The Pilot Medical Association Board officially launched its mentorship program with a meet-and-greet event in late February, bringing together alumni and members of the De La Salle Collegiate HOSA team in the Steve and Kathy McShane STEM Innovation Center.

“This was something the Pilot Medical Association wanted to do for a while,” organizers shared. “It was great to finally see it come to fruition.”

Ten students attended the evening session, where alumni shared their educational journeys, career paths, and professional experiences in the medical field. The goal was simple but meaningful: to reinforce that the De La Salle alumni network is ready and willing to support students as they pursue careers in medicine.

Alumni Participants

The program featured a diverse group of alumni representing a range of medical professions:

• Justin Desmet ’20
• Chris Fett ’90
• Dr. Jeff Fisher ’96
• Mike Hayosh ’05
• Mike Kornas ’11 (President)
• Thomas Kwiatkowski ’12
• Dr. Brad Sabo ’03
• Dr. Salvatore Ventimiglia ’89

Desmet reflected on the evening’s impact:

“This was a great opportunity for the HOSA students to learn about different medical careers. More importantly, I hope it helped them realize that the DLS alumni community is there to support all of their future endeavors.”

Both Desmet and Fett represent Abbott Laboratories, a leader in medical devices and healthcare technology.

Ventimiglia, a pediatrician, echoed that sentiment:

“It was a fruitful evening filled with thoughtful, appropriate questions about the future," Vemtimiglia said. "Alumni emphasized their willingness to serve as liaisons for internships, shadowing opportunities, and professional guidance.”

Sabo, a founding member of the Pilot Medical Association and a practicing chiropractor, noted that while events like these can feel intimidating, the students demonstrated impressive initiative.

“They asked great questions and had concerns that were very warranted at this point in their lives," Sabo said. "Our main message was that we are here and willing to help with anything they need.”

Fisher, also a current De La Salle parent, shared insights from his work in child and adult medicine and extended an open invitation for students to connect or shadow him in his practice.

“I was particularly impressed with the achievements of the students through HOSA, and the amazing academic opportunities they have through the STEM center and biomedical curriculum,” Fisher said.

“The students asked thoughtful questions—what it’s like to be in medical school, and what I like most and least about my profession. I encouraged them to not only look ahead to a medical career, but also to enjoy the present moment and prioritize their own health and well-being.”

Fisher also expressed enthusiasm for the program’s future.

“I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to give back to De La Salle, particularly in the medical field. I’m excited about the impact the Pilot Medical Association will have and look forward to future events.”

Potential future programming includes CPR certification courses and hands-on learning experiences using the Anatomage Table to simulate real-world medical scenarios.

Student Leadership & Engagement

Special recognition goes to junior Oliver Russell, who played a key role in organizing the event. He developed a student interest survey, coordinated responses through a Google Form, and helped manage communication efforts—laying the groundwork for a successful launch.

Students engaged in meaningful, candid discussions with alumni, asking about medical school, career challenges, specialties, and how to determine their path. Many expressed interest in fields such as anesthesiology and plastic surgery, driven by a desire to make a tangible impact on patients’ lives.

These one-on-one conversations provided students with valuable insight and a realistic understanding of the journey ahead.

Looking Ahead

The Pilot Medical Association mentorship program is designed to foster lasting relationships between alumni and aspiring medical professionals. Shadowing opportunities are already being explored, and additional programming is in development to expand student involvement.

For more information about the Pilot Medical Association or to get involved in the mentorship program, please contact Alumni Director Vito Chirco, '11, at vchirco@delasallehs.com.