Residency

At the University of Colorado, we believe exceptional anesthesiology training starts with outstanding clinical experience, dedicated teachers, a strong educational foundation, and a supportive culture.

Exceptional Clinical Training

Clinical training is the heart of our program. Residents rotate through University of Colorado Hospital (UCH), Children’s Hospital Colorado (CHCO), the Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center, and Denver Health Medical Center, gaining experience across a remarkable breadth of patients, pathology, and practice settings.
Our large regional referral network and broad patient catchment area provide exposure to a high volume of complex and rare pathology, including advanced tertiary and quaternary care, pediatric and congenital disease, trauma, and medically complex patients. The diversity of our training sites prepares residents to care confidently for virtually any patient population or clinical challenge.
Equally important, residents learn from knowledgeable, approachable faculty who are passionate about teaching. Our attendings provide thoughtful mentorship, progressive autonomy, and the opportunity to develop both technical skills and sound clinical judgment.

Education & Simulation

Our robust didactic curriculum complements the clinical experience through structured lectures, case-based learning, conferences, and board preparation. Our state-of-the-art simulation center allows residents to practice high-stakes clinical scenarios, refine technical and communication skills, and develop confidence in a safe, supportive environment.

A Culture of Support

Our greatest strength is our people. Our educational leadership and faculty are deeply invested in resident development, mentorship, and well-being. We recruit residents who are kind, curious, collaborative, and committed to excellence, creating a culture where residents work hard, support one another, and genuinely enjoy being part of the program.
Wellness is integrated throughout residency, with dedicated resources, retreats, and opportunities to connect outside the hospital. Many graduates choose to stay at Colorado for fellowship or as faculty—a reflection of the strong relationships and community they build here.

Opportunities to Pursue Your Interests

Residents can further tailor their training through specialized opportunities, including:

• Combined Anesthesiology & Critical Care Medicine Track (CCAM)
• Resident Research Track for those pursuing research-focused careers
• Global Health Elective for CA-2 residents

Why University of Colorado Anschutz?

At Colorado, you will receive high-volume, high-acuity clinical training, encounter complex and uncommon pathology, learn from exceptional faculty, and benefit from a comprehensive curriculum and outstanding simulation program—all within a culture that genuinely supports its residents.

“We are committed to training excellent anesthesiologists while making sure our residents enjoy the people, experiences, and community along the way.” Mario Villasenor, Residency Program Director

Learn more about our residency program from Kenji Tanabe, MD who was a resident and is now a faculty member.

Vision Statement

The Department of Anesthesiology aspires to leverage the transformative power of access and community through comprehensive, systematic, and sustainable programs including mentorship, faculty and trainee recruitment, research, and community outreach & professional engagement for the advancement of excellence in healthcare, medical education, health outcomes, and professional development of community members.

Residency Program Director

Mario Villaseñor, MD

Associate Professor, Anesthesiology
View bio >

Associate Program Director, Director of Recruitment

Mitchell Gist, MD

Associate Program Director, Class of 2024

Bethany Benish, MD

Associate Program Director, Class of 2025

Young May Cha, MD

Assistant Professor, Anesthesiology
View bio >

Associate Program Director, Class of 2026

Michael Canepa, MD

Assistant Professor, Anesthesiology
View bio >

Associate Program Director, Class of 2027

Kenji Tanabe, MD

Assistant Professor, Anesthesiology
View bio >

Nicole Lacroix  (she/her/hers)

Education Manager | Department of Anesthesiology
University of Colorado | Anschutz Medical Campus
12631 E. 17^th Avenue, Ste. 2001, Mail Stop 8202 | Aurora, CO 80045

Email: nicole.lacroix@cuanschutz.edu

Tara Boyle  (she/her/hers)

Resident Program Coordinator | Department of Anesthesiology
University of Colorado | Anschutz Medical Campus
12631 E. 17^th Avenue, Ste. 2001, Mail Stop 8202 | Aurora, CO 80045

Email: tara.boyle@cuanschutz.edu