About Us

Kristen Smyers, MD, FACOG

Dr. Smyers is a graduate of Williamsville North High School and the Honors Program at the University at Buffalo magna cum laude. She was selected as an Early Assurance candidate to the University at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences in her sophomore year. She chose to specialize in obstetrics and gynecology and completed her residency training at Women and Children's Hospital of Buffalo, Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital, and Roswell Park Cancer Institute, among others. She has received the House Staff Teaching Award and Western New York Perinatal Bereavement Physician of the Year Award. After several years of partnership in private practice, she is proud to establish Legacy Gynecology PLLC as a place women can truly be heard and cared for in the manner they deserve.

Rena Kessel, DNP, RN, FNP-BC

Rena Kessel is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to women across the lifespan. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice and BSN from the University at Buffalo, graduating magna cum laude with multiple academic honors.

With a strong foundation in critical care, Rena brings a calm, skilled, and holistic approach to clinical practice. Her interests include reproductive health, preventive care, and addressing disparities in women's health. She has provided hands-on care through global health initiatives in Peru and Belize and presented her doctoral research on emergency contraception at the 2025 AACN Doctoral Education Conference.

Rena is committed to building trusted relationships and empowering women through open dialogue, education, and individualized care at every stage of life.

Chelsea Schake, LPN

A lifelong Buffalo resident, Chelsea obtained her nursing degree through Erie 1 Boces. She is a licensed practical nurse. She has been working closely with Dr. Smyers for more than ten years. Chelsea assesses vital signs, creates and maintains medical records, and assists with exams and procedures. She also gives injections. While not at work, she is raising her young family and planning her next Disney vacation!

Amanda Lewandowski, CMA (AAMA)

Born and raised in Buffalo, Amanda completed her schooling at ECC North campus. She is a certified medical assistant and is an active member of the American Association of Medical Assistants which means that she completes recertification every five years. Amanda has been working in the field of gynecology with Dr. Smyers for more than 10 years. She assists with all aspects of patient care including scheduling, procedures, and assisting patients with day to day needs. She enjoys camping and beach vacations with her husband and children.