With envelopes in hand and a room full of anticipation, the Class of 2026 at East Tennessee State University’s Quillen College of Medicine learned on Match Day Friday where they will begin the next stage of their medical training — matching into residency programs across 29 states.

The Class of 2026 had a perfect 100% match rate for its 88 graduates. Of those, 31 will remain in Tennessee for their residencies, including 14 who matched with ETSU Health.

“Match Day celebrates academic achievement, but it also celebrates resilience, teamwork and the calling to care for others,” said Dr. Bill Block, dean of the Quillen College of Medicine and ETSU’s vice president for Clinical Affairs.

Fifty-three students in total will remain in Tennessee and surrounding states –— Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia — Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia — reflecting the college’s commitment to strengthening the health care workforce in Appalachia and the Southeast.

Five students matched into residency programs through military service.

Forty-one students matched into primary care residencies, as the Quillen College of Medicine continues to be a national leader in the number of graduates practicing primary care in rural and underserved areas.

In 2025, Quillen earned high marks in U.S. News & World Report’s annual “Best Medical School Rankings,” ranking second in the nation for the number of graduates practicing in medically underserved areas. Quillen was also designated as a “Tier 1” school for primary care, placing it inside the top 16 in the nation.

Both rankings were the best among colleges in Tennessee and speak to the college’s commitment to serving the underserved and the university’s role as the flagship institution of Appalachia.

“What stands out is not just where our students matched, but the purpose they carry with them,” said Block. “These students have been preparing for this day for years through rigorous coursework, clinical experience and service to patients. They’re ready for residency, and they’re ready to make a difference.”

To learn more about the Quillen College of Medicine, visit etsu.edu/com/.