Meet Our Leadership Team

MEG KIHLSTROM, MD

Program Director

In March 2021, Dr. Meg Kihlstrom stepped into the role of Program Director, bringing with her a deep-rooted passion for education and an unwavering commitment to the Department of Pediatrics. A true Tar Heel at heart, Dr. Kihlstrom’s journey through medicine has been a full-circle experience at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill — from undergraduate studies to medical school, residency, and fellowship training in Critical Care. Since joining the faculty in 2015, Dr. Kihlstrom has been an active medical educator. She’s guided medical students as a career goal advisor, helped direct the School of Medicine’s Transition to Residency course, and played a pivotal role in residency training as the PICU rotation director and co-director of the simulation curriculum. She continues to mentor critical care fellows through their Scholarship Oversight Committees. Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Kihlstrom is a proud mom to two energetic and busy boys and three beloved dogs — Coal, Josie, and Lucy — who keep life lively at home.

SOFIA ALIAGA, MD, MPH

Associate Program Director

Dr. Aliaga brings expertise and a global perspective to her role as a neonatologist at NC Children’s Hospital. Spending much of her early life in Peru, she earned both her undergraduate and medical degrees from Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia before continuing her training in the U.S. — completing her pediatric residency at the University of Colorado and her Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine fellowship at UNC Chapel Hill. As Associate Program Director, she serves as a class advisor and leads the simulation curriculum, blending clinical excellence with innovative teaching. Outside the hospital, Dr. Aliaga enjoys life’s simple pleasures — savoring a great cup of coffee, exploring the waters as a new boating enthusiast, and doting on her two Chesapeake Bay retrievers, Howard and Gertrude, who she lovingly describes as her “mild obsession.”

CLAIRE BETHEL, MD

Chief Resident

Dr. Bethel joined our residency program after earning her medical degree from USF Health Morsani College of Medicine. Though she’s a native Floridian, North Carolina has long held a special place in her heart — she spent four years at Wake Forest University for undergrad and is thrilled to be back in the Tar Heel State. Fun fact: Dr. Bethel is a fraternal triplet! She shares her adventurous spirit with two sisters and spends her free time hiking scenic trails and saltwater fishing whenever she gets the chance. When it comes to local favorites, she’s a big fan of M Pocha and loves discovering new spots on the Triangle’s vibrant brewery scene.

MIKE BROWN, MD, MPH

WakeMed Site Director

Dr. Brown is a pediatric hospitalist based at WakeMed, where he leads the inpatient program with dedication and expertise. A graduate of Brandeis University, he earned both his MD and MPH from the University of North Carolina, where he also completed his residency training. Before joining the WakeMed faculty in 2015, Dr. Brown served as an attending physician at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, bringing valuable experience to his current role. At UNC, Dr. Brown plays a key role in residency education, overseeing all aspects of the inpatient program at WakeMed and serving on the Clinical Competency Committee. His approach combines clinical excellence with a deep commitment to mentorship and training. When he’s not in the hospital, you’ll likely find Dr. Brown outdoors — whether he’s hitting the road, hiking through the woods, or venturing deep into the mountains. He and his wife are the proud parents of three energetic sons who share his love for adventure.

LAURA CANNON, MD

Associate Program Director

Dr. Cannon is an Assistant Professor in the Division of Rheumatology, where she blends clinical expertise with a passion for teaching. A proud graduate of both Duke University and the UNC School of Medicine, she completed her pediatric residency and served as Chief Resident at UNC before returning to Duke for fellowship training in Pediatric Rheumatology. She rejoined the UNC family in August 2021 as part of the Pediatric Rheumatology team. She plays a vital role in shaping future pediatricians — serving on the Pediatric Intern Selection Committee, mentoring fourth-year students as a Career Goal Advisor, and guiding early learners as a Case-Based Learning Facilitator. When she’s not working with students or caring for patients, Dr. Cannon embraces the joyful chaos of life with her partner and three young children — a household full of energy, laughter, and love.

STEPHANIE DAVIS, MD

Chair, Department of Pediatrics

Dr. Davis is a lifelong Tar Heel with deep roots in North Carolina. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina and went on to receive her medical degree from Wake Forest University School of Medicine. Her journey in pediatrics took her to Indiana University School of Medicine, where she completed both her residency and fellowship training in pediatric pulmonology. Dr. Davis first joined the UNC faculty in 1999, serving for over a decade before taking on leadership roles at Indiana University. There, she made a lasting impact as Vice Chair for Clinical Affairs, Division Chief for Pediatric Pulmonology, and Director of Ambulatory Services at Riley Children’s Hospital. In July 2018, Dr. Davis returned to UNC as Chair of the Department of Pediatrics — a homecoming that brought her full circle. Her leadership is marked by a commitment to clinical excellence, innovation, and mentorship.

MOLLY DECRISTO, MD, PhD

Chief Resident

Dr. DeCristo is a proud double Tar Heel, having earned both her undergraduate and medical degrees from the University of North Carolina. She also holds a PhD from Harvard University, bringing a unique blend of clinical insight and research expertise to her work in pediatrics. Outside of work, Dr. DeCristo enjoys spending time outdoors and recreating cherished family recipes with her partner — Italian, Venezuelan, and Cuban dishes are their favorites. Life at home is lively and joyful, thanks to their young daughter who keeps them on their toes.

KATIE JORDAN, MD

Associate Program Director

Dr. Jordan is a dedicated member of the Division of General Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, with a passion for mentoring future pediatricians and advancing primary care education. She earned her undergraduate degree from Williams College and her medical degree from the University of North Carolina, where she also completed residency training in the Primary Care Program and served as Chief Resident. Before joining the UNC faculty, Dr. Jordan practiced at Cone Health, gaining valuable experience in community-based care. Now, as Associate Program Director, she leads the Continuity Clinic and directs UNC School of Medicine’s Pediatrics FIRST Program — an innovative, accelerated track that allows students to complete medical school in three years and transition directly into UNC’s residency program. Dr. Jordan’s commitment to education is matched by her love for family. She and her partner dote on their beautiful daughter, embracing the joys of parenthood alongside a fulfilling career.

KELLY LEAR

Coordinator

Kelly joined the team in 2001 as the student coordinator/residency assistant. Since 2006, she’s focused exclusively on supporting the residency program, bringing unmatched dedication and institutional knowledge to everything she does. A proud Tar Heel, Kelly earned her BA in Psychology with a minor in Music Performance from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Per her 2024 Spotify Wrapped, she was a top 0.001% BON JOVI fan logging 34,184 minutes; in 2025, she is tirelessly working to maintain this exclusive status. According to her, flamingos are majestic, magical creatures, and Legend of Zelda (O.G. NES version) is the best video game ever. 

AMY LEVENSON, MD

Vice Chair of Education

Dr. McNeal-Trice is a passionate educator and leader in pediatric medicine, currently serving as Vice Chair of Education for the Department of Pediatrics. She earned her BS from Columbia University and her medical degree from Drexel University School of Medicine. She completed her residency training at St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children and Endocrinology fellowship training at Boston Children’s Hospital. Prior to joining UNC’s faculty in 2016, she was on faculty at Boston Children’s. At UNC, she has served as Program Director for the Endocrinology Fellowship and Director of the UNC Pediatrics Fellowship Training Programs.

RASHEEDA MONROE, MD

WakeMed Site Director for Outpatient Services

Dr. Monroe is a general pediatrician at WakeMed, where she serves as the medical director for WakeMed Children’s Primary Care Clinic. She earned both her undergraduate and medical degrees from East Carolina University and completed her pediatric residency training at the University of North Carolina. Before joining the WakeMed faculty, Dr. Monroe practiced in private care at Raleigh Children and Adolescent Medicine, gaining valuable experience in community-based pediatrics. Today, she leads outpatient education for the residency program at WakeMed, helping shape the next generation of pediatricians through hands-on learning and mentorship. Outside of medicine, Dr. Monroe and her partner are proud parents to two football-loving boys who keep their weekends lively and full of team spirit.

DENITA MOORE

Coordinator

Denita has been a vital part of the Pediatric Education Office since 2013, bringing heart, humor, and dedication to everything she does. She earned her BA in History with a minor in Education from North Carolina Central University, and her passion for learning and supporting others shines through in her work every day. Her personal story is just as charming — Denita married her high school sweetheart (cue the collective “aww”) and together they’re raising two dashingly handsome boys who keep life joyful and full of energy. A true coffee aficionado, Denita believes no day is complete without her favorite cup of joe. When she’s not in the office, you’ll likely find her curled up with a captivating romance novel or enjoying quality time with her family and friends.

SURESH NAGAPPAN, MD, MSPH

Cone Health Site Director and Primary Care Track Director

Dr. Nagappan is the director of the Pediatric Teaching Program at Cone Health, where he leads clinical education with a thoughtful, learner-centered approach. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan, his MD from Michigan State University, and his MSPH from the University of North Carolina. Since joining the UNC faculty in 2004, Dr. Nagappan has held several key roles within the School of Medicine. In his current position with the residency program, he oversees clinical rotations at Cone Health and directs the Primary Care Residency, helping shape the next generation of pediatricians through hands-on experience and mentorship. Outside of medicine, Dr. Nagappan enjoys hiking, biking, and playing the ukulele — admittedly, “badly,” he jokes. He also treasures time spent with his two teenage kids, whether they’re exploring nature or just hanging out.

PRIYANKA RAO, MD

Associate Program Director

Dr. Rao is an Associate Professor in the Division of General Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, where she brings a thoughtful, learner-focused approach to both clinical care and medical education. A proud Tar Heel, she earned her undergraduate degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, followed by her medical degree with distinction in Service and Global Health from the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine. She completed her pediatric residency and served as Chief Resident at the University of Michigan C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital, remaining on faculty there as a Clinical Instructor before joining UNC’s Division of GPAM in 2020. Dr. Rao has a long-standing passion for resident education and currently serves on both the Pediatric Residency Clinical Competency Committee and the Pediatric Intern Selection Committee. Her recent scholarly work explores the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on resident training and the future pediatric workforce — a reflection of her commitment to shaping the field through research and innovation. Away from work, Dr. Rao enjoys outdoor adventures, cooking, and traveling with her partner and their two children — a family that thrives on curiosity, connection, and shared experiences.

K’SHYLAH WHITEHURST, MD

Chief Resident

Dr. Whitehurst brings warmth and energy to her role in pediatrics, with a deep commitment to patient care and community. She earned both her undergraduate and medical degrees from East Carolina University and has a special place in her heart for eastern North Carolina. Outside of medicine, Dr. Whitehurst lives life to the fullest. She loves traveling, discovering gluten-free bakeries, spending time at the beach, and caring for her ever-growing collection of plants. Her miniature pinscher, Crimson, is her loyal walking companion — always up for a long stroll and a little adventure. She also cherishes time with friends and family, and her go-to spot for a delicious meal is Thai at Main Street.

SHIVA ZARGHAM, MD, MS

Associate Program Director

Dr. Zargham is a pediatric emergency medicine physician with a passion for quality improvement and patient safety. She earned her undergraduate degree from UNC Greensboro and her medical degree from the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, where she also completed her pediatric residency and served as Chief Resident. After a year as an Assistant Professor and Associate Program Director at ECU, Dr. Zargham pursued fellowship training in Pediatric Emergency Medicine at the University of Louisville, where she also earned a Master of Science in Clinical Investigation. She joined the UNC Pediatric Emergency Medicine team in 2019 and has been actively involved in advancing clinical education and safety practices, including research on clinical event debriefing for trainees. Outside of the emergency department, Dr. Zargham is a proud mom to three active daughters, a newly adopted bearded dragon, and a dog named Donut — who adds just the right amount of sweetness to their busy household. 

ERIC ZWEMER, MD

Associate Program Director

Dr. Zwemer is a pediatric hospitalist at NC Children’s Hospital, where he combines clinical excellence with a love for teaching and mentorship. He completed his undergraduate studies at Princeton University, earned his MD from Harvard Medical School, and completed both residency and Chief Residency at Boston Children’s Hospital. He joined the UNC faculty in 2015 and has been a key part of the residency program ever since. As Associate Program Director, Dr. Zwemer works closely with residents who are facing challenges, offering guidance, encouragement, and personalized support. Outside of work, Dr. Zwemer is a self-proclaimed book nerd, a regular at Orangetheory fitness classes (where he “pretends to be in shape”), and is currently learning to play the ukulele. He and his wife, Lillian, are the proud parents of two children who keep life joyful and full of surprises.