Allergy/Immunology and Rheumatology Fellowships Graduation, 2024

The Allergy/Immunology and Rheumatology Fellowship Graduation, presented at the Courtyard by Marriott on Melrose on Thursday, June 13, showcased its trainees in one of the final Internal Medicine graduation events of the season. Family and friends gathered to celebrate with dinner and the presentation of awards, toasting the completion of both two-year programs.

Opening remarks by Interim Director of Immunology, Benjamin Davis, MD, PhD, described this year’s group as warm, saying, “It’s been a pleasure to support their time with us.”

Although Rheumatology Fellowship Program Director Bharat Kumar, MD, MME, could not attend the celebration in person, he had made personalized congratulatory videos for each of his program’s graduates, sharing something special about each fellow, recounting memories and assuring them that— whatever they may do next—he believed in their ability to succeed.

He expressed his admiration that Ayesha Iftekhar, MBBS, was always willing to listen and be an advocate for her patients. Graduate Lemon Ni, MD, was highlighted for her commitment to continual learning through her pursuit of further training. Lastly, Alick Feng, MD, was congratulated for his dedication, and for completing his whole medical career—from undergraduate degree to fellowship—at the University of Iowa.

Each Rheumatology Fellowship graduate was presented with their certificate by Associate Program Director Rebecca Tuetken, MD, PhD, after their video was played. Tuetken thanked them for their work in the division and wished them well in their future pursuits.

Next, Allergy/Immunology Fellowship Program Director Amy Dowden, MD, spoke about her first year as director, joking that this year’s graduates were the best trainees she’d ever had—at least until next year.

Dowden presented certificates to two graduates: Alick Feng, MD, who completed the Allergy/Immunology and Rheumatology dual pathway program, and Sarah Nimri, MD, whom Dowden commended for always offering a hand to both staff and patients in need.

Fellows, faculty, friends, and family alike lingered after the closing remarks, enjoying each other’s company, reflecting on the momentous milestone, and dreaming of what might come next.