Fifth-Year Residents
Tariq Ayubi, M.D.
I'm coming from Northern Virginia, from a blue-collar family, and am one of the first few in my family to go to college and medical school. I chose ETSU because I wanted to learn how to become a general surgeon with a broad-based focus. This program sees a wide range of advanced pathology, where residents feel safe and comfortable taking care of and operating on early in their residency. In my free time I love exploring the downtown area, 3D printing, and building aquariums.
Undergraduate: Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA
Medical: Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine
Alyssa Brown, M.D.
I grew up in Wilmington, Massachusetts, but spent the last four years calling New Orleans, Louisiana, home. The ETSU general surgery program was a good fit for me because of the wide range of surgical experiences, high operative volume and the opportunity to pursue global surgery interests. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my fiancé and working toward our goal of visiting all the national parks in the United States. I also enjoy baking, spending time at the beach and figure skating. I am looking forward to exploring the mountains around ETSU and having more time for activities such as hiking, kayaking, whitewater rafting and ziplining.
Undergraduate: St. Lawrence University, Canton, NY Graduate School: Northeastern University, Boston, MA Medical School: Tulane University, New Orleans, LA.
Charlotte Hawkins, M.D.
I grew up in Richmond, VA and went to Coastal Carolina University, where I majored in Marine Science. I chose ETSU for the early operative experience, broad-based training, and supportive learning environment. I am very interested in Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery and was drawn to ETSU as this program allows me to gain excellent experience in both of these fields. In my free time, I enjoy scuba diving, yoga, and exploring the great outdoors.
Undergraduate: Coastal Carolina University
Medical: University of South Carolina School of Medicine
Neil Horsley, M.D.
My healthcare career began as a certified nursing assistant during my undergraduate studies. This experience gave me the honor and privilege of directly serving patients; as their CNA, I was often the staff member they saw most each day. Now, as a physician, I cherish the physician-patient relationship and am dedicated to embracing humanism in medicine. During interviews, it was evident that the faculty and staff of ETSU’s general surgery residency program share this goal and are committed to training surgeons who are not only competent, highly skilled technicians but also superb clinicians. When I am not at the hospital, I may be found hiking Roan Mountain, sipping yerba mate or playing a game of chess.
Undergraduate & Graduate: University of Kentucky
Medical: University of Kentucky Medical School
Wyatt Whicker, M.D.
I was born in Memphis, TN, and spent most of my summers on our family cattle farm in Kentucky. I moved to Johnson City for Medical School and met my wife here. I chose ETSU because operative experience, the unique patient population, and the supportive culture within the program. During my free time my wife and I enjoy hiking with our dogs, ballroom dancing, and playing board games.
Undergraduate: University of Mississippi
Medical: East Tennessee State University
Fourth-Year Residents
Luke Anders, M.D.
ETSU equips its surgery residents to become competent general surgeons or competitive specialists, all while being nestled in the beautiful Appalachian Mountains, which recharge my mind and body during time off. I am proud to call Johnson City my home.
Undergraduate: University of Georgia
Medical School: Medical College of Georgia, Augusta, Georgia.
Brandon Fazalare, M.D.
I grew up in Shinnston, WV, where I spent most of my time outdoors. I majored in Exercise Physiology at West Virginia University and later attended Marshall University for Medical School. I chose ETSU for the high-volume, broad-based training in all aspects of surgery, including exposure to numerous sub-specialties. This program provides the experience required to dive into practice directly out of residency and the pedigree to pursue a fellowship, if desired. The residents and faculty promote a true family-like atmosphere and make it enjoyable to come to work every day. In my free time I can be found on the water, chasing fish with a fly rod or duck hunting.
Undergraduate: West Virginia University, Morgantown, West Virginia
Medical: Marshall University, Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine
Laura Mann, D.O.
I am originally from Virginia and moved to South Carolina for medical school. I chose ETSU because everyone is so kind, welcoming, and fun. Additionally, they are very skilled physicians who are involved in their communities. My husband and I are excited to explore our new home in Johnson City! We love to be outdoors, travel, dance, sing showtunes and play with our two rescue pups.
Undergraduate: George Mason University
Medical: VCOM Carolinas, Spartanburg, SC.
Abigail Owens, D.O.
I was born and raised in Bristol, TN, and am so happy to be back in the Tri-Cities! I majored in Nutrition at the University of Tennessee and went to medical school at Campbell University School of Osteopathic Medicine. I chose ETSU as my surgery residency because of the early operative experience and the wonderful people I met in the interview process. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, going to the lake, and cycling.
Undergraduate: University of Tennessee
Medical: Campbell University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Harnett County, NC.
Brandon Petree, D.O.
I was born and raised in Indianapolis, IN, from a blue collar family where I am the only one in healthcare. I am fortunate to have an opportunity to be a part of an ETSU program because it provides a broad general surgical training experience equivalent to a major academic center despite being a community hospital. It provides us the opportunity to treat a wide range of pathologies in an underserved community. I spend my free time with my significant other and our corgi, Herbie, where we enjoy exploring new restaurants and outdoor experiences.
Undergraduate: Indian University
Medical: College of Osteopathic Medicine, Fort Smith, Arkansas.
R. Peyton Powell, D.O.
I chose ETSU because of the emphasis on broad-based general surgery as well as the surgical sub-specialties. The program truly wants you to be the best version of yourself you can be as well as a remarkable surgeon. In my free time, I can be found hunting, fishing, or cheering on the Crimson Tide. My wife, Shayla, is a physical therapist. We have two dogs named Daisy & Willow who enjoy fetch much more than I do.
Undergraduate & Graduate: University of Alabama
Medical School: Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine
Third-Year Residents
Aws Ahmed, D.O.
I grew up in Baghdad, Iraq. I came to the United States in 2014 and continued to pursue my dream of becoming a surgeon. I have grown to love and call tri-cities my home. My wife is currently at ETSU working on a PhD in Neuroscience. We enjoy trying new places to eat, exploring the outdoors, and camping.
Undergraduate: University of Texas at El Paso
Research: University of Georgia
Medical: Lincoln Memorial University
Jamal Brazan, M.D.
I grew up in Maryville, TN. I chose ETSU because it is a program where mentorship, camaraderie, and a spirit of inquiry are valued, fostering an environment where I can thrive personally and professionally. My wife, Sarah, is an elementary school teacher and we have one son, Cayson. We love to work-out and try new restaurants in the area.
Undergraduate: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Graduate: Meharry Medical College
Medical School: East Tennessee State University
Nicole Ceausu, M.D.
I am from Knoxville, Tennessee and have had the pleasure of spending the last 4 years at ETSU for medical school. I chose ETSU surgery for their broad-based general surgery exposure, high operative volume, and unique family-oriented culture. I found everyone at the program to be encouraging and kind. I enjoy traveling, cooking, baking, and working out in my free time. I am excited to stay in Johnson City for the next 5 years!
Undergraduate: University of the Cumberlands, Williamsburg, KY
Medical: East Tennessee State University
Summer Jackson, D.O.
I grew up in Rogersville, Tennessee. I am ecstatic to be back in East Tennessee for residency training. I chose ETSU for its supportive learning environment, high operative volume and focus on broad-based general surgery. In my free time, I enjoy cooking, spending time with my family and playing with my dog.
Undergraduate and Graduate School: East Tennessee State University
Medical: Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine, Spartanburg, SC.
John Grant Little, M.D.
I grew up in Knoxville and have spent almost all of my life in Tennessee. After completing a preliminary general surgery year at Wake Forest, I returned to East Tennessee for the completion of my surgical training. ETSU holds a unique position of both embodying a teaching hospital while grounding its roots in the community healthcare environment. Furthermore, it is situated in one of the more majestic parts of the southeast and its mountain vistas make it hard to compete for a better backdrop. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my wife and family, enjoying hunting and fishing, playing piano, as well as tending to our family farm.
Undergraduate: Lipscomb University, Nashville, TN, Medical: UTHSC College of Medicine, Memphis, TN.
Brittany White-Dold, M.D.
I chose ETSU because of its rural focus and its commitment to training competent general surgeons directly out of residency. I enjoy long-distance running, watching Marvel films, and listening to the variety of live music the Tri-Cities has to offer.
Undergraduate: University of Saint Mary, Leavenworth, KA
Medical: University of Kansas, Lawrence, KA.
Second-Year Residents
Dillon Graves, M.D.
I am originally from Bon Aqua, Tennessee, a small town in Middle Tennessee. I grew up there with my two older sisters while my parents were building their own house. This experience instilled in me a respect for the trades and a desire for a career centered on hands-on problem solving. I chose ETSU for my residency because I am confident it produces excellent general surgeons who are ready to work in the community after five years. The beautiful views are a bonus. In my free time, I enjoy playing board games with my fiancé, listening to audiobooks, writing and playing pick-up basketball.
Undergraduate: Union University, Jackson, TN
Medical: University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN
Abbey Johnson, M.D.
I grew up in California and moved to Tennessee in 2017. I worked as an ICU nurse before starting medical school and continue to have a passion for critical care. I was thrilled to stay at ETSU for residency because I knew I would be challenged to become an excellent surgeon while caring for a special patient population. My husband and I love East Tennessee, and we spend our free time with our two young children.
Undergraduate: University of Oregon, University of Tennessee Chattanooga School of
Nursing
Medical: East Tennessee State University
Kaylyn Lazuka, M.D.
I was born and raised in Shelbyville, Tennessee. I taught high school for four years before attending Texas Tech El Paso for medical school. I chose ETSU for its emphasis on global and rural surgery as well as its unique patient population. In my free time, I enjoy woodworking, reading and spending time with my husband, our four dogs and our cat.
Undergraduate: Lipscomb University
Graduate: Lipscomb University, Nashville, TN
Medical: Texas Tech University Health Science Center, El Paso, TX
Matthew Little, D.O.
After completing medical school in North Carolina, my wife and I were excited to return to our home state of Tennessee in 2024 to join the program. ETSU’s Department of Surgery has an established reputation for training and mentoring Tennessee physicians as they develop into capable, caring and team-oriented surgeons, ready for practice and service. The department has a heart for the state and the communities I have been fortunate to call home. In my free time, I enjoy working on our family farm, cultivating and grafting fruit trees, consulting on legislative and campaign efforts within the state, playing guitar and piano, and spending time with family and friends.
Undergraduate: Lipscomb University
Graduate: Lipscomb University M.B.A.
Medical: Campbell University School of Medicine
Willy Jean-Louis, M.D.
I grew up in Cap, a city in northern Haiti. As the first person in my family to pursue a career in medicine, I am excited to develop my surgical skills at ETSU. I chose ETSU because of its dedication to excellence and its commitment to the values of competence, respect and empathy. I also appreciate the genuine camaraderie among residents in the surgical program. I am eager to experience the culture of the Tri-Cities and explore the mountains surrounding Johnson City through hiking and outdoor adventures.
Medical: Université d’Etat d’Haïti, Faculté de Médecine et de Pharmacie
Christopher Morgan, M.D.
I chose ETSU for many reasons, especially the welcoming culture and the breadth of operative exposure. Everyone here treats each other like they have been friends for decades, and they share a genuine love for operating. I also have a twin in the family medicine program in Knoxville, Tennessee, which makes this experience even more special. Outside of training, I am excited to explore everything Johnson City has to offer, including hiking, rafting, food, breweries and local farms.
Undergraduate: University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC
Medical: University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC
William Chandler Swearingen, D.O.
I am originally from Sylacauga, Alabama. I chose ETSU for its strong emphasis on broad-based general surgery and its commitment to fostering an environment that genuinely prioritizes the success of its residents. In my free time, I enjoy running, hiking, playing guitar and watching college football.
Undergraduate: Aurburn University, Auburn, AL
Medical: Edward Via College of Osteopathic
First-Year Residents
Skylarr Beerman, D.O.
I was born in Memphis, Tennessee, and raised in nearby Southaven, Mississippi. After playing football at Mississippi College, I attended medical school at NYITCOM at Arkansas State University. I chose ETSU for its mentorship, high operative volume, early autonomy and strong camaraderie. The program prepares residents for both general surgery practice and fellowship opportunities. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my wife and our dog and cheering on the Tennessee Vols.
Undergraduate: Mississippi College
Graduate: University of Mississippi Medical Center
Medical: NYITCOM at Arkansas State University
Jakob Ball, D.O.
I was born and raised in Williamsport, Maryland. I chose ETSU because of its family atmosphere, strong support system and commitment to helping residents become confident surgeons. The program prepares residents for a variety of career paths, including general surgery and fellowship. Outside of work, I enjoy walking my dogs with my wife, watching sports and playing golf.
Undergraduate: Shepherd University, Shepherdstown, WV
Medical: Lincoln Memorial University DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine, Harrogate,
TN
Cole Bozeman, M.D.
I grew up in Franklin, Tennessee. I chose ETSU because of its early operative experience, broad-based general surgery training and opportunities for subspecialization. The welcoming, supportive culture made staying at ETSU an easy decision. Outside of work, I enjoy watching sports and playing guitar.
Medical School: East Tennessee State University
Sarah Dawson-Moroz, M.D.
I grew up in Massachusetts and have called Tennessee home for the past decade. After working as a clinical researcher and earning my Master of Public Health in Nashville, I attended ETSU for medical school. I chose ETSU's general surgery residency because it prepares residents to become confident, well-rounded surgeons while supporting a variety of career paths. Outside of work, I enjoy reading, writing, cooking, running and spending time with my husband and daughter.
Undergraduate: College of the Holy Cross; Worcester, MAGraduate: Vanderbilt University; Nashville, TN
Medical: East Tennessee State University
Elizabeth Depasquale, D.O.
I grew up in Turtletown, Tennessee, and always hoped to practice medicine in East
Tennessee. I chose ETSU because of its supportive culture, early operative experience
and commitment to developing exceptional surgeons. Outside of work, I enjoy spending
time outdoors, exploring with my husband, refinishing furniture and spending time
with our pets.
Undergraduate: Cleveland State Community College, The University of Tennessee at Cattanooga
Medical: Lincoln Memorial DeBusk College of Osteopathic Medicine
Eliacin Henry, M.D.
I was born in Baie-du-Mesle, Haiti, and raised in Port-au-Prince. I chose ETSU because of its comprehensive training program and focus on preparing residents for diverse surgical careers, including global surgery. I enjoy calling Johnson City home because of its welcoming community and natural beauty. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family, watching movies and playing soccer.
Undergraduate: Université Notre Dame D'Haiti
Medical: Université Notre Dame D'Haiti
Saurav Khadka, M.D.
I am from Nepal and am excited to now call Johnson City and the Appalachian Highlands home. I chose ETSU for its strong sense of community and supportive learning environment. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors, practicing meditation and mindfulness, and spending time with my wife and daughter.
Medical: KIST Medical College, Tribhuvan University, Nepal
Tyler Stoneman, D.O.
I am from Powdersville, South Carolina. I chose ETSU for its supportive, family-oriented culture and broad-based general surgery training. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my wife and daughter, exploring the Tri-Cities and walking our dogs, Hershey and Sherbert.
Undergraduate: Clemson University
Medical: College of Osteopathic Medicine, Carolinas Campus
Isaiah Ware, M.D.
I was born and raised in Columbus, Georgia. I chose ETSU because of its supportive culture, early hands-on experience and strong surgical training. Since arriving, I have felt supported in both my training and long-term goals. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my wife and our dog, hiking and exploring the outdoors.
Undergraduate: Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS
Graduate: Mississippi College, Clinton, MS
Medical: Mercer University School of Medicine, Columbus, GA
Kayla Willis, M.D.
I was born and raised in Abingdon, Virginia. After earning a bachelor's degree in biochemistry, I chose to stay at ETSU for general surgery residency because of its excellent training, early operative experience and supportive environment. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband, Lance, and our mini goldendoodle, Sadie, and exploring East Tennessee.
Undergraduate: University of Virginia
Medical: East Tennessee State University