The mission of Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions is to educate current and future healthcare professionals for outcomes-oriented, evidence-based practice. The University demonstrates mission fulfillment through the quality of its education and success of its students in academic programs that develop leaders skilled in clinical inquiry and prepared to effect healthcare change.
Dear graduates, Congratulations!
Today marks the culmination of years of effort, sacrifice, resilience, and growth. You’ve earned this moment, and we are proud to celebrate it with you. The purpose of Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMU) can be summed up in five simple, yet powerful words—to improve the human condition.
We do this by advancing healthcare knowledge and excellence, yes—but more than that, we do it by choosing to love and lift those around us. Especially those in need.
These words—love and lift—are more than a phrase. They are an ethic, a mindset, and a way of being. They remind us that in every setting—a clinic, a hospital, a classroom, a home—you carry more than a degree. You carry compassion, empathy, and the ability to make someone’s life a little better.
To love and lift means seeing people for who they are, meeting them where they are, listening with humility, and serving with both expertise and heart. It means lifting others not only through your professional knowledge, but through your human kindness.
You leave here not only as healthcare professionals—but as compassionate and dedicated leaders who will make a difference, both in your careers and in your communities.
Go forward and know that the good you do—whether seen or unseen—matters more than you may ever know.
We can’t wait to see the impact you’ll make!
Sincerely,
PRESIDENT CAMERON K. MARTIN, P h D University President & CEO
Dr. Cameron K. Martin
University President & CEO
Pomp and Circumstance by Sir Edward Elgar (Please stand)
Administration & Board of Trustees
Official Guests & Faculty
College of Health Sciences
Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences Candidates
Master of Science in Health Science Candidates
Doctor of Nursing Practice Candidates
Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner Candidates
Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner/Emergency Nurse Practitioner Candidates
Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner/Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Candidates
Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Candidates
Emergency Nurse Practitioner Certificate Candidates
Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate Candidates
Family Nurse Practitioner/Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate Candidates
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate Candidates
Doctor of Medical Science Candidates
Master of Medical Science (Master of Physician Assistant Studies) Candidates
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Candidates
Master of Science in School Counseling Candidates
Clinical Mental Health Counseling Certificate Candidates
College of Rehabilitation Sciences
Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology Candidates
Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology Candidates
Doctor of Occupational Therapy Candidates
Transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy, Pediatric Science Candidates
POSTING OF THE COLORS
NATIONAL ANTHEM
Ms. Christa George Master of Medical Science Candidate
INVOCATION & REFLECTION
Mr. Isaiah Garrett Parry Master of Medical Science Candidate
PRESIDENT’S WELCOME
Dr. Cameron K. Martin University President & CEO
PRESENTATION OF ALUMNI AND STUDENT AWARDS
Presented by Dr. Malissa Martin
Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs & Provost
EARLY CAREER ALUMNI AWARD RECIPIENT
Dr. Kirsten Thornhill Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences Alumna, 2024
OUTSTANDING ALUMNI AWARD RECIPIENT
Dr. Nick Rainey Doctor of Physical Therapy Alumnus, 2013
RICHARD P. NIELSEN STUDENT SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENTS
Dr. Megan Gold Doctor of Physical Therapy Graduate
Ms. Juliet Bradford Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology Candidate
GRADUATE SPEAKER
Ms. Juliet Bradford Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology Candidate
COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS
Mr. Curtis Bennett
Cultivator of Culture, Transformational Leader, Advocate for Kindness
READING OF NAMES AND DEGREES
Mr. Stephen Canaan Assistant Registrar
Ms. Gretel Cosman Registrar
Dr. Michael Skurja, Jr. Co-founder, RMU and Chair, RMU Board of Trustees
ALUMNI WELCOME
Dr. Glory Dioh-Esona President, RMU Alumni Association Board
CEREMONY CONCLUSION
Dr. Cameron K. Martin University President & CEO
RECESSIONAL OF THE GRADUATES
(Please stand)
Participation in the Commencement Ceremony does not indicate degree completion. Upon degree completion, the Registrar’s Office will post the degree on the academic transcript and graduates will receive an official RMU diploma.
The hooding portion of the Commencement Ceremony dates back to the 12th and 13th centuries and signifies special recognition of master’s and doctoral degree candidates. Faculty members place the hood over the heads of the graduates, recognizing their success in completing the program and symbolically welcoming them as fellow scholars. The hood identifies the owner’s academic institution, degree, and field of study through the length and the colors of the lining and binding. Each graduate’s field of study is designated by its corresponding color as listed below.
Apricot
• Doctor of Nursing Practice
• Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner
• Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner/Emergency Nurse Practitioner
• Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner/Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Dark Blue
• Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences
Golden Yellow
• Master of Science in Health Science
Kelly Green
• Doctor of Medical Science
• Master of Medical Science
• Master of Physician Assistant Studies
Light Blue
• Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• Master of Science in School Counseling
Peacock/Teal
• Doctor of Physical Therapy
Silver
• Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology
• Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology
Slate Blue
• Doctor of Occupational Therapy
OTHER REGALiA
Apricot Stole
• Emergency Nurse Practitioner Certificate
• Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Light Blue Stole
• Clinical Mental Health Counseling Certificate
• School Counseling Certificate
Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions would like to recognize our graduates who are veterans. As members of the military, these students have demonstrated their commitment to the RMU core values of collaboration, authenticity, trustworthiness, inclusiveness, and service, especially that of selfless service. In addition to what these graduates will do in the future as health professionals, they have already given service to our nation, our state, and our community. Military veterans received a commemorative red, white, and blue cord to be worn at this commencement ceremony, signifying the University’s gratitude for their service and sacrifice.
Cultivator of Culture, Transformational Leader, Advocate for Kindness
Curtis Bennett is a visionary leader with over 30 years of experience transforming organizations, empowering individuals, and building meaningful community impact across industries, from luxury retail and technology to global nonprofit work.
After graduating from the Gemological Institute of America, Curtis launched his career in luxury retail, including as Vice President of Retail Operations for O.C. Tanner, where he led a successful turnaround, taking the company from financial losses to profitability through cultural change and operational excellence. He later served as CEO of Eminent Technical Solution, where he helped secure major government contracts to bring high-speed internet to underserved rural communities in the western United States, closing the digital divide and expanding opportunity and connectivity.
Curtis has also dedicated much of his life to mission-driven work, applying his business acumen to nonprofit organizations such as Cause for Hope, Mentors International, and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, strengthening global programs focused on education, self-reliance, and humanitarian outreach.
Curtis is the former executive director and current board advisor of One Kind Act a Day, a nationwide movement committed to inspiring intentional acts of kindness and cultivating a culture of compassion. His leadership with the organization fused strategic vision with heartfelt service, always grounded in the belief that kindness holds the power to transform individuals, communities, and entire systems. Through his work, Curtis has come to believe deeply that kindness is not only teachable—it’s essential. It can be practiced anywhere, and it belongs everywhere.
Curtis and his wife of 43 years, Sheri, are the proud parents of five children and grandparents to 19 grandchildren. His life’s work is centered on purpose, people, and the power of doing good.
MS. JULIET BRADFORD
Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology Candidate
The Richard P. Nielsen Student Service Award is the highest honor an RMU student may receive for distinguished service to the University, community, and/or their profession.
Juliet Bradford is graduating from RMU’s Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology (SLPD) program and is a 2025 recipient of the Richard P. Nielsen Student Service Award. With more than 30 years of experience as a speech-language pathologist, Juliet has spent her career not only advancing clinical care but also mentoring the next generation of professionals, particularly minority women entering the field. Her journey is one of service, vision, and resilience—built on a belief that meaningful change happens when we lift others as we climb.
In 2015, Juliet founded S.I.S.T.A.s (Sisters in Speech Therapy and Audiology), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to supporting minority women in the fields of speech-language pathology and audiology. Under her leadership, S.I.S.T.A.s has grown into a national and international movement with over 5,400 members, multiple professional and collegiate chapters, and a mentorship initiative that connects experienced clinicians with students and early-career professionals. Through programs focused on recruitment, retention, scholarship, and community service, Juliet has helped create a powerful platform for equity, representation, and belonging in healthcare.
Beyond her nonprofit work, Juliet is an educator, advocate, and community leader. She has provided speech-language services across educational and healthcare settings, delivered professional development for community partners, and served as a speaker and panelist at national conferences and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion forums. In Fall 2025, she will launch SPARK, a groundbreaking high school pipeline program designed to introduce minority students to the fields of speechlanguage pathology and audiology. Juliet’s impact continues to echo far beyond the classroom and clinic, fueled by her unwavering commitment to empowering others and serving with purpose.
DR. MEGAN E. GOLD
Doctor of Physical Therapy Graduate 2025
The Richard P. Nielsen Student Service Award is the highest honor an RMU student may receive for distinguished service to the University, community, and/or their profession.
Megan Gold is a graduate of RMU’s Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program and a 2025 recipient of the Richard P. Nielsen Student Service Award. Known for her academic excellence, research leadership, and commitment to service, Megan has distinguished herself throughout her time at RMU as a driven and compassionate healthcare professional. She served as chair of the Student Senate and vice president of her DPT cohort, and has played a vital role in supporting student initiatives, promoting collaboration, and advocating for the student body.
Megan’s passion for advancing pelvic health has guided her research and clinical experiences. She has worked closely with faculty as a research assistant at both the Multiple Sclerosis Center and in RMU’s pelvic health initiatives, helping lead projects that resulted in multiple peer-reviewed publications, national presentations, and three top research awards—Best Abstract at the 2024 American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Utah Fall Conference, Best Research Poster at the 2025 APTA Combined Sections Meeting, and Top Research Poster at the 2025 Mountain West Research Summit. Her innovative work focuses on developing outcome measures to improve treatment for postpartum urinary incontinence and advancing evidence-based clinical care. Megan has also completed immersive pelvic health clinical rotations and EMG training, further demonstrating her dedication to deepening clinical expertise.
She has volunteered extensively at RMU’s Physical Therapy Clinic and the Multiple Sclerosis Physical Therapy and Wellness Center, consistently exemplifying patient-centered care.
Megan is currently completing her residency with EMG Solutions, with the goal of becoming a board-certified clinical electrophysiologic physical therapist.
Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences, 2024
Since graduating with her PhD in Health Sciences from RMU in 2024, Dr. Thornhill has focused on expanding her professional impact through work that integrates community, wellness, healthcare research, and career services. She serves as a regulatory researcher on the Women and Newborn Research team at Intermountain Medical Center, where she specializes in maternal fetal medicine healthcare research.
In early 2025, she partnered in launching Alma.me, an international consulting firm that supports PhDs in biomedical and health science fields as they transition into academic and non-academic careers.
Additionally, in February 2025, Dr. Thornhill joined Norkova Health, a nonprofit in Salt Lake City. As lead facilitator, she designs and leads accessible wellness events rooted in community wellness, mental health equity, and culturally responsive practices. Across all areas of her work, she is driven by a deep passion for advancing health equity, creating supportive and inclusive spaces, and empowering individuals to thrive in both health and career pathways.
Doctor of Physical Therapy, 2013
Nick Rainey, DPT, is board certified in orthopaedic and temporomandibular physical therapy, and is a fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic and Manual Physical Therapists. He has obtained further training in pelvic health. Dr. Rainey practices in his private practices of Rainey Pain & Performance, Sierra Vista Headache and TMJ Specialists, and Access Therapy— all in Sierra Vista, Arizona. He enjoys teaching students, residents, and fellows-in-training. He also teaches a variety of continuing education courses and is an adjunct faculty at Tufts University-Phoenix. He is passionate about progressing the profession one provider at a time.
Associate Professor, Doctor of Physical Therapy Program
This award is the highest honor designated for an active faculty member of RMU and recognizes their strong history of exceptional and dedicated teaching at our institution.
Rhodri Purcell, PT, MPT, EdD, OCS, CSCS, has been with RMU since 2015. Dr. Purcell is currently serving as an associate professor for the Doctor of Physical Therapy program and maintains his clinical practice in the outpatient orthopedic setting with Intermountain Healthcare at Utah Valley Hospital.
Dr. Purcell’s experience as a licensed physical therapist includes a variety of settings—military, acute care, home health, pediatrics, and outpatient orthopedics. From 2012-2018, he was the director of clinical education for Provo College’s Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA) program and simultaneously served as the associate program director for the college PTA program from 2015-2018. He also served for four years as an intelligence officer in the United States Air Force.
Dr. Purcell holds many certifications: he has been a board-certified clinical specialist in orthopaedic physical therapy (OCS) since 2005, a certified strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association since 2006, a certified arthritis self-help course instructor and a certified ergonomic assessment specialist since 2000.
Dr. Purcell received a Doctor of Education with an emphasis in adult education from Capella University, a Master of Physical Therapy from Idaho State University, and an undergraduate degree in therapeutic recreation from Brigham Young University.
Assistant Professor, Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program
This award is presented to a faculty member who has been with the University full-time for less than five years at the rank of assistant professor and demonstrates outcomes related to excellence in teaching.
Raegan Furman, PhD, OTR/L, has been with RMU since 2021. She is an assistant professor in the entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy program, facilitating pediatric, scholarly inquiry, and adult neurological courses.
Dr. Furman serves as the chair of the Teaching Effectiveness Committee and the Faculty Development Committee at RMU. She previously served as the education track director for the pOTD program and currently serves as a capstone mentor for pOTD students. Dr. Furman also taught undergraduate health science courses at Concordia University and Furman University. She has clinical experience in both adult and pediatric populations in inpatient settings, including acute care, inpatient rehabilitation, and neonatal intensive care settings.
Prior to coming to RMU, Dr. Furman practiced in a comprehensive pediatric hospital setting (inpatient rehabilitation, acute care, and outpatient rehabilitation). Her passion is teaching and clinical practice with the pediatric neurological population. Dr. Furman loves the opportunity the Occupational Therapy profession gives her to connect with clients and families throughout their medical journey. She is an official reviewer for the American Journal of Occupational Therapy.
Dr. Furman received a Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences (PhD) with a concentration in Neurological Rehabilitation from RMU, a Master of Science in Occupational Therapy from the Medical University of South Carolina, and a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences from Furman University.
Adjunct Faculty, Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences Program
This award is presented to an adjunct faculty member who has been with the University for at least three years and recognizes and publicly acknowledges their outstanding teaching.
Sara Nottingham, EdD, LAT, ATC, has been with RMU since 2021 and is an adjunct faculty member with the Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences (PhD) program. She is also a professor and the director of the athletic training program at the University of New Mexico.
Dr. Nottingham has published extensively on clinical education, faculty development, mentoring, and documentation practices in athletic training using qualitative and mixed methods designs.
She is currently a member of the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) Foundation Research Committee and has served as Chair of the NATA Education Advancement Committee, Co-Chair of the NATA Foundation Faculty Mentor program, and member of the NATA Executive Council for Education. Dr. Nottingham has also served as a committee member and mentor on several dissertation committees for students in the PhD program at RMU.
Dr. Nottingham received her doctorate from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, a master’s degree from the University of Oregon, and an undergraduate degree from Chapman University.
HEALTH PROMOTiON & WELLNESS
Hannah M. Greenlick-Michals (Arlington, VA)
A Qualitative Study of Self-Reported Descriptive Role-Related Experiences of Pediatric Health Care Workers During the COVID-19 Pandemic
HEALTHCARE PROFESSiONS EDUCATiON
Michael Patrick Blizniak (Yakima, WA)
Physical Therapists’ Perspectives of Implicit Racial & Ethnic Bias and The Influence on Physical Therapy Practice
iNTEGRATED HEALTH SCiENCES
Natalie King (Milton, GA)
Quality of Life After Traumatic Brain Injury: A Qualitative Study
Nicole Miller (Encinitas, CA)
The Influence of Ankle Kinematics and Plantarflexor Muscle Performance on Patellofemoral Joint Stress During Running Best Practices: A Mixed-Methods Study
NEUROLOGiC REHABiLiTATiON
Aubrey Lynn Riley (Redding, CA)
Modification and Validation of the Healthy Aging Brain Care Monitor
Self-Report Version (HABC-M SR)
Assessment Tool to Detect Symptoms of Post-Intensive Care Syndrome in an Inpatient Setting
ORTHOPEDiC SPORTS SCiENCE
Joan Luna Vicente (Manhattan Beach, CA)
Thoracic Spine and Shoulder Relationships: Posture, Mobility, and Physical Performance in Symptomatic and Asymptomatic Adults * indicates veteran # indicates
Maren Cathrine Mather (Lindon, UT)
HEALTH PROMOTiON & WELLNESS
Daniel H. Blevins* (Sonoita, AZ)
Johna Beard (American Fork, UT)
EXECUTiVE LEADERSHiP
Darcie Lyn Chamberlain (St. George, UT)
Claire Ngwa (Cameroon, TX)
Michelle Andersen (Saratoga Springs, UT)
Sheila Marie Araujo (Huntersville, NC)
Heidi Baker (American Fork, UT)
Karsyn Bingham (Vineyard, UT)
Zyniah Dazo (Pasadena, CA)
April Ekpezu (Denver, CO)
Daniel C. Fernelius (Herriman, UT)
Melyssa D. Gleed (Layton, UT)
Scott Louis Gonzales (Pleasant Grove, UT)
Whitney Goudjil (Eagle Mountain, UT)
Camille Grill (Santaquin, UT)
Sherri Gunn (Farmington, UT)
Indira Luzmila Gutiérrez (Magna, UT)
Abbey Harding (Eagle Mountain, UT)
Shamila Hashimi (Ferndale, WA)
Zachary Jeffers (Mapleton, UT)
Kayla Lo (Weiser, ID)
* indicates veteran # indicates student leadership
Riley Loveless (Payson, UT)
Janna McDonald (Delta, UT)
McKay Norton (Eagle Mountain, UT)
Molly Hart Oswood (Savage, MN)
Jamie Romney (West Jordan, UT)
Madison Danielle Scheurich (Salt Lake City, UT)
Corinne Dix Shannon (Trinidad and Tobago)
Annetta Sine (South Jordan, UT)
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING, FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER (CONTINUED)
Danielle Marie Smith (Price, UT)
Nichole Sorensen (Vernal, UT)
Melissa Thomas (Santaquin, UT)
Cassie ReNee Vander Werff (Orem, UT)
Miley Lynn Villar (Santaquin, UT)
Michael W. Wheeler II (Palm Desert, CA)
Austin Dennis Wride (Springville, UT)
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING, FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER/EMERGENCY NURSE PRACTITIONER
Johannah Marguerite Braithwaite (Moroni, UT)
Michael Fank Jr.* (Salt Lake City, UT)
Jennifer Huynh (Pennsauken, NJ)
Mark Mitchell* (Cheyenne, WY)
Cheyenne K. Peña (Ely, NV)
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING, FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER/PSYCHIATRIC MENTAL HEALTH NURSE PRACTITIONER
Jennifer Day Duke (American Fork, UT)
Lexi Lambert (Grand Junction, CO)
Trecy Maina* (Lenexa, KS)
Chandler Reed (North Logan, UT)
Jacqueline Young (Appleton, WI) * indicates veteran # indicates student leadership
Laramie R. Allred (Cedar City, UT)
Kelsey Ashley Vera Conway (New York, NY)
Sandra Flodin (Sandy, UT)
Karah George (Casper, WY)
Wendy Suzanne Hamilton (South Jordan, UT)
Angelica Isela Hoover (Kingman, AZ)
David Housley (Layton, UT)
Haley Hunsaker (Salt Lake City, UT)
Angelle Cancienne Miller (Cottonwood Heights, UT)
Samiyyah Kabara New (Oklahoma City, OK)
Rhonda Isi Ogagba (Houston, TX)
Jodie Reiner (El Dorado, CA)
Anna R. Sibio (Saratoga Springs, UT)
Danielle Jean-Baldi Tito (Scarborough, ME)
Kyle Thomas Ward (Mapleton, UT)
Keandra L. Watson (Evergreen, AL)
EMERGENCY NURSE PRACTITIONER CERTIFICATE
Ernasha Kristen McIntosh (Ganado, AZ)
Cara Rosas* (Las Vegas, NV)
FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER CERTIFICATE
Myly Gregersen (Price, UT)
Valerie Thorn (Springville, UT)
Liljana Sharelle Walker* (Durham, NC)
Suzanne Winslow (Salt Lake City, UT)
* indicates veteran # indicates student leadership
FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER CERTIFICATE AND PSYCHIATRIC MENTAL HEALTH NURSE
PRACTITIONER CERTIFICATE
Kyla Camille Gray (Surprise, AZ)
Tinika Nicole McCoy (Chesapeake, VA)
Tremone McLeod (Tallahassee, FL)
LaToya Nesbeth (Miami, FL)
PSYCHIATRIC MENTAL HEALTH NURSE PRACTITIONER CERTIFICATE
Silvia Erica Arabia (San Francisco, CA)
Courtney Camacho* (Ogden, UT)
Lorrine Chi* (Atlanta, GA)
L’Aurelle Deogratias (Inglewood, CA)
Sahara Patricia Dominguez (Cullen, VA)
Jacquelynne Aurelia Fortson (Fairfield, CA)
Noah B. Lubben* (West Haven, UT)
Antoinette Moore-Thomas (Central Islip, NY)
Peter K. Muigai (Federal Way, WA)
Oyinkansola Bridget Oyebade (Houston, TX)
Shalom Katiga Smiley (Pleasant Grove, UT)
ADVANCED CLiNiCAL PRACTiCE
Erica A. Amianda (Montclair, NJ)
Arrisa Hanson (Richmond, VA)
Julie Huynh-Lu (Houston, TX)
McKenzie Johnsen (Pittsburgh, PA)
Ashleigh Lewis Johnson (Odum, GA)
Audra Leonard (Midland, TX)
Jay Patrick O’Neill* (Neah Bay, WA)
HEALTHCARE LEADERSHiP & ADMiNiSTRATiON
Taylor G. Clark (Huntsville, AL)
John A. Huntington (Modesto, CA)
Andrew R. Murphy (Syracuse, NY)
Joshua Niles Powers (Apple Valley, CA)
Plummer L. Wax Jr.* (Chula Vista, CA)
HEALTHCARE PROFESSiONS EDUCATiON
Mary Jo Bloominger (Davenport, IA)
Austin Taylor Crocker (Vancouver, WA)
Cory Dawn Davis (Tucson, AZ)
Jennifer Hamson (Lindon, UT)
Samuel Lopez# (Durango, CO)
Lori J. McGowan (Rochester, MN)
Angela Schmieder (Lynn Center, IL)
Katie M. Spedding (Provo, UT)
Katey Mae Wert (Ponte Vedra, FL)
Andrew Adedapo Adesida (Apple Valley, CA)
Ariane Aubourg (Lynbrook, NY)
Brandy M. Bates (Pocatello, ID)
Krystal M. Cromeyer (Staten Island, NY)
Rachel Marie Edwards (Greenwood Village, CO)
Allison Denae Gilbert (Kansas City, MO)
Brenitta Gilliam-Udo (Pomona, CA)
Justin Paul Hadaller (Yreka, CA)
Brock Haskell (South Jordan, UT)
Melissa Ann Hoyt (Eagle Mountain, UT)
Emily Conrad Johnston (Rochester, NY)
Onyedikachukwu Momah (Bethleham, PA)
Peter O. Mose (Cumming, GA)
Margaret Owusu-Afari (Ellicott City, MD)
Caitlin A. Ullman* (New Hartford, NY)
Michele R. Vanderlin (Phoenix, AZ)
Hannah E. Wheeler* (Mustang, OK)
Mildred Castro (Westlake, FL)
Ronald Krishan Jeganathan (Staten Island, NY)
Emily Anne Adams (Park City, UT)
Diana Gammon Battrick# (Pleasant Grove, UT)
Lauren V. Brown (Salt Lake City, UT)
Candra Bunn (West Jordan, UT)
Tiyu Cheng (Appleton, WI)
Matthew Clive# (Wenatchee, WA)
Rikaela Cook (Chico, CA)
Brielle Victoria Crump# (Spokane, WA)
Nora Cuevas-Placencia (East Los Angeles, CA)
Sharon M. Dunn# (Price, UT)
Kraig Dye# (Orem, UT)
Parker D. Eastwood (Highland, UT)
Sophia Irene Ellis (San Clemente, CA)
Savannah Muise Evans# (Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada)
Justice Farley (Soda Springs, ID)
Natalie Grace Fischetti (Johnstown, PA)
Isaac Fuller (Gilbert, AZ)
Noah Edward Funk (Las Vegas, NV)
Christa George# (Jefferson Township, NJ)
Alexandra Glenn# (Tampa, FL)
Anthony Greggo* (Art Grahamville, FL)
Liesl Hadley (Edina, MN)
Ashton Tanner Hoyt# (Murray, UT)
Chase Dean Jackman (Orem, UT)
Ashley Brooke Jamsa (West Linn, OR)
Quinn Legere (Orem, UT)
Ian McElhenney (West Chester, PA)
Kelsie Nelson# (Spanish Fork, UT)
Callie Nielsen-Horman (Cottonwood Heights, UT)
Ethan Nielsen (Orem, UT)
* indicates veteran # indicates student leadership
Christopher Nielson (Alpine, UT)
Brynn Hoggan Oldroyd# (Anchorage, AK)
Jon G. Ostler II (Lancaster, CA)
Heather Hunter Parkinson (Provo, UT)
Isaiah Garrett Parry (Salem, UT)
Kayla Harley Pendleton (Cedar Hills, UT)
Cierra Pennal (Grand Junction, CO)
Lindsay Rigby (Logan, UT)
Joshua Romanek# (Spanish Fork, UT)
Angela Schmidt (Brookfield, WI)
Jacob Sherrill (Burleson, TX)
Amelia Lucy Timms (Holladay, UT)
Raven Angelique Uy (Las Vegas, NV)
Lauren Wells (Fruit Heights, UT)
Elise Gabriel Wright (Heber City, UT)
Leonard-Max Seiuli Ah Mu (Provo, UT)
Michelle Asvitt (Orem, UT)
Rachel Ayers (Pocatello, ID)
Jessica Bradshaw (Cedar City, UT)
Kimba Ann Brierley (Heber City, UT)
Stacie Bunton (Orem, UT)
Natasha SavahnaEllsworth Jacobson Chiaratti-Fernandes (Millcreek, UT)
Carolyn Marie Collinsworth (Spanish Fork, UT)
Tina Coverdell (Bluffdale, UT)
Sydney Lynn Daniels (Elko, NV)
Angela Cechetto de Moura (Spanish Fork, UT)
Robert Dixon (Spanish Fork, UT)
Sydney Dolan-Matis (Lincoln Park, NJ)
Connor R. Duersch (American Fork, UT)
Becky Edwards (Syracuse, UT)
Dacya Erickson (Saratoga Springs, UT)
Maureen Fiefia (Providence, UT)
Esmeralda A. Fonseca (Heber City, UT)
Abby Mariah Gibbons (Lehi, UT)
Sarah S. Hardy (Pocatello, ID)
Nathan B. Heaps (Payson, UT)
Tina Heil (Provo, UT)
Marie E. Hyde (Bountiful, UT)
Aneeqa Janjua (Alpine, UT)
Jake Jones (Springville, UT)
Joseph Michael Keller (College Park, MD)
MaKenzie Lamb (Highland, UT)
Katie Landgren (West Bountiful, UT)
Kamie Logan (Salt Lake City, UT)
Melissa Merrill (St. George, UT)
Katrina Navarro (Lindon, UT)
Nicole Nelson (Nibley, UT)
Melissa Orton (Logan, UT)
Holly Patterson (Pleasant View, UT)
Ashley Paynter (Salem, OR)
Catherine Dawn Peterson (Lehi, UT)
Millie Pfaff (South Ogden, UT)
Michelle Kealani Robinson (Lehi, UT)
Abbie F. Rogers (Eagle Mountain, UT)
Jessica Morse Ryan (Spanish Fork, UT)
Stephanie Santana (Heber City, UT)
Matthew Joel Smith (Plano, TX)
Sherry Kay Sorensen (West Jordan, UT)
Bonnie Stewart (Meadow, UT)
Melisa Jo Swapp (Tooele, UT)
Azurdee Veigel Vecchi (Salt Lake CIty, UT)
Jenessa Vincent (Columbus, IN)
Alexis Diana Walker (Spanish Fork, UT)
Isaac Wallin (Enterprise, UT)
Brandi N. Xaiz (Draper, UT)
Azurdee Veigel Vecchi (Salt Lake CIty, UT)
Jenessa Vincent (Columbus, IN)
Alexis Diana Walker (Spanish Fork, UT)
Isaac Wallin (Enterprise, UT)
Brandi N. Xaiz (Draper, UT)
Leonard-Max Seiuli Ah Mu (Provo, UT)
Shannon Kelly Badger (Pleasant Grove, UT)
Aniston Barnett (Huntington, UT)
Stacie Bunton (Orem, UT)
Natasha SavahnaEllsworth Jacobson Chiaratti-Fernandes (Millcreek, UT)
Michele Culp (Pleasant Grove, UT)
Angela Cechetto de Moura (Spanish Fork, UT)
Maureen Fiefia (Providence, UT)
Jake Jones (Springville, UT)
Dawn Larson (Bountiful, UT)
Kamie Logan (Salt Lake City, UT)
Jennifer M. Nash (Vernal, UT)
Nicole Nelson (Nibley, UT)
Melissa Orton (Logan, UT)
Jasmine C. Purles# (Herriman, UT)
Abbie F. Rogers (Eagle Mountain, UT)
Bonnie Stewart (Meadow, UT)
Melisa Jo Swapp (Tooele, UT)
Sheila B. Unsworth (Tooele, UT)
Isaac Wallin (Enterprise, UT)
Misty L. Bliss (Oak City, UT)
Laurie Harper (Washington, UT)
CERTIFICATE
Miles Merica Killian (Provo, UT)
Kimberly Pace (Farmington, UT)
* indicates veteran # indicates student leadership
Abby Slade (Logan, UT)
Kristy Marie Alamo Ramos (San Juan, Puerto Rico)
Alicia Alexandra Alonso-Cappas (Englewood, NJ)
Stephanie Nicole Austin (Nashville, TN)
Jessica Beers (Portland, OR)
Elizabeth Louise Blackwell* (Richmond, VA)
Stephanie Raymond Bohler (Cherry Valley, MA)
Juliet Thomas Bradford (West Palm Beach, FL)
Jennifer Diane Burton-Zufelt (St. Augustine, FL)
LaVon Francine Dawson (Chatham, VA)
Amber Markette Denham (Decatur, GA)
Susan Lynne Timko Gillian (Slippery Rock, PA)
Nicole Grzymkowski* (Maumee, OH)
Desiree Tatiana Hernandez (San Antonio, TX)
Jamie Hitchcock (Sammamish, WA)
Shaba Howard (Baton Rouge, LA)
Emily Mellyn
Huntington (Creston, IA)
Camille S. Johnson (Atlanta, GA)
Karyn A. Jones (Long Beach, CA)
Tyisha Renee Jones (Kansas City, MO)
Caroline J. Kelly (Tulsa, OK)
Dorothy “Beth” Kelly (Slidell, LA)
Victoria Lane Luna (Quantico, VA)
Anne Pevy (Ruston, LA)
Laura Primis (Pleasantville, NY)
Jacqueline Rushkowski Schaffer (Pittsburgh, PA)
Kristen Ann Reck Schulte (Temecula, CA)
Bailey P. Sedlak (Jacksonville, FL)
Nmamah Kadijatu Sinlah (Boyds, MD)
Julie Stewart (Herriman, UT)
Dana Marie Surena-Mattson (Norwalk, CT)
Joseph M. Swingle (Lake Ariel, PA)
Tiffany Jonay Taliaferro (Laurel, MD)
Monique M. Uy (Somers Point, NJ)
Amanda Wallace (Arvada, CO)
Alexis Wimberly (Gray, GA)
CLiNiCAL RESEARCH
Michaela Banks (Senatobia, MI)
Caroline Benvenutti (Long Beach, MI)
Natalie Beyranevand (Northborough, MA)
Dominese Briscoe-Robinson (Washington, D.C.)
Genevieve DeVeyra (Fort Bragg, NC)
Linda Franco (Summerville, SC)
Alyssa Catherine Llewelyn (Greenfield, MA)
Jennifer N. Meece (Bristow, VA)
Salvador Adrian Nunez (Chaska, MN)
Taylorann Torre Pedatella (Poughkeepsie, NY)
Heather Riddle (Phoenix, AZ)
Kalista Danaye Rudd (Bloomfield, IA)
Kayla Laydon Thurston (Cheshire, CT)
Olivia L. Welhoff (Overland Park, KS)
Andrea Huist Wilcox (Perrysburg, OH)
Flor Esmeralda
Ramirez Anguiano# (East Los Angeles, CA)
Kayla Marie Barker# (Buena Park, CA)
Rocio Martinez Barrera (Greenville, SC)
Frandia Bazelais (Miami, FL)
Fernando Beltran Quintero# (Corona, CA)
Jaymie Marie Bryant (Clanton, AL)
Kayla Carrillo# (Tracy, CA)
Alexis Mikelle Denney# (Idaho Falls, ID)
Katelyn Earnest (Parker, CO)
Gracey Gardner (Mountain Home, UT)
Sara Hawker (Syracuse, UT)
Jacey Ann Hayden (Cedar City, UT)
Leyna Herzog# (Appleton, WI)
Kaylee Holt (Mesa, AZ)
Kristin Marie Patricia Knowlton (Spanish Fork, UT)
Sydney Ryan Lenoir# (Brentwood, CA)
Mariah Nilsen (Plymouth, MN)
Kaitlyn O’Brien# (Amelia, VA)
Yasmine Phillips (Calumet, MI)
Greeshma Raghavan (Mysuru, India)
Anya Alycia Walker# (Nampa, ID)
Taylar Williams (Las Vegas, NV)
EDUCATiON
Donna Haylock de la Garza (Brownsville, TX)
Lydia Christine Geiszler (Rochester, MN)
Michelle Monk (Huntsville, AL)
Michelle L. Sanders (Merrillville, IN)
HAND THERAPY
Brian Alan Devan Ware (Chicago, IL)
HEALTH & WELLNESS COACHiNG
Amy Christalyn Schneider* (Edmonds, WA)
Sara Anne Weigand (Phoenix, AZ)
LEADERSHiP
Casey Marie Schneider (Rochester, MN)
PEDiATRiCS
Carrie Booth (Minneapolis, MN)
Katherine Bush (Louisville, KY)
Malgorzata Grzybowska (Alexandria, VA)
Kimarah Reefe (Trinidad and Tobago)
Lejani Reid (Merritt Island, FL)
Elena Conlin Pollack Stone (Peoria, AZ)
Emily Beth Torres (Salt Lake City, UT)
Nieeunta Jasmine Ward (Riverdale, GA)
Jane B. Berger (White Plains, NY)
Rujuta Bhave (Pune, India)
Amber L. Hulbert (Long Beach, CA)
Yashvi Bhavin Mody (Mumbai, India)
Julie Reeves (Augusta, GA)
Sandhya Mathur
Sahi-Jain (Oakville, Ontario, Canada)
Katy M. Scott (Arroyo Grande, CA)
Susan B. Swoope (Augusta, GA)
Jan Marlina P. Tamayo (Parañaque City, Philippines)
interim College Dean
Malissa Martin EdD, ATC S
DOCTOR OF PHiLOSOPHY iN HEALTH SCiENCES
Program Director
Jennifer Austin PhD, LAT, ATC, GTS
Concentration Track Directors
Athletic Training
Jennifer Austin PhD, LAT, ATC, GTS
Health Promotion & Wellness
Mary P. Shotwell PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA
Healthcare Leadership & Administration
Jennifer Austin PhD, LAT, ATC, GTS
Healthcare Professions Education
Jennifer Austin PhD, LAT, ATC, GTS
Human & Sport Performance
Victor Romano EdD, DHSc, CSCS
integrated Health Sciences
Jennifer Austin PhD, LAT, ATC, GTS
Neurologic Rehabilitation
Kristen Johnson PT, EdD, MS, NCS
Orthopedic Sports Science
Erin M. Miller PhD, LAT, ATC
Pediatric Science
Jane K. Sweeney PT, MS, PhD, PCS, FAPTA
MASTER OF SCiENCE iN HEALTH SCiENCE
Program Director
Kim Isaac PhD, LAT, ATC
DEPARTMENT OF NURSiNG
Department Chair
Janet Noles PhD, APRN, FNP-BC, FAANP
DOCTOR OF NURSiNG PRACTiCE
Program Director
Janet Noles PhD, APRN, FNP-BC, FAANP
EMERGENCY NURSE PRACTiTiONER
Program Director
Kristina Davis ENP-C, FNP-C, AGACNP-BC
FAMiLY NURSE PRACTiTiONER
Program Director
Megan O’Neil DNP, APRN, FNP-C, OCN
PSYCHiATRiC MENTAL HEALTH NURSE PRACTiTiONER
Program Director
Allyce Jones
DNP, MSN, PMHNP-BC, APRN, NCMP, PMH-C
DEPARTMENT OF PHYSiCiAN ASSiSTANT STUDiES
Department Chair
Tyler Sommer PhD, MPAS, PA-C
DOCTOR OF MEDiCAL SCiENCE
Program Director
Bartley Rust DHSc, PA-C
Concentration Track Directors
Health Professions Education
Laura McElhaney DHSc, MHE, PA-C, CLS (ASCP)
Healthcare Leadership Administration
J. Mace Hamblin DHSc, MPA
Psychiatry
Tim McCreary DMSc, MMS, PA-C, PSY-CAQ
MASTER OF MEDiCAL SCiENCE
Program Director
Tyler Sommer PhD, MPAS, PA-C
Director of Didactic Education
Lauren Stanford DMSc, MPAS, PA-C
Director of Clinical Education
Amber Collins PhD
Assistant Director of Clinical Education
Jennifer Orchard MPA, JD
Director of Program Operations
Cecile Pryor MPH
Medical Director
Eric Smart MD, FACEP
DEPARTMENT OF PROFESSiONAL COUNSELiNG
Department Chair & Program Director
Verl T. Pope EdD, LPC, CMHC, NCC, CCMHC, ASC
DOCTOR OF OPTOMETRY
College Dean
Adam Hickenbotham OD, MPH, PhD
Associate Dean of Academic Affairs
Donnie C. Akers OD
Assistant Dean of Clinical Affairs
Court Wilkins OD, MHS, FAAO
College Dean
Jeff Lau PT, DPT, PhD, CMPT
DOCTOR OF SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY
Program Director
Sandra Combs PhD, CCC-SLP, F-OSLHA
Assistant Program Director
Courtney V. Moore ClinScD, CCC-SLP
Capstone Coordinator
Kelly Robinson ClincScD, CCC-SLP
Concentration Track Director, Healthcare Professions Education
Amber Heape CScD, CCC-SLP, FNAP
MASTER OF SCiENCE iN MEDiCAL SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY
Program Director
Wendy Chase MA, CCC-SLP, CHSE
Director of Clinical Education
ElBea Stonier MS, CCC-SLP
DEPARTMENT OF OCCUPATiONAL THERAPY
Department Chair
Bryan Gee PhD, OTR/L, BCP, CLA, FAOTA
DOCTOR OF OCCUPATiONAL THERAPY
Program Director
Bryan Gee PhD, OTR/L, BCP, CLA, FAOTA
Academic Fieldwork Coordinator
Keren Shavit-Buckley EdD, MS, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Coordinator
Sarah Mbiza PhD, OTR/L, ACUE
POST-PROFESSiONAL DOCTOR OF OCCUPATiONAL THERAPY
Program Director
Matt P. Malcolm PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA
Doctoral Capstone Coordinator
Robert Krueger PhD, OTD, OTR/L
Concentration Track Directors
Advanced Practice
Ellen Hudgins OTD, OTR/L, ITOT
Aging
Matt P. Malcolm PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA
Assistive Technology
Lynn Gitlow PhD, OTR/L, ATP, FAOTA
Education
Robert Krueger PhD, OTD, OTR/L
Hand Therapy
Kristin Biggins OTD, OTR/L, CHT, CLT
Health & Wellness
Erica Kiernan PT, DPT, OT, MOT, PhD
Leadership Ellen Hudgins OTD, OTR/L, ITOT
Pediatrics
Latoya Henry OTD, OTR/L
MASTER OF OCCUPATiONAL THERAPY PROGRAM
Program Director
Sheri Montgomery EdD, OTD, OTR/L, FAOTA
DOCTOR OF PHYSiCAL THERAPY
Program Director and Department Chair
Steven G. Wilkinson PT, PhD
Associate Program Director
Joel Tenbrink PT, DPT
Assistant Program Directors Miriam Cortez-Cooper PT, PhD
Michael Bartholomew PT, DPT, PhD
Co-Directors of Clinical Education
Timothy Stevenson PT, DPT, PhD
Will Sykes PT, DPT
TRANSiTiONAL DOCTOR OF PHYSiCAL THERAPY – PEDiATRiC SCiENCE
Program Director
Janet Tankersley PT, DPT, PhD, PCS
NEONATOLOGY FELLOWSHiP
Jane K. Sweeney PT, MS, PhD, PCS, FAPTA
Dr. Michael Skurja, Jr. Chair
Dr. Rogan L. Taylor Vice Chair
Mr. Michael Held Treasurer
Dr. Susan Lucht Secretary
Dr. Jessica Egbert
Dr. Leah I. Fullman
Dr. Sunnie Giles
Dr. Mary Jane Harris
Mr. Mike Held
Dr. Lily S. Hsu
Dr. D. Brent Israelsen
Dr. Gregory D. Myer
Dr. Richard P. Nielsen
Dr. Michael Nelson
Mr. James Suel
Dr. Roy Zwahlen
Dr. Cameron K. Martin ex officio
Dr. Cameron K. Martin
University President & Chief Executive Officer
Dr. Malissa Martin
Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs & Provost
Mr. Jeffrey B. Bate
Executive Vice President of Finance and Operations & Chief Financial Officer
Mr. Stephen L. Whyte
Executive Vice President of University Relations
Mr. Richard Peterson Chief of Staff, Office of the President
Ms. Dana Costa Vice President of Enrollment, Marketing & Communications
Mr. Dan Harmuth Vice President of Technology & Innovation/ Chief Information Officer
Jeffrey L. Fisher
Senior Executive Director of the RMU Foundation
Ms. Tanya Snelson
Sr. Executive Assistant, Office of the President
On behalf of the Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions Alumni Association, we congratulate you on graduating from RMU and officially welcome you as a new member of the Alumni Association. As you embark on the next phase of your life, know that you are part of an incredible network of more than 4,600 healthcare professionals who are RMU alumni.
As a graduate, you have access to the following:
• 15% tuition discount on a future certificate or program
• 15% tuition discount on RMU PEAKS continuing education offerings
• Library resources and research databases
• Office of Research guidebook for getting published
• Access to alumni reunions and University events
We encourage you to get involved, be informed, and stay connected as alumni. To learn more, visit rm.edu/alumni.
Congratulations, graduates!