There’s a new class of physician leaders in Central Ohio! On June 26, 2025, the Physicians Leadership Academy (PLA) celebrated 17 remarkable graduates at a ceremony and reception at the Columbus Medical Association. Leaders, instructors, alumni, and supporters gathered to honor the Class of 2025—each physician having spent the last nine months investing in deep reflection, connection, and personal growth.

From early-career professionals to those nearing retirement, these graduates embraced the opportunity to step outside the demands of traditional medical leadership and into a program designed to be truly transformational. 

“I was apprehensive to get involved, especially with the time commitment, but I’m so grateful I did,” said Class of ’25 Graduate Dr. Miriam El-Rif. “The program gave me space to just be and reminded me who I am outside of work. PLA brought me back to myself.”

PLA is not a typical leadership course—it’s a unique, holistic experience that invites participants to rediscover who they are as human beings, not just as physicians. Rooted in complexity theory, mindfulness, and coaching, the program offers space to reconnect with purpose and regain a sense of agency in a profession that often feels isolating.

Click here to view  photos from the event.

Ready to Invest in Yourself? Registration is Open for the Class of ’26.
As we celebrate this class, we also look ahead. Applications are now open for the next PLA cohort. If you or a colleague are ready to step into a space designed for deep learning, genuine connection, and personal evolution, we invite you to learn more. PLA is for those who are ready to ask the hard questions, reflect deeply, and lead with authenticity. Visit physiciansleadershipacademy.org to learn more.

PLA Class of ’25 Graduates:

• Lauren Bar-Lev, MD, COPC Ohio Center for Pediatrics
• Michelle Birkenholz, DO, Columbus Metropolitan Obstetrics & Gynecology Inc
• Tiffany Corbean, MD, OPG Marengo
• Joshua da Silva, DO, Emergency Services, Inc.
• Megan Early, DO, OPG Primary Care Bexley
• Miriam El-Rif, MD, COPC Internal Medicine Group
• Michael Luy, MD,  MCMG Franklinton
• Pina Patel, MD, Ohio Health Physician Group
• Domenico Pietropaolo, MD, COPC Ohio Center for Pediatrics
• Mona Prasad, DO, OhioHealth OPG Maternal Fetal Medicine
• Haval Saadlla, MD Mount Carmel Pulmonary & Sleep Grove City
• Jennifer Sipos, MD, Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center
• Kristen Terranova, DO Mount Carmel OBGYN Grove City
• Peter Unkovic, DO,  Mount Carmel Heart & Vascular Specialists McNaughten
• Maria Waizmann, MD,  Mount Carmel Medical Group Westerville Maxtown
• Jason Winterhalter, MD, COPC Cherry Westgate Family Practice
• Misha Yajnik, MD, OPG Pediatrics Marysville