2026 Education Committee Leader Spotlight
Darby Billing, MD
Assistant Vice Chair of the EMRA Education Committee, 2026
Program: Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Your goal as an EMRA leader:
My goal as an EMRA Leader is to support the continued growth of the EMRA members and connect like minded individuals, and further educational projects.
I became involved in a professional society to connect with others who share a common passion for emergency medicine and medical education. Being part of a community that values collaboration, advocacy, and lifelong learning has allowed me to pursue shared interests while learning from peers and mentors across the country. Through this involvement, I’ve found meaningful opportunities to contribute, grow professionally, and work alongside others who are equally committed to advancing our specialty.
What is the best advice you've ever received?
The best advice I’ve received is to pursue what you’re passionate about and trust that the work will be meaningful when it aligns with your interests.
What is something that people don't know about you?
That I'm a twin!
If you weren't an emergency physician, what would you be?
If I weren’t an emergency medicine physician, I would be a chef or party planner. I love hosting and creating welcoming spaces where people can come together, connect, and enjoy great food and conversation.
What is your favorite hack for night shifts?
Before a night shift, I go for a double espresso and lots of bright light. Afterward, I rely on melatonin, a sound machine, and an eye mask to wind down and get good sleep.
What app on your phone consumes the most of your time?
iMessages
What is the last non-textbook you read?
Circe by Madeline Miller
Favorite channel on social media?
Dr. Rachel Southard on Youtube
What are your tops songs on your Spotify Wrapped?
Espresso, Busy Woman, Tonight, The Door - cyril remix, Dive
Cassandra Smith, MD
Assistant Vice Chair of the EMRA Education Committee, 2026
Program:
University of Chicago
What is your goal as an EMRA leader?
I have been heavily involved in medical education since medical school and want to continue those efforts on a larger scale. I want to serve as a voice for residents and medical students to grow the field of emergency medicine, and be an advocate for those who may not have access to additional educational opportunities.
I have been an EMRA member for a few years and benefited from the educational resources they provide. I chose to get involved because I want to influence emergency medicine training for the future. I also wanted to connect with individuals who share the same passion for education and advocacy.
No one has the power to tell you what you can and cannot achieve except for you. So, don't let other people try to dictate what you're capable of.
If I weren't an emergency physician, I would be:
I would be a full time fiction author. I have been writing short stories since I was 8 years old and am hoping to publish some of my work in the future.
What app on your phone consumes the most of your time?
Kindle! I'm currently on an over 800 day reading streak.
What is the last non-textbook you read?
Where Secrets Find Solace by Kimberly Brown
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