UCSF Fresno Renames Wilderness Medicine Elective
The program at the Fresno campus now honors its late founder, Dr. Lori A. Weichenthal.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in National Parks
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UCSF Fresno has officially renamed its wilderness medicine elective in honor of its founder, Dr. Lori A. Weichenthal. The two-week course is known for its rigorous training sessions conducted within Yosemite National Park.
Why it matters
The renaming recognizes Dr. Weichenthal for establishing a curriculum that teaches medical students to improvise and solve problems in remote environments. This training remains vital for preparing future physicians for both hospital trauma cases and wilderness search and rescue scenarios.
The elective spans two weeks, with participants spending six days training in Yosemite National Park. Approximately 20 students enroll in the program each year, with 15 currently participating.
The players
Dr. Lori A. Weichenthal
She was the founder of the UCSF Fresno wilderness medicine elective and served as its director for 15 years.
Dr. Michelle Storkan
She serves as the current director of the wilderness medicine elective, having taken over the role in 2016.
The details
Students in the program undergo practical training in search and rescue, water safety, and low-visibility navigation techniques. This hands-on experience in remote settings helps participants develop the adaptability needed to handle medical emergencies with limited resources.
Timeline
The elective was founded nearly 25 years ago.
Dr. Lori A. Weichenthal served as the course director until 2016.
Dr. Lori A. Weichenthal passed away in February 2023.
The program was officially renamed on October 15, 2026.
Travel Outlook
The UCSF Fresno wilderness medicine elective stands as a long-running initiative that prepares medical professionals for the realities of working in remote, high-stakes environments. This renaming highlights the lasting legacy of academic programs that bridge the gap between traditional hospital-based training and real-world outdoor safety protocols.
Medical students or aspiring participants in Fresno should note that enrollment is limited to approximately 20 students per year. Prospective applicants must coordinate with the UCSF Fresno campus to ensure they meet the prerequisites for this high-intensity training program.
The takeaway
Dr. Weichenthal left a lasting impact on medical education by ensuring students possess the skills to navigate complex, non-clinical environments. The renaming serves as a reminder of how dedicated educators shape the practical preparedness of the next generation of doctors.
Further reading
For more information on programs held in local protected lands, visit the National Parks section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Valley Public Radio.
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