The 2024 WAFP Student & Resident Leadership Summit, held on August 23 at the MCW Central Wisconsin campus, brought together students and residents from across the state for a day of learning, growth, and community-building. This year’s event focused on developing key leadership skills that are essential in Family Medicine, while also providing attendees with hands-on experiences and networking opportunities.
The day began with a joint breakfast session, where WAFP Executive Director Brandon Wimmer, CAE, provided an update on the state of Family Medicine in Wisconsin. Following this, the agenda split into specialized tracks for students and residents, allowing each group to focus on areas relevant to their current stage in training.
One of the standout sessions for residents was the Medical Improv workshop, led by Dr. Ray Ebarb and Theo Ebarb. This interactive session encouraged participants to sharpen their communication and problem-solving skills by engaging in improvisational exercises. The session aimed to build both interpersonal skills and adaptability, essential tools in any healthcare setting. The students, too, had the opportunity to engage in Medical Improv later in the afternoon, with many reporting it as a highlight of the day.
Students began their morning with "Advocacy in Family Medicine," led by WAFP President Dr. Beth Menzel. The session underscored the importance of being actively involved in shaping healthcare policies that impact both physicians and patients. Emotional Intelligence was another key theme of the summit, with Dr. Jeff Fritz leading a compelling discussion on how self-awareness and empathy are essential for maintaining both personal wellness and strong patient relationships.
Meanwhile, residents participated in a session titled "Navigating the Job Hunt," led by Dr. Andrea Gavin and Dr. Jeannie Green, where they learned about resume-building, negotiating contracts, and finding the right fit in their post-residency careers. With the current competitive job market, this practical advice was well-received by attendees.
In the afternoon, both groups came together for a team-building activity and a networking reception with community physicians, which offered a chance to connect with leaders in the field of Family Medicine. As one resident, Farah Shaukat, MD, expressed, “The summit not only provided crucial skills, but it also offered an excellent venue to engage with medical students and inspire them about the opportunities within Family Medicine.”
The event underscored WAFP’s strategic mission to “Nurture and Develop Family Physician Leaders” by offering educational sessions on leadership, patient advocacy, and wellness. Through programs like these, the WAFP continues to support family physicians at all stages of their careers, ensuring they are equipped to lead both in their practices and their communities.
This year’s summit was generously supported by the American Board of Family Medicine and the Wisconsin Academy of Family Physicians Foundation, making it free for all attendees. Events like these not only foster professional development but also strengthen the family medicine community statewide, reinforcing the core values of advocacy, leadership, and emotional intelligence.
