2024 cardiac surgery graduates pose for a group photo

Integrated Thoracic Surgery Resident Alumni

Graduates of the Integrated Thoracic Surgery Residency training program at the U-M Medical School Department of Cardiac Surgery are highly sought-after, with many going on to successful careers in both academic medicine and private practice.

The majority of our residents choose to pursue academic careers, joining faculty at prestigious institutions across the country. Whether pursuing careers in academic medicine or clinical practice, our graduates are well-prepared to make an impact in the field of cardiothoracic surgery.

Class of 2025

Michael Pienta, MD, MS 

Bree Ann Young, MD, MS

Class of 2024

K. Candis Jones, MD, MScEng
Advanced Aortic Fellow
University of Michigan Health

Class of 2022

Curtis Bergquist, MD
Cardiothoracic Surgery
St. Charles Health System

Tessa Watt, MD, MSc
Assistant Professor, Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery
University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

Class of 2023

Alexander Brescia, MD, MSc
Assistant Professor, Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery
Washington University School of Medicine

William Weir, MD
Clinical Assistant Professor, Division of Thoracic Surgery
University of Florida Health - Gainsville

Class of 2021

Sarah Palmer, MD, MS
Cardiothoracic Surgery
Allina Health Minneapolis Heart Institute