Faculty Directory
| Bio | Photo | Publications | Faculty Member | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adam Hickenbotham, OD, MPH, PhD | Doctor of Optometry | Dean | Doctor of Optometry | Dean | |||||
| Allison Schuette, MS, CCC-SLP | Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) | Adjunct Faculty | Allison Schuette is a speech-language pathologist who joined RMUoHP in January 2020 as a Clinical Educator in the M.S. SLP program. She earned her B.S. and M.S. degrees at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale. Allison has clinical experience working with individuals from infancy to geriatrics in a variety of settings, including, early intervention, public schools, home health, and skilled nursing facilities. Her clinical focus has included assessing and treating children with autism and other complex communication disorders. She is a member of the Utah Assistive Technology Team and has developed advanced clinical skills in augmentative and alternative communication and assistive technology in the school setting. | /images/faculty/schuette-allison.jpg | Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Allyce K. Jones, DNP, MSN, PMHNP-BC, APRN, CNE, NCMP, PMH-C | College of Nursing | Program Director | Dr. Jones received her Bachelor of Science degrees in Nursing from Weber State University, and in Family, Consumer, and Human Development from Utah State University. As a registered nurse, she worked with patients with mental health disorders in outpatient, inpatient, and residential settings. She completed a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with an emphasis in education from Weber State University. She then earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in the Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specialty track at the University of Utah. Dr. Jones completed post-graduate fellowships in Women's Mental Health and Public and Community Psychiatry at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center. She maintains a practice specializing in women's mental health and reproductive psychiatry. Dr. Jones is the program director of the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. She enjoys teaching psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner students and improving their assessment, diagnostic, and comprehensive treatment planning skills. | /images/faculty/nophoto.jpg | College of Nursing, College of NursingPsychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate (Post-Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric/Mental Health) | Program Director | |||
| Amber Collins, M.Ed | Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) | Faculty | /images/faculty/collins-amber.jpg | Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) | Faculty | ||||
| Amber B. Heape, C.Sc.D., CCC-SLP | Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Amber Heape is a graduate of the inaugural C.Sc.D. cohort at RMUoHP. She is a clinical specialist for a large healthcare corporation, having initiated several clinical interdisciplinary programs for the company while collaborating with physical therapy, occupational therapy, nursing, dietary, and respiratory therapy colleagues. She has partnered with multiple universities in both clinical supervision and coordinating graduate student placements throughout her career. As an adjunct professor at South Carolina State University, she has instructed graduate level courses or seminars in: dysphagia, voice disorders, communication in aging, adult language disorders, dementia, healthcare payer types and regulatory issues, and student self-efficacy. Dr. Heape has over 16 years of professional experience in multiple settings and administrative levels. She has authored numerous continuing education courses at state, national, and international events. She is a former President of the South Carolina Speech-Language-Hearing Association and board member of the Council of State Association Presidents. Dr. Heape’s primary research interests are in the areas of clinical supervision and geriatric practice. | /images/faculty/heape-amber.jpg | Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Amy Nwora, PhD, OTR | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Nwora's clinical experience centers on school-based treatment and psychosocial disability in children. She has worked extensively with pre-school and school-aged children diagnosed with emotional disturbance, ADHD, autism, and dyslexia, as well as a variety of physical disabilities. Dr. Nwora has a BS/MS in Occupational Therapy from D’Youville College, and a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology from the State University of New York at Buffalo. Current research pursuits include: the impact of COVID-19 on OT, sensory processing disorders/treatment, new treatment techniques for autism, the relationship between hand dominance and performance, and student perceptions of the school environment. | /images/faculty/nwora-amy.jpg | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Andrew Doyle, PhD, LAT, ATC, CSCS, Astym-Cert. | Master of Science in Health Science (MSHS) | Adjunct Faculty | Andrew Doyle currently is an adjunct professor at Trine University in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program where he teaches evidence based practice and facilitates research. Previously, he was a faculty member at University of Indianapolis in the Athletic Training Department in both the professional undergrad and masters programs. He spent ten years at Indiana Wesleyan University in Marion, Indiana as an Associate Athletic Trainer. While at IWU, he instructed clinical and didactic courses in the Professional Athletic Training Program, as well as the Post-Professional Masters of Science Athletic Training Program. He completed his Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Athletic Training at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. Dr. Doyle’s past clinical experience has included providing care to tennis and basketball athletes, high school athletes, and semi professional athletes. His research interests are in sport performance, therapeutic modalities, and manual interventions. Andrew has been a reviewer for athletic training texts, the Journal of Athletic Training and Sports Health Care, the Journal of Athletic Training, and the Journal of Sports Rehabilitation. He enjoys participating in cycling, camping, cooking, and creative home construction activities with his wife, Jill, and two sons, Macalister and Marshall. | /images/faculty/doyle-andrew.jpg | Master of Science in Health Science (MSHS) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Bartley Rust, DHSc, PA-C | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Program Director | Dr. Rust has practiced medicine as a PA since 2001. He received his Doctor of Health Science degree from Nova Southeastern University. His clinical experience includes internal medicine, family medicine, and urgent care. He has also provided health services for military personnel and veterans since 2006. He continues to practice as a PA providing disability exams for veterans. He has also served as a volunteer at free clinics for the medically underserved since 1998. Dr. Rust first became involved in PA education in 2006. Prior to rejoining Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions, he served as Director of Doctoral Education for the first six cohorts of Doctor of Medical Science students at the University of Lynchburg. Prior to focusing his career on doctoral education for PAs, Dr. Rust served as Director of Didactic Education for the PA program at A.T. Still University and then as Associate Program Director and Director of Simulation Education for the PA program at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. Dr. Rust has been actively involved in scholarly activity. He has served on item writing committees and workgroups for the Physician Assistant Education Association PACKRAT and End of Rotation exams since 2012. He currently serves on the PACKRAT item writing committee. He also currently serves on the review board for The Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice. In his free time, Dr. Rust enjoys outdoor activities, traveling, and spending time with his wife and four daughters. | /images/faculty/rust-bartley.jpg | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Program Director | |||
| Beth Christoffel, OTD, OTR/L, CHT | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Beth Christoffel earned her B.S. in Occupational Therapy from Indiana University in 2003 and her clinical doctorate with a concentration in administration and practice management (APM) from Rocky Mountain University in 2011. She specializes in upper extremity rehabilitation since 2004 and earned her CHT in 2008. Dr. Christoffel’s primary clinical interests include traumatic and post-surgical hand injuries. Her primary educational interest is to foster the use of evidence-based practice in entry-level and post-professional occupational therapy education. She lives in Indiana with her husband, daughter, and twin sons. She enjoys hiking, biking, tennis, and spending time at the beach. | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) | Adjunct Faculty | ||||
| Bradley Doll, MPAS, PA-C | Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) | Faculty | Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) | Faculty | |||||
| Brigitta Walker, SLPD, CCC-SLP | Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD) | Adjunct Faculty | Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD) | Adjunct Faculty | |||||
| Brittany Barhite, EdD | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Adjunct Faculty | Brittany Barhite obtained her doctorate degree in Leadership Studies at Bowling Green State University. Her research focuses on leadership communication, virtual communication technologies, and employee engagement. Dr. Barhite is well experienced in online learning. She has taught organizational communication and leadership courses at Bowling Green State University, as well as communication classes both online and in the classroom at Owens Community College. Dr. Barhite was also the Chief Operations Officer of Zepf Center, a nonprofit healthcare organization focused on both mental and physical health care for the underserved. There she grew her knowledge on the healthcare industry and honed her leadership skills. Currently, Dr. Barhite is the Sr. Communications lead at the Fortune 500 company, Owens Corning and serves as a faculty member at Rocky Mountain University. | /images/faculty/barhite-brittany.jpg | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Brooke Schweitzer, DMSc, PA-C | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Brooke Schweitzer is the Director of Advanced Practice at Ascension Texas. Prior to her work there, she served as Medical Director at MD Anderson Cancer Center and Supervisor for Advanced Practice Providers in Plastic and Reconstructive surgery. She has practiced in a number of capacities including clinical work in emergency, hospital, geriatric, and family medicine as well as in leadership, serving as interim CEO & CFO at a critical access hospital in Kansas. Dr. Schweitzer is an elected delegate for AAPA representing the Texas constituency and serves on the TAPA legislative affairs committee and Trustee of the Texas PA Political Action Committee. She is a member of Pi Alpha National PA honor society and serves as adjunct faculty at Rocky Mountain University teaching courses in healthcare administration, patient safety and medical quality. She received her Doctor of Medical Science degree from Lynchburg University in clinical medicine and healthcare administration and is a graduate of Des Moines University with a Master of Science Degree in Physician Assistant Studies. Her undergraduate degree was completed at Nebraska Wesleyan University in Biology, with minor degrees in Chemistry and Psychology. | /images/faculty/schweitzer-brooke.jpg | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Bryan Nelson, MMS, PA-C | Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) | Faculty | Bryan graduated from Cal State University- Northridge with a bachelor's degree in biology in 2004, after which he earned his Master of Medical Science Degree at the Midwestern University- Glendale campus PA program in 2007. Since graduation he has worked in Family Practice, Orthopedics, and Emergency Medicine. Since joining Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in 2018, he has enjoyed working with students and taking on this new role. He is currently working on completing the Doctor of Medical Science degree offered here at Rocky Mountain University. | /images/faculty/nelson-bryan.jpg | Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) | Faculty | |||
| Bryan M. Gee, Ph.D., OTD, OTR/L, BCP, CLA | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) | Faculty | Dr. Bryan M. Gee holds degrees from Idaho State University (Ph.D. & MEd), University of St. Augustine (OTD), and D’Youville College (BS/MS). Dr. Gee currently is AOTA Board Certification in Pediatrics, is certified in the Sensory Integration Praxis Test, Level I, II, and III Certified the Sensory Processing Disorder Foundation, and URLEND alumni. Dr. Gee started at RMUoHP as an adjunct instructor in 2014 for the Post Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program and served as Program Director since 2020. Dr. Gee has published over 35 peer-reviewed research articles and more than 60 national presentations related to sensory-based interventions, therapy dosage and therapy-related practice patterns, and parent education/training and sensory processing. He is credentialed as an AOTA Academic Leader and held previous administrative and leadership appointments at Idaho State University. Additionally, Dr. Gee has held various volunteer positions with AOTA and NBCOT, and currently is an Associate Editor with the American Journal of Occupational Therapy and represents the state of Idaho within AOTA’s Representative Assembly. | /images/faculty/gee-bryan.jpg | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) | Faculty | Department Chair | ||
| Cecile Pryor, MPH | Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) | Faculty | Cecile Pryor received her Bachelor's Degree from Brigham Young University, Master's Degree in Public Health Epidemiology from Rutgers University and is currently working on her doctorate in health promotion and wellness. Cecile's has previously worked at the Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute of Rutgers University. Currently, she is Principal Faculty and Admissions Manager for the Physician Assistant Program. Cecile's research interests include environmental epidemiology and air quality. | /images/faculty/pryor-cecile.jpg | Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) | Faculty | |||
| Chad Kerksick, PhD, CSCS*D, NSCA-CPT*D | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Adjunct Faculty | Chad M. Kerksick earned his PhD in Exercise, Nutrition and Preventive Health from Baylor University and holds a Master's degree in Exercise and Sports Science from the University of Memphis and a Bachelor's degree from Truman State University in Exercise Science. Dr. Kerksick is certified as a Sport Nutritionist by the International Society of Sports Nutrition (CISSN), a distinguished strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS*D) and personal trainer (NSCA-CPT*D) from the National Strength and Conditioning Association and is currently recognized as a fellow of the International Society of Sports Nutrition (FISSN), American College of Sports Medicine (FACSM), and the National Strength and Conditioning Association. He serves as a Senior Associate Editor for J Strength Cond Res and Associate Editor for Strength Cond J and is also a member of the Board of Directors for the National Strength and Conditioning Association Foundation. Dr. Kerksick continues to study exercise and nutrition interventions and their ability to impact the health, performance and recovery of healthy, athletic, aged and clinical populations. He founded and directs the Exercise and Performance Nutrition Laboratory (www.lindenwood.edu/EPNL), which is currently conducting several studies involving many different aspects of exercise and nutrition interventions for their impact on health, performance, and recovery. Dr. Kerksick has published multiple articles in areas related to weight loss and body composition, skeletal muscle physiology and intracellular signaling, supplementation and resistance training adaptations, supplementation and muscle damage and recovery, as well as athlete energy and nutritional balance. In these areas of expertise, he has published over 90 peer-reviewed scientific articles, given over 150 research presentations, authored multiple chapters, and edited two books: one on nutrient timing and another on sports nutrition needs for children and adolescent athletes. | /images/faculty/kerksick-chad.jpg | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Christa Young, PT, PhD, NCS | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Faculty | Christa Young was born and raised in central Wisconsin. She earned her BS in Kinesiology and MPT at University of Wisconsin in Madison. She then moved to the Denver area, practicing full time while earning her PhD in Clinical Science at the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center. During this time, she was able to practice in a wide variety of settings with a focus on clients with neurologic conditions. After finishing her degree, she moved back to the Midwest, practicing at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN within their inpatient acute and inpatient rehabilitation programs. She was then asked to start an outpatient neurologic program within a group practice in Eau Claire, WI, serving clients in very rural areas of the Northwoods. She loves skiing, backpacking and playing in the wild outdoors with her husband, daughter (5) and dog. | /images/faculty/young-christa.jpg | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Faculty | |||
| Cindy Stimart, SLPD, CCC-SLP, TSSLD | Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Cindy Stimart joined Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions as an adjunct Professor in the M.S. SLP program in August 2020. She earned her B.S. in Psychology at Stony Brook University (Stony Brook, NY) and her M.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of South Florida (Tampa, FL) in 1998 and 2007, respectively. She earned her doctorate in Speech-Language Pathology at Rocky Mountain University in 2019. Dr. Stimart has worked across settings specializing in pediatrics. She has a solid foundation in medical speech-language pathology with experience at Johns Hopkins All Childrens and Wolfsons Childrens Hospital concentrating on acute care, primarily covering the NICU, CVICU, Burn Unit, PICU and monthly rounds in pediatric gastroenterology and cardiac specialty care clinics. Her areas of clinical experience include pediatric speech-language, alternative augmentative communication (AAC) and assistive technology. Dr. Stimart has advanced experience in dysphagia secondary to prematurity, craniofacial abnormalities, cancer, trauma, non-accidental trauma, neurological disorders/syndromes and traumatic brain injuries. Additionally, Dr. Stimart expanded her practice areas to include private practice and school-based consultations to provide education, training and support to staff and speech-language pathologists. Dr. Stimart’s speech-language pathology experience across areas, both medical and educational, gives her a well-rounded perspective for teaching and mentoring speech-language pathology students that may fine themselves in either setting. Advanced procedures include modified barium swallow studies and use of artificial intelligence in research. Certifications include Beckman Oral Motor, SOS approach to Feeding, Lactation and Infant Massage. Dr. Stimart is also Hanen trained and an attendant of the Fragile Feeding Institute. Dr. Stimart’s teaching interests include pediatric speech-language pathology including, speech-language acquisition, dysphagia, anatomy and physiology of speech and hearing, and speech and hearing science. Dr. Stimart’s area of research interests and publications emcompass aspects of pediatric speech, language and dysphagia. She is committed to pursuing academic research and instruction. She has added research in our field with the use of artificial intelligence, the Tobii Nano, to record quantitative data (eye gaze) during food exposures. Her aim is to advance colleagues and professionals who can competently provide evidence-based, patient-centered care upon graduation. She is honored to be a faculty member of the M.S. SLP program at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. She and her husband, Tryn, and her two boys, Benjamin and Henry reside in Manorville, New York with their dogs Gracie and Olive. They enjoy cooking, exploring nature and traveling. | /images/faculty/stimart-cindy.jpg | Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Coleby Clawson, PT, DPT, CSCS | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Adjunct Faculty | Coleby is a licensed physical therapist and a graduate of Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions entry-level Doctor of physical therapy program. Coleby completed his undergraduate training in exercise science at Snow College and Brigham Young University, where he also played football. Before attending physical therapy school, he worked in the weight room with the BYU strength and conditioning staff with the football, basketball, baseball, rugby, and lacrosse teams. He currently serves as the clinic director for the RMU foundation Community Rehabilitation Clinic, as a home health physical therapist, and as an assistant faculty member in the DPT program at RMU. He is currently completing his DSc degree in Human and Sports Performance from RMUoHP. Coleby’s professional and academic interests include orthopedic and sports physical therapy, geriatric physical therapy, and strength and conditioning programs and athletes and older adults. Outside of his professional interests, his hobbies and interests include outdoor recreation, sports, and spending time with his wife, Breanna, and their four children. | /images/faculty/clawson-coleby.jpg | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Collette Renstrom, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC | Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) (Post-Master’s) | Adjunct Faculty | Collette Renstrom is originally from Ogden, Utah where she received her undergraduate degree in Nursing from Weber State University. She later earned a Master's degree in Patient Care Administration from the University of Utah, a post MSN certificate as a FNP at Indiana State University, and graduated in 2011 with a DNP from the University of Alabama. She has over 20 years of experience working in the field of nursing, including specialties of public health, occupational health, forensic nursing, college health, and family practice. She now works as a family nurse practitioner in a corporate occupational health setting managing US programs for a large manufacturing company. This role includes all US COVID response for the company, OSHA industrial health requirements, Travel Health, Worker’s Compensation case management, and clinical care onsite for 1000 employees in Salt Lake City. Collette loves living in Utah and enjoys travel, reading, hiking, skiing, and spending time with her husband and three children. | /images/faculty/renstrom-collette.jpg | Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) (Post-Master’s) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Court Wilkins, OD, MHS, FAAO | Assistant Dean for Clinical Affairs | Doctor of Optometry | Faculty | |||||
| Courtney Moore, C.Sc.D., CCC-SLP | Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD) | Assistant Program Director | Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD) | Assistant Program Director | |||||
| Crystal Miskin, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | CRC Clinical Director & Clinical Faculty | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | CRC Clinical Director & Clinical Faculty | |||||
| Darcy Hammar, CIM | Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD), Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Faculty | Ms. Hammar served as the non-scientist (community) member of the IRB from 2001 until 2008 at which time she began serving as the IRB Manager. In May 2017, she earned the Certified IRB Manager (CIM) distinction. Prior to joining RMU, she worked at the American Physical Therapy Association from 1992 to 1999 serving member components. Her last position was as Executive Director of the Section on Geriatrics. Her professional experience also includes program implementation for the American Lung Association and American Red Cross as well as historical research working with the American Institute for Ultrasound in Medicine on the Medical Diagnostic Ultrasound: A Retrospective on Its 40th Anniversary monograph and temporary Smithsonian exhibit. Long-interested in the intersection between health care providers and community/social beliefs about health, Ms. Hammar graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a BA in the History and Sociology of Science. She earned both “distinction in the major” and the Rose Research Award for her honors thesis, A Professional or Volunteer Approach?: Red Cross Nurses in WWI. Ms. Hammar continued her education at University of Wisconsin in the History of Science, again focusing on the history of medicine and nursing. Her master’s thesis was From Medical Exclusion to Health Education: Milwaukee Public School Nurses 1910-1920. | /images/faculty/hammar-darcy.jpg | Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD), Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Faculty | |||
| Darrell Matthews, MS, CCC-SLP | Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) | Adjunct Faculty | Darrell Matthews coordinates and supervises the Intensive Stuttering Treatment Program at Rocky Mountain University's Center for Communication Disorders, as well as teaches a fluency disorders course. He has clinical experience in the school setting as well as private practice and specializes in the treatment of fluency disorders. He received an undergraduate degree and Master of Science in Communication Disorders from Brigham Young University. | /images/faculty/matthews-darrell.jpg | Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Dawn R. Girten, SLPD, CCC-SLP | Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD) | Adjunct Faculty | I am an outpatient Clinical Manager for Speech-Language Pathology services at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. In addition to managing the ten outpatient satellites, I am the Division’s hiring manager and am involved in quality improvement projects. Clinically, I am involved in a NIH-grant providing language services via telehealth to caregivers of children with Fragile-X and am passionate about providing comprehensive language evaluations to children. My specialty areas include evaluations for children with autism spectrum, auditory processing, receptive, expressive, and pragmatic language deficits. I am also an adjunct professor at the University of Cincinnati, teaching language disorders in older children. | /images/faculty/girten-dawn.png | Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Denise Pickett-Bernard, PhD, RDN, LDN, IFMCP | | Adjunct Faculty | DENISE PICKETT-BERNARD PhD, RDN, LDN, IFMCP, is both a registered and licensed dietitian (FL, GA). She has worked as a full-time faculty member, Assistant Dean of Nutrition, a chef, culinary arts faculty, wellness center nutritionist, and has appeared on television as a nutritional expert. Dr. Dee has developed courses, degree programs and curricula at the university level. In particular, her expertise in culinary nutritional medicine is sought after for her unique view as both a classically trained chef and functionally trained nutrition professional. In addition to her functional expertise, she has extensive experience in pediatric (teen and child) sports nutrition, maternal and child nutrition, general weight loss, as well as culinary arts. She has an active private practice including digital offerings on her website, www.drdeenutrition. Presently she teaches and is the Director of the Functional Nutrition Certificate at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions.Dr. Dee’s academic background includes a degree from the Culinary Institute of America, a BS in Food Service Management from Johnson & Wales University, and an MS in Food Science and Nutrition from the University of Rhode Island. She earned a Ph.D. from Barry University studying spiritual factors which affect weight control maintenance. She has been in private practice for over 20 yrs providing functional nutrition therapy, corporate consultations, and public presentations. She has developed 2 products, R3 by her company www.ReVitalizePro.com (a rehydration and recovery supplement beverage), and Phyto-oil a skin oil that exploits the research on phytonutrients which provide anti-aging benefits when used topically. Dr. Dee stays up-to-date on all functional medicine innovations as an Institute for Functional Medicine Certified Practitioner. She also completed an advanced training certificate program from the Integrative and Functional Nutrition Academy where she is a faculty member and served as the culinary collaborative director for 3 years | /images/faculty/pickett-bernard-denise.jpg | Adjunct Faculty | ||||
| Donnie Akers, OD | Associate Dean of Academic Affairs | Donnie C. Akers, OD is the Assistant Dean for Academic Affairs for the Program. A graduate of Indiana School of Optometry, Dr. Akers brings over 20 years of combined experience in clinic, didactic, and administrative roles. Dr. Akers completed the Association of Schools and Colleges Summer Institute for Faculty Development Program (SIFD) and has gone on to hold leadership positions in optometry as Faculty Chair, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, and Interim Dean. He holds the rank of Associate Professor with experience in course directing of Gross Anatomy, Ocular Anatomy, and Ocular Physiology. He holds an award for the Most Innovative Use of Technology for Instructional Purposes for his innovative introduction of the first virtual 3-D interactive software for both Gross and Ocular Anatomy laboratories for optometry. He has done work on a local, state and national level for the promotion of interprofessional education including presentations at the American Academy of Optometry and serving on an ASCO special interprofessional education task force. | Doctor of Optometry | Faculty | ||||
| Ed LeCara, PhD, DC, ATC, CSCS, MBA | Master of Science in Health Science (MSHS) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. LeCara has worked as a strength and conditioning coach, athletic trainer, and chiropractor for over 20 years. Ed holds a PhD in Athletic Training with a research emphasis on lumbar instability and rehabilitation. He had this original research published in May 2014. Since 2000, he owned and operated SportsPlus in the San Francisco Bay Area where he helped endurance and high intensity athletes prevent and overcome injuries. Ed was the Vice President of Sports Science and Human Performance at 24 Hour Fitness Corporate offices in San Ramon, CA until March 2013. In addition, he held hospital privileges at the VA Northern California Health Care System in Martinez, CA from 2009 – 2013. Ed moved to Dallas, TX in July 2014 to develop The KinetikChain. The KinetikChain delivers performance therapy for high intensity and endurance athletes by treating the muscular, skeletal and neurological systems of the body to enable people to live an active lifestyle. | /images/faculty/lecara-ed.jpg | Master of Science in Health Science (MSHS) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| ElBea Stonier, MS, CCC-SLP | Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) | Faculty | ElBea Stonier is a speech-language pathologist who joined RMUoHP in June 2018 as a Clinical Educator in the M.S. SLP program. She earned her B.S. at Boise State University and her M.S. at Idaho State University. ElBea has clinical experience working with clients across the lifespan, with a focus on developing advanced clinical skills in treating infants and toddlers with communication, feeding and swallowing, and cognitive delays. | /images/faculty/stonier-elbea.jpg | Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) | Faculty | |||
| Ellen Hudgins, OTR/L | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Ellen Hudgins, OTR/L, will be serving as the APM Elective Track Director. Additionally, she is teaching the leadership course for OTD students. Dr. Hudgins has been an occupational therapist for the past 30 years. She attended undergraduate school at the Medical College of Virginia, graduating in 1987 and completed her OTD at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in 2014, completing the APM track at that time. Dr. Hudgins served as the Administration and Management Special Interest Chairperson for the American Occupational Therapy Association from 2014-2017. She worked as an adjunct professor at Longwood University in the 2016-2017 academic year, teaching a therapeutic modalities course and an administrative course to athletic training students. Additionally, Dr. Hudgins served as the TA for the OTD program for four semesters, assisting with the OTD 740 leadership course. She has been a fieldwork educator for OT’s, COTA’s, and athletic training students for the past 25 years. Dr. Hudgins is the president and owner of Progressive Therapy, opening her practice in 1993. She has three clinics in central Virginia, providing occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech therapy services. In her spare time, she trains and competes for dressage horses. Dr. Hudgins enjoys hiking, fishing and anything outdoors. She currently resides in Buckingham, Virginia with her husband, where they own and operate a sustainable beef cattle farm. Her two sons attend Virginia Tech. Dr. Hudgins is thrilled to join the Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions faculty and look forward to life-long learning with the students pursuing this program. She is proud to have attended this program and is excited to have the opportunity to give back to the university and the students. | /images/faculty/hudgins-ellen.jpg | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Elsha Drummond, DNP, APRN, FNP-C | College of Nursing | Faculty | Elsha Drummond completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice and is board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. Elsha graduated with her Bachelor of Science Nursing Degree in 2005 from Westminster College and her DNP in 2021. She worked as a Maternal Newborn, NICU, and Well-Baby Nursery nurse prior to pursuing her DNP. Elsha also worked as a clinical instructor for the Salt Lake City School District. Elsha is dedicated to managing chronic health conditions. She provides compassionate, culturally sensitive, and age-appropriate care. In her free time she enjoys traveling, reading, and watching her kids participate in their various activities. | College of Nursing | Faculty | ||||
| Eric Smart, MD | Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) | Faculty | Dr. Eric V. Smart is the Medical Director in the Physician Assistant Program. Dr. Smart is a board certified in Emergency Medicine and a Fellow of the American College of Emergency Physicians. Dr. Smart is also the Medical Director of the Sandy City Fire Department, a former medical staff president of Alta View Hospital, and a past President of Utah Emergency Physicians. Dr. Smart graduated from Utah State University and the University of Utah School of Medicine. | /images/faculty/smart-eric.jpg | Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) | Faculty | |||
| Erin Faraclas, PT, DPT, MSCS, NBC-HWC, PhD(c) | Master of Science in Health Science (MSHS) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Erin Faraclas received her undergraduate degree and Masters Degree in Physical Therapy at American International College in Massachusetts. She later attended Temple University and was awarded a Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2008. Erin obtained her Multiple Sclerosis Certified Specialist Certification (MSCS) in 2004. Since that time, Erin has spent her physical therapy career specializing in Multiple Sclerosis and other chronic neurological conditions. Erin spent over 12 years working at Utah Valley Hospital in the Neuro Trauma Rehabilitation Unit. More recently, Erin has blended her passion for helping those with a chronic condition with being a health and wellness coach. Erin is currently a Nationally Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach (NBC-HWC). In addition, Erin is an APTA Trainer for the Credentialed Clinical Instructor program and currently holds a leadership position on the APTA’s Population Health task force. Prior to moving to Massachusetts, Erin served on the Board of Health for Utah County, in Utah and was an APTA delegate for the state of Utah. Erin is a PhD candidate, with her concentration of study in Health Promotion and Wellness. Personally, Erin loves skiing, mountain biking, hiking, gardening, and spending time with her family. Erin lives with her husband and two young boys in Holden, Massachusetts. | /images/faculty/faraclas-erin.jpg | Master of Science in Health Science (MSHS) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Erin S. Ross, PhD, CCC-SLP | Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (tDPT) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Erin Ross received her Ph.D from the University of Colorado at Denver and Health Sciences Center in 2007, and her Master’s Degree in Speech and Language Pathology. She completed a two-year Post-Doctoral Fellowship in the Section of Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine at the University of Colorado Denver. Dr. Ross is currently a Clinical Instructor in the School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, at the University of Colorado Denver within the Center for Family and Infant Interaction. She also holds a faculty appointment at the Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions, and is a parent advisor for the Colorado Department of Education Special Education Advisory Committee. Dr. Ross’ research interests are focused on understanding feeding and growth in the medically fragile infant, and on identifying and treating feeding problems infants and children. She provides clinical consultation to several NICU’s in the Denver metropolitan area in addition to providing professional education and research consultation through her company, Feeding FUNdamentals. Dr. Ross consults at the STAR Center outpatient feeding clinic, and co-teaches the SOS Approach to Feeding course with Dr. Kay Toomey. Dr. Ross is the creator of the SOFFI Method, a training program for caregivers in the NICU. She brings over 21 years of experience in both NICU and outpatient settings, providing a perspective that crosses over the initial hospitalization through the first 5 years of life. | Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (tDPT) | Adjunct Faculty | ||||
| Evan Osar, CMT, PES, CSCS | Master of Science in Health Science (MSHS) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Evan Osar is an internationally recognized speaker, author, and expert on assessment, corrective exercise, and functional movement. He has authored several books on these topics including Corrective Exercise Solutions to Common Hip and Shoulder Dysfunction, Functional Anatomy of the Pilates Core , and Amazon #1 Best Seller, The Psoas Solution. Early in his career, Dr. Osar recognized that there weren’t many practical resources on assessment and corrective exercise available to the health and fitness professionals that worked with everyday individuals including baby boomers and seniors as well as those individuals experiencing chronic medical conditions such as degenerative joint issues (osteoarthritis and post-joint replacements), postural issues, chronic tightness, and/or discomfort. Additionally, he noted that there weren’t definable guidelines for individuals that were discharged from chiropractic and physical therapy yet were still experiencing ‘incomplete rehab syndrome’ – the inability to perform at the level the individual wants or needs or to return to the activities they love to do because of on-going functional deficits in strength, stability, and/or balance issues. He developed the Integrative Movement System™ to help him assess the underlying causes of his patient’s posture and movement issues and for using specific corrective exercises to address and progress the individual towards successfully achieving their health and fitness goals. With his wife Jenice Mattek, LMT, he created the Institute for Integrative Health and Fitness Education™ (IIHFE). IIHFE is dedicated to providing evidence-based and practical assessment and exercise resources for health and fitness professionals that specialize in working in the medical fitness space, with the older population, individuals leaving the health industry with ‘incomplete rehab syndrome’, and every day folks looking for safe and effective exercise programs. provides on-line and live education courses as well as two of the industry’s most advanced certification intensives - Integrative Corrective Exercise Instructor™ and Integrative Movement Specialist™. During these programs, participants learn functional anatomy, biomechanics, and motor control and how this information contributes to optimal posture and movement. More importantly, participants discover how to use this knowledge to choose the most appropriate assessments, corrective exercises, and functional exercise progressions to progress their clients towards achieving their goals Dr. Osar is co-founder of Chicago Integrative Movement Specialists™ where he maintains an active practice. | /images/faculty/osar-evan.jpg | Master of Science in Health Science (MSHS) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| F. David Paulson, DPT, OCS | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Director of Accreditation and Assessment | Dr. F. David Paulson is married to Kimberlie (Toone) Paulson, is the proud father of four children and grandfather of seven. He has served full-time as an Assistant Professor with Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions since May of 2018. Prior to that time, he worked for 8 years as an adjunct instructor in the DPT program at RMU. He continues to treat patients two mornings each week at American Fork Hospital, in the Outpatient Physical Therapy Clinic. Prior to coming to RMU full-time, he served as a PT at Orem Community Hospital, a manager and clinician at Utah Valley Regional Medical Center in Provo, Utah and has also managed physical therapy throughout the Intermountain Healthcare Urban South Region. He has over 30 years of clinical Orthopedic Manual Therapy experience with specialization in the spine, extremities, TMJ, and headache. Dr. Paulson has been the lead instructor for clinical education courses in such areas as therapeutic exercise, posture correction, pain management for the neck, head and TMJ, and managing low back pain; he is also an instructor for Graston Technique. He became board certified in Orthopedic Physical Therapy in 1997 and re-certified in 2007 and 2017. Paulson developed and taught a residency program in Orthopedic Physical Therapy and is the owner of Northstar Physical Therapy – a physical therapy education and products company. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from Brigham Young University in 1988, received a Master of Physical Therapy degree from the US Army-Baylor University program in 1990, and completed his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 2008 from Baylor University. Dr. Paulson served as an Active Duty Army Physical Therapist for over 6 years and Retired from the US Army Reserve in June 2018 after a combined 30 years of service in the US Army. He retired with the the rank of Colonel. His final 3 assignments with the Army Reserve included Chief of Clinical Services for a Medical Training Support Battalion, Chief of Operations and Training for the 328th Combat Support Hospital and as the Reserve Component Chief of the Army Medical Specialist Corps. Dr. Paulson has also taught for several years as an adjunct faculty member in the Department of Exercise Sciences at Brigham Young University. | /images/faculty/paulson-david.jpg | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Director of Accreditation and Assessment | |||
| Frances Medaglia, PhD, APRN, ANP-BC | College of Nursing | Adjunct Faculty | Frances Medaglia has over 40 years of experience in the field of health care delivery. A certified adult nurse practitioner, Dr. Medaglia holds a PhD in Health Policy from the Heller School at Brandeis University, a Master’s degree in Gerontological Nursing from the University of Massachusetts at Lowell and a BSN from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. She has worked most of her career in the public health arena first delivering primary care services to older adults and then as Public Health Nurse Advisor within the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH). Her more than 30 year tenure with the state health department included introducing the role of the nurse practitioner to the state’s largest public health hospital, coordinating the statewide asthma surveillance program for the CDC’s Environmental Public Health Tracking initiative and as the Assistant Director for Policy & Research with the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing. Dr. Medaglia served for 12 years as a member of the MDPH Institutional Review Board/ Health Utilization Review Committee. Here at RMU she teaches DNP 650 Epidemiology and Population Health, DNP 660 and NUR 710 Quality Improvement in Healthcare. Dr. Medaglia is a member of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, the Massachusetts Coalition of Nurse Practitioners and Sigma Theta Tau, the International Honor Society of Nurses. She serves on the Boards at Youville House/Youville Place, and the Boston Museum of Science Volunteer Service League. Dr. Medaglia is an active member of the Burlington (Massachusetts) Medical Reserve Corp (MRC). | /images/faculty/medaglia-frances.jpg | College of Nursing | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Graham Danyleyko, DMSc, MPAS | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Graham Danyleyko is a practicing Physician Assistant, clinical leader, and Adjunct faculty of the Doctor of Medical Science program. His academic history began as a graduate of the University of California Irvine with a BS degree in Biology, and from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine earning a BS and Master of PA Studies degree in Family Medicine. In April of 2021, he completed his Doctor of Medical Science Degree with a Healthcare Professions Education focus. Dr. Danyleyko has over 35 years of unique experience in healthcare as a rural Emergency Medical Technician, a Navy Hospital Corpsman (FMF)/Surgical Technician, and a Physician Assistant. Graham proudly served for 25+ years in the US Navy stationed in the US and overseas in Japan and Guam. He participated in Operations Desert Storm/Shield, OIF/OEF, and the NATO Role 3 in Afghanistan. As a PA, he has 21 years of clinical experience primarily in Family Medicine with experiences in ER, trauma, and urgent care. His love of medicine starts with caring for families and educating his peers and patients daily. He currently serves as a lead provider developing training and mentoring PAs and NPs. In PA education Dr. Danyleyko assisted with the development of a successful PA program as the academic coordinator. His teaching experience covers over 20 years with hundreds of hours teaching basic to advanced medicine and clinical techniques to all levels of healthcare providers. In his spare time, he enjoys volunteering, spending time in the outdoors, mountain biking or fishing, and traveling with his wife and 2 sons. | /images/faculty/danyleyko-graham.jpg | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Heather David, PT, EdD, MPT, NCS | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. David received a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Florida State University in 2001, a Master of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Florida in 2003, and a Doctorate of Education degree from the University of St. Augustine in December 2015. She is an assistant professor with the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences in San Marcos, California. Her clinical emphasis is working with patients affected by neurological, balance, and vestibular disorders. Dr. David is currently working with adults with neurologic diagnoses at the Challenge Center in La Mesa, California and children with clubfoot through the non-profit organization, Clubfoot C.A.R.E.S. She has worked in a variety of clinical settings including, acute care, inpatient rehabilitation, outpatient neurologic, outpatient orthopedic, and brain injury day treatment. She completed competency based training in vestibular rehabilitation and is certified in the Neuro-IFRAH approach to treating adults with hemiparesis. She is a Board Certified Neurologic Clinical Specialist for the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties. | /images/faculty/nophoto.jpg | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Hina Garg, PT, PhD | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Research Faculty | Hina Garg completed her Bachelor of Physical Therapy in 2008 from G.G.S. Indraprastha University, India. She pursued her M.S. in Kinesiology (2010) from the Texas A & M University and completed her PhD in Rehabilitation Science (2015) from the University of Utah. She is a licensed physical therapist and passionately works with individuals with chronic neurological conditions. In the past, she has worked as the Multiple Sclerosis Exercise Program Clinical and Research Coordinator for 5 yrs at the University of Utah and has specialized in rehabilitation practices for individuals with Multiple Sclerosis. She has served as an instructor for undergraduate, physical therapy and neuro-residency courses in the past and is currently an assistant professor in the DPT program at the Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. Her present teaching involvements include: gross anatomy, neuromuscular management and research courses. Her research interests include factors affecting postural control and fall-risk in people with MS and other chronic neurodegenerative conditions. Factors such as, the vestibular contributions, spasticity, and cognitive-motor interference are of particular interest. In addition, her present research activities include curricular integration of evidence-based practice and cultural competency in physical therapy education. Personally, she enjoys outdoor activities, cooking and exploring new cities. Hina received first prize for her poster presentation in clinical research category at the 2017 Annual Roseman University research symposium. Title: Adaptations in gaze and postural stability in people with Multiple Sclerosis. | /images/faculty/garg-hina.jpg | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Research Faculty | |||
| Holly Todd, M.Ed | Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MHC) | Adjunct Faculty | Holly Todd has worked in the public education system for over 20 years. She has been a classroom teacher, intervention specialist, school counselor, crisis response counselor, and school based mental health specialist in the public K-12 system. Throughout her career, she has worked in rural and urban school districts, the Utah State Board of Education and currently works with a regional educational service agency. She has presented at many local, state and national conferences on topics of school counseling, social-emotional learning and educator self-care. Holly has been active in advocating for school counselors, as well as other school based mental health providers, at local and state levels. | /images/faculty/todd-holly.jpg | Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MHC) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Jan Reese, MS-ITLS | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Faculty | Jan Reese is the Director of Instructional Technology for Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMUoHP), Provo, Utah. As such, she consults with faculty to coordinate innovation in online learning and instructional design based on adult learning pedagogy and instructional design practices while promoting the effective use of technology in teaching and learning. She develops and delivers a multi-faceted training program to RMUoHP faculty, students, and administrators to promote the effective use of educational technology, including the use of the LMS. Additionally, she teaches courses in utilizing technology in higher education. Ms. Reese received a BA in Professional Dance from BYU, and an MS in Instructional Technology and Learning Sciences from Utah State University. She is originally from Redondo Beach, California. Prior to her work with RMUoHP, she served as the Director of Dance at the Chadwick School in Palos Verdes, CA. Her work included the creation of an original WASC accredited dance program, writing a UC “A-G” Arts Certified Curriculum, and teaching over 300 students annually. Other affiliations have included serving as a technical director, manager, development consultant, and teacher for city, community, and professional organizations, including Big Brothers & Big Sisters of Anaheim, Arts Unlimited, South Bay Cities, Fred Astaire Studios, the Walt Disney Company, and BYU. Currently affiliations include volunteering at Courage Reins, an equine-assisted therapy center, and the Food and Care Coalition. | /images/faculty/reese-jan.jpg | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Faculty | |||
| Jane E. Sullivan, DHS, MS | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Adjunct Faculty | Jane E. Sullivan, PT, DHS, MS is a Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences, Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, where she teaches in the neurologic area of the DPT curriculum. Her research is in rehabilitation interventions and outcome measurement for adults with neurologic diagnoses. Jane serves on the Board of Directors of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy as the Director of Education. She has developed online education modules hosted on the APTA Learning Center and on the ANPT Synapse Education Center. Jane teaches online/blended courses at Northwestern University, as well as several other universities/organizations. Jane lives in suburban Chicago with her husband, a Clinical Psychologist. They have two adult children; a son who is a US Army veteran and lives in Montana, and a daughter with a background in behavioral healthcare who lives in Milwaukee. Jane and her husband are rabid music fans, having traveled all over the globe to see Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band! | /images/faculty/sullivan-jane.jpg | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Jane K. Sweeney, PhD, PCS, FAPTA | Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (tDPT) | Concentration Track Director | Jane K. Sweeney PT, MS, PhD, PCS, FAPTA, founded the Pediatric Science DSc program in 2000, Pediatric Science PhD program in 2011 and pediatric science tracks in 2006 for two post-professional programs: transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (tDPT) and Doctor of Occupational Therapy. She continues to serve as director of the Pediatrics tDPT program and PhD Pediatric Science track. Dr. Sweeney developed the first Physical Therapy Fellowship in Neonatology accredited in the United States by the American Board of Physical Therapy Residency and Fellowship and Education in 2012. She directs the Fellowship in partnership with Seattle Children’s and Cincinnati Children’s Hospitals. With the assistance of Jan McElroy PT, PhD, PCS, she co-directs the Pediatrics Institute, an annual summer continuing education series at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions for pediatric clinicians. Dr. Sweeney’s educational degrees include BA from the University of the Pacific, MS from Colorado State University, and PhD from the University of Washington. The emphasis of her doctoral study was the high-risk infant and family; her doctoral research focused on physiological and behavioral tolerance of neurological assessment procedures in preterm and full-term neonates. She is a Mary Switzer Distinguished Research Fellow of the National Institute for Disability and Rehabilitation Research and a Catherine Worthingham Fellow of the American Physical Therapy Association. Her 88 publications include 35 journal articles, 15 chapters, 33 peer-reviewed abstracts, 2 invited commentaries, and 1 book. After receiving physical therapy education in the US Army Medical Department, Dr. Sweeney worked primarily in pediatric and neurologic rehab positions. Before retiring at the rank of Colonel, she held a six-year position as Chief of Clinical Investigation and Research for the Army Medical Specialist Corps and a 12-year position as Pediatric Physical Therapy Consultant to the Office of the Army Surgeon General. Dr. Sweeney was in the first group of 4 in the United States to become board certified in pediatric physical therapy in 1986. She then served as Chair of the Pediatric Specialty Council and as chair of the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties. She led a task force on Neonatal ICU Practice Guidelines for the APTA Section on Pediatrics and served as an editorial board member of Infants and Young Children, Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology, and Pediatric Physical Therapy journals. Dr. Sweeney received the APTA’s Lucy Blair Service Award and Section on Pediatrics’ Fischer Distinguished Mentorship Award, DeHaven Distinguished Service Award, and Doctoral Dissertation Award. She is a recipient of the Richmond Award (Research) from the Academy for Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine and the Hartgraves Award for Excellence in Teaching at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. She was founder of the Neonatology Special Interest Group of the APTA Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy and is currently co-chairing a Task Force for developing a national certification program and examination for Neonatal Physical Therapists. | /images/faculty/sweeney-jane.jpg | Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (tDPT) | Concentration Track Director | |||
| Janet Noles, PhD, APRN, FNP-BC, FAANP | College of Nursing | Program Director | Dr. Janet Noles received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Texas in Austin and worked as a registered nurse in intensive and cardiac care units for 10 years. She then earned her Master of Science degree in Nursing at Texas Woman’s University in Dallas. The opportunity to advance skills led to her completion of the Family Nurse Practitioner certificate program at Texas Tech University Health Science Center in Lubbock. Dr. Noles leadership skills led her to numerous positions, and upon completion of her Doctor of Philosophy degree at University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio, she was selected as Dean of the only nursing school in the country that was owned and operated by three private church owned universities. As Dean, she was selected for the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Leadership Academy. Dr. Noles has presented scholarly works at local, regional, state, national and international venues and directed the International Nursing Symposium in Limuru, Kenya for missionary nurses throughout the world. She has served as a Team Leader for accreditation site visits for the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education for 15 years and is currently serving on the Substantive Change Review Committee for the Commission. Dr. Noles has been active in the Texas Nurse Practitioners as a regional representative and Board Member. She most recently served as President of the Texas Nurse Practitioner Foundation Board leading efforts to provide scholarship funds for nurse practitioner students in Texas. Dr. Noles was selected as a Fellow in the American Association of Nurse Practitioners in 2008. Dr. Noles has 27 years experience as a family nurse practitioner in ambulatory care, family planning, pain management, gastroenterology and rural health with 40 years experience as a nurse educator and administrator. | College of Nursing | Program Director | ||||
| Jason King, PhD | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. King is Core Faculty at Walden University’s School of Counseling. He is a state-licensed and nationally certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a Diplomate and Clinical Mental Health Specialist in Substance Abuse and Co-Occurring Disorders Counseling. In 2012 he received the AMHCA Mental Health Counselor of the Year Award. Dr. King served as a Behavioral Health Clinical Panel Member for Stanford University's Health Policy Center for Primary Care and Outcomes Research. In this role, he assisted in the investigation of community-level quality indicators related to suicidal ideation, serious mental illness, substance use, depression, anxiety, adjustment, and psychotic disorders; and intimate partner violence and abuse. Dr. King clinically directed an outpatient mental health and substance abuse treatment clinic (Life Enhancement Center) that collected data for the American Psychiatric Association’s Routine Clinical Practice field trials that informed the DSM-5 revision process (page 914 lists him as a Collaborating Investigator). | /images/faculty/king-jason.jpg | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Jason Brumitt, PT, PhD, ATC, CSCS | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Brumitt is a physical therapist and an athletic trainer from the Portland, OR region. His primary academic position is as an associate professor of physical therapy at George Fox University (Newberg, OR). For RMUoHP he teaches Epidemiologic Methods in the Doctor of Philosophy program. His primary areas of research include injury epidemiology in collegiate athletes, blood flow restriction, and electromyography. | /images/faculty/brummitt-jason.jpg | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Jason Edsall, PhD, ATC, CSCS | Master of Science in Health Science (MSHS) | Adjunct Faculty | Jason Edsall is the Program Director of Athletic Training and Exercise Science at Chatham University in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania. Prior to his current position he has worked at various levels ranging from special populations to Olympic athletes in group and individualized formats clinically, as a certified athletic trainer and strength and conditioning coach. Jason earned his Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training from Slippery Rock University, Master of Education in Post Secondary Education from Salisbury University and a Doctorate of Philosophy in Athletic Training from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. He also holds various credentials including the National Strength and Conditioning Association, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist. | /images/faculty/edsall-jason.jpg | Master of Science in Health Science (MSHS) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Jason Nupdal, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC | College of Nursing | Faculty | Dr. Jason Nupdal is a Family Nurse Practitioner with 20+ years of clinical practice in family medicine with an emphasis on psych mental health. He currently practices as a Family Practice Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatry serving children, adolescents, family, adults and geriatrics in rural Minnesota at Sanford Behavioral Health in Thief River Falls, MN. Nupdal received his MS with a specialty as a Family Nurse Practitioner through the University of North Dakota in 1997. Completed a post Master’s Certification as a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Psych-Mental Health at UND in 2006, and his Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) through the North Dakota State University in 2014. He is currently employed through Sanford Behavioral Health full time working in both the ambulatory care out-pt clinic as well as the in-patient hospital setting. | College of Nursing | Faculty | ||||
| Jeff Lau, PT, DPT, PhD, CMPT | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Dean | Jeff Lau graduated with an Associate of Science degree from Utah Valley State College in 1994, a bachelor's degree in biology/zoology from Southern Utah University with a minor in Athletic Training in 1996, and a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from Creighton University in 1999. He completed a PhD in Orthopedic and Sports Science in December of 2017 at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions and recently completed an Administrative/leadership Fellowship. He worked as a physical therapist in Washington State in outpatient orthopedics, industrial rehabilitation, acute care, rehab, and in skilled nursing facilities. His clinical practice in Utah has consisted primarily of pro bono patients with orthopedic conditions. He became certified in manual therapy (CMPT) through the North American Institute of Manual Therapy (NAIOMT) in 2005 and Board Certified in orthopedics (OCS) in 2006. In 2006, he began teaching in the Physical Therapist Assistant program at Provo College as the Academic Coordinator for Clinical Education and subsequently became the Director of that program. In 2009, he joined Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions as a founding core faculty and Director of Clinical Education for the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program and served for several years as the Director of Program Accreditation and Assessment. Dr. Lau is currently the Dean of the College of Rehabilitation Sciences, serves as the Accreditation Liaison Officer (ALO) to the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) for University accreditation, and still teaches evidence-based practice in the DPT program. His research interests are related to orthopedics, manual therapy, teaching and learning, and evidence-based practice, and he has presented at local, state, and national conferences. Jeff has been an item writer for the National Physical Therapist Exam (NPTE), a PTA program reviewer for the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) and has served on several national advisory committees. Jeff has been a member of the APTA since 1999 and has been active for over ten years in the Utah Chapter of the American Physical Therapy Association in various activities, most recently completing six years on the board directors as Chief Delegate, and continues as a part of the bylaw committee. Jeff has been married to his lovely wife Peggy since 1993, has five children and four grandchildren. He loves to spend time serving others, hiking, skiing, rock climbing, and mountain biking; developing youth in scouting; and reading. | /images/faculty/lau-jeff.jpg | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Dean | |||
| Jennifer Austin, PhD-HLA, PhD-HPE, LAT, ATC, GTS | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Concentration Track Director | Dr. Austin is currently the Program Director of the Ph.D. in Health Sciences program and an Associate Professor at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in Provo, Utah. She received her PhD from Ohio University in Higher Education, and a master’s in physical education with a specialization in Athletic Training. Dr. Austin serves as a reviewer for the Journal of Sports Rehabilitation and the Athletic Training Education Journal. She has chaired numerous professional accreditation committees, serves as a CAATE site visitor, and was recently a member of the Association for Athletic Training Educational Pathways and Recruitment workgroup. In addition to being a certified athletic trainer, Dr. Austin holds the following certifications: in “Myofascial Cupping Practitioner,” “Selective Functional Movement Assessment,” “Graston Technique Therapist Specialist and Provider,” and “Sport Safety International - Sport Safety Specialist.” Her research interest includes program and learning outcomes and assessment, incorporating evidence-based practice into athletic training education, and the use of therapeutic interventions, particularly cupping therapy and instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization. | /images/faculty/austin-jennifer.png | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Concentration Track Director | Program Director MSATP | ||
| Jennifer M Medina McKeon, PhD, ATC, CSCS | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Adjunct Faculty | Education: Bachelor of Science Pennsylvania State University (1995-2000) Master of Science Arizona School of Health Sciences (2000-2002) Doctoral of Philosophy Pennsylvania State University (2004-2006) Post-doctoral Fellowship University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (2006-2007) Jennifer M. Medina McKeon, PhD, ATC, CSCS is an assistant professor within the School of Health Sciences and Human Performance at Ithaca College in NY. She teaches Kinesiology (EXSS 22000) and Clinical Pathoanatomy (EXSS 40700). For Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions, Dr. McKeon teach Evidence-Based Practice (HS 710) for the DSc students. Her academic and research interests include functional anatomy and pathoanatomy, biomechanics, sports injury epidemiology and time-to-event analysis, evidence-based practice, and clinical analysis of risk factors associated with lower extremity injury. She has received funding from the National Institutes of Health and has presented her research at the local, national, and international levels. “As an athletic training researcher, I believe it is critically important to bridge the gap between the clinician and the laboratory. Within sports medicine research, there is a paucity of evidence that can be directly translated to clinical practice. My professional research goal is to generate clinically useful, valid tools for improving patient care. Specifically, I have focused on 1) using an epidemiological approach to describe injury trends and generate prognostic indicators for return-to-play; 2) providing evidence-based answers to clinical questions through systematic review of the literature; and 3) field-testing techniques for assessing biomechanical risk factors and injury surveillance. I live in Ithaca NY, which is about 1.5 hours from Syracuse. More than anything, I enjoy being with my family – mostly that involves my husband, Patrick, my son, Bobby (age 7), & my daughter, Mallory (age 3.5). We love to hike, play guitars, ride bikes, and go to Key West! Also, now that we have moved back closer to “home” (my parents also live in upstate NY& we have family throughout NY, NJ, and the rest of the northeast), we get the chance to be involved in lives of the rest of our family – something we hadn’t really been able to do regularly in about 15 years.” | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Adjunct Faculty | ||||
| Joanna C. Beachy, MD, PhD | Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (tDPT) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Beachy received her PhD in Biochemistry for the University of Minnesota. After 2 postdoctoral research positions in Immunology and Physiological Chemistry, she when to medical school initially at Brown and then George Washington University Medical School. She completed her residency and neonatal fellowship at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. She has worked at Madigan Army Medical Center in Tacoma, WA, where she was the director of the NICU, at Oakwood Hospital in Dearborn, MI, where she was the director of the NICU follow-up clinic in addition to working in the NICU, at University of Utah/Primary Children’s Medical Center/Intermountain Medical Center in Salt Lake City, UT, where she was the associate medical director of the University NICU, and at Cohen Children’s Medical Center where she was the medical director of the level 4 NICU. Currently, she is the Chief, Newborn Medicine at Baystate Children’s at Springfield, MA since 2020. She is actively involved in ethics and developmental care committees at the hospitals where she has worked. She is NIDCAP certified. Her major research interests include 1) evaluating ventricular size and brain electrical activity in infants with intraventricular hemorrhage and post-hemorrhagic ventricular dilatation, 2) identifying predictive factors of death and/or poor neurodevelopmental outcome in infants with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy treated with hypothermia, 3) decreasing the incidence of retinopathy of prematurity and improving tolerance of the ophthalmologic examinations, and 4) impact of Sars-2-CoV infection on mother-fetal dyads. She has been and is actively involved in many funded and unfunded research studies. | Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (tDPT) | Adjunct Faculty | ||||
| Joel Tenbrink, PhD, ATC | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Assistant Program Director | Dr. Tenbrink attended Brigham Young University for his undergraduate degree in Athletic Training. He went on to Physical Therapy school at the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine in Rochester, MN. While there, he practiced as an Athletic Trainer at Henry Sibley High School as well as the Mayo Clinic Sports Medicine Center. Following Graduation, he took his first job in northwest Washington working in various practice settings including acute care, skilled nursing and inpatient rehabilitation, becoming the Center Coordinator of Clinic Education for Northwest Physical Therapy, working with PT and PTA Assistant students. He later accepted a position as clinic director at Ironwood Drive Physical Therapy in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. While pursuing his PhD at the University of Idaho, he worked as the Academic Coordinator of Clinical Education for the Athletic Training program. Joel became the Program Director of a developing consortium program of 4 colleges throughout Idaho providing a PTA program across most of the state. After completing his PhD, he joined the faculty of RMUoHP in January 2013 as Director of Clinical Education. He later accepted the position of Assistant Program Director. Dr. Tenbrink is active in the IPPE committee, admissions and recruiting, and coordinating the adjunct faculty within the DPT program. He teaches the professionalism course and in the musculoskeletal course series. | /images/faculty/tenbrink-joel.jpg | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Assistant Program Director | |||
| Jonathan Baird, DMSc, PA-C, ATC | Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) | Faculty | As a clinician, I am a Physician Assistant (PA-C) and Athletic Trainer (ATC), with experience in family and sports medicine. As an educator, I specialize in medical teaching and learning with an emphasis on primary care medicine across the lifespan. As a professional, I am a delegate to the American Academy of Physician Assistants and a former president of the Utah Academy of Physician Assistants with extensive experience in legislative and professional advocacy at both the state and federal levels. I joined the faculty of the physician assistant program at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMUoHP) in 2015. I am one of the founding faculty members of the program. I am passionate about primary care/family practice medicine, sports medicine & non-operative orthopedics, exercise science, diabetes management, and medical wellness and weight loss. My academic background and experience include: A Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) with an emphasis in Health Professions Education (RMUoHP August 2020), a Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) from Rocky Mountain College (August 2010), a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Athletic Training from Brigham Young University (June 2003), board certification as both a PA-C and an ATC, and 20+ years of professional healthcare experience. | /images/faculty/baird-jon.jpg | Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) | Faculty | |||
| Jonathan Wright, PT, DPT, CSRS | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Faculty | Dr. Jonathan Wright received his Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science from Brigham Young University in 2006 and his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas in 2010. He worked as a Lead Inpatient Physical Therapist at Kadlec Regional Medical Center in Richland, WA from 2010 to 2018. During that time he treated patients in the acute care, intensive care, and inpatient rehab settings with a wide variety of diagnoses. These included individuals with orthopedic, cardiopulmonary, and neurological pathologies. In 2014 Dr. Wright became a Certified Stroke Rehab Specialist through the National Stroke Association. From 2012 to 2018 he served as the Center Coordinator of Clinical Education for the Physical Therapy Department at Kadlec, overseeing physical therapist interns and their clinical instructors in the outpatient, acute care, and inpatient rehab settings. Additionally, Dr. Wright enjoyed mentoring students as a clinical instructor. He became an APTA Credentialed Clinical Instructor in 2011 and an Advanced Credentialed Clinical Instructor in 2016. In the summer of 2018, he joined the faculty at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. He assists with the clinical education component of the program and assists with labs in the Neuromuscular Physical Therapy 2 course. His research interests include fall risk and prevention, hospital readmissions, VP shunt candidacy, and plantarflexion activation following stroke. Away from work, he enjoys coaching, hiking, going on dates with his wife, and wrestling with his 5 children. | /images/faculty/wright-jonathan.jpg | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Faculty | |||
| Juanita Allen, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC | College of Nursing | Faculty | I received all three of my degrees from the University of Utah. I am a family nurse practitioner and practice in an underserved clinic. I have worked in a variety of settings including a startup for an urgent care, research, family practice and my own business in rural Utah. I have three children, my oldest is a neonatologist in Houston, my second loves math and has her master’s degree in business and lives in rural Utah and my youngest works in heating and air conditioning and is the business manager, he lives in Salt Lake City. I have two springer spaniels, Maggie, and Stella. I have six wonderful grandchildren, one granddaughter and five grandsons. They are the best! Besides nursing, I like to swim, bike, ski (mostly cross country these days), hike, and my passion is gardening. It is a great stress reliever. Please feel free to reach out to me whenever you have a question by email. | College of Nursing | Faculty | ||||
| Kaiwi Chung-Hoon, PhD | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Director of Research | Kaiwi Chung-Hoon is a Professor and Director of Research in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education-Sportsmedicine from Brigham Young University, a Master of Science degree in Physical Therapy from the University of the Pacific, and a PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences from the University of Utah. He continues to practice as a physical therapist, and has worked in a variety of clinical settings including outpatient orthopedics, private practice, acute care, home health and various administrative positions. He was a faculty member and program director for a PTA program at Provo College. Prior to this, he was a clinical instructor and clinical faculty member in the physical therapy program at the University of the Pacific. He currently serves his profession as a member of the Abstract Review Committee for the Section on Research for the American Physical Therapy Association. Prior to this appointment, he served as the Vice President for the Utah Physical Therapy Association and member of the Executive Board. He also served as the Treasurer and executive committee member for the Northeast District of the California Physical Therapy Association. His research interests include the control of lower extremity muscle contractions in young and old adults, aging of the neuromuscular system, improving neuromuscular function, and mobility function in young and old adults. | /images/faculty/chung-hoon-kaiwi.jpg | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Director of Research | |||
| Kathryn B. Schwartzkopf-Phifer, DPT, OCS, CSCS | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Faculty | Dr. Schwartzkopf-Phifer is an assistant professor In the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at the University of Evansville. She teaches within the research, cardiopulmonary and musculoskeletal areas of the program. She received her Bachelor and Master of Physical Therapy degrees from the University of Evansville and her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Regis University. She completed an orthopedic residency through Evidence in Motion and is a board-certified clinical specialist in orthopedics through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties. She is received her PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences from the University of Kentucky, with a specialization in motor control. Her research interests are in injury prediction and prevention, and performance in athletes. Dr. Schwartzkopf-Phifer remains actively engaged in patient care at Rehabilitation & Performance Institute, PSC (RPI) in Owensboro, KY, where she also serves as a faculty member in the RPI and University of Evansville Orthopedic Residency Program. | /images/faculty/nophoto.jpg | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Faculty | |||
| Kelly Conway, DNP, CNS | College of Nursing | Faculty | Dr. Kelly Conway, DNP, CNS received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing and Public Health Certificate at the University of San Francisco, Master’s degree in Adult Mental Health from the University of California, San Francisco, and Doctoral degree at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. She joined the faculty of RMU in the DNP/FNP program in May 2016. She has taught in the DNP/FNP and PMHNPC programs and has served as an associate professor and assistant director of the nursing department since 2018. She was instrumental in design and implementation of new programs offered by the University including the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program and Emergency Nurse Practitioner (ENP). She completed a RMU administrative Fellowship focusing on accreditation. She co-led a successful CCNE accreditation review. She was accepted and completed a competitive year-long fellowship and is an AACN Fellow in Executive Leadership in Academic Nursing (ELAN). In September 2021, Dr. Conway was appointed as Dean, College of Nursing and most recently launched a curriculum redesign. Professional experience as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) focused on inpatient and outpatient adult mental health settings including case management of the serious mentally ill population, and psychiatric home health care. She has served as program director in the mental health clinic. She has extensive expertise in individual, group, and family therapy. She has worked in mental health settings, homeless programs. For over 10 years, she managed as the Facility Outreach Coordinator/Rural Health Coordinator at the VA in Palo Alto, California increasing access to care through mobile clinic outreach. Her last appointment was a detail to the National Homeless Program Office (HPO) with the Homeless Patient Aligned Care Teams (HPACT). In this capacity she assisted in policy development and support to field staff nationwide. Dr. Conway has also taught undergraduate case management. She serves on many community governing boards for housing, mental health, and medical advocacy. She is actively sought as a consultant for mental health, outreach, and homeless issues. She has extensive experience in population health and public social determinants of health. Dr. Conway’s scholarly focus is mental health, interprofessional collaboration, evidence- based practice, and increasing access to medical and mental health care for the homeless population. | /images/faculty/conway-kelly3.jpg | College of Nursing | Faculty | |||
| Kelly Robinson, C.Sc.D., CCC-SLP | Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD) | Assistant Capstone Coordinator | Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD) | Assistant Capstone Coordinator | |||||
| Kelly Simmons, DNP, RN | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Simmons is the Concentration Program Director for the PhD Healthcare Leadership Administration and Healthcare Professions Education at Rocky Mountain University. She is also an Education Consultant with ATI Nursing Education. She served as the Academic Dean/Chief Academic Officer at the Christ College of Nursing and Health Sciences in Cincinnati, Ohio. She earned her DNP degree from Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama, her MSN degree from Northern Kentucky University, and her BSN degree from the University of Kentucky. Dr. Simmons has developed, taught, and directed both graduate and undergraduate nursing programs. Her areas of clinical expertise include critical care and post-anesthesia recovery. Dr. Simmons is a graduate of Leadership Northern Kentucky (2012), a member of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, and the Chair of the Rosedale Green Board of Directors, Covington, KY. Areas of professional interest include nursing administration and program/curriculum development. | /images/faculty/simmons-kelly.jpg | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Kelly Wollman, PhD, MS | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Wollman is a medical psychologist specializing in online graduate education in health promotion and wellness and preventive medicine with an educational focus on improving and protecting the health of the public at large. Dr. Wollman’s academic interests range from translational research focusing on the interface between the basic sciences and clinical medicine, to classes that present students with current information on how to affect real change across communities, the nation, and at the global level. She is currently involved in a series of Congressional Briefings for the National Prevention Science Coalition to Improve Lives (NPSC). The NPSC was formed to apply evidenced-based findings in public health toward wide-scale implementation of effective prevention practices and health policy. These activities have provided Dr. Wollman with a wealth of knowledge concerning the overall operation of the U.S. Health Care System that she is privileged to share with her students. Dr. Wollman received her BA from George Washington University, MS from Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, and PhD from Northcentral University. Uniformed Services University in Bethesda, MD is the nation's federal health sciences university and is committed to excellence in military medicine and public health during peace and war. In addition to educating doctors for the uniformed services, the university also grants degrees to civilians in the basic medical sciences. Dr. Wollman was fortunate to attend the medical school while working towards her master’s degree in medical psychology. | /images/faculty/wollman-kelly.jpg | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Kelsey Kushlan, PT, DPT | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Assistant Professor | Dr. Kelsey Hopkinson Kushlan grew up surrounded by mountains in Salt Lake City, Utah. She graduated from Utah State University in Logan, Utah with a BS in Human Movement Science (2014) and earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. She initially worked as a travel physical therapist in Boston, Massachusetts and explored New England before returning to Salt Lake City to practice in skilled nursing rehabilitation. The best part of her job is helping patients transition safely back home after a hospital stay through maximizing health and quality of life in geriatric patients. Her passion for teaching was sparked while directing an education program for senior citizens of Cache Valley for two years and through assistant teaching for a medical and environmental ethics course while at USU. She began working as an adjunct faculty member of RMUoHP in January 2020 before transitioning to a part-time faculty member later that year to assist physical therapy students in critically analyzing situations and making ethical decisions. She is an active volunteer through the Utah Arts Festival to support local artisans and Primary Children’s Festival of Trees to raise money to cover healthcare costs for all children regardless of their financial situation. She loves traveling, photography, and hiking and lives with her husband (Mike) and their two poodles (Hope and Coco) in Draper, Utah. | /wp-content/uploads/2021/01/kushlan-kelsey-683x1024.jpg | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Assistant Professor | |||
| Kerry L. Whitaker, DHSc, PA-C, DFAAPA | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Kerry Whitaker is a medical practitioner with more than 22 years experience in the areas of clinical medicine, medical education and leadership. He is an experienced University Physician Assistant Program Department Chair and Program Director with a demonstrated history of working in the medical education industry leading a PA program to a top performer. He has significant experience in establishing, fostering, and maintaining community and university stakeholder collaborations and partnerships at the local, state, and national levels. He is skilled in Clinical Research, Nonprofit Organizations, Customer Service, Medical Education, Strategic Planning, and Patient/Clinical/Student Education, among others. Dr. Whitaker graduated Cum Laude with a degree in Physician Assistant studies from Kettering College of Medical Arts in 1997. He went on to earn a Master of Science degree in Clinical Leadership with a concentration in Practice Management and Research from The George Washington University in 2004 and was conferred a Doctorate in Health Science degree from Nova Southeastern University in 2014. Dr. Whitaker became a Distinguished Fellow of the American Academy of Physician Assistants in 2015. He has also earned honors with the Alpha Eta, National Honor Society, Inducted NSU Alumni Member, August 2015 and the Pi Alpha, National Honor Society, Inducted Faculty Member, August 2015. In his spare time, Dr. Whitaker enjoys outdoor activities and spending time with his family. | /images/faculty/whitaker-kerry.jpg | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Kevin Ballard, DNP, APRN, FNP, FAANP | College of Nursing | Faculty | Dr. Kevin Ballard is a Family Nurse Practitioner with 20 years of clinical experience in Family Medicine, Neurology/NeuroSurgery, Orthopedics and Sports and Occupational Medicine. He currently practices Orthopedics; Sports and Occupational Medicine at Sanford Clinic in Thief River Falls, MN. Dr. Ballard earned his Post Masters FNP certificate at Arizona State University in 1995. He completed his Doctor of Nursing Practice at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in 2012. Dr. Ballard has been active in the American Association of Nurse Practitioners as Minnesota State Representative and currently serves on the Board of Directors as Region 5 Director. He is the BoD liaison to the Political Action Committee. Dr. Ballard is also active in MN-NP, MNAPRN Coalition and a member of Sigma Theta Tau (Beta Rho Chapter). He was selected for Induction as a Fellow of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners in 2014. | /images/faculty/ballard-kevin.jpg | College of Nursing | Faculty | |||
| Kevin Knutson, M.ED., CMHC, NCC | Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MHC) | Faculty | Kevin Knutson has been a licensed mental health counselor for the past 23 years. As a counselor he has worked in public schools, adult and youth residential facilities, online counseling, wilderness programs, private practice, and in mental health facilities. His areas of expertise include sexual abuse, domestic violence, substance abuse, parenting, training, and leadership. He has presented at many local, state, and national professional conferences. He has taught many master’s level mental health courses as an associate faculty at the University of Phoenix for the past 16 years and recently at Westminster College as an adjunct faculty. Prior to his work in counseling and academia, Kevin served a tour in Germany as an officer in the US Army and then as a Branch Manager of a bank. He graduated from Brigham Young University with degrees in Corporate Communications (BA) and Educational Psychology (M.Ed.). Kevin is a student in a CACREP accredited doctoral program through the University of Cumberlands studying Counselor Education and Supervision with an anticipated graduation date of 2021. Kevin was one of the founding members assisting in the development and accreditation of the RMUoHP Mental Health and School Counseling programs. | /images/faculty/knutson-kevin.jpg | Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MHC) | Faculty | |||
| Kim Barber, MS, ATC, LAT | Master of Science in Health Science (MSHS) | Adjunct Faculty | Kim has 28 years of experience as a certified athletic trainer. She has Bachelor’s degrees in athletic training and sociology from North Dakota State University and Master’s degrees in sports medicine and biomechanics from the University of Oregon. She has worked in the collegiate, high school, and clinic settings, but her passion is working with high school aged athletes. Through Cincinnati Children’s Kim provides care at Lockland High School. Kim has published extensively, most notably in injury epidemiology, biomechanics, and brain injury. Before moving to Ohio she was the coordinator for the large-scale NATA project, the National High School Sports Injury Registry. Her current position is Senior Research Assistant and she works with the Sports Medicine department in writing grants and conducting various research projects. She is also the Director of the BNA Lab in the SPORT Center at Cincinnati Children’s. Kim is an adjunct professor at Northern Kentucky University where she teaches Research Methods. She is also an Assistant Professor at Rocky Mountain University of Health Sciences and teaches Injury Prevention and Recognition, Preventative Measures, and Research Methods in their master’s program. She is a PhD student in the Health Science program with an Athletic Training concentration. She is a member of the NATA, GLATA, and OATA and belongs to several committees within those organizations. Kim is on the Board of Directors of the National Operating Committee on the Standards of Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) representing the NATA. She received the 2018 Gatorade Secondary School Athletic Trainer of the Year District 4, 2019 NATA Service Award, 2020 NATA Most Distinguished Athletic Trainer Award, and 2020 NATA Secondary School Athletic Trainer of the Year award District 4. She was also selected as the 2019 Girl Scouts of Western Ohio Woman of Distinction. | /images/faculty/barber-foss-kim.jpg | Master of Science in Health Science (MSHS) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Kim Masker, OTD, OTR/L, CHT | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) | Concentration Track Director | Kimberly received her OT degree from Washington University in 2000, and received her post-professional doctorate in OT from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMUoHP) in 2015. She earned her CHT designation in 2007. Kim’s clinical practice is at The Hand Center at Bristol Regional Medical Center in Bristol, Tennessee. Her professional interests focus on nerve injuries, wounds, upper extremity multi-trauma, and treatment of musicians. She enjoys writing for various hand therapy related publications and blogs. She serves as a consultant for Axogen on studies such as pain and peripheral nerve injuries. She has volunteered for several years with the American Society of Hand Therapists, has served as board member as Director of the Education Division and currently as Secretary Treasurer, and is co-editor of the recently released 4th edition of the CHT Test Prep Book. She currently serves as Secretary Treasurer of the Northeast District of the Tennessee Occupational Therapy Association. She has been an adjunct professor of occupational therapy as well as a frequent guest speaker. She is currently an adjunct professor as well as Concentration Track Director for the Hand Therapy track in the post-professional occupational therapy doctorate program at RMUoHP. Kim has a passion for teaching, whether patients, the public, other health professionals, or graduate students during clinical fieldworks. She has been able to take that passion into the classroom to teach future OT’s and is glad to be giving back at RMUoHP. | /images/faculty/nophoto.jpg | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) | Concentration Track Director | |||
| Kimberlee Ann Shibinski, EdD | Master of Science in Health Science (MSHS) | Adjunct Faculty | Kimberlee Ann Shibinski, EdD Faculty, Master of Science in Health Science Dr. Shibinski started her college career as an undergraduate at Eastern Kentucky University with a B. S Physical Education. She received her master’s degree from Indiana University in Physical Education Administration. During that time, she served as a graduate assistant coach for the Indiana University Volleyball program. Dr. Shibinski began her intercollegiate coaching career in 1982 through 1986 at Texas Woman’s University, in Denton, Texas while serving on various committees at the NCAA Division II level. In 1986, she moved to Columbia, SC, to become the Athletic Director, Head Women’s Volleyball Coach and Instructor in Health and Physical Education. While in South Carolina, 1986-99 she earned an Ed D. in Curriculum and Instruction at the University of South Carolina. Through her career she has held professoriate positions at Middle Tennessee State University in the Educational Leadership Department and at the College of Mount Saint Joseph (Cincinnati, OH), in the Education Division. With expertise in the areas of effective teaching strategies and educational leadership, Dr. Shibinski’s instruction focuses on learning theories, classroom management and effective coaching/teaching strategies. Dr. Shibinski has over 30 years of college teacher education experiences She attributes her teaching success to great mentors throughout her lifespan who she has emulated in her own instructional experiences. Dr. Shibinski is well rounded processing a wide-variety of characteristics and traits commonly observed in successful instructors. She believes in showing respect, leading by example, sincerely caring for every student in her classroom, being flexible, teaching with good instructional strategies, having good classroom management skills, and most importantly, being involved, by knowing and understanding her students. | /images/faculty/shibinski-kim.jpg | Master of Science in Health Science (MSHS) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Kimberly Lloyd, OTD, MOTR/L | Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) | Program Director | Dr. Lloyd received her Masters of Occupational Therapy (MOT) from Idaho State University (ISU) in 2004 and completed her Doctorate in Occupational Therapy (OTD) from Rocky Mountain University in 2019. Dr. Lloyd has 18+ years clinical experience and 10 years of full-time experience in higher education as an assistant, now associate professor. At ISU she served as Academic Fieldwork Educator and Director of Clinical Education for 10 years and 2 years as the Chair of the Admissions Committee. Since 2020 Dr. Lloyd has served as an adjunct faculty member, capstone reviewer for the ppOTD program and recently has been assisting with the candidacy application for the eOTD program here at RMUoHP. Dr. Lloyd is now the founding Program Director of the COTA/MOT bridge program here at RMUoHP as of August 1, 2022. Dr. Lloyd has designed/implemented numerous graduate-level courses and continuing education trainings related to aging in place, fieldwork education and dementia. Dr. Lloyd has 6 interprofessional grants that have been funded and been part of four external interprofessional grant application (NIH, NSF & DOD). She has delivered 19 peer-reviewed presentations and 12 peer-reviewed publications. Dr. Lloyd continues to be involved in research as the PI or co-PI with topics that include occupation-based practice vs. occupation-based intervention, intervention for sleep disturbances with adults with dementia, the dosage of commonly used occupational therapy intervention strategies, and exploring the use of sensory-based intervention for sleep among children with autism spectrum disorder. Dr. Lloyd has significant experience with community-based programs that include Baby Boomers (a health program for medically fragile clients), Humpty Dumpty (fall prevention program), adult neurological interprofessional educational treatment team, interdisciplinary Thomas Geriatric Symposium and was part of creating the Bengal Experience (ADL/IADL summer camp for prospective college students with disabilities). During her time at ISU she received the Kasiska Division of Health Sciences (KDHS) Interprofessional Collaborator of the year award in 2017 and the KDHS Clinical Researcher of the year award in 2018. Dr. Lloyd is the co-founder and CEO of POTEN, where she manages research and projects/interventions of adaptive devices for individuals with disabilities and individuals with general issues related to aging and aging in place. | /wp-content/uploads/2021/01/lloyd-kimberly-682x1024.jpg | Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) | Program Director | |||
| Kristen Ipson, MS, CCC-SLP | Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) | Faculty | Kristen Ipson is a speech-language pathologist who joined RMUoHP in January 2019 as a Clinical Educator in the M.S. SLP program. She earned her B.S. degree at Brigham Young University and her M.S. degree at the University of Utah. Ms. Ipson has clinical experience working with clients from infancy through adulthood in a variety of settings, including early intervention, public schools, outpatient voice clinic, and skilled nursing facilities. Her clinical focus has included assessing and treating infants and toddlers with delays and disorders in feeding, swallowing, communication, and cognition with advanced clinical skills in assessing and treating late language emergence, early identification of speech sound disorders, and early use of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). | /images/faculty/ipson-kristen.jpg | Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) | Faculty | |||
| Kristen Johnson, PT, EdD, MS, NCS | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Johnson received her bachelor’s degree in physical therapy from Quinnipiac University in 1997 and began her practice first in acute care and wound care and then neurologic rehabilitation in Houston, Texas. She returned to school and received her Advanced Masters in Physical Therapy from Texas Woman’s University, Houston Campus and her Doctorate in Education from the University of St. Augustine. She has previously held an adjunct faculty position with Texas Woman’s University, Houston, Texas and at Mesa Community College, San Diego, California. She is currently a full time associate professor with the University of St. Augustine in San Marcos and teaches in the residential programs across campuses and in the FLEX program for Clinical Neuroscience, Neuromuscular I & III courses. Kristen received her competency based training in Vestibular Rehabilitation and is a Board Certified Specialist in Neurologic Physical Therapy from the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties. Kristen is also certified in the Neurodevelopmental Treatment of Adult Hemiplegia, and as a Certified Clinical Instructor. Kristen is currently the Co-chair for regional education for the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy and is a member of the IV STEP post dissemination team. Her clinical and research interests lie in patients with balance and vestibular disorders, traumatic brain injury and stroke. | /images/faculty/johnson-kristen.jpg | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Kristen Chou, DNP, APRN, FNP-C | College of Nursing | Faculty | Currently living in Arlington, TX with husband and two boys aged 3 and 1. Originally from Texas, we spent the last few years in Staten Island, NY during my husband's medical school training. I have worked in Emergency medicine as an RN, multiple specialty clinics, and as an NP have worked in women's healthcare, primary and urgent care, and Telehealth women's services. | College of Nursing | Faculty | ||||
| Kristin Biggins, OTD, OTR/L, CHT, CLT, PYT | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) | Adjunct Faculty | Kristin Biggins has been an occupational therapist since 1992. She received a B.S. in Physical Education/Athletic Training from Boise State University in 1985, a M.S degree in occupational therapy (OT) from San Jose State University in 1992, and a post-professional doctorate (OTD) through the hand therapy track from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMUoHP) in 2013. She obtained her certification in hand therapy in 2003, and a certification in lymphedema in 2019. Dr. Biggins has worked within the RMUoHP OTD program since 2013, initially as a teacher’s assistant, eventual adjunct faculty, and now in her current position within the hand therapy elective track program. Dr. Biggins lives in Hailey, Idaho, and works at St. Luke’s Wood River Medical Center. Her passion lies in providing preventative, conservative, and post-operative treatments for upper extremity diagnoses. In addition, she works within the cancer rehab program and with those with lymphedema. She is dedicated to emphasizing the holistic perspective of OT within her treatment sessions and is dually devoted to promoting OT within health prevention and wellness settings. Dr. Biggins is a medical yoga therapist and incorporates the tenets of the yoga practice through an OT lens with her clients in her privately owned yoga studio. She has 2 amazing grown sons, loves exploring the outdoors through hiking, biking, and fishing, enjoys photography, and dabbles in art. | /images/faculty/biggins-kristin.jpg | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Kristina Davis, DNP, APRN, ENP-C, FNP-C, AGACNP-BC | College of Nursing | Program Director | Dr. Davis has over 20 years of broad nursing experience, from working as a licensed practical nurse with chronically ill pediatric patients to teaching doctoral candidates in both Family and Acute Care Nurse Practitioner Programs. Dr. Kristina Davis is a certified ENP-C, FNP-C, and AGACNP-BC. She received a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of South Alabama in Mobile. Clinically Dr. Davis works as a sole provider for a Level IV Trauma Critical Care Hospital with responsibility for admissions, admitted patients, and managing emergency department patients. Academically, she is an Associate Professor and ENP Program Director at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in Provo, Utah. Dr. Davis is an active member of AANP, AAENP, ENA, RNO, and NONPF. Dr. Davis has received many awards for her professional services including, AANP Wyoming State Award of Excellence, 2020, RMUoHP Kings Peak Award in 2020 for virtual simulation innovation and 2021 for the development of a variety of nursing programs, and RMUoHP Plateau Award in 2021 for the development of the ENP curriculum. Dr. Davis special interests include active involvement in shaping healthcare policy, APRN advocacy, course development, international endeavors, and the pursuit of medical mission trips. During her free time, she enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, or skiing. | /images/faculty/davis-kristina.png | College of Nursing, College of NursingEmergency Nurse Practitioner (ENP) Certificate (Post-Graduate) | Program Director | |||
| Kyle Matsel, DPT, SCS, CSCS, PhD | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Faculty | Dr. Matsel is a Physical Therapist specializing in sports and orthopedic rehabilitation at ProRehab in Evansville. Kyle earned his bachelor's degrees in Exercise Science from the University of Southern Indiana and his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Evansville. Following earning his DPT, Kyle completed a residency in Sports Physical Therapy and received his board certification as a Sports Certified Specialist in 2013. In additional to clinical practice, Kyle is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Physical Therapy at the University of Evansville. Kyle is very passionate about teaching and is most proud of the opportunity to influence the next generation of great physical therapy professionals. Currently, Kyle is pursuing his PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences from the University of Kentucky where he is studying upper extremity specific functional testing in overhead athletes. Dr. Matsel also serves as an instructor for Functional Movements Systems where he presents nationally on topics related to comprehensive, systematic movement-based assessment and testing. Kyle also serves as a consultant with a number of collegiate and professional sports teams regarding injury prevention and performance enhancement. | /images/faculty/matsel-kyle.jpg | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Faculty | |||
| Laura Gunder, DHSc, PA-C | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Faculty | Dr. Gunder McClary has a variety of experience in medical education in clinical pathology, Physician Assistant education, graduate medical education, public health and post-professional doctoral programs since 1995. She has also practiced inpatient and outpatient family and internal medicine, medical house calls, rural medicine and telemedicine. She is currently the clinical director for a 3-year grant that provides health advocacy services via telemedicine as a pilot program to vulnerable populations in Florida. Dr. Gunder McClary has also worked as a medical education and accreditation consultant since 2008. Her academic interests include problem-based learning, medical writing, web-based learning and technology in teaching. She is the author and editor of two genetics textbooks and curriculums and teaches genetics across the country for various programs. When she is not teaching, consulting or seeing patients, Dr. Gunder McClary enjoys spending time with her husband, James, and their four children and two dogs, cooking, and enjoying a beach day or football game. | /images/faculty/mcclary-laura.jpg | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Faculty | |||
| Laura Anderson, DNP, APRN, WHNP-BC, CNM | College of Nursing | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Anderson is in clinical practice at the University of Utah hospital at the Obstetric Emergency Department. She is dual board certified as a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner and Certified Nurse Midwife. Her clinical areas of expertise include reproductive medicine, obstetric emergencies, and women’s health. Dr. Anderson practiced as a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner at Planned Parenthood with an emphasis on transgender care. Her teaching responsibilities include working as a clinical trainer for Nexplanon, course development and design, and clinical instruction. Dr. Anderson earned dual bachelor degrees in Nursing and Exercise Sport Science at the University of Utah along with the designation of Undergraduate Research Scholar. She has been involved in research of recruitment strategies for video-recorded studies and prenatal care curriculum development for women on Methadone and Suboxone therapies. She completed a doctorate in Women’s Health and Midwifery at the University of Utah and is currently a George S. and Dolores Dore’ Eccles Graduate Fellow. Her doctoral project developed a group prenatal care curriculum for women on Methadone and Suboxone replacement therapies. Doctoral Project: Curriculum design for group prenatal care for women on Methadone and suboxone therapies. Research and Clinical Interests: Obstetric Emergencies | College of Nursing | Adjunct Faculty | ||||
| Lauren Stanford, MPAS, PA-C | Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) | Faculty | Lauren Stanford, PA-C, grew up in Southern California and attended Brigham Young University receiving a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science in 2012. She graduated with a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in 2017. Lauren completed an Academic Residency with RMUoHP's MPAS program as part-time faculty before joining the faculty full-time in 2019. Her clinic experience is primarily in urgent care. | /images/faculty/stanford-lauren.jpg | Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) | Faculty | |||
| Lauriann Broad, DNP, APRN, WHNP-C, FNP-C | College of Nursing | Adjunct Faculty | Lauriann Mahealani Broad, NP, APRN, FNPC, WHNPC has served as a Nurse Practitioner in Honolulu, Hawaii since 1997. She has worked in a variety of different settings as an NP to include physical examinations and treatment in the home with Episource Health which encompassed the care of patients on the island of Oahu as well as Kauai. As an NP she worked from 2008 - 2017 in the Women's Health Clinic, the Veterans Homeless Program and the Gastroenterology and Post Traumatic Clinics at Veteran's Affairs in Honolulu, Hawaii. Prior to the VA Lauriann worked in the Public Health Division of Tripler Army Medical Center, Department of Defense from 1989 to 2008. Lauriann served as an Adjunct Faculty for the University of Hawaii and Hawaii Pacific College schools of nursing precepting both Bachelor and Master's nursing program students beginning in 2008. Lauri's nursing experience has been vast as she also worked as a U.S. Navy Reservist Nurse Corps Officer from 1989 until her retirement as a Navy Captain in 2016. She has provided medical care on many deployments and missions around the world supporting the needs of the military as a nurse practitioner. Medical care and treatment included military personnel at clinics throughout the United States as well to individuals abroad in remote villages to include the Philippines, Columbia, Japan and throughout the South Pacific. Lauri currently works as a call in medical provider for the filming industry in Hawaii in which she provides nursing care and treatment of filming personnel for minor and acute medical injuries. Her hobbies include canoe paddling, pickle ball and hula. She enjoys being with family and friends and in general celebrating life. | /images/faculty/broad-lauriann.jpg | College of Nursing | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Linda Spencer, Ph.D., CCC-SLP | Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) | Program Director & Chair | Dr. Spencer earned her Bachelor of Science degree and Master of Arts degree in speech and hearing science at the University of Iowa. She then practiced in hospitals in Iowa, Idaho, Wisconsin before working as a research scientist at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics Pediatric Cochlear Implant project. She completed her Ph.D. in speech and hearing science at the University of Iowa in 2006 and has over 40 peer-reviewed publications in journals such as Journal of Speech and Hearing Research, Ear and Hearing and the Journal of Deaf Studies and Deaf Education. She was the program director of the Communication Disorders department at New Mexico State University before coming to Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. Dr. Spencer's area of research includes the speech, language and literacy development of children with severe to profound hearing loss. She was the Co-PI of an NIH grant with Dr. Marc Marschark at Rochester Institute of the Deaf, in Rochester N.Y., that investigated the cognitive and language underpinnings of speech, language and cognitive skills of individuals with moderate to profound hearing loss. | /images/faculty/spencer-linda-phd.jpg | Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) | Program Director | Chair | ||
| Lori Thein Brody, PT, PhD, SCS, LAT | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences, Master of Science in Health Science (MSHS) | Adjunct Faculty | Lori Thein Brody is a professor at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in Provo, Utah and a Physical Therapist and Athletic Trainer at the University of Wisconsin Hospital Sportsmedicine and Spine Center in Madison, WI. She has taught in physical therapy education programs at Ithaca College and the University of Wisconsin, Madison. Dr. Brody has lectured extensively across the country on management of orthopaedic and sports related injuries, aquatic physical therapy, arthritis and other connective tissue problems and musculoskeletal primary care. She has numerous articles and chapters to her credit and along with Carrie Hall, she co-authored Therapeutic Exercise: Moving Toward Function, (Lippincott Williams and Wilkins) now in its fourth edition. She also co-edited Aquatic Exercise for Rehabilitation and Training (Human Kinetics Publishers) with Paula Geigle. She served on the Musculoskeletal Panel for Volume II of the Guide to Physical Therapist Practice, and on the Guide to Physical Therapist Practice Task Force, Volume III. She also served on the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties, including serving as its chair. Dr. Brody served on and chaired the Committee for the Credentialing of Post-Professional Clinical Residencies and Fellowships. She is the 2006 recipient of the Ron Peyton Award from the American Academy of Sports Physical Therapy and the 2019 recipient of the Hartgraves Award for Excellence in Teaching. | /images/faculty/brody-lori.jpg | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences, Master of Science in Health Science (MSHS) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Lynn Gitlow, PhD, OTR/L, ATP, FAOTA | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) | Faculty | Dr. Lynn Gitlow has been an occupational therapist for 30 years practicing in the areas of mental health, geriatrics and assistive technology. She has also been an occupational therapy educator for over 20 years in both occupational therapy assistant and occupational therapy programs. Dr. Gitlow is certified by RESNA as an assistive technology practitioner and was the Director of a federally funded assistive technology program in the state of Maine. Presently she teaches the course Technology Interventions for Occupational Therapists at Ithaca College along with other courses. She has presented at local, national and international conferences on the topic of AT and has published on the topic as well. Her research focuses on assistive technology for elders and people with cognitive disabilities. | /images/faculty/nophoto.jpg | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) | Faculty | |||
| Mace Hamblin, DHSc, MPA | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Faculty | Mace Hamblin earned his undergraduate degree in Exercise and Sport Science from the University of Utah, after which he and his family moved to Phoenix, AZ for nine years, where he earned a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Arizona State University as well as his Doctorate degree in Health Sciences with an emphasis in Leadership and Organizational Behavior. Dr.Hamblin has over 12 years of experience in higher education. Currently, he is a full-time faculty and Director of Clinical Education for the Physician Assistant Program at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. He is a certified consultant in emotional intelligence assessment using the EQ-i 2.0, and also adjunct faculty for A.T. Still University’s Doctor of Health Sciences program. | /images/faculty/hamblin-mace.jpg | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Faculty | |||
| Malissa Martin, EdD, AT-Ret | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Concentration Track Director | Dr. Martin is a member of the most prestigious group of athletic trainers in this country, the National Athletic Trainers Association Hall of Fame. The NATA Hall of Fame is reserved for those few individuals who have demonstrated a lifetime commitment to the profession and are recognized as distinguished leaders in the field. Her footprint in education for her exceptional contributions earned her this highest honor. Dr. Martin also holds the illustrious recognitions of NATA Most Distinguished Athletic Trainer, Sayers Bud Miller Distinguished Athletic Training Educator, Rocky Mountain University Hartgrave’s Excellence in Teaching Award, the Greater Lakes Athletic Training Education Award, the Southeast Athletic Trainer’s Educator and Administrator Award, and is a recipient of the NATA Professional Development Award. Dr. Martin is a 2-time recipient of the RMU Presidential Award the highest award the University bestows. Dr. Martin hails from a rural German community in Southern Ill. She served as the head women’s athletic trainer at the University of South Carolina where she developed and directed the first accredited athletic training education program in the Palmetto State. She held similar administrative roles at Middle Tennessee State University and Mount St. Joseph University in Cincinnati, Oh. Known in the athletic training profession as a renowned educator and for her work with professional development Martin is an author of over 100 articles, books, home study programs and grants. She has taken the platform for over 120 national and regional presentations/workshops. Dr. Martin serves on the editorial board for the Athletic Training Education Journal and the International Journal of Athletic Therapy and Training. Her research interests include various topics in education and female health issues. During Dr. Martin’s tenure at Rocky Mountain University she has led the charge in developing and administering a “Teaching Effectiveness Program”, an inaugural “faculty development program”, a program assessment process, a certificate in “learning and design in healthcare education” and has guided/mentored over 80 current students and alumni in completing a terminal degree and becoming stewards of their discipline, scholars, and leaders in the profession and academic community. Dr. Martin enjoys cooking, hiking, kayaking, cycling, and fishing. She is an off-campus employee and resides in Lawrenceburg, Indiana. | /images/faculty/martin--malissa.jpg | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Concentration Track Director | |||
| Manuel Romero, PhD, ATC, CSCS, PES, CES | Master of Science in Health Science (MSHS) | Adjunct Faculty | My name is Dr. Manuel G Romero and I have spent the last 20 years in the professional sports setting as a certified Athletic Trainer and certified strength and conditioning specialist. Most recently I was the Head Athletic Trainer and Director of Research and Innovation at the Sacramento Kings of the NBA. I also spent seven seasons with the Los Angeles Lakers culminating in two world championships. Before I left the professional sports setting I was a member of the NBA Sports Science committee. I am a published author in the Journal of Athletic Training. I have a passion for curiosity and a desire to lift people to their full potential. | /images/faculty/romero-manny.png | Master of Science in Health Science (MSHS) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Mar Creixell, PharmD, PhD | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Creixell began her career as a pharmacist doing research in drug delivery using nano-therapeutics to target solid and metastatic tumors. Her research focused on surface-surface interactions between circulating agents and body barriers that affect the outcomes of drug therapy. She received the Ramon Margalef Award for her research by the Board of Trustees of the University of Barcelona. She transitioned to clinical practice serving as an ambulatory care pharmacist with focus on thrombotic, vascular, and diabetic disease. Dr. Creixell currently serves as a medical science liaison in the medical affairs department of a large pharmaceutical company. Dr. Creixell is an alumni of the University of Barcelona and the Pompeu Fabra University. She did her post doctorate training at The University of Texas at Austin. Her expertise in research, industry, and healthcare systems provides a unique perspective on the continuum of care of patients, from bench to bed. She is a member of several professional associations such as American Health System Pharmacist, including the Utah and Idaho Chapter, American Heart Association, American College of Cardiology, including the Rockies Chapter, American Diabetes Association, and American Society of Nephrology. Dr. Creixell is an avid advocate for preventive and evidence-based medicine. She strongly encourages shared decision making between patients and providers, a challenging task that relies on the provider acting as an educator. In her spare time, Dr. Creixell enjoys leading a healthy lifestyle, taking road trips with her family in their van, xc skate skiing and mountain biking. She has yet to determine whether she prefers winter or summer in Utah! | /images/faculty/creixell-mar.jpg | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Marie Cherrington, PA-C | Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) | Faculty | Marie is a Physician Assistant and Dental Hygienist. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Dental Hygiene with emphasis in Business from Utah Valley University in 2009, and a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from Idaho State University in 2013. Marie joined the faculty and family of the Physician Assistant Program at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in 2017. Her professional experience includes Pediatrics Inpatient Psych, Family Medicine for the rural/underserved, and Dental Hygiene Adjunct Instructor at Utah Valley University. | /images/faculty/pittman-marie.jpg | Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) | Faculty | |||
| Mark Abel, Ph.D., CSCS*D, TSAC-F*D | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Adjunct Faculty | Mark Abel, Ph.D., CSCS*D, TSAC-F*D teaches the Applications of Exercise Science in Tactical Fitness and Performance (HP 710) course within the Doctor of Philosophy in Health Science – Human and Sport Performance Track. Dr. Abel is also an Associate Professor and Director of the Exercise Physiology Laboratory in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Promotion at the University of Kentucky. Dr. Abel received his B.S and M.S. degrees in Exercise and Sport Science from the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse and his Ph.D. in Exercise and Sport Science from the University of Utah. Dr. Abel conducts research to improve the safety, health, fitness, and performance of firefighters and law enforcement officers. He has served as a paid-on-call firefighter. He received the National Strength and Conditioning Association’s (NSCA) Tactical Strength and Conditioning Practitioner of the Year Award. He served as a member of the NSCA’s Tactical Strength and Conditioning – Facilitator (TSAC-F) Certification Exam Development Committee and the TSAC-Special Interest Group. Dr. Abel also owns Tactical Fitness Institute, LLC which assists fire departments and law enforcement agencies in developing legally defensible physical ability tests and offers other educational and exercise programming services to meet their health and performance goals. | /images/faculty/nophoto.jpg | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Mark Walker, PhD | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Faculty | Dr. Mark Walker joined RMU faculty as an adjunct professor for the first year of the entry-level DPT program in May of 2010. After teaching the first year, and because of the awesome faculty, he decided to apply for a full time position. Prior to academia, Dr. Walker practiced clinically for over 30 years in hospital PT department administration and private practice in the orthopedic setting. In the hospital setting, he has worked in acute care, neuro and outpatient. He has also done home health and worked in skilled nursing facilities. Currently, he owns a PT Outpatient Private Practice in Springville, UT, and spends 15 hours per week still treating patients and running the practice. A bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy was awarded Dr. Walker in 1982 from the University of Utah. He earned his PhD in Exercise Physiology from Brigham Young University in 2000. Dr. Walker is married and has 5 children and 9 grandchildren. He grew up in Mapleton, UT. Hobbies include flying, tinkering, and gardening. | /images/faculty/walker-mark.jpg | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Faculty | |||
| Mark J Hardy, Pharm D | College of Nursing | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Mark Hardy, Pharm D is the Executive Director of the ND Board of Pharmacy. Mark is a native of Neche, ND and a 2007 graduate of the North Dakota State University College of Pharmacy where he earned his Doctor of Pharmacy Degree. Previous to joining the Board, Mark worked 5 years for Thrifty White Drug in Cavalier, ND and Wadena, MN. Mark has been active in the profession of pharmacy in North Dakota serving in leadership positions with the NDSU School of Pharmacy and the ND Pharmacist Association. Mark is the chairman of the Prescription Monitoring Program Interconnect committee which fosters interstate sharing of data between PMPs. Mark has been active within the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy serving on Task Forces, participating in multiple work groups and providing presentations of his experiences. Mark was the 2016 recipient of the Horizon Award from the NDSU Alumni Association, recipient of the Mylan Excellence in Pharmacy Award and also was awarded the Pharmacist Mutual Insurance Distinguished Young Pharmacist for 2009. | /images/faculty/hardy-mark.jpg | College of Nursing | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Mary Shotwell, PhD-HPW, OTR/L, FAOTA | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | | Dr. Mary Shotwell received her bachelor’s in occupational therapy from Temple University (Philadelphia, PA); her master’s in health Professions Education from Medical University in Charleston, SC), and her PhD in Adult Education from University of GA (Athens, GA). Mary earned graduate certificates in Gerontology as well as in Interdisciplinary Qualitative Studies from University of Georgia. Mary has worked in many areas of OT practice including: The US Army, Mental Health (inpatient/day treatment), Inpatient Acute Care and Rehabilitation, Outpatient Neuro and Hand Therapy, Work Hardening, School System, Vocational Programs for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities, Private Practice Pediatrics, Home Health and Long-term care. Mary has worked at three different universities as a faculty member and other roles in leadership. She has served her state and national OT associations as well as serving a professional association related to driver rehabilitation. Mary has served on a state licensing board as well as the Accreditation Council for OT Education. Mary has authored numerous book chapters as well as peer reviewed journal articles. Mary is currently a faculty member in the PhD in Health Sciences Program. | /images/faculty/mary-shotwell.jpg | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | ||||
| Mary Jane Rapport, PT, DPT, PhD | Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (tDPT) | Adjunct Faculty | Mary Jane Rapport, PT, DPT, PhD, FAPTA is a Professor in the School of Medicine, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and the Department of Pediatrics, at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. She is the Student Services Coordinator of the Physical Therapy Program with teaching and administrative responsibilities, and she directs the Teaching Scholars Program in the School of Medicine. She is the Director of the Pediatric PT Residency Program and the PT Discipline Director for the LEND program. Dr. Rapport has been an adjunct professor at RMUOHP for 9 years, teaching in the pediatric science track both online and on campus. With over 35 years of clinical experience as a physical therapist, primarily working with children and families, and 20 plus years of experience as academic faculty, Dr. Rapport has a long record of clinical and academic contributions. She has extensive teaching experience, a productive record of publications, and has been a frequent speaker and educator of pediatric physical therapists nationally. Dr. Rapport is active in the APTA, primarily in the Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy, where she has served in several elected and appointed leadership positions. She received the Lucy Blair Award for service and was selected as a Catherine Worthingham Fellow of the APTA. She has served in the APTA House of Delegates and is currently the vice-president of the Colorado Chapter APTA. | Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (tDPT) | Adjunct Faculty | ||||
| Megan O’Neil, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, OCN | College of Nursing | Faculty | Megan O’Neil earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature in 2009 and quickly decided to return to school for her nursing degree. She then graduated with her BSN from Andrews University in Southwestern Michigan in 2013. After several years of working as a nurse she went back to school and earned her Doctorate of Nursing Practice specializing as a Family Practice Nurse Practitioner from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in 2019. She began her nursing career as a staff nurse at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, Illinois on the Stem Cell Transplant and Hematology Oncology floor. After moving to Cody, Wyoming in 2014, she made the change to work in rural, outpatient oncology and infusion where she worked until 2019 when she graduated from NP school. She now is working as a medical oncology and hematology nurse practitioner in Phoenix, Arizona. Megan has a strong passion for working in oncology and her Doctoral Scholarly Project was a reflection of this. Titled, “Use of the Distress Thermometer in Rural Outpatient Oncology,” Megan implemented a distress screening tool in a rural oncology clinic. In her free time, Megan enjoys spending time with her husband, Case and her children, Caroline and Jett. They enjoy hiking, road trips and scenic drives. Her favorite part about her position as the lead Director of Clinical Education for her alma mater, Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions is being apart of the on-site intensive weeks with the hybrid programs. | /images/faculty/oneil-megan.jpg | College of Nursing | Faculty | |||
| Megan Pratt, PT, DPT, ATC | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Faculty | Dr. Pratt is a graduate of Indiana Wesleyan University earning a Bachelor's degree in Athletic Training in 2011. She worked as an adjunct faculty in the Physical Therapist Assistant program at Florida Gateway College until 2012. Later, she moved to Tennessee and earned her Physical Therapist Assistant degree from Roane State University in 2013. She primarily worked in an outpatient physical therapy clinic specializing in orthopedics and pelvic health in Knoxville, TN. She returned to school and earned her Doctorate degree in Physical Therapy from RMU in 2017. After graduation, she practiced pelvic health physical therapy at ATI Physical Therapy in Greenville, SC. Upon moving back to Utah, she assisted in laboratory portions of multiple classes in the entry-level DPT program at RMU from 2018-2020 and clinically practices in pelvic health at Synergy Physical Therapy in Spanish Fork, UT. In her current role, Dr. Pratt will continue teaching students and will be part of the clinical education team. She will be starting classes to obtain her Healthcare Professions Education Certificate to continue her life-long love of learning. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys spending time with her husband and her son, traveling, hiking, and camping. | /wp-content/uploads/2021/01/pratt-megan-1024x969.jpg | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Faculty | |||
| Michael Bartholomew, DPT, GCS | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Faculty | Dr. Michael Bartholomew received his B.S in Exercise Science from Brigham Young University and later his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Nevada-Las Vegas. He operated and owned an out-patient orthopedic private practice from 2007-2011. In this setting he treated patients with orthopedic, sports and spine related injuries. Additionally, he worked closely with the Utah Labor Commission to assist injured workers in their attempt to return to the job through work hardening programs, functional capacity evaluations and extensive patient education. Dr. Bartholomew later worked as a Rehabilitation Manager and Lead Physical Therapist at two different skilled nursing facilities, assisting primarily the geriatric population. He treated a wide variety of patients in these settings, including patients with neurological, cardiopulmonary and orthopedic pathologies. Dr. Bartholomew had been an adjunct faculty member at Rocky Mountain University for 2 years prior to joining them full time in January 2015. He is a Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Geriatric Physical Therapy. His research interest includes resistance training in the geriatric population, motivational factors that influence lifestyle changes and the effects of cycling across the lifespan. He teaches the Physical Therapy Management course, assists with clinical education component of the program and assists with many of the orthopedic/kinesiology labs. He is an avid cyclist, enjoys being outside, resistance training and loves spending time with his wife and 5 children. | /images/faculty/bartholomew-michael.jpg | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Faculty | |||
| Michael Begg, DMSc, PA-C, ATC | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | Michael Begg DMSc, PA-C, ATC– Mike is a Physician Assistant with over 25 years of Orthopedic surgical and clinical experience. Along with National Certification as a Physician Assistant, Mike also holds National Certification as an Athletic Trainer, a Master of Science Degree in Kinesiology and Sports Medicine, and a Doctor of Medical Science Degree. Concurrent to playing and active role in a busy clinical and surgical practice, Mike has taken a lead role in the education and professional mentoring of Orthopedic Surgery Fellows and Athletic Training Residents for over 20 years. Educating these two groups regarding clinical and surgical setting is but a small part of the overall approach taken, with mentoring all to reach professional and personal goals focusing on leadership with integrity and intrinsic reward being a consistent undertone. Mike also has been involved with the leadership team within the clinic with an emphasis on professional culture and interdepartmental communication. He has been affiliated with The Steadman Clinic for his entire career, either working with one of the Orthopedic Surgeons in the Vail Clinic or alongside of one of The Steadman Clinic Orthopedic Trained Fellows. His experience is extensive and includes both upper and lower extremity Sports Medicine, Adult Reconstruction, Non-Operative Pain and Spine and Regenerative Medicine. Recently, Mike has pursued the role of Clinical Trials Physician Assistant for the Steadman Philippon Research Institute, responsible for several Clinical Trials funded by the United States Department of Defense and other philanthropic organizations. Throughout his career, Mike has been actively involved with education within the clinic as well as providing educational opportunities through his own business venture, as well as working with other educational organizations. Mike has certification in Leadership and Professional Mentoring through the John Maxwell Group, a long-time leader within these fields. Mike is both excited and honored to share with you in this time of professional and personal growth and is committed to providing all that is necessary to help achieve your individual goals and expectations. | /images/faculty/begg-michael.jpg | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Michael Miller, PhD-HSP, EdD, ATC, CSCS*D, NSCA-CPT*D, TSAC-F, FNATA | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Concentration Track Director | Dr. Michael G. Miller is a Professor and Director of the Graduate Athletic Training Program at Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI. He has an EdD from West Virginia University and a Ph.D. from Western Michigan University. He holds certifications with distinction in CSCS, NSCA-CPT, and TSACF from the NSCA. In addition, Dr. Miller directs and advises NSCA ERP undergraduate and graduate programs within his department. Dr. Miller authored and co-authored numerous abstracts, manuscripts, texts, text chapters, and speaking engagements throughout the world. In addition, Dr. Miller is a Fellow for the NSCA and Fellow for the NATA and served as a board of director for the NSCA, serving one term as vice president. He recently has been inducted in the Michigan Athletic Trainers’ Society Hall of Fame. Dr. Miller is also serving as a firefighter for his community. In his free time, he is an active triathlete, having competed in over 60 triathlons of varying distances. | /images/faculty/miller-michael.jpg | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Concentration Track Director | |||
| Michael A. Negrette, MA and PhD candidate, LMFT | Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MHC) | Adjunct Faculty | Mr. Negrette has a Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Syracuse University and is a doctoral candidate at Texas Tech University. He has worked in many clinical settings such as community mental health, Utah State’s Adult Protective Services, and LDS Family Services. For the past 10 years, Mr. Negrette has been in full-time private practice. For the past 20 years, concurrent to clinical experience, Mr. Negrette has taught for Texas Tech University, Argosy University, the University of Phoenix, and now Rocky Mountain University. Mr. Negrette has published in peer reviewed journals and presented at dozens of national conferences on topics of the clinical use of communication technology, group therapy process, play therapy, multiculturalism/diversity, postmodernism, and sex therapy.Mr. Negrette is married with 6 children. We are an active family and with 6 children there is always something going on. We attend a lot of sporting events for the kids and we are big REAL Salt Lake fans. We also try to catch as many SL Bee and Grizzly games as we can. Other interests include being an avid reader (I’m always reading something fun..lets call it self care!), playing tennis, and we love travel and road trips. | /wp-content/uploads/2020/11/negrette-michael-199x300.jpg | Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MHC) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Michele Monaco, DSc, ATC | Master of Science in Athletic Training Practice (MSATP), Emergency Nurse Practitioner (ENP) Certificate (Post-Graduate), Master of Science in Athletic Training Practice (MSATP) | Adjunct Faculty | Master of Science in Athletic Training Practice (MSATP), Emergency Nurse Practitioner (ENP) Certificate (Post-Graduate), Master of Science in Athletic Training Practice (MSATP) | Adjunct Faculty | |||||
| Michelle Vess, DMSc, MPAS, CAQ | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Vess has practiced in medicine as a PA since 2007. She received her Bachelor's of Science in Psychology in 2004 from Southern Arkansas University. She received her Master's of Science in Physician Assistant Studies in 2007 from Harding University. She received her Doctorate in Medical Sciences with focus in psychiatry from Rocky Mountain University in 2021. Dr. Vess also completed her CAQ in psychiatry in 2016. Her clinical experience includes family practice, pediatrics, urgent care, emergency medicine and psychiatry. Early in her psychiatry practice, she maintained hours in the ER and urgent care clinics. Dr. Vess has practiced in psychiatry all but her 3 clinical years in family practice and pediatrics. Dr. Vess has spent time working in geriatric psychiatry, outpatient private practice psychiatry, treating nursing home patients with psychiatric needs, and in community mental health. Dr. Vess serves on local committees to enrich her community, such as area school's student health advisory committees. Dr. Vess also precepts PA and NP students for psychiatric rotations. She first became involved as an adjunct faculty professor at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions Summer of 2022. Dr. Vess continues to practice in psychiatric medicine in rural North East Texas. In her free time, Dr. Vess enjoys dance classes, listening to live music, reading, traveling, and spending time with her husband and 3 children. | /images/faculty/vess-michelle.jpg | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Michelle L. Webb, EdD, OTD, OTR/L, CAPS | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD), Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Concentration Track Director | Dr. Webb currently serves as the Senior Director of Program Assessment and as a faculty member within the OTD and PhD in Health Sciences programs at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMUoHP). She received her Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree from RMUoHP in 2015. Dr. Webb obtained her Doctor of Education degree with a concentration in Higher and Postsecondary Education from Argosy University in 2018. She has a diverse background with a focus on leadership and administration, having worked in various directorship positions pertaining to postsecondary education. Dr. Webb is a licensed occupational therapist and certified aging-in-place specialist with over 30 years of healthcare experience. | /images/faculty/webb-michelle2.jpg | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD), Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Concentration Track Director | |||
| Mikala Geisert, DNP, APRN, CPNP | College of Nursing | Faculty | My name is Mikala Geisert and I am a pediatric nurse practitioner with my doctorate emphasizing teenage at risk behavior. I received my BSN at Creighton University in Omaha Nebraska in 2014, and my DNP at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha Nebraska in 2018. I currently work as a pediatric nurse practitioner at Lincoln Pediatric Group in Lincoln, NE as well as working as an adjunct professor at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions specializing in pediatrics. I am a member of NAPNAP, the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Association and have been accredited by the Pediatric Nursing Certification Board. While obtaining my doctorate degree I was a member of Sigma Tau Nursing Honor Society. | College of Nursing | Faculty | ||||
| Miriam Cortez-Cooper, PT, PhD | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Assistant Program Director | Dr. Cortez-Cooper, a native Texan, received her physical therapy degree from Boston University, Boston, MA in 1985. She returned to her hometown of Corpus Christi to practice there and in rural east Texas. While immersed in the rehabilitation of patients with many diabetes-related complications, she decided to pursue graduate studies to discover how to prevent them. In 1991, she earned her master’s degree from The University of Texas at Austin where she did research in exercise intensity and glucose uptake in an animal model of diabetes. Dr. Cortez-Cooper returned to the clinic and eventually academia to practice preventive medicine and to share with PT students, her passion for health and wellness. She taught in the collaborative program between the University of Texas Medical Branch-Galveston and the University of Texas at El Paso from 1992 – 1996 and later, at Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas from 1997 – 2000. Dr. Cortez-Cooper earned her Ph.D. from The University of Texas in 2005 where she investigated the impact of resistance and aerobic exercise on vascular stiffness in young and older adults. Upon receiving her degree, she taught in the DPT program at Augusta University, Augusta, GA for 10 years. Dr. Cortez-Cooper continued to pursue clinical practice and research related to prevention, health, and wellness throughout her tenure at AU. Dr. Cortez-Cooper came to Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in May 2016 and teaches Applied Physiology, Pharmacotherapy, Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation, Pathophysiology, and Health and Wellness. She lives in Vineyard, UT with her husband, son (when he comes home from college) and crazy boxer dog. | /images/faculty/miriam-cortez-cooper.jpg | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Assistant Program Director | |||
| Misti Timpson, DPT, PhD, NCS | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Faculty | Misti Timpson graduated from Utah State University with a degree in Health Education and Biology in 1990, a Master of Science in Physical Therapy from Washington University in St. Louis Missouri in 1992, a post professional Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from University of Utah in 2008, and a PhD in Health Promotion and Wellness from Rocky Mountain University in 2019. Misti received her NCS (Board Certified Specialist in Neurological Physical Therapy by the APTA) in 2003 and re-certified again in 2013. She received her CBIS (Certified Brain Injury Specialist) in 2010. She worked for 20 years in an acute inpatient rehabilitation center for Intermountain Healthcare as well as 2 years at IHC Hearing and Balance Center. Additionally, she has had experience in acute orthopedics, home health care and outpatient neurological rehabilitation. She has been heavily involved in international medical service for wheelchair provision as a certified WHO (World Health Organization) instructor. She has enjoyed teaching people with spinal cord injury how to ski, horseback ride, cycle, play tennis, and waterski. She is involved with Healing Hands for Haiti which has developed an outpatient PT and prosthetic clinic in Port au Prince Haiti. She loves cycling, volleyball and tennis. She and her husband, Mat, have two children and reside in Sandy, Utah. | /images/faculty/timpson-misti.jpg | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Faculty | |||
| Nancy Hamler, DMSc, MS, PA-C | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | Based out of California, Dr. Nancy Hamler joined Rocky Mountain University in the summer 2019. She started out her PA career in Family Medicine, and is currently working in a busy community Emergency Department. Dr. Hamler graduated with a Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) from the University of Lynchburg in 2018, and has been on faculty for a MPA as well as a Nutrition & Dietetics program in California. The latter follows her passion for food, and allows her a continued involvement in nutrition sciences/promotion/legislation, since she started her healthcare path as a Dietitian. As a German born/raised, Dr. Hamler has a deep appreciation for the benefits of universal healthcare. Dr. Hamler aspires to prepare future PA leaders to change the landscape of our current healthcare policies/regulations. In her free time, she enjoys her family and furry babies, and loves to travel the world (to indulge in different cuisines). | /images/faculty/hamler-nancy.jpg | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Nicole Mason, DMSc, PA-C, CAQ - Psychiatry | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Mason is an Oklahoma transplant, originally from central Illinois. She graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign with a Chemistry degree and the highest distinction in the curriculum. In 2005, she graduated from Midwestern University’s Physician Assistant program where Dr. Mason completed a master’s project on the concept of international PAs. This led to that year’s Master’s Project Award. This original research was later published in PAEA. Upon completion of her PA degree, she transitioned into medicine and has remained in the medical field for the past fifteen years. Dr. Mason is a University of Lynchburg Doctor of Medical Sciences graduate (DMSc) and currently practices general psychiatry in a rural health area, having obtained her Psychiatry CAQ in 2019. Dr. Mason is also a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants and the Oklahoma Academy of Physician Assistants, where she serves on the legislative and research committees. In addition to these activities, Dr. Mason is the founder and current president of the Academy of Doctoral PAs (www.padoc.org). Over her tenure as a PA, she has developed a deep passion for the underserved community, with prior medical missions trips both abroad and in her home community. Dr. Mason has served as a collegiate instructor over the past thirteen years and currently serves as a PA preceptor for a student-run free health clinic in an inner-city area. In addition, she works with telemedicine PA students across the country in both general psychiatry and primary care medicine. Dr. Mason adamantly believes that PAs increase patients’ access to care and that PAs provide proven, competent care in every healthcare setting. Removing antiquated legislation further improves patients’ access to the care they need while improving the administrative burden on the healthcare system and using the healthcare labor inputs in the most efficient manner possible. In short, she believes that PAs are America’s biggest healthcare success story. | /wp-content/uploads/2021/02/mason-nicole.jpg=Nicole Mason width=200 height | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Patrick J. Handlin, DMSc, PA-C, CAQ-Psych | Dr. Handlin has been clinically practicing as a psychiatry PA for over 22 years in West Michigan. He graduated from Grand Valley State University MPAS program in 1999 and was the first outpatient PA in the region to apply for credentialing as a specialty psychiatric provider, overcoming barriers and improving future credentialing of PAs working in psychiatry. Dr. Handlin was awarded the Psychiatry Certificate of Added Qualification in the inaugural year of 2011, and was awarded the 10-year CAQ-Psych recertification in 2021. He is a Doctor of Medical Science graduate of Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions Psychiatry Concentration Track. Dr. Handlin’s clinical experience and extensive history of working across multiple settings and levels of acuity have led to significant leadership roles in providing psychiatric care and integrating interdisciplinary approaches in both private and public settings. | /images/faculty/handlin-patrick.jpg | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | ||||
| Paul Stoneman, PT, DPT, PhD, OCS, SCS | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Dean | Paul Stoneman graduated from the Army-Baylor University Physical Therapy Program in 1987 with a Master’s of Physical Therapy degree. In 2001 he earned a PhD in Exercise Science from Brigham Young University. His doctoral research was on the effects on gait biomechanics of non-operative treatment of patients with knee osteoarthritis. He also completed his tDPT degree from Baylor University and received a Master’s of Strategic Studies from U.S. Army War College. He is a board certified clinical specialist in both Sports and Orthopaedic Physical Therapy. Dr. Stoneman retired from the military in 2012. His assignments during his military career include Chief of Physical Therapy at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Chief of Physical Therapy and of the Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation at Womack Army Medical Center, Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and Chief of Physical Therapy and Director of Sports Physical Therapy Residency Program at United States Military Academy, West Point. He has presented internationally on amputee rehabilitation. His research interests include functional outcome testing and therapeutic exercise. When not at work, Paul enjoys spending time with family, gardening, and playing guitar. Paul is a member of the Order of Military Medical Merit and has published over 10 articles in peer reviewed journals. | /images/faculty/stoneman-paul.jpg | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Dean | |||
| Phillip Sechtem, Ph.D., CCC-SLP | Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) | Faculty | Dr. Sechtem joined Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions as an Associate Professor in the M.S. SLP program in July 2017. He earned his B.A. in communication and his M.S. in speech-language pathology at Fort Hays State University (Hays, Kansas) in 1990 and 1994, respectively. He earned his Ph.D. in communication, sciences and disorders at Wichita State University in 2013. Dr. Sechtem has worked extensively in medical settings concentrating on acquired neurologic, cognitive, communication, voice, and swallowing disorders. Advanced procedures he conducts include videostroboscopic examinations of the larynx, computerized speech analysis, fiberoptic endoscopic evaluations of swallowing, modified barium swallow studies, and tracheoesophageal voice restoration. Dr. Sechtem’s teaching interests include neurologic bases of communication, acquired neurologic communication and swallowing disorders, anatomy and physiology of speech and hearing, and speech and hearing science. His research interests and publications encompass aspects of voice, swallowing, and aphasia. His aim is to advance colleagues and professionals who can competently provide evidence-based, patient-centered care upon graduation. He is honored and blessed to be a faculty member of the M.S. SLP program at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. He and his wife, Josefina, reside in Provo with their dog Jack. | /images/faculty/sechtem-phil.jpg | Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) | Faculty | |||
| Priscilla M. Danielson, PhD, CCC-SLP, ATAC | Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) | Faculty | Priscilla M. Danielson, PhD, CCCSLP, ATACP completed her studies for Master in Speech/Language Pathology at Memphis State University and her doctoral studies at Temple University in Educational Psychology, with a specialty in Special Education. Dr. Danielson’s work experience as a speech/language pathologist has included hospital clinical staff, private practice coordination with Otolaryngologists, public school speech/language pathology and Assistive Technology (AT) and Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) specialist, AAC trainer for caregivers, families, and users across the state of Pennsylvania, and administrator of a program at Temple University for college-age adults using AAC who were transitioning to independence and developing communication strategies and tools to support this transition. Dr. Danielson has served as an adjunct professor and clinical supervisor at West Chester University Department of Communication Disorders teaching Articulation and Phonology and Anatomy of Speech and Hearing structures and function. Most recently, Dr. Danielson was an adjunct professor at Temple University teaching undergraduate courses in Assistive Technology and Universal Design for Learning and at University of Delaware teaching graduate courses in Assistive Technology and High Incidence Disabilities. Dr. Danielson has maintained a lengthy private practice focused on language development and disorders in children and adolescents, fluency, and AT/AAC strategies and tools. Dr. Danielson has also provided consultation to public school districts and legal teams in the areas of AT/AAC tools, strategies, and implementation. | /images/faculty/nophoto.jpg | Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) | Faculty | |||
| Rebecca Durham Reder, OTD, OTR/L | Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (tDPT) | Adjunct Faculty | Rebecca Durham Reder, OTD, OTR/L, is Senior Clinical Director of the Division of Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy (OT & PT) at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. Under her direction, the Division of OT / PT has grown to be one of the largest and most respected in the country. Dr. Reder provides vision and leadership for a division with services in 11 locations and a staff of over 215. She also provides lectures on a national and international level. Her most recent work includes transforming the culture of her division into an evidence-based practice culture. Under her direction, the Division of OT & PT has written and published numerous evidence-based clinical practice guidelines, some of which have selected for inclusion on the National Guideline Clearinghouse website. Her division is now monitoring the treatment outcomes for children who are treated using the clinical practice guidelines. Using objective outcome data and the application of improvement science techniques, she is now working on creating changes that will result in improving the outcomes for the children that they serve. Dr. Reder received her bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy from Ohio State University and her doctorate from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. | /images/faculty/nophoto.jpg | Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (tDPT) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Rebecca L White, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, FPMHNPC-BC, NE | Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate (Post-Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric/Mental Health) | Faculty | Rebecca is an accomplished and result-driven educator and clinician committed to social justice, drawing upon over forty years of experience in academic, clinical, research, and global health training and implementation. Rebecca has developed, implemented, and evaluated online education for more than seven years and is teaching at Rocky Mountain University (RMU) Master's in psychiatry program online. past business partner in successful practice of psychiatry and family practice. She is committed to bridging interprofessional collaborations between undergraduate and graduate nursing and medical students, residents, and faculty while drawing upon a multidisciplinary foundation in all areas of medicine with a particular focus in psychiatry and addiction services. She holds a master's degree in family practice for over 17 years and a family psychiatric mental health nursing for more than eight years. Rebecca has been a nurse since 1980 and loves being a nurse. Rebecca is a motivated program implementer and curriculum developer with experience utilizing innovative pedagogy with extensive online and in-person teaching experience. Past IRB advisor for implementation research at the University of Rwanda and University of Global Health Equity with a passion for mentoring global health, medical, dental, and nursing students undertaking thesis research leading to publication and dissemination. Rebecca has many publications, but recently her qualitative research was published in the prestigious journal of International Perspectives in Psychology: Research, Practice, Consultation. As a past Rwanda-based global health program leader with connections and relationships in clinical licensing, and academic partners, Rebecca helped launch eight master tracks at the university of Rwanda from curriculum development to implementation. Rebecca most enjoys being able to assist her students in learning the foundation and nuances in psychiatric care, supporting our clients in achieving optimal mental health stability. She is passionate about providing care to underserved populations and in decreasing stigma for those suffering from mental health issues. Rebecca is highly motivated and committed to continuous professional growth and learning. she is a passionate educator and excited to join RMU in a more significant role. | /images/faculty/white-rebecca.png | Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate (Post-Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric/Mental Health) | Faculty | |||
| Rhodri L. Purcell, PT, MPT, EdD, OCS, CSCS | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Faculty | Rhodri Purcell graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in Therapeutic Recreation in 1993, after which he served for four years as an intelligence officer in the United States Air Force. Following his military service, he attended Idaho State University, graduating with a Master of Physical Therapy degree in 2001. After graduation, he rejoined the Air Force as a physical therapist, serving for another four years. Rhodri’s experience as a licensed physical therapist has included a variety of settings, including military, acute care, home health, pediatrics, and outpatient orthopedics. He currently maintains his clinical practice in the outpatient orthopedic setting with Intermountain Healthcare at Utah Valley Hospital. Rhodri has been a Board-Certified Clinical Specialist in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy (OCS) since 2005, with successful re-certification in 2015. He has also maintained his certification as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association since 2006. Before joining the faculty at Rocky Mountain University, Rhodri was the Associate Program Director for Provo College’s PTA program, where he directed the clinical education program and taught courses in orthopedic physical therapy, therapeutic exercise, human anatomy, and pathophysiology. He also helped create a curriculum for a Bachelor of Science program in Physical Therapist Assisting, authoring courses in Orthopaedics and Professionalism. In 2019, Rhodri completed his Doctor of Education degree with an emphasis in Adult Education from Capella University. Outside of work, Rhodri loves to spend time with his wife and four children, backpacking, hiking, fly-fishing, mountain-biking, and snowboarding. | /wp-content/uploads/2019/03/purcell-rhodri-300x293.png | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Faculty | |||
| Robert Krueger, PhD, OTD, OTR/L | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Robert Krueger is an Associate Professor and Doctoral Capstone Coordinator at Whitworth University in the Doctor of Occupational Therapy program. Dr. Krueger has practiced as an occupational therapist primarily in outpatient orthopedic and industrial rehabilitation settings since 1990. He completed his post-professional OTD at RMUoHP in 2010 and a Ph.D. in 2019. He has taught occupational therapy as a tenure track assistant professor in undergraduate and graduate-level programs at Western New Mexico University, Eastern Washington University, Pacific University, and Baylor University. His professional scholarly pursuits are in the areas of evidence-based practice (EBP) and health promotion & wellness in adults with risk factors for chronic illness. Dr. Krueger has published on the topics of EBP, reflective practice, and curriculum development. He has presented at the state and national level on the topics of EBP, reflective practice, and occupation-based practice in hand therapy. | /wp-content/uploads/2017/05/Krueger-Robert-Photo-2021-201x300.jpg | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Roberto López-Rosado, DPT, MSPT, MA | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Adjunct Faculty | Roberto earned a Bachelors degree in Biology from the University of Puerto Rico in 1993 and a Masters degree in Anatomy in 1997 from the Universidad Central del Caribe, in his native Puerto Rico. He earned a Masters in Physical Therapy from Florida Gulf Coast University and a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from The Sage Colleges, New York. Currently, he teaches anatomy and clinical sciences for Northwestern University’s DPT Program, the School of Professional Studies, and Northwestern University Prosthetics and Orthotics Center. He also conducts with clinical research focusing on balance strategies and fall prevention in stroke survivors. Roberto has worked as a clinician in the outpatient setting, as well as acute care and home health. He is a member of the American Association of Anatomists, the American Physical Therapy Association and the Co- Chair of the Neurologic Physical Therapy Academy Online Education Committee. | /images/faculty/lopez-rosado-robert.jpg | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Robin Jewett, DMSc, PA-C | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Faculty | Robin Jewett has been a licensed physician assistant for seventeen years. After graduating with her bachelor’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University, she attended Trevecca Nazarene University for her master’s degree, and Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions for her doctoral studies. Robin has a wide variety clinical experience, including dermatology, gastroenterology, allergy and ENT, occupational medicine, physical medicine and rehabilitation, psychiatry, and internal medicine/geriatrics. Her academic experience includes roles as principal faculty, didactic education director, clinical coordinator, and program director in four physician assistant programs prior to joining Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. She is a Certified Dementia Practitioner, Certified Geriatric Professional, and has earned her Master Psychopharmacology Certificate. Her volunteer work includes providing primary care at Salem Free Clinics and committee involvement for State Plan for Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias in Oregon. Clinically, she is working in several roles to provide primary and psychiatric care to Oregon residents who have special needs and limited access to care. When she is not working, you’ll find her with her husband Ken and their two children planning or engaging in their next family adventure. | /wp-content/uploads/2022/06/Robin-Jewett.jpg | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Faculty | |||
| Ronald Honey, OTD, OTR/L, ATP | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) | Faculty | Dr. Ronald Honey holds degrees from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMUoHP) (OTD), and the University of Southern California (BS). Dr. Honey is a member of Phi Theta Epsilon and is sanctioned by Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of Northern America (RESNA) as an Assistive Technology Professional (ATP). Prior to starting at RMUoHP, Dr. Honey spent 28 years with Intermountain Health Care (IHC) in a trauma 1 hospital with expertise in many clinical settings and specializing in neurological rehabilitation. Dr. Honey founded and established Global Therapies, a local mobility, and seating evaluation company. Dr. Honey has been involved in many humanitarian development projects around the world. He has assisted in the development and implementation of Healing Hands for Haiti, a rehabilitation organization that provides intervention for those in Haiti. Dr. Honey contributed his expertise in establishing a worldwide wheelchair initiative and has provided education around the world. His current stewardship in leading this wheelchair initiative is in Albania, Montenegro, and Kosovo. Dr. Honey has held various volunteer positions with the Utah Occupational Therapy Association (UOTA). | /images/faculty/nophoto.jpg | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) | Faculty | |||
| Sandra Combs, PhD, CCC-SLP | Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD) | Program Capstone Coordinator / Associate Professor | Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD) | Program Capstone Coordinator / Associate Professor | |||||
| Sandra Shigetomi-Toyama, C.Sc.D, CCC-SLP | Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD) | Program Director | Dr. Sandra Shigetomi-Toyama is the assistant program director of the SLPD program, and teaches the capstone courses at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. She has a private practice in Orange County, California. Previously, she participated on a cleft palate team and multidisciplinary early intervention assessment team. At California State University in Northridge, she earned a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Communicative Disorders. In 2016, she earned a Doctor of Clinical Science in Speech and Language Pathology at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in Provo, Utah. | /images/faculty/toyama-sandra2.jpg | Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD) | Program Director | |||
| Sandra E Groger, OTD, OTR/L | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) | Adjunct Faculty | Sandy began her career as a therapeutic recreation specialist working with mentally ill veterans in an outpatient program. She discovered occupational therapy and returned to school, receiving her BS in 1997 through Barry University, in Miami Shores, FL. She worked at the Bay Pines VA Medical Center with mental health, geri-psychiatry and outpatient rehabilitation until moving to Huntsville, AL in 2005. She currently owns and operates Sandra Groger Therapy Services, Inc., providing services to children with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental delays. She provides direct care and consultative services to children in an intensive behavioral clinic and school, and combines behavioral techniques with sensory based interventions. Sandy is certified in the Interactive Metronome and The Listening Program. She received her OTD in 2011 from RMUoHP. In addition to OT, Sandy is a certified fitness instructor and teaches kickboxing at a local wellness center. | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) | Adjunct Faculty | ||||
| Sarah Schoen, PhD, OTR | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) | Adjunct Faculty | Sarah A. Schoen, PhD, OTR, is Assistant Director of Research at the Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) Foundation and a clinical advisor to the Sensory Therapies And Research (STAR) Center in Greenwood Village, CO. Dr. Schoen is an Occupational Therapist with 30 years of clinical experience and a doctorate in Occupational Therapy from New York University (2001). She is also an Associate Professor at the Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. Dr. Schoen is nationally recognized for her research, educational programs and clinical expertise. In 1997, Dr. Schoen received the Recognition of Achievement Award from and the Virginia Scardina Award of Excellence in 2011. | /images/faculty/schoen-sarah.jpg | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Scott Dailey, PhD | Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Dailey earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology at Iowa State University, Master of Arts degree in communication disorders at the University of Northern Iowa. He practiced in schools in Illinois before working in a hospital. He has worked at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics for over 20 years. He earned his Ph.D in speech and hearing science at the University of Iowa in 2009. He is the Director of the Speech and Swallowing Clinic at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. Dr. Dailey’s clinical and research interests are in the areas of cleft and craniofacial disorders and pediatric feeding and swallowing disorders. He teaches graduate courses in Cleft and Craniofacial Disorders as well as Pediatric Feeding and Swallowing Disorders at the University of Iowa Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders. | /images/faculty/dailey-scott.jpg | Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Scott Heinerichs, EdD, LAT | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Scott Heinerichs is the Dean of the College of Health Sciences at West Chester University. Scott holds the rank of professor and previously served as the graduate professional athletic training program director. Administratively he has served as a faculty associate in the Provost’s office for five years. He held responsibility for institution wide faculty development and program-level student learning assessment. Dr. Heinerichs served one year as an Assistant Vice President for Academic Affairs and was responsible for regional accreditation reporting and strategic planning. Collectively, these opportunities have enabled him to work with various constituents to leverage existing technology and resources to better demonstrate institutional outcomes. His research interests are in the areas of outcomes-based education and clinical reasoning. He has presented and published manuscripts within the discipline of athletic training as well as higher education. He is an accreditation site visitor for the CAATE and MSCHE. Scott earned his Bachelor of Science from West Chester University, Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of South Carolina, and a Doctor of Education from Widener University. | /images/faculty/heinerichs-scott.jpg | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Shawn Faust, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC | | Faculty | Dr. Faust is a PMHNP in Tucson AZ | Faculty | |||||
| Sheena Lee, DMSc, MPAS, CAQ | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Sheena Lee has practiced clinically as a PA since 2008. She graduated with both her Bachelor of Science and Master of Physician Assistant Science from Saint Francis University. Her early clinical experience includes internal medicine and primary care specialties, but she eventually found her true passion in psychiatry. Dr. Lee was one of the first graduates of the RMUoHP DMSc Psychiatry track in 2020. She also holds a Certificate of Added Qualifications in Psychiatry. In clinical practice, Dr. Lee treats children, adolescents, and adults for a variety of psychiatric conditions. Dr. Lee has a love for learning and academia. She has contributed to the clinical training of multiple PA students, as well as nurse practitioner and medical students throughout her career. In addition, she has guest lectured at several PA programs about psychiatric topics. She is an active member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants and the Association of PAs in Psychiatry, as well as her local state PA organizations in New York and New Jersey. Dr. Lee believes PAs are strongly positioned to step in and meet the psychiatric and mental health needs of their communities. In her free time, Dr. Lee enjoys the outdoors, camping, hiking and fishing. However, her greatest joy in life is raising her three children. | /images/faculty/sheena-lee.jpeg | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Shelley Victor, EdD, CCC-SLP | Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Shelley Victor currently teaches supervision and ethics courses at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. Formerly, she was a Program Professor at Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. She has worked at Nova over 26 years teaching courses in Preschool Language Disorders, Research Methods, Cognitive Communication Disorders, Pediatric Motor Speech Disorders, Supervision, and Professional Issues. She is active at the state and national level. She was chair of ASHA’s Governmental Regulations and Public Policy Board and coordinator of SIG 11: Administration and Supervision. She currently serves as a member of ASHA’s Financial Planning Board. She became an ASHA Fellow in 2000 and received the Honors of the Florida Association of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists in 2002. | /images/faculty/victor-shelley.jpg | Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Sherry Martin, DHSc, PA-C, CAQ in Psychiatry, DFAAPA | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr Martin is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine InterService PA Program while active duty United States Air Force, 1991-1993. Dr Martin is a graduate of the University of Nebraska PA Studies, 2002, and a graduate of Nova Southeastern Doctor of Health Science Program, 2007. She was awarded the inaugural Certificate of Added Qualification in Psychiatry, 2011. Dr Martin is the founding Program Director of the Postgraduate PA Mental Health Residency program in the Veterans Health Administration. Dr Martin has 27 years of clinical experience overall and the last 20 years in psychiatry. She has been teaching PAs and interprofessional healthcare students for 10 years. Dr. Martin is a Distinguished Fellow of the American Academy of PAs. She enjoys birding and international travel. | /wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Sherry-Martin-photo-1.jpg= width=200 height | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Shilpa Gajarawala, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Shilpa Gajarawala brings to the University of Rocky Mountain DMSc program many years of clinical, teaching, and administrative experience. Dr. Gajarawala holds a Doctor of Medical Science from the University of Lynchburg, Lynchburg, Virginia. She graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. In 1995, she started her physician assistant studies in beautiful upstate New York at the Albany Medical College PA Program. She then completed a Master of Science in PA Studies from the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Dr. Gajarawala has been a practicing surgical physician assistant since 1997. She has worked clinically in medical and surgical gynecology, general surgery and vascular surgery. She has a strong interest in women’s health, specifically urogynecology and gynecologic oncology. In addition to her clinical practice, she has championed both patient education and quality improvement projects. She has mentored residents, physician assistant, nurse practitioner and medical students. She has collaborated with faculty and colleagues and co-authored publications, including a book chapter. In her spare time, Dr. Gajarawala enjoys spending time in her art studio. Free time away from the easel is spent with her husband, Nik and their two sons, Nikhil and Sajan. | /images/faculty/gajarawala-shilpa.jpg | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Sonia Paquette, OTD, OTR/L, CPE, ABVE-D | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD), Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (tDPT) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Paquette trained in occupational therapy both at the bachelors and doctoral level (McGill University '87, Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions, '07) and as an ergonomist (Industrial engineering school, Polytechnical Institute of Montreal, '93). She also completed a post-masters certificate in forensic vocational rehabilitation in 2010 (Minnesota State University, Mankato). Over the course of her career, she worked primarily in return to work/stay at work rehabilitation in private practice and as an expert witness for lawyers. She presented in numerous national and international conferences to rehabilitation professionals, engineers, lawyers and physicians on return-to-work and ergonomics. In the last 10 years, she published 3 peer-reviewed articles and 4 professional handbook chapters. She has been teaching with RMUoHP since 2010 in the post-professional doctorate programs in occupational therapy and physical therapy. She won the 2014 Outstanding Alumnae Award by RMUoHP. She currently works as an Ergonomics Program Manager for the Permanente Medical Group of Kaiser Permanente in the Mid-Atlantic States and teaches at RMU. | /images/faculty/paquette-sonia.jpg | Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD), Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (tDPT) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Stacey Pfenning, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, FAANP | Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) (Post-Master’s) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Stacey Pfenning, a Family Nurse Practitioner since 2002, joined RMUoHP as Associate Professor in 2013. Dr. Pfenning has experience in clinical practice, academia, regulation, and health policy. Her clinical background involves a variety of setting including emergency & trauma, rural critical access hospitals, primary care clinics, private practice, and correctional facilities. Dr. Pfenning is the North Dakota Executive Director for the Board of Nursing and is the ND commissioner for the Nurse Licensure and APRN Licensure Compacts. Dr. Pfenning serves leadership roles for both nurse licensure compacts and for several local and national committees focused on nursing practice, regulation, education, and policy. Dr. Pfenning was inducted as an American Association of Nurse Practitioner Fellow in 2017. Dr. Pfenning earned her Master’s in Nursing degree from University of Mary, Bismarck, ND in 2002 and completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in 2008. | /images/faculty/pfenning-stacey.jpg | Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) (Post-Master’s) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Steven G. Wilkinson, PT, PhD | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Program Director & Chair | Dr. Steven Wilkinson graduated from the Columbia University’s College of Physicians and Surgeons with a Master of Science degree in Physical Therapy in 1998. He attended the University of Utah where he earned a Master of Science degree in Medical Informatics in 2003 and in 2007 earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Informatics. He has spent most of his clinical career in the outpatient, orthopedic setting. Before joining the faculty at Rocky Mountain University, he was senior manager of Adult Rehabilitation at St Luke’s Health System in Boise, ID. Prior to that he was a full-time faculty member of Physical Therapy at Rockhurst University in Kansas City, MO. Dr Wilkinson was the former President of the Technology in Physical Therapy Special Interest Group of the American Physical Therapy Association. His research interests include informatics in physical therapy, technology, and standardization. When not at work, he enjoys spending time with his wife, two daughters, and twin sons cooking, gardening, traveling, singing, and just enjoying time together. | /images/faculty/wilkinson-steven.jpg | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Program Director | Chair | ||
| Susan Blackburn, PhD, FAAN | Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (tDPT) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Blackburn received her BSN from the University of Connecticut and MN and PhD from the University of Washington. She is currently a Professor Emeritus in the School of Nursing at the University of Washington in Seattle where she directed the Neonatal Nurse Practitioner and Neonatal and Perinatal Clinical Nurse Specialist Programs. Her teaching and research focuses on care of high-risk infants and their families. She has taught courses on perinatal, neonatal and pediatric physiology, human embryology, genetics, neonatal pharmacology and neonatal nursing. She is a Fellow of the American Academy of Nursing, and has served as member of the editorial board and columnist for the Journal of Perinatal and Neonatal Nursing, Neonatal Intensive Care Nursing Test Committee Lead for the National Certification Corporation and member of the March of Dimes Nurse Advisory Council. She is the recipient of multiple awards and honors including the National Association of Neonatal Nurses Distinguished Leader in Neonatal Nursing Award and has published and lectured nationally and internationally on a wide range of neonatal topics. Among her publications is the book Maternal, Fetal and Neonatal Physiology: A Clinical Perspective, currently in its fifth edition. | Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (tDPT) | Adjunct Faculty | ||||
| Thomas Cappaert, PhD, ATC, CSCS | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Concentration Track Director | Dr. Cappaert is currently a Senior Faculty member of the Ph.D. in Health Sciences program, Associate Director of the Office of Research & Sponsored Projects, and Professor in Biostatistics at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in Provo, Utah. He received his Ph.D. from the University of Toledo and teaches Biostatistics to doctoral students in various post-professional programs and areas of study. He also teaches the Dissertation Preparation and Dissertation Phase courses at RMUoHP. Dr. Cappaert serves on the Editorial Board of the Athletic Training Education Journal, the Journal of College Science Teaching, and is a manuscript reviewer for several other journals in the health sciences. He is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and an ACSM Certified Exercise Specialist. Research interests include environmental cold injury and techniques to improve critical evaluation of research results in health care professionals. | /images/faculty/cappaert-tom.jpg | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences | Concentration Track Director | |||
| Tim McCreary, DMSc, MMS, PA-C, CAQ-PSY | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. McCreary began his medical journey as a US Army medic in 1999 and now serves as a Commander with the United States Public Health Service where he is stationed in North Eastern Utah. He provides ambulatory psychiatric care for thousands of Native Americans living in Utah and dedicated leadership and advocacy for the PA profession in the state of Utah and across the country. Over the past decade he has served in a number of significant roles in the PA profession, he is a past president of the Public Health Service Academy of Physician Assistants (PHSAPA), and Utah Academy of Physician Assistants (UAPA). As the IHS National PA recruiter, he recognized the changing landscape in the healthcare marketplace and was an early and passionate advocate for optimal team practice. He has written extensively on the vital role PAs fill in the US healthcare system and has been recognized for his humanitarian efforts abroad and his tireless personal dedication to underserved and vulnerable communities on America’s Indian Reservations. His work in the AAPA House of Delegates aided in the passage of Optimal Team Practice (OTP), and he was the lead author in a recently “revised” PA scope of practice policy that allows Indian Health Service PAs full practice authority as vital members of the healthcare provider team. As President of the UAPA he spearheaded a radical modernization of the Utah PA practice act (allowing direct billing for PAs, granting PA responsibility for the care they provide, the ability of experienced PAs to practice independently) and the Utah Mental health practice act (introducing PAs into the act for the first time, and establishing qualifications for PA independent practice as mental healthcare providers). He is a dedicated PA educator serving as a clinical instructor for dozens of PAs over many years and presently works as an adjunct clinical faculty member for PA training from five different states. Over his career, he has presented and written on a variety of topics in mental health, public health, and primary care. He believes in the capacity of PAs to provide expert mental health services as integrated behavioral health specialists in primary care, as well as mental health providers on in-patient psychiatric medicine teams. He developed the world's first DSMc psychiatry track at Rocky Mountain University in 2019 and continues to serve as the Psychiatry track director where he has contributed to and advised curricular content for all 5 new doctoral courses, engaged instructors, leads, and supports a multi-disciplinary faculty. He is the proud father of 3 children and is married to his best friend Wendy. When he is not in the clinic, advocating for the profession, hanging out with his cool wife and children, he can be found hiking or riding in the mountains near his home in Ashley Valley. | /images/faculty/mccreary-tim2.jpg | Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Tim Stevenson, PT, DPT, OCS | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Co-Director of Clinical Education | Tim Stevenson is a Physical Therapist with specialty in orthopedic conditions. He joined the faculty of the entry level DPT program in July. He earned his doctor of physical therapy degree (DPT) from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in 2013 and became a board certified orthopedic clinical specialist (OCS) in 2015 after completing orthopedic residency through the Ola Grimsby Institute. He obtained in his undergraduate degree from Brigham Young University – Idaho (BYUI) in Horticulture. Tim lived and practiced in Alaska for 4 years. He enjoys the outdoors, playing competitive tennis and golfing as much as possible. He also enjoys spending time with his wife and 3 children. | /images/faculty/stevenson-tim.jpg | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Co-Director of Clinical Education | |||
| Timothy Legg, PhD, PsyD, MSN, MPA, GNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, CNE | College of Nursing | Faculty | Areas of Interest and Expertise Addictive Disorders, Psychopharmacology, Psychoanalysis, Psychoneuroimmunology, Psychological Trauma, Geropsychology Bio Dr. Legg has over 30 years of experience in the provision of mental health care and services to individuals across a variety of settings, including personal care facilities, nursing homes, inpatient psychiatric units, children and adults with neurodevelopmental disorders, outpatient community mental health, dual-diagnosis, intensive outpatient, inpatient detox, correctional facilities, and New York State Comprehensive Psychiatry Emergency Programs (CPEP). He has held various positions, including staff nurse, psychiatric nurse practitioner, psychotherapist, drug and alcohol counselor, clinical supervisor, clinic director, and clinical consultant. Dr. Legg is both a licensed psychologist and a licensed/board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner in private practice in the upstate New York & Northeast Pennsylvania areas. He provides a combination of psychotherapy and medication management services to individuals who struggle with psychiatric/mental health challenges. Dr. Legg also offers medication-assisted treatment for individuals who struggle with addictive disorders and telepsychology services for individuals who live in remote areas of upstate New York who otherwise would be unable to access psychological care and services. Dr. Legg currently serves as a member of the editorial board for The Carlat Addiction Treatment Report, a peer-reviewed publication for addictions professionals, and is also a member of the editorial review board for the behavioral health section of the American Journal of Recreation Therapy. In addition, he maintains active membership in the American Psychological Association (APA), and several of its divisions, including Division 39, the Society for Psychoanalysis and Psychoanalytic Psychology, Division 56, the Division of Trauma Psychology, Division 50, the Society of Addiction Psychology, and Division 12, the Society of Clinical Psychology, Section II: Clinical Geropsychology. In addition to his formal academic training, Dr. Legg has completed training in rational emotive behavioral therapy (REBT) at the Albert Ellis Institute, New York, and has earned the designation of master psychopharmacologist through the Neuroscience Education Institute, Carlsbad, California, as well as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) training through the EMDR Institute, Watsonville, CA. He is also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) through the International Association of Trauma Professionals. In addition, he is certified as a Master Addictions Counselor (MAC) through the National Certification Commission for Addiction Professionals. Dr. Legg’s research has focused on the use of psychoanalysis as a treatment for addictive disorders. He has published on a variety of topics in the area of mental health & gerontology, including neurocognitive disorders, health promotion in old age, psychopharmacology in the geriatric population, and drugs of abuse. Dr. Legg enjoys hiking, forest exploration, weight training, and cooking in his spare time. Educational Background Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences Research & Education -- Touro College, New York, NY Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) in Clinical Psychology -- California Southern University, Irvine, CA Psychoanalytic Training -- Philadelphia School of Psychoanalysis, Philadelphia, PA Master of Science (MS) in Gerontological Nursing, Nursing Education – State University of New York, Binghamton, NY Advanced Certificate, Gerontological Nurse Practitioner (GNP) – State University of New York, Binghamton, NY Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study, Family Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (FPMHNP) -- State University of New York, Binghamton, NY Master of Sciences (MS) in Psychology -- Kaplan University, Chicago, IL Master of Public Administration (MPA) -- Walden University, Minneapolis, MN Bachelor of Science (BS) -- Wilkes University, Pennsylvania | College of Nursing | Faculty | ||||
| Trever J. Ball, PhD, MPH, MS | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences, Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD) | Adjunct Faculty | Ball, Trever Photo 2020 Dr. Ball instructs courses for RMU related to Healthcare Delivery, Biostatistics Interpretation, Research Methods, & Healthcare Policy & Economics. Dr. Ball disseminates research that advances value-based health care. He is the Director of Clinical Research & Data Quality for Population Health at Northwell Health, Great Neck, NY. Northwell Health is the state of New York’s largest healthcare system and serves the most diverse population of patients in the United States. In this role Dr. Ball directs interdisciplinary research for clinical & cost outcomes of population health management programs, including chronic disease prevention. Dr. Ball evaluates population health care by both financial & health risks for patients, hospital systems, & payers/insurers. This includes investigating avoidable healthcare costs of unhealthful behaviors such as physical inactivity. He serves on the national Clinical Practice Committee for the Exercise is Medicine® initiative of the American College of Sports Medicine. | /wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Ball-Trever-Photo-2020-use-this.jpg | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences, Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Tye Jensen, MPAS, PA-C | Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) | Faculty | /wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Tye-Jensen.jpg | Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) | Faculty | ||||
| Tyler Luszeck, PT, DPT | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Faculty | Dr. Tyler Luszeck is married to Mandy Luszeck and is a proud father of three boys. He has been a full-time Assistant Professor at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMU) since August of 2021. He currently sees neuro patients at the Community Rehabilitation Clinic. He moved to Utah in May of 2020 and began working at Jordan Valley Medical Center primarily in outpatient, but also worked in Acute Care and Acute Rehab. Before the move to Utah, he worked in Mesa, Arizona, for Encompass Health in their Outpatient Neuro department, treating a wide variety of diagnoses such as Parkinson’s Disease, limb loss, CVA’s, TBI’s, SCI’s, and general orthopedic impairments. Dr. Luszeck completed a Neurological Residency Program through AT Stills University in 2017 and obtained board certification in Neurological Physical Therapy in 2020. He received his Bachelor of Science degree from Brigham Young University – Hawaii in 2011 and his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Franklin Pierce University in 2015. | /wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Tyler-Luszeck_200.jpg | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Faculty | |||
| Tyler Sommer, MPAS, PA-C | Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) | Faculty | Tyler Sommer is a Certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) with experience in neurosurgery, spine surgery, emergency medicine, and family medicine. He received a bachelor’s degree in neuroscience from Brigham Young University (BYU). He also earned a Master of Physician Assistant Studies degree from AT Still University of Health Sciences in Mesa, Arizona. He practiced primarily with Mayo Clinic Health System in Minnesota before joining Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in 2015 as one of the founding faculty members in the PA program. During his time at RMUoHP, Tyler has served as the Director of Didactic Education, Assistant Program Director, and currently works as the Academic Director and Associate Program Director. In addition to his work with the PA program, he is also working towards completion of a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Health Science, with a concentration in Health Promotion and Wellness. | /images/faculty/sommer-tyler.jpg | Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) | Faculty | |||
| Venita Lovelace-Chandler, PT, PhD, PCS | Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (tDPT) | Adjunct Faculty | Dr. Lovelace-Chandler has been an educator in pediatric topics for over 40 years to professional and post-professional physical therapy students and practitioners. She has over 45 years of experience in pediatrics, has recertified as a specialist two times, and still provides consultations. She taught Advanced Clinical Practice courses in pediatrics for the APTA, has published articles and book chapters on pediatrics and has numerous presentations and workshops on pediatrics. She was named as the recipient of the 2011 Linda Crane Memorial Lecture awarded by the Pediatrics, Cardiopulmonary and Education Sections, won the Service Award in 2003 for 30 years of service to the Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy, was the Featured speaker at Opening Ceremonies of the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties at CSM in 1991, won the Outstanding Service Award of the Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy in 2008 as a pediatric expert, and was the pediatric content expert for the APTA’s Move Forward public site for 4 years. She has served in APTA and TPTA elected offices, and she won the TPTA President’s Award for Outstanding Service in 2016 and the APTA’s Lucy Blair Service Award in 2017. She holds a BS in PT from Southwestern Medical School (1971), an MA in college teaching from the University of North Carolina (1976), and a PhD in Academic Administration/Health Education from Texas A&M University (1989). She was Vice-Chair and Professor, Department of Physical Therapy, UNT Health Science Center until 2014 and continues to serve as adjunct faculty. She served as Chairperson for the University of Central Arkansas and Chapman University programs in physical therapy and as Associate Director in the School of Physical Therapy at Texas Woman’s University before joining UNTHSC. | Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy (tDPT) | Adjunct Faculty | ||||
| Verl T. Pope, ED.D., LPC, CMHC, NCC, CCMHC, ACS | Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MHC) | Program Director | Dr. Verl T. Pope is a Professor of Counseling and the founding Program Director for the new counseling programs at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. He has extensive experience in counseling program development and counseling accreditation. He served as the Counseling Program Chair for the Utah Campus of the University of Phoenix. Prior to that, he was a Professor of Counseling and Chair of the Department of Counseling, Social Work and Leadership at Northern Kentucky University. Dr. Pope was also a professor and taught counseling at Southeast Missouri State University. Dr. Pope holds a doctorate in Counselor Education and Counseling from Idaho State University. He has worked in several agencies, both public and private. He has consulted with the Departments of Probation and Parole, juvenile offices, schools, and courts on assessment and counseling issues. Further, Dr. Pope consults with other agencies and universities on accreditation issues. He is a licensed professional counselor in Utah (CMHC), and Missouri (LPC). He is nationally certified as a counselor (NCC), a mental health counselor (CCMHC), and a clinical supervisor (ACS). He has served or currently serves on several state and national committees, including seven years on the Missouri State Committee for Professional Counselors. He maintains a number of professional memberships, has published in professional venues, and has given many presentations from local and state, to national and international levels. | /images/faculty/pope-verl.jpg | Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MHC) | Program Director | |||
| Viet Le, PA-C | Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) | Faculty | Viet obtained a BS in Exercise Science in 2001 from the University of Utah and worked as the Head Athletic Trainer/Therapist for Riverton High School before obtaining a Master’s Degree as a Physician Assistant in 2004 from the University of Utah School of Medicine. He started his PA career in Cardiology working with a 12 physician group, supporting sub-specialty areas of electrophysiology, interventional cardiology, peripheral-vascular cardiology, non-invasive cardiac imaging, and general cardiology. He then worked in the field of occupational and disability medicine for 7 years with the SLCVAMC before returning to cardiology. Viet joined Intermountain Heart Institute Cardiology Research in 2012, where he practices as a Cardiology Clinical Research Scientist/PA. His primary focus is cardiovascular research, where he works directly with Cardiovascular physicians, geneticists, epidemiologists, statisticians, study coordinators, and study patients, as well as industry and academic partners and collaborators from other national centers. Viet devotes a portion of his time directly seeing patients in clinic and all of his time collaborating with cardiologists across multiple sub-specialties on a vast array of Cardiovascular studies. He was fortunate to be recruited to join the RMUOHP PA team, first as adjunct faculty in 2015 and became an assistant professor in 2017 where he is Co-Course Director with Mr. Tyler Sommers over the Cardiology Didactic section. He currently serves as the Co-Chair of the American College of Cardiology Cardiovascular Team Section PA Committee, Board Member for the Association of PAs in Cardiology, Member of the Dues Task Force for the National Lipid Association, and is also a member of the American Heart Association as well as the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology. | /images/faculty/le-viet.jpg | Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) | Faculty | |||
| Wendy Chase, MA, CCC-SLP | Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) | Faculty | Wendy Chase is a speech-language pathologist who joined RMUOHP in July 2017 in the position of Clinic Director. Ms. Chase earned her BS at Central Michigan University and her MA at Northwestern University. She has 29 years of experience in clinical positions treating clients from infancy through geriatrics and in locations from home care to hospitals. Ms. Chase was most recently employed at the Director of Clinical Education at the University of Connecticut where her focus was on inter-professional education and practice, communication and voice treatment with transgender or gender fluid clients, and assessment of swallowing in clients with ventilator dependency. Her classroom teaching has focused on dysphagia and clinical methods. Ms. Chase believes that critical thinking and evidence influenced practice are hallmarks of an excellent speech-language pathologist and strives to support student acquisition of these core skills through quality clinical education. | /images/faculty/chase-wendy.jpg | Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology (MS-SLP) | Faculty | |||
| Wendy St. James, Ph.D. | Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MHC) | Adjunct Faculty | I have been teaching Utah K-12 Comprehensive Guidance Curriculum for the past 20 years. For the last four years, I have taught School Counseling classes in the University of Phoenix Master’s program. I love teaching kids and adults alike. My practical experience as a school counselor at the elementary, middle, and high school levels has given my graduate students the opportunity to learn about the uniqueness of counseling at each grade level. I believe adults construct knowledge from their own experiences, and I am more of a guide on their journey than a “sage on the stage.” My doctoral thesis was called “Teachers’ perspectives of implementing an advisory curriculum at an urban middle school.” I enjoy research about school change, and how schools reflect culture and society. | /images/faculty/stjames-wendy.jpg | Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MHC) | Adjunct Faculty | |||
| Will Sykes, PT, DPT | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Co-Director of Clinical Education | Will Sykes, DPT was born and raised in the bay area just south of Oakland in California. He moved to Arizona when he was in High School and did as many sports as he could throughout his teenage years (this is what got him into physical therapy). Will went to BYU and graduated in 2008 with a BS in Exercises Science with a minor in Coaching and Physical Education. While at BYU, he met and married his wife, Bri, and together they have 3 kids: Emerson, Ensley, and Beckett. Will was in the first cohort for the DPT program here at RMUoHP and graduated in 2012. Will spends most of his time working as the Assistant Director of Clinical Education and also teaches professionalism and kinesiology. He has worked in a skilled nursing facility, IP rehab, and most recently at Utah Valley Hospital in their Outpatient Sports/Orthopedic clinic. He started working full time at Rocky Mountain University in August 2017. | /images/faculty/sykes-will.jpg | Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) | Co-Director of Clinical Education |