3 Questions for the 2025 Barrow Graduating Class

As we wrap up another academic year at Barrow Neurological Institute, we’re celebrating the latest graduates of our training programs in neurosurgery, neurology, neuroradiology, physical therapy, and research.

We asked our 2025 graduates to reflect on their experiences at Barrow by sharing their most memorable moments, the advice they would give to their younger selves on their first day of training at the Institute, and which individuals at Barrow served as their biggest influences. We’ve compiled their responses below.

“To the 2025 Barrow Graduates: We celebrate not just your achievement, but the resilience, compassion, and integrity that brought you here. You have grown not only in knowledge, but in purpose—and the world will be better for it. As you move forward, remember that your journey at Barrow is not something you leave behind; it is something you carry with you. You are forever part of the Barrow family, woven into its story and always welcome in its halls. What you have done here matters—but even more, who you have become here matters. Take that with you into the world with courage and humility. The road ahead will ask much of you, but you are ready. Godspeed in your next chapter—we are proud of you, and we are always in your corner.”

–Terry D. Fife, MD, Designated Institutional Official, Graduate Medical Education, Barrow Neurological Institute

Neurosurgery Residents

“Congratulations on achieving this significant milestone you’ve worked so hard for. As you embark on the next phase of your careers, I hope your passion for neurology continues to inspire you, your curiosity leads to important discoveries, and your compassion makes a difference in the lives of many. The future of neurology is promising because of your dedication.”

– Daniel Gonzalez, MD, Neurology Residency Program Director

Laura Collins, MD

New role: Epilepsy Fellow, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona

1. My most memorable moments at Barrow were attending the life events of my fellow residents, including birthdays, baby showers, and more.
2. The advice I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow would be to take a breath and do your best. It’s OK not to be perfect, and everyone grows at their own speed.
3. The people at Barrow who have influenced me the most are Dr. Susan Herman and Dr. Vladimir Shvarts.

Giovanni Malaty, MD

New role: Clinical and DBS Movement Disorders Fellow, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona

1. My most memorable moments at Barrow were spending time with my co-residents in our 4N workroom, drinking coffee, trading stories, and occasionally competing in geography trivia.
2. The advice I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow would be that you can’t (and won’t) learn all that there is to know in neurology; it’s simply too much. Try to learn one new thing per day, and after the 1,460 days of neurology residency, you’ll have learned at least 1,460 new things.
3. The people at Barrow who have influenced me the most are my co-residents—who represent the best of humanity and whom I will consider lifelong friends—and my attendings—who filled my time in residency with joy, amusement, and wonder. I am particularly grateful to Drs. Daniel Gonzalez, Michael Robers, Erik Ortega, Kerry Knievel, and Nicki Niemann.

Brandon May, MD

New role: Vascular Neurology Fellow, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina

1. There were many memorable moments throughout training at Barrow. Several of the Grand Rounds presentations have been eye opening and practice changing. In addition, there were many moments of struggle and triumph during solo night shifts as a PGY-2.
2. If I could give my younger self advice upon starting training, I would advise myself to go up north to the mountains more often and go snowboarding more often in the winter.
3. Several mentors have had a large impact on my development as a physician, specifically Dr. David Wang, who has been my faculty mentor for my entire time at Barrow and who has rendered strong support from the beginning.

Christine Stevens, MD

New role: Neuromuscular Fellow, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington

1. My most memorable moments at Barrow were managing 10 acute stroke codes in one night, getting burgers and shakes with faculty and other residents in San Diego at the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) Annual Meeting, and viewing Dr. Evan Dishion’s plaque in the Healing Garden.
2. The advice I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow would be that there’s always time to eat and use the restroom.
3. The people at Barrow who have influenced the most are my co-residents.

Graduates who did not submit responses:

Neurosurgery Residents

“The four of you have demonstrated growth, wisdom, fortitude, and stewardship throughout your journey at the Barrow. Congratulations on yet another commencement; the scrimmage is finally over. Be courageous in your caring commitment to patients.”

 –Francisco A. Ponce, MD, Neurosurgery Residency Program Director

Joseph DiDomenico, MD

New role: Neurosurgeon, Barrow Neurological Institute, Gilbert, Arizona

1. My most memorable moments at Barrow were the many shared experiences in and out of the hospital. From problem solving alongside my co-residents to the learning opportunities from our faculty, this institution has provided me with more enjoyment and fulfillment than I ever could have imagined. Outside of the hospital, my wife and I will cherish the countless memories with this group and the family they have all become to us.
2. The advice I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow would be to stay present and embrace the moments. These seven years will pass faster than you can imagine, and they will be some of the most meaningful and rewarding of your life.
3. All of the faculty at Barrow have had a profound impact on my surgical development, and I’m deeply grateful to each of them. I’m especially thankful to Dr. Jay Turner for an incredible enfolded fellowship experience. Lastly, I would like to acknowledge my fellow residents and the OR staff—this remarkable group has been instrumental in my growth, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.

Charuta Furey, MD

New role: Neuro-Oncology Fellow, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas

1. My most memorable moments at Barrow were going through residency—especially those formative junior years—alongside an extraordinary group of co-residents, nurses, and OR staff. The camaraderie, resilience, and sense of shared purpose during those times will always stand out.
2. The advice I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow would be that neurosurgery is the closest thing we have to restoring a person’s humanity. Never lose sight of how privileged you are to have matched into the best specialty, at the best training program, with the best group of co-residents. Approach each day with gratitude and humility.
3. The tumor faculty—Drs. Nader Sanai, Michael Lawton, Andrew Little, and Kris Smith—have left an indelible mark on me, and it has been a true privilege to be trained by them. Equally influential have been the brain tumor patients whose care they entrusted to me; their courage and trust have shaped the neurosurgeon I aspire to be.

Graduates who did not submit responses:

Neurology Fellows

Sarah Ahmad, MD

New role: Assistant Clinical Professor/Vascular Neurologist and Neurohospitalist, University of California-Davis, Department of Neurology, School of Medicine, Davis, California

1. My most memorable moments at Barrow were:
   • Hearing the helicopter land after I accepted a patient from another hospital.
   • Witnessing the patients whom I accepted and managed overnight with the resident improve with our stroke interventions.
   • Making an interesting diagnosis on a patient initially thought to be a stroke but was ultimately a unique non-stroke condition.
   • A hug from a patient’s family member with tears of appreciation for spending the time to explain the patient’s complex condition and treatment plan.
2. The advice I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow would be to have fun, learn as much as you can, and remember the year will go by more quickly than you expect.
3. The people at Barrow who have influenced the most are:
   • Dr. David Wang—for believing in my potential from the start of my fellowship and for his teaching, encouragement, and support during challenging times.
   • Dr. Supreet Kaur—for being an amazing teacher to myself and other learners, for her support and advice on my career advancement, and for being an example of an excellent clinician-educator and researcher in academic medicine.

Jonathan Daniels, MD

New role: Physician, Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix, Phoenix, Arizona

1. My most memorable moments at Barrow were all of the moments working with the talented clinic team of nurses, medical assistants, therapists, and social workers in helping to improve the day-to-day lives of our neuromuscular patients.
2. The advice I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow would be to end each day asking yourself, “What did you learn from this?”
3. The people at Barrow who have influenced the most are Drs. Erik Ortega and Shafeeq Ladha.

John Eaton, MD

New role: Epileptologist, Overlake Medical Center, Epilepsy Program, Greater Seattle Area, Washington

1. My most memorable moments are Barrow were the many interesting intracranial EEG cases, the complicated discussions with patients about goals of surgery versus risks, trying to tease apart what in the brain does what, and being able to stimulate someone’s brain to cause them to wipe their nose subconsciously.
2. The advice I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow would be that although EEG is very difficult, you will build confidence in deciphering the toughest cases and your faculty will do an excellent job teaching you this technique with a high skill ceiling.
3. The people at Barrow who have influenced the most are all of my epilepsy faculty. Each one of them brought their incredible skill and a unique approach to reading EEG, staffing my clinic, and presenting their individual strengths when it comes to research, public health, patient-centered care, systems-based practice, and patient counseling. It’s impossible to pick just one person when my training would be insufficient without the combination of all of their perspectives.

Rachna Khanna, MD

New role: Neuroimmunologist, Kaiser Permanente Downey Medical Center, Downey, California

1. There is so much that is memorable. From trips to the hospital for inpatient consults to full-day clinics that ultimately end at 6 p.m., the provider team and support staff are still smiling and laughing as we get the privilege to help those in need. My time at Barrow will impact my clinical decision making and work ethic for the rest of my career.
2. The advice I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow would be to take more risks to try to learn as much as you can. Barrow provides such a safe and supportive learning environment, and there is not a better place to be curious and take chances.
3. The entire neuroimmunology faculty team has been so warm and supportive with my fellowship year, including Drs. Aimee Borazanci, Huiam Mubarak, Rinu Abraham and Michael Robers. Each person offered personal mentorship to me, and I am forever grateful for the opportunity to train with the Barrow neuroimmunology work family.

Holly Laub, DO

New role: Neurologist/Movement Disorder Specialist, Banner Sun Health Research Institute, Sun City, Arizona

1. The most memorable and rewarding moment that I have had within the past two years of fellowship is with the initial and follow-up deep brain stimulation (DBS) programming of a Parkinson’s patient. This particular patient was no longer having sufficient symptomatic control with his oral medications, so he underwent DBS for further symptomatic management. His daughter was getting married, so one of his goals following DBS was to be able to walk her down the aisle, have a father-daughter dance, and give a father-of-the-bride speech without difficulty due to his Parkinson’s symptoms. With DBS programming, he was able to achieve all of these goals.
2. The advice I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow would be to learn something from every patient, stay curious, never be afraid to ask questions, and enjoy the journey.
3. The people who have influenced me the most at Barrow include Drs. Holly Shill, Naomi Salins, Justine Chan, Guillermo Moguel-Cobos, and Nicki Niemann.

Arielle Lehman, MD

New role: Director of Sports Neurology, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York City, New York

1. My most memorable moments at Barrow were working the sidelines for Arizona State University football and hockey games.
2. The people at Barrow who have influenced me the most are Dr. Glynnis Zieman and Dr. Yvette Brown-Shirley.

DeJarra Rivera, MD

New role: Behavioral Neurologist, Atrium Health, Charlotte, North Carolina

1. My most memorable moments at Barrow were related to providing patient and care-partner education about different types of cognitive impairments.
2. The advice that I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow would be that it is OK if you currently do not know the correct answers; just continue to ask questions, learn, and develop each day.
3. There are so many amazing people who have influenced me during my time at Barrow. The cognitive faculty have played a pivotal role in advancing my ability to provide care for patients with a wide range of cognitive impairments, with particular recognition to Drs. Yonas Geda, Anna Burke, and Marwan Sabbagh. Additionally, the neurology residency coordinator, Ann Chowdhury-Johnson; the neurology fellowship coordinator, Lisa Clark-Imperial; and the administrative coordinator, Cindy Walland, have played a significant role in exemplifying the importance of punctuality and organization. I have truly had a wonderful fellowship training experience at Barrow.

Zahir Sheikh, MD

New role: Neurologist; General Neurology, Neuromuscular Medicine, and Neuro-Ophthalmology; Overlake Medical Center, Bellevue, Washington

1. My most memorable moments at Barrow were working and sharing laughs with my attendings, peers, and patients. Our team in neuromuscular medicine is absolutely incredible.
2. The advice that I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow would be to trust your intuition, and be more confident in your assessments and decision making.
3. The people at Barrow who have influenced the most are all three of my attendings, Dr. Erik Ortega, Dr. Shafeeq Ladha, and Dr. Ayushi Chugh, as well as my co-fellow Dr. Jon Daniels.

Neurology Fellows

Winward Choy, MD

New role: Neurosurgeon, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California

1. My most memorable moments at Barrow were building relationships with friends and mentors over the year.
2. The advice I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow would be to embrace the new culture and invest in the people as much as the training.
3. I have been influenced the most by my mentor and fellowship director, Dr. Juan S. Uribe.

Eleonora Spinazzi, MD

New role: Assistant Professor Neurosurgery, Columbia University, New York City, New York

1. My most memorable moment at Barrow was being inducted at Craniotome. That was hands down the most unforgettable moment of the year.
2. The advice I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow would be: Don’t overthink it. Trust your training, stay present, take each challenge as it comes, and enjoy the ride.
3. The people at Barrow who have influenced the most are Dr. Felipe Albuquerque—an extraordinary mentor—and my co-fellows, Drs. Joelle Hartke Noon and Sam Hall—couldn’t have done it without them.

Graduates who did not submit responses:

Neurosurgery Research Fellows

Temesgen Assefa, MD

1. My most memorable moments at Barrow were Friday morning Grand Rounds.
2. The advice I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow would be: Do not hesitate to inquire and to learn as much as you can from the experts around you.
3. I have been influenced the most by Barrow itself, where you can get excellence in neuroscience education, training, research, innovation, and international partnership all in one place.

Juan Pedro Giraldo, MD

New role: Neurosurgery Resident, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina

1. Launching the Sonntag VR Lab and seeing our work directly impact surgical education was a defining experience during my time at Barrow. It proved that with the right team and support, innovation can thrive in neurosurgery.
2. The advice I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow would be to take initiative early. Ask questions, stay focused, and make the most of every opportunity—especially the ones that push you out of your comfort zone.
3. Drs. Juan Uribe, Laura Snyder, Jay Turner, F. David Barranco, Michael T. Lawton, and Francisco Ponce all played key roles in my development through their mentorship, trust, and leadership. I would also like to give a special thanks to all of the residents and clinical fellows in my journey, since they were instrumental in my career development.

Jonathan Tangsrivimol, MD

New role: Attending Neurosurgeon, Chulabhorn Hospital; Lecturer, Princess Srisavangavadhana Faculty of Medicine, Chulabhorn Royal Academy; Bangkok, Thailand

1. One of my most memorable experiences at Barrow was being entrusted by Dr. Mark Preul to lead a project utilizing AI-based hand tracking to enhance microanastomosis skills. This initiative not only allowed me to improve my own technique but also contributed to the development of a training tool for young neurosurgeons and residents. I am deeply grateful to Dr. Xu Yuan and Thomas On—this project would not have been possible without their invaluable support and collaboration.
2. The advice I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow would be to remember that you are fortunate to train under Dr. Preul, an outstanding mentor and deeply supportive leader. He will help you achieve everything you aspire to, and you will quickly realize that his experience and dedication are second to none. Trust his guidance, and make the most of every opportunity.
3. While Dr. Preul has been an exceptional mentor during my time at Barrow, I would also like to acknowledge Dr. Michael T. Lawton. I had the opportunity to collaborate with him on an AI project, and his profound surgical expertise and academic insight helped me appreciate the dynamic cycle of innovation, translating ideas from the lab to the OR and the OR back to the lab.

Graduates who did not submit responses:

Neuroradiology Fellows

“To the graduating neuroradiology class of 2025: I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations on completing this remarkable chapter. Your fellowship has sculpted you into exceptional physicians, armed with profound knowledge and a deep commitment to patient care. As you move forward, carry the confidence of a foundation crafted through your unwavering dedication and skill. This moment isn’t just a conclusion—it’s the dawn of a lifelong mission to heal, learn, and inspire. On behalf of all the neuroradiology staff, we are immensely proud of your achievements and eager to witness the profound difference you’ll make. Wishing you boundless success and fulfillment in all that lies ahead.”

 –Jeremy Hughes, MD, Neuroradiology Fellowship Program Director

Matthew Calhoun, MD

New role: Neuroradiologist, Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, Gilbert, Arizona

1. My most memorable moment at Barrow was learning about the Institute on the first day.
2. The advice I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow would be to spend as much time learning and becoming the best at what you do from the beginning.
3. The person at Barrow who has influenced me the most is Dr. John Karis. He is instrumental in the success of Barrow neuroradiology and highly accomplished with MRI.

Dallin Christensen, DO

New role: Radiologist, Logan Radiology Group, Logan, Utah

1. I will always remember the donor labs that Dr. Jeremy Hughes organized. They helped me build confidence in procedures that are inherently more risky and intimidating to perform without having practiced beforehand.
2. Neuroradiology training can be very demanding. The advice I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow would be to prioritize activities that you can do routinely to fill your bucket outside of training. This will allow you to maintain your enthusiasm for radiology and life.
3. I think the world of the faculty in the Department of Neuroradiology at Barrow. I have to give a specific shout-out to Dr. Raza Mushtaq, though. He has been a mentor to me starting in residency and has deeply shaped my experience through training. I cannot adequately express my appreciation for his willingness and enthusiasm in helping me with several research projects, conversations regarding fellowship, and guidance in creating the type of career I hope to build in the future. With that said, I want to thank all of the faculty for their mentorship and the experience I have gained while at Barrow. I hope my future group’s culture will have at least half of the friendship and camaraderie that this group has.

Alex Clinkenbeard, MD

New role: Private Practice Neuroradiologist, Colorado

1. The moments at Barrow I enjoyed most were those spent in the reading room with my co-fellows and staff.
2. The advice I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow would be that it’s a fun but quick year, so enjoy it.
3. All of the faculty are fantastic. I would like to give a special “thank you” to Dr. Raza Mushtaq, who was a fantastic mentor and an absolute delight to work with.

Matthew Loewen, MD

New role: Diagnostic Radiologist, Diagnostic Radiology of Anderson, Anderson, South Carolina

1. My most memorable moment at Barrow was my first evening call shift. I saw more positive neuro cases that evening than the whole year prior. I knew at that moment I was going to learn a lot over the course of the year.
2. The advice I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow would be to see as many cases as possible.
3. All of the neuroradiology staff have been great to work with and influenced me in their own ways.

David Norton, MD

New role: Neuroradiologist, Baylor Scott & White Medical Center, Austin, Texas

1. My most memorable moment at Barrow was the Grand Canyon hike.
2. The advice I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow would be that the year will go by quickly, so get a mountain bike early in the year.
3. The person at Barrow who has influenced the most is Dr. John Karis.

Mathew Smith, MD

New role: Consultant Neuroradiologist, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona

1. My most memorable moments at Barrow were putting together education content for the residents and fellows.
2. The advice I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow would be to have fun.
3. The people at Barrow who have influenced me the most are the neuroradiologists.

Austin Svec, MD

New role: Neuroradiologist, Phoenix, Arizona

1. There have been so many incredible mentors here over the years of residency and fellowship. Their wisdom and support have helped me navigate challenges, build confidence, and develop skills that have shaped me both personally and professionally. I am so thankful to have found a place with so many amazing people.

Graduates who did not submit responses:

ASU-Barrow Neuroscience PhD Program

“I am incredibly proud of the achievements of our Barrow PhD graduates this year, Dr. Ryan Pevey and Dr. Elizabeth Keeling. It is a privilege to support and mentor students as they advance the frontiers of neuroscience. Their research holds great promise for improving care and developing new treatments for individuals living with neurological disorders.”

–Rita Sattler, PhD, MSc, Director of Research Education and Co-Director of ASU-Barrow Neuroscience PhD Program

Elizabeth Keeling, PhD

New role: Postdoctoral Fellow, Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee

1. My most memorable moments at Barrow were the day-to-day work with the Barrow Neuroimaging Innovation Center team. It was a true pleasure to work with this group.
2. The advice I would give to my younger self on the first day of the PhD Program would be that consistent effort will result in long-term growth and progress.
3. The person at Barrow who has influenced me the most is Ashley Stokes, PhD, who served as my PhD advisor.

Ryan Pevey, PhD

New role: Founder, Evolio LLC, Seattle, Washington

1. My most memorable moments at Barrow were going for coffee with my lab mates.
2. The advice I would give to my younger self on my first day of the PhD Program would be: Take your time and take care of yourself.
3. The people at Barrow who have influenced me the most are Dr. Nadine Bakkar, Sara Bowen, Chelsea Tran, and all members of the Sattler Lab.

PT Neurologic Residency Program

“To our graduating physical therapy residents, congratulations on reaching this incredible milestone. Your dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to excellence have led to this well-deserved achievement. We are immensely proud of the growth you’ve demonstrated throughout your residency, achieving the knowledge, skills, and compassion to make a significant impact on the lives of your patients. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors and look forward to seeing the amazing things you will accomplish.”

–Risa Maruyama, PT, Director of the Physical Therapy Neurologic Residency Program

Torin Foundos, PT, DPT

New role: Physical Therapist, Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix, Arizona

1. My most memorable moments at Barrow were the moments when a patient took their first assisted steps after a severe neurologic injury/event. There were a number of times this happened throughout the residency, so it is hard to focus on one particular time. But the moments after these initial steps and the increase in hope, belief, and happiness on patients’ faces make this the best job in the world.
2. The advice I would give to my younger self on my first day of training at Barrow would be to enjoy the process of learning and failing, because every failed trial/attempt is an opportunity to learn and grow as a clinician.
3. The people who influenced me the most at Barrow are, first, all of my mentors throughout the residency in each rotation; Barb, Beth, Megan, Katie, and Brenda have all taught me invaluable lessons, which have helped me grow into a confident and well-rounded clinician who is excited to continue to grow. I also want to give a shout-out to all of the speech therapists, occupational therapists, physicians, nurses, and recreational therapists whom I have worked closely with this year. They have been a major influence into looking at situations from a different lens/perspective and improving my interdisciplinary skills. Finally, I want to give a special thanks to Risa and Rachel for giving me this opportunity to come here as a resident and provide me the chance to learn from all these great and special people here at Barrow.

Toni Underwood, PT, DPT

1. My most memorable moment at Barrow was working with an individual with a spinal cord injury and paraplegia and helping her perform a floor transfer for the first time, 10 years after her injury.
2. On my first day of training at Barrow, I would advise my younger self to take a deep breath, trust in my knowledge, and advocate for myself when needed.
3. My biggest influences at Barrow have been my mentors Danielle, Andrea, and Katie for helping me to further develop my skills and become a more confident clinician.

Please note: Some responses have been edited for style and clarity. Illustration by Hannah Koffman, Barrow Neuroscience Publications.