. Leiby plans to pursue a Sports Medicine fellowship with the goal of building a mixed practice in primary care and musculoskeletal medicine for both athletes and the broader community.

Outside of medicine, he enjoys spending time with family, exercising, golfing, skiing, and waterfowl hunting. Dr. Leiby will graduate in 2027.

Nick Longe, DO

Dr. Nick Longe is originally from Salt Lake City, Utah. He attended medical school at Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine. He is pursuing a sports medicine fellowship and values the opportunity to shape his education around his interests within a self-driven program.

Outside of medicine, Dr. Longe enjoys spending time outdoors mountain biking, hiking, and training his dog. He also has a passion for woodworking and building furniture. Dr. Longe will graduate in 2027.

Evan Tayler, DO

Dr. Evan Tayler is originally from Heber City, Utah. He attended medical school at Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences. Before pursuing medicine, he worked as an Olympic development cross-country ski coach, an experience that, along with his passion for exercise science, sparked his love for human physiology and anatomy.

Drawn to family medicine for the opportunity to care for patients at every stage of life, Dr. Tayler chose this residency program for its exceptional training in broad-spectrum family medicine and the supportive community it fosters. He especially enjoys learning in hospital medicine and describes the program’s culture as wholesome and encouraging.

Outside the hospital, he enjoys biking, skiing, and fishing. He also takes advantage of the area’s outdoor opportunities, including skiing at Pebble Creek, mountain biking, and visiting nearby national parks. Dr. Tayler will graduate in 2027.

Luke Richards, DO

Rural Training Program Resident, Rexburg

Dr. Luke Richards is originally from Erda, Utah. He graduated from Rocky Vista University – Southern Utah campus. Before medical school, he earned a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Utah Valley University and gained diverse experience working in urgent care, a psychiatric hospital, and as an orderly in surgery, in addition to various construction jobs.

His path into medicine began early, working as a medical assistant in high school and witnessed the trials of his uncle’s liver transplant—experiences that solidified his desire to pursue a career in healthcare. Drawn to Family Medicine for its combination of procedures and long-term patient relationships, Dr. Richards chose this residency program for its full-spectrum training, supportive culture, and commitment to resident input.

Professionally, Dr. Richards is interested in practicing full-spectrum medicine in a small town. They have especially enjoyed Obstetrics, where he learns something new with every shift. He also enjoys sports medicine because it which combines hands-on learning with a great schedule.

Outside the hospital, Dr. Richards enjoys lifting, mountain biking, trail running, and playing pickleball. He is fan of good food. He especially enjoys local favorites like Taste of India and Taste of Nepal. Dr. Richards will graduate in 2027.

Bethany Gold, DO

Rural Training Program Resident, Rupert

Dr. Bethany Gold is originally from Rexburg, Idaho and graduated from Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine. Before beginning medical school, Dr. Gold dedicated her early career to caring for her family while also engaging in research, teaching yoga, and contributing to her community and church through volunteer work.

Driven by a lifelong curiosity about how the world works—particularly the complexities of the human body and mind—Dr. Gold was drawn to medicine as a way to answer the question of “why” behind illness and pathology. This same spirit of inquiry fuels her passion for cooperative, long-term patient care, where building trust, collaboration, and problem-solving within a therapeutic team are at the heart of their practice.

In residency, Dr. Gold has especially appreciated the strong culture of collaboration and patient-centered care in Pocatello, as well as the supportive network of fellow physicians who share those values. Outside of medicine, she enjoys hiking, walking, or fishing with her dog, playing pickleball and mountain biking with classmates, and spending time outdoors. Dr. Gold is also a musician and avid reader, valuing creativity and lifelong learning.

For Dr. Gold, a perfect weekend in Pocatello ends with curry from Thai Kitchen and a relaxing trip to the hot pots at Lava Hot Springs. Dr. Gold will graduate in 2027.

Kerrin Kramer, PharmD

Sarah DiDonna, MD

Dr. Sarah DiDonna is originally from Bismarck, North Dakota and attended the University of North Dakota School of Medicine for medical school. She earned her degree in biological sciences with minors in chemistry and military science before working as a Gold Bar Recruiter for Army ROTC and as a CNA in the emergency room. Her path into medicine has been shaped by her service in the Army National Guard, as well as her love for international travel, cultural exchange, and her Italian heritage.

Drawn to family medicine for its continuity of care and variety, Dr. DiDonna values the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with patients across all ages and stages of life. She chose this residency for its welcoming culture, strong sense of community, and access to outdoor activities that complement her active lifestyle. Her professional interests include obstetrics, and she envisions a future practice that combines clinic, hospital, ER care, and obstetrics to serve her community broadly.

So far, she has especially enjoyed the supportive learning environment, where faculty and peers alike foster growth and mentorship. Her hospital medicine rotation has been a highlight, offering both clinical challenge and meaningful patient connections. She describes the residency culture as a hidden gem—welcoming, down-to-earth, and deeply committed to both excellent patient care and resident development.

Outside of medicine, Dr. DiDonna enjoys hiking, camping, weightlifting, running, baking, cooking, and reading—currently diving into the works of Brandon Sanderson. She and her husband also share a passion for cars and enjoy driving manual transmissions together. With strong family ties to Italy, she still treasures time spent cooking Italian dishes and keeping her heritage alive. Dr. DiDonna will graduate in 2028.

Daniel Head, MD

Dr. Daniel Head grew up in Nome, Alaska. He attended medical school at the University of Washington. Before medical school, he worked in commercial construction, an experience that grounded him in the values of hard work and problem-solving. His path to medicine was shaped by witnessing the profound impact a compassionate and skilled physician can have in a rural community.

He chose family medicine with the goal of raising his family in a rural setting and providing full-spectrum care to small communities. He was drawn to this residency program because of its reputation as one of the strongest in the country for comprehensive family medicine training. His professional interests include rural family practice in communities with fewer than 3,000 people, with a focus on building lasting connections with patients and families.

He values the family-friendly environment of the program and has particularly enjoyed his experience in hospital medicine. Outside of medicine, he spends time gardening, playing with his children, and working on hands-on projects such as welding, automotive repair, carpentry, and woodworking. He and his family enjoy weekends at Bear Lake, and he looks forward to graduating with the Class of 2028.

Gabe Heath, DO

Dr. Gabe Heath grew up in Twin Falls, Idaho. He attended medical school at the Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine. Before medical school, he worked for four years as a clinical exercise physiologist at St. Luke’s Lifestyle Medicine while also coaching high school football and the local Special Olympics ski team, the Magic Valley Wildcats. His international experiences in Israel and Guatemala further shaped his motivation to pursue a career in medicine.

His path toward family medicine was influenced by his background in lifestyle medicine, his passion for coaching, and his desire to care for individuals with intellectual disabilities, inspired by his two brothers. He chose this residency program for its strong culture, supportive residents and faculty, and its emphasis on broad-scope family medicine.

Dr. Heath’s professional interests include full-scope family medicine, emergency medicine, sports medicine, wilderness medicine, and international medicine. One of his most memorable rotations so far has been hospital medicine, where the intensity and responsibility of patient care fueled his passion for residency training.

Outside of medicine, he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children, whether outdoors in the sun or relaxing together with a movie. He is also an avid snowboarder, basketball player, golfer, guitarist, and most recently, a backyard barbecue enthusiast thanks to his Traeger. His weekends are often filled with family, faith, and adventure. Dr. Heath will graduate in 2028.

Serene Kergaye, DO

Dr. Serene Kergaye grew up in Salt Lake City, Utah. She went to medical school at Rocky Vista University. Before medical school, she studied biomedical engineering and worked in Phase I pharmaceutical research. Her path into medicine was shaped by her experiences working with underserved refugee populations, which deepened her commitment to service and compassionate care.

She chose family medicine for the opportunity to care for patients across all stages of life, from newborns to geriatrics, and to build lasting relationships through continuity of care. Dr. Kergaye was drawn to this residency program for its full-spectrum training, designed to prepare her for any patient she may encounter. Among her favorite experiences so far has been working in obstetrics, where she finds great fulfillment in helping to welcome new life into the world.

Outside of medicine, Dr. Kergaye enjoys playing soccer, going to the gym, and cooking. She will graduate in 2028.

Jeremie Morris, DO

Ciara Robb, DO

Dr. Ciara Robb is originally from Elberta, Utah. She attended medical school at Rocky Vista University in Southern Utah. Before medical school, Dr. Robb pursued a biology major and gained diverse healthcare experience, working as a Certified Nursing Assistant as well as a Sleep Technician. She was also a music teacher prior to medical school.

Growing up on a ranch, Dr. Robb developed a passion for rural healthcare, aiming to provide full-scope medicine to underserved communities. This rural background heavily influenced her decision to enter Family Medicine, a specialty that offers the variety and flexibility she sought in patient care.

Dr. Robb chose this residency program because of its comprehensive training in full-scope family medicine, and she enjoys the strong sense of camaraderie within the residency. Describing the team as "like family," she appreciates the mutual support and care shared among residents.

Outside of medicine, Dr. Robb enjoys backpacking, horse riding, and hunting. She also has a passion for music. She enjoys singing and writing her own songs. Time away from the hospital is often spent with her husband and daughter, unwinding in the outdoors or indulging in their love of Japanese food. She is a fan of the TV show Northern Exposure. She appreciates the quiet, rural lifestyle it portrays. Dr. Robb will graduate in 2028.

Jess Scheer, MD

Dr. Jess Scheer is originally from Annandale, Minnesota. She attended medical school at University of South Dakota for medical school. Her decision to pursue medicine was shaped by her experiences growing up in a rural community with limited access to healthcare, which sparked an interest in improving care for underserved populations.

Dr. Scheer chose this residency program because of the people. She refers to it truly feeling like a family. The culture is empowering, with faculty and residents who prioritize education, collaboration, and personal growth. What she enjoys most so far is the supportive, fun atmosphere; even on busy days. Stating that there’s always laughter and encouragement from colleagues.

Professionally, Dr. Scheer is passionate about wilderness and international medicine, as well as combat medicine through her service in the Army. These areas allow her to combine her love of adventure with the skills and training of medicine to help people in diverse and challenging settings.

Outside of medicine, Dr. Scheer is a private pilot and a musician who can play 13 instruments, with guitar being her favorite. She also enjoys spending weekends exploring Idaho’s incredible outdoors, from hiking in the Tetons and Yellowstone to camping right outside Pocatello in Mink Creek. Dr. Scheer will graduate in 2028.

Andrew Sullivan, DO

Dr. Andrew Sullivan grew up in West Texas and Washington State. He attended medical school at Pacific Northwest University. Before entering medical school, he worked as both a Firefighter/Medic and a Winemaker Assistant in Washington, experiences that shaped his desire to serve others and strengthen rural communities.

He chose family medicine for the opportunity to provide comprehensive, high-quality care to rural populations and selected ISU Family Medicine for its broad-spectrum training that prepares residents for the unique challenges of rural practice. His professional interests include working in a family medicine clinic as well as providing care in critical access emergency departments.

The supportive and encouraging culture of the program, from faculty to fellow residents, has been one of the highlights of his training so far. Outside of medicine, he enjoys hiking, camping, fly fishing, and skiing—with skiing being a particular passion. On weekends, he can often be found outdoors with his family, exploring trails or casting a line in local waters. He is proud to be part of the Class of 2028.

Chace Cook, MD

Rural Training Program Resident, Rexburg

Dr. Chace Cook is Originally from Eagle, Idaho. He attended medical school at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. Before medical school, he worked as an MCAT tutor, helping students prepare for the challenges of medical school.

Initially drawn to healthcare through exposure to dentistry in his father's clinic, Dr. Cook realized his passion lay elsewhere—eventually discovering that family medicine offered the deep patient relationships he was looking for. His decision to pursue this specialty stems from a desire to build lifelong connections with patients and serve communities in a meaningful, personal way. Dr. Cook describes this residency environment as supportive and encouraging, where camaraderie among residents enhances the experience.

Culturally connected to the Czech Republic through his mother’s heritage, Dr. Cook spent two years living in Prague and is fluent in Czech. He is known among peers for his love of games—whether board, card, or video games—and for their appreciation of lasagna and the TV show Scrubs. On the weekends often find Dr. Cook enjoying time with extended family, further reflecting the values that brought them to family medicine. Dr. Cook will graduate in 2028.

Joe Enfonde, MD

Rural Training Program Resident, Rupert

Dr. Joseph Enfonde grew up in Charles Town, West Virginia. He attended medical school at West Virginia University. Before medical school, he majored in Biology and completed a year of Master of Public Health coursework in Epidemiology. He was also active in the WVU Kid’s Climbing Club and led international students on outdoor climbing trips throughout West Virginia, combining his love for the outdoors with promoting healthier lifestyles.

Inspired early on by his high school biology teacher’s work in rural Africa, Dr. Enfonde carries a mission to bring care to those who would not otherwise have it. His professional interests include global health and practicing in rural or austere environments, with a particular focus on underserved areas abroad. He was drawn to this residency program for its opportunities in wilderness and austere medicine and appreciates the variety of training experiences it provides.

Outside of medicine, Dr. Enfonde enjoys hiking, rock climbing, skiing, and cooking Sichuanese food. Dr. Enfonde will graduate in 2028.

Melanie Valentine, DO

Rural Training Program Resident, Rupert

Dr. Melanie Valentine grew up in Logan, Utah. She attended medical school from the Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine. Before medical school, she served in the Army, raised five children, worked as a clinical lab assistant, and completed a Master of Public Health. Her love of science, human biology, and psychology ultimately shaped her path into medicine.

She chose family medicine because of her passion for caring for all patient populations—from pediatrics to women’s health to geriatrics. She selected this residency program for its supportive culture, location, and strong training in obstetrics. Her professional interests include hospital medicine, obstetrics, and procedures.

Within residency, she has especially enjoyed her obstetrics rotation and values the program’s open and supportive environment. Outside of medicine, she enjoys spending time outdoors, being with her children, and riding motorcycles with her husband. She is also a talented performer who enjoys singing and is known for her ability to mimic both Woody Woodpecker and Cher. A lover of all foods—especially fruit, Asian, Indian, and tacos—she brings energy and personality to everything she does. Dr. Valentine will graduate in 2028.

Abby Straley, PharmD

Abby Straley graduated from Idaho State University L.S. Skaggs College of Pharmacy, receiving her Doctor of Pharmacy degree in May of 2026. Her professional interests include family medicine and pharmacy education, though she enjoys the variety that pharmacy offers and values opportunities to broaden her clinical expertise. As a resident, Abby appreciates the opportunity to continue developing her clinical skills while caring for a diverse patient population. She enjoys working alongside physicians, residents, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care and enhance the patient experience. Outside of pharmacy, Abby enjoys spending time outdoors, including hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. She looks forward to a career that combines patient care, teaching, and lifelong learning.

Grace Onaiwu, PharmD

Grace Onaiwu was born in Nigeria and grew up in Frisco, Texas. She earned her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center in 2026. Grace’s clinical interests include ambulatory care and academia. She is excited to further expand her clinical knowledge and skills through the ISU Pharmacotherapy Residency Program while building a strong foundation in the management of acute and chronic disease states across diverse patient populations. She values the opportunity to care for patients across the continuum of care and looks forward to working collaboratively with the interprofessional healthcare team to improve patient outcomes. Grace is excited to continue growing as a clinical pharmacist while building meaningful relationships with patients and the community. Outside of pharmacy, Grace enjoys roller skating, ice skating, and spending time with family and friends.

Alex Behnam, DO

Dr. Alex Behnam, is a Family Medicine resident in the Class of 2029. Originally from Sacramento, California, Alex earned a degree in Biology, competed as a collegiate swimmer, and worked as a caregiver before medical school. His experience as a caregiver shaped his commitment to building meaningful, respectful relationships with patients and their families.

Alex attended Kansas City University–Joplin and was drawn to Family Medicine because of its broad scope and opportunity to care for patients of all ages. He chose the program for its comprehensive training, including resident-led obstetrics and labor and delivery. His professional interests include surgical obstetrics, rural medicine, and wilderness medicine.

Alex especially enjoys the program’s close-knit culture, strong communication, and emphasis on resident input. One of his favorite experiences has been delivering his first continuity baby and later caring for that child in pediatrics clinic. Outside the hospital, Alex enjoys backpacking, spending time outdoors, and occasionally playing piano. He is also half Persian and is currently working on learning Farsi.

Kate Bercaw, DO

Dr. Kate Bercaw grew up in Springfield, Illinois, and studied Biochemistry in Michigan before taking her love of the outdoors to Lake Tahoe, California. There, she spent several years skiing, guiding canoe trips, working in food service, and tutoring math and chemistry. She later moved to Southern Utah to attend Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Kate was drawn to Family Medicine because she values the opportunity to care for patients of all ages while building meaningful, long-term relationships. Her experiences watching family members navigate chronic illness sparked her interest in understanding the root causes of disease and helping patients achieve lasting health. She has a particular interest in wilderness medicine, lifestyle medicine, and musculoskeletal care, and is always working to improve her medical Spanish.

Kate chose this residency for its welcoming, supportive culture and broad, hands-on training. She especially appreciates the people she works alongside and the genuine investment that faculty and co-residents make in one another’s growth. One of her favorite learning experiences has been hospital medicine, where she enjoys caring for patients during hospitalization and continuing those relationships in the clinic.

Outside of medicine, Kate loves spending time outdoors skiing, mountain biking, backpacking, and trail running. She also enjoys baking, knitting, and hosting friends and family for dinner with her husband. For Kate, life in Idaho offers the perfect combination of meaningful medicine, community, and plenty of opportunities to get outside.

Ryan Cox, DO

Dr. Ryan Cox is a Southeast Idaho native who is excited to return home and serve the community that raised him. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Microbiological Sciences from Idaho State University and, before medical school, explored a variety of careers including medical research, sales, entrepreneurship, and working as a medical assistant in dermatology. He attended Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Ivins, Utah.

Ryan initially planned to pursue dermatology, but his first Family Medicine rotation in rural Blackfoot quickly changed his plans. He was drawn to the opportunity to care for the whole person, build lasting relationships, and help patients achieve the health and wellness needed to enjoy the people and activities they love. For Ryan, Family Medicine is about more than treating illness—it is about helping patients live healthier, more active, and fulfilling lives.

Ryan has a particular interest in sports medicine, musculoskeletal ultrasound, preventive and lifestyle medicine, and health optimization. His long-term goal is to practice Family Medicine in Pocatello and serve the community he has always called home.

Ryan chose Idaho State University’s Family Medicine Residency because it gave him the opportunity to return to Pocatello while caring for a diverse and complex patient population. He especially appreciates the supportive faculty, the breadth of clinical experiences, and the friendships he has built with his co-residents.

Outside of the hospital, Ryan enjoys spending time with his wife and kids and staying active. He can often be found mountain biking, skiing, lifting weights, golfing, or playing a competitive game of pickleball. He loves making the most of Southeast Idaho’s outdoors and hopes to bring that same passion for an active, healthy lifestyle to his work with patients.

Lael Davis, MD

Rural Training Program Resident, Rupert

Dr. Kong Davis grew up in Knoxville, Tennessee, and now considers Teton Valley, Idaho, home. Before joining the residency program, Kong practiced as an Urgent Care and Family Medicine provider in the Ozarks. His experiences in clinical practice strengthened his passion for holistic, patient-centered care and his commitment to serving communities where access to healthcare can be limited. He attended Ross University School of Medicine.

Kong was drawn to Family Medicine because of the opportunity to care for the whole person and build meaningful relationships with patients and their families. He is passionate about rural medicine and hopes to continue serving underserved communities throughout his career. He also hopes to advocate for Assistant Physicians and expand opportunities for healthcare professionals to provide care in areas with limited access to medical services.

Kong chose Idaho State University’s Family Medicine Residency because of the strong mentorship, excellent facilities, and supportive community of residents. He has especially enjoyed being part of a team that encourages growth while preparing residents to provide high-quality, full-spectrum care.

Outside of medicine, Kong enjoys taking advantage of Idaho’s lakes and rivers. Whether he’s spending time outdoors or casting a line, he is always happy to have a fishing buddy along for the adventure!

Taylor Jolley, DO

Dr. Taylor Jolley grew up in Shelley, Idaho, and earned a degree in Biomedical Science from BYU-Idaho, where he also met his wife. During his gap year, Taylor started a trucking company and made the most of his time waiting at warehouses by studying for the MCAT. He later attended Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Utah.

Taylor’s passion for medicine was shaped by spending two years serving in Ghana, including participating in a medical mission in Accra. The experience deepened his desire to care for underserved communities and reinforced his commitment to providing compassionate, accessible healthcare.

Taylor was drawn to Family Medicine because of the opportunity to practice full-spectrum medicine while developing lasting relationships with entire families. He chose Idaho State University’s Family Medicine Residency because of its comprehensive training, close-knit community, and proximity to family. He particularly enjoys the supportive, team-based culture and the frequent opportunities for residents and their families to connect outside the hospital.

Taylor has a special interest in women’s health and OB/GYN and hopes to continue developing his skills in these areas throughout residency. Outside of medicine, he enjoys mountain biking and spending time working on his house and yard. He and his wife are currently tackling a full-scale home remodel, keeping life busy both inside and outside the hospital!

Keegan Koeneman, MD

Dr. Keegan Koeneman grew up in Hugo, Minnesota, and studied Kinesiology in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. During a gap year before medical school, Keegan worked at a memory care facility and a home for survivors of traumatic brain injuries. These experiences provided a meaningful perspective on the importance of compassionate, patient-centered care and strengthened a desire to pursue medicine. Keegan attended Creighton University School of Medicine in Omaha, Nebraska.

Keegan was drawn to Family Medicine because of the opportunity to care for the whole person throughout every stage of life. The specialty’s ability to support patients through both medical and personal challenges, while building lasting relationships along the way, is what makes Family Medicine such a rewarding fit.

Keegan chose this residency for its friendly, caring, and jovial environment and enjoys being part of a supportive community. Outside of medicine, Keegan loves staying active and spending time outdoors. Favorite pastimes include basketball, weightlifting, and fly-fishing—making Idaho an exciting place to call home during residency.

Josh Kostansek, MD

Rural Training Program Resident, Rupert

Rural Training Program Resident, Rupert

Dr. Joshua Kostansek, grew up in Gainesville, Florida, and has called Idaho home since 2019. He completed his undergraduate studies at Santa Fe Community College before serving a two-year ecclesiastical mission in Texas. After moving to Idaho, he earned his B.S. in Biomedical Sciences from BYU-Idaho and went on to work for more than a year in a rural Family Medicine clinic before attending the University of Washington School of Medicine.

Growing up as one of the oldest children in a large family, Joshua developed an early appreciation for building relationships and helping others. That experience continues to shape his approach to medicine and his desire to understand each patient as an individual. He was drawn to Family Medicine because of the opportunity to build meaningful, long-term relationships with patients and generations of families.

Joshua chose Idaho State University’s Family Medicine Residency because of its family-friendly culture and reputation for developing well-rounded physicians prepared to practice in a variety of settings. He particularly appreciates the people he works alongside and the opportunity to learn from physicians who are not only excellent clinicians, but also genuinely invested in their patients and residents. He has especially enjoyed caring for critically ill patients in the hospital and having meaningful conversations about their individual goals of care.

Joshua has a special interest in palliative care and patient education and hopes to provide care that reflects each patient’s values, needs, and goals. Outside of medicine, he enjoys spending time with his wife and kids, playing games with family and friends, and making the most of family time. He also plays piano, enjoys chess, and considers himself an above-average cook. And when it comes to favorite foods, Joshua is always happy with just about anything served on a hamburger bun!

Noah Manestar, MD

Dr. Noah Manestar grew up in rural Tennessee and developed an early understanding of the challenges faced by communities with limited access to healthcare. Before medical school, he worked in construction and as an auto mechanic, served as a medical missionary, participated in disaster response, and educated others through the Community Emergency Response Team. He attended Loma Linda University School of Medicine.

Noah’s experiences working alongside people in rural communities, combined with multiple medical mission trips beginning in high school, inspired his desire to pursue medicine. He saw firsthand the need for accessible primary care and knew he wanted to dedicate his career to serving underserved rural populations.

Noah chose Idaho State University’s Family Medicine Residency for its strong educational experience, unopposed program structure, welcoming community, and incredible access to outdoor recreation. He has especially enjoyed getting to know his fellow residents, learning from faculty, and making a meaningful difference in the lives of his patients.

He describes the residency culture as welcoming, friendly, driven, and adventurous. Outside of medicine, Noah enjoys performance driving, mountain biking, hiking, running, climbing, and camping. For him, residency is the perfect opportunity to pursue his passion for rural medicine while enjoying the many outdoor adventures Idaho has to offer.

Braden Morgan, MD

Rural Training Program Resident, Rexburg

Rural Training Program Resident, Rexburg

Dr. Braden Morgan grew up in Rexburg, Idaho, and is excited to return home for his Family Medicine training through the ISU Rexburg Rural Training Track. After graduating from Idaho State University, he attended St. George’s University School of Medicine, gaining experience with diverse patients and healthcare systems through training in Grenada and New York City.

Braden was drawn to Family Medicine because of the opportunity to provide full-spectrum care while building lasting relationships with patients and families. He chose the Rexburg Rural Training Track for its hands-on training, strong mentorship, and opportunity to serve the community that shaped him. His professional interests include sports medicine, preventive care, and surgical obstetrics.

Braden describes the residency culture as team-driven, supportive, and focused on helping everyone become the best physician they can be while still enjoying life outside of medicine. When he’s not at the hospital, Braden enjoys spending time with his wife, golfing with family, and relaxing with a favorite TV show. His current favorite? Breaking Bad.

Brandon Pace, DO

Dr. Brandon Pace is a proud USU Aggie who earned his degree in Biological Engineering before attending Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine in Southern Utah. While living in Colombia, Brandon saw firsthand the need for accessible primary care, inspiring his passion for Family Medicine and his desire to break down barriers to healthcare, particularly for immigrant communities. He is fluent in Spanish.

Brandon is especially interested in Lifestyle and Movement Medicine and using motivational interviewing to help patients build healthy, sustainable habits. He chose Idaho State University’s Family Medicine Residency for its supportive faculty, strong sense of belonging, and family-oriented culture.

Outside of medicine, Brandon enjoys trail running, reading epic fantasy novels, and spending time with his family. According to his kids, he also makes the best Mickey Mouse pancakes around!

Mckay Smith, DO

Dr. Mckay Smith grew up in Alberta, Canada, working on his family’s pig farm and later earned a degree in Exercise Science from BYU. Before medical school, Mckay and his wife built out a van and spent six months traveling with their two children. He went on to attend the Idaho College of Osteopathic Medicine and now enjoys calling Pocatello home with his wife and their four children.

Mckay was drawn to Family Medicine because, much like life on the farm, every day is different. He enjoys the variety of caring for patients of all ages while incorporating procedures, emergency medicine, wilderness medicine, and sports medicine. He chose ISU’s Family Medicine Residency for its collaborative community, full-spectrum training, and the opportunity to raise his family in Pocatello.

His professional interests include OMT, wilderness medicine, rural emergency medicine, endurance sports medicine, and point-of-care ultrasound. Outside of medicine, Mckay enjoys training for ultramarathons, camping, survival skills, and playing board games with his family. And if there’s a tractor nearby, there’s a good chance he’ll find an excuse to operate it!