Peer Academic Leaders announced for 2026-2027

Posted on August 4, 2026

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The Whiddon College of Medicine has named its Peer Academic Leaders (PALs) for the 2026-2027 academic year, recognizing a group of academically accomplished medical students who will serve as mentors and academic resources for their classmates.

The Peer Academic Leadership (PAL) Program engages motivated and academically successful second-, third- and fourth-year medical students in supporting their peers through academic guidance, learning support and peer-led programming. Through the program, PALs help foster a collaborative, respectful learning environment while promoting effective learning strategies that contribute to student success.

Throughout the academic year, Peer Academic Leaders provide individual and group academic support, facilitate workshops, study groups and peer-led review sessions, and collaborate with fellow PALs and academic support staff to strengthen academic programming. They also participate in orientation, training and professional development sessions while maintaining professionalism, reliability and student confidentiality.

The program is led by Angie O'Neal, M.Ed., director of learning support services in the Office of Academic Success.

“One of the greatest strengths of the Whiddon College of Medicine is the willingness of our students to support one another,” O'Neal said. “Our Peer Academic Leaders help create a culture where asking questions, sharing study strategies, and learning together are encouraged. Their leadership not only helps their classmates succeed academically but also strengthens our entire learning community.”

The following students will serve as Peer Academic Leaders this year:

M2s

Logan Brewer
Melanie Calderon Bernuy
Jonah Celeski
Lucy Harrison
Mills Hensley
Jeremy Herren
Connor Holm
Bayne Jarvis
Anna Grace Johnson
Ben Marshall
Juanita Monteiro-Pai
John Nathan
Caroline Weisenfeld
Wesley Yarbrough