Elena Paz Munoz
OHSU School of Medicine, MD Candidate 2025
Elena’s unique background has helped her become a role model who recognizes a need in her community and then takes action to address it.
A future dermatologist, her track record of leadership is extensive. Just one of many examples is her involvement in the Latino Medical Student Association (LMSA) where she led outreach efforts that provided life-saving melanoma education, hundreds of skin checks, and eye care for migrant farmworker communities across Oregon.
Cambria Kasten
COMP NW, DO Candidate 2026
Cambria’s calming presence and thoughtful approach to leadership has helped her navigate many difficult conversations. Even before entering medical school, she was trusted by those around her to listen, reflect, and take positive action.
She is also an artist with a deep commitment to open conversations about identity, race, bias, and gender-affirming care, creating safe spaces for others and with benefits that will be both far reaching and long lasting.
Jessica Van Lith
OHSU Physician Assistant Program, PA Candidate 2025
Jess’s medical education has only just begun, and yet she has quickly found her feet! A non-traditional student with a lifelong learner mindset, she leads with empathy and respect for all.
Whether volunteering at Portland Street Medicine or as class representative, she regularly and enthusiastically partners with others to amplify diverse perspectives and achieve positive outcomes.
Hannah Fuson
OHSU School of Medicine, MD Candidate 2026
Hannah faced many obstacles on the path into medical school, and yet through a unique combination of spirit, passion, and pure determination she is making her dreams come true!
As a first-generation student from rural Oregon, Hannah’s life experiences will infuse her practice with both empathy and advocacy, enabling her to not only care for patients but also contribute to policy changes that will uplift others.
Samantha Bowen
COMP NW, DO Candidate 2026
Samantha’s perspective and perseverance set her apart, and while challenging, her lived experiences include the transformative power of mentorship.
As a result, those struggles became successes and she has firmly committed to finding opportunities to pay it forward both in medical school and also as a volunteer leader, where she finds creative ways to help others.