Griselda Aguilar, MD

University of California Davis School of Medicine

I am from Soledad, California, where I was raised in a migrant farmworker community. As a proud first-generation college graduate and physician, I carry with me the resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering belief in education that my family instilled from an early age. Their example inspired my commitment to serving communities like the one that raised me. 

I earned my bachelor’s degree from California State University, Fresno, where I participated in the College Assistance Migrant Program (CAMP). Through CAMP and later the Health Careers Opportunity Program (HCOP), I found mentors whose journeys reflected my own. Their guidance helped me navigate higher education and solidified my passion for family medicine, health equity, and caring for underserved communities. 

I went on to earn my medical degree at the UC Davis School of Medicine through the Rural Program in Medical Education (PRIME), where I focused on improving care for rural and underserved populations. During medical school, I volunteered at student-run clinics, served on the board of the Latino Medical Student Association, and mentored students from backgrounds underrepresented in medicine through MiMentor. These experiences strengthened my commitment to expanding opportunities for future generations of physicians. 

Training at Natividad is truly a full-circle moment. Returning home to care for the families of Salinas Valley and Monterey County is both a privilege and an honor, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the community that shaped me. 

Outside of medicine, I enjoy hosting carne asadas with family and friends, discovering new coffee shops, hiking, cycling along the coast, and exploring my passion for home décor. Whether sharing a meal or spending time outdoors, I value creating spaces where people feel connected and welcomed.  

Jazmin Arias, DO 

A.T. Still University of Health Sciences School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona

I earned my medical degree from the A.T. Still University School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona after completing my undergraduate education at California State University, Fresno. As a first-generation college student from the rural community of Strathmore, California, my upbringing inspired my commitment to serving underserved populations. 

Throughout my training, I have been actively involved in community service and advocacy. I have volunteered as a guest speaker and mentor for high school students exploring healthcare careers through Kaweah Health, provided care to unhoused individuals through Kaweah Health Street Medicine and Salt + Light, served as an education coach with the Sanford Youth Diabetes Coaching Program, conducted preparticipation sports physicals for high school athletes, cared for individuals experiencing sex trafficking or prostitution through Phoenix 1st Step, and supported harm reduction efforts in Maricopa County through Shot in the Dark. 

I am fluent in Spanish and am passionate about providing compassionate, culturally responsive care to diverse communities. Outside of medicine, I enjoy traveling with my fiancé and daughters, exploring new cities, restaurants, and coffee shops, and staying active by working out in my home gym, spending time outdoors, and walking local trails. Some of my favorite adventures include camping at Oceano Dunes and hiking in Sequoia National Park.  

Jared Bain, MD

Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara Facultad de Medicina

I grew up in San Bernardino, California, where living in a diverse, multicultural community opened my eyes to the social and health inequities that many families face. Those experiences inspired my desire to become a physician who advocates for patients and helps improve the health of underserved communities. 

My path to medicine has been anything but traditional. Before medical school, I worked in a variety of community-centered roles, including coaching youth sports, tutoring students, recovering organs and tissues for transplantation, and coordinating research studies at UCSF. These experiences reinforced my passion for service and prepared me for a career built on empathy, teamwork, and human connection. 

I earned my medical degree from the Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara, where I also fulfilled a longtime goal of becoming fluent in Spanish. Along the way, I had the privilege of caring for patients in Guadalajara, Sonora, Tucson, and Los Angeles before joining the Natividad Family Medicine Residency. 

Entering residency at 40 has given me a unique perspective on perseverance, resilience, and the many paths that can lead to medicine. I understand that life’s challenges often shape who we become, and I strive to make every patient feel seen, heard, and respected while partnering with them to achieve their health goals. None of this would have been possible without the unwavering love and encouragement of my family, especially my mother, who has always been my greatest inspiration, and my father, whose example of hard work continues to guide me. 

Outside of medicine, I enjoy spending time with my son, who keeps life full of laughter and adventure. I also enjoy working out, playing golf, visiting wineries and breweries, cheering on the Dodgers, 49ers, Lakers, and soccer clubs, and traveling throughout Mexico and Latin America. Most of all, I treasure time with my family and friends. 

Amanda “Kai” Barnes-Chiong, MD

St. George’s University School of Medicine

I grew up in Santa Clarita, California, and earned my bachelor’s degree in molecular biology from California State University, Monterey Bay. I went on to attend St. George’s University School of Medicine, where I also completed a Master of Public Health with a concentration in preventive medicine. 

During medical school, I completed several clinical rotations at Natividad, which confirmed my passion for serving this community. I am excited to practice full-spectrum family medicine and have particular interests in sports medicine and community medicine. My long-term goal is to create a traveling clinic that brings healthcare to underserved communities. 

Community service has always been an important part of my journey. I have volunteered with Project Paper Bag and the Port Hueneme Beach Clean-Up, and I am committed to improving the health of the communities I serve. I also speak Spanish and enjoy caring for diverse patient populations. 

Before medical school, I was a professional hip-hop dancer and performed in music videos and live shows, including for BET. Outside of medicine, I enjoy spending time with my husband, camping, scuba diving, dancing, hiking, hot yoga, strength training, snowboarding, surfing, searching for crystals and fossils, and traveling the world. I feel most at home when I’m immersed in nature and exploring new places. 

Liliana Cano, DO

Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine

My journey into healthcare began while I was studying creative writing and pre-med at Weber State University in Ogden, Utah, where I worked as a caregiver in a skilled nursing facility. I was drawn equally to people’s stories and to the science of medicine, and those interests have shaped my path ever since. Before attending Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine, I worked in a variety of healthcare roles, including as a certified nursing assistant team lead providing frontline care during the COVID-19 pandemic, a wound care technician, and a Spanish medical interpreter. 

Throughout my training, I have remained committed to serving vulnerable communities. I have volunteered with the Denver Rescue Mission, served at a domestic violence shelter by staffing the front desk and answering sexual assault and domestic violence hotline calls, worked as a Spanish tutor, and served as both a clerk and interpreter at a free clinic. These experiences strengthened my passion for family medicine and for helping patients understand their health and navigate the healthcare system. 

My greatest interests within family medicine are mental health, maternal health, and lifestyle medicine. I also speak Spanish and enjoy caring for diverse patient populations. 

Outside of medicine, I enjoy crocheting, sewing, playing video games, hiking, and walking along the ocean. I also have a longstanding interest in philosophy, spirituality, and writing both fiction and nonfiction, all of which continue to inspire the way I connect with patients and understand their stories.  

Uzoamaka Eweama, MD 

American University of Antigua College of Medicine

I am a physician with a diverse background in medicine, rehabilitation, and public service. I earned my Doctor of Medicine degree from the American University of Antigua after completing a Doctor of Optometry degree at Abia State University in Nigeria and a Master of Science in Blind Rehabilitation from the University of Arkansas. I now live in Hollister, California, with my family. 

Before pursuing family medicine, I spent many years working with individuals who are blind or visually impaired as a certified Orientation and Mobility Specialist and Low Vision Therapist. My work with organizations including the Maryland Department of Rehabilitation Services and Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind focused on helping patients maximize their independence and quality of life through rehabilitation and adaptive training. 

My career has also included service as a police officer with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, where I developed skills in crisis management, teamwork, and community engagement. In addition, I have participated in humanitarian medical missions and volunteered with the U.S. Army and the American Red Cross. 

These diverse experiences have reinforced my commitment to serving others and have shaped my approach to patient care. I am dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered care to underserved communities.  

Gabriela Hernandez Duran, MD

Oregon Health & Science University School of Medicine

I grew up in Hillsboro, Oregon, where my hardworking parents instilled in me the values of perseverance and education from an early age. My interest in medicine began in high school through volunteering at a local hospital and participating in a research internship at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), where I found inspiring mentors who encouraged me to pursue a career in medicine. 

I earned my bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Portland, where I was actively involved in organizations supporting first-generation college students and the Latino community. After graduation, I worked at OHSU as an emergency department research assistant, served as a Spanish medical interpreter at a free clinic, and spent a year as a patient navigator before returning to OHSU to earn my medical degree. 

Throughout medical school, I remained involved in community outreach, health equity initiatives, and advocacy for Latino medical students. My passion for family medicine became clear during my third-year rural rotations, where I experienced the broad scope of care family physicians provide across all stages of life. I am especially interested in obstetrics, pediatrics, and caring for underserved communities, and I am excited to continue growing in these areas at Natividad. 

Outside of medicine, I enjoy watching horror movies with my two cats, experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, taking fitness classes, and spending time outdoors, rain or shine.  

Giselle Rodriguez, MD

St. George’s University School of Medicine

I grew up in Northern San Diego County, where I was raised by resilient parents who immigrated to the United States from Mexico and instilled in me the values of hard work, compassion, and service. As a first-generation college graduate and physician, my experiences have shaped my commitment to expanding access to high-quality healthcare for underserved communities. 

I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in Nutritional Science from the University of California, Berkeley, where I developed a strong interest in prevention, behavior change, and the impact of social and environmental factors on chronic disease. I went on to earn my medical degree from St. George’s University School of Medicine and a Master of Public Health with a concentration in preventive medicine. 

Throughout my training, I have been dedicated to community-centered care. As an undergraduate, I served as program coordinator for a diabetes awareness organization, leading health education workshops and community outreach. I also participated in a medical brigade in Honduras, where I assisted with patient care and health education. Together with my experiences in community clinics and telemedicine, these opportunities strengthened my passion for preventive care, health equity, and serving diverse patient populations, making Natividad an ideal place to pursue my training in family medicine. 

Outside of medicine, I enjoy traveling, creating content to capture my experiences, discovering new coffee shops, and planning and decorating celebrations for family and friends.  

Alondra Saenz-Alvarez, DO

A.T. Still University of Health Sciences School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona

I grew up in San Jose, California, as the oldest of three siblings. As a first-generation college student, I learned early on the value of hard work, perseverance, and the importance of giving back to my community. I earned my bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Berkeley, before going on to receive my medical degree from the A.T. Still University School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona. 

I chose family medicine because I believe everyone deserves access to high-quality, compassionate healthcare. My goal is to be the kind of physician patients feel comfortable talking to, someone who listens, and understands the realities many families face. As a bilingual physician, I value being able to connect with my Spanish-speaking patients and the importance of providing culturally competent care. 

I am especially passionate about caring for underserved communities and hope to be the physician my own community didn’t always have. I aim to be a physician who builds trusting relationships, advocates for patients, and helps them achieve their health goals. 

Outside of medicine, I enjoy spending time in the kitchen trying new recipes, going for walks, browsing the mall, and watching movies with my family.  

Maria Zepeda, MD

University of California Davis School of Medicine

I am a first-generation Latina and the proud daughter of Mexican immigrants from Los Guerrero, Jalisco. My family settled in the rural town of Los Olivos, California, where my father worked in ranch maintenance and my mother as a housekeeper. Growing up, I helped clean homes alongside my family and often served as our interpreter and advocate as we navigated systems that were not built for us. Those experiences gave me an early understanding of the barriers many families face in accessing healthcare and inspired my commitment to becoming a physician. 

I earned a double major in Integrative Biology and Spanish from the University of California, Berkeley, before completing the UC Davis Postbaccalaureate Program. During that time, I taught Medical Spanish, studied abroad in Spain, led a medical brigade in Honduras, and worked with the Sansum Diabetes Research Institute, where I helped train Promotores and focused on diabetes in pregnancy. These experiences sparked my passion for maternal health and reinforced my belief in the value of continuous, relationship-centered care. 

At the UC Davis School of Medicine, I remained deeply involved in community health and advocacy through REACH, serving underserved communities throughout the Central Valley and rural California. I also served as co-director of the Women’s Health Clinic at Knights Landing Clinic, co-chair of the Latino Medical Student Association, provided culturally responsive prenatal education to Spanish-speaking mothers, and mentored students underrepresented in medicine. 

I was drawn to Natividad because of its commitment to farmworker communities, full-spectrum family medicine training, and excellence in high-risk obstetrics. It feels like a home place where I can grow into the physician I aspire to be while serving a community that reflects my own. 

Outside of medicine, I enjoy painting, drawing, writing, and spending time with my daughter and husband. We love visiting family in Mexico, dancing to Banda music, trying new restaurants, taking walks, and cuddling with our cat, Frida. I am honored to return to the Central Coast to serve the hardworking farmworker community of Salinas as their doctora. 

Patricia Diangkinay, DO

California Health Sciences University College of Osteopathic Medicine

I was born and raised in Calamba, Philippines. My earliest exposure to medicine began at home, where my mother, a town midwife, would deliver babies in the community. At just six years old, I witnessed my first childbirth. Although I didn’t fully grasp the challenges of living in an underserved area at the time, this experience planted the seeds for my future in healthcare.

At the age of 13, I immigrated to the United States with my mother, reuniting with my father, who had been working as a nurse. After settling in Southern California, our family grew, and I proudly became an older sister to two siblings—my brother, who is 16 years younger than me, and my sister, who is 20 years younger. I lived in Southern California from ages 13 to 23 and earned my undergraduate degree in 2017 at the age of 20. After graduation, I worked as an emergency department scribe and as a behavior therapist for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. These roles deepened my understanding of patient care and strengthened my commitment to serving both individuals and families.

I attended medical school at California Health Sciences University – College of Osteopathic Medicine. I found my calling in Family Medicine, a specialty that aligns with my core values and belief in the central role of the family in health and well-being. The osteopathic philosophy of holistic care—treating the mind, body, and spirit—resonated deeply with me. Medical school has taught me resilience, discipline, and adaptability, and strengthened my commitment to underserved communities.

Outside of medicine, I’m passionate about fitness, particularly weightlifting. Before medical school, I was involved in mentorship and worship leading at my church—experiences that kept me grounded in service and community. As a proud Filipina, music has always been a part of my life; I grew up singing karaoke and playing string instruments, and still find relaxation and joy through music. I also enjoy discovering new coffee shops and restaurants, spending quality time with loved ones, and—more recently—cooking, which I’ve unexpectedly come to love.

I am currently building my procedural and inpatient management skills while continuing to grow in outpatient care and patient education. I aspire to serve in underserved communities and empower patients to take charge of their health.

Maison Evensen-Martinez, DO

Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine

Hi everyone! I’m Maison Evensen-Martinez, a recent graduate from Rocky Vista University in Southern Utah. I was born in Fresno, CA, and raised in Salt Lake City, UT, so the West Coast has always felt like home. I’m beyond excited to continue my journey in Salinas and join a community that shares my passion for caring for others.

As a Spanish-English bilingual physician, I’m deeply committed to full-spectrum family medicine and working with underserved populations. Providing compassionate, high-quality care—especially for those who might not otherwise have access—is at the heart of why I chose this path.

Outside of the hospital, you’ll find me skiing, hiking, wandering through bookshops, or planning our next adventure with my husband. We also share our lives with our “two babies,” Chihuahuas Pico and Rocky, frequent stars of our social media.

Edwardo Hurtado, MD

Drexel University College of Medicine

Hi, I’m Edwardo—yes, spelled with a “w.” My name is the result of a paperwork miscommunication when my parents, who immigrated from Mexico, welcomed me into the world. Without language assistance at the time, “Edwardo” was recorded instead of the traditional “Eduardo.” Over time, I’ve come to embrace the name as a symbol of my bicultural identity, blending my Hispanic heritage with my American upbringing.

I was raised in Boise, Idaho, where I developed a love for the outdoors—hiking, kayaking, and especially rock climbing. I later moved to Salt Lake City to attend the University of Utah, where I earned a degree in chemistry. During my undergraduate years, I took a two-year pause to serve a volunteer proselyting mission in Montreal, Canada, where I became fluent in French and began learning Portuguese.

Upon returning to Utah, I volunteered at the Maliheh Free Clinic as a patient technician and in-person interpreter. That experience—working with immigrants, refugees, and underserved populations—solidified my desire to serve communities facing barriers to care. Seeking new experiences, I headed east for medical school at Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia. There, I continued my commitment to language equity in healthcare, caring for patients in English, Spanish, and French.

Now, I’m thrilled to return to the West Coast to continue my medical journey at Natividad. Looking ahead, I hope to partner with nonprofit organizations focused on international relief efforts and supporting newly arrived immigrants in the U.S.

Graciela Martinez, MD

Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara Facultad de Medicina

I was born in Artesia and raised in Downey, CA. I’m a first-generation daughter of a Mexican father and Nicaraguan mother, and the oldest of four siblings. I studied Biology at Cal State East Bay, where volunteering at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital reminded me of my childhood dream to become a physician.

I earned my medical degree from Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara and had the opportunity to volunteer with GUIDMEDIC, providing care to rural and indigenous communities in Mexico. Later, during my rotations in Phoenix, I volunteered at Planned Parenthood, which deepened my passion for women’s health, reproductive care, and patient education.

I’m so excited to begin residency at Natividad—a place that reflects my values and commitment to underserved communities. Outside of medicine, I enjoy thrifting, visiting new coffee shops, watching films, and spending time with my loved ones and my cat, Luna. I’m also a big fan of The Marías!

Rachael Molitor, DO, MPH

Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine

I’m originally from Wilmington, Delaware and a lifelong Philly sports fan (Go Birds!). I studied Public Policy and Spanish at the University of Delaware, then served in the Peace Corps in northern Peru, where I helped build community health programs with the Ministry of Health. That experience deepened my passion for community-based, holistic care.

After returning home, I earned my MPH at Johns Hopkins, focusing on behavioral health programming and health equity. During medical school, I volunteered at Puentes de Salud in South Philadelphia, coordinating care for underserved patients in the Latinx community.

I’m especially interested in full-spectrum family medicine with OB, immigrant and global health, osteopathic manipulative treatment, and public health. I chose Natividad because of its strong commitment to health equity and community care. Outside of medicine, I love being a plant mom, rewatching Friends, traveling, relaxing at the beach, and cheering on the Eagles and Phillies.

Janet Montelongo, MD

University of Kansas School of Medicine

I was raised in Ojai, California by my incredible mother, who immigrated from Guadalajara, Jalisco. Her resilience and determination have always inspired me, and they’re a big part of why I became the first in my family to graduate from college—and now, the first physician.

I studied at UC Davis, where I volunteered at Clínica Tepati, a student-run clinic serving the Latino community. It was a powerful experience to go from once needing similar care to being able to provide it. I also spent time studying abroad in Oaxaca, which deepened my connection to medicine and community health. After working as a medical scribe, I completed a postbacc and went on to earn my medical degree at the University of Kansas.

During my training, I discovered a passion for rural medicine and the vital role Family Medicine physicians play in underserved areas. I’m drawn to this specialty because it allows me to care for the whole person and build long-term relationships grounded in trust and prevention.

I’m so excited to return to California and join the Natividad family, whose mission to serve farm-working and migrant communities aligns perfectly with my own. Outside of medicine, I love trying new recipes and exploring the outdoors with my husband and our son.

Taiwo Ogundipe, MD

Lagos State University College of Medicine

I was born and raised in a small town in Lagos, Nigeria, the youngest of six children and a twin. Fun fact—my twin sister is also a physician and a mom of twins, just like me! My passion for medicine started early, shaped by seeing how difficult it was for people in my community to access basic healthcare. That drive to serve the underserved has guided every step of my journey. In medical school, I got involved in public health education during the Ebola outbreak and later worked as a primary care provider while leading outreach efforts like Paincare Outreach in rural communities.

After moving to the U.S., I earned a Master’s in Healthcare Administration from the University of Cincinnati and worked in a subacute rehab facility in New York City. I’m especially passionate about full-spectrum primary care, quality improvement, and making compassionate, evidence-based care accessible to all.

Outside of work, I love cooking and hosting friends and family. I’m so excited to train at Natividad and be part of a program that shares my commitment to community-focused, full-spectrum care.

Mayra Razo, MD

Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University

I was born and raised in North Georgia to Mexican immigrants, and I’m proud to be a first-generation college graduate and doctor. I studied neuroscience at Emory University, where I had the chance to volunteer at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and tutor kids in refugee communities. These experiences sparked my passion for medicine and strengthened my commitment to serving underserved populations.

Before starting medical school, I took a gap year and worked as a scribe in an outpatient neurosurgery clinic. I then attended the Medical College of Georgia, where I continued working with minority communities. One of the most meaningful parts of my training was volunteering at Clinica Latina, our student-run clinic that provided free primary care to uninsured, Spanish-speaking patients. Now, I’m excited to be training at Natividad, where I can use my background, language skills, and desire to make a difference to care for patients in a meaningful way. My professional interests include obstetrics and community medicine.

When I’m not working, I enjoy watching college football and soccer, traveling, spending time with my family, and getting outdoors to hike or run.

Enriqueta Torres, DO

Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine

I’m a proud Mexican American from Port Arthur, Texas. Growing up in a close-knit family, I was taught to value culture, hard work, and giving back—principles that led me to a career in medicine.

I studied Chemistry at UT Austin and spent two years teaching high school physics before earning my DO and a Master’s in Biomedical Sciences from Rocky Vista University in Colorado. During medical school, I focused on advocacy, leadership, and mentorship, especially through SNMA and LMSA.

I’m passionate about maternal and women’s health, LGBTQIA+ care, and improving health literacy. Outside of medicine, I love going to the movies, playing tennis, walking my senior dog, and dancing whenever I can.

Sarah Watanaskul, MD

University of California, San Francisco, School of Medicine

I grew up in Southern California, raised by a hardworking father who taught me the value of resilience and education. Early on, I found joy in community service—whether tutoring, volunteering at the library, or helping at local events—and that passion stayed with me through college and medical school.

I studied Biology and English at the University of Chicago, where I fell in love with the intersection of science and storytelling. At UCSF, I developed a strong commitment to caring for underserved communities and discovered interests in palliative care, ultrasound, and building long-term relationships with patients.

I’m excited to continue that work at Natividad. Outside of medicine, I enjoy hiking, paddle boarding, knitting, solving puzzles, and finding the best dessert spots in town.

Jennifer Chavarin, MD

Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara

I am a first-generation American physician born and raised in Southern California. Being the eldest of five siblings, I embraced a profound sense of responsibility and care from an early age. My parents always encouraged and taught me the importance of education and the significance of hard work. This upbringing instilled in me a deep commitment to making a positive impact in my community.

My academic journey led me to the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), where I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biology with a Minor in Healthcare & Social Issues.
While at UCSD, I gained invaluable experience while working at LabCorp and developed an interest in the intricacies of medical specimens and the stories they hold.

During medical school, I immersed myself in initiatives like GUIMEDIC and FM4 Paso Libre, providing essential care to rural indigenous communities and offering support to migrants along with refugees undertaking the challenging journey on La Bestia to the United States. I completed my clinical rotations in Las Vegas, Nevada, where I volunteered at the Nevada Obstetrical Community Clinic. Additionally, I have worked as a medical assistant at an OB/GYN clinic. Here, I had the privilege of providing muchneeded care to underserved populations, reinforcing my commitment to addressing healthcare disparities.

My medical interests include full spectrum family medicine, medical literacy, obstetrics and reproductive health. Beyond medicine, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our daughter. I enjoy the great outdoors through hiking, cooking, knitting and crocheting, puzzles and exploring ways to harness the metaverse.

Jesus Gonzalez, DO

Burrell College of Osteopathic Medicine at New Mexico State University

I was born and raised in the East Bay to Mexican immigrants who ingrained in me the value of compassion and resiliency. Throughout my life I have been inspired by my family who worked in the agricultural fields of Salinas and various construction sites in Northern California. I stumbled into higher education earning degrees in Cultural Anthropology and Biological Sciences from San Francisco State and Cal State East Bay.

Prior to my career in medicine I taught at Cal State East Bay’s Department of Biological Sciences and Department of General Studies as a Lab Instructor and Teaching Associate. In 2015 I took a break from teaching to complete an internship with the Joint Genome Institute’s Microbial Ecology Lab where I conducted research on the microbiota of switchgrass. Right before starting medical school, I worked as a high school teacher at Tilde Preparatory School in Walnut Creek teaching courses in Math, Science, Political Science, Sports Medicine, and Spanish Language.

My passion for community-centered medicine and advocacy was ignited when I started volunteering at Oakland’s Highland Hospital. There I spent over 5 years helping manage a volunteer program in their Infusion Center and GI Lab.
In medical school I became involved with the New Mexico Medical Reserve Corps on projects such as the COVID Rapid Response Team and Vaccinations Pods. In the Reserve Corps I traveled throughout Southern New Mexico proving medical care to rural communities. I also volunteered with the Border Servant Corps, proving medical triage to recently arrived immigrants seeking asylum. I am humbled to be regularly invited to middle and high schools to discuss issues facing immigrants and share their stories of resiliency.

In 2023 I was selected by the New Mexico chapter of the American College of Physicians (ACP) to represent Southern New Mexico in congress to advocate for policies aimed at increasing the physician work force in rural areas and expanding Medicare coverage in children. For my history of grassroot activism and patient advocacy, I was awarded the Class of 2024 Excellence in Diversity Student Award by Burrell College.
I enjoy baseball, mixed martial arts, watching documentaries, and strength sports. I’m a competitive powerlifter with an over 500lb squat and deadlift but I’m happiest when I pick up my 15lb long-haired chihuahua, Yumi.

Mina Khodabandeh, MD

Masshad University of Medical Sciences, Iran
I’m excited to begin this new chapter of my journey as a new resident at Natividad. I’m embracing this opportunity to grow, in a setting that offers natural beauty, and so much to explore. Being in a different part of the country gives me the chance to gain new perspectives. I’m also looking forward to getting to know my fellow residents, each of whom has a unique background, life story, and set of strengths that I truly admire. There is so much to learn from them, and I value the friendships that will form along the way.

Darcy Luck, DO

Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine – Carolinas Campus
I was born in Panama City, Panama, at a former US Military base to an American father and Honduran mother. While much of my early life was spent at various military bases in Central America, we returned to the US when I was around 5 years old. I grew up in rural North and South Carolina, surrounded by cotton and tobacco fields, poultry, and cattle farming until my family ultimately settled in Myrtle Beach, SC where I graduated high school.

I obtained a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a minor in Medical Humanities from Coastal Carolina University in Conway, SC. During this time I developed an interest biomedical ethics and worked as a medical assistant at the emergency department of Conway Medical Center, where this experience solidified my decision to become a physician.

For medical school I attended Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Spartanburg, SC where I was able to explore a broad range of interests, from community medicine, abortion care, and mentorship for low-income students from rural SC interested in STEM education. Initially drawn to general surgery, I completed two years of surgical residency after graduating in 2020, with intern year at East Carolina University in Greenville, NC, and second year at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill.

However, starting residency at the height of the COVID-19 Pandemic had a major impact on my perception of medical care and I recognized that I wanted to provide more comprehensive care to my patients throughout all stages of life. At the end of my second year of surgical residency I made the decision to transition to family medicine and took a sabbatical which allowed me to refocus my educational goals on holistic healthcare, emphasizing the emotional and social aspects of patient well-being.

My main areas of interest in family medicine are in hospice and palliative medicine, community medicine, and abortion care and I am absolutely ecstatic to be able to explore this area of medicine at Natividad Medical Center and to support the communities in Salinas and Monterey County. As a child of a Honduran Immigrant, I am proud to be able to serve communities similar to my own family.

Outside of work I enjoy crafting and fiber arts, and have developed a passion for crochet and sustainable fashion. I like to spend my free time cooking with friends and family, watching movies, roller skating, exercising, listening to music, and reading science fiction and fantasy novels.

Jasmine Morante, MD

Universidad Científica del Sur Facultad de Medicina Humana, Peru
I am a proud daughter of first-generation Peruvian immigrants and was born and raised in South Florida. Amidst the 2007 recession, my family and I struggled financially, and I lacked health insurance for a big part of my childhood. One day, when I was 8 years old, I had a high fever and a sore throat, but my mom could not afford to take me to see a doctor. Fortunately, she was informed about a Cuban family doctor who provided care at no cost, and he was able to see me and get me the antibiotics I needed for my strep throat. It was at this moment that I was inspired to follow a similar path. I knew that when I grew up, I wanted to become a physician and help underserved patients.

At the age of 16, I moved with my mother to Peru and started medical school at Universidad Cientifica del Sur. During my last year of medical school, or what for us is our internado/ intern year, I was drawn to primary care and Family Medicine after witnessing my patients fighting severe complications from chronic diseases like diabetes or hypertension. These complications could have been prevented if only they had received adequate treatment for those diseases with a primary care physician. Sadly, due to the high corruption that exists in the Peruvian government, the healthcare system barely focuses on primary care, which in turn is the reason why our hospitals are collapsing with severely ill patients. Many times, our hospitals lacked basic equipment, which forced me and my colleagues to use our imagination by utilizing Coca-Cola bottles for procedures like paracentesis. Despite all of this, my last year of medical school strengthened my desire to work with underserved and marginalized communities.

In 2023, I was accepted into the UCLA International Medical Graduate program and moved to Los Angeles. During my clinical rotations in Los Angeles, I was shocked by the tremendous demand for Spanish-speaking doctors. Here, I found my place as a native speaker. For this reason, I am thrilled to be at Natividad. It truly feels like a dream, knowing that much of the patient population we serve are Latinx immigrants, and I will be giving back to my community.

My interests in Family Medicine include Addiction Medicine, street medicine, LGBTQIA+ care, and HIV care. In my free time, I like to travel and visit as many places as I can but also enjoy staying at home watching anime with my Peruvian hairless dog, Nena. Additionally, I love music and singing. I hope someday to be able to write my own music!

Jacob Ongaro, DO

Touro University College of Osteopathic Medicine
I was born in Salinas (at SVMH) and grew up in the Monterey/Salinas area. I graduated from Palma High School in 2013 and went on to study Integrative Biology at UC Berkeley. In college I was most interested in learning about evolution, physiology, ecology, botany, and anthropology. After graduating from Berkeley, I worked in several jobs, including medical scribe in an Oncology/Hematology clinic, EMT/med tech at an addiction recovery facility, kayak guide in Elkhorn Slough, lifeguard, and teaching assistant. I started medical school at Touro University California in the height of the pandemic, and had many, many hours of Zoom learning at home. I had the good fortune to come home and complete my 3rd year rotations at Natividad – which cemented my interest in pursuing a career in Family Medicine. I am especially proud to be returning home again as a resident physician to serve my family, friends, and community. Outside of medicine, I enjoy swimming, running, biking, enjoying nature, playing guitar and piano, cooking, and more. I am an aficionado of great music from the 60’s to 90’s, and listen to too many podcasts.

Diana Ornelas, MD

University of California, Riverside School of Medicine
I am from Los Angeles County in Southern California, born in West Covina and raised in La Puente. I have two older siblings and the unique experience of being an identical twin.
Both my twin sister and I are first-generation and are the first doctors in our family. I am also the proud daughter of brave and hardworking parents who immigrated to the US from Mexico and who have worked in casting and molding factories throughout my life. I attended UCLA for undergrad and participated in various pipeline programs for underrepresented in medicine (URiM) students, which sparked my interest in Family Medicine and social justice work. I completed my medical education at the UC Riverside School of Medicine where I volunteered at the Riverside Free Clinic (RFC), providing basic health services to homeless and uninsured patients. I also discovered my love for Point of Care Ultrasound and became a student instructor and facilitated scanning sessions for first year medical students. I also served as one of the Co-Chairs for the Latinx Medical Student Association at UCR, and I look forward to continuing to mentor URiM students as a resident at Natividad. I am so incredibly honored to be one of the Doctoras at Natividad and serve the underserved and migrant farmworker communities of Salinas and Monterey County. My professional interests include obstetrics, hospital medicine, POCUS, and community medicine. For fun, I enjoy spending time with family and taking my rescue dog Buttercup on walks and car rides. I also enjoy drinking unique lattes at coffee shops, trying new restaurants, and shopping. For wellness, I enjoy group workouts, like kickboxing, and traveling.

Lindsay Richards, MD

University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine
I was raised in a small town in Central Florida by my parents and older sister. Prior to medical school, I studied Economics and Microbiology at the University of Florida. I then worked for an organization called Compañeros En Salud (Partners In Health), where my focus was implementing shared medical appointments for patients with diabetes. During this time, I was inspired by working with teams of community health workers who showed me the power of accompaniment and refusing to accept that any life is worth less than another. This experience made choosing family medicine easy – it reinforced that the tools for our communities to live long and healthy lives already exist, and it showed me how primary care doctors have the privilege of helping to share those tools.

I value maintaining interests outside of medicine as a way to build community and keep a balanced perspective. Some of my favorite activities during medical school have included working as a catering waitress and a dog walker, apprenticing at a bike shop, gardening (but mostly just pulling weeds), woodworking, rock climbing, playing board games (especially Wingspan and Smash Up), joining a DnD campaign, and spending quality time with my partner, friends, and family.

I chose Natividad because of the program’s genuine connection to their community and commitment to their patients. I’m so grateful for the privilege to train here and serve the Salinas community.

Marissa Scott, MD

University of Queensland School of Medicine in Australia

I grew up in a small suburb of Los Angeles, and attended UC Berkeley for my undergraduate studies. During my time at Cal I pursued a minor in global poverty, which deepened my understanding of the existing structural inequities within the medical system and influenced my perspective on healthcare. Ultimately, this led me to pursue a career in medicine.

Through advocacy work, volunteering within the community, and clinical rotations, it became exceedingly clear that family medicine is where my passion lies. This specialty’s emphasis on holistic, patient-centered care is reflective of my personal values and aligns with my motivations for entering the medical field. I am so grateful to have joined the Natividad family and be part of a residency program dedicated to promoting equity within the community.

Maintaining a well-rounded life outside of medicine has always been important to me. I grew up hiking, camping, and surfing (I know, typical Californian hobbies), and continue to make time to enjoy these activities as much as possible. I also love exploring new genres of music and attending live music events whenever I can.

Celene Serrato Flamenco, MD

Ross University School of Medicine
I was born in King City and raised in Greenfield, CA. My parents instilled in me the values of hard work, resilience, and compassion. Growing up in South Monterey County, my family worked as field workers, harvesting grapes and cauliflower for most of my childhood. At a young age, my dad left his home in Mexico and my mom from Honduras to pursue a better future. Early on, I became aware of the challenges and sacrifices they had made to provide for our family. Despite the hardships, my brother and I were encouraged and supported to prioritize education.

As a first-generation college graduate, I received my BS in biology with a minor in Spanish from the University of California, Riverside. During my time there, I had the opportunity to participate in a medical brigade in Honduras, which solidified my desire to pursue medicine. This experience also gave me a unique perspective on the impact of environmental and socioeconomic factors on health. Throughout my undergraduate studies, I continued to explore the field of medicine, volunteering at an internist clinic near campus and assisting in a physical therapy department while studying abroad in Thailand. After graduation, I worked as an optometry assistant before applying to medical school.

As the first in my family to attend medical school, I graduated from Ross University School of Medicine, where I was a part of the Family Medicine Interest Group and served as president and vice president of the campus OB/GYN Interest Group. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I volunteered with the Monterey County Health Department, where I scribed and assisted with the vaccine clinics held throughout the county. It was important to me to participate in providing vaccine access to the farm-working community, which was among the most vulnerable populations. I enjoyed speaking with middle and high school students in Greenfield and King City to discuss medical career opportunities throughout my medical education. During my third year, while doing my Family Medicine rotation, I realized the specialty embodied what I strive to accomplish as a physician, which includes holistic care, versatility, continuity of care, and community involvement.

I am beyond grateful to have returned to the Salinas Valley and the community that has given me so much. My medical interests include preventative care, rural medicine, and maternal and reproductive health. Outside of medicine, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, going on long walks with my dog, traveling, and learning about my family ancestry and family tree.

Meghan Zander, MD

University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health
I was born and raised in Wisconsin and am the oldest of 5 siblings. I attended college at UW-Madison and majored in Biology and Spanish. During college, I worked as a personal care worker, an office assistant in research, and during my summers I worked as a cook and waitress at a local restaurant.

After college, I spent 2 years living in Madrid, Spain, teaching English to kids in primary school, improve my Spanish skills and immerse myself in Spanish culture. When I returned to the U.S., I worked as a medical assistant at Planned Parenthood in Milwaukee, Wisconsin for 2 years. It was there that I began to truly understand how social determinants affect a person’s health, and that looking at patients on a community level can be useful to understand their unique needs.

I then began medical school at UWSMPH. I participated in a program called TRIUMPH, where we got training in aspects of public health that affect patient care. As a part of this program, I also completed a longitudinal community project with the Gerald L. Ignace Indian Health center to address the low vaccination rates in the children and adolescents served by the clinic. Additionally, I was a clinic co-coordinator for a student run clinic in Madison, WI, called MEDiC. I also participated as a board member of the PRIDE in healthcare student organization, and assisted with planning the annual LGBTQ+ health summit. In my 4th year of medical school, I spent 8 weeks rotating in Riobamba, Ecuador. I was able to experience providing medical care in rural areas where patients worked in agriculture.

I am thrilled to be at Natividad, where I am getting a broad scope of training with a focus on community health and additional training in reproductive care. I value working with like-minded people focused on advocacy and health equity, and feel privileged to take care of the community of Salinas.

Outside of medicine, I enjoy traveling, playing pool with my partner, reading, cooking, and spending time with my cats Jasper and Felix.