Congratulations to the Class of 2026

Jun 21, 2026

The SUNY Downstate Department of Surgery proudly celebrated the graduation of its 2026 chief residents on June 21, 2026, at Giando on the Water. The ceremony marked the culmination of years of rigorous clinical training, academic growth, personal sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the patients and communities served by Downstate. Surrounded by family, friends, faculty, and fellow residents, the graduating chiefs were recognized for the skill, professionalism, resilience, and leadership they demonstrated throughout residency. 

The Class of 2026 was a particularly distinguished and cohesive group of chief residents. Each member brought unique strengths to the program while collectively setting an exceptional example for junior residents and medical students. Through demanding clinical responsibilities, teaching, mentorship, and service, they helped shape the culture of the residency and strengthened the Department of Surgery. Their excellence was reflected not only in their surgical abilities, but also in the compassion, integrity, and camaraderie they brought to their work each day. 

The department also recognized residents for outstanding achievement, growth, and service. The Outstanding PGY-1 Resident Award was presented to Dr. Arya Gaddam and Dr. Antonios Klaroudas, the Outstanding PGY-2 Resident Award to Dr. Hashmeet Kaur, the Outstanding PGY-3 Resident Award to Dr. Lauren Thau, and the Outstanding PGY-4 Resident Award to Dr. John Perrotti. Dr. Mohammad Afsh received the Theo Lewis Advancement Award as the program’s Most Improved Resident, while Dr. Michael Vaglica received the Outstanding Specialty Resident Award. The Erfan Faridmoayer, MD Outstanding Citizen Award was presented jointly to Dr. Tomás Daviú Molinari and Dr. Sagar Rohondia. Dr. Daviú Molinari also received the Thomas W. Pollock Award and the Golden Apple Award. 

Faculty members were honored for their extraordinary commitment to surgical education, mentorship, and residency leadership. Dr. Lance Jung received the Warren Wetzel Excellence in Teaching Award, Dr. Andrew Kamrouz received the Outstanding Junior Faculty Award, Dr. Natasha Becker received the Best Program Director Award, and Dr. Yang Yang received the Master Teacher Award. As the graduates begin fellowship, clinical practice, and the next chapters of their surgical careers, the Department of Surgery celebrates everything they have accomplished and looks forward to the many ways they will continue to lead, teach, serve, and represent SUNY Downstate. Congratulations to the Class of 2026 and to all of this year’s award recipients!