A high school sports injury might have been the beginning of Elizabeth Gajardo-Stitt’s, D.P.M.’25, journey into podiatric medicine, but it was mentorship, resilience and a commitment to advocacy that shaped her path and brought her to Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences.
Her introduction to podiatry began as a patient under the care of Joshua Vest, D.P.M.’08, FACFAS, in Lincoln, Nebraska. Vest’s expertise and compassionate care not only addressed her injury but also planted the seeds of her interest in the field. Later, as a medical assistant in his clinic, she observed the science, decision-making and patient connection that defined his practice.
“From the onset, Dr. Vest demonstrated a belief in my potential that went far beyond what I believed in myself,” Gajardo-Stitt recalls. “His unwavering confidence in my abilities pushed me to pursue a path in podiatric medicine, even during times when I questioned my own capabilities.” Vest’s mentorship included challenging her to think critically and strive for excellence and was paired with high expectations and genuine support.
She credits her leadership role as president of the Student Government Association as a formative experience, honing her advocacy skills and ability to effect meaningful change. “Being able to identify common concerns, prioritize issues and find actionable solutions was essential,” she explains. “I wasn’t just leading meetings or managing projects — I was learning to influence positive change within my community and advocate for a cause larger than myself.”
Gajardo-Stitt’s accomplishments are numerous, yet her journey has also been deeply personal. The loss of her mother midway through medical school reinforced the importance of empathy in her approach to health care. “The decisions surrounding her hospice care illuminated the impact of grace and understanding, shaping the kind of physician I aspire to be,” she says.
As a future podiatrist, Gajardo-Stitt envisions herself providing holistic, patient-centered care with a focus on underserved communities. “I aspire to treat each patient as an individual, taking the time to listen to their concerns, build trust and create personalized treatment plans,” she says. “Access to health care is a fundamental right, and I want to ensure patients from underserved communities receive the quality care they deserve.”
For Vest, one of DMU’s 2024 alumni of the year honorees, witnessing Gajardo-Stitt’s journey has been a source of pride. “It has been rewarding to see Elizabeth grow into a leader in podiatry,” he says. “She exemplifies the values of compassion, professionalism and dedication to patient care that are central to this profession.” As Gajardo-Stitt prepares for her future, she carries forward the lessons and values of those who have shaped her journey. “My experiences have taught me that podiatric medicine is not just about treating the foot and ankle, but about understanding the broader implications of a patient’s health and well-being,” she says. “I strive to advocate for holistic, compassionate care that fosters healing, dignity and hope.”
Gajardo-Stitt Earns National Recognition
Elizabeth Gajardo-Stitt, D.P.M.’25, was honored as the 2024 American Podiatric Medical Student Association’s National Student of the Year. This recognition came after her selection as one of 11 College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery Student of the Year recipients at DMU. “This award truly was an honor and a privilege to receive. As a little girl, I said I wanted to be a doctor because I wanted to help people. I still do,” Gajardo-Stitt says.
“This achievement aligns with my goals by providing opportunities for further learning and professional development, reinforcing my desire to contribute meaningfully to my future profession.”
“Elizabeth is deserving of this award because she is a selfless leader. She has done so many things to help her class, the college and the university,” says Kevin Smith, D.P.M.’95, Ph.D., FACFAS, DMU’s dean of the College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery. “She puts others before herself and can be counted on to get things done.”