For the past eight years, Kirsten Stoesser, MD, has served as Program Director for the Family Medicine Residency Program. During her tenure, she has guided the program through some of the most significant challenges and transitions in its history. Through the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Stoesser navigated increased patient care demands and a rapidly changing work environment while prioritizing resident safety and well-being. She also oversaw the transition of the main residency teaching hospital from a community partner to the University Hospital.
Through her steady leadership, resident education and training have strengthened, and residents leave poised to serve and lead in their communities. Dr. Stoesser will transition into new roles within the program, focusing on the expansion of residency training opportunities. We are grateful for Dr. Stoesser’s leadership and the impact she has made on our family medicine residents.
We are pleased to announce that Kara Frame, MD, will step into the Program Director role. Dr. Frame has been an integral part of the residency leadership team, serving as Associate Program Director for nearly eight years. She brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to resident education and training.
“I look forward to continuing to support both the residents and faculty,” said Dr. Frame. “In particular, I’m excited to take on a broader outlook to help guide the direction and culture of the program as a whole as we look toward future opportunities.”
As Dr. Frame transitions into this role, Katherine (Katie) Fortenberry, MD, has accepted the position of Associate Program Director, joining Susan Cochella, MD, who also serves in this role.”
Dr. Fortenberry is a clinical psychologist and clinical professor who has been part of the residency program for 14 years as the program’s behaviorist and champion of resident wellness initiatives. She has also played a key role in expanding clinical rotations in behavioral health settings, enhancing didactic training on mental and behavioral health topics, leading research activities and publications, and building strong community partnerships to support integrated care.
“I’m honored to contribute to our residency program in this new role. This program has shaped so many incredible physicians, and I feel deeply connected to its mission and values,” said Dr. Fortenberry. “I look forward to helping nurture the next generation and continuing the legacy of excellence.”
We extend our deepest thanks to Dr. Stoesser for her years of leadership and service, and we welcome Dr. Frame and Dr. Fortenberry into their new roles.