Coming full circle: Niagara Falls native Dr. Jawdat Mustafa Joins NFMMC Primary Care team

From student volunteer to primary care physician: Mustafa, a Niagara Falls native and primary care physician at NFMMC’s Summit Healthplex, nominated by Niagara Falls School District with alumni award for dedication to serving hometown

Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center Press Release and Photo

In September, Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center proudly welcomed Jawdat A. Mustafa, M.D., M.P.H., a Niagara Falls native and accomplished primary care physician, to its team at the Summit Healthplex. Mustafa’s addition to NFMMC is especially significant, as his deep local ties to both the community and Memorial reflect his lifelong commitment to improving the health and well-being of Niagara Falls residents.

“Having Dr. Mustafa join our primary care team is a remarkable addition to our hospital and the entire Niagara Falls community,” said Joseph Ruffolo, NFMMC president and CEO. “His deep-rooted connection to this city, combined with his medical expertise and dedication to underserved populations, will undoubtedly make a lasting impact on the health and well-being of our residents.”

In recognition of his achievements, the Niagara Falls School District has nominated Mustafa for a distinguished alumni award. This nomination celebrates his professional success, dedication to service, and inspiring journey that has brought him full circle – from a student at Abate Elementary, LaSalle Middle School and Niagara Falls High School to a physician providing compassionate care to the community that shaped him.

“Dr. Mustafa’s journey from a student in our classrooms to a distinguished physician returning to serve Niagara Falls is truly inspiring,” said Mark Laurrie, Niagara Falls School District superintendent. “His achievements reflect the strength and potential of our students, and we are incredibly proud to see him recognized as an alumni who embodies the spirit of giving back to the community that shaped him.”

Mustafa’s academic path continued at Niagara University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology and volunteered at NFMMC. This experience deepened his connection to the hospital and inspired him to pursue a career focused on improving community health.

“We are so proud to welcome Dr. Mustafa back to Memorial, where he is now making a meaningful impact on the health of our community,” said Judy Villani, director of volunteer services at NFMMC. “During his time as a volunteer, he demonstrated an early passion for helping others and a deep-rooted connection to Niagara Falls, qualities that continue to define his work today.”

Mustafa went on to earn his medical degree from the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo, receiving honors like the Evan Calkins, MD, Community-Based Research Fellowship for his community-driven work.

Currently completing his residency in the combined internal medicine/preventive medicine program at the University at Buffalo, Mustafa has devoted his research and practice to addressing health disparities among underserved populations. His efforts have been widely recognized, earning him accolades such as the Clinical Research Poster Award from the New York American College of Physicians.

Mustafa’s return to NFMMC is both a professional milestone and a meaningful homecoming, highlighting his steadfast dedication to the well-being of his community. His expertise and compassion will enhance NFMMC’s primary care services, underscoring the value of investing in local talent.

Mustafa is currently accepting new patients at the Summit Healthplex, where he is committed to enhancing health care access and improving outcomes for the Niagara Falls community. To schedule an appointment, please call 716-297-8260.

Join us in celebrating Mustafa’s homecoming and his nomination for this distinguished honor.