Our Residents
Current Residents
Why we chose Saint Francis: We picked this program for a multitude of reasons. First and foremost, the program is extremely well rounded, with podiatry clinic, wound care clinic and a high surgical volume. Seeing as residency is your time to learn surgery, the high surgical volume and hands-on training at St. Francis really attracts people to the program. We have access and opportunities to work with 35+ attendings. We saw it as a way to find our own style based on seeing how different skilled surgeons approach the same cases differently, including different techniques and hardware. Furthermore, residents have a lot of autonomy, especially in our surgical clinic, where we get to make decisions on how to treat patients and scheduling patients for surgery with appropriate guidance from our supervising attendings. Being handed the blade in surgery and having trust put into us builds confidence, which is something we noticed during our time here as students, externs, and now residents. Former residents who have graduated from this program are extremely skilled and prepared in all aspects, ranging from clinic to wound care to surgery. We feel confident we will be prepared when we finish residency. The family style atmosphere amongst the residents has made us all feel at home. Us residents hang out outside of work, including intramural sports, and sometimes even hang out with attendings outside the workplace. We are glad we picked St Francis for podiatric residency and would do it again in a heartbeat.
PGY3 - Residents
Fionna Williamson
Dr. Williamson was raised in a Navy family, an experience which instilled adaptability, curiosity, and a love of new experiences in her early on. She went on to earn undergraduate degrees in Biology and Physics from the University of Virginia where she built a strong scientific foundation and developed a lasting interest in the mechanics of human health and healing.
She earned her Doctor of Podiatric Medicine from Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine, where she developed clinical interests in trauma, sports medicine, and wound care. She is especially passionate about providing thoughtful, patient-centered care. Outside of medicine, she enjoys reading, hiking, kayaking, and spending time with her husband and beloved menagerie of pets.
Michael Lipari
Dr. Lipari is originally from Detroit, Michigan, and earned his undergraduate degrees in Human Biology and Neuroscience from Michigan State University. During his time there, he was an integral member of the university’s club hockey team, serving as team captain and leading the program to a national championship while earning tournament MVP honors. His success on the ice led to a brief minor professional hockey career before he returned to pursue further education.
Driven by a passion for science and patient care, Dr. Lipari completed a post-baccalaureate degree in Medical Laboratory Science from Andrews University and worked at a hospital in metro Detroit, where he also served as the manager of the overnight shift. Seeking to combine his analytical background with direct patient interaction, he ultimately found his calling in podiatric medicine.
With an extensive athletic background, Dr. Lipari has a strong interest in sports medicine, particularly in the treatment and prevention of foot and ankle injuries. He is dedicated to helping patients return to the activities they enjoy while providing comprehensive care across all aspects of foot and ankle health. Outside of his professional life, his passions include traveling, athletics, and spending time with his wife and family.
PGY2 - Residents
Victoria Bessette
Victoria earned her undergraduate degree in Forensic Science at Roger Williams University before obtaining her Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree from the Temple University School of Podiatric Medicine. She grew up in Massachusetts and was inspired to pursue Podiatry from her life in ballet. Victoria spends her free time sewing, reading, and playing with her cat named Artemis.
Connor Desmond
Born in Boston Dr. Desmond attended the University of Vermont majoring in Biochemistry with a minor in Molecular Genetics. Attended Barry University school of Podiatric Medicine in Miami, FL. Completed EMT training at Yale sponsor hospital. Interests include Mountain biking, snowboarding, fishing, lacrosse, golf, and waterskiing.
PGY-1 Residents
Mary Thomas
Mary Thomas is a 1st year resident at Saint Francis Hospital. Originally from Weston, CT she earned her undergraduate degree from Siena University. She went on to receive a master’s degree from New York Medical College before obtaining her DPM at the New York College of Podiatric Medicine. Outside of practicing Podiatry she enjoys fashion, Pilates and spending time with her family and two dogs.
Josh Joson
I was raised in Bear Delaware. I went to undergrad at the University of Delaware. For podiatry school I went to Temple University. Some of my favorite activities include playing basketball, chess, working out, and going on long walks.