Mary Charleton

• Title: Outstanding Graduate/Professional Student

A medical student from Rochester, New York, Mary Charleton has focused on giving back to her community while in graduate school. Her work with the Columbus Free Clinic (CFC) and Sanctuary Night has shaped her into a compassionate and dedicated leader in healthcare advocacy. Witnessing the vulnerabilities faced by marginalized groups, particularly women at risk of sexual exploitation, deeply impacted Mary's perspective on the shortcomings of the healthcare system. Her experiences have equipped her with the skills, knowledge, and determination to effect meaningful change in healthcare access and outcomes for underserved communities. As she continues her journey into Emergency and Internal Medicine, Mary remains steadfast in her commitment to advocating for the most vulnerable members of society, carrying forward the legacy of compassion and service instilled in her by her experiences.