Leadership

Program Director

Dana LaVanture, MD, FACS

Hometown: Loveland, Colorado
Undergrad School: Andrews University, Berrien Springs, Michigan
Medical School: Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California
Residency: Guthrie/Robert Packer Hospital
Fellowship: University of Connecticut
What drew me to General Surgery: I was fascinated with surgery from the time I was old enough to know about it.  The science of physiology and the intricacy of anatomy continue to "wow" me.  I have always enjoyed taking things apart and putting them back together (correctly!).  Surgery provides the perfect balance of daily intellectual challenges, highly technical manual skills,  a never-ending fountain of new knowledge to explore, and the ability to truly make a difference in people's lives.
What do I like to do in my free time: Climb mountains; hike, bike, and camp; incorporate my love of travel and adventure with wilderness medicine, global health, and integrative medical techniques to improve care in resource-limited environments; renovate houses; "homestead" in town; make great memories; love the life I get to live.

Assistant Program Director

Rebekah Macfie, MD

Hometown: Asheville, NC
Undergrad School: Hampshire College  
Medical School: University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill
Residency: Oregon Health & Science University
Fellowship: Complex General Surgical Oncology- Mount Sinai Hospital
What drew me to General Surgery: I was first drawn to General Surgery by not only the technical aspect but the intensity and importance of the relationship between a surgeon and their patient.  I became a Surgical Oncologist because I love the longitudinal, multidisciplinary care of patients paired with technically demanding operations.
What do I like to do in my free time: Hike, run, read and spend time with my family.

Program Coordinator

Wendy Colegrove

Hometown: Elmira, NY
What drew me to General Surgery: I joined Guthrie/RPH in 1991 and my experiences over the years have allowed me to work with a diverse group of physicians and surgeons throughout the organization. I’ve been blessed with opportunities to get to know them; from paperwork to saving lives to lifelong learning and teaching, all while navigating this thing we call life. When the position of General Surgery Residency Administrative Assistant became available in 2014, I jumped at the chance to learn all the how’s and why’s in the making of a surgeon. I’m constantly humbled by the work they do and honored to work with them. As the Coordinator now, I continue to admire the commitment our residents have made to surgery, and happy to be part of whatever great things they accomplish in their lives.   
What do I like to do in my free time: I’ve been a NASCAR fan for many years. I’m always getting lost in a good book. And beaches are my happy place.