Inner Circle Summer Magazine 2023

THE INNER CIRCLE

DEDICATED TO THE REGOGNITION OF EXCELLENCE

Abraham B. Bornstein

Assistant Professor of Integrative Medicine

Maharishi International University

Abraham J. Salazar

Senior Manager of Research & Development

Giffin Inc.

Adam D. Jankovich Dentist

Bright Side Dental & Orthodontics

Adriana Rozo-Angulo President & Founder MAS Connections

Aisha Akhtar

Colorectal Surgeon

Arizona Advanced Surgery

Al Da Silva

Founder/Chief Executive Officer Da Silva Consulting LLC

Alex Abdul Owner Socal Luxury LLC.

Alex A. Gargano

Senior Vice President

Vault Insurance

Alexandra F. Suslow-Geditz

Internist and Co-Founder

Louisville Medical Center

Alison M. Garcia

Physician Associate, Surgical Critical Care & Surgical Sub-Specialties

NYU Langone Hospital Brooklyn

Allan D. Lamb

Co-Founder and General Surgeon

Lakeshore Surgical Consultants PLC

Anaiis Salles

Bioenergetics Practitioner

Living Lessons Library

Andrew Reed Partner Connector Labs, Inc.

Andrew Watkins Owner

Desmond’s Catering

Andrew Jonathan Cordiale

Owner and Orthopedic Surgeon Cor Ortho Spine

Angie Thomas Realtor

City Real Estate

WHO IS NEW AT CWW

Arben Santo Chairperson

Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine

Arun Kumar Sherma Neurologist

Wayne State University Health Center

Arvin Pereira Managing Director Bank of America

Ashley Guanzon Pharmacist

LAC+USC Medical Center

Ashton Peterson

Advanced Practice Registered Nurse & Certified Family Nurse Practitioner

Peterson Wellness Primary Care & Pediatrics

Ashton Nichole Tate VP of DevOps Engineering Support

Citigroup

Autumn E. Dugas

Naturopathic Physician

Yellowstone Naturopathic Clinic

Ava Russell

Associate Professor

Western Texas College

Barry H. Snowden

Real Estate Development & Corporate

Law Attorney

Morris, Lendais, Hollrah & Snowden

Barry J. Armstrong

Founder & CEO

8888 Coaching Inc.

Bernice E. Muyskens Meagor

Leader in Music and Music Education

Bharat Kothakota

Emergency Physician/Owner

Self Care LA & Beyond Harmony Med Spa

Brett E. Nelson Partner

Plews, Shadley, Racher & Braun LLP

Brett S. Morris

Chief Executive Officer

Samaritan Fund Program

Britni Powell

Cardiovascular Program Manager

CHRISTUS Health

Carin Denyce Groh

Attorney

Goldstein & Orr

Carole K. Zingula Olewinski

Retired Registered Nurse/Founder & Owner

Ordained Minister & Concierge

Carolyn Iga

CEO and President

Neighborhood Music School

Chadi Alraies

Medical Director

Detroit Medical Center

Charles A. Morris

CEO

Write with Purpose Corp.

Charles K. Wagner Jr

CEO

United Trust Bank

Charles Peter Richardson

Owner

Lake Gaston Pizza & More

Cherry May Ambrose

Psychotherapist

Ambrose Family Health Consultants LLC.

Christina Royer

Chief Executive Officer

Sky High Travel

Christopher Patterson

Vice President of Digital

H-Advisors Abernath

Connie N. Ables

Technical Services Supervisor

KLX Energy Services

Cord Schlobohm

Dentist

Schlobohm Dental

Cory Coe

Orthodontist/Attorney

Beaches & Braces, PLLC

Courtney E. Takahashi

Neurologist and Neurointensivist

Boston Medical Center

Cynthia B. Couch

Dentist and Founder

Modern Dental Solutions

Daniel Perez

CEO

Siingly

Daniel R. Wesley

Emergency Medicine/Educator

Blue Ridge Community College

David Huntzinger

Vice President of Safety

Laminaar Aviation Infotech Americas

David Grant Stewart Jr.

Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon

Cure 4 The Kids Foundation

David J. Francati

Dentist and Owner

Bay Dental Office

David L. Rogers

VP Sales/National Accounts

New Legend Transportation Inc.

David R. Danly Psychiatrist

Andrews Center

Dena Lynn Lodato

Small Animal Surgeon

Resurge Veterinary Surgical Specialists and Rehabilitation

Deniz Baysal

Orthopedic Surgeon and Owner

Baysal Orthopedic Institute

Dennis K. Burns

Pathologist and Professor Emeritus

The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center

Devon G. John

Transplant Surgeon and Chief of Renal Transplantation

Westchester Medical Center

Dimi Yar

Founder/CEO

VOSA Income Inequality Solutions Inc.

Dipesh B. Patel

Family Physician

Cleveland Clinic Martin Health

Dmitry Zhukovski

Family Practitioner and Owner

Dr. Dmitry Zhukovski DO

Donald E.Enterprise Cost Reduction (ERC) Inc. Meyer II

Chief Executive Officer

Enterprise Cost Reduction (ERC) Inc.

Dra. Sigrid Mojica

Dentist

Dra. Sigrid Mojica

Eduardo F. Martinez

CEO

Martinez Commercial Flooring Service, LLC

Edward H. Lowe

Family Physician

Edward H. Lowe ,M.D

Edwidge Cuvilly

Nurse Practitioner

Weill Cornell Medicine

Elin Barth Berg

Psychiatrist

Berg Psychiatric, LLC

Elizabeth Suarez

Author, Speaker & Business Owner

Negotiation Unleashed

Elmer Cupino Psychiatrist

Elmer Cupino, MD

Eric Moore

Principal

Anya Itpak Elementary School

Ermes Zamperla

Professional Artist and Equestrian

Esha Shafiq

Program Manager

Dana Farber Cancer Research Institute

Essie French-Preston Counselor

Compton College

Eugene Gene Larivee

Regional Vice President Masis Staffing Solutions

F. Cleveland Kinney Professor at Emeritus of Psychiatry Emeritus of Psychiatry

Francesca V. Paragas

Geriatric Nurse Practioner Primary Care Physicians of Hampton Roads

G. Kenneth Hornung

Senior Director of Sales emTRUTH, INC.

Gabriela Elexis Gurevich Dentist

Smiles and Sonrisas

Garry Pezzano

President and CEO

LeadingAge PA

Gayle Faulkner

Artist and Owner

Gayle Faulkner Fine Art

George Cybulski

Healthcare Researcher and Neurological Surgeon

Humboldt Park Health

German Lopez

Diagnostic Radiologist

Carolina CT & Breast Clinic

Ghazaleh Gyzel Tabrizi

Chiropractor

Virginia Family Chiropractic

Haley Carmichael Neef

Pediatric Gastroenterologist

Confer Med and Arista.com

Halina Snowball

Owner, Physiatrist and Acupuncturist

Integrated Pain Solutions

Haris Choudry

Physiatrist

SUNY Downstate Medical Center

Henry Cusnir

Interventional Cardiologist/Physician

C-HCA Inc. /Diagnostic Cardiology Associates

Howard Daniel Rollins III

Electronics Engineer ONPASSIVE

Imelda Nagtalon

Dentist

Family Dental Care

Ioanna K. Bolia

Orthopedic Surgeon Resident

USC Epstein Family Center for Sports Medicine at Keck Medicine

Irina Sheynman

Respiratory Care Practitioner and Clinical Coordinator of Pulmonary Rehabilitation

California Pacific Medical Center

J. David Jacovitch

Geologist/Geophysicists

Retired

Jacob Nicholas Fava

Owner

Ascendant Completion Services

Jacqueline M. DeSilva

CEO

Pain Specialists of Southern Oregon and Crater Lake Surgery Center

Jairo Fernandez

Senior Director

Ferro Holding Corporation

Jake Lambert IV Owner

1927xProductions

James C. Lasker

Hematologist-Oncologist

Cleveland Clinic, Scully Welsh Cancer Center

James P. Oberman

Otolaryngologist

Frederick Breathes Free Sinus and ENT Center

James R. Cooper

Attorney

Morrow Gordon & Byrd

James R. Geisbush

Senior Civil Reliability Engineer

The Central Arizona Project

Janet Kennedy-Jacobs

Principal Chief Executive Officer

The Pastor’s House LLC

Jason D. Henderson

Dentist and Owner

Jason D. Henderson DDS

Jayne F. Dabu

Acupuncturist and Owner

Lotus Acupuncture & Holistic Health Clinic

Jean L. Cooper

Principal Cataloger

The University of Virginia Library

Jeff Hawkins

Vice President

Sensopart

Jeffrey S. Wolff

Director of Casino Services

Aruze Gaming America, Inc.

Jennifer L. Scherbauer

Chiropractor Naturopathic Physician and Acupuncturist

Jennifer L. Scherbauer, DC, ND. LAC

Jessalyn Forella

Dentist

Fairfield Dental Arts

Jessica Renee Jennings Ford Case Manager Concentrix

Jessie H. Serna

Attorney

The Law Office of Jessie H. Serna

Jim Wilson

COO

Biz Advisory Consulting

Jiong Huang Vice President of Quality Management Interpreta

Joe Littlejohn Jr.

Founder/Owner

Linkbox Solutions LLC

John A. Gallien

Neuroscientist

University of California San Francisco

John Ashton Vellequette Owner and Dentist

Smile Center Silicon Valley

John Dean Freund

Outdoor and Resource Teacher

Worthington City School District

John R. Pitts

Founding Chair

Texas Star Alliance

John W. Ziebarth

Partner

Perfect Game Productions

Jonathan J. Klein Partner

Parlatore Law Group

Joseph Onajide

Department Head of News

PG Publishing

Joseph P. Calderone Jr. Ophthalmologist

Better Vision New Jersey

Josh Abelson Founder

Abelson & Associates, LLC

Juan Carlos Alvarez

Former Vice President of Field Services

Sylvan Road Capital LLC

Julian Lender Dentist and Owner A+ Dentistry

Justin C. Ponquinette Surgeon

Atlantic Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center

Kari Blankenship

Dentist and Owner Dental Renaissance

Kathie Chandler

Founder

Sacred Messages

Keith Meyers Partner

TCS

Keith Alex Greenaway

Chief Executive Officer/Co-Founder

Intelimas Corporation

Keith M. Drucker

Managing Director

Agile Vertical Resources

Kenneth O. Preston

U.S. Army Retired Sergeant

13th Sergeant Major of the Army Sergeant Major

Khaled A. Almansoori

Orthopedic Surgeon

Advanced Orthopedic & Spine Care

Kimberly Gattuso

Owner and Managing Partner

Dry Guys Basement Systems

Lauren Egan

Retired Senior Revenue Agent

Colorado Department of Revenue

Laurie A. Bovino

Orthodontist

Galitsis & Bovino

Lawrence R. Hamner III

Cardiothoracic Surgeon and Owner

Lawrence R. Hamner III, MD, PA

Leo Cullen

TOSEL Consulting LLC.

Les M. McCoy

President/ Founder/ Chief Executive Officer

Design Point Inc.

Leslie Alison Newman

Registered Nurse

Alleghany Health Network

Lin Morel

Chief Executive Officer and Founder

Beyond Words Group Inc.

Linda Laughlin

Nurse Practitioner

VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System

Lisa Kopveiler Owner

Farmers Daughter Rustic Bakery

London L. Jones

Chiropractor and Owner

Feel Good Chiropractic

Lori Oswald

CEO of her own Consulting Business and Vice President of Client Services

Health Services Consulting & Care

Midwest, LLC

Lorrett Hibbert-Smith

Founder/C.E.O.

Child O’ Light, LLC Transformational Healing

Lorrie Kennedy

Broker and Agent

Classic Realty

Louis G. Fares II

General Surgeon

CH Center for Wound Management and Hyperbaric Medicine

Luis Hernandez

VP Intermodal

Florida East Coast Railway

Mark Certonio

Event Director

Key West Food & Wine Festival

Mark A. Spooner

Executive Director

Utah Tech University

Mark D. Plunkett

Pediatric Cardiac Surgeon

Children’s Hospital of Illinois

Marlene Zullig

Artist

Marlene Zullig Art

Marta C. Kolthoff

Obstetrician-Gynecologist

Allegheny Perinatal Associates

Mary Zupanc

Pediatric Neurologist and Pediatric

Epilepsy Specialist, Clinical Professor, Department of Neurology, Division of Pediatric Neurology University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health

Matthew T. Ponton

Owner & Tattoo Artist

NVUS Ink

Matthew V. Reza

Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Doctor of Nursing Practice

NaphCare, Inc.

Maurice MO Moragne Chief Sales Officer

MMoragne LLC

Meaghan T. Ziemba Owner

Z-Ink Solutions in Rockton

Merle W. Tochterman

RN Infection Preventionist

Virtua Health

Michael Moll

Bank Protection Vice President Macatawa Bank

Michael Rotter Dentist

Dental Associates

Michael C. Ost

Adult and Pediatric Urologist

Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh

Michael G. Cantwell

Artist

Michael Cantwell

Michael H. Schwartzberg Attorney

The Roach Firm

Michael J. Bouton

Co-Founder Chief Executive Officer

Viatech Global

Michael J. Springer

CEO

Greycloud Resolutions Group Citizen

Watch America- SVP Field Sales

Michael T. Pierce

Senior Vice President of Operations

Thomas Foods International

Mielat Asrat

Owner

Mielat Asrat Insurance Agency

Mike Cotzas

Orthodontist

Orthodontic Associates of New Canaan

Mohamed Shehata CEO

Goldenrods LLC & Automotive Industry Consultancy and Training

Mohammad Housini

DO/Ph.D. Candidate and Neurobiologist

University of North Texas Health Science Center

Mr. Lakshman Lakshmanan Managing Director

Alvarez and Marsal

Najib N. Abusalbi Scientist

Retired

Nancy J. Keogh

Psychologist

Keogh Bendo and Associates

Naseh Nawabi Doctor

Walking Urgent Care Inc

Nathan G. Epler Chief Executive Officer/Co-Owner

American Muscle Factory LLC

Nicole McConnell

Obstetrician Gynecologist

Women’s Care

Nirat Beohar

Interventional Cardiologist and Professor of Medicine

Mount Sinai Medical Center

Olumuyiwa Ibikunle

Geriatrician

Atlantic Medical Group Hospitalists at Overlook

Paityn R. Jansen

Project Engineer

Holland Construction Services

Pamela Milburn

VP, Payer Partnerships Path Mental Health

Parker G. Barnett

Chiropractor

Hamilton Mill Chiropractic Center

Parveshpreet Singh

CEO

Royal Executive Limo

Paul Byrne

Obstetrician/Gynecologist

Square Care Medical Group

Paula B. Wolfer

Psychologist

Bruce W. Carter VA Medical Center

Pedro Quesada

Dentist and Owner

Dr. Quesada & Associates, PA

Peter Miller

Field Director

Cape Fear Council, Boy Scouts of America

Peter John Jago

Co-Founder Managing Director

GCF Development.com

Pierre-Yves J. Sonke

Radiologist

Westchester Medical Center

R. Eugene Ramsay

Neurologist and Owner

International Center for Epilepsy: Treatment, Research, and Education

Raj Nair Director of Retail Banking

TruMark Financial

Ralph L. Cook

Owner

Precision Dental Designs

Ramineh Kangarloo

Dentist and Owner

Sweet Smiles Dentistry

Ramon Manglano

General Surgeon

Duly Health and Care

Reed Martin Moeller

Owner, Chiropractor and Acupuncturist

Forest Park Chiropractic & Acupuncture Center

Ricardo T. Carter

Hematologist-Oncologist

Ricardo Carter, MD

Richard D. Southgate

Orthopaedic Surgeon

Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital

Rita J. Grogan

Owner and Psychiatrist

Rita J. Grogan, MD

Robert Torrey

Urologist

Loma Linda/Dr. Robert R. Torrey Jr., MD

Robert A. Toscano

Managing Partner

Stratosphere Management Consulting

Robert A. Wunsch

Dentist

Reading Family Dental Center, LLC

Robert G. Veligdan

Dentist

Robert G. Veligdan DMD

Ron Kopels

Owner and Architect

Ron Kopels Studio

Rose M. Johnson

Owner

Rustic Rose Assisted Living

Ryon Hennessy

Orthopedic Surgeon

Dr. Ryon Hennessy MD

Sahibu Sultan M. Habeebu

Pediatric Pathologist

Children’s Mercy Kansas City

Sally A. Campbell

Environmentalist/President

S.A. Campbell Associates

Sarah K. Rapoport

Otolaryngologist/ Laryngologist

Washington DC VA Medical Center

Scott K. Rineer

Emergency Physician

Manatee Memorial Hospital

Shannon S. Yerkic

Chief Executive Officer

TruMantra Education Group

Silva Lila

Director of Operations

Great Lakes Spine and Orthopedics

Stacy White

Vice President of Operations

Longship Group

Stephen Levine

Psychologist and Owner

Center for Emotional and Cognitive Well-Being

Stephen Moore

Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiologist

The Medical Center at Bowling Green & Commonwealth Regional Specialty Hospital

Stephen G. Farkas

Regional Director, Mid-Atlantic BriefCam

Steve McKenzie

Family Doctor

Mayers Rural Clinic

Steven Sanchez

Senior Vice President of Casualty

Underwriting

Tradesman Program Managers

Steven J. Alves

Attorney

The Alves Law Office

Steven T. Thompson

Instructor

McHenry Community High School District 156

Susan J. Seman

Osteopathic Surgeon

The Dr. Susan Seman Solution

Susan Rabin Hymers

Owner & President

Creative CopyWriting

Susan T. Wolgamott

Partner and Family Nurse Practitioner

Scope Medical Group

Taryn M. Proudsworth Owner

Salt and Sage Massage

Terence N. Mukonje Hospitalist

IU Health Southern Indiana Physicians & IU Health Bloomington Hospital

Terri Ellen Bigler

Internal Medicine Specialist

Mercy Medical Group

Thomas Handy

Local News Writer and Freelance Stock and Cryptocurrency Partner

NewsBreak and Webull Financial LLC

Tiffiany Frazier CEO

The Tiffiany Institute

Todd Ochs

Pediatrician

Ravenswood Pediatrics

Toks Adekoya

VP Global Merchant and Network Services Risk

American Express

Tony L. Williams Owner DYNOX LLC

Tyrone L. Thomas

Strategic Partner and Business Optimization Specialist

Schooley Mitchell

Victor E. Coba

Critical Care Physician

Tampa General Hospital

Victor J. Maggitti Jr. Owner and President Vimco Inc.

Virgil R. Hazelett Retired Local Government and Public Service

Von Williamson

Vice President of Operations

Victory Supply Inc

William Schultz

Vice President of Operations

SCE Environmental

William Wallace

CEO

Historical Triangle Driving School

William J. Dunn

Vitreo-Retinal Surgeon

Central Florida Retina

Yasmine M. Elamir

Endocrinologist/Co-Founder

MM Jersey City Breathing Center & Jersey City Medical Center/Weight Loss

RX

Yehuda Lehrfield

Dentist and Owner

The Smile Design Center of Dr. Yehuda

Lehrfield

Yvonne Conti-O’Brien Owner Red Rooster Cookie Jar

Thomas Handy

Local News Writer and Freelance Stock and Cryptocurrency Partner NewsBreak and Webull Financial LLC El Paso, TX

An accomplished professional and decorated Army Veteran, Thomas Handy is prominently featured in The Inner Circle and is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Platinum Professional for his contributions to the fields of Journalism, Investing, and Military Service in the U.S. Army.

As a recognized leader with a multitude of skills, Mr. Handy touts incredible success as a writer/ journalist, investor, entrepreneur, and career Army Veteran. He later studied abroad as an exchange student both at Sogang University and Norwich University where he received his Bachelor’s degree in Political Sciences with dual minors in English and History. The business professional earned a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Central Michigan University and most recently obtained certification in Business Administration and Management from edX with Harvard University. Entering the service in 1996, he studied military science and operational studies at the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College.

Mr. Handy was encouraged to pursue journalism when his writings in Medium received accolades. The author said, “I was recognized for being an excellent writer and that queued my journalism career”. Specializing in politics and investment, Mr. Handy currently works as a local news and investment writer with Newsbreak; is a freelance investment writer for Medium and cryptocurrency start-ups; and freelance stock and cryptocurrency partner with Webull Financial LLC. With more than 20 years of service in the military, Mr. Handy rose to the posts of Headquarters Chief of Staff and Brigade Senior Intelligence Officer while simultaneously pursuing his writing career. He is an author with countless publications, including “How to Earn a Million While Serving” released in 2019, and articles published in several military publications, including Army Magazine; The Fort Polk Guardian; and the Military Intelligence Professional Bulletin. Mr. Handy was also picked as an Ambassador for Daymond John and helped promote his last two books, “Rise and Grind and PowerShift”.

In addition to his journalism career, Mr. Handy has been a cryptocurrency adviser for Sun City Investment LLC since 2017 and a real estate investor with the same company since 2004. A renowned leader and Renaissance Man, he has been featured twice in Money Magazine and was interviewed by both the Army Times and Morning Brew. As a thriving multi-disciplined professional, Mr. Handy explained that he entered the fields with a lot of luck and effort. “I was pining around different job industries for a while, simultaneously writing in my spare time.” When asked what advice he would give to someone starting out in his industry, Mr. Handy asserted, “You just have to be patient and feel content with starting at zero. It will only go up from there.”

Always seeking to serve, Mr. Handy was president of the Borderplex Veterans Business Administration from 2019 to 2022 and in 2016, was recognized by the military with the prestigious Meritorious Service Medal. He has also been named the #1 Yelp representative from 2016 to today. A testament to his drive, when asked if he would change anything about his career journey, he replied, “when I got out of the Army, I wished I started looking for opportunities earlier.”

Aside from his professional pursuits, Mr. Handy is very family oriented and is married to Narichia Handy, who is the Principal of Bliss Elementary School. They have two children, Thomas Handy III, who attends Franklin High School; and Hannah Handy, who attends Hornedo Middle School. While he is still pursuing more professional opportunities, such as owning an apartment and investing in new properties, he enjoys exercising and eating; reading; watching movies with his family; visiting businesses; and supporting local charities.

THE INNER CIRCLE SPOTLIGHT MEMBERS

Bharat Kothakota, MD, MPH

Emergency Physician/Owner

Self Care LA & Beyond Harmony Med Spa

Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles, CA— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Bharat Kothakota is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions as an Entrepreneur and Emergency Physician.

Dr. Kothakota began his educational journey in St. Louis where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance at Washington University in 2001. He then completed a Post Baccalaureate program in Pre-Medicine at the University of Maryland in 2004 and a Master’s degree in International Public Health from George Washington in 2005.

The doctor continued his education at Howard University College of Medicine where he obtained his Medical Degree in 2009. He then completed his Internship in General Surgery at Howard University Hospital in 2010, and his Residency in Emergency Medicine at Lincoln Medical & Mental Health Center in 2014 before moving to Los Angeles.

With more than 10 years of experience in his field, Dr. Kothakota, fondly referred to as Dr. K by many of his patients

and colleagues, is a Board-Certified Emergency Physician specializing in aesthetic injections and procedures. He is also the owner of Self Care LA, a boutique aesthetics medical spa in Santa Monica and the Medical Director of Harmony Med Spa in Valencia, California. He notes that Emergency Medicine, also known as trauma and emergency medicine, is the medical specialty concerned with the care of life-threatening medical conditions or injuries requiring immediate medical attention. Emergency physicians are trained to care for a wide range of problems that require emergent medical help. These problems are often serious and may be life-threatening.

Dedicated to providing the highest quality and latest treatments to patients, Dr. Kothakota and his team at Self Care LA specialize in using the latest energybased treatments to produce exceptional improvements for the skin and body. They offer options like Clear + Brilliant® fractional treatments, EvolveX body contouring, and CoolSculpting®. He notes that Self-Care LA on Montana Avenue has a physician focus on aesthetic and injectable services. Adding to his extraordinary experience in the field, Dr. Kothakota has served as the Medical Director of Sollis Health in Beverly Hills, a concierge practice specializing in Emergency care (2021-2022). There, he was committed to accommodating the various unique needs of his members. He also served as the Medical Director of the Emergency Room at Olympia Medical Center (2015-2021).

The doctor and his team at Beyond Harmony Med Spa offer numerous treatments to help their patients feel

confident, including Botox and fillers; PDO thread lift; body contouring; laser Lipo, CoolSculpting ®; laser hair removal; laser skin resurfacing; tattoo removal; and more. With skill and precision, the spa’s purpose is to enhance each individual’s natural beauty and to give them the confidence that they need and deserve.

Inspired by his wife who asked him to treat her with Botox injections, Dr. Kothakota started a career in Medical Aesthetics. He has performed hundreds of procedures and has spent countless hours perfecting his craft in Medical Aesthetics. A testament to Dr. Kothakota’s commitment to excellence, he is a member of the American College of Emergency Physicians and is boardcertified in Emergency Medicine by the American Board of Emergency Medicine (ABEM). The doctor notes that the ABEM certifies Emergency Physicians who meet its educational, professional, and examination standards.

In addition to his business and medical success, Dr. Kothakota’s case report and literature review of a dissecting thoracic aneurysm in a 16-year-old boy presenting to the Emergency Department is published in the February 2014 Journal of Emergency Medicine. The doctor attributes his success to thinking outside the box and earning best practices from others.

In his spare time, Dr. Kothakota enjoys time with his family, outdoors, travel, and dining out. He would like to dedicate this honor to Bhumika and thanks her for her love and support, and also in loving memory of his mother, Rama.

James P. Oberman, M.D., FACS, EMBA

Otolaryngologist

Frederick Breathes Free Sinus and ENT Center Frederick, MD

Frederick, MD— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, James Oberman is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the field of Otolaryngology and service in the US Navy.

Dr. Oberman pursued higher education at Boston College where he was an exceptional student earning the designation of summa cum laude and was a member of Phi Beta Kappa and Alpha Sigma Nu. He then attended Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, MA in 1996 where he received his medical degree and completed his Executive Master’s in Business Administration (EMBA) degree in 2022 from Quantic University. A dedicated leader in both the medical field and military, the doctor completed training at the Naval Undersea Medical Institute (NUMI) In Groton, CT and the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center in Panama City, FL in 1997. His operational tours for the US Navy include Submarine Squadrons SIX; EIGHT in Norfolk, VA; and the Senior Diving. Dr Oberman completed his Pediatrics Internship/General Surgery Internship/ and Otolaryngology residency training at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, VA. And completed two tours as a staff Otolaryngologist in both Okinawa, Japan and Jacksonville, FL.

While in the military, Dr. Oberman served as a medical officer for Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group TWO in Little Creek, VA. He also served as the Tidewater Regional Diving Casualty and Clinical Hyperbaric Expert Consultant, and also covered for the SUBLANT Senior Medical Officer. He also established a

SCUBA training program for submarines on the waterfront; was deployed on the USS Narwhal submarine receiving his submarine medical officer qualification; and performed underwater explosive surveillance during OPSAIL 2000 in NYC harbor, summer 2000.

A leader in his field, the doctor has chaired numerous hospital committees and served a two-year term as the President of the Medical Staff from 20102012 at Naval Hospital Jacksonville, FL. He also served as their Communication in Healthcare Course Director. Board certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, Dr. Oberman was an Associate Professor of Surgery at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences from 2011-2017 and was selected by the USN Surgeon General to be the US Navy Otorhinolaryngology Specialty Leader, responsible for all decisions affecting the 100 ENT surgeons across the globe. Earning the rank of Captain, Dr. Oberman also received a scholarship grant in September 2013 from the American Academy of Otolaryngology/ Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO/HNSF) recognizing his as a “young physician leader.” He was also recognized by Jacksonville Magazine as “Best of Otolaryngology in 2011.”

In addition to his exceptional civilian career, Dr. Oberman was named National Capital Region Medical Directorate’s Inaugural Clinical Quality Officer. While in this position, Dr. Oberman authored the five-year quality action plan for the National Capital Region, which included piloting a communication in healthcare curriculum. The doctor notes that the success of the program ultimately lead to market-wide expansion in 2016 and he continued to serve as the Clinical Champion and Course Director for the program. This program is cited often as an innovation/best practice throughout the entire Military Health System.

A testament to his elite experiences and education, Dr. Oberman was handselected in 2015 by the Navy Admiral to serve on her staff in the USN Medical Corps Chief’s Office as the Medical Corps Career Planner serving as the

principal mentor and advisor to over 3,700 Navy Medical Corps Officers. Part of his responsibilities included providing counsel on all aspects of professional development and career progression. During his two-year tenure, he focused on talent management and served as a staunch advocate for USN physicians.

The doctor was also Region Otolaryngology Product Line leader from 2015-2016 and was clinical faculty at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and Fort Belvoir Community Hospital from 2014-2017. Recognized for his expertise, he serves as a national faculty member for the Institute for Healthcare Excellence (IHE). He recently collaborated with national healthcare leaders generating a white paper targeting physician burnout and provider resiliency.

Retiring from the US Navy in 2017, Dr. Oberman joined the Becker ENT practice, an affiliate of the University of Pennsylvania System in Princeton, NJ, and was appointed the inaugural Medical Director for the Patient Experience at the Princeton health system campus of the University of Pennsylvania. He transitioned closer to family in 2018 and joined the Frederick Health Medical Group where he was instrumental in establishing their inaugural Otolaryngology department. He is coowner of the Frederick Breathe Free ENT Center, an affiliate of the National Breathe Free Sinus and ENT Centers and operates as the only surgeon, supervising three Physician Assistants and a staff of 16 personnel, and credentialed at Holy Cross Germantown Hospital in Germantown, MD.

A highlight of his career, the doctor was honored by ZocDoc as a TOPDOC for 2022 and 2023 based upon top 1% national google patient satisfaction surveys. He was also recognized as the USN-wide “Undersea Medical Officer-of-the-Year for 1999.” He retired from US Naval Service after 25 years in 2017.

Dr. Oberman is married to Margaret (Meg) Ann Perusse Oberman, MD, MPH, FACP of Litchfield, CT. They currently reside in Poolesville, MD and have three children Connell (age 23), Aidan (age 21), and Bridget (age 17).

Mary

Zupanc, MD, FAAN, FAAP

Pediatric Neurologist and Pediatric Epilepsy Specialist

Clinical Professor, Department of Neurology

Division of Pediatric Neurology

University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health

Madison, WI

Madison, WI— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Mary Zupanc is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Healthcare Professional for her contributions to the field of Pediatric Neurology and Epileptology.

Dr. Zupanc pursued higher education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1974 where she received her undergraduate degree in Zoology. She then completed a year of research in genetics in Los Angeles before entering the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and completing her medical degree in 1979. She completed pediatric residency training at the University of Washington and Harbor–UCLA Medical Center and, under the mentorship of Dr. Raymond Chun, finished pediatric neurology training at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She has since served in the epilepsy divisions at the Mayo Clinic; Columbia University; the Medical College of Wisconsin; and the University of California-Irvine, collaborating with colleagues to develop pediatric epilepsy programs. Dr. Zupanc has recently relocated to Madison, Wisconsin. She is currently a clinical professor at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, engaging in patient care, clinical research, and mentorship of medical students, residents, and fellows.

Dr. Zupanc explained that neurology is a branch of medicine dealing with disorders of the nervous system. A child neurologist, or pediatric neurologist, is a doctor who treats children who have problems with their nervous system. The problems in the nervous system can start in the brain, spine, nerves, or muscles and can lead to

problems such as seizures, headaches, or developmental delays.

An epileptologist, Dr. Zupanc is a neurologist who specializes in the treatment of epilepsy and has expertise in epilepsy and seizure disorders; antiseizure medications; and special situations involving seizures, such as cases in which anti-seizure medications have failed. In these cases, a pediatric epileptologist may offer epilepsy surgery or neuromodulation to improve seizure control.

Board-certified in clinical neurophysiology, epilepsy, neurology with special competence in child neurology by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN), the doctor explained that the ABPN is a not-for-profit corporation dedicated to serving the professions of psychiatry and neurology. Dr. Zupanc is also board-certified in pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics, whose mission is to advance child health by certifying pediatricians who meet standards of excellence and are committed to continuous learning and improvement.

Through her leadership and vision, Dr. Zupanc has developed comprehensive epilepsy programs in several academic institutions across the country, including the University of Wisconsin, Mayo Clinic, Columbia University, Medical College of Wisconsin and the University of California— Irvine/CHOC Children’s Hospital of Orange County. During her tenure at CHOC, Dr. Zupanc grew the pediatric neurology division from four physician subspecialists to 16 subspecialists in areas such as epilepsy; sleep disturbances; movement disorders; concussion; stroke; and autism. This resulted in the reorganization and consolidation of the neurology division with the neurosurgery division, becoming the CHOC Neuroscience Institute. Dr. Zupanc served as the Co-Medical Director of the CHOC Neuroscience Institute until 2020.

Dr. Zupanc asserts that “one of the wonderful things about child neurology is that you often embark on a decades-long journey with families. You transform a child’s life and a family’s life. That’s what this profession is all about, and why it has always been more than a job for me. It’s a calling.”

Dedicated to providing the latest advancements to her patients and students, Dr. Zupanc is a member of the Epilepsy Foundation of America; the

American Medical Women’s Association; the American Medical Association; the American Academy of Pediatrics; the American Academy of Neurology; the Child Neurology Society; the American Epilepsy Society; Physicians for Social Responsibility; and International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War. She is also on the Board of Directors for the Child Neurology Foundation.

Recognized nationally and internationally for her scholarship and contributions to pediatric neurology, Dr. Zupanc has presented at numerous recognized lecture series and is a highly sought after speaker. She has published a plethora of articles in peer-reviewed journals, most notably Neurology and Pediatric Neurology, regarding pediatric epilepsy surgery and outcomes; the efficacy of felbamate in the treatment of intractable epilepsy; and infantile spasms. She has also authored book chapters on pediatric epilepsy surgery and reproductive health in adolescent girls with epilepsy.

Engaging in advocacy for her patients, Dr. Zupanc supports children and their families, both at the bedside and working as part of larger organizations. She is recognized as an excellent clinician. She has moved the field of epilepsy therapy forward; built two large and successful divisions of child neurology; and has been a successful educator.

Aside from her professional pursuits, Dr. Zupanc has done medical mission work in Slovenia, India, Vietnam and Armenia, where she has taught and delivered medical care in remote areas. She has also been involved in family and community outreach to the underserved in the United States, including Native Tribes, Hmong refugees, inner city Black and Latino communities.

Dr. Zupanc considers the Arnold P. Gold Foundation Humanism in Medicine Award (awarded by the Child Neurology Society at their annual meeting in October 2021) to be the highlight of her career. She has earned many more awards for teaching recognition and clinical care at each of the major institutions she has served. “You may be the greatest scientist in the world, but if you don’t have empathy and compassion for patients and families, you can’t advance the field of medicine. To me, as a clinician bringing science to the bedside – this is the ultimate award” says Dr. Zupanc.

Yasmine M. Elamir, MD

Endocrinologist/Co-Founder

MM Jersey City Breathing Center & Jersey City Medical Center/Weight Loss RX Jersey City, NJ

Jersey City, NJ— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Yasmine Elamir is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions to the field of Endocrinology Obesity and Metabolism.

Dr. Yasmine Elamir is a highly accomplished double board-certified Endocrinologist and Internist, currently practicing in Jersey City, New Jersey. A proud New Jersey Native, she obtained her undergraduate degree from Johns Hopkins University in Philosophy before obtaining her medical degree at Ross University. Dr. Elamir then completed her Internal Medicine residency at Jersey City Medical Center, during which she took on the role of lead investigator in a study exploring Diabetes Among Responders to Hepatitis C Treatment.

Driven by a passion to address the pressing need for more endocrinologists and motivated by a strong personal family history of diabetes and obesity, Dr. Elamir went on to complete her Endocrinology fellowship at The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, affiliated with Mount Sinai Beth Israel. She excelled during her fellowship, serving as Chief Endocrinology Fellow while publishing a review article on Diabetes and Bone health in the Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma and was the lead investigator in a prospective randomized clinical control trial exploring Calcitriol in the Treatment of Covid-19, with results published in the prestigious Bone Journal

and cited in peer review journals over 30 times in the past year. In addition, Dr. Elamir has presented her findings at over 20 poster presentations, 16 online publications, and 8 oral presentations during her training. Dr. Elamir’s contributions to the field of endocrinology extend beyond research, as evidenced by her recent book chapter publication titled Endocrinopathies in Covid-19 in the Third Edition of “A Case Based Guide to Clinical Endocrinology.” In her private practice, Dr. Elamir specializes in diabetes and obesity with a focus on GLP-1 Agonists and Mindframing techniques to achieve weight loss that stays off.

During Medical School Dr Elamir met Dr. Samantha Shrouder and they have been best friends since their time in medical school. Dr. Elamir is a successful Endocrinologist with a thriving practice in New Jersey and a devoted mother of two. Meanwhile, Dr. Shrouder is an Attending Hospitalist Physician and a large hospital in South Florida and a loving mother of three. Dr. Shrouder takes great pride in leading the residency’s wellness program, which includes creating resident wellness workshops aimed at teaching stress management techniques and mindset training to ensure residents can thrive despite the demands of this challenging career.

As they pursued their individual careers, both doctors noticed that many of their patients with chronic diseases also struggled with their weight. They observed that weight management played a crucial role in preventing chronic diseases, especially during the critical period before the onset of the disease.

In 2016, the FDA approved the use of Semaglutide, a GLP-1 agonist prescription drug marketed under the brand names Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus. Although already approved for obesity and diabetes, insurance coverage is limited to patients already diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Merely 10% of insurances cover the medication for obesity, even though obesity is associated with insulin resistance, cardiovascular disease, cancer,

and fatty liver disease. Additionally, no insurance policies currently cover the medication for those who are overweight alone. Together with Dr Elamir and Dr Shrouder combining their experience using GLP-1 Agonists for weight loss and mind framing techniques they created My Weight Loss Rx, which ships GLP-1 agonists straight to the patient’s door with a digital tool kit providing mind framing techniques. They are currently serving New Jersey and Florida but are expanding quickly. Check out their website and blog at www.myweightlossrx.com.

When not in the office, Dr. Elamir enjoys spending quality time with her family. Together with her husband William, both former college-level competitive tennis athletes, they are raising their son Liam, daughter Olivia, and their beloved Bengal cat Ramses. Dr. Shrouder’s impressive academic background includes an undergraduate degree from Florida State University (Go Noles!), a medical doctorate degree from Ross University School of Medicine, and Internal Medicine residency training at Aventura Hospital and Medical Center. She has written and presented multiple poster presentations, including a notable presentation at the esteemed American College of Physicians Conference.

Dr. Shrouder is happily married to Ryan, and they are raising their three beautiful children, Madison, Mason, and Jackson, in Cooper City, Florida. Beyond medicine, Dr. Shrouder is also a Level 1 US Sailing Certified Instructor, and she has traveled the country as a competitive sailor and sailing instructor. In her spare time, she enjoys boating and all water-related activities with her loved ones and friends.

Dr. Elamir would like to thank her husband, Dr. William Grist, for his love and support and her Co-Founder Dr Shrouder’s husband Ryan for his love and support for Dr Shrouder to start My Weight Loss Rx. with her.

Check them out at www. myweightlossrx.com

Yaw Ababio Boateng, MD, Ph.D., FACP

Nephrologist

University of Utah Health and Hurricane Dialysis Center

Washington, UT

Washington, UT— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Yaw Ababio Boateng, MD, Ph.D., FACP, is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Healthcare Professional for his contributions to Nephrology.

Dr. Boateng pursued higher education at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology School of Medical Sciences (KNUST-SMS) in Kumasi, Ghana where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Biology. He also holds a Doctor of Philosophy degree (Ph.D.) in Clinical Pharmacology from the University of Aberdeen in the UK. After relocating to the United States, he completed his internship, internal medicine residency, and nephrology fellowship at the Montefiore Medical Center North Division/New York Medical College.

According to Dr. Boateng, nephrology is a specialty of medicine that involves the kidneys and practitioners like Dr. Boateng, have advanced training in treating kidney disease from diet and medication to renal replacement therapy. The doctor diagnoses and treats kidney failure and helps patients by prescribing medications,

offering particular diet advice, and coordinating dialysis care or kidney transplantation when necessary.

Dr. Boateng explained that he provides hospital and ICU consultations for patients who present with chronic kidney disease and hypertension primarily at St. George Regional Hospital in St. George, UT. He currently serves as the Medical Director of Davita Mojave Desert Dialysis Center and Davita Hurricane Dialysis Center, as well as an Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine at the University of Utah. The doctor notes that he has completed extensive research in the area of the use of natural methods of healing, which correlates to his sub-specialties that include general nephrology; ICU nephrology; all dialysis modalities (hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, and home dialysis); chronic kidney disease; electrolyte abnormalities; and hypertension.

With more than 23 years of experience as a nephrologist and 39 years of experience in the medical field, Dr. Boateng is affiliated with numerous medical facilities including the University of Utah Health; Dixie Kidney Clinic in St. George, UT; Iron Mission Kidney Clinic in Cedar City, UT; Hurricane Dialysis and Kidney Clinic in Hurricane, UT; and Mojave Desert Dialysis and Kidney Clinic in Mesquite, NV. He is also a renowned author who has published numerous articles in peerreviewed scientific journals, including the British Journal of Pharmacology; the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology; and the European Journal of Urology and Nephrology. He asserts that his most recent publication in October 2022 is a book called “Reverse Chronic Kidney Disease- How to Improve Kidney Function

and Avoid Dialysis” and it is available in eBook form and paperback on Amazon.

As a leader in the field with multiple responsibilities, Dr. Boateng manages DaVita Hurricane Dialysis Center which has 12 dialysis stations; a team of professionals to support their patients receiving dialysis; and the associated clinic that provides care for patients with kidney conditions that include chronic kidney disease, kidney stones, and other issues. The Mojave Desert Dialysis and Kidney Clinic is also under Dr. Boateng’s leadership and has ten dialysis stations; a kidney (nephrology) clinic in the building; and functions in a similar manner as DaVita Hurricane Dialysis Center.

Dr. Boateng is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians (FACP) and a member of the American Society of Nephrology. Board-certified in nephrology and internal medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM), he explained that ABIM is a physician-led, non-profit independent evaluation organization driven by doctors who want to achieve higher standards for better care in a rapidly changing world.

Aside from his medical pursuits, the doctor writes and publishes children’s books and currently has released three titles with Heinemann International. Dr. Boateng would like to honor the loving memory of his father, Stephen Oti-Boateng with this recognition. He has been married to Mrs. Cecilia Boateng for 39 years and they have three children. He would also like to acknowledge the guidance of his mentor, Jinil Yoo, MD, professor of Medicine at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York, and the continual blessings of Almighty God.

Elin Barth Berg, MD, Ph.D., F.A.P.A. Psychiatrist Berg Psychiatric, LLC Houston,

TX

Houston, TX— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Elin Barth Berg is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Platinum Healthcare Professional for her contributions to the field of Psychiatry.

Dr. Berg began her pursuit of higher education in Oslo, Norway where she earned a Bachelor’s degree at the young age of 17. She notes that she grew up with a goal to strive to be the best at whatever she put her mind to do, and so attended medical school at the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Oslo from 1968 to 1974. Continuing at the University of Oslo, she completed a residency in general and orthopedic surgery, finally practicing as an orthopedic surgeon in Norway and a clinical research scientist in the United States until 1992.

Board-certified in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Dr. Berg also earned a Ph.D. in Bioengineering from the Bowman Gray School of Medicine while also receiving medical training and later spent three months at Hoffman-LaRoche contributing to research on the extrapyramidal effects of Haldol. To meet the requirements to practice in the European Commonwealth, she completed one-and-a-half years of mandatory internship which consisted of a rotation of six months of surgery; six months of internal medicine; and six months of family practice. The doctor capped her surgical scholarship with an internship at a four-year general surgery residency; a one-year residency in neurosurgery; and a four-year residency in orthopedic and trauma surgery.

Recognized for her exceptional education and training, the doctor also spent two years as an assistant professor of orthopedic and trauma surgery. Adding to

her extensive education, Dr. Berg served as a research assistant in biomaterials with the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Bowman-Dray under Professor Anthony Gristina and worked on two NIH research grants in biomaterials in the field of related infection. In 1986, she completed her dissertation for her Ph. D. within the field of biomaterials as a joint effort between Bowman-Gray School of Medicine and the Institute of Surgical Research located in Oslo, Norway.

Following her move to the United States, Dr. Berg was hired to do research at the USC School of Medicine in 1988 while holding the Lunceford-Moore Chair of Orthopedic Research which she considers a pinnacle achievement of her career. Always seeking a challenge, the doctor decided to pursue psychiatry in 1992 and completed a residency in training in general psychiatry; a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry; and a fellowship in Forensic Psychiatry at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine.

Dr. Berg has served as chairman of the Department of Psychiatry at McLeod Regional Medical Center in South Carolina, a role which she considers another highlight of her career, and currently works in private practice through Berg Psychiatric L.L.C. Her responsibilities and expertise include treating patients; forensic work, including civil and criminal areas pertaining to children and adults; and custody matters. She exclusively offers telemedicine services to her clients.

A Diplomat of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN), she asserts that the ABPN is a notfor-profit corporation dedicated to serving the professions of psychiatry and neurology. The doctor explained that psychiatry is the medical specialty devoted to diagnosing, preventing, and treating mental disorders including various mood, behavior, cognition, and perceptions maladaptations. Psychiatrists like Dr. Berg evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients with mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders and conduct thorough psychiatric evaluations, develop treatment plans, prescribe medication, and evaluate treatment results.

Adding to her multi-faceted and successful careers spanning more than 50 years, Dr. Berg has been a medical director of a group home for juveniles who, because of mental illness, were diverted (subclass from the Department of Juvenile Justice and transferred to The SC Department of Mental Health).

She also has provided psychiatric services at the local detention center in Columbia, SC. She has served as a member of the Executive Committee of the Columbia Medical Society and the Disciplinary Board at the SC Board of Medical Examiners as well as President of the International Society of Aquatic Medicine; is a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association as well as member of The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and The International Society of Aquatic Medicine. Highly sought after for her extensive experiences and expertise, Dr. Berg has published work in peer-reviewed journals of orthopedics and has participated in writings in orthopedic textbooks. She has also presented papers to the Orthopedic Society; the Society of Biomaterials; Gordon Research Conferences; and has given presentations to the American Academy of Psychiatry and The Law and the Psychiatric Association.

The doctor is dedicated to providing the latest advancements in the field and is a member of the Texas Association of Psychiatric Physicians; Texas Association of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry; is a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association; American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry; and International Society of Aquatic Medicine. Of the many journals and journal articles authored by the doctor, she asserts that her favorite is her dissertation “Bioactive, Bio inert, Nonporous Bio Materials: Comparison of two Principles for Cementless Prosthesis Fixation“. The doctor’s work includes many peer-reviewed journal articles, orthopedic textbooks, and papers presented at various esteemed conferences and societies, including the Orthopedic Research Society; the Society of Biomaterials; and Gordon Research Conferences. She notes that she has also shared her expertise through presentations given to the Medical Society

of Law and the Psychiatric Association. The doctor strives to follow her philosophy that the most important aspect of anyone’s wellbeing is to have a purpose in life. Extending her leadership to civic duties, Dr. Berg also serves as a board member for Archway Academy which provides educational instruction at home for children struggling with addiction, and

Lin Morel

Chief Executive Officer and Founder Beyond Words Group Inc.

Uwchland, PA

Uwchland, PA—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Lin Morel is acknowledged as a Distinguished Professional for her contributions to the fields of Counseling and Spiritual Leadership.

To prepare for her career after earning a Bachelor’s degree, Dr. Morel attended the University of Santa Monica where she earned a Master’s Degree in Spiritual Psychology. She then attended the Spiritual Science Peace Theological Seminary where she earned a Doctorate in Spiritual Science. The doctor is an expert in spiritual psychology and specializes in stress; trauma release; domestic violence; and the grief loss spectrum.

Dr. Morel is both a national and international leader in spiritual

served as the program director for River Oaks Women’s Business Owners Club.

Dr. Berg would like to dedicate this honor to her mentors, Robert Milling, MD; Lisa Bryant, MD; and Richard Frierson, MD. She notes that their guidance and expertise have played a crucial role in shaping her professional journey and achievements.

Aside from her professional pursuits, Dr. Berg is an avid scuba diver and teaches

diving locally. Her favorite vacation place is in the Maldives where she enjoys scuba diving with the whale sharks and the Manta Rays. Dr. Berg has 3 children and 6 grandchildren, and her late husband Edward W. Berg, MD, was a professor of orthopedic surgery.

psychology and has been called a masterful and powerful vessel of light by those who have worked with her in her roles as a speaker; trainer; healer; and consultant/coach. She is a best-selling author and consultant to men, women, and children who have experienced trauma in their lives and notes that she has a comprehensive understanding of human development that helps her clients acquire heightened awareness, confidence, and the ability to move beyond challenges and into lives of greater personal and professional significance and fulfillment.

The doctor developed the W.I.N. protocol (Willingness, Intention, Neutrality) to assist individuals in dealing with traumatic events which she developed as an outgrowth of transforming her trauma. She asserts that her methodology has attracted executives; professional athletes; and individuals from various industries and backgrounds who desire to transform their lives, workplaces, and families. Her colleagues estimate that she has touched millions of lives throughout her career and continues expanding her reach to offer solutions to those whose potential is limited by unrecognized trauma.

A non-denominational minister and certified Spiritual Director, Dr. Morel previously worked as a buyer in the petrochemical field and a specification

writer and buyer at the N.J. Sports Authority. She also co-founded the Conscious Coach Training Program and the Academy of Asian Arts where she actively practices Ai Dao Kung Fu (Love Way Mastery), a system that promotes healing from trauma. The doctor is also a 5th-degree black belt; national karate champion; gold medalist; minister; visionary; and consultant. She asserts that she focuses on studying and applying energetic modalities, such as Qi Gong and Tai Chi, for energy management and the healing of the body, mind, and spirit. When considering highlights in her extraordinary career, Dr. Morel is most proud that she was a member of the first U.S.A. international goodwill and study program at the University of Beijing as a guest of the Chinese government and later returned to Taiwan to continue her practice and study of Tai Chi at the request of a master she met in Taipei. She has received numerous accolades during her career including 2010 Coach of the Year by ComprehensiveCoachingU.com. She has been featured on PBS; The Discovery Channel; NBC; “Your Second Fifty; the “Vastness of Being;” and The Dr. Nandi TV show. Most recently, she appeared in two docuseries: “Trauma” and Nathan Crane’s “Conquering Cancer.” Additional videos may be found at https://drlinmorel. com/media.

Tiffiany Frazier of The Tiffiany Institute to be Featured on Close Up Radio

MERRILLVILLE, INDIANA, UNITED STATES, April 20, 2023 /EINPresswire.com/ -- The Scripture Joshua 1:9 states the following. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Our guest, Tiffiany Frazier, has managed to have a successful career as a medical assistant, and more recently as a coach, despite her circumstances. She remained strong and courageous despite her hardships. This is her amazing story.

Tiffiany Frazier is the founder and award-winning confidence coach at The Tiffiany Institute, where she integrates her Christian faith, her many years of work experience, and her uncanny ability to overcome various challenging obstacles throughout her life. While she has spent the past twenty years as a medical assistant, she ultimately plans to focus on coaching full time with global objectives.

“As a confidence coach, my job is to help professional women over forty, like me, to pursue any goals and dreams that they want to achieve, but it does require confidence,” explains Tiffiany. “If you don’t have confidence in yourself, you will not conquer anything that you want to do. Basically, you will be miserable and unhappy. Sometimes people need a word of encouragement – a word of reason. I also am very compassionate and a woman of faith. I am a prayer woman and will pray for anybody. You need God, to drive you where you need to be in the coaching field.”

On Tiffiany’s website, she offers a number of packages for potential clients. – The You Rock Package, The Set Your Standards Package, and The Boss Premium Package.

“The You Rock Package is a standard package,” clarifies Tiffiany. “What I will do is a free consultation, and to make sure that I am able to help the client. With this package, they get two meetings a month with me – one in the beginning of the month, the other towards the end of the month. In between the

meetings, they will get e-mail support which contains affirmations to support and uplift them.”

“The Set Your Standards Package is similar to the You Rock Package, except that you have three meetings per month and you receive a motivational e-mail once a week, plus a weekly Power Call,” adds Tiffiany. “I will call you to see how you are doing and to give you some affirmations. Everybody needs a boost.

“The Boss Premium Package is the best,” explains Tiffiany. “Like The Set Your Standards Package, you get three meetings a month. You also get two motivational e-mails and two Power Calls per week. With that, I am available 24 hours a day. You also get prayer, as I am a woman of faith You get prayer whenever you need.”

Her faith has been an essential component of where she is now, despite her hardships.

“Back in 2005, my mom died of colon cancer, and I got pregnant with my daughter while my mom was sick,” recalls Tiffiany. “I did not know that mom had cancer until it was too late. It really hit me hard. A few years later in 2009, my father passed away. I had absolutely nobody. After that, the father of our daughter attempted to gain full custody, because he felt that I was going insane, as a result of burying my father. It was as though he waited for the right moment to hit me low. Even though he ultimately got physical custody of our daughter, I was still involved in her life. Presently, my daughter is 19, and we have the best relationship.”

“A few years ago, I had a conversation with Tony Robbins,” explains Tiffiany. “I wasn’t a confidence coach then. I was just thinking about it. I had reached out to his representatives, and eventually talked with Tony himself. I now follow him.”

“In 2021, I had a double heart ablation,” adds Tiffiany. “Immediately after dealing with that, I got COVID. I realized that I could have died due to my medical history. It was an eye opener. God gave me another chance. That is when I studied to become a coach. I took my past and turned it to good.”

In the short period that Tiffiany has been a confidence coach, she has acquired numerous recognitions. The Hoinser Group recognized her four times in 2022. First, as one of the 100 Top Inspirational Women of the Hoinser Queens Edition. Second, she made the Top 33 Inspirational Women. Third, she was featured in their Christmas Edition for the Ten Most Powerful Personalities. Fourth and final, she earned the overall title of Best Life Coach in the UK. She was also recognized by P. O. W. E. R. Magazine as a Woman of Empowerment in 2022, and as a Woman of the Month in March 2023.

Tiffiany is also in the process of writing a poetry book titled Blessed Novelties: Uplifting Poems. The book will be released within the upcoming weeks.

“Don’t let your past detour what you want to do in life,” concludes Tiffiany. “Don’t let that destroy you. Sometimes people end up not finding their way. They end up in situations where they don’t want to be. Then they regret it later. Get yourself together and work on what your final goal is – what your passion is and go for it without a doubt.”

Close Up Radio will feature Tiffiany Frazier in an interview with Jim Masters on Monday April 24th at 4pm Eastern

Listen to the show on BlogTalkRadio

If you have any questions for our guest, please call (347) 996-3389

For more information, please visit https://www.thetiffianyinstitute.com/

Bernice E. Muyskens Meagor Leader in Music and Music Education Alameda, CA

Alameda, CA—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Bernice E. Muyskens Meagor is acknowledged as a Distinguished Musician and Educator for her contributions to the field of Music.

Ms. Meagor attended Hope College in Holland, Michigan where she earned a bachelor’s degree in English and Music in 1960. She followed this achievement earning a public-school teacher certification and secured a Master of Theology at the Berkeley School of Theology in 1992. She was recognized for her excellence in music with the prestigious Jessie Day Drexler Scholarship.

Ms. Meagor launched her 10-year career in education working as an elementary school teacher and a high school English

Duncan Hartley

Owner

Duncan Hartley Fine Art Photography

Kendall Park, NJ

Kendall Park, NJ— Prominently featured by The Inner Circle, Duncan Hartley is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the field of Photography.

Dr. Hartley began his academic journey at the University of Michigan where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English History in 1964. He then completed a Master of Arts in English History at Wayne State University in 1966 and capped his scholarship at Wayne State University in 1971 where he graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy in English Literature.

teacher. She taught in public schools in South Dakota, Massachusetts, and California and spent more than five years as the assistant to the president at her alma mater— the American Baptist Seminary of the West (now Berkeley School of Theology) in Berkeley, California.

A highly sought after musician and educator, Ms. Meagor served as the music director, organist, pianist, and choir and handbell director at Castro Valley United Methodist Church in Castro Valley, California from 1994 to 2020. She then spent more than five years as an organist at Richmond’s First Baptist Church in Richmond, California and several additional years as an organist and choir leader at the American Baptist Church in Moraga California.

In her current post since 2020, Ms. Meagor is a pianist at the Alameda Christian Reformed Church in Alameda, California, a congregation that has existed in the San Francisco Bay area for approximately 100 years. In addition to performing at weekly worship services, Ms. Meagor plays for special occasions, weddings, and funerals as well as serving as an accompanist for solos and ensembles when needed. She has also directed

choir cantatas for Easter and Christmas celebrations for many years.

Inspired to play piano by her mother, Ms. Meagor’s passion for church music at an early age was amplified as the daughter of a pastor. She asserts that she is grateful to be able to offer her services to the church community for so many years and plans to remain active with the Alameda Christian Reformed Church for at least another five years.

Recognized for her expertise and service, Ms. Meagor received an Appreciation Award for Outstanding Leadership in Ministry and Music in 2002 and a Special Appreciation Award in 2008. Aside from her professional pursuits, she has been affiliated with the San Francisco Girl Scouts of America council for more than a decade as the assistant development director in charge of writing and submitting grant proposals and securing funding to support the nonprofit organization.

In her spare time, Ms. Meagor enjoys travelling to Colorado, swimming, church, and music. She would like to dedicate this honor in loving memory to her dear parents, Rev. George Bernard and Jannetta Den Hartog Muyskens.

With more than 65 years in the field, Dr. Hartley is a fine arts photographer and has exhibited more than 150 photographs through private collections and esteemed national museums, including the National September 11 Memorial and Museum. A highly respected photographer, he contributed his work to the book “The Little Italy,” and also authored “Shakespeare’s Living Cities.” Additionally, Dr. Hartley is author and coeditor of “The Sociology of the Arts,” and is a contributing author for “The Art of the CEO”.

Dr. Hartley is the owner of Duncan Hartley Fine Art Photography and began his career as the owner of Duncan Photography from 1955 to 1964 before working as an instructor in the department of English at Wayne State University from 1969 to 1971. He has also served in numerous positions across several establishments including:

working as an assistant professor at William Paterson University from 1971 to 1974; an administrator for educational resources for the Young Presidents Organization from 1973 to 1978; was the Director of Planned Giving at Carroll University from 1978 to 1980; and the Director of Capital Gifts with the Greater New York Council for the Boy Scouts of America from 1980 to 1984.

A testament to his leadership abilities, Dr. Hartley served as an executive director of the President’s Council and the Director of Individual Giving for Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center from 1984 to 1996. He was also the Associate Dean for Development and Alumni affairs at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine from 1996 to 2003.

Gayle Faulkner

Artist and Owner

Gayle Faulkner Fine Art

Overland Parks, MS

Overland Parks, KS— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Gayle Faulkner is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Life Professional for her contributions to the Field of Art.

Mrs. Faulkner pursued higher education at William Jewell College in Liberty, MO where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology in 1969. A naturally talented artist, she followed her passion and opened Gayle Faulkner Fine Arts.

She notes that she has enjoyed great achievement as the professional artist of the gallery where she displays her textured acrylic paintings using a palette knife on canvas along with modeling paste and acrylic gels.

Renowned for her influence in the art community, Mrs. Faulkner served as a speaker for various local and regional venues and has exhibited her artwork at the ArtsKC Gallery in Kansas City; the Las Laguna Art Gallery in California; and the Amsterdam Whitney Gallery in New York. The artist is particularly proud to be included in the prestigious Art in America Annual Guide; Observica Exhibizone Artistonish; Gallerium; Spotlight; the book Current Masters 6; the soon-tobe-released book ATIM’S Top 60 Masters 2022; and International Contemporary Masters Important World Artists 6. Mrs. Faulkner was also the Top Featured Artist in ATIM Magazine and recognized as an emerging and featured artist by the galleries that have shown her work, which she considers a career highlights.

Jake Lambert IV

Owner

1927xProductions

Missouri, TX

Missouri, TX— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Jake Lambert IV is acknowledged as a Distinguished Entrepreneur for his contributions to the field of Multimedia Production.

Mr. Lambert began his academic journey at Texas Southern University in 2015 where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering. He then attended Houston Baptist University and earned a master’s degree in human resource management in 2021. Attributing much of

his success to his dedicated work ethic and motivated attitude he is notably proud to have turned his hobbies in video editing and content creation into a thriving enterprise for himself.

With nearly a decade in the field, Mr. Lambert is a successful business owner and entrepreneur opening 1927xProductions in 2015. A multimedia production brand, he generates a wide range of unique content and primarily specializes in photography and videography collaborating with fellow creators on projects that illustrate creativity and resilience. Mr. Lambert also assists clients and customers with various technological needs.

Considered a highlight in his career, Mr. Lambert was recently featured in

A testament to her talent, Mrs. Faulkner has won numerous awards for her work including the Award of Excellence from the Spotlight Foundation and inclusion in their magazine and website. She has participated in various juried exhibitions and her work has been presented all throughout the United States and in private and corporate collections around the world. When considering her illustrious career, Mrs. Faulkner attributes much of her success to her hard work, the support of her family and friends, and her ability to share her art with the world. She asserts that she aspires to have her work recognized globally and hopes to expand and refine her craft. When not creating art, she enjoys spending time with her three children, four grandchildren and husband Glenn Hamilton. She is also a master gardener affiliated with Extension Master Gardner Johnson County Area; supports local and community charities; and spending time with friends. She dedicates this honor to her family and thanks them for their love and support.

CanvasRebel Magazine in 2022. Aside from his professional pursuits, he remains active as a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. with which he participates in numerous charitable endeavors.

Michael G. Cantwell

Artist

Michael Cantwell

Columbus, OH

Columbus, OH— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Michael Cantwell is acknowledged as a Distinguished Professional Artist for his contributions to the Fine Arts Industry.

Mr. Cantwell began his educational career at the University of Notre Dame where he earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Studio Art. He furthered his education at The University of South Florida where he received a Master of Fine Art and completed a thesis in Punk Art.

A testament to his talent, he received a National Endowment of the Arts Grant. Specializing in various mediums, including drawing, sketchbook, nature, people, computer art animations, painting oils, and binary series, Mr. Cantwell’s artwork has been displayed at the Ormond Beach War Memorial Gallery Show and his portraits in oil and computer art have worldwide acclaim.

Aside from his professional pursuits, Mr. Cantwell enjoys fly fishing; tying trout flies; is an art curator; likes to play golf; go biking and hiking; and is an amateur chef. The artist asserts that he is a unique blend of art and life experiences that have enabled him to create breathtaking artwork that speaks to the heart of all those who view it.

His

Robert Wilder

Pianist

Piano Bob Wilder

Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Ft. Lauderdale, FL — Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Robert “Piano Bob” Wilder is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Lifetime Member for his contributions as a pianist in the Field of Music.

Mr. Wilder obtained a Bachelor of Arts in History in 1967 from the University of Miami. He attended law school for a time and subsequently entered the family real estate business, Southland Associates. He discovered, however, that his calling

was playing piano in numerous genres, including jazz, jump blues, and rock traditions.

Mr. Wilder is known as “Piano Bob” and has played in front of nationwide audiences. He has released several critically-acclaimed albums that include “Piano Bob’s 88s – Big Beat Blues” and “John Carey and Piano Bob Back in New Orleans.” Some of the numbers Mr. Wilder performs are “Shake Rattle and Roll”; “Blue Monday”; Chuck Berry’s “You Never Can Tell”; and Huey “Piano” Smith’s “Sea Cruise.”

Mr. Wilder’s album “Piano Bob and the Snowman,” won the B.B. King Lucille Award from The Blues Foundation at the National Amateur Blues Talent Competition and considers that album and award to be a highlight in his career. He was awarded this honor at the W.C. Handy Blues Awards in Memphis. Mr. Wilder and his band subsequently toured with Mr. King at a string of concert dates and music festivals.

According to Mr. Wilder, his success is due to his love for the piano and dedication to playing blues. He was a music-lesson dropout in school and had to teach himself when he got older. He notes that he focused on his career in real estate, and music became just a hobby. The musician is very happy that he decided to play full time, and in the coming years, he hopes for the continued growth and success of his music career.

In his spare time, Mr. Wilder enjoys spending time with his family and being active in his local community. He would like to thank and dedicate this honor to his partner, Mary, for her love and support, and his father, Ben D. Wilder, in loving memory.

passion and dedication to the arts are truly an inspiration for all those who strive to make a difference in the world through their creative expressions.

Jean L. Cooper Principal Cataloger The University of Virginia Library Palmyra, VA

Palmyra, VA— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Jean L. Cooper is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions to the field of Library Technical Services and Genealogy.

Ms. Cooper attended Alma College where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Spanish. She then attended the University of South

Carolina where she earned a Master of Librarianship degree in 1983. With more than 40 years in the field, Ms. Cooper’s expertise and dedication have made her a valuable member of the University of Virginia Library community where she has served in numerous positions. She currently serves as Principal Cataloger and is a part of the Library’s Metadata and Discovery Services. She has played a vital role in ensuring that the library’s resources are properly organized and easily accessible to students, faculty and researchers, and staff.

Renowned by her peers for her exceptional service and knowledge, one peer was quoted as saying “Jean L. Cooper’s contributions to the field of library science are truly remarkable. Her dedication to her work, her expertise, and her self-publishing efforts make her an outstanding professional who has the ability to set a huge example as a mentor to others.” She is a member of

Susan Rabin Hymers

Owner & President

Creative CopyWriting

St. Aurora, CO

St. Aurora, CO— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Susan Rabin Hymers is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions to the fields of Journalism, Writing, and Editing.

Ms. Hymers began her higher education journey at the University of Arizona where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism in 1970. She capped her scholarship at the University of California Los Angeles between 1964 and 1965 where she completed a graduate course in creative writing.

Ms. Hymers launched her career in writing, editing, and journalism serving as a news bureau associate at the University of Arizona from 1968 to 1970. She was also active as an actress appearing in various

television and motion picture productions between 1975 and 1978. The writer formed her company, Creative CopyWriting, in Aurora, Colorado where she has served as the president since 1992, and was also a journalist. Ms. Hyners has more than 55 years of experience in the field and cites Kenneth Gelms and Sherman Miller as exceptional mentors.

A testament to her prolific excellence in writing, Ms. Hymers has been recognized throughout her outstanding career with many awards, including nine consecutive Outstanding Newsletter Awards between 1992 and 1995. Her love for writing began when she was five years old and she hopes to continue finding success in her field as both a writer and editor.

Aside from her professional pursuits, Ms. Hymers is a community pillar and collaborates with others in various fields outside of her immediate professional circles. She is also an educator, contributing to the University of Arizona School of Journalism in a volunteer

the Virginia Library Association and is a past member of the American Library Association. She was also recognized with the Virginia Genealogical Society Award for her excellent service and contributions to the field.

A testament to her expertise in library science, genealogy, and local history, Ms. Cooper has published several books, either with commercial publishers or her own publishing house, Shortwood Press. She has also published a number of historical texts for colleagues and local genealogical societies. Her publications have been well-received by both readers and scholars.

Ms. Cooper considers her 40-year tenure at the University of Virginia a highlight of her career. Aside from her primary occupation, she is a member of the Central Virginia Genealogical Association, for which she serves as editor of the newsletter and webmaster.

capacity in 1968 and has been affiliated with Women in Journalism since 1966.

Ms. Hymers hopes to continue writing for the foreseeable future. In her spare time, she enjoys vacationing in Vail, Colorado; skiing; writing; reading; and travel.

Thomas Handy

Local News Writer and Freelance Stock and Cryptocurrency Partner

NewsBreak and Webull Financial LLC

El Paso, TX

El Paso, TX— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Thomas Handy is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Platinum Professional for his contributions to the U.S. Army and as an Accomplished Writer. He will be featured on the cover of our Inner Circle magazine Summer 2023.

Mr. Handy launched his career and attended the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College where he studied military science and operational studies. After acceptance as an exchange student at Sogang University in South Korea, he went on to graduate from

Norwich University with a Bachelor of Arts in the Political Science with minors in English and History in 1996. The military professional earned a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Central Michigan University in 2004, and obtained a certificate in Business Administration and Management from edX with Harvard University in 2023.

A local news and investment writer with Newsbreak, Mr. Handy is an accomplished journalist, writer, and investor with expertise in writing about politics and investment. He is also a freelance investment writer for Medium and cryptocurrency start-ups and a freelance stock and cryptocurrency partner with Webull Financial LLC.

With the ability to diversify his skills to most financial topics, Mr. Handy has been a cryptocurrency adviser for Sun City Investment LLC since 2017 and a real estate investor with the same company since 2004. He is a published author having written “How to Earn a Million While Serving” in 2019 and his articles have been published in several military publications, including Army Magazine; The Fort Polk Guardian; and the Military

Intelligence Professional Bulletin. From 1996 to 2016, Mr. Handy served in the U.S. Army rising to the posts of Headquarters Chief of Staff and Brigade Senior Intelligence Officer.

Mr. Handy is highly revered in the financial business and has been featured twice in Money Magazine; was interviewed by both the Army Times and Morning Brew; and served as President from 2019-2022 and is now Executive Director of the Borderplex Veterans Business Administration. Mr. Handy was selected to serve as an Ambassador for entrepreneur and Shark Tank investor Daymond John to help promote his las two books, Rise and Grind and PowerShift. The professional author was recognized for many accomplishments during his time in the military, including the Meritorious Service Medal in 2016. Aside from his professional pursuits, Mr. Handy enjoys exercising; reading; watching movies; and traveling with his family while supporting local charities. He also likes to eat and visit businesses and has been the #1 Yelp representative from 2016 to today.

Brett S. Morris

Chief Executive Officer

Samaritan Fund Program Metairie, LA

Metairie, LA—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Brett S. Morris is acknowledged as a Distinguished Business Professional for his contributions to the fields of Business Management Development and Employee Benefits.

Mr. Morris began his educational career at The University of Southern Mississippi where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration in 2005 and was focused on financial planning and mathematics. He has more than 18 years of experience as a business manager and specializes in both nonprofit and forprofit business models.

Serving as the manager of the nonprofit Samaritan Fund Foundation, Mr. Morris’ responsibilities include raising and providing funds for those dealing with high-cost medical diagnoses. He also offers medical plans and insurance to those who would otherwise struggle to acquire such benefits.

A testament to his expertise in the field and diverse skills, Mr. Morris worked professionally in the insurance industry where he was the senior vice president of Alliant Insurance Services Inc. from 2018 to 2020. Prior to that post, he was the senior vice president of Regions Bank from 2014 to 2018 and an account executive for Fox Everett Inc. from 2010 to 2014. His extensive knowledge of employee benefits stems from more than two years as an employee benefits executive for Aparicio, Walker and Seeling Inc. between 2008 and 2010.

Mr. Morris attributes his success to his ability to overcome his own personal struggles, which he asserts has allowed him to grow stronger and better suited to help others do the same. He is most notably proud to have built his own company with the Samaritan Fund Program, as it has allowed him to help many individuals. In the coming years, Mr. Morris looks forward to further expanding his business and helping more people, including employees, employers and those living in underserved communities.

Victor Joseph Maggitti

Owner and President

Vimco Inc.

King of Prussia, PA

King of Prussia, PA— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Victor Joseph Maggitti is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the fields of Accounting and Construction Supplies and Accessories.

A successful entrepreneur, Victor Maggitti has more than 60 years of experience in the fields of accounting and construction supplies and accessories. Mr. Maggitti pursued higher education at Villanova

School of Business at Villanova University in Pennsylvania in 1956. He notes that from a young age, he naturally gravitated toward a career in the field of construction, having worked alongside his tenured father for many years, and ultimately partnered with his father to found Vimco, Inc. in 1960. Applying his business acumen, Mr. Maggitti has been instrumental in the exponential increase in business revenue in the company.

Mr. Maggitti asserts that he has cultivated a fulfilling career in the field of accounting for the construction industry, specializing in business finances and financial management. Based in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, he has served as the owner and president of Vimco Inc. since 1960 and has built the highly respected construction brand as a manufacturer and distributor of high-quality construction supplies and accessories.

Mr. Maggitti is primary responsible for the daily business operations of the company, which includes accounting; collaboration with other construction organizations and

product distributors to acquire tools and equipment for field work; and partnering with prestigious providers such as Allen Engineering Corporation; Kraft Tool Co.; and Zurn Industries LLC.

Alongside his professional pursuits, Mr. Maggitti has served as a founding member of the Associated Construction Distributors International (ACDI) since 1973 and notes that the association stands as a collaboration of independently owned and operated construction brands. He is also involved with his community through civic advocacy and notably donated $20 million to his university as part of their efforts to rebuild the library. The building was subsequently renamed the Vic Maggitti Library in his honor.

Among his many career accomplishments, the business professional is especially proud of the many ways he has expanded the company over the years. In the future, Mr. Maggitti hopes to see his children and grandchildren enter the family business.

Charles Peter Richardson

Owner

Lake Gaston Pizza & More

Henrico, NC

Henrico, NC— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Charles Peter Richardson is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the Food and Restaurant Industries.

Mr. Richardson launched his career at the age of 18 in the food and restaurant industries by joining his mother as coowner of the restaurant, Lincoln, in Petersburg, Virginia. began his career as the co-owner of a restaurant called Lincoln in Petersburg, Virginia. Although successful, the co-owners opted to close after one year of operation when his father passed away in 1989.

Recognizing a passion for owning and operating a restaurant, he subsequently obtained a diploma in culinary arts at Paul Prudhomme’s Louisiana School of Cooking and completed an internship at the Wyndham Resort in Richmond, Virginia. With his advanced knowledge of food preparation, he purchased a small sports bar and continued adding other restaurants for more than 10 years. He continued his pursuit of excellence by attending food preparation classes in Louisiana and Virginia. The catalyst for the creation of Lake Gaston Pizza & More was the purchase of a failing restaurant named The Lake House that he successfully re-established as Lake Gaston Pizza & More.

Mr. Richardson asserts that starting any business is a challenge, but the restaurant business is extremely difficult. He established Lake Gaston Pizza & More in 2016 with 800 sq ft and just 6 tables. He expanded the business in 2019 to 4,000

sq ft and 38 tables, then COVID hit. The entrepreneur said, “We struggled and proceeded to change with ongoing situations. Being in a seasonal Vacation area (Lake Gaston), we lost most of our tourism income. We kept adapting over the next few seasons to provide a wide variety of home-cooked meals to help with sales. After a two-year struggle, we made it to finally being able to use the 4,000 sq ft dining room. We’ve been blessed and very successful ever since.”

With more than 20 years in the field, Mr. Richardson’s restaurant offers southern-style food and pizzas inspired by his parents and boasts thousands of customers during the summer season alone. Located in the Food Lion Shopping Center in Littleton, North Carolina, he notes that they are dedicated to serving quality meals with the freshest ingredients available and providing excellent customer service. “From making fresh dough and cutting all of the vegetables daily to preparing southernstyle home cooked meals-everything from fresh seafood to homestyle cooking. We’re so much more than pizza, wings, and subs,” he said.

Mr. Richardson’s restaurant has been profiled in magazines numerous times and has received multiple Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Service from 2017 to 2019; Best Takeout from 2017 to 2019; Best Wings from 2017 to 2022; Best Pizza from 2017 to 2022; Best Server from 2020 to 2022; and best Sandwiches in 2018, 2019, 2021 and 2022. A highlight of his career, Lake Gaston & Pizza was recognized as the New Business of the Year in 2017.

“Our community has been gracious enough to support us so that’s why we are also extremely involved in giving back to our community,” he said. He is consistently updating his menu based on those of the restaurants he visits while vacationing away from the restaurant. He is especially proud that Lake Gaston Pizza & More is the largest dining facility on Lake Gaston in recent years.

A testament to his dedication to the community, Mr. Richardson established Lake-A-Palooza, a fundraising concert at Wabble Island, alongside country

music artist Colton James in 2016. The concerts, organized in surprisingly short order, helped to raise thousands of dollars for those battling leukemia; breast cancer; pediatric illnesses; and other serious ailments. Immensely successful, Lake-A-Palooza was cited among the Top Five Outdoor Concert Events in the Nation, and has attracted talent including Eric Dunlow. “We formed a 5013-C called “Wobble Island Inc” and have made generous donations to local Fire Departments; Emergency Response Teams; The Littleton Veterans Museum; as well as surrounding county residents. In 2016, I also started and continue to do a Christmas Toy that has given toys and monetary donations to VCU Children’s Hospital; Halifax and Northampton Child Protective Services; as well as local children in need of everything from hygiene products, clothes and toys,” he explained. Considered a generous and compassionate professional, Mr. Richardson has additionally supported a local nonprofit war museum in Littleton; local fire departments and EMT services; the Northampton County Child Protective Services; and Halifax County Child Protective Services.

Mr. Richardson has received many personal honors in addition to his professional accolades, including recognition in The Marquis Who’s Who for Owners & Philanthropists as well as one of their Top Professionals - Top Business Owners. Crediting his wife and staff for the success he has enjoyed, Mr. Richardson noted that he is also proud of his wife, Tami (Business Partner), and would like to let visitors as well as residents know that they are the type of restaurant that not only they can get a great meal with excellent service but that the staff also gets to know their name and makes them feel like family every time they come in. Their slogan is “ Lake Gaston Pizza & More-Come on Y’all....Ya’ Gotta Be Here,” he noted and added that they hear it from their customers every day.

He would like to dedicate this honor with special thanks to his wife, Tamara Richardson.

Christina Royer Chief Executive Officer Sky High Travel Kirkwood, MO

Kirkwood, MO— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Christina Royer is acknowledged as a Distinguished Business Professional for her contributions to the fields of Corporate Medical Conferences and Corporate Travel.

Mrs. Royer prepared for her career by completing coursework at Rend Lake College, Indiana University, and Logan University. She earned credentials as a certified travel associate through the Travel Institute and is presently working toward earning a certified

travel industry executive designation.

Mrs. Royer is an elected member of The A.L.L.I.E.S. Society and a prominent member of the Cruise Lines International Association and Travel Leaders.

Mrs. Royer is currently the chief executive officer of Sky-High Travel, an elite travel agency that she co-founded with her business partner Abbey Meyer in 2021. They have exceeded all expectations during their two and a half years in business, booking a record number of trips as a brand-new agency.

Aside from her corporate pursuits, Mrs. Royer, her partner, and her team of experienced travel advisors help clients from all over the country in their search for the perfect getaway. They work with individuals, families, and couples during all phases of life. Sky-High Travel provides free quotes and handles every detail of the itinerary from beginning to end. Mrs. Royer and her team also notably specialize in group travel, destination weddings, honeymoons, solo, land tours, and European travel, as well as cruises aboard some of the latest and greatest ships.

An expert in both corporate meetings and incentives and medical travel, Mrs. Royer authored a White Paper titled ‘The Importance of Attending Conferences as a Travel Professional.’ The article provides her expert advice as an executive with extensive experience in both industries.

Mrs. Royer is a member of the KirkwoodDes Peres Area Chamber of Commerce and is active with the Kirkwood School District Foundation. She said that Sky High Travel frequently gives back to local communities by volunteering her time and resources to nonprofit organizations throughout the Saint Louis area.

Excelling in her endeavors, Mrs. Royer’s company was named Best Travel Agency by Saint Louis Magazine and was included on its 2022 and 2023 A-List Award Winner. Sky High Travel is awaiting results for their placement with The Post Dispatch Headliner Award for 2023 and has been recognized as a top 3 recipient. She also established a sponsorship with Fox2 and the KTRS radio station and believes that her success is indicative of her strength and perseverance, and her determination to do business differently than other travel agencies.

David C. Williams

Managing Partner

Rader Funeral Home

Daleville, VA

Daleville, VA—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, David C. Williams is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions as a Funeral Director in the Mortuary Field.

Mr. Williams began his career in the mortuary field working for a local cemetery while he was in high school, where he performed various types of labor, including cutting the grass and opening and closing graves with a shovel. He continued his interest in the field by pursuing his education and graduating from the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary

Science in 1986. Upon graduation, Mr. Williams was tested and was certificated by the Funeral Service Examining Boards of The United States. He continued his education and received certification as a grief counselor for stillbirth and infant deaths. Upon completion of 180 hours of continued education and continuing to receive a minimum of 20 hours of continuing education annually, he was certified by the Academy of Funeral Service Practice as a Certified Funeral Service Practitioner in 1997. Mr. Williams has been a licensed Funeral Director and Embalmer in the State of Ohio since 1987, and licensed as a Funeral Service Practitioner in the Commonwealth of Virginia since 2009.

A dedicated leader among his peers, Mr. Williams is managing partner of Rader Funeral Home in Daleville, Virginia. He notes that the company specializes in providing funeral home, burial, and cremation services throughout Botetourt County and surrounding area, including pre-planning and immediate-need services. He and his team of compassionate experts are dedicated to helping clients and their loved ones create lasting memories in a comforting and inviting space.

A prominent business with historical significance, Mr. Williams asserts that Rader Funeral Home was established in 1898 is recognized as the oldest business of its kind in the entire county. The company opened a second location in Stewartville, Virginia during World War II and focused on expanding their full-service experience which was in operation until 1950. While they followed this expansion with another location in Buchanan, Virginia that was in service until 2001, The Rader Funeral Home now exists in just one location in Daleville since 1996.

Mr. Williams is considered an expert in grief counseling, with a focus on pregnancy loss, stillbirth and newborn deaths. He has also been an active mortuary officer for the Disaster Mortuary Operational Response Team of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Region V, for approximately two decades and believes that his success is due to his empathetic nature towards his employees and his many client families.

Mr. Williams would like to dedicate this honor to his parents, David and Charlene Williams Sr.

John W. Ziebarth

Partner

Perfect Game Productions

Cooperstown, NY

Cooperstown, NY— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, John W. Ziebarth is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the field of Theatre and Business Management.

Mr. Ziebarth began his educational journey at Hamilton College, where he completed coursework in biology from 1955 to 1958. He then attended Wagner College in 1960 and earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry. He capped his scholarship at Thunderbird School of Global Management graduating with a master’s degree in management, finance, and accounting in 1962.

Mr. Ziebarth launched his career as the director of international manufacturing at the Clorox Company, having initially served on behalf of Proctor & Gamble from 1962 until 1974. He later worked as the vice president of operations at American White Cross Laboratories from 1980 to 1990 where he played an instrumental role in expanding the company’s revenue from $3 million per year to over $12 million. Considered a highlight in his career, he is proud to have offered opportunities to various disabled employees, many of whom became highly productive because of his actions. Mr. Ziebarth followed this post as a managing director at Lexington Acquisition Associates from 1990 and 2010 and touts more than 15 years of experience as a consultant to multinational companies and governments overseas.

Mr. Ziebarth is currently a partner and producer at Perfect Game Productions, a regional theater company based in Cooperstown, New York, whose focus primarily concerns baseball history. An expert in both theater production and brand promotion, his theatre is set to premiere “The Great American Baseball

Tyrone L. Thomas

Strategic Partner and Business Optimization Specialist

Schooley Mitchell

Carmel, IN

Carmel, IN— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Tyrone L. Thomas is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the field of Business Optimization.

Mr. Thomas began his academic journey at Concordia University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management. He continued his scholarship at the Milwaukee School of Engineering where he received a Bachelor of Science degree.

With more than 23 years in the field, Mr. Thomas has served at several companies

in varied capacities, including his current position as the business optimization specialist for Schooley Mitchell, a telecommunications company. He previously worked as the chief executive officer of Valiant 1 Consulting and the director of operations for the Chassis Division of Fritz Winer North America LP. Early in his career, Mr. Thomas gained valuable expertise in the field with NTN Driveshaft Anderson, Chrysler Group LLC, and the Chrysler Kokomo Transmission Plant.

A testament to his professionalism and skills, Mr. Thomas won the Businessman of the Year Award through the Madison Chamber of Commerce in 2019, which has been one of the highlights of his career. He believes that the cornerstone of his success lay in treating people with respect.

Game,” which has garnered notable interest both domestically and abroad.

In most recent endeavors, Mr. Ziebarth was in a new production called “The Grand Slam”, a review of baseball history. This production will debut in Cooperstown, New York in 2024. In addition to his professional pursuits. He is fully dedicated to civic advocacy by serving as president of the High School of Art & Design.

Aside from his professional pursuits, Mr. Ziebarth was the treasurer and Vice President of the Friends of Art & Design, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the students of the High School of Art & Design in New York from 2008 to 2015. He currently serves as a member in the co-op board.

In attributed success in his work ethic and leadership skills, which have been provided by his parents, they are particularly proud of his productivity improvements resulting from coordinated efforts with the County Agency for the Disabled and American White Cross Laboratory in the 1980s.

Among his many successes, Mr. Thomas believes the experiences he has had in the field for more than 23 years is his greatest accomplishment. Aside from his professional pursuits, Mr. Thomas is on the board of directors for the Madison County Chamber of Commerce and contributes to his community through Rotary International and the United Way of Madison County. In the future, Mr. Thomas intends to experience the continued growth and success of his career and intends to create something that he can leave to his children.

Kimberly Gattuso Owner and Managing Partner

Dry Guys

Woodstown, NJ

Woodstown, NJ— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Kimberly Gattuso is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions as a Female Entrepreneur.

Ms. Gattuso began her academic journey at the School of Entrepreneurship in Seymour, Connecticut where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. Determined to grow and flourish, she is currently pursuing an MBA. With a strong work ethic and a sense of duty, she entered the work field at age 18 as a warehouse president’s assistant and then worked her way up through the ranks until she left in 2004 and started working at Dry Guys Basement Systems, where she eventually became the owner and managing partner of the basement waterproofing company based in Woodstown, New Jersey. She is certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration in applied microbial remediation and as a water damage restoration technician.

In her daily schedule, Ms. Gattuso’s responsibilities include leading company managers; ensuring that department key performance indicators are on target; networking; accounting; training; coaching; maintaining a team culture; and keeping vehicle fleets updated. Adding to her exceptional management skills, the entrepreneur worked as a Special Projects Manager; Sales Manager; Appointment Center Manager and Marketing Director at the company. She has been with the team for 22 years.

Considered a family business, Ms. Gattuso asserts that Dry Guys Basement Systems has 37 employees who are like family and she is adding to the staff at a rapid pace. She says employees feel special and have a sense of ownership. She encourages using paid time off for family time and employee life events, such as having a baby, birthdays, anniversaries, and graduations, as all are acknowledged and celebrated. According to Ms. Gattuso, she provides the tools employees need to perform their jobs efficiently and encourages individuals to show their greatness and bring it to the team to set each other up for success. She also trains staff on how to sell peace of mind by educating and advising homeowners to purchase what they truly need, not just sell to make a sale.

Attributing her success to her team, being self-motivated, and living by her military family mantra of “Just chase greatness,” Ms. Gattuso was named Small Business Leader of the Year by the Salem County Chamber of Commerce. She notes that she sets high team expectations and aims for “wow” customer service to be the standard in contracting. A rapidly growing business, the professional explained that Dry Guys Basement Systems has expanded into Pennsylvania, a new territory she hopes to dominate, and within the next decade, wants to grow into a $15 million enterprise. She explained that her confidence is based on longevity and consistently receiving excellent customer reviews. Ms. Gattuso wants the company to become a household name and saturate the overall industry market. She believes that this determination has earned her many awards and accolades, including Business of the Year from NJBiz.com and Best of Salem County from the New Jersey Senate and the New Jersey State Assembly which was presented by the Salem County Chamber of Commerce.

A leader in the field, Ms. Gattusos attributes continuous professional development; staying current with all industry certifications; and sharing her expertise outside of the company as the additional keys to her business

acumen and proven leadership. A highly sought after speaker, she has made presentations to and been active with the Salem County Chamber of Commerce, which often celebrates local women in business. As a member of the Business Education Committee of the Salem County Chamber of Commerce, Ms. Gattuso has facilitated multiple college presentations for business owners to help them improve. She has been very active in industry-related, communitybased projects and events during the last decade and has collaborated with April Follies; hosted social media workshops as part of the Second Friday Series with the Salem County Votech; supported the Taste of South Jersey fundraisers benefitting the Family Promise of Salem County; volunteers with the local Center for Family Services; and has joined the nearby Don M. Crawl Space and Basement Project.

As testament to her high expectations, the entrepreneur is continuously seeking professional development that has included a social media marketing conference with SkillPath; an advanced training certificate sales camp with Basement Systems, Inc.; BizWiz 2.0; certification as a Foundation Supportworks Sales and Marketing specialist; Sales and Management training at Supportworks, Inc.; and equipment operator training from OSHA.

Ms. Gattuso holds professional memberships with Business Network International; the New Jersey International Association of Certified Home Inspectors; Army Navy Unit No. 53 National Park in New Jersey; Toastmasters; and the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification. Also a civic leader, she has served on boards, volunteered, and financially supported local chapters of organizations that have remained close to her heart for decades, including Habitat for Humanity of Salem County; the Gloucester County chapter of Boy Scouts of America and the Ladies Auxiliary National Park in New Jersey; and Army Navy Unit No. 51, for whom Ms. Gattuso served as senior vice president.

Meaghan T. Ziemba

Owner

Z-Ink Solutions in Rockton Beloit, WI

Beloit, WI— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Meaghan T. Ziemba is acknowledged as a Distinguished Business Professional for her contributions to the fields of Technical Writing and Engineering.

Ms. Ziemba began her academic journey at the University of Wisconsin where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in 2008 and a Master’s degree in Professional and Technical Writing in 2015. She then completed an internship in journalism with the Irish American Post between 2007 and 2008 and received numerous credentials in her field including a certified ICAgile professional in digital project management through The Digital

Project Manager and in marketing and search engine optimization through HubSpot.

With more than 15 years in the field, Ms. Ziemba is a leading expert in copywriting, copyediting, and technical writing services and works with clients across various industries and brands within industrial manufacturing. She is the owner and operator of Z-Ink Solutions in Rockton and Mavens of Manufacturing. Based in Illinois, Ms. Ziemba asserts that Mavens Manufacturing is a premier podcast and video broadcasting series that seeks to empower future leaders in the manufacturing industry and serve as a voice for women in the industry. Recognized as an empowered female in business, Ms. Ziemba interviews various successful women and celebrates their unique stories.

Ms. Ziemba has extensive experience in communications and marketing and is the former chief marketing officer for 38th Street Studios. She was recruited from Fotofab and earned recognition as a marketing coordinator from 2020 to 2022 during which time she was responsible for lead generation; customer engagement; email campaigns; and more. Ms. Ziemba has also held other prestigious

posts working in content and project management positions at MakingChips; Advanced Machine & Engineering Company; and as a marketing communications manager at 3D Platform.

Ms. Ziemba asserts that she is proud of her success which she credits to her natural curiosity and willingness to step outside her comfort zone and is eager to continue expanding both companies. She contributes her faith and commitment to networking with other industry professionals for her extraordinary career.

Aside from her professional pursuits, Ms. Ziemba has served with Women of Today’s Manufacturing (WOTM) as a committee chairperson for educational programming. The organization was launched to support the creation and advancement of career paths for women in local manufacturing. Ms. Ziemba has also donated to organizations like Black Girls Do Engineer Corporation, an organization based in Houston that focuses on providing STEM programs to girls between the ages of six and 21 hosted by experts in the field. Focused on providing opportunities for women, she is a member of the International Society for Professional Women and Women in Manufacturing (WiM).

Caitlin E. Horton

Expert Winemaker

Horton Vineyards

Gordonsville, VA

Gordonsville, VA— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Caitlin E. Horton is acknowledged as a Most Trusted Business Professional for her contributions to the Winemaking Industry.

Ms. Horton pursued higher education earning a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice in 2020. She was influenced to study winemaking by her grandparents who made fruit wine in their cabin basement, and later entered the wine business obtaining her certification in winemaking from Cornell University in 2022. She notes that her grandparents invested in a winery and leased Montdomaine Winery and that her grandfather ultimately introduced grapes that are now considered staples of such brands as the Viognier, Cabernet Franc, Tannat, Grenache, and Petit Manseng, among others. Ms. Horton’s grandmother was the recipient of the Monteith Award, which is considered among the most prestigious accolades in the wine industry.

Featured in The Washington Post; Viva Weekly; Virginia Living; and Gone in the Garden, Ms. Horton has also received the prestigious Silver Award for her exceptional winemaking expertise. In the future, she hopes to continue building upon the legacy of her grandparents by producing high quality wines and expanding their current product line.

William Wallace CEO

Historical Triangle Driving School

Williamsburg, VA

Williamsburg, VA—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, William Wallace is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Lifetime Achiever for his contributions to the Education & Training Field.

Highly educated and trained, Dr. Wallace began his educational journey at The University of Louisville where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education and Technology. He also attended EmbryRiddle Aeronautical University and earned a Master’s in Business Administration

(MBA) degree. He completed his formal education at Walden University where he earned a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree. He is considered an expert in Educational Training.

A proven scholar, Dr. Wallace notes that he is a lifelong learner and educator with more than 40 years of experience leading, training, educating, coaching, and mentoring. He is a Harvard University JFK School of Business Senior Executive Fellow and is certified as a Black Belt in Lean Six Sigma, which post-graduate work in the National Strategy Studies program. Recognized for his leadership, he has been past director for the Board of Directors of the International Association of Continuing Education and Training and served on the Bylaws & Finance committees. Dr. Wallace is also a former examiner for the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award for Excellence sponsored by the U.S. Department of Commerce, and is currently a professional affiliate with the College of William and Mary.

Dr. Wallace has had the privilege of consulting with several esteemed organizations, including Walt Disney Inc., Duke University, Abrams Informational Systems, the American University of Cairo in Egypt, among others.

He is also an active contributor to the Commonwealth Catholic Charities of Virginia, St. Jude Hospital for Children, and the BNJ Foundation.

In addition to his numerous affiliations and posts, Dr. Wallace currently serves as the CEO of the Historical Triangle Driving School, LLC. located in Williamsburg. He is an Honorary Kentucky Colonel, is a member of Phi Delta Kappa International, and a member of the Gold Key Honor Society.

In his spare time, he enjoys family and friends, traveling, teaching, and learning. For additional information, visit https// www.historicaltriangledrivingschool.org

Keith Alex Greenaway

Chief Executive Officer/Co-Founder

Intelimas Corporation

Boston, MA

Boston, MA— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Keith Alex Greenaway is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the fields of Corporate Finance and Management Consulting.

Mr. Greenaway began his academic journey at Boston College where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Government in 1992. He then attended Georgetown University Law Center in 1996 where he received a Doctor of Jurisprudence. Landing a position right after graduation, Mr. Greenaway worked Buchanan Ingersoll and Rooney PC, a corporate finance associate, and followed as a senior associate with Hutchins, Wheeler, and Dittmar in 2000. A testament to his professionalism and abilities, he became the managing director of Opes Asset Partners in 2003 and accepted a role as the Director of the Boston Center of the Minority Business

Jeffrey Allen Cure

Owner

Jeffrey Cure Network Consulting

Oceanside, CA

Oceanside, CA— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Jeffrey Allen Cure is acknowledged as a Most Trusted Professional for his contributions to the Technology and Network Consulting Fields.

Development Agency of the United States Department of Commerce in 2015. During this time, he was also the managing director of the MBE advisory for the Greater New England Minority Supplier Development Council, Inc. from 2015 until 2021.

The chief executive officer and cofounder of the Intelimas Corporation, Mr. Greenaway is an expert in Corporate Finance and Management Consulting With more than 20 years of experience in the field, he manages corporate mergers and acquisitions and management consulting. He asserts that Intelimas is a growth-oriented original equipment manufacturer that Mr Greenaway creates and supplies a range of medical/surgical devices as well as pharmaceutical sector products.

Focusing his efforts on networking, Mr. Greenaway has built relationships with strategic partners to implement the company’s conceptual blueprint of delivering devices and finance solutions to aid therapeutic performance and establishing as a trusted source for respected for value, compliance, and efficiency. Mr. Greenaway is a recognized leader in the field and has served in

many authoritative positions over the years, including five years as Board President of the Dorchester Bay Economic Development Corporation; four years as an Advisory Commissioner appointee to the Governor Baker/Polito administration; and is a former member of the American Bar Association.

Mr. Greenaway notes that he is vigilant in his duties as CEO and Founder of the Intelimas Corporation and aims to grow the business exponentially through a combination of organic measures and inorganically through a variety of strategic initiatives, such as mergers and acquisitions. The ultimate objective is to steer Intelimas to its evolution as a significant national operator in the medical/surgical device industry that creates value for investors, employees, and partners.

Mr. Cure began his academic journey at Coleman College in 1984 where he earned a Bachelor’s degree. The owner and lead network technical manager of Jeffrey Cure Network Consulting, he specializes in technology and online connectivity consulting. Prior to this post, Mr. Cure served as a global network technical manager for AT&T Inc. from 1997 to 2021 and began his career in 1982, working as a contractor in naval supply systems for the United States military.

Aside from his professional pursuits, Mr. Cure supports community events and

serves as a volunteer firefighter. Hoping to further commit himself to finding solutions to global issues, he attributes much of his success to his adaptability and passion for his work and he is most proud to have revamped the corporate network of AT&T Inc.

Tiffiany Frazier

CEO

The Tiffiany Institute

Merrillville, IN

Merrillville, IN— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Tiffiany Frazier is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions to the field of Confidence Coaching.

An award-winning confidence coach, Ms. Frazier is founder of The Tiffiany Institute focusing her efforts on professional women over forty whom she helps to pursue any goals and dreams that they want to achieve. She explained “If you don’t have confidence in yourself, you will not conquer anything that you want to do. Basically, you will be miserable and unhappy. Sometimes people need a word of encouragement, a word of reason.” Ms. Frazier integrates her Christian faith, her many years of work experience; and her uncanny ability to overcome various challenging obstacles throughout her life. Inspired by personal tragedy, Ms. Frazier built her business using the pain to fuel her passion. “Back in 2005, my mom died of colon cancer and I got pregnant with my daughter while my mom was sick. I did not know that mom had cancer until it was too late. It really hit me hard. A few years later in 2009 my father passed away. I had absolutely nobody and after that, the father of our daughter attempted to gain full custody because he felt that I was going insane as a result of burying my father. It was as though he waited for the

right moment to hit me low. Even though he ultimately got physical custody of our daughter, I was still involved in her life. Presently my daughter is 19 and we have the best relationship,” she explained.

Prior to becoming a confidence coach, Ms. Frazier spoke with motivational speaker, Tony Robbins, who encouraged her to follow her dreams. She embraced the journey to becoming a confidence coach and continues to be motivated by Mr. Robbins. Crediting God for her success, Ms. Frazier had to have a double ablation in 2021 and immediately after, contracted COVID. She was well aware that she could have died due to her medical history and quickly recognized her return to health as God giving her another chance. The Tiffiany Institute is the manifestation of Ms. Frazier’s journey to seek the good and she notes that her faith has been an essential component of where she is now despite her hardships.

The Tiffiany Institute offers numerous packages for potential clients, which are featured on the business’ website. Ms. Frazier offers the You Rock Package; the Set Your Standards Package; and The Boss Premium Package.

The You Rock Package is a standard package that includes a free consultation to ensure she is able to help the client. If she deems that she can be a benefit to the client, she offers two meetings a month, one in the beginning of the month and the other towards the end of the month. In between the meetings, clients receive e-mail support, which contains affirmations to support and uplift them.

The Set Your Standards Package is similar to the You Rock Package except there are three meetings per month; a motivational e-mail once a week; plus a weekly Power Call to see how the client is doing and to give affirmations. “Everybody needs a boost,” according to Mrs. Frazier.

The Boss Premium Package is the best service, she notes. Similar to The Set Your Standards Package, clients receive three meetings per month; two motivational e-mails; and two Power Calls per week. With this package, however, she is available 24 hours a day and clients also receive prayer, as she is a woman of faith. “You get prayer whenever you need,” Ms. Frazier noted.

A testament to her success in the Confidence Coaching field, Ms. Frazier has received numerous recognitions, including four from Hoinser Group in 2022: 100 Top Inspirational Women of the Hoinser Queens Edition; Top 33 Inspirational Women; a feature in the Christmas Edition for the Ten Most Powerful Personalities; the overall title of Best Life Coach in the UK. She was also recognized by P. O. W. E. R. Magazine as a Woman of Empowerment in 2022 and as a Woman of the Month in March 2023.

Known as a very compassionate woman of faith, Ms. Frazier defines herself as a prayer woman willing to pray for anybody. “You need God to drive you where you need to be in the coaching field,” she asserted. Ms. Frazier also advised “Don’t let your past detour what you want to do in life. Don’t let that destroy you. Sometimes people end up not finding their way. They end up in situations where they don’t want to be, then they regret it later. Get yourself together and work on what your final goal is; what your passion is; and go for it without a doubt.

Aside from her professional pursuits, Ms. Frazier is in the process of writing a poetry book titled “Blessed Novelties: Uplifting Poems” and will be released in the near future. In reference to her goals, she has spent the past twenty years as a medical assistant and ultimately plans to focus on coaching full time with global objectives.

Ian A. Wilson Professor

Scripps Research Institute/ TSRI

La Jolla, CA

La Jolla, CA— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Ian A. Wilson is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Healthcare Professional for his contributions to the Biomedical Research and Infectious Disease Fields.

Dr. Wilson began his prestigious academic journey at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland in 1971 where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry. He then attended Oxford University where he received a Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular Biophysics in 1976 and a Doctor of Science in Biological Sciences 2000.

With more than 40 years in the field, Dr. Wilson’s career began in 1982 when he was hired as a Hansen Professor of Structural Biology where he also chaired the Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology, and directed a laboratory involved in biomedical research on infectious diseases. He also

serves as a Professor at Scripps Research (formerly The Scripps Research Institute or TSRI) in La Jolla, California. Established in 1924, Scripps Research concentrates on research and education in biomedical sciences and notably houses more than 170 laboratories on campus.

A revered scientist in the field, Dr. Wilson is internationally known for solving the structure of influenza virus hemagglutinin, the first viral antigen structure to be determined from a membrane virus in 1981. He has also extensively studied other infectious diseases and is presently investigating the immune response to SARS-CoV-2 to better understand, either by vaccination or natural infection, what types of antibodies are produced and how such information can be used to design nextgeneration vaccines and therapeutics. Dr. Wilson plans to continually contribute to various infectious disease projects, including finding a vaccine for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus and more universal vaccines for influenza virus and coronaviruses.

Dr. Wilson is also internationally known for countless research publications in various leading scholarly journals. A testament to his expertise, he has served in editorial roles for several leading scholarly journals, including Science; Immunology; Journal of Experimental Medicine; and Journal of Molecular Biology.

Aside from his professional pursuits, Dr. Wilson has served on the scientific

advisory board for the Keystone Symposia from 2000 to 2017 and on its board of directors from 2008 to 2017. He has been serving on the international scientific advisory board at Academia Sinica in Taipei, Taiwan, since 2015 and was active in various other capacities, including Director of the NIGMS Joint Center for Structural Genomics from 2000 to 2016.

In recognition off his contributions to the field of science, Dr. Wilson is an elected member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences (AAAS); a fellow of the Royal Society of London; an international member of the National Academy of Sciences; a corresponding fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh; a fellow of the American Crystallographic Association; and fellow of the American Academy of Microbiology.

Dr. Wilson is touted for his exceptional additions to structural biology and higher education, he is the recipient of a Newcomb Cleveland Prize for Outstanding Contribution to Science from the AAAS in 1997. He has also been recognized by TSRI with the First Bernie Gilula Award for Faculty Excellence in the graduate program in 2010 and a Second Outstanding Mentor Award from the Society of Fellows at TSRI in 2012. The scientist and educator was additionally recognized with a Peter Gorer Lectureship from the British Society for Immunology in 2000 and an honorary fellowship from Corpus Christi College in Oxford in 2009.

John Dean Freund Outdoor and Resource Teacher Worthington City School District Warsaw, OH

Warsaw, OH—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, John Dean Freund is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the Field of Education.

A respected educator for more than 49 years, Mr. Freund specialized in creating curriculum for his students that focused on outdoor/environmental education. Prior to his retirement, he worked as an outdoor and resource teacher for the Worthington City School District from 1963 to 1998. While he believes that degrees are not as important as intuitiveness and persistence, he did attend Ohio State University where he

Steven T. Thompson

Instructor

McHenry Community High School District 156

Arlington Heights, IL

Arlington Heights, IL— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Steven Thompson is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Educator for his contributions to the Field of Industrial Education.

Mr. Thompson earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Education in 1983 at the University of Wisconsin- Stout. He continued his studies at Illinois State University and earned a Master’s degree in Technology Teacher Education and Human Resource Development in 1994. He then earned a degree as a Specialist in Education in Career and Technical

earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1963. He completed a Master of Science in Education in 1974, also at Ohio State University, and later pursued a Doctor of Philosophy in Education. He completed all but his dissertation.

The educator is well known for his preparedness and ability to use his past experiences to assist in his teaching methodology. Mr. Freund hopes to be remembered for always putting the maximum effort into all of his endeavors.

Continuing to serve in his retirement, Mr. Freund is a committed, civic-minded citizen who volunteers with organizations such as 4-H. Mr. Freund has largely attributed his success to his faith and the love and support of his parents.

Looking to the future, Mr. Freund plans to continue his civil duties and enriching the lives of others. He is also dedicated to remaining active as a member of

the Fresno Bible Church, as well as the National Muzzle Loading Rifle Association.

Education and Manufacturing from his alma mater in 2015.

Mr. Thompson is currently an instructor at McHenry Community High School District 156. Prior to joining his current school district, he served as an organizational development technical educator at Scot Forge Company in Spring Grove, Illinois from 2017 to 2021. He was also an adjunct instructor at McHenry County College from 2008 to 2018 and operated as an industrial educator at the St. Mary’s Springs Academy from 1983 to 1987.

Mr. Thompson has largely attributed his success to his dedication to learning and improving his education. In the coming years, he looks forward to conducting more consulting work for clients and companies in need of CNC machining assistance.

In his spare time, Mr. Thompson enjoys biking. He also supports local charities, including Haas Manufacturing Association. He would like to dedicate this honor in memoriam to Dr. Franz Loepp.

Daniel E. Setters

President Accounting Plus Tax Solutions Inc.

Champaign, IL

Champaign, IL— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Daniel E. Setters is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Life Member for his contributions to the Tax Preparation field.

Mr. Setters began his educational journey at Purdue University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science in 1967. He then studied accounting at Parkman College and became an Accredited Business Accountant with the National Society of Public Accountants. Capping his professional credentials, he was later designated as a tax preparer by The Accreditation Council for Accountancy and Taxation.

With more than 20 years of experience in the field, Mr. Setters began working

for Accounting Tax Plus Solutions, Inc. in 1978 and later transitioned to serve as the president. Considered an expert in individual income tax returns and working with S Corporations and C Corporations, he attributes his professional success to his tenacity.

Mr. Setters entered the tax preparation business after he acquired a bookkeeping franchise and was intent on expanding the business. A leader in his field with a strong work ethic, he was able to take accounting courses at Parkman College and obtained the proper credentials. Although his career has had many positive experiences, he considers serving as former president of the National Society of Public Accountants and the Independent Accountants Association of Illinois to be the highlights. Prior to working for Accounting Plux Tax Solutions, Inc., Mr. Setters was employed at Sears, Roebuck & Co. in multiple positions, including store manager and manager-in-training.

Dedicated to keeping abreast of the latest advancements in his field, Mr. Setters is a member of the board of directors for the Independent Accountants Association of Illinois and the National Society of Public Accountants. Aside from his professional endeavors, Mr. Setters has served as his church treasurer.

Joseph A. Lizza

Managing Partner, Founder and Chief Executive Officer

Lizza & Carullo CPA & Advisors

Lyndhurst, NJ

Lyndhurst, NJ—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Joseph A. Lizza is being acknowledged as a Most Trusted Business Professional for his contributions to the Finance and Accounting Fields.

Mr. Lizza earned a Bachelor’s degree in Accountancy from St. Peters University in Jersey City, NJ and became a certified

public accountant in 1981. He earned his Masters of Business Administration degree in Innovation and Entrepreneurship from Felician University.

Mr. Lizza is the managing partner, founder and chief executive officer of Lizza & Carullo CPA & Advisors. The business professional spent more than 10 years in both the private industry and public accounting prior to forming the firm in 1991. He noted that it was during this time that he developed a keen sense of management decision-making for profitability, sustainability and growth. Mr. Lizza has worked in the field for 44 years and is considered an expert in finance and accounting.

Mr. Lizza has been honored as Teacher of the Year-Rutgers Accounting Society (1996, 1997); Excellence in TeachingBecker CPA Review Company (2003, 2005); Five Star Top Wealth Manager’s Award in Business Planning; New Jersey

Monthly Magazine (2011, 2012, 2013); Best of New Jersey Award of Excellence-The Italian Voice (2014); Distinguished Alumni Award-Felician University (2015); Dean’s Award for Teaching Excellence-Ovation Award; and Education Excellence-NJCPA (2019); and NJBIZ ICON (2020).

Broomfield, CO— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Lauren Egan is acknowledged as a Most Trusted Business Professional for her contributions to the field of Accounting.

Ms. Egan pursued higher education at the University of Northern Colorado and Metropolitan State College of Denver, now Metropolitan State University, where she studied Accounting. She later became a

Certified Public Accountant working in numerous positions including higher education; in the private sector as an accounting administrator and various clerical positions; and Senior Revenue Agent at the Colorado Department of Revenue where she retired after 34 years in the field.

A leader in the field, Ms. Egan was the secretary of the Accounting Honor Society at Metropolitan State College and received the G. Lewis Frazer Accounting Scholarship from the Association of Government Accountants and also a scholarship from the Auraria book center. She is dedicated to providing the latest advancements in her field and has been a member of numerous professional organizations, including the Colorado Society of Certified Public Accountants. She is considered an expert in Accounting and Auditing and is currently pursuing other interests in her retirement as a Stephen Minister.

After ending her professional career, Ms. Egan spends her days running; swimming; playing racquetball; sewing; with family and friends; and watching her grandchildren play softball, basketball, and soccer.

Mielat Asrat

Owner

Mielat Asrat Insurance Agency

Greenwood Village, CO

Greenwood Village, CO— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Mielat Asrat is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions to the Insurance Industry.

Ms. Asrat began her scholarship journey at the University of Colorado, Denver where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 2016. After earning her Bachelor of Science degree, she entered the insurance

industry. She became an insurance agent writing life insurance policies. After gaining experience in writing life insurance, she decided to expand her policy offerings. In 2018, she obtained her property and casualty as well as her health insurance license with the help of Farmers Insurance. She worked as a producer writing auto, home, life, health and business insurance until March of 2020. Between March of 2020 to August of 2020, she worked on purchasing a book of insurance business with the Farmers Insurance Group of companies. On August 1, 2020, she decided to open up her own agency.

Ms. Asrat is certified in accidental, health, property, casualty and life insurance by the state of Colorado and is a member of the Rocky Mountain Field Institute. An expert in auto and home insurance, she is located in the Greenwood Village area of Colorado and serves the entire state of Colorado.

Aside from her professional pursuits, Ms. Asrat enjoys going to the gym and shopping. In the coming years, she plans to grow her company and hire agents to work under her agency.

Lauren Egan

Retired Senior Revenue Agent

Colorado Department of Revenue Broomfield, CO

Abraham B. Bornstein

Assistant Professor of Integrative Medicine

Maharishi International University

New York, NY

New York, NY—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Dr. Abraham Bornstein is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his work in Cardiovascular and Physiology Fields.

Dr. Bornstein earned a Bachelor of Arts in Biology in 1969 from Boston University. In 1973, he graduated from the Tufts University School of Medicine with a Doctor of Medicine and was subsequently board-certified in internal medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

Dr. Bornstein as an assistant professor of integrative medicine at Maharishi International University and has worked in this capacity since 2016. Prior to this role, he was an assistant professor of medical education at the Hofstra Northwell School of Medicine from 2010 to 2016 and an assistant professor of public health at Weill Cornell Medical College from 2008 to 2011. He also worked as an assistant professor of medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine from 2001 to 2008.

Dr. Bornstein was an attending cardiologist for 20 years and served Cardiology Associates of Fairfield County from 1978 and 1998. He was the associate director of the St. Joseph Medical Center Heart Institute and also worked for Stanford Hospital and Practice.

Dr. Bornstein is a fellow of the American College of Cardiology and a member of the American Heart Association. He was the recipient of multiple teaching awards from Stanford Hospital and Practice. In the coming years, Dr. Bornstein plans to continue finding success in integrative medicine and plans to become involved with the Sophie Davis Medical School, serving students from underprivileged communities. In his spare time, he enjoys skiing and motorcycling.

Alison M. Garcia, DMSc, MSPA, PAC

Physician Associate, Surgical Critical Care & Surgical Sub-Specialties

NYU Langone Hospital Brooklyn Brooklyn, NY

Brooklyn, NY—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Alison M. Garcia is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions to the Field of Surgery.

Dr. Garcia earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology from Hartwick College in 2007 and obtained a Master’s degree in Physician Assistant Studies at Pace University in 2010. She has primarily worked in neurosurgery; neuro trauma; and stroke/stroke intervention at Harlem Hospital Center and later moved to NYPBrooklyn Hospital where she continued to work for 11 years. The doctor continued to work during the COVID-19 Pandemic and

acquired her Doctor of Medical Science degree from the University of Lynchburg in 2021, along with four graduate certificates in Health Administration; Executive Leadership; Global Health/ Disaster Medicine; and Advanced PA Education. She is also considering acquiring a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Curriculum and Instruction in the near future.

Dr. Garcia works at the Department of Surgical Critical Care at NYU Langone Hospital Brooklyn. According to the doctor, the doctor’s nurses and clinical teams at NYU Langone Hospital Brooklyn provide the highest-quality and safest medical and surgical care. As part of NYU Langone, it is ranked No. 1 in New York in the U.S. News and World Reports Best Hospitals. It also has the best safety rating of any hospital in Brooklyn.

Dr. Garcia attained certification as a physician assistant through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). She notes that the NCCPA was established as a not-forprofit organization in 1974 and provides certification programs that reflect standards for clinical knowledge, clinical reasoning, and other medical skills and professional behaviors required upon

entry into practice and throughout the careers of PAs. Dr. Garcia continues to hold a board position as the Opportunities Chair for the PAs for Global Health (PAGH), which is a volunteer organization promoting Global Health/Public Health and the unification of Advanced Practice Professionals around the world.

According to Dr. Garcia, a Certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) is a health care practitioner who practices medicine in collaboration with physicians. They examine patients, prescribe medicine, and order diagnostic tests. In most cases, they work under the supervision of physicians or surgeons, but they can work more independently in some states, rural areas, and inner-city areas consulting with physicians only when they need help with cases.

The doctor is associated with AAPA, PAGH, IPAEA, and supports local charities.

In her spare time, Dr. Garcia loves to travel. When overseas, she often takes time out of her personal vacation to use her medical training to help out at a local clinic or shelter. She has also helped prepare food in a soup kitchen in India and repair support beams in a school in Thailand.

Alan Soroka, MD

Founder and Internist

Prime HealthCarePC

Windsor Locks, CT

Windsor Locks, CT— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Alan Soroka, MD, is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the Medical Field.

Dr. Soroka began his academic journey at The City College of New York where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree. He then attended the Catholic University of Louvain in Belgium and completed his internship at the University of Louvain Medical Center. Upon returning to the United States, he finished residency in internal medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital.

A founder of HealthCare PC, Dr. Soroka prides himself on taking time with his patients as well as establishing longterm relationships. His specialties are

hypertension, diabetes, and all general internal medicine issues and explained that comprehensive care is the primary goal of Prime HealthCare internal medicine practitioners. The doctor and his team treat patients with diseases affecting particular organs or organ systems, along with chronic diseases, such as diabetes and hypertension, and women’s and men’s health issues. They provide general health assessments, help patients manage chronic conditions, and provide referrals to specialists when necessary.

Dr. Soroka explained that internal medicine is the medical specialty dealing with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of adult diseases. Physicians, like Dr. Soroka, who specialize in internal medicine are called internists. They manage and prevent common and complex diseases by providing comprehensive care and promoting overall well-being.

A testament to his care and compassion, Dr. Soroka has been awarded the Patients’

Choice Award (2018) and Compassionate Doctor Recognition (2018) and is a highly sought after for his teaching efforts.

The doctor is a member of the American Medical Association; the Connecticut State Medical Association; and the Hartford County Medical Association. He has been active with the group Choices, which allows him to work with teenagers in a mentoring capacity, and also providing community service efforts to the elderly.

Dr. Soroka would like to dedicate this honor in loving memory of his wife of 48 years, Francoise Soroka. They have three children, Sandra, Peter, and Laura; and nine grandchildren.

For more information, visit www.primehc.com.

Alan J. Shienbaum, DO, FCAP, FASCP Pathologist Private

Practice

Throop, PA

Throop, PA—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Alan J. Shienbaum, DO, FCAP, FASCP, is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions to the field of Pathology.

Dr. Shienbaum began his educational journey at Albright College where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. He continued his studies at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine where

he received a Medical Degree, completed a residency at Temple University and finished a fellowship at Hahnemann University Hospital.

With more than 25 years of experience in pathology, Dr. Shienbaum is considered one of the best practitioners in the Scranton area and is an expert in diagnostics, laboratory management, outpatient pathology, and cytopathology. A testament to his successes, Dr. Sheinbaum was awarded Top Doctor in Pennsylvania in 2023.

Dr. Scheinbaum practices at Pathology Associates which was established in 1958 and is located in Keystone Industrial Park in the borough of Dunmore. Serving Northeastern Pennsylvania, the doctor notes that the company employs board-certified pathologists who have varied specialties such as surgical pathology, dermatopathology, and cytopathology. According to Dr. Scheinbaum, they provide services to local hospitals, laboratories, physician offices, and surgical centers, and educate

future medical professionals at the Commonwealth Medical College.

Among his many career successes and accolades, Dr. Sheinbaum is most proud of taking over a struggling lab and making it thrive. Established in 2008, Keystone Medical Laboratories is a sister company of Pathology Associates, created to have services performed locally and more rapidly. Using advanced technology, Keystone Medical Laboratories ensure high quality and environmentally friendly services by providing a work environment free of Xylene and Mercury.

Dr. Sheinbaum recognizes Dr. Tang as his mentor and credits the doctor for his attention to detail. He also notes that his favorite publication is the Archives of Pathology. Aside from his professional pursuits, the doctor enjoys traveling to northern California and Italy, and plays guitar and mandolin. Dr. Sheinbaum would like to thank his wife and family for their support.

Alison P. Bellievau (Cullin), DO Emergency Medical Resident

Inspira Health

Fayetteville, NC

Fayetteville, NC— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Alison P. Belliveau (Cullin), DO, is acknowledged as a Most Trusted Healthcare Professional for her contributions to the field of Family Medicine.

Dr. Belliveau pursued higher education at the University of Arizona where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physiology in 2015. She continued her education at Geisinger Commonwealth

School of Medicine, where she earned a Master’s degree in Biomedical Sciences in 2016 and then attended the College of Osteopathic Medicine at Midwestern University-Arizona earning a Doctor of Osteopathy degree in 2020 while simultaneously serving for a year as a teacher’s assistant in the anatomy lab.

Dr. Belliveau began her medical experience working in a hospital during her undergraduate studies where she served as a medical transcriptionist for Scribe America within an emergency services department. While at the University of Arizona, she was a Gamma Beta Phi Honors Society member and on the university’s ballroom dance team.

Dr. Belliveau joined UNC Health Southeastern in 2020 where she served until 2022 in Family Medicine. She explained that Family Medicine is a medical specialty where patients are first seen for their health concerns and preventative medical care. The doctor currently works as an Emergency Medical Resident for Inspira Health.

Dr. Belliveau shared that as a young girl, she first dreamed of becoming a veterinarian and working with animals. However, she took a human anatomy and physiology class during high school which sparked her interest in becoming a doctor for human patients. She prides herself on her dedication to her chosen field and believes this trait was mostly inspired in her by her parents. A testament to her insight and knowledge of the field, Dr. Belliveau has co-written a peer-reviewed article focusing on pupillary light reflex, published in 2020. She is also working on a children’s book and a chapter book.

Dr. Belliveau would like to dedicate this honor with special thanks to her mother, Ronna Belliveau, and sister, Deborah Mat. Soon to be Dr. Cullin, Dr. Belliveau was married in January 2022 to her husband who is also dedicated to the emergency medicine field. Already in her Emergency Medicine Residency, Dr. Belliveau is considering further training in Critical Care Medicine as she looks to the future.

Arben Santo Chairperson

Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine

Blacksburg, VA

Blacksburg, VA— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Arben Santo is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Platinum Healthcare Professional for his work in the field of Pathology.

Dr. Santo studied at the State University of Tirana, Albania where he earned an MD and a PhD in the 1970s to 1990s. His vast experience and exceptional training have led to numerous leadership positions, including service as the chairperson of

the Pathology Department at the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine from 2004 to 2022 and a similar position with the Medical College of the State University of Tirana, Albania. Dr. Santo has also served as a pathology professor.

Dedicated to providing the latest advancements in his field, the doctor is a member of several organizations, including the International Academy of Pathology and the Medical Society of Virginia. Dr. Santo considers earning the Golden Apple Award as a career highlight as well as the contribution of more than 60 publications, including articles, textbooks, and monographs.

A professional milestone, Dr. Santo takes great pride in creating 190 chapters of a pathology textbook, which significantly helped his students pass their board exam. According to the doctor, each year the students’ scores in pathology were between 30 and 40 points above the national average. He credits his overall success to a law in Albania that made

the autopsy of patients who died in the hospital mandatory, which allowed him to further his knowledge via the postmortem dissection of 1,500 people.

Looking towards the future, Dr. Santo plans to continue his research and service to the field. He would like to dedicate this honor with special thanks to his wife, Alida Santo, with whom he has been married for 45 years.

Allan D. Lamb, DO, FACOS, FACS

Co-Founder and General Surgeon

Lakeshore Surgical Consultants PLC

Trenton, MI

Trenton, MI— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Alan Lamb is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Healthcare Professional for his contributions to the fields of General Surgery and Osteopathic Medicine.

Dr. Lamb began his higher education journey at Earlham College in 1989 where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. He then attended Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1995 and received a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree. The doctor completed an internship and residency in general surgery at Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1996 and Mount Clemens General Hospital in 2000.

Arun Kumar Sherma, MD

Neurologist

Wayne State University Health Center

Detroit, MI

Detroit, MI— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Arun Kumar Sherma is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the field of Internal Medicine.

Dr. Sherma began his educational journey at Northwestern University where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a focus on Neuroscience. He then attended the University of Cincinnati, School of Medicine where he received a Medical Degree. The doctor completed a residency in internal medicine and neurology at Tulane University and a fellowship in neurocritical care at the

A specialist in general surgery, Dr. Lamb is an osteopathic physician and the President of Lakeshore Surgical Consultants PLC in Trenton, Michigan. He explained that Lakeshore Surgical Consultants, PLC is a group of physicians that will provide surgical services of the highest quality to the residents of Southern Wayne County and Monroe County. They offer patients a wide range of surgical procedures utilizing the most current techniques and the most current technology.

The doctor explained that general surgery is a surgical specialty that focuses on alimentary canal and abdominal contents, including the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, appendix and bile ducts, and often the thyroid gland. General surgeons are doctors who specialize in surgical procedures. They are part of a surgical team that also includes an anesthesiologist, nurses, and surgical technicians.

Recognized as a leader in the field, Dr. Lamb serves in many capacities including Trauma Director at Oakwood Southshore Medical Center since 2006; Chairman of the Committee on Trauma at Oakwood Southshore Medical Center since 2003; Chairman of Advisory Committee Surgical

First Assistant Program at the Wayne County Community College District since 2006; and is a member of the Resident Evaluation and Standards Committee with the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons since 2008. He can also be found on staff at Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital and Oakwood Heritage Hospital Center.

Dr. Lamb is dedicated to providing the latest advancements in his field and is a member of many professional organizations, including the American Osteopathic Association; the Midwest Surgical Association; the Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma; the Michigan Association of Osteopathic Physicians and Surgeons; the Detroit Surgical Association; the American College of Surgeons Michigan Committee on Trauma; and the Region 2 South Trauma Advisory Committee of the Regional Trauma Network, State of Michigan. Board certified with the State of Michigan Board of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery, Dr. Lamb is a Diplomate with the prestigious National Board of Examiners in Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery and a Fellow of both the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons (FACOS) and the American College of Surgeons (FACS).

University of Pennsylvania, Perelman School of Medicine in Philadelphia.

Board certified in neurology by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN), the doctor notes that ABPN is a not-for-profit corporation dedicated to serving the professions of psychiatry and neurology. He is also board-certified in internal medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) and asserts that the ABIM is a physician-led, non-profit, independent evaluation organization driven by doctors who want to achieve higher standards for better care in a rapidly changing world.

The doctor is considered an expert in treating patients with traumatic brain and spinal cord conditions in the intensive care unit that may be due to stroke, brain hemorrhages, neuromuscular disorders, or traumatic injury. He also serves as an Assistant Professor of

Neurology with Wayne State University, School of Medicine. The doctor notes that neurology is a branch of medicine dealing with disorders of the nervous system. Neurologists are licensed medical specialists who diagnose and treat disorders that affect the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles of patients. They examine a patient’s mental and physical status; conduct medical tests and scans; and evaluate the results to diagnose and treat the patient.

Dedicated to providing the latest advancements in the field, the doctor is a member of the Neuro Critical Care Society; Society of Critical Care Medicine; American Association of Neurology; and the American College of Physicians. Aside from his professional pursuits, the doctor volunteers his time and fosters animals for the ASPCA.

Anaiis Salles

Bioenergetics Practitioner Living Lessons Library

Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia, PA—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Anaiis Salles is acknowledged as a Distinguished Healthcare Professional for her work in Health and Wellness Fields.

Ms. Salles, a leader in her fields, has multiple certifications, including Life Coach; Bioenergetics practitioner; Holistic Product Innovator; EMT Hypnotherapist; Ordained Minister; Beekeeper; and Author. She facilitates a variety of courses workshops and retreats in the United States while maintaining her referral private bioenergetics practice in Philadelphia. She notes that her primary focus is to guide others toward greater confidence and understanding of relationship losses and gains.

Ms. Salles’ extensive education allows her to guide others toward discovering and living through, what she describes as, the magnificent and powerfully loving cocreative capacity that is each individual life. She is an expert in divine feminine/divine masculine co-creation and supporting sacred union awareness through all levels of 15-dimensional energy body healing. Highly regarded as an innovator in energy medicine, she is known as a co-creative catalyst on the cutting edge of energy medicine since 1991. Ms. Salles’ asserts that her energy healing results involve minimal use of hardware/technology, and in fact, has proven that activated DNA and the 15-chakra human energy field can supply 85% of all healing technology healthy humans require.

Ms. Salles’ forged her own path when her radically effective energy healing skills/ results were first medically verified in 1991 after she established her authority as an energy medicine practitioner in Moscow, Russia. She explained that she initiated an internship/collaboration with physicians and their seriously ill patients, which was a tremendous success. Highlights of her international collaborations are shared in the documentary “Heart to Heart” focusing on the value of hands-on healing team members in clinical settings. She also incorporated the innovation

of Sourced Life Essences and Keylontic Science to the foundation of life-changing expertise that has taken her decades to build and validate through client results.

Ms. Salles is an international traveler who is often asked to share her expertise at numerous Mind/Body/Spirit events and at conferences around the world, sitting alongside well known authors and personalities including Dr. Dean Ornish; Deepak Chopra; Dr. Norman Shealy; and the Dalai Lamas’ personal physician. She asserts that Spyros Sathi is her most beloved embodied mentor and master healer, as well as Nicholai Harsoff.

In addition to her professional work, Ms. Salles is an author of multiple works, including “Accelerated Conscious Evolution & The Living Spiral of Transformation: Discover the Hidden Power in Your Diverse Unique DNA.” Having years of experience and education, she shares the personal and universal living lessons that are key to her bliss awakening and lifelong spiritual journey of integration of expanding conscious awareness.

In her spare time, Dr. Salles enjoys travel, cooking, and her family. She would like to dedicate this honor to her dear children and thanks them for their love and support.

Britni Powell, BSN, RN, LSSBB

Cardiovascular Program Manager

CHRISTUS Health

Bossier City, LA

Bossier City, LA— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Britni Powell is acknowledged as a Distinguished Healthcare Professional for her contributions to the field of Nursing.

Mrs. Powell attended the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences where she

earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree and currently holds an active RN license. A figurehead in the field, she has held many leadership positions in addition to her role as a registered nurse (RN). .

Mrs. Powell currently serves as the Cardiovascular Program Manager at CHRISTUS Highland Medical Center where she is responsible for ensuring that patients receive high-quality care and receive appropriate medications and referrals based on the American College of Cardiology and Society of Thoracic Surgeons Registry guidelines. She oversees her facility’s cardiovascular registries, identifies areas of opportunity and is responsible for implementing process improvements. A testament to her dedication to provide the latest advancements in her field, Mrs. Powell

is a member of the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) and is certified as a prestigious Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (LSSBB).

A woman of faith, Mrs. Powell credits God for her blessings and successes in her career. She asserts that she has worked with many great leaders who have taught her valuable lessons along the way. The medical professional defines her nursing career as being unique, and she believes that her opportunities have opened up through divine intervention.

Mrs. Powell would like to dedicate this honor to her mother, Terrie Ramsey, and in loving memory to her father, Robert Ramsey. Aside from her professional pursuits, the nurse enjoys camping, horses, outdoors, and spending time with her family.

Andrew Jonathan Cordiale, DO, MS

Owner and Orthopedic Surgeon

Cor Ortho Spine

New York, NY

New York, NY— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Andrew Jonathan Cordiale, DO, MS, is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional in the field of Orthopedic Spinal Surgeon.

Dr. Cordiale began his academic journey at the New York Institute of Technology College of Osteopathic Medicine in the top 10% of class and in the 99th percentile on his medical licensing exam. While pursuing his medical school training, he earned two Masters degrees: a Master of Science degree in Neuromuscular-skeletal Science; and a Master of Science degree in Clinical Nutrition, in which he graduated with distinction. A testament to his extraordinary scholarship, Dr. Cordiale was also 1 of 2 medical students in his class awarded a scholarship as a Pre-Doctoral Fellow in Anatomical Science.

Dr. Cordiale continued orthopedic training at North Shore / Long Island Jewish Healthcare Systems (Plainview Hospital) was selected and served as a chief of his intern class. A leader among his peers, he also served as a chief resident and scored within the top 94th percentile

on his orthopedic in-service training exams (OITE). Dr. Cordiale finished his fellowship training in complex spine surgery at the world-renowned Norton Leatherman Spine Center in Louisville, Kentucky.

Board-certified in orthopedic spinal surgeon, Dr. Cordial asserts that he deeply cares about his patients and his community. “My goal is to improve my patient’s quality of life. Even as a surgeon, I firmly believe the first step is to utilize no operative treatments to the fullest extent possible. Although surgery is a powerful and an excellent treatment modality, in many cases surgery should be the last option,” the doctor explained.

A prestigious leader in his field, Dr. Cordiale is ranked the 11th highest in the country on the written orthopedic board exam and is a Diplomate of the American Osteopathic Board of Orthopedic Surgery (AOBOS). The doctor notes that the AOBOS is an organization that provides board certification to qualified Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine who specialize in the medical and surgical treatment of disorders of the musculoskeletal system.

Dr. Cordiale is considered an expert in spondylolisthesis, which is a form of spinal instability. His research on this topic has been presented at international spinal surgery conferences in Europe (IMAST); North America (NASS); and in

the United States (AAOS). He has also co-authored a book chapter on this condition.

Dr. Cordiale explained that orthopedic surgery is the branch of surgery concerned with conditions involving the musculoskeletal system. Orthopedic surgeons use both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors, and congenital disorders.

Dedicated to servicing the community and academia, Dr. Cordiale has volunteered on a local level at Brookhaven National Laboratory on cancer research and in the State University of New York at Stony Brook University Medical Center. He has also served as an Emergency Medical Technician on Long Island and served in an international capacity as a volunteer in the Guatemalan Healing Hand Foundation.

Recognized as a compassionate and thorough practitioner, Dr. Cordiale has been recognized numerous times, including the Patients Choice Award (2020); On-Time Doctor Award (2020); and Compassionate Doctor Recognition (2020).

Cord Schlobohm, DMD

Dentist

Schlobohm Dental

Bethesda, MA

Bethesda, MA— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Cord Schlobohm is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the field of Dentistry and Prosthodontics.

Dr. Schlobohm began his educational journey at Villa Nova University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. He then attended the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey where he earned DMD and Prosthodontics degrees. Practicing in Bethesda, Maryland, the doctor serves a local population.

Considered an expert in general, cosmetic, prosthodontic dentistry, Invisalign, and sure smile services, Dr. Schlobohm is a member of the American Dental Association; Southern Maryland Dental Society (SMDS); and Cerec Doctors. To stay abreast of the latest innovations in his field, the doctor enjoys reading dental journals and credits his mentors, Dr. Celenza and Dr. Winkler, for his attention to detail and professional demeanor. He

asserts that his professional philosophy is being honest and easygoing.

Aside from his professional pursuits, Dr. Schlobohm enjoys visiting the beach, playing golf, walking his dogs, and exercising.

Ashton Peterson, MSN, APRN, FNP-C

Advanced Practice Registered Nurse & Certified Family Nurse Practitioner Peterson Wellness Primary Care & Pediatrics

Broken Arrow, OK

Broken Arrow, OK— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Ashton Peterson, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, is acknowledged as a Most Trusted Healthcare Professional for her contributions to the Medical Field.

Mrs. Peterson graduated from Broken Arrow High School in 2009 and earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Oklahoma in 2013. and worked as a nurse in the Trauma ICU at Saint Francis Hospital for 6 years. She later graduated with her Master of Science in Nursing degree (Family Nurse Practitioner Program) from Maryville University.

Mrs. Peterson is an advanced practice registered nurse & a certified family nurse practitioner specializing in primary care for the whole family. She is the owner of Peterson Wellness Primary Care & Pediatrics and notes that she loves working with families to take steps towards wellness goals. “I believe health and wellness are vital, and having a healthcare provider that partners with you towards that goal is invaluable,” she asserted.

According to Mrs. Peterson, Peterson Wellness Primary Care & Pediatrics is a primary care office serving all ages. She practices preventative medicine, treatment of chronic & acute diseases, encouraging overall wellness, and developing individualized plans to meet wellness goals. She notes that her success is due to hard work, dedication, family support, and great mentors along the way. Mrs. Peterson is an active member of the Association of Oklahoma Nurse Practitioners and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.

Mrs. Peterson noted that an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) is a nurse who has obtained at least a Master’s degree in Nursing. APRNs can diagnose and treat, as well as order and interpret tests and prescribe medications. APRNs may work across various healthcare

settings, including hospitals, ambulatory clinics, or long-term care facilities. They provide medical support and preventative care to patients, along with additional responsibilities of coordinating patient care and using specialized knowledge to manage complex patient conditions.

She explained that a Certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-C) is an advanced practice registered nurse who holds certification and works autonomously or collaborates with other healthcare professionals to deliver family-focused care. Given the rather broad nature of the family patient population focus FNPs offer a wide range of healthcare services that revolve around the family unit, which ranges from health promotion and disease prevention to direct care and counseling across the lifespan.

Ms. Peterson is active in her church, Broken Arrow Nazarene Church, and is a member of the Broken Arrow Chamber of Commerce. She would like to dedicate this honor to her husband, Mr. James Peterson, to whom she has been married for 10 years; their three children; and her parents, Mick and Patty Leibold, and then them for all of their support.

For more information about Mrs. Peterson’s services, please visit her website at www.petersonwellnessba.com.

Courtney E. Takahashi

Neurologist and Neurointensivist

Boston Medical Center

Boston, MA

Boston, MA—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Dr. Courtney Takahashi is acknowledged as a Most Trusted Healthcare Professional for her contributions to the Field of Neurointensivist.

Dr. Takahashi began her educational journey Stanford University where she received an undergraduate degree. She earned her medical degree from the University of Hawaii, John A. Burns School of Medicine and completed her residency training in neurology at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU). The doctor completed her fellowship training at OHSU and capped her scholarship earning a Master’s degree in Clinical Research during her fellowship.

Board-certified as a neurologist and a Neurointensivist, Dr. Takahashi is an Assistant Professor of Neurology at Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine. A testament to her skill and knowledge, the doctor won the BUMG Clinical Excellence Award in 2019. Her administrative roles include Hospital Flow Director; Inpatient Medical Director

of Neurology; and Neurocritical Care Fellowship Director and her research interests include perihematomal edema, nursing education, and quality improvement initiatives.

Dedicated to providing the latest advancements in her field, Dr. Takahashi is a fellow of the American Academy of Neurology and has worked in the field for more than eight years.

Aymen H. Rashid, MD

Orthopedic Surgeon

MVHS Orthopedic Group

Utica, NY

Utica, NY— Prominently featured in the Inner Circle, Aymen H. Rashid, MD, is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the field of General Orthopedic Surgery.

Dr. Rashid pursued higher education at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine where he earned a medical degree (MD). He then completed residency in orthopedic surgery at SUNY Upstate Medical University, and a fellowship in spine surgery at Houston Methodist Hospital.

With more than 8 years of experience in the field, Dr. Rashid practices at MVHS Orthopedic Group in Utica, NY. He has served as the Director of the Ortho Spine Center at Slocum Dickson Medical Group

before moving to MVHS Orthopedic Group. According to the doctor, MVHS Orthopedic Group is the local resource for the most up-to-date procedures and treatments addressing various orthopedic conditions. He notes that they are proud to be a part of the New York State community, supporting its hospitals, businesses, and schools and providing care to its families in a compassionate and highly accessible way.

Dr. Rashid explained that orthopedic surgery is the branch of surgery concerned with conditions involving the musculoskeletal system. Orthopedic surgeons use both surgical and nonsurgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors, and congenital disorders. Specializing in spinal surgery, Dr. Rashid is a general orthopedic surgeon who treats both children and adults with back pain, infections, tumors, and all issues from the base of the skull to the sacrum. Known

for his compassion and listening to his patients, the doctor tailors treatments to meet individual needs and goals. He performs procedures related to the spine, including kyphoplasty; anterior cervical disc replacement; anterior cervical disc fusion; posterior cervical laminectomy and fusion; posterior cervical laminoplasty; posterior spinal fusion for scoliosis; spinal cord stimulator placement; thoracic laminectomy; lumbar laminectomy; lumbar microdiscectomy; and lumbar fusion with and without instrumentation.

Dedicated to providing the latest advancements in the field, the doctor is an active member of the American Medical Association; the North American Spine Society; the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons; the Scoliosis Research Society; and the Cervical Spine Research Society. Dr. Rashid also teaches and lectures for medical courses at the Upstate Medical University in Syracuse and other institutions.

Chadi Alraies, MD, MPH, FACC, FSCAI

Medical Director

Detroit Medical Center

Holbrook, NY

Holbrook, New York—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Chadi Alraies, MD MPH FACC FSCAI, is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the field of Cardiology.

Dr. Alraies earned a Medical Degree from the School of Medicine, the University of Aleppo in Syria. He completed his internship and residency at Case Western

University / St Vincent Medical Center in Cleveland, Ohio and finished a cardiovascular medicine fellowship at the University of Minnesota. He also received his Master of Public Health and completed his interventional cardiology training at Wayne State University / Detroit Medical Center in Detroit, Michigan, USA.

Dr. Alraies is the medical director of the cardiac catheterization laboratory, cardiac rehab, and director of interventional cardiology research at Harper University Hospital and Heart Hospital at Detroit Medical Center in Detroit, Michigan USA. He is also an assistant clinical professor at Wayne State University.

Dr. Alraies’ clinical and research interests are focused on complex coronary interventions; mechanical circulatory support; large bore vascular access; and medical education. He has published more than 280 manuscripts in major peer-review journals and several book chapters on topics related to complex coronary interventions; mechanical

circulatory support; and transcatheter aortic valve replacement.

The doctor notes that he has a special interest in digital and social media as learning tools for healthcare providers. He is a speaker and has moderated at national and interventional cardiovascular educational programs focused on interventional cardiology techniques, science, and publications with experts in the field of interventional cardiology.

Dr. Alraies is considered an expert in Cardiology. He is associated with the American Interventional Cardiology Association and has been in the field for more than five years.

Barbara Mathison

Nutrition Expert

Retired Eagle, ID

Eagle, ID— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Barbara Jean Kenyon Pearson MacNeil Mathison is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Healthcare Professional for her contributions to the Field of Nutrition.

Mrs. Mathison is a graduate of “Nutrition Studies”: T. Colin Campbell PHD (author of the China Study) and emeritus Cornell University. She is a retired Food-for-Life Certified Instructor; a health coach for the Certified Wellness Institute; and a VeganCertified Food-for-Life Instructor with Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (www.pcrm. org). She has also worked as a Certified Health Coach from Wellness Institute; taught Whole Food Plant-Based to all age groups; and studied

at Whitewater State College. She was a keynote speaker for professional women’s programs throughout the country and has been a franchise owner of Snelling & Snelling, a bank officer at Old National Bank in Seattle WA, and was a secretary, and a waitress.

Mrs. Mathison is affiliated with the American Sewing Guild Las Vegas Chapter (ASG); is a supporter and was a member of advisory boards at Community College Twin Falls Idaho; has worked with the Salvation Army, Displaced Homemakers, and VSU (Vegetation Society of Utah) where she was president for 8 years, and was also on the Advisory Board.

Mrs. Mathison has been awarded Secretary of the Year; Business Woman of the Year; Mother of the Year; and won the Idaho Business Woman of the year in 1982. She is also included in the prestigious Marquis Who’s Who Biographical Registry and Continental Who’s Who Registry. She lends her nutritional expertise as a vegan cook and instructor, and was featured in the article “Don’t Eat That!” written by Laurie Nelson-Barker and published in the View on Southern Utah Magazine in 2014.

Mrs. Mathison was a Liza Minnelli official look-a-like with a Hollywood Contract since 1986. She has performed cabaret

shows that she developed herself and performed 21 shows to sold-out audiences from around the world. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, sewing, knitting, doing jigsaw puzzles, playing cards, playing some games on the computer, socializing with friends, and being a mother to her two wonderful cats, Misty and Jag, who she considers to be her emotional support team. While she does not enjoy sports, she loves teaching her Tai Chi Dragon Qigong lessons, which she has done for 20 years and continues to do twice a week. Her favorite place is the Maurya Sheraton Hotel in New Delhi India, which she visited in 1990 and performed many shows.

Mrs. Mathison attributes her success to her friends and employees, and to her internal drive to do the best she can in all things. According to Mrs. Mathison, she has 4 wonderful, successful sons and 4 incredible daughters-in-laws, with 9 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. She has been a widow for 2 years and still misses her husband, Duane, of 30 years. She is looking forward to social relationships and getting out of the house a little more. She notes that she is usually happy and an encouraging person to be around who likes to laugh and help others. For more information, please email Mrs. Mathison at Barbara@nutritiousway.info.

David J. Francati, DDS

Dentist and Owner

Bay Dental Office

Bay Village, OH

Bay Village, OH— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, David J. Francati is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the field of Dentistry.

Dr. Francati began his educational journey at Miami University of Ohio where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology. He then attended Ohio State University, College of Dentistry where he earned a DDS. Dr. Francati works at Bay Dental Office along with his team of professionals tending to patient’s dental needs. Working together to provide the highest quality of service, the doctor is in practice with his partners, Sherry Waters, DDS, and Brian Morningstar, DDS.

According to Dr. Francati, Bay Dental Office is the premier family dentistry and orthodontics practice serving the Bay Village and surrounding communities. Its team of dental professionals truly believe that a healthy mouth leads to an overall healthy body, and everyone should have access to a top-notch dental professional. For this reason, they offer competitive pricing and

work with nearly all insurance plans to assist patients in getting the care they deserve.

The doctor asserts that dentistry is a branch of medicine that consists of studying, diagnosing, preventing, and treating diseases, disorders, and conditions of the teeth, gums, mouth and jaw. Dentists diagnose and treat dental issues and help patients develop better oral hygiene regimens. They correct bite issues, perform surgeries, address tooth decay, design esthetically beautiful smiles and perform other duties to ensure that the mouth is healthy.

Aside from his professional pursuits, Dr. Francati resides in Bay Village with his wife, Sheila. They are active with the German Shorthaired Pointer Rescue Society and have a son named Chris, 3 dogs, and 2 cats. In his spare time, the doctor is an avid golfer.

Ernest S. Reeh, PhD

Owner, Doctor, & Dentist River Valley Endodontics

Stillwater, MN

Stillwater, MN—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Ernest S. Reeh is acknowledged as a Distinguished Healthcare Professional for his contributions to the Endodontics Field.

Dr. Reeh began his educational journey at The University of Calgary in Alberta, Canada where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with a minor in

Business. He earned a Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Alberta’s School of Dentistry and completed specialty training in endodontics at the University of Minnesota. Dr. Reeh capped his scholarship obtaining a Master of Science in Material Science and a Doctor of Philosophy in Biophysics with a minor in Engineering from the University of Minnesota.

Dr. Reeh has served as the owner, doctor, and dentist at River Valley Endodontics since 1987. A leader in his field, he is a consultant for: 3M’s Dental Division, the VA Medical Center’s Dental Residency Program and Carestream Dental as well as holding two patents for dental technology, which he earned in 1995. The doctor has also served as a volunteer researcher at the University of Minnesota and has been a lecturer both domestically and internationally in his field. Dr. Reeh is a board-certified endodontist by the

American Board of Endodontics and a fellow of the American Association of Endodontists.

A board-certified endodontist and licensed dentist, Dr. Reeh has been in his current position for 35 years in the state of Minnesota. His findings have been published in numerous professional journals, case reports and abstracts. Recognized by his peers and clients for his excellence, he was also named Top Dentist in St. Paul Magazine every year they run the recognition.

The doctor would like to dedicate this honor with special thanks to his father, Robert E. Reeh, as well as Harold Messer Dentist, PhD, and William Douglas Dentist PhD.

For more information, please email Dr. Reeh at reeh@usfamily.net.

Francesca V. Paragas, AGNP-C

Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner

Primary Care Physicians of Hampton Roads

Virginia Beach, VA

Virginia Beach, VA— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Francesca V. Paragas is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Platinum Healthcare Professional for her contributions to the field of Geriatrics and Chronic Illness.

Ms. Paragas pursued higher education at Old Dominion University where she

earned a Bachelor’s degree and attended Walden University where she received a Nurse Practitioner degree specializing in Adult Geriatrics Primary Care; Chronic Illnesses; Coronary Artery Disease; Hypertension; and Diabetes.

Obtaining an AGNP-C certification in January 2023, Ms. Paragas currently works at Primary Care Physicians of Hampton Roads in Virginia. She asserts that she has vast experience in diverse fields of acute cases and is considered an expert in stroke; transplant; vascular; oncology; trauma; cardiac; and rehabilitation services; as well as working in the Emergency Department. In 2020, Francesca served as a Covid Crisis Nurse in Virginia, Arizona, and California and developed a passion for Preventative Medicine. She is a trusted healthcare provider for many patients and asserts that she is committed to delivering high-

quality care to her patients, which has earned her a great reputation in the medical community.

Crediting much of her success to her mentors, Ms. Paragas would like to recognize Dr. Bunnan Alnaif; Dr. Garfield Samuels; and Nurse Practitioner Donna Bradshaw for their support and guidance. She also attributes her achievements to her parents, Dr. Florence V. Paragas, and Professional Engineer Alex Paragas, and her sister Dr. Angelica V. Paragas, from whom she received unwavering love and support. Aside from her professional pursuits, the nurse practitioner likes to spend her spare time working out; spending time with her family and friends; traveling; and relaxing with her dog.

Cynthia B. Couch, DMD

Dentist and Founder

Modern Dental Solutions

London, KY

London, KY— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Cynthia Couch is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions to the field of Dentistry.

Dr. Couch began her academic journey at the University of Kentucky College of Arts and Sciences where she earned a Bachelor of Science in. She then attended the University of Kentucky, College of Dentistry where she received a DMD. Soon after graduating, Dr. Couch built and opened a private practice, Modern Dental Solutions, in London, Kentucky.

In the field for more than 19 years, Dr. Couch offers a variety of treatments for

patients, including extractions; crown and bridge work; and implant restoration for patients of all ages. She is known for listening to her patients; provides facial esthetic procedures; and works closely with them to find the most ideal and affordable treatment individualized to the patient’s needs.

Modern Dental Solutions, a part of Commonwealth Dental Group, serves the local community in London, Pittsburg, East Bernstadt, Lily and other nearby communities. Dr. Couch noted that the premiere London dental clinic consists of a team that is enthusiastic about providing expert dental work as well as making sure patients have a healthy foundation for perfect oral hygiene.

The doctor asserted that dentistry is a branch of medicine that consists of the study, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, disorders, and conditions of the teeth, gums, mouth and jaw. Dentists diagnose and treat dental issues and help patients develop better oral hygiene regimens. They correct bite issues, perform surgeries, address tooth decay, design esthetically beautiful smiles and perform other duties to ensure that the mouth is healthy.

David R. Danly, MD

Psychiatrist

Andrews Center

Tyler, TX

Tyler, TX— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, David R. Danly is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Healthcare Provider for his contributions to the Field of Medicine.

Dr. Danly is a 1988 graduate of John P. and Katherine G. McGovern Medical School at UTHealth. He completed a residency in psychiatry and a fellowship in child & adolescent psychiatry at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston in 1992 and 1994 respectively.

According to the doctor, Andrews Center is a nonprofit community mental health and mental retardation center established by law as a local governmental entity in accordance with the provisions of the Texas Health and Safety Code Title 7 Section 534 Subchapter A. The Center is named for Earl C. Andrews, one of the leading citizens of Tyler Texas who helped found the Center in 1966. Dr. Danley notes that its mission is to provide and coordinate high-quality integrated healthcare services to the East Texas community to achieve independence and well-being.

Dr. Danley asserts that psychiatry is the medical specialty devoted to the diagnosis prevention and treatment of mental disorders. These include various maladaptations related to mood behavior

Dedicated to providing the latest advancements in the cosmetic and implant dentistry, Dr. Couch continually undergoes training for herself and her staff on any new techniques, materials, equipment, and software for her office to better serve her patients.

Among her professional affiliations, Dr. Couch is a Fellow of the University of Kentucky Fellows; a member of the American Dental Association; the American Academy of Facial Esthetics; and the Kentucky Dental Association.

As a mother to 2 wonderful children and aware of the great need for dental healthcare in her area, Dr. Couch noted that she understands the importance of educating kids at a young age about oral health and hygiene and is an Elgin Dentist, providing dental services for underprivileged children from pre-K to 5th grade.

The doctor would like to dedicate this honor to her parents, James “Jimmy” Begley and Sandra Begley and her aunt, Ms. Elizabeth Crawford, who inspired her to enter the dental field as a career. Aside from her professional pursuits, the doctor enjoys reading; watching movies; spending time with family; traveling; shopping; and learning new things.

cognition and perceptions. He explained that psychiatrists evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients with mental emotional and behavioral disorders and conduct thorough psychiatric evaluations develop treatment plans prescribe medication and evaluate treatment results.

Daniel R. Wesley Emergency Medicine/Educator Blue Ridge Community College Spartanburg, SC

Spartanburg, SC— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Daniel R. Wesley is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Life Achiever for his contributions to the fields of Emergency Medicine and Education.

Mr. Wesley pursued higher education at Montreat College where he earned an Associate of Science in Biology in 2010. He later attended Western Carolina University where he received a Bachelor of Science in Emergency Medical Care and a Master’s degree in Health Science. In addition to this scholarship, he is certified as a paramedic in NC and SC, as well as a National Registry Paramedic; a National EMS Educator (NAEMSE) Level l and Level 2 Instructor; a NC Level 2 Paramedic Instructor; a Basic (BLS) and Advanced

Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) Instructor; and a Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS) and Handtevy Instructor as well as a Prehospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS) Instructor.

Mr. Wesley began his distinguished career in the medical field serving as a field training officer and lead senior paramedic 3 for Spartanburg EMS and as a clinical preceptor and emergency medical technician for Western Carolina University, which he joined in 2021. Currently an educator at Blue Ridge Community College, Mr. Wesley is an expert in pre-hospital care for emergency medical services and teaches pre-hospital providers in training; maintains his program’s accreditation with national and state accrediting bodies; oversees all emergency medical sciences courses for quality and for adherence to college, state and national regulations; maintains relationships with community partners; and facilitates trainings.

With more than a decade of experience in the field, Mr. Wesley is recognized for his exceptional direction of the Emergency Medical Science Program and is proud to have been awarded his college’s 2022 Faculty Person of the Year after just a year at the institution. He attributes his success to his passion for helping others, a quality

that he honed as an Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America.

Looking to the future, Mr. Wesley plans to remain active in higher education and to continue expanding the scope of operations at the Emergency Medical Science Program. He asserts that the paramedic program is on track to double in size which is an exciting time to lead the program. Continuing his legacy of excellence, Mr. Wesley hopes to become the dean or vice president of the college.

Dedicated to providing the latest innovations in the field, Mr. Wesley is a member of the National Association of Emergency Medical Technicians and the National Association of Emergency Medical Services Educators. He considers being able to teach the next generation of paramedics as a career highlight and would like to acknowledge his mentors, Dr. Denise Wilfong and Dr. Evelyn Wilson, and Philip Hosmer and thank them for their support and guidance.

Mr. Wesley notes that his success is mostly due to implementing his philosophy that he “treats patients like family,” and that extends to his students at the college. Aside from his professional pursuits, the educator enjoys vacationing in Florida with his family, hiking, and camping.

Dena Lynn Lodato

Small Animal Surgeon

Resurge Veterinary Surgical Specialists and Rehabilitation

Covington, LA

Covington, LA— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Dena Lynn Lodato is acknowledged as a Most Trusted Pet Healthcare Provider for her contributions to Small Animal Surgery.

Dr. Lodato began her academic journey from Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science in 2003. She then attended Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine where she earned a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 2008. The doctor completed an internship at the Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine in 2009 and finished a residency at Mississippi State University in 2013. She also earned a Master of Science from Mississippi State University in 2013.

A diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons since 2015, Dr. Lodato is a small animal surgeon and owner of Resurge Veterinary Surgical Specialists and Rehabilitation that she opened 2021. Prior to this post, she served as an associate surgeon in Louisiana for several

years was head of a surgical department in Mississippi, and worked at the Red Bank Veterinary Hospital immediately after her residency.

Dedicated to providing the latest advancements in the field, Dr. Lodato is affiliated with the Louisiana Veterinary Medical Association; the American College of Veterinary Surgeons; Society of Veterinary Soft Tissue Surgery; and the American Veterinary Medical Association. Dr. Lodato attributes her success to her drive, perfectionism, and commitment to continual improvement. She considers opening her own practice and attaining Diplomate status the highlights in her career and plans to continue expanding her business and hiring more specialists.

Aside from her professional pursuits, Dr. Lodato enjoys art, motorcycles, fitness, and spending time in nature.

David Gordon, MD Director of Faculty Programs for the Office for Health, Equity and Inclusion and Active Emeritus Professor of Pathology University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI

Ann Arbor, MI— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, David Gordon, MD, is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Life Achiever 2023 for his contributions to the fields of Cardiovascular Pathology; Medical Research; and Education.

Dr. Gordon began his educational journey at Amherst College where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry. He then attended Harvard Medical School receiving a Medical Degree. While at Harvard, he completed a Vascular Biology

Research Fellowship under Dr. Morris J. Karnovsky and continued his extensive medical training with an Internal Medicine Internship at the University of Massachusetts in Worcester, MA This was followed by an Anatomic Pathology Residency at the University of Washington in Seattle. Dr. Gordon also participated in post-doctoral medical research at The University of Washington. Board certified by the American Board of Pathology, the doctor is a member of the Society for Cardiovascular Pathologists, as well as many other professional affiliations.

Dr. Gordon began his teaching career on the faculty at the University of Washington as a human diagnostic and experimental cardiovascular pathologist. In 1991, he was recruited to the University of Michigan, where his focus has been on human atherosclerosis biology and gene therapy for vascular diseases.

The doctor, a Cardiovascular Pathologist, has more than 20 years of experience and serves as the Director of Faculty Programs for the Office for Health, Equity, and Inclusion at the University of Michigan. He is also an Active Emeritus Professor of Pathology and Dean Emeritus for the

School of Health Professions and Studies at the University of Michigan-Flint.

Dr. Gordon previously served as an Assistant Dean for Faculty Affairs for the University of Michigan Medical School. He was affiliated with Pfizer’s Cardiovascular Therapeutics from 1997 to 2001 where his team of researchers conducted work on gene therapy for therapeutic angiogenesis. He returned to the University of Michigan full time in 2001 and became Dean of the School of Health Professions and Studies at the University of Michigan-Flint. As Director of Faculty Programs for the Office of Health Equity and Inclusion at the university, Dr. Gordon remains active in pathology instruction.

Aside from his professional pursuits, the doctor enjoys video game strategy, playing guitar, and singing. Dr. Gordon would like to thank his dear wife, Zoe Koosis, for her love and support. He also lovingly acknowledges and remembers his parents, the late William and Elizabeth Gordon. He dedicates this honor to his mentors Dr. Morris J. Karnovsky; Dr. Steven Schwartz; Dr. Dennis Richenbach; and Dr. Stephen Betz.

Dipesh B. Patel, MD Family Physician

Cleveland Clinic Martin Health

Palm City, FL

Palm City, FL— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Dipesh B. Patel is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Healthcare Professional for his contributions to Family Medicine.

The doctor began his academic journey at Boston University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. He

then attended the American University of Antigua, where he received an MD. He then went on to perform his residency in family medicine at Hoboken University Medical Center from 2009 until 2012, when he joined Martin Health at St. Lucie West.

Board-certified in family medicine, Dr. Patel is known for his thorough communication when educating patients on their conditions. He asserts that he views the whole person for the underlying cause of their condition and treats for hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, and general psychiatric issues.

The doctor explained that family medicine is a medical specialty devoted to comprehensive health care for people of all ages. Specialists like Dr. Patel are called family physicians or family doctors. A family physician is often the first person a patient sees when seeking healthcare services. They examine and treat patients with a wide range of conditions and refer

those with serious ailments to a specialist or appropriate facility.

Dr. Patel serves the local population at Cleveland Clinic Martin Health, a healthcare practice providing a wide range of healthcare resources close to home. The facility is conveniently located for residents in the fastest-growing area of the Treasure Coast and has provided access to vital medical care since 1995. In addition to his primary career, Dr. Patel has served as an Assistant Clinical Professor of Family Medicine at Florida State University for the past 8 years.

The doctor is dedicated to providing the latest in advancements and is a member of the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Family Physicians. He has been married to Mrs. Kunjal Patel for 12 years and they have one child. The doctor would like to thank his parents, Bhagavat and Hemlata Patel, and all his siblings for their support.

David Grant Stewart Jr., MD

Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon

Cure 4 The Kids Foundation

Henderson, NV

Henderson, NV— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, David Grant Stewart, Jr. is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Life Professional for his contributions to the field of Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery.

Dr. Stewart pursued higher education at Brigham Young University where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology in 1999. He later earned a medical degree from the University of Colorado School of Medicine and continued to complete his residency in orthopedic surgery at the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston in 2004. He completed a fellowship in pediatric orthopedic surgery at Childrens Hospital Los Angeles in 2005.

Known as a caring and compassionate pediatric orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Stewart currently works at Cure 4 The Kids Foundation in Las Vegas, Nevada. He explained that the Pediatric Orthopedic

Center at Cure 4 The Kids Foundation is the only pediatric orthopedic surgery practice in a Joint Commission-accredited facility in Nevada and is dedicated to providing outstanding medical care to children according to principles of evidence-based medicine. The doctor is affiliated with several hospitals, including Sunrise Hospital & Medical Center, Summerlin Hospital Medical Center, St. Rose Dominican Hospital Siena Campus, and University Medical Center. He treats the full range of pediatric orthopedic conditions including injuries and fractures; congenital deformities; developmental issue; benign tumors; limb reconstruction; and gait disturbance.

Dr. Stewart is board-certified in orthopedic surgery by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery (ABOS), an organization with the goal of establishing educational and professional standards for orthopedic residents and surgeons as well as evaluating the qualifications and competence of orthopedic surgeons. He explained that orthopedic surgery is the branch of surgery concerned with conditions involving the musculoskeletal system and orthopedic surgeons use both surgical and non-surgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors, and congenital disorders.

Heavily influenced by his mentor, Vernon Tolo, M.D., the doctor’s extensive education and experience has given him special expertise in treating complex

and medically fragile children. Dr. Stewart is considered an expert in the full spectrum of pediatric orthopedic surgery including trauma, gait disturbance, limb deformities, and developmental abnormalities. He also works with special needs patients and strives to provide continuous quality of care and transparent communication with his patients and their families.

The doctor has expanded his service to include collaboration with a hospital in Ukraine and hosts physicians that come to his area to learn about pediatric orthopedic procedures. Dedicated to providing the latest advancements in his field, Dr. Stewart attends conferences and other events related to his specialties. In addition to his expertise, the doctor is also fluent in Spanish and Russian, which is helpful for families who are not fluent in English to be educated about the health issues and treatments.

Dr. Stewart has been recognized for his excellence by being awarded the Top Doctor Award by Castle Connolly for twelve consecutive years (2011-2022); has been featured in Vegas Seven Magazine (2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018); and Desert Companion Magazine (2011, 2019, 2020, 2021). He has also received awards from the Consumer Research Council of America and the American Registry’s Most Honored Doctors. He is a member of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons and the Pediatric Orthopedic Society of North America.

Jason Chouake, MD, FAAD

Dermatologist

Cliffside Skin and Laser

Cliffside Park, NJ

Cliffside Park, NJ— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Jason Chouake is acknowledged as a Distinguished Medical

Professional for his contributions to the field of Dermatology.

Dr. Chouake began his educational journey at Yeshiva University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree. He then earned his Medical Doctor degree from Albert Einstein School of Medicine, Montefiore, where he also completed his residency in Dermatology. Considered a leader in his field, Dr. Chouake received the Distinction in Dermatological Research Award during his residency at Albert Einstein School of Medicine and is considered an expert in general dermatology; skin cancer; moles; eczema; psoriasis; Botox; filler; and liquid rhinoplasty.

A dedicated professional in his field, the doctor has extensive experience in Skin Cancer and Excision; Cosmetic Skin Procedures; and Skin Conditions.

Dr. Chouake is a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and a member of the International Peeling Society and supports the Dermatology Foundation and St. Jude’s. Known for his care for each and every patient, the doctor notes that he takes the time to identify their issues and make them feel comfortable.

When not pursuing his professional interests, Dr. Chouake likes to spend time with his family and travel. He would like to thank his wife and children for their support.

Deniz Baysal, MD, FRCSC Orthopedic Surgeon and Owner

Baysal Orthopedic Institute

Fresno, CA

Fresno, CA—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Deniz Baysal is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Medical Professional for his contributions to the Orthopedic Field.

Dr. Baysal earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of Calgary and received a degree from the Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry at University of Alberta in 1998. He completed his residency in orthopedic surgery at the University of Alberta and finished his fellowship in orthopedic trauma and reconstruction at Parkland Memorial Hospital, Dallas Texas.

Dr. Baysal currently oversees the BAYSAL ORTHOPEDIC INSTITUTE In Fresno,

California. He specializes in complex fractures; minimally invasive and percutaneous techniques, as well as hip knee and shoulder replacements and revisions. He previously served as Associate Professor for UCSF in the UCSF Fresno Orthopedic Surgery Department and instructs physicians in the operating room on trauma and joint replacements. He did this for over 15 years before moving on to Forming the BAYSAL ORTHOPEDIC INSTITUTE which is now the number one source for joint replacements, fractures and sports medicine in central California and the Valley.

Dr. Baysal is also a member of the board of directors for the Fresno Monsters hockey club as well as the team physician for the Fresno Junior and senior Monsters hockey teams. He takes care of complex injuries that occur while playing the physical sport of hockey.

The doctor is board-certified in orthopedic surgery by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery (ABOS). He notes that the ABOS is an organization with the goal of establishing educational and professional standards for orthopedic residents and surgeons as well as evaluating the qualifications and competence of orthopedic surgeons. Dr. Baysal is a Fellow of the Royal College of

Surgeons of Canada (FRCSC). He is also a member of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.

Dr. Baysal holds a license to practice medicine in California and is affiliated with Community Regional Medical Center and Saint Agnes Medical Center. According to the doctor, orthopedic surgery is the branch of surgery concerned with conditions involving the musculoskeletal system. Orthopedic surgeons use both surgical and non-surgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma sports injuries degenerative diseases infections tumors and congenital disorders.

Dr. Baysal has been published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine and has spoken at events hosted by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. He has received many honors, including Compassionate Doctor Recognition (2018 2012); Patients Choice Award (2018 2012); and On-Time Doctor Award (2018). In his spare time, Dr. Baysal enjoys hockey games, hiking, mountain biking, and downhill skiing and was a sailing instructor for seven years in Calgary, Canada. He competed for a position on the men’s national sailing team and was ranked 3rd in Alberta for under 18 at one point prior to pursuing medicine and academics.

Dmitry Zhukovski, DO, MD

Family Practitioner and Owner Private Practice

Brooklyn, NY

Brooklyn, NY—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Dmitry Zhukovski is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the Preventative Healthcare Field.

Dr. Zhukovski earned a Medical Degree from Chernovtsy State Medical Academy in the Ukraine and received Doctor of

Osteopathic degree from the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed a family practice residency at Peninsula Hospital and Medical Center in Far Rockaway, New York and is board certified in family medicine.

Dr. Zhukovski is a family practitioner in Brooklyn NY. He specializes in comprehensive health care for people of all ages. He focuses on preventative care with routine checkups, tests and personalized coaching on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle, as well as diagnosing and treating illnesses. Dr. Zhukovski notes that he possesses immense general knowledge on maintaining health and that today, family practitioners provide more care for the underserved and rural populations than any other medical specialty.

Dr. Zhukovski sees patients of all ages and focuses on preventative healthcare and maintaining a healthy lifestyle

for his patients. He provides same day appointments for those patients, works with emergencies, and waiting time to see the doctor is minimal. He has been in this position for 20 years and in the field for more than 30 years.

The doctor also teaches medical and nursing students who are completing rotations for their training at his office. He is associated with the American Osteopathic Association and American College of Family Practitioners.

He would like to dedicate this honor to his parents, Bella and Samuel Lantsman; and in loving memory of his father, Samuel. Dr. Zhukovski has been married to Mrs. Vera Zhukovski for 29 years. They have a son and a daughter.

For more information about Dr. Zhukovski, please visit his website at www. ngm-medical.com.

Dennis K. Burns, MD Pathologist and Professor Emeritus

The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center

Dallas, TX

Dallas, TX— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Dennis K. Burns is acknowledged as a Most Trusted Healthcare Provider for his contributions to the field of Neuropathology.

Dr. Burns began his educational journey at Baylor University where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry in 1974. He then attended Texas Southwestern Medical school where he received an MD in 1978. The doctor changed to anatomic and clinical pathology during residency which he completed at Parkland Hospital and the Dallas Veterans Administration Medical Center and capped his scholarship with fellowships in surgical pathology, and neuropathology completed at the University of Texas Southwestern from 1978 to 1985.

Board-certified in anatomic, clinical, and neuropathology by the American Board of

Pathology (ABPath), Dr. Burns notes that the mission of the ABPath is to promote the health of the public and advance the practice and science of pathology by establishing voluntary certification standards and assessing the qualifications of those seeking to practice the specialty of pathology. The doctor is a Distinguished Teaching Professor (Emeritus) within the Department of Pathology at UT Southwestern Medical Center teaching both undergraduate and graduate medical education collaborative research with numerous UT Southwestern laboratories and clinical neuropathology with special emphasis on neuromuscular pathology since 1984. The doctor explained that “teaching has always been a source of deep satisfaction and inspiration to me. It is a privilege to be able to share knowledge and, perhaps more importantly, to inspire others to actively engage in the learning process. This takes on special significance for me when I remember that those individuals that I have the privilege of teaching are those who will provide medical care for other human beings. The benefits of teaching are reciprocal in that teaching, more than any other activity, inspires me to remain a life-long learner.”

An expert in his field, Dr. Burns is boardcertified in anatomic and clinical pathology & neuropathology by the American Board of Pathology (ABPath). The mission of the ABPath is to promote the health of the public and advance the practice and science of pathology by establishing voluntary

certification standards and assessing the qualifications of those seeking to practice the specialty of pathology. The doctor explained that pathology is a branch of medical science that involves the study and diagnosis of disease through the examination of surgically removed organs, tissues, bodily fluids, and in some cases, the whole body. Pathologists are physicians who specialize in the diagnosis and management of diseases by laboratory methods. Among his many career accolades, Dr. Burns has received multiple teaching awards for his work in medical education, including the Texas Super Doctors Hall of Fame (2020); Minnie Stevens Piper Professor (2016); University of Texas Regents Outstanding Teaching Award (2016); Texas Super Doctors (2015-2020); UT Southwestern Medical School Academic Marshal (2010-2018); Best Doctors in America (2009-2020); PreClinical Distinguished Educator Award (2006); Alpha Omega Alpha (1977); State of Texas Merit Scholarship (1975;) Robert A. Welch Foundation Merit Scholarship (19721974); Medical Student Faculty Teaching Awards (1984 1985 1994 1998 1999 2000 2001 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2014 2016 2017); and Vernie A. Stembridge Faculty Teaching Award (1993 2015).

Aside from his professional pursuits, Dr. Burns is an avid fly fisherman, fly tyer, and student of history. He asserts that he cherishes time with his family.

John Ashton Vellequette, DDS, MAGD

Owner and Dentist

Smile Center Silicon Valley Sunnyvale, CA

Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, John Ashton Vellequette is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the field of Dentistry.

Dr. Vellequette began his academic journey at the University of California at Davis where he earned a BS in nutritional sciences. He then attended the University of Buffalo, School of Dentistry where he received a DDS, minoring in periodontics. The doctor practices in Sunnyvale, CA. and specializes in preventing; diagnosing; and treating diseases and conditions associated with the mouth and overall dental health. He notes that dentists are trained to carry out such treatment as professional cleaning restorative prosthodontic and endodontic procedures and performing examinations among many others.

Known for his thorough care and compassion, Dr. Vellequette provides comprehensive dental care to manage overall oral health and communicates with his patients. He is an expert in

dentistry and focuses on extractions, root canals, and a wide range of esthetic dental procedures. Located in Sunnyvale, California, the doctor works in private practice and serves a local population.

Dedicated to providing the latest in advancements in his field, the doctor is a member of the ADA; California Dental Association; Santa Clara County Dental Association; and Fellow and Master of the Academy of General Dentistry. Dr. Vellequette notes that his mentors are Larrt Rosenthal; DDS, Bill Dickerson, DDS; Robert Lee, DDS; and Pete Dawson, DDS. Always willing to serve in the community, doctor has participated in mission trips to Tijuana, Mexico, and in Santa Clara, California for the underprivileged.

Devon G. John, MD, FACS

Transplant Surgeon and Chief of Renal Transplantation

Westchester Medical Center

White Plains, NY

White Plains, NY—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Devon G. John, MD, FACS, is acknowledged as a Distinguished Healthcare Professional for his contributions to the field of Renal Transplantation.

Dr. John pursued higher education at the prestigious Princeton University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. He continued at The Mount Sinai School of Medicine where he received his medical degree. He completed a residency in general surgery at the SUNY Health Science Center at Brooklyn and became a Transplant Fellow at New York

University Medical Center and a Surgical Research Fellow at The State University of New York.

Dr. John is a renowned transplant surgeon and currently serves as the Chief of Renal Transplantation at Westchester Medical Center (WMC). The doctor notes that Westchester Medical Center is the flagship of the Westchester Medical Center Health Network (WMCHealth) and is a 415-bed academic hospital. One of three hospitals located on the Networks Westchester County New York campus, the institution was founded in 1917 and is the regional base of tertiary and quaternary care and the primary referral facility for other hospitals serving as a lifeline for millions of people in the Hudson Valley.

Prior to joining WMC in 2019, Dr. John served as the Interim Chair of Surgery and the Chief of Transplantation at The State University of New York Downstate Medical Center. Board-certified in general and transplant surgery by the American Board of Surgery (ABS), Dr. John asserts that the ABS is an independent non-profit organization located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania founded for the purpose of certifying surgeons who have met a defined standard of education training and knowledge.

Revered as an exceptional surgeon, Dr. John explained that transplant surgery is where an organ in the body is replaced with an organ from a donor. A transplant surgeon is a surgeon who performs organ transplants, which may include kidneys, livers, hearts, lungs, the pancreas, the intestine (especially the small intestine), and recently, faces, tracheal (windpipe) tissue, and penises.

Dr. John’s has earned many awards and recognitions during his extraordinary career, including Schneps Media Award in 2019 and being recognized as a Top Doctor in the New York Metro Area by the digital guide every year from 2018 to 2022. He has also been named a Top Doctor by Westchester Magazine from 2020 to 2022 and by New York Magazine in 2021 and 2022.

The doctor credits his successful career to his mentors John Bonner Ph.D., and Bruce Sommer, MD. Aside from his professional pursuits, Dr. John participates in medical mission work to Haiti and Jamaica with the LJDR Davis Foundation and Medinova. He would like to dedicate this honor to his mother, Mrs. Millicent John, and in loving memory of his father, Mr. Peter John.

Elmer Cupino, MD, FAPA

Psychiatrist

Private Practice

Pottsville, PA

Pottsville, PA— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Elmer Cupino is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the field of Psychiatry.

Dr. Cupino sought higher education at the University of Montemorelos where he earned a medical degree in 1984. He

then completed residency in psychiatry at the Eastern Virginia Medical School in 1990, followed by a fellowship in child & adolescent psychiatry at the University of Massachusetts in 1992.

Board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) in child & adolescent psychiatry, the doctor notes that the ABPN is a not-for-profit corporation dedicated to promoting highquality patient care for the public through the initial and continuing certification of psychiatrists and neurologists. He currently sees patients at his private practice in Pottstown, Pennsylvania and is also an assistant professor at the Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine where he has worked since 2020.

Dr. Cupino explained that psychiatry is the medical specialty devoted to the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of mental disorders. These include

various maladaptation’s related to mood, behavior, cognition, and perceptions. Psychiatrists evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients with mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. They conduct thorough psychiatric evaluations; develop treatment plans; prescribe medication; and evaluate treatment results.

Dedicated to providing the latest advancements in his field, Dr. Cupino is an active member of the American Psychiatric Association and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Aside from his professional pursuits, Dr. Cupino, who was born and raised in Mexico, enjoys a range of hobbies and interests including reading books on a variety of topics and classical music of which he is an avid fan. A sports enthusiast, the doctor loves to watch sports in his free time and enjoys vacationing at Virginia Beach, VA.

Edward H. Lowe, MD Family Physician

Private Practice

New York, NY

New York, NY—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Edward H. Lowe, M.D. is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the field of Family Medicine.

Dr. Lowe began his educational journey at the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons where he earned a Medical. He completed his general surgical residency at the Bronx Municipal Hospital Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine (1974-1976) and Harlem Hospital Center at Columbia University (1976-1977).

Known for his compassion and excellent service, Dr. Lowe has been a general medical practitioner specializing in primary ambulatory care since 1987. He also served as a medical officer at the State University

of New York Maritime College from 1984 to 1989, where he was the director of student health services, coordinator and instructor of the course “Ship’s Medicine Chest & Medical Aid at Sea,” and medical director of the New York State Emergency Medical Technician Certification course.

Dr. Lowe’s diverse experiences include a post as a U.S. Civil Surgeon and Medical Examiner for the Immigration and Naturalization Service, U.S. Dept. of Justice from 1989 to 2016. In this distinguished position, he coordinated and consulted with the CDC, state & city health departments, and the USCIS of Homeland Security. Lowe also worked as a Naval Flight Surgeon for the United States Navy from 1980 to 1983, where he was a senior flight surgeon for Carrier Air Wing 14 aboard the U.S.S. Coral Sea (CVW 43). Dr. Lowe worked as a fee-based provider for Chenga Tri-Services, LLC, as a contractor for the Department of Defense from 2016 to 2019, performing physical examinations and medical record reviews in accordance with DoD Instruction 6130.03, “Medical Standards for Appointment, Enlistment, or Induction in the Military Services” and UMMEPCOM Regulation 40-2 at the Military Entrance Processing Service (MEPS).

Dr. Lowe was recognized early in his career as a professional with extraordinary leadership skills and served as an emergency room physician and assistant visiting

attending surgeon from 1977 to 1980. In this position, he developed the Policy & Procedure Manual for the Emergency Room of Sydenham Hospital and special protocols for identifying and reporting domestic violence for the Emergency Room personnel of Sydenham Hospital. He was also clinical instructor for the City College of New York/ Harlem Hospital Physician’s Assistant Program from 2005 to 2008; a preceptor for the University of Southern California Primary Care Clerkship since 1997; and the New York Medical College Introduction to Clinical Practice from 1991 to 1996.

In addition to his medical practice, Dr. Lowe is an accomplished author whose work includes “Bioavailability of Digoxin tablets in Patients with Gastrointestinal Dysfunction” by Gerson CD, Lowe EH, Lindenbaum J, AM J MED (1980 Jul) 69 (i):43-49. A testament to his excellence in the field, he was featured in Who’s Who in American Colleges & Universities in 1970.

The doctor has been a member of The Riverside Church in the City of New York since April, 1963 and is affiliated with many professional organizations, including The Manhattan Central Medical Society of the National Medical Association; the New York County Medical Society of the American Medical Association; and the International Society on Hypertension in Blacks.

Helen Khilkin-Sogoloff

Pulmonologist

Maimonides

New York, NY

New York, NY— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Helen KhilkinSogoloff is recognized as a Pinnacle Life Professional for her contributions to the field of Osteopathic Medicine.

Dr. Khilkin-Sogoloff pursued a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1994. She then completed an internship at St. Vincent’s Hospital Medical Center; a residency in internal medicine at the North Shore University Hospital and completed a fellowship in pulmonary disease at the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center.

The doctor explained that pulmonology is a medical specialty that deals with asthma; COPD; lung cancer diagnosis; interstitial lung disease; infections of the lungs; and post-COVID pulmonary complications. She notes that a pulmonologist is also an internal medicine physician who specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating conditions and diseases that affect the lungs and the respiratory system including the nose pharynx and throat.

Providing the most advanced technology in a state-of-the-art facility, Dr. KhilkinSogoloff is affiliated with Maimonides Medical Center serving patients with lung problems ranging from routine to esoteric. She notes that Maimonides Doctors Brighton Beach provides patients multidisciplinary services that includes the Shaknovich Cardiology Wellness Institute; cardiology; cardiothoracic surgery; vascular surgery; pulmonology; and endocrinology with more to come.

Fluent in both English and Russian, Dr. Khilkin-Sogoloff would like to dedicate this honor to her mentor, Dr. Dorothy White in memoriam and to Dr. Stover. Aside from her professional pursuits, the doctor enjoys skiing, hiking, gardening, and spending time with her family. The doctor also supports local and community charities and civic organizations.

F. Cleveland Kinney, Ph.D., M.D.

Professor at Emeritus of Psychiatry Emeritus of Psychiatry

Birmingham, AL

Birmingham, AL— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, F. Cleveland Kinney is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Platinum Healthcare and Education Professional for his contributions to the field of Psychiatry.

Dr. Kinney earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Art from BirminghamSouthern College and served in the US Navy for 4 years. He is a Vietnam Era Veteran and left the service with the rank of Petty Officer 2nd class. He later earned a Ph.D. in Anatomy, emphasizing Neuroanatomy from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. After teaching for 5 years, Dr. Kinney completed his MD at the University of Alabama, School of Medicine. He completed a residency in psychiatry at University Hospital in Birmingham and a fellowship in Geriatric Psychiatry at the University of Alabama,

School of Medicine. Dr. Kinney is board certified in general psychiatry.

Working in this position for 33 years and in the field for 47 years, Dr. Kinney specializes in geriatrics and has been a senior scientist at both the Comprehensive Neuroscience Center and the General Clinical Research Center at UAB. Board-certified in Psychiatry through the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN), Dr. Kinney explained that the ABPN is a not-for-profit corporation dedicated to serving the professions of psychiatry and neurology. Psychiatry is the medical specialty devoted to the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of mental disorders. These include various mal-adaptations related to mood behavior, cognition and perceptions. Psychiatrists evaluate, diagnose and treat patients with mental, emotional and behavioral disorders. They conduct thorough psychiatric evaluations, develop treatment plans, prescribe medication and evaluate treatment results.

A leader in his field, Dr. Kinney has received many accolades during his career, including the Top Doctors in America, and in 2018, was awarded the Distinguished Alumnus Award from the University of Alabama Medical Alumni Association. Dr. Kinney has also been chosen for a number of honors including the Exemplary Psychiatrist Award from the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, several Argus Society Awards for

Excellence in Teaching, and Outstanding Faculty Teacher by the UAB Psychiatry Residents Association. Dr. Kinney received the Distinguished Alumnus Award from Birmingham-Southern College (2009); and the F. Cleveland Kinney Chair in Geriatric Psychiatry at the University of Alabama at Birmingham was established by Winton and Carolyn Blount in 2000.

Dedicated to providing the latest advancements in his field, Dr. Kinney is a member of the American Psychiatric Association, the American College of Psychiatrists, the Alabama State Medical Association; and was a past president of and is a member of the Jefferson County Medical Society. Dr. Kinney was a member of the Jefferson County Board of Health from 2007-2012 and served as chairman in 2010. He also served on the Board of the Jefferson County Medical Society from 2007-2016 and as Society president in 2015.

Dr. Kinney would like to dedicate this honor to his mentors, William Bailey, Ph.D., and Virginia Rembert-Lyles, Ph.D. Both are professors at BirminghamSouthern College. He is especially grateful to Elizabeth C. Crosby, Ph.D., his mentor during his Ph.D. studies. Aside from his professional pursuits, Dr. Kinney serves on the Board of Directors for Opera Birmingham (philanthropic) and is a Trustee for the Birmingham Historical Society.

Haley Neef, MD

Pediatric Gastroenterologist

Private Practice

Ann Arbor, MI

Ann Arbor, MI— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Haley Neef is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle

Healthcare Professional for her contributions to the field of Pediatric Gastroenterology.

Dr. Neef began her educational journey at Kalamazoo College where she earned a Bachelor’s degree. She then attended the University of Miami receiving a Master’s degree and then completing a residency and fellowship at the University of Michigan.

Dr. Neef practices in Ann Arbor, MI and specializes in digestive system, liver or nutritional problems in children from the newborn period to their teens. She is considered an expert in pediatric gastroenterology and specializes in

conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, lactose intolerance, chronic constipation and obesity.

The doctor credits much of her success to her mentors Dr. Chris Dickinson and Dr. Shelly Pisors and applying her philosophy to “get the facts right and explain.” The doctor is an avid volunteer and counts many medical missions to Haiti and Panama to be among her career highlights. In her spare time, Dr. Neef enjoys volunteering and spending time with her family.

Franklin W. Harry, DPM Founder and Podiatrist Best Foot Forward

St. Louis, MO

St. Louis, MO—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Franklin W. Harry, DPM, is acknowledged as a Most Trusted Medical Professional for his contributions to in the Podiatric Field.

Dr. Harry began his medical educational journey at Barry University in Miami where he earned a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree. He completed his surgical residency at Wyckoff Heights Medical Center and received advanced training with the Central Kentucky Diabetes Fellowship, specializing in complex wounds, limb salvage, and the biomechanics of fall prevention.

The founder of Best Food Forward, Dr. Harry noted that podiatry is a branch of

medicine devoted to the study of diagnosis and medical and surgical treatment of various disorders of the foot, ankle, and lower extremities. He explained that a podiatrist, also known as a podiatric physician or a foot and ankle surgeon, is a medical professional devoted to treating disorders of the foot, ankle, and lower extremities. They can treat injuries and complications from ongoing health issues like diabetes.

Best Foot Forward has offices in Festus and St. Louis, MO. Specializing in diabetic wound care and foot and ankle surgery, the doctor notes that he enjoys working in all areas of foot and ankle care. He is considered an expert in bone deformities and arthritis, and foot and ankle injuries.

According to Dr. Harry, Best Foot Forward (BFF) is committed to providing excellent podiatric care by enhancing the quality of life of patients with foot, ankle, and leg problems. He added that BFF strives to preserve and restore the health of the lower extremities and provide patientcentered care. His team of podiatrists treat everything from difficult-to-trim toenails; calluses; warts; foot infections; diabetic wound care; fall prevention; and surgical foot and ankle repairs.

German Lopez, MD, CCD

Diagnostic Radiologist

Carolina CT & Breast Clinic

Terrazas Guaynabo, Puerto Rico

Terrazas Guaynabo, Puerto Rico— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, German Lopez is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Healthcare Professional for his contributions to the field of Diagnostic Radiology.

Dr. Lopez pursued his medical education at the University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine in 1980 where he earned a medical degree. Upon relocating to the United States, the doctor completed an internship at Richmond University Medical Center in 1981; a residency in diagnostic radiology with Cook County

Health and Hospitals System in 1984; and a fellowship in body imaging/ cross sectional imaging/MRI at St. Louis University School of Medicine in 1985.

A fellowship-trained diagnostic radiologist and body imaging specialist, Dr. Lopez works at Hato Rey X-Ray Imaging Center and Carolina CT & Breast Clinic in Puerto Rico. He explained that the mission of Hato Rey X-Ray and Carolina CT & Breast Clinic is to provide patients with accurate diagnoses in the shortest possible time in a professional environment. The doctor is trained in the latest advancements in the field and asserts that the clinic has sophisticated equipment for direct capture digital mammography with CAD ultrasound machines; multi-detector computed tomography (CT Scan); MRI bone densitometry (DXA); and digital X-rays to offer patients and the medical community excellent and quality services.

Dedicated to providing his patients with the latest advancements in his field, the doctor is a member of the American Association of Podiatric Practice Management and is board-certified by the American Board of Multiple Specialties in Podiatry. He is a member of the American Board of Podiatry; the Relias Wound Care Institute; the Missouri Podiatric Medical Association; and the Illinois Podiatric Medical Association.

Aside from his professional pursuits, Dr. Harry volunteers with Peter and Paul and Biddel House homeless shelters, providing podiatric medical care for the less fortunate. He also goes on mission trips to Haiti with Hands Helping Haiti and to Guatemala with Washington University.

In his spare time, Dr. Harry enjoys spending time with his wife, Misty Gonzalez, Pharm. D., to whom he has been married since 2017. They have one child and a dog named Bentley. They enjoy cooking; hiking; scuba diving; exploring new restaurants; and are avid sports fans. Dr. Harry wishes to thank his mentors Ronald Guberman, DPM; Jonathan Moore, DPM; and Pamela Jensen, DPM.

For more information, visit www.bffdocs.com.

Dr. Lopez asserts that diagnostic radiology refers to the field of medicine that uses non-invasive imaging scans to diagnose a patient. A diagnostic radiologist is a physician who uses imaging methodologies to diagnose and manage patients and provide therapeutic options. The doctor can perform and interpret the results of diagnostic imaging tests like MRIs or X-rays.

A leader in his field, Dr. Lopez is a member of numerous professional organizations including the Radiological Society of Puerto Rico and European Congress of Radiology. Aside from his professional pursuits, he volunteers his time with several faith-based programs at local churches providing training in job skills.

Gary L. Berg, DO, FCCP

Pulmonologist

Ascension Macomb-Oakland Hospital Madison Heights Campus

Bloomfield Hills, MI

Bloomfield Hills, MI— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Gary L. Berg is acknowledged as a Distinguished Healthcare Professional for his contributions to the Pulmonology Field.

Dr. Berg began his scholarship at Michigan State University where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Microbiology and

Public Health from. He then attended Des Moines University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1983 where he received a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree and completed an internship and residency at Ascension Macomb-Oakland Hospital. Board-certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine (AOBIM) in pulmonology, the doctor notes that the AOBIM is an organization that provides board certification to qualified Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs) who specialize in the prevention diagnosis and treatment of disease in adults (internists).

Known for his compassion and individualized attention to patients, Dr. Berg practices at Ascension Macomb-Oakland Hospital Madison Heights Campus and makes sure patients are educated on their conditions. He asserts that his practice is limited to pulmonary medicine; pulmonary allergic disorders; and sleep disorders. The doctor is licensed to practice medicine in Michigan and is affiliated with Ascension

River District Hospital; Ascension St. John Hospital; and Ascension Macomb-Oakland Hospital Warren Campus.

Dr. Berg is an expert in his field and an active member of the American Osteopathic Association (AOA), which he notes represents more than 178,000 osteopathic physicians and medical students. He explained that he AOA promotes public health and serves as the primary certifying body for Dos and that pulmonology is a medical specialty that deals with diseases involving the respiratory tract. A pulmonologist is an internal medicine physician who specializes in conditions and diseases that affect the lungs and the respiratory system.

Recognized for excellence in care, Dr. Berg is the recipient of the Patients’ Choice Award (2017) and donates to various charitable organizations on a regular basis. The doctor has been married to Mrs. Carolyn Berg for 30 years and they have one daughter, Elizabeth.

Haris Choudry, MD, MPH

Physiatrist

SUNY Downstate Medical Center New York, NY

New York, NY— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Haris Choudry is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the fields of Physiatry and Orthopedics.

Dr. Choudry began his educational journey at the University of Oklahoma where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry. He then continued his scholarship at the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine where he received his medical degree and completed his residency in physical medicine & rehabilitation at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University. He also holds a Master of Public Health degree from the Johns

Hopkins School of Public Health which has provided him with a strong foundation in public health principles and practices.

Board-certified in physical medicine and rehabilitation by the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (ABPMR), the doctor notes that the mission of the ABPMR is to serve the public by improving the quality of patient care in physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R). Dr. Choudry specializes in the care and treatment of individuals with orthopedic injuries; amputation; musculoskeletal issues, including chronic pain and arthritis; neurologic conditions, as well as severe deconditioning and general debility.

According to Dr. Choudry, physical medicine and rehabilitation, also known as physiatry, is a branch of medicine that aims to enhance and restore functional ability and quality of life to those with physical impairments or disabilities. Physiatrists treat a wide variety of medical conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons.

A leader in his field, the doctor is the Medical Director of Inpatient

Rehabilitation Associate Residency Program Director of PM&R and an attending physician at SUNY Downstate Medical Center. Actively involved in the education and training of medical students and residents Dr. Choudry also serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University and is the Associate Student Clerkship Director.

Revered by peers and patients for his exceptional knowledge, the doctor leads the PM&R Acute Inpatient Rehabilitation and Hospital PM&R consult services as well as oversees resident and medical student education and training, including leading academic and clinical instruction for both groups. His focus is treatment on restoring function and independence and to improve long-term outcomes through increasing knowledge and compliance.

Dedicated to providing the latest advancements in his field, the doctor is a member of the American Association of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation; Association of Academic Physiatrists; New York Society of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation; and International Society of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. The doctor notes that Susan Stickevers, MD, and Derek Ho, DO are his mentors.

George Cybulski, MD, MBA, FACS

Healthcare Researcher and Neurological Surgeon

Humboldt Park Health

River Forest, IL

River Forest, IL— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, George Cybulski is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his work in the Fields of Healthcare Research and Neurological Surgery.

The doctor began his academic journey at the University of Illinois in Urbana Champaign where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. He then received an MD at the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign and Chicago and completed a residency at Rush. The doctor also has certification in Value Measurement in Health Care from the Harvard Business School and holds a Sterile Processing and Distribution Technician certification from the Certification Board of Sterile Processing & Distribution Inc., along with an MBA in Healthcare Management from Loyola University- Chicago.

Dr. Cybulski has had many leadership roles in the medical field, including a post as a neurosurgeon at Northwestern Memorial Hospital and an Associate Professor of Neurological Surgery at Northwestern University-The Feinberg School of Medicine from 1988 to 2019. From 2019 to 2021, Dr. Cybulski was

a Certified Sterile Processing and Distribution Tech and Chief Medical Officer for Vested Medical LLC. He serves as a Consultant Neurosurgeon at Humboldt Park Health; an Associate Professor of Surgery at St. George’s University; and a Physician-Advisor at Surgical Solutions.

Continuing his exceptional service, Dr. Cybulski was the Chairman of the Division of Neurosurgery at John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital of Cook County between 2004 and 2013 where he managed a clinical surgery division with a budget of $2 million; provided direct patient care; oversaw three other neurosurgery attendings; 2 Physician Assistants; two Advanced Practitioner Nurses; five Neurosurgery Residents, and various rotating medical students, as well as Directing a Neurology Training Program.

Dr. George Cybulski practices at Humble Park Health as a Neurological Surgeon in Chicago, IL. In this position, Dr. Cybulski diagnoses, evaluates, and treats disorders of the spine including such disorders as spinal canal stenosis; herniated discs; tumors; fractures; and spinal deformities, among many others.

He considers serving as the Stroger Cook Hospital Chairman of Neurosurgery from 2004-2013 to be a highlight in his career and credits his success to his love for helping patients and collaboration there with Division Administrator, Mrs. Ernestine Daniels.

A leader in both the medical field and the military, Dr. Cybulski served as a neurosurgeon in the United States Army Medical Corps from 1990-1991 with the rank of Major during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm.

He was recognized for his excellence in service receiving the National Defense Service Medal and the Army Commendation Medal. After leaving the military, he worked as the Section Chief of Neurosurgery at Lakeside VA Hospital, where he taught the Residents of Northwestern University Medical School.

The doctor has received several prestigious recognitions, including the 2012 Patient’s Choice Award in March; the 2012 Benton Consolidated High School Alumnus of the Year Award from the Benton Lions Club in April; and the U.S. News and World Report Top Doctor Award in December. He was also appointed as a member of the Council of Regents at Loyola University-Chicago in January 2013 and there is a Neurosurgery Resident Retreat in his name at Northwestern University.

Dedicated to advancing the field, Dr. Cybulski and his peers co-authored the article ‘Predictors of Thirty-Day Readmission after Anterior Cervical Fusion,’ which was published in September 2013 and has written numerous articles for professional journals. His philosophy centers around a deep passion for assisting and improving the lives of his patients, especially in providing specialty care to underserved individuals.

Dr. Cybulski would like to dedicate this honor to his parents, Virginia and George, and thank them for their love and support. He would also like to honor his mentors, Dr. William J. Swinney in memoriam; Dr. Ursula Rowlatt; Dr. Robert Crowell, Dr. Charles D’Angelo, and Dr. Kevin Von Roenn all in loving memory Dr. James Stone. Aside from his professional pursuits, Dr. Cybulski enjoys playing golf.

Henry Cusnir

Interventional Cardiologist/Physician

C-HCA Inc. /Diagnostic Cardiology Associates

Davie, FL

Davie, FL—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Henry Cusnir is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Physician for his contributions to the field of Cardiology.

Dr. Cusnir pursued his Medical degree at Pontificia Universidad Javeriana and successfully graduated in 1993. Considered an expert in Interventional Cardiology, he began working as a physician with the Diagnostic Cardiology Associates in Fort Lauderdale, Florida in 2004 and has also served as an interventional cardiologist for the physician services group of C-HCA, Inc. in 2015. An exceptional practitioner, Dr. Cusnir has worked in the field for more than 20 years and specializes in various forms of cardiology, including

echocardiography and both interventional and clinical cardiology.

Dr. Cusnir leads the field in the treatment of structural heart diseases and peripheral vascular diseases. He regularly handles complex coronary cases for a large number of patients as well as regularly performing sonograms and stress tests for his patients and clients. Dedicated to staying abreast of the advancements in his field, Dr. Cusnir is associated with many organizations, including the American College of Cardiology Foundation where he is distinguished as a Fellow; and Florida Medical Association. In addition to his professional memberships, the doctor has served as an educator at the Posnack Jewish Day School since 2011.

A testament to his exceptional education, training, and leadership, Dr. Cusnir was honored with recognition as an Outstanding Intern in 1997. He has largely attributed his success to his dedication and willingness to be available for his patients and notes that his wife and

parents have also served as a constant source of inspiration. Awarded many accolades during his career, he is particularly proud of his work in treating patients with the latest technological advancements in his field and hopes to grow more involved in the development of new medical technologies.

Dr. Cusnir would like to dedicate this honor to his wife, Claudia, of 26 years; his daughters; and the hospital and office staff.

Imelda Nagtalon, DDS

Dentist

Family Dental Care

San Jose, CA

San Jose, CA— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Imelda Nagtalon is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Platinum Healthcare Professional for her contributions to the field of Dentistry.

Dr. Nagtalon completed her education at the Centro Escolar University School of Dentistry in the Philippines, earning a Doctor of Dental Medicine degree. Fluent in both English and Filipino, the doctor explained that dentistry, also known as

Dental and Oral Medicine, is a branch of medicine that consists of the study; diagnosis; prevention; and treatment of diseases; disorders; and conditions of the oral cavity. She said that dentists diagnose and treat dental issues; help patients develop better oral hygiene regimens; clean teeth; correct bite issues; perform surgeries, extractions, root canals, crowns, bridges, and dentures and perform other duties to ensure that the teeth and mouth are in good health and function properly.

Specializing in general dentistry and TMJ, Dr. Nagtalon works with patients at her private practice, Family Dental Care., and is known to provide exceptional dental care in San Jose, California. The doctor is dedicated to providing the latest advancements in the field and is associated with the American Dental Association (ADA); California Dental Association (CDA); Santa Clara Dental Society (SCDS); and the American Academy of CranioFacial Pain (AACP).

Dr. Nagtalon would like to dedicate this honor to her parents, Bernardino and Leonila; her son, Leonille; Dr. Jak Lin; and grandson, Caleb; her sister, Nancy & Emma; her brother Melvin; nephews and nieces.

Ioanna K. Bolia, MD

Orthopedic Surgeon Resident

USC Epstein Family Center for Sports Medicine at Keck Medicine

Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles, CA— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Ioanna K. Bolia is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions to the field of Orthopedic Sports Medicine.

Dr. Bolia began her academic journey at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in 2013 where she earned a medical degree. She then attended the National & Kapodistrian University of Athens in

2016 receiving a Master of Science degree in Molecular and Applied PhysiologyApplications of Nanotechnology in Orthopedic Surgery. She then completed a postdoctoral research fellowship in hip arthroscopy at the Steadman Philippon Research Institute in 2018; finished a residency in general surgery at Wake Forest Baptist Health in 2019; and earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Orthopedic Surgery from the National & Kapodistrian University of Athens in 2021.

Adding to her exceptional education, Dr. Bolia is currently a Research Associate in Orthopedic Sports Medicine at the USC Epstein Family Center for Sports Medicine at Keck Medicine of USC and expects to graduate with the USC Orthopedic Surgery Residency Class of 2026. The doctor notes that the USC Epstein Family Center for Sports Medicine at Keck Medicine of USC specializes in treating sports-related and recreational injuries affecting the shoulder, knee, hip and elbow. Orthopedic surgery, she explained, is the branch of surgery concerned with

Irene Mazur, MD

Psychiatrist

Center of Revitalizing Psychiatry

Milestone, NJ

Milestone, NJ—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Dr. Irene Mazur is acknowledged as a Distinguished Healthcare Professional for her contributions to the Healthcare field.

Dr. Mazur earned a medical degree with honors from Terlopil University in the Ukraine 1992. She completed a one-year residency in family medicine and finished a psychiatric residency at UMDNJ in Piscataway, NJ. The doctor completed an additional residency at Albany Medical Center Fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry completed at UMDNJ.

Dr. Mazur practices telepsychiatry and treating children, adolescents, and adults for ADHD, depression, and anxiety. She operates a psychiatric consulting service

for nursing homes working with adults and geriatrics and establishes a rapport with her patients. The doctor notes that the Center of Revitalizing Psychiatry provides a full spectrum of outpatient psychiatric and psycho-therapeutic services for children adults and elderly. Its mission is to help adults, adolescents and the elderly restore their mental health and they have successfully done this for more than two decades in New Jersey and more than a decade in Florida by taking a team approach to addressing the individual needs of clients.

According to Dr. Mazur, psychiatry is the medical specialty devoted to the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of mental disorders. These include various maladaptation’s related to mood, behavior, cognition, and perceptions. Psychiatrists evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients with mental emotional and behavioral disorders. They conduct thorough psychiatric evaluations, develop treatment plans, prescribe medication, and evaluate treatment results.

conditions involving the musculoskeletal system. Orthopedic surgeons use both surgical and non-surgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma; spine disease; sports injuries; degenerative diseases; infections; tumors; and congenital disorders.

A testament to her exceptional education and experiences, Dr. Bolia has published more than 90 articles on Pubmed and Google Scholar. She contributes her success to her dedication and passion for helping people.

The doctor speaks Ukrainian, Polish, and Russian and is an active member of the American Psychiatric Association. She has been recognized as a Top Psychiatrist of 2022 by Women in Medicine and has completed research on depression as a result of women being abused at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island.

The doctor would like to thank her entire family for their support. She has been married to Yuri Mazur, MD for 26 years. They have 3 sons.

James C. Lasker, MD

Hematologist-Oncologist

Cleveland Clinic, Scully Welsh Cancer Center

Vero Beach, FL

Vero Beach, FL—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, James C. Lasker is James C. Lasker acknowledged as a Distinguished Medical Professional for his contributions to the field of Oncology.

Dr. Lasker began his scholarship at Yale University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. He then attended Temple University, School of Medicine in Philadelphia for a Medical Doctor degree and completed an internship and internal medicine residency at Emory University. Further advancing his education and training, Dr. Laster completed a Fellowship in hematology-oncology at Baylor College of Medicine and a Fellowship in bone marrow transplant completed at the MD Anderson Cancer Center.

Called to the medical field from a young age, the doctor stated, “When I was five, I decided I wanted to be a physician. I enjoyed putting Band-Aids on my family

members and friends, as well as looking in their mouths with a tongue depressor. I chose medical oncology as a specialty because of my personal experiences with losing loved ones at an early age. I am motivated to come to work by the pure enjoyment of looking after the needs of cancer patients and their families.” He joined Alabama Oncology in 1996, serving as President and Managing Partner from 2011 through 2018, and currently tends to patients at their Alabaster and Princeton offices. The doctor is board certified in internal medicine and medical oncology by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM).

Highly sought out for his exceptional leadership skills, Dr. Lasker is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology and American Society of Hematology. He served as president and manager of The Baptist Physician Alliance (BPA) 2009-2019, which is a physicianled, non-profit, independent evaluation organization driven by doctors who want to achieve higher standards for better care in a rapidly changing world. The doctor is an active member of the Medical Association of Alabama; the Jefferson County Medical Society; and the American Society of Clinical Oncology.

Jennifer L. Scherbauer, DC, ND. LAC

Chiropractor Naturopathic Physician and Acupuncturist Private Practice

Chicago, IL

Chicago, IL— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Jennifer L. Scherbauer, DC, ND. LAC, as a Top Pinnacle Healthcare Professional for her contributions to the Chiropractic field, Natureopathic Medicine, and Acupuncture.

Dr. Scherbauer began her educational journey at the University of Dayton Ohio where she received a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Psychology and pursued a Master’s degree in Applied Anatomy from Case Western Reserve University. She continued to the National

University of Health Sciences where she received a certificate in acupuncture and two doctorates in chiropractic and naturopathic medicine. and a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Psychology from the University of Dayton Ohio.

Considered an expert in pain management, functional endocrinology, and women’s health, Dr. Scherbauer utilizes natural and holistic methods to identify and address the root cause of pain and illness, including chiropractic adjustments; physical therapy; functional laboratory testing; dietary assessment/ nutritional modification; botanical medicine supplementation; homeopathy and traditional Chinese therapies like acupuncture, auricular, therapy, and cupping.

Dr. Scherbauer notes that she has encountered many complex cases that

Dr. Lasker asserts that hematology is the branch of medicine concerned with the study of the cause prognosis treatment and prevention of diseases related to blood and oncology is a branch of medicine that deals with the prevention diagnosis and treatment of cancer. A hematologist-oncologist is a physician who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of cancer; malignant blood diseases such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma; and blood disorders, such as iron-deficiency anemia, clotting abnormalities, hemophilia, and sicklecell disease.

In his spare time, Dr. Lasker has served as the President of the local soup kitchens in Alabama, raising funds for the organization. He also works with “Hand in Paw,” which provides animal or pet therapy to patients. The doctor would like to dedicate this honor to his mentors, Monty Lane, MD; Ken Walker, MD; and Jimmie Harvey, MD.

have emphasized the importance of addressing mental, emotional, and physical causes of disease. Known for being a compassionate and dedicated practitioner, she asserts that she educates her patients and encourages them to take an active role in their own health and wellness.

In her free time Dr. Scherbauer enjoys running, lakefront hiking; exploring the city; and cooking healthy meals for her friends and family. She also enjoys Hydra, Greece, her favorite place to vacation.

Yasmine M. Elamir, MD

Endocrinologist/Co-Founder

MM Jersey City Breathing Center & Jersey City Medical Center/Weight Loss RX Jersey City, NJ

Jersey City, NJ— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Yasmine Elamir is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions to the field of Endocrinology Obesity and Metabolism.

Dr. Yasmine Elamir is a highly accomplished double board-certified Endocrinologist and Internist, currently practicing in Jersey City, New Jersey. A proud New Jersey Native, she obtained her undergraduate degree from Johns Hopkins University in Philosophy before obtaining her medical degree at Ross University. Dr. Elamir then completed her Internal Medicine residency at Jersey City Medical Center, during which she took on the role of lead investigator in a study exploring Diabetes Among Responders to Hepatitis C Treatment.

Driven by a passion to address the pressing need for more endocrinologists and motivated by a strong personal family history of diabetes and obesity, Dr. Elamir went on to complete her Endocrinology fellowship at The Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, affiliated with Mount Sinai Beth Israel. She excelled during her fellowship, serving as Chief Endocrinology Fellow while publishing a review article on Diabetes and Bone health in the Journal of Orthopaedic Trauma and was the lead investigator in a prospective randomized clinical control trial exploring Calcitriol in the Treatment of Covid-19, with results published in the prestigious Bone Journal

and cited in peer review journals over 30 times in the past year. In addition, Dr. Elamir has presented her findings at over 20 poster presentations, 16 online publications, and 8 oral presentations during her training. Dr. Elamir’s contributions to the field of endocrinology extend beyond research, as evidenced by her recent book chapter publication titled Endocrinopathies in Covid-19 in the Third Edition of “A Case Based Guide to Clinical Endocrinology.” In her private practice, Dr. Elamir specializes in diabetes and obesity with a focus on GLP-1 Agonists and Mindframing techniques to achieve weight loss that stays off.

During Medical School Dr Elamir met Dr. Samantha Shrouder and they have been best friends since their time in medical school. Dr. Elamir is a successful Endocrinologist with a thriving practice in New Jersey and a devoted mother of two. Meanwhile, Dr. Shrouder is an Attending Hospitalist Physician and a large hospital in South Florida and a loving mother of three. Dr. Shrouder takes great pride in leading the residency’s wellness program, which includes creating resident wellness workshops aimed at teaching stress management techniques and mindset training to ensure residents can thrive despite the demands of this challenging career.

As they pursued their individual careers, both doctors noticed that many of their patients with chronic diseases also struggled with their weight. They observed that weight management played a crucial role in preventing chronic diseases, especially during the critical period before the onset of the disease.

In 2016, the FDA approved the use of Semaglutide, a GLP-1 agonist prescription drug marketed under the brand names Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus. Although already approved for obesity and diabetes, insurance coverage is limited to patients already diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Merely 10% of insurances cover the medication for obesity, even though obesity is associated with insulin resistance, cardiovascular disease, cancer,

and fatty liver disease. Additionally, no insurance policies currently cover the medication for those who are overweight alone. Together with Dr Elamir and Dr Shrouder combining their experience using GLP-1 Agonists for weight loss and mind framing techniques they created My Weight Loss Rx, which ships GLP-1 agonists straight to the patient’s door with a digital tool kit providing mind framing techniques. They are currently serving New Jersey and Florida but are expanding quickly. Check out their website and blog at www.myweightlossrx.com.

When not in the office, Dr. Elamir enjoys spending quality time with her family. Together with her husband William, both former college-level competitive tennis athletes, they are raising their son Liam, daughter Olivia, and their beloved Bengal cat Ramses. Dr. Shrouder’s impressive academic background includes an undergraduate degree from Florida State University (Go Noles!), a medical doctorate degree from Ross University School of Medicine, and Internal Medicine residency training at Aventura Hospital and Medical Center. She has written and presented multiple poster presentations, including a notable presentation at the esteemed American College of Physicians Conference.

Dr. Shrouder is happily married to Ryan, and they are raising their three beautiful children, Madison, Mason, and Jackson, in Cooper City, Florida. Beyond medicine, Dr. Shrouder is also a Level 1 US Sailing Certified Instructor, and she has traveled the country as a competitive sailor and sailing instructor. In her spare time, she enjoys boating and all water-related activities with her loved ones and friends.

Dr. Elamir would like to thank her husband, Dr. William Grist, for his love and support and her Co-Founder Dr Shrouder’s husband Ryan for his love and support for Dr Shrouder to start My Weight Loss Rx. with her.

Check them out at www.myweightlossrx.com

Jayne F. Dabu, DAOM, Lac, Dipl. Ac.

Acupuncturist and Owner

Lotus Acupuncture & Holistic Health Clinic

Virginia Beach, VA

Virginia Beach, VA— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Jayne F. Dabu is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions to the field of Holistic Medicine.

Ms. Dabu earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Music, minoring in History from Indiana University in Bloomington. The doctor performed as a ballerina for many companies including the Boston Ballet, St. Louis Ballet Company, and the Atlanta Ballet Company. This was followed by a career in technology and she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in computer information systems from DeVry University. She then earned an MBA from American Intercontinental University and a Bachelor of Science in Oriental Medicine. Ms. Dabu also earned an MSAOM in Acupuncture and Oriental medicine from East West College of Natural Medicine, where she interned and worked at Health South Rehabilitation Hospital as an acupuncturist working on closed head trauma, stroke, and hip and knee replacement patients. After graduation, she moved back to Virginia to bring her knowledge to Hampton Roads.

The holistic practitioner also earned a DAOM from Five Branches University in San Jose, California. Her Doctorate capstone was written on The Efficacy of Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine in the Treatment of Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS): Two Case Studies.

Ms. Dabu is board certified in acupuncture and oriental medicine by the National Certification Commission on Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. Ms. Dabu founded Lotus Acupuncture &

Holistic Health Clinic in Virginia Beach, Virginia in November 2011 with a desire to provide the best comprehensive and quality health care available in Hampton Roads. She has also been serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Genesis Botanical Formulas since November of 2020.

According to Ms. Dabu, Lotus Acupuncture & Holistic Health Clinic is an alternative healthcare clinic providing services to clients in the Hampton Roads metro area. With recent developments in the healthcare industry both locally and nationally, the Clinic is poised to take advantage of the growing interest and demand for alternative medicine services. The clinic provides its patients with a balanced perspective between conventional medical paradigm and the rapidly growing alternative medical field. Ms. Dabu combines oriental medicine, herbal therapy with applied kinesiology, nutrition, lifestyle counseling, exercise, spiritual healing, and meditation.

Ms. Dabu is passionate about her patient’s health and wellness which shows in her commitment, compassion, discipline, and love to find solutions to their problems. Her loyal commitment to educating her patients empowers and enables them to transform their health, thus allowing them to make healthy choices in their lives and make a difference in the lives of the people THEY touch.

During her corporate career, Ms. Dabu was diagnosed with cancer. She turned to acupuncture/oriental medicine and nutritional response testing to heal her body and spirit. Through her healers, she discovered natural ways of healing the world with alternative medicine, nutrition, and a renewed sense of spirituality. Ms. Dabu had a strong will to live and worked hard to turn her destiny around. She integrated Eastern and Western Medicine with nutrition meditation spirituality counseling and lifestyle changes to beat cancer, which she successfully did.

Inspired by her journey and her team of wonderful healers, Ms. Dabu knew she wanted to pay it forward and help others who were dealing with health challenges. She meditated and prayed, asking the

Universe to guide her. Her Higher-Self guided her to Acupuncture School.

Ms. Dabu furthered her education and attended Five Branches University in San Jose California. She received her Doctorate of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (DAOM) specializing both in Women’s Health and Endocrinology and Neuromuscular Medicine and Pain Management. She is a Diplomat in Acupuncture by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine and is certified in Advanced Clinical Training of Nutrition Response Testing awarded by Ulan Nutritional Systems Inc. She is also certified in Auricular Medicine, External Taoist Qigong, Healing Hypnotherapy, Acupoint Injection Therapy, and Bioenergetics Homeopathy.

As a cancer survivor she deeply understands the continuing journey patients must travel to heal their physical emotional and spiritual being. She notes that acupuncture is a form of holistic medicine and a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is a technique in which thin needles are inserted into the body and in some cases electro-stimulation is applied to gently stimulate particular regions of the body. Acupuncture is also used to maintain general health and well-being. Acupuncturists treat a variety of physical and psychological issues such as anxiety depression insomnia pain digestive disorders and infertility.

Ms. Dabu is associated with the National Certification Commission on Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine and Acupuncture Society of Virginia. She is the Treasurer of the Council of United Phillipino Organizations of Tidewater and United Ilocano Association of Tidewater.Her mentors are Partha Banerjee, MD, and Shan Liang, DOM. On a more personal note, Dr. Dabu is happily married.

For more information about Dr. Dabu and her services, please visit her website at www.lotusacupunctureclinic.com.

Jerry P. George, MD, FAAD, FACEP

Pediatric Emergency

Children’s Medical Center Plano and Medical City Dallas

Dallas, TX

Dallas, TX—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Jerry P. George, MD, FAAD, FACEP, is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Life Member for his contributions to the Medical Field.

Dr. George began his educational pursuits at Johns Hopkins University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering in 2007 and then received a Master of Science of Engineering (MSE) degree in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering in 2008. The doctor followed

these accomplishments at St. George’s University where he graduated with his Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree in 2012. Dr. George completed a residency at SUNY Downstate Medical Center and remained there until 2015. He capped his educational goals with a Fellowship in Pediatric Emergency Medicine from 2015 to 2018 and continued to work as a Pediatric Emergency Physician at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center.

Board-certified in Pediatrics and Pediatric Emergency Medicine by the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP), Dr. George is a Pediatric Emergency Physician and treats patients from infancy through 18-years old with comprehensive healthcare for critical issues. He notes that the ABP certifies Pediatricians who meet specific criteria of high-quality patient care and engage with continuing education. The doctor currently works in the Emergency Room at Children’s Medical Center Plano and Medical City Dallas.

Highly sought after for his expertise in pediatrics, Dr. George currently works as a Pediatric Emergency Medicine Physician

Linda Laughlin

Nurse Practitioner

VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System

Lascassas, TN

Lascassas, TN— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Linda Laughlin is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Healthcare Professional for her contributions to the Nurse Practitioner Field.

Dr. Laughlin pursued higher education at Middle Tennessee State University where she earned an Associate Degree in Nursing in 1982. She capped her scholarship at The University of Alabama in Huntsville, from which she earned a bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree. She also has certification

as an Adult Nurse Practitioner at the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

Claiming the highlight of her career is her continued success in the healthcare field for more than 26 years, Dr. Laughlin is the director of occupational health and a nurse practitioner with the VA Tennessee Valley Healthcare System where she manages more than 500 employees, as well as charged with overseeing COVID-19 care; flu campaign management; and vaccine administration. For more than five years, the doctor served as a nurse practitioner in the U.S. Army and advanced to the rank of a lieutenant.

Aside from her professional healthcare pursuits, Dr. Laughlin has been an actress since 2014; authored “Raising Influence Acceptance in Long-Term Care”; and established a non-profit community theater company. The doctor credits the

where he serves patients in the Dallas metro area. He has had this role since 2012 and serves children and young adults who have received severe injuries or illnesses and require immediate care. The doctor has many responsibilities in this position, including examining, diagnosing, and treating his young patients. Passionate about helping children, he also serves patients at the Children’s Medical Center Plano, the Dallas area’s first full-service free-standing children’s hospital, offering pediatric care for injuries, diseases, and general healthcare services.

A testament to his excellence in care, Dr. George is a Fellow of the American College of Emergency Physicians and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. He is dedicated to keeping abreast of advancements in his field and is a recognized with a profile feature by Pro News Report for his work in the pediatric field. He would like to dedicate this honor to his parents, O.P. George and Sicily George, and his mentor, Jeff Beiler, MD.

For more information, visit https://www. envisionphysicianservices.com/.

unwavering support of her family as well as her upfront and straightforward approach to her practice for her success and hopes to continue thriving in the field of nursing while contributing to her community and considering teaching at a local university upon her retirement.

Joe Littlejohn Jr., MD Founder/Owner

Linkbox Solutions LLC

Mechanicsburg, PA

Mechanicsburg, PA—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Joe Littlejohn, Jr. is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Life Achiever for his contributions to the field of Medical Technology.

Dr. Littlejohn Jr. earned a medical degree from the University of Connecticut School of Medicine in 1995. He completed an internship in general surgery at the same establishment in 1997 and finished a residency in general surgery at the University of Connecticut Health Center in 1997. He completed a residency in urology at Howard University Hospital (District of Columbia) in 2001 and a fellowship in neuro-urology and voiding dysfunction at New York-Presbyterian Hospital in 2002.

Dr. Littlejohn, Jr. specializes in diseases of the urinary tract and the male reproductive system. His areas of expertise include benign prostatic hypertrophy, general urology, neuromodulation therapies, robotic (da Vinci) surgery, urodynamics, bladder prolapse surgery, neurogenic bladder dysfunction, prostate cancer, ureteral stones, and voiding dysfunction.

Dr. Littlejohn, Jr. founded LinkBox Solutions LLC, a health technology

company that seeks to incorporate the latest technological advances into the field of medicine, when he became determined to create a solution to help doctors more efficiently see their patients while also increasing quality of care. More specifically LinkBox Solutions LLC offers a mobile software system that removes barriers between the physician and their patients while automating the HPI documentation process.

The doctor explained that this userfriendly technology allows a practice to receive detailed information about their patients before their appointment making patient care easier and faster than ever before. The program works as a mobile scribe ensuring doctors have access to all necessary data the moment they need it. LinkBox generates question sets that are sent to the patients by the scheduling staff the moment their appointment is made (via email to register at their HIPAA/ HITECH compliant cyber-secure site). That way when they come in for their appointment, all necessary information and relevant concerns are listed in one easily accessible location.

According to Dr. Littlejohn, Jr., LinkBox streamlines daily operations and helps doctors feel more on top of their work while working in conjunction with EMR systems. With time-saving features, unparalleled privacy settings, and an affordable cost, the program strives to increase the quality of patient care and decrease physician burnout. He notes that at its core, it delivers more satisfied patients as it offers doctors more time with their family proving that happier doctor’s equal happier patients.

Dr. Littlejohn, Jr. serves as an Assistant Professor of Surgery within the Department of Urology at Penn State

Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. He is Vice Chair of DEI within the Department of Urology at Penn State Health Technology and is Director of Telehealth within the Department of Urology at Penn State Health. The doctor offers his services at Penn State Health Surgery Specialties (Hershey Pennsylvania) & Penn State Health Medical Group Camp Hill Specialties.

Dr. Littlejohn Jr. is an active member of the National Medical Association; the American Urological Association; the Mid-Atlantic Section of the American Urological Association; and the Society of Urodynamics Female Pelvic Medicine & Urogenital Reconstruction. He is also a Diplomate of the American Board of Urology. He also speaks English and Spanish.

According to the doctor, urology is the branch of medicine that focuses on surgical and medical diseases of the male and female urinary-tract system and the male reproductive organs. Urologists specialize in diseases of the urinary tract and the male reproductive system. Patients may be referred to a urologist if their physician suspects they may need treatment for a condition relating to the bladder prostate urethra ureters kidneys and adrenal glands.

Dr. Littlejohn Jr. attributes his success to his belief in God and his Christian Faith and is upfront and honest regarding health-related matters. He would like to dedicate this honor to his mentor, Dr. Aaron G. Jackson, and In Memoriam of Master James A. Wilson and Dr. Steven Kaplan, as well as his grandfather, Quincy R. Littlejohn, in loving memory, and thanks him for his love and support.

Jorge A. Pino, MD, FACP, FACE Endocrinologist

Grandview Medical Center

Birmingham, AL

Birmingham, AL— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Jorge A. Pino is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the Medical Field.

Dr. Pino pursued an education in the healthcare field at the Universidad del

Universidad del Valle in Cali, Columbia where he earned a Medical degree. He then attended the University Hospital in Cali and completed an internal medicine residency. The doctor practiced for 3 years prior to coming to the U.S. where he attended St. Joseph’s Hospital in Wichita, Kansas and completed an internship in internal medicine at Tulane University, School of Medicine. The doctor also completed a fellowship in endocrinology, diabetes, and metabolism at the University of Alabama, Birmingham, where he stayed on as an assistant professor before entering private practice. The doctor is a board- certified endocrinologist.

Known for his excellence, Dr. Pino sees patients who are struggling with diabetes and educates them on their conditions to ensure a healthy lifestyle. He also works with patients with any endocrine issue

including pituitary, thyroid, and adrenal conditions. The doctor practices at Grandview Medical Group.

In his spare time, Dr. Pino enjoys sports, traveling, and reading. He has been married to Mariela Pino for 53 years and they have 3 sons and 3 grandchildren.

He would like to dedicate this honor to the memory of his mentor, Eduardo Gaitan, MD.

Josel A.A. Doyle, MD, FAAP

Neonatologist

Mednax

Topeka, KS

Topeka, KS—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Josel Doyle is acknowledged as a Distinguished Healthcare Professional for her contributions to the field of Neonatology.

Dr. Doyle began her educational journey at St. Georges University School of Medicine where she earned an undergraduate and medical degrees. She completed a residency in pediatrics and a fellowship in neonatal-perinatal medicine at Winthrop University Hospital which also included a term as Chief Resident at Stony Brook University Hospital.

Board-certified in neonatal-perinatal medicine and pediatrics, Dr. Doyle works at Pediatrix Neonatology of Topeka. The

doctor notes that Pediatrix Neonatology of Topeka has been caring for premature and critically ill newborns since 1997. They began providing services in the St. Francis Health Level II NICU in Topeka in 2013 and also offer newborn hearing services in several area hospitals. Supported by a skilled multidisciplinary team, Dr. Doyle notes that her extraordinary team is comprised of board-certified neonatologists and certified neonatal nurse practitioners (NNPs).

Dr. Doyle asserts that neonatology is a subspecialty of pediatrics that consists of the medical care of newborn infants, especially ill or premature newborns. It is a hospital-based specialty and is usually practiced in neonatal intensive care units. Neonatologists generally diagnose and treat newborns with conditions such as breathing disorders, infections, and birth defects as well as coordinating care and medically managing newborns born prematurely, critically ill, or in need of surgery.

Passionate about her profession, Dr. Doyle’s clinical interests include neonatal nutrition; developmental outcomes; and respiratory distress syndrome, which are all essential components of the care of premature and critically ill infants. She is dedicated to providing

the latest advancements in her field and is a member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics; the Kansas Perinatal Collaborative on Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS); and Stormont Vail Hospitals NAS task force where she helps to develop policies and practices aimed at improving the care of infants affected by substance use disorders.

In addition to her hospital-based responsibilities, Dr. Doyle leads Stormont’s Family-Centered Care Committee and serves on the NICU Developmental and Relationship Committee demonstrating her dedication to ensuring that her patients receive comprehensive and compassionate care.

Aside from her professional pursuits, Dr. Doyle credits her parents and her faith in God for instilling in her a strong sense of purpose and the values of hard work, compassion, and dedication. She notes that her love for the profession has also been a driving force in her success. She is deeply committed to providing the best possible care to her patients and is constantly seeking new ways to improve outcomes and enhance the patient experience.

Joseph P. Calderone Jr., MD, FACS Ophthalmologist

Better Vision New Jersey

Cranford, NJ

Cranford, NJ— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Joseph P. Calderone is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Life Member for his contributions to the field of Ophthalmology.

Dr. Calderone pursued higher education at the College of the Holy Cross where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Chemistry. He then attended Rutgers New Jersey Medical School where he received a medical degree in 1982 and attended Albany Medical Center completing an internship in 1983. He finished a residency in ophthalmology at New York Medical College in 1987.

Board-certified in ophthalmology by the American Board of Ophthalmology (ABO),

Dr. Calderone notes that the ABO is an independent non-profit organization responsible for certifying ophthalmologists in the United States of America. He is currently the Medical and Surgical Director of Better Vision New Jersey (formerly called Cranford Ophthalmology) where he has served since 1987. He specializes in premium intraocular lenses and laser cataract surgery (certified in both Catalys & LenSx femtosecond cataract laser systems); and is a foremost expert in the treatment of dry eye.

Considered an expert in cataracts and micro-incisional glaucoma, the doctor explained that Better Vision New Jersey is a dynamic, state-of-the-art ophthalmic practice that provides patients with the highest quality of eye care possible and is housed in a building named after Dr. Calderone’s father. The practice is fully equipped with the latest ophthalmological advancements and was the first office in New Jersey to offer the revolutionary Lipiflow Thermal Pulsation System. The doctor notes that physicians at Better Vision New Jersey are pioneering leaders in ophthalmology and are proud to provide the best possible eye care for patients of all ages. They are always excited to expand their family and strive to build strong lasting relationships with

each and every one of their patients. The doctor asserts that their mission is to provide world-class eye care in a patientfriendly, comfortable environment.

Aside from his professional practice, Dr. Calderone is a retired Clinical Instructor at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School; Clinical Assistant Professor at Seton Hall University School of Graduate Medical Education; Medical Director of the Specialized Surgical Center of Central New Jersey (formerly the Somerset Eye Institute) where he has been a member of; an attending physician at Overlook Hospital and a retired attending physician at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Rahway where he had been a former chairman of ophthalmology; and on the adjunct staff at Trinitas Hospital. Always seeking the latest advancements in his field, the doctor is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons; a Fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology; as well as a member of both the New Jersey Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery.

He would like to dedicate this honor in loving memory of his father, Joseph P. Calderone, and thanks his wife Heidi and daughters.

Kristi Bogan, MD

Pediatric Interventional Radiologist

Akron Children’s Hospital

Akron, OH

Akron, OH — Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Kristi Bogan, MD, is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions to the Pediatric Interventional Radiologist Field.

Dr. Bogan earned a medical degree at Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara where she notes that she enjoyed the

culture and learned the language for two and a half years, eventually graduating early from Ross University. She then completed a 5-year residency in radiology at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Bridgeport, CT., which is affiliated with the Frank H. Netter, MD School of Medicine at Quinnipiac University. She completed an additional two years of specialized training in Pediatric Diagnostic Radiology and Pediatric Interventional Radiology at the University of Texas Southwestern when she moved back to her hometown of Dallas, TX.

Dr. Bogan specializes in vascular anomalies and is known as a caring and compassionate pediatric interventional radiologist. She works at Akron Children’s Hospital in Akron, OH and has been practicing pediatric interventional and diagnostic radiology for more than 6 years, with the past two years dedicated at Akron Children’s Hospital.

According to Dr. Bogan, she deals with a wide array of childhood conditions by providing minimally invasive solutions for children that offer faster recovery times with less pain and scarring risk than traditional surgeries. She routinely performs biopsies; joint injections; and angiography, and also treats vascular malformation. Dr. Bogan asserts that she enjoys reflecting on the patients she was able to help each day, and that in her view, being an effective healer and enjoying happiness from a job well done is her goal.

Dr. Bogan lives in Akron, OH with her two corgis, Asscher and Sophie, where she likes to relax by cooking and painting. In her spare time, she enjoys pursuing an entrepreneurial part-time career in adult aesthetics in Stow, OH, which allows her to combine her procedural skills with her creative side.

Julian Lender, DMD Dentist and Owner A+ Dentistry Brookline, MA

Brookline, MA—Prominently displayed in The Inner Circle, Julian Lender is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Healthcare Provider for his contributions to the field of Dentistry.

Dr. Lender graduated with his first dental degree in Moscow, Russia and worked as a dentist for 11 years before arriving in Boston. He then went on to earn his Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry degree from the Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine in 1994, after which he performed training at the world-famous Las Vegas Institute of Cosmetic Dentistry.

Dr. Lender specializes in general and cosmetic dentistry and is owner of A+

Dentistry in Brookline, Massachusetts; All Seacoast Dental Associates in Gloucester; and Maplewood Dental Associates in Malden.

Always seeking continuing education in cutting-edge dental technologies and modern techniques has made Dr. Lender is an award-winning cosmetic and esthetic dentist who is always seeking education in cutting-edge dental technologies and modern techniques. His mother, father, and younger sister are all dental professionals, and he notes that excellence runs in the family. The doctor says his unique skills and understanding of patient needs have made him the doctor of choice for many of greater Boston’s more prominent cosmetic cases. His skills in restoring implants have made his offices a popular destination for people desperately needing a new and beautiful smile. Furthermore, he is certified in Invisalign (clear braces), Waterlase (laser dentistry) and conscious sedation.

Routinely completing 50-60 hours of continuing education per every two-year licensing cycle Dr. Lender completes 50-60 hours of continuing education every two-year cycle and is also a proud member of the following organizations: Las Vegas Institute of a Neuromuscular and Cosmetic Dentistry; the Academy

of General Dentistry’; the Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry; the American Dental Association the Massachusetts Dental Society; and National Registers Who’s Who in Executives and Professionals.

According to Dr. Lender, dentistry, also known as Dental and Oral Medicine, is a branch of medicine that consists of the study, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of diseases, disorders and conditions of the oral cavity. Dentists diagnose and treat dental issues and help patients develop better oral hygiene regimens. They clean teeth, correct bite issues, perform surgeries and extractions and perform other duties to ensure that the teeth and mouth are healthy.

Dr. Lender, has been named one of America’s Top Dentists from 2009-2015. He is also an avid enthusiast, charitable youth sports contributor, and dedicated community servant.

Dr. Lender would like to thank his family for their support and dedicate this honor in loving memory of his parents, Leonid Lenderman and Dina Manezich, DMD. Dr. Lender is the proud father of two beautiful children and makes his home in Newton.

For more information, please visit his website at www.aplusdentist.com.

Justin C. Ponquinette, DDS

Surgeon

Atlantic Oral Surgery & Dental Implant Center

Tinton Falls, NJ

Tinton Falls, NJ—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Justin C. Ponquinette is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Healthcare Professional for his contributions to the Field of Dentoalveolar Surgery.

Dr. Ponquinette earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 2000 from Hampton

University. In 2004, he earned a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry at the University of Pennsylvania and graduated from the American College of Integrative Medicine and Dentistry with a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree in 2016. Dr. Ponquinette completed his residency at the Montefiore Medical Center in 2008 and became board certified in 2010.

Dr. Ponquinette has worked as a surgeon at the Atlantic Oral Surgery and Dental Implant Center in Tinton Falls, New Jersey since 2016. He specializes in dental surgery, extractions, implants, and bone grafting procedures. Prior to this position, he was an oral surgeon with Eastern Dental of New Jersey from 2009 to 2014. Dr. Ponquinette asserts that he possesses professional expertise in dentoalveolar surgery, regeneration of hard tissues, surgical extraction, and implant placement.

Dr. Ponquinette is affiliated with the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons and is a member of the New Jersey Society of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the American Dental Society of Anesthesiology, the New Jersey Board of Anesthesia, the American Dental Association and the New Jersey Dental Association. Dr. Ponquinette considers maintaining a high level of performance in his current job and improving the lives of his patients to be the highlight of his career.

Dr. Ponquinette attributes his success to not fearing change and continuing to evolve as a practitioner. In the coming years, he hopes to enhance his skills, manage others perioperatively, and venture into biologic dentistry. In his spare time, Dr. Ponquinette enjoys playing football, playing basketball and spending time with his family.

Kari Blankenship, DDS

Dentist and Owner

Dental Renaissance Plano, TX

Plano, TX— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Kari Blankenship is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions to the Field of Dentistry.

Dr. Blankship began her educational journey pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and a Bachelor of Arts in Honors Philosophy from Hunter College in New York City. She continued her educational journey and earned a Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Texas Health Sciences Center in San Antonio. Following this accomplishment, the doctor completed post-doctoral residency in general dentistry at the Michael DeBakey Veterans Administration Hospital with an emphasis on oral surgery and periodontics. She capped her scholarship and training with rotations at the MD Anderson Cancer Center and gained experience in meeting the needs of medically compromised patients.

Dr. Blankenship cites her brother, Ryan Knight, as an influential mentor during her career.

Lawrence R. Hamner III, MD

Cardiothoracic Surgeon and Owner

Lawrence R. Hamner III, MD, PA San Antonio, TX

San Antonio, TX— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Lawrence R. Hamner is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Life Member for his contributions to the field of Cardiothoracic Surgery.

Dr. Hamner began his academic journey at Southern Methodist University where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Math. He then attended the University of Texas Southwest Medical School in Dallas where he earned a Medical Degree. The doctor completed two consecutive cardiothoracic and vascular surgery internships; a general surgical residency at Emory

A licensed and board-certified dentist, Dr. Blankenship has practiced in the field for more than 13 years and established Dental Renaissance, a private practice, in Plano in 2019. She notes that she was drawn to the field of dentistry after earning her Bachelor of Science degree because of its unique combination of art science and biology.

Dr. Blankenship believes that continued education translates to a higher standard of care for her patients and results in the best possible outcomes. To provide the latest state-of-the art advancements, Dr. Blankenship participates in continuing education on a regular basis in the areas of implant dentistry, oral surgery, and cosmetic dentistry. She also studied with Nobel Biocare and the prestigious Pikos Institute.

A testament to her professional drive, Dr. Blankenship is a member of the American Academy of Facial Esthetics; a Board member of the American Academy of Clear Aligners; and the American Academy of General Dentistry.

According to Dr. Blankenship, dentistry, also known as Dental and Oral Medicine, is a branch of medicine that consists of the study diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, disorders, and conditions of the oral cavity. Dentists

diagnose and treat problems with patient’s teeth, gums, and related parts of the mouth. They provide advice and instruction on taking care of the teeth and gums and on diet choices that affect oral health. She asserts that she has never grown tired of helping people bring out the best that their smiles have to offer.

Aside from her professional pursuits, Dr. Blankenship enjoys spending quality time with her family; husband, Matthew, and her two dogs: a Corgi named Ellie and a Chihuahua named Biscuits, both of which she loves very much. The doctor describes herself as an adventurous culinary explorer and never passes up the opportunity to try new restaurants, cuisines, and recipes. An avid reader, Dr. Blankenship particularly enjoys true crime stories.

The doctor would like to dedicate this honor to her colleague and mentor, David Galler, DDS. For more information about Dr. Blankenship’s practice, please visit the website: www.planodentist.com.

University hospitals; and a fellowship in cardiac and thoracic surgery completed at the Texas Heart Institute. Based in San Antonio, Texas, the doctor serves a local population in private practice, as well as area hospitals.

Board certified in cardiac and thoracic surgery by the American Board of Thoracic Surgery (ABTS), Dr. Hamner is also a member of numerous professional organizations including the Cardiothoracic Surgery Network; the International Society for Minimally Invasive Cardiothoracic Surgery; the Southern Thoracic Surgical Association; and The Society of Thoracic Surgeons. He explained that thoracic surgery is the field of medicine involved in surgically treating organs inside the thorax. Cardiothoracic surgeons are medical doctors who specialize in surgical procedures inside

the thorax, which may involve the heart, lungs, esophagus and other organs in the chest. They also diagnose and treat diseases of these organs.

Dedicated to providing the latest advancements in his field, the doctor is a member of the Society of Thoracic Surgeons; Texas Medical Association; Fellow of the American College of Surgeons; and American Board of Thoracic Surgery. He notes that his mentor is Denton Cooley, MD.

In addition to his professional service, the doctor enjoys supporting the community through the First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio. Aside from his professional pursuits, Dr. Hamner is an avid golfer, hunter, and snow skier.

Katherine A. Daly

Child Psychiatrist

Fairview Health Services Wayzata, MN

Wayzata, MN— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Katherine A. Daly, MD, is acknowledged as a Distinguished Medical Professional for her work in the Pediatrics and Psychiatry Fields.

Dr. Daly began her academic journey at the University of Minnesota Medical School where she earned a Medical Doctor (M.D.) degree in 1992. She then completed an internship in 1993 with Loyola Medicine MacNeal Hospital and finished residencies in pediatrics in 1996 and psychiatry in 1998. The doctor capped her scholarship with a fellowship training in child and adolescent psychiatry in 2000 at the University of Minnesota Medical School.

Dr. Daly holds certifications in pediatrics from the American Board of Pediatrics; psychiatry from the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology; and child and adolescent psychiatry from the American

Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Licensed to practice medicine in the state of Minnesota, Dr. Daly noted that she is a child psychiatrist at Fairview Health Services, where she has been in practice for 11 years. According to the doctor Fairview is “the health service that heals from the heart” and proudly serves as Minnesota’s choice for healthcare. Offering a complete network of healthcare services, Dr. Daly asserts that Fairview is an industry-leading, award-winning nonprofit organization. It touts a broad network designed to be ready for each patient’s needs while delivering compassionate quality care.

Dedicated to providing the latest advancements in her field, Dr. Daly is affiliated with the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry; the American Medical Association; and the American Psychiatric Association. She co-authored “Seizure Disorder is in the Differential Diagnosis of Panic Disorder” in 2000. Dr. Daly said that she enjoys working with children and is also a boardcertified pediatrician. She feels the key to her success have been stubbornness and

persistence and hopes to inspire other young women to go for their dreams.

Attributing her success to hard work, Dr. Daly asserts that she has experienced much during her career and has kept a lesson from each event. She was initially inspired to enter her profession because of her love for helping people. When she was a gynecologist and obstetrician at Loyola, she discovered that she was really interested in maternalfetal bonding. Dr. Daly also found that psychiatry allowed her to investigate that more than she was able to do in pediatrics, and so she decided to go into that discipline.

Adding to her scholarship, Dr. Daly would like to pursue child-parent interaction in the future. She also hopes to work with family bonding and interactions because she thinks that is important and would love to continue to look at how pharmacological interventions can assist with family interactions and bonding.

Aside from her professional pursuits, Dr. Daly enjoys being outdoors and water activities.

For more information, visit www.fairview.org.

Khaled A. Almansoori, MD

Orthopedic Surgeon

Advanced Orthopedic & Spine Care

Hinsdale, IL

Hinsdale, IL— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Khaled A. Almansoori is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Healthcare Professional for his contributions to the field of Orthopedic Surgery.

Dr. Almansoori began his academic journey at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland in 2006 where he earned a Bachelor of Medicine. He then attended the University of Alberta in Canada where

he received a Bachelor of Surgery degree and completed a residency in orthopedic surgery. He finished a fellowship in trauma & reconstructive surgery at McMaster University in 2014 followed by two additional fellowships in adult combined spine surgery at the University of Calgary in 2015 and the George Washington University Medical in 2016.

Affiliated with Advanced Orthopedic & Spine Care, Dr. Almansoori has offices in Tinley Park and Oak Lawn, Illinois. He offers a tailored range of modern options to care for both adult and pediatric spinal and skeletal deformities including endoscopic and microtube minimally invasive spine surgery; spine and limb orthotic bracing; and revision fracture and non-union care.

Board certified in orthopedic surgery and sports medicine by the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery (ABOS), Dr. Almansoori notes that the ABOS is an organization with the goal of establishing educational and professional standards for orthopedic residents and surgeons as

well as evaluating the qualifications and competence of orthopedic surgeons.

A testmanent to his professionalism abilities, Dr. Almansoori is a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (FAAOS) and a Fellow of the North American Spine Society (FNASS). Serving a local area, he is affiliated with several hospitals and surgical centers including Advocate Christ Medical Center Palos Community Hospital; South Suburban Hospital; and Silver Cross Hospital.

Aside from his professional pursuits, Dr. Almansoori is dedicated to teaching medical education; doing volunteer work; and clinical research. With a Master’s degree in Health Science Education, he serves as the Educational Development Director of the Canadian Orthopedic Associations Basic Science Course for resident-trainees. He also mentors medical students and residents in orthopedic care and participates as a clinical instructor among several educational programs.

Kulwant K. Buttar, MD Psychiatrist Buffalo Psychiatric Center Williamsville, NY

From New York State, Doctor Kulwant K. Buttar is being recognized by Continental Who’s Who as a Pinnacle Life Member for her work in the psychiatric field.

Dr. Buttar received her medical degree (MBBS) from Patiala Medical College in Punjab, India. After migrating to West, Doctor completed an internship at General Hospitals affiliated with the University of Ottawa, Canada. Subsequently, she started her training in Pediatric Residency at McMasters Medical Center in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Instead of working in Pediatrics, her interest grew more towards acute medical care treatment of people, and she started her work in an emergency department of Hamilton Health Sciences hospitals in Hamilton, ON., Canada.

Dr. Buttar was a Clinical Teaching Unit Director in department of Emergency Medicine for 7 years at Chidoke McMaster University at Hamilton ON Canada . In addition, she served as an examiner MCCQE 11 for the Medical Council at McMaster University and she was involved in Medical students selection and an admission program at McMaster University ON Canada.

After working in Acute care medicine for 15 years, Dr. Buttar’s interest grew more towards Psychiatry. She started and finished her Residency with Trauma Fellowship in Psychiatry from university of Toronto ON Canada. Dr. Buttar has been notably recognized for developing

a protocol for interns and residents for detecting an abuse in women and children. Dr. Buttar is Certified in American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN), ABPN is a corporation dedicated to serving the professions of psychiatry and neurology.

Initially, Dr. Kulwant Buttar received her Lifetime Fellow of American Psychiatric Association and associated with AMA.

APA Board of Trustees has elected Dr. Kulwant Buttar to give her a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, effective January 1, 2023

Dr. Buttar is considered very efficient in interviews, evaluation, and treatment of Psychiatric illnesses. She shows her expertise to make a proper diagnosis in different areas of Psychiatric illnesses including various Psychotic illnesses, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, PTSD, OCD and other associated Psychiatric illnesses in adults and teenagers. She has a major interest in investigation and treatment in trauma related to sexual abuse. She has the ability to understand people and help them to understand themselves. Dr. Buttar has worked in the Medical/Psychiatric field for more than 35 years.

Dr. Buttar worked in Canada and moved to California. In Department of State Hospital at Atascadero, she sustained a Superior Achievement Award. After she moved to NY State, she started to work at Buffalo Psychiatric Center in New York State. Dr. Buttar is an Inpatient Director at Buffalo Psychiatric center. She has been appointed as an Clinical Assistant Professor in Department of Psychiatry, Jacob School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University of Buffalo NY (SUNY).

While working in Buffalo Psychiatric Center mission is to serve individuals with treatment resistant, serious, and chronic mental illnesses in a way to empowers them to forward to be a part of society.

BPC operates in collaboration with the local mental health systems of Erie, Niagara, Chautauqua, and Cattaraugus counties. Services include creating opportunities for personal growth, recovery; fostering hope and respect; providing safe environments; promoting excellence; and encouraging partnerships among recipients’ families and providers.

Dr. Buttar has had an affiliated with BryLin Hospital and Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center. According to Dr. Buttar, psychiatry is the medical specialty devoted to the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of mental disorders. There are various maladaptive behaviors needs attention of experts to help individuals so that they can enjoy daily life. As a Psychiatrist, Dr. Buttar takes a pride to treat individuals, families and children to correct their emotional and behavioral disorders. She speaks publicly on mental illness to community and religious groups locally. She also volunteers her time assisting the homeless.

Dr. Kulwant Buttar would like to dedicate this honor in loving memory of her father, Shardha Singh Buttar, Mother Jaswant K Buttar. Dr. Buttar has been married to Mr. Dharmjit S Bhullar and they have 2 children.

Lagina R. Scott, MD Family Physician

San Ysidro Health/ Care View Clinic

San Diego, CA

San Diego, CA—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Lagina R. Scott, MD, is acknowledged as a Distinguished Healthcare Professional for her contributions as a Family Physician.

Dr. Scott pursued a medical degree from the Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science and completed an internship and residency in family medicine at the Family Health Centers

of San Diego. Board-certified in family medicine through the American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM), the doctor notes that ABFM is a non-profit independent medical association of American physicians who practice family medicine and its sub-specialties.

Dr. Scott has served more than three years as a family physician with San Ysidro Health/Care View Clinic and also works on staff at Sharp Memorial Hospital. Dr. Scott asserts that San Ysidro Health, formerly San Ysidro Health Center, is a non-profit organization committed to providing high quality compassionate, accessible, and affordable health care services for the entire family. Its mission is to improve the health and well-being of the communities it serves with access for all. According to Dr. Scott, family medicine is a medical specialty devoted to comprehensive health care for people of all ages. The specialist is called a family physician or family doctor and is often the first person a patient sees when seeking healthcare services.

They examine and treat patients with a wide range of conditions and refer those with serious ailments to a specialist or appropriate facility.

Inspired to enter the medical field at the age of nine, Dr. Scott’s witnessed her grandmother battle diabetes while not trusting healthcare professionals. She wanted to work in healthcare in underserved communities and chose to work with Care View Clinic because of their mission to help that population. Appointed to the role after just one year, the doctor is one of the youngest directors in the clinic’s history after being employed for a year. In the near future, she plans to start a medi-spa in addition to her work.

Aside from her professional pursuits, the doctor enjoys spending time with family and traveling. She also participates in monthly health fairs in her community and volunteers her time at the local high school doing sports physicals. For more information, visit www.syhc.org

Lauren T. Roles, MD

Internist

Vancouver Clinic

Vancouver, WA

Vancouver, WA— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Lauren Roles is acknowledged as a Distinguished Healthcare Provider for her contributions to the Internal Medicine Field.

Dr. Roles began her academic journey at the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, Washington where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology. She received a medical degree from the University of Colorado School of Medicine in Denver and completed a residency in internal medicine at Eisenhower Medical Center in Rancho Mirage California. The doctor

capped her scholarship by finishing a fellowship in geriatric medicine at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland.

Board-certified as an internist, Dr. Roles currently works at Vancouver Clinic in Vancouver Washington. She is specially trained to help older adults with complicated health problems and focuses on enabling people to identify and reach their health goals so that they can do everything they want to do. Known for her compassion and thoroughness, Dr. Roles enjoys making tailored plans for each individual, considering their unique conditions, concerns, and hopes. She asserts that the key to practicing medicine well is to listen to the needs of patients.

The second board-certified specialty that Dr. Roles has achieved is in geriatric medicine given by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM). She notes that the ABIM is a physician-led non-profit independent evaluation organization driven by doctors who want to achieve higher standards for better care in a rapidly changing world. The doctor explained that internal medicine is the medical specialty dealing with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of adult diseases. Physicians

specializing in internal medicine are called internists and manage and prevent common and complex diseases by providing comprehensive care and promoting overall well-being.

Dedicated to providing the latest advancements in her dual posts, Dr. Roles is associated with the American College of Physicians; The American Geriatric Society; and the Oregon Geriatric Society. Aside from her professional pursuits, Dr. Roles enjoys reading a good science fiction or fantasy novel and spending time with her golden doodle, Samwise, named after The Lord of the Rings character, and her cat, Na’Vi, who is named for the blue people from Avatar. Hoping to one day participate in a real dig, Dr. Roles is also fascinated by evolutionary biology and is building her own tiny collection of dinosaur fossils.

The doctor would like to thank her parents, Royal and Diane Roles, for all of their support and dedicates this honor to her mentor and high school biology teacher, Mr. Deopke.

For more information, please visit her website at www.tvc.org.

Laura Barnes, DVM, DACVO Veterinary Ophthalmologist

Central Texas Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Hospital Austin, TX

Austin, TX— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Laura Barnes is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Life Member for her contributions to the Medical Field.

Dr. Barnes earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science with a minor in Chemistry from California Polytechnic State University in 2001. She completed a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Ross University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2005 and completed a general rotating internship in small animal medicine and surgery at the University of Saskatchewan Western College of Veterinary Medicine. She finished an internship in ophthalmology and a

residency in comparative veterinary ophthalmology at the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Barnes is a board-certified member of the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmology and has been a veterinarian for nearly two decades. Dr. Barnes asserted that she felt a calling to veterinary healthcare, and knew that’s where she belonged.

Dr. Barnes works at Central Texas Veterinary Specialty & Emergency Hospital in Austin Texas and joined their practice in 2010. In September 2023 she will join a practice in Lakewood CO known as Evolution Veterinary Specialty and Emergency. She will continue to practice veterinary ophthalmology. According to the doctor, she enjoys the difficulties and challenges of cataract surgery as well as eyelid and corneal surgery. Dr. Barnes is certified to treat multiple ocular abnormalities in dogs and cats including trauma, corneal ulcers, corneal lacerations, corneal foreign bodies, glaucoma, removal of cataracts (cataract surgery with lens replacement), repair of corneal perforations, treatment of feline herpes virus, as well as eyelid and eyelash abnormalities. She works closely with other specialists (internal medicine, neurology, emergency and critical care

oncology, and surgery) in the hospital to provide the best care for patients and to make sure they have the best quality care possible. She notes that she enjoys helping her clients understand their animal’s ocular disease and treatment options.

Dr. Barnes is a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association and the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists. According to Dr. Barnes, ophthalmology is a branch of medicine and surgery which deals with the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. A veterinary ophthalmologist is a veterinarian who specializes exclusively in treating eye disorders in animals. Her areas of research include photodynamic therapy for the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma in horses.

According to Dr. Barnes, she is the highest educated person in her family. She is known for taking her time with the animals she treats, being very thorough, and explaining everything in detail to the pet owners.

In her spare time, Dr. Barnes enjoys riding her mountain or road bike, photography, cross-fit, building Legos, hiking, weightlifting, yoga, Pilates, and spending time with her dog named Molly and Kiwi.

Naseh Nawabi, MD

Doctor

Walking Urgent Care Inc.

Coral Springs, FL

Coral Springs, FL—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Naseh Nawabi is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Life Member for his contributions to the field of Urgent Care Medicine.

Dr. Nawabi pursued higher education at Loma Linda University for his premedical

courses and he graduated from Cal Polytechnic University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree. He then attended Ross University where he received a Medical Degree and completed his core clinicals at Bradford Royal Infirmary England. He did his residency in Cedars-Sinai in Los Angeles.

Recognized for his compassionate care and exceptional education and training, Dr. Nawabi MD is President and Leading Physician at Walking Urgent Care Inc. located at 10308 W Sample Road in Coral Springs. The doctor is a member of several professional affiliations, including the Florida Medical Association; the American Medical Association; and AUCA. Certified in Urgent Care, Dr. Nawabi has been awarded many accolades during his career, including the Covid Award and Best Doctor Awards. He is licensed in the state of Florida.

Dr. Nawabi would like to dedicate this honor to his mentors, in Cedars Sinai and in loving memory of his father, Dr. Nasir Nawabi, Md; and to his children, Zachary and Cameron Nawabi, and thanks them for their love and support.

Mark D. Plunkett, MD

Pediatric Cardiac Surgeon Children’s Hospital of Illinois Peoria, IL

Peoria, IL—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Mark Plunkett is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the field of Pediatric Cardiac Surgery.

Dr. Plunkett began his higher education journey at Duke University where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology. He then attended the University Of North Carolina and earned a Medical Doctor degree. He completed a residency in general and cardiothoracic surgery at Duke University, which is a nine-year

program, and a fellowship in pediatric and congenital heart surgery completed at UCLA Medical Center/ Mattel Children’s Hospital. The doctor is board certified by the ABTS in cardiothoracic surgery and congenital heart surgery.

A leader in the field, Dr. Mark Plunkett specializes in caring for fetuses, infants, children and adolescents with cardiovascular or cardiac abnormalities. He is experienced in both inpatient and outpatient settings and notes that the scope of conditions cared for by pediatric cardiac surgeons is large and includes congenital heart defects; heart muscle disorders; and congenital vascular malformations.

Highly sought out for his expertise, Dr. Plunkett performs open heart surgery on infants and young children to correct congenital heart defects. He explained that these conditions are diagnosed during pre-natal care and surgeries are typically performed in the first few weeks of life. As a pediatric cardiac surgeon, he has extensive knowledge and experience having performed over 5,000 of these procedures.

Matthew A. T. Clarke, MD, MBA

Occupational and Environmental Medicine

Private Practice

Forest Hills, NY

Forest Hills, NY— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Matthew A. T. Clarke, MD, MBA, is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Life Member for his contributions to the Occupational and Environmental Medicine Fields.

Dr. Clarke pursued higher education at Albany Medical College in 1996 where he earned a medical degree. He then attended the Jamaica Hospital Medical Center where he completed his residency in family medicine in 1999 and also finished a residency in preventive medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in 2008. Board certified in family medicine by the American Board of

Family Medicine (ABFM), Dr. Clarke notes that the ABFM is a non-profit independent medical association of American physicians who practice family medicine and its sub-specialties.

In the medical field since 1999, Dr. Clarke has worked in private practice in the Forest Hills section of Queens, NY since 2006. He notes that family medicine is a medical specialty devoted to comprehensive health care for people of all ages and the specialist is called a family physician or family doctor. A family physician is often the first person a patient sees when seeking healthcare services. They examine and treat patients with a wide range of conditions and refer those with serious ailments to a specialist or appropriate facility.

Dr. Clarke was inspired as a young child to enter the healthcare field when his father was ill. He primarily focuses on patients who are dealing with Workers’

The doctor has worked at the Children’s Hospital of Illinois for 9 years and has worked in the field for more than 37 years. Dedicated to keeping abreast of the latest state-of-the-art procedures and treatments, Dr. Plunkett is associated with AMA; Society of Thoracic Surgery; Congenital Heart Surgeons Society; American Association of Thoracic Surgeons; Southern Thoracic Surgical Association; and the American College of Surgeons.

Aside from his professional work, Dr. Plunkett is a member of the Board of Directors for CASA 10th District Circuit Court in Peoria; Board of Directors for Family House, which provides housing to families of patients that travel distance for the doctor’s services; American Heart Association; Board of Directors for Camp del Corazon for children with heart defects; and has participated in 10 mission trips to Honduras and Peru with Hearts with Hope.

For more information, visit www.childrenshospitalofillinois.org

Compensation and mentors them on how best to navigate dealing with illness and injuries that keep them from working. He feels his father has been a great influence on his success, always motivating him to achieve his goals.

Aside from his professional pursuits, the doctor greatly enjoys ministry at his church where he and his wife head the family ministry.

Marta C. Kolthoff, MD, MA, FACMG, FACOG

Obstetrician-Gynecologist

Allegheny Perinatal Associates

Pittsburg, PA

Pittsburg, PA– Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Marta Kolthoff, M.D, is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions to the field of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Dr. Kolthoff began her scholarship at Cornell University where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology, minoring in Medical Ethics. She then received a Medical Degree from the University of Buffalo, School of Medicine and completed an OBGYN residency; a fellowship in clinical genetics; and completed a Masters in Bio-Ethics at the University of Pittsburgh and affiliated hospitals.

Board-certified as an OBGYN, Dr. Kolthoff practices as an obstetrician-gynecologist who specializes in genetic issues related to pregnancy, particularly those affecting the fetus or the mother. She is well-versed in a range of diagnostic procedures, including chorionic villus sampling, amniocentesis, and fetal ultrasounds and is certified in peri-natal loss care.

A testament to her leadership acumen, Dr. Kolthoff is Director of Clinical Genetics at West Penn Hospital and plays a crucial role in helping families understand and manage genetic risks during pregnancy. She has a particular interest in perinatal palliative care, perinatal loss, and bereavement and serves as the Director of the Olivia’s Angels Perinatal Palliative Care Program at Allegheny Health Network. The doctor notes that she is dedicated to providing compassionate care and support to families who are dealing with difficult pregnancies and fetal diagnoses. In addition to certification in obstetrics and gynecology by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG), Dr. Kolthoff is board-certified in medical genetics and genomics by the American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ABMGG). The doctor notes that the mission of the ABMGG is to serve the public and medical profession by establishing professional certification

standards and promoting lifelong learning as well as excellence in medical genetics and genomics and the ABOG is a nonprofit organization that provides board certification for practicing obstetricians and gynecologists in the United States and Canada.

A leader in her field, Dr. Kolthoff is a Fellow of the American College of Medical Genetics (FACMG) and a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (FACOG). She notes that obstetrics and gynecology (OB-GYN) are the medical specialty that encompasses the two subspecialties of obstetrics, covering pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, and gynecology, which covers the health of the female reproductive system, vagina, cervix, uterus, ovaries, and breasts.

Dr. Kolthoff credits her mentor, Marsha Klein-Patel, MD, to her attention to detail. Recognized in the community as a compassionate caregiver, Dr. Kolthoff was awarded the Pittsburgh Business Times Health Care Hero Award in 2018. Aside from her professional pursuits, the doctor is active with several peri-natal loss groups, such as Emma’s Footprints in Erie and Olivia’s Angels. The doctor would like to thank her parents, Charles and Christina Kolthoff, for all of their support.

Mary Ellen Luchetti, MD

Dermatologist Private Practice

Meridian, ID

Meridian, ID — Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Mary Ellen Luchetti, MD, is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Life Member for her contributions to the field of Dermatology.

Dr. Luchetti began her pursuit of higher education at King’s College where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, Summa Cum Laude. She then received a Doctorate of Medicine at Temple University School of Medicine and completed a Pediatric Internship and Residency at the University of Connecticut. The doctor capped her scholarship at the University of Buffalo where she completed a Dermatology Residency.

Board certified in dermatology since 1992 and recently certified in Integrative Dermatology, Dr. Luchetti is considered an expert in general adult and pediatric dermatology; surgical dermatology; and cosmetic dermatology. The doctor was chosen as Top Dermatologist in the US World Health and News and has worked

extensively nationwide in Dermatology. She also taught at the University of New Mexico in the Department of Dermatology and is a member of the American Academy of Dermatology.

Dr. Luchetti opened a new practice in December of 2022 at 3277 East Louise Dr., ST 360, Meridian, ID 83642. She asserts that she remains active and aware of developments in her field and is constantly learning new procedures and advancements in the field.

Aside from her professional pursuits, Dr. Luchetti enjoys spending time with family and friends, as well as the arts, music, travel, and fitness. She wishes to honor the loving memory of her parents and her mentor, Dr. Paul Rose, with this recognition.

Mary Zupanc, MD, FAAN, FAAP

Pediatric Neurologist and Pediatric Epilepsy Specialist

Clinical Professor, Department of Neurology

Division of Pediatric Neurology

University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health

Madison, WI

Madison, WI— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Mary Zupanc is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Healthcare Professional for her contributions to the field of Pediatric Neurology and Epileptology.

Dr. Zupanc pursued higher education at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1974 where she received her undergraduate degree in Zoology. She then completed a year of research in genetics in Los Angeles before entering the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and completing her medical degree in 1979. She completed pediatric residency training at the University of Washington and Harbor–UCLA Medical Center and, under the mentorship of Dr. Raymond Chun, finished pediatric neurology training at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She has since served in the epilepsy divisions at the Mayo Clinic; Columbia University; the Medical College of Wisconsin; and the University of CaliforniaIrvine, collaborating with colleagues to develop pediatric epilepsy programs. Dr. Zupanc has recently relocated to Madison, Wisconsin. She is currently a clinical professor at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, engaging in patient care, clinical research, and mentorship of medical students, residents, and fellows.

Dr. Zupanc explained that neurology is a branch of medicine dealing with disorders of the nervous system. A child neurologist, or pediatric neurologist, is a doctor who treats children who have problems with their nervous system. The problems in the nervous system can start in the brain, spine, nerves, or muscles and can lead to

problems such as seizures, headaches, or developmental delays.

An epileptologist, Dr. Zupanc is a neurologist who specializes in the treatment of epilepsy and has expertise in epilepsy and seizure disorders; anti-seizure medications; and special situations involving seizures, such as cases in which anti-seizure medications have failed. In these cases, a pediatric epileptologist may offer epilepsy surgery or neuromodulation to improve seizure control.

Board-certified in clinical neurophysiology, epilepsy, neurology with special competence in child neurology by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN), the doctor explained that the ABPN is a not-for-profit corporation dedicated to serving the professions of psychiatry and neurology. Dr. Zupanc is also board-certified in pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics, whose mission is to advance child health by certifying pediatricians who meet standards of excellence and are committed to continuous learning and improvement.

Through her leadership and vision, Dr. Zupanc has developed comprehensive epilepsy programs in several academic institutions across the country, including the University of Wisconsin, Mayo Clinic, Columbia University, Medical College of Wisconsin and the University of California— Irvine/CHOC Children’s Hospital of Orange County. During her tenure at CHOC, Dr. Zupanc grew the pediatric neurology division from four physician subspecialists to 16 subspecialists in areas such as epilepsy; sleep disturbances; movement disorders; concussion; stroke; and autism. This resulted in the reorganization and consolidation of the neurology division with the neurosurgery division, becoming the CHOC Neuroscience Institute. Dr. Zupanc served as the Co-Medical Director of the CHOC Neuroscience Institute until 2020.

Dr. Zupanc asserts that “one of the wonderful things about child neurology is that you often embark on a decades-long journey with families. You transform a child’s life and a family’s life. That’s what this profession is all about, and why it has always been more than a job for me. It’s a calling.”

Dedicated to providing the latest advancements to her patients and students, Dr. Zupanc is a member of the Epilepsy

Foundation of America; the American Medical Women’s Association; the American Medical Association; the American Academy of Pediatrics; the American Academy of Neurology; the Child Neurology Society; the American Epilepsy Society; Physicians for Social Responsibility; and International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War. She is also on the Board of Directors for the Child Neurology Foundation.

Recognized nationally and internationally for her scholarship and contributions to pediatric neurology, Dr. Zupanc has presented at numerous recognized lecture series and is a highly sought after speaker. She has published a plethora of articles in peer-reviewed journals, most notably Neurology and Pediatric Neurology, regarding pediatric epilepsy surgery and outcomes; the efficacy of felbamate in the treatment of intractable epilepsy; and infantile spasms. She has also authored book chapters on pediatric epilepsy surgery and reproductive health in adolescent girls with epilepsy.

Engaging in advocacy for her patients, Dr. Zupanc supports children and their families, both at the bedside and working as part of larger organizations. She is recognized as an excellent clinician. She has moved the field of epilepsy therapy forward; built two large and successful divisions of child neurology; and has been a successful educator.

Aside from her professional pursuits, Dr. Zupanc has done medical mission work in Slovenia, India, Vietnam and Armenia, where she has taught and delivered medical care in remote areas. She has also been involved in family and community outreach to the underserved in the United States, including Native Tribes, Hmong refugees, inner city Black and Latino communities.

Dr. Zupanc considers the Arnold P. Gold Foundation Humanism in Medicine Award (awarded by the Child Neurology Society at their annual meeting in October 2021) to be the highlight of her career. She has earned many more awards for teaching recognition and clinical care at each of the major institutions she has served. “You may be the greatest scientist in the world, but if you don’t have empathy and compassion for patients and families, you can’t advance the field of medicine. To me, as a clinician bringing science to the bedside – this is the ultimate award” says Dr. Zupanc.

Matthew V. Reza, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC

Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Doctor of Nursing Practice NaphCare, Inc.

San Diego, CA

San Diego, CA— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Matthew V. Reza is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Healthcare Professional in the Psychiatric-Mental Health Field.

Dr. Reza began his educational journey at Marquette University where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in 2004. He later pursued a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree at Arizona State University Edson College of Nursing

and Health Innovation, graduating in 2020. In addition to his higher education accomplishments, Dr. Reza served as an Active-Duty Navy Officer and a Naval Officer Medical Recruiter and notes that his Naval Education training, along with his passion for aiding others; providing support to his patients; and his dedication to making a difference have been the keys to his success.

Board-certified, Dr. Reza explained that a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) is an advanced practice registered nurse who holds board certification and is trained to provide a wide range of mental health services to patients and families in a variety of settings. He asserts that PMHNPs diagnose, conduct therapy, and prescribe medications for patients who have psychiatric disorders; medical organic brain disorders; or substance abuse problems. Like Dr. Reza, PMHNPs are licensed to provide emergency psychiatric service; psychosocial and physical assessment of their patients; treatment plans; and manage patient care and may

Merle W. Tochterman, RN

RN Infection Preventionist

Virtua Health

Naples, FL

Naples, FL— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Merle W. Tochterman is acknowledged as a Most Trusted Healthcare Professional for her contributions to the field of Cardiology Management and Nursing.

Ms. Tochterman began her educational journey at Gluster County College where she earned an Associate degree in nursing and continued to Rowan University where she received a Bachelor’s degree in School Nursing.

Ms. Tochterman launched her nursing career at Rancocas Valley Hospital as an emergency room nurse from 1984-1985. She later served as Cardiology Manager at SouthWest Medical in Las Vegas from 1988-1989 where she managed 24

employees, as well as physicians. In this leadership role, she was responsible for the budget; patient care; the non-invasive cardiac care unit; patient education; and developed an anticoag program for the patients. The nurse’s current post since 2004 is as an RN infection Preventionist and Cardiology Manager with Virtua Health, a certified home care agency, where she is responsible for providing education; surveillance; acting as liaison for the visiting nursing staff and physicians; implement the flu program; performing fit testing; and PPD skin tests. As an RN Infection Preventionist, she also monitors any trending of infections.

A revered practitioner in the medical field, Ms. Tochterman has more than 30 years of experience and is considered an expert in emergency room and home care, med surg, managing cardiology units, primary care, and long-term care. She is always seeking the latest advancements in her field, enjoys reading dental journals, and asserts that Mrs. Whirley is her professional mentor, crediting her with

also serve as consultants or as educators for families and staff.

Driven daily by a mission to improve and save lives in corrections through excellence and innovation, Dr. Reza notes that NaphCare, Inc. has been committed to continuously innovating advanced solutions to address complex challenges in the correctional system. The doctor is an experienced nursing and healthcare leader with a demonstrated history of high performance and great communication skills. Known for his compassion and care, Dr. Reza is skilled in management; critical care nursing; leadership; customer service; and military medicine.

Dr. Reza is dedicated to providing the latest advancements in his field and is affiliated with several professional organizations, including the Navy Nurse Corp; the California Association for Nurse Practitioners; and the Navy Association for Nurse Practitioners. Aside from his professional pursuits, Dr. Reza coaches youth volleyball, and regularly volunteers his time in local soup kitchens feeding the needy.

Ms. Tochterman’s attention to detail. A testament to her leadership abilities, she is also the former president of APIC and ANA and credits her personal philosophy for her success as an RN, which is treat your patients like you want to be treated.

Aside from her professional pursuits, Ms. Tochterman enjoys reading, cross stitch, volunteering, and vacationing in Williamsburg, VA. In the future, she would like to continue helping patients as long as possible. She would like to dedicate this honor to her mother, Sheila, in loving memory.

Mike Cotzas, DDS

Orthodontist

Orthodontic Associates of New Canaan

New Canaan, CT

New Canaan, CT— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Mike Cotzas is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the field of Orthodontics.

Dr. Cotzas earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from New York University. He continued his education at Columbia University where he earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree. He completed a General Practice Residency at New York Hospital Medical Center of Queens and

his post-doctoral training in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics at Montefiore Medical Center.

Dr. Cotzas is a board-certified orthodontist at Orthodontic Associates of New Canaan and notes that he helps each patient achieve the healthy, straighter smiles they deserve. The practice is limited to orthodontics for children and teens and the goal of Orthodontic Associates of New Canaan is to provide high-quality orthodontic treatments using the most innovative technology and materials for all patients and achieve the best outcome possible.

Dr. Cotzas keeps up-to-date with the latest techniques and technologies, the newest information and methods around the country by attending conferences and participating in continuing education courses for professional development. He notes that he is dedicated to staying at the forefront of the latest orthodontic advancements and is a member of the College of Diplomates of the American Board of Orthodontics; the American Dental Association; the American

Association of Orthodontists (ABO); the Northeastern Society of Orthodontists; and the Connecticut State Dental Association. According to the doctor, the ABO is the global leader in orthodontic board certification and sets the standards of care for excellence in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics.

The doctor asserts that orthodontics is a specialty of dentistry that deals with the diagnosis prevention and correction of mispositioned teeth and jaws. Orthodontists are responsible for identifying problems with the positioning of a patient’s teeth and with their oral development. They utilize the most advanced procedures and equipment available to ensure that every patient achieves a healthy and beautiful smile.

In his spare time, Dr. Cotzas enjoys traveling, skiing and being a foodie. He would like to dedicate this honor to his family and his parents, George and Dena Cotzas, and thanks them for their love and support.

Mobolaji Odelowo, MD

Interventional Radiologist and Endovascular Surgeon

Endovascular and Interventional Associates

Conroe, TX

Conroe, TX—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Mobolaji Odelowo, MD, as a Most Trusted Healthcare Professional for his contributions to Interventional Radiology and Vascular Surgery.

Dr. Odelowo earned a Medical Degree from the University of Ilorin in Nigeria and completed an Internship and Residency in Diagnostic Radiology at Howard University Hospital. He

also served as the Chief Resident at Howard University Hospital and later completed a Fellowship in Vascular and Interventional Radiology at the University of Pennsylvania. He is board-certified in Vascular Radiology, Interventional Radiology, and Diagnostic Radiology, and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Radiology (DABR), a physicianled organization that oversees the certification of specialists in all branches of Radiology.

The doctor is the founder and Vascular Specialist at Endovascular and Interventional Associates, located in Conroe, TX. He opened the practice in 2008 and has worked in the field for more than 17 years. According to Dr. Odelowo, he and his team at Endovascular and Interventional Associates perform a wide range of minimally invasive procedures and non-vascular treatments. He notes that the cutting-edge, minimally invasive procedures that they perform help reduce side effects, speed recovery, and lessen complications for their patient.

According to Dr. Odelowo, patients come to him to treat conditions such as edema, ankles discoloration, varicose veins, and peripheral vascular disease and for treatments of vertebral compression fractures, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and liver cancer. The practice is located at 600 Conroe Medical Dr. Suite 102 in Conroe, TX.

Dr. Odelowo asserts that his greatest inspiration is his father, a Cardiothoracic Surgeon who inspired him to go into the medical field as an Interventional Radiologist and Vascular Surgeon. Dr. Odelowo has received the Patient’s Choice Award in 2018 and is also a Pastor at his church, The Redeemed Christian Church of God.

Cuyahoga

Cuyahoga Falls, OH—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Nancy J. Keogh is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions to the field of Psychology.

Dr. Keogh began her educational journey at University of Ohio Miami where she earned a Bachelor’s degree. She studied at the University of Akron and earned

both a Masters and a PhD in Psychology in 1983. The doctor currently works for Keogh Bendo and Associates, where she has served for more than 40 years, and specializes in the treatment of various mental disorders related to depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance abuse.

A leader in the field of Psychiatry, Dr. Keogh also conducts psychological assessments on behalf of numerous local courts and attorneys. She is an adjunct faculty member at the Ohio State University’s College of Social Work where she has worked since 2002 and previously served in this capacity at the University of Akron’s department of counseling and special education for more than 15 years. Between 1996 and 2018, Dr. Keogh excelled as the clinical director of Community Health Center in Akron Ohio.

Dr. Keogh is always looking for new and innovative ways to improve her practice and continues to maintain active affiliations with the Ohio

Psychological Association; the American Psychological Association; the Association of Professional Psychologists; and the National Register of Health Service Providers in Psychology. As a testament to her scholarship, Dr. Keogh is an emeritus member of the American Psychological Association. She attributes a great deal of her success to the guidance of her former mentors, Dr. David Weis and Dr. James Siddall, at the University of Akron where she earned a Doctor of Philosophy. In the coming years, Dr. Keogh plans to settle into her well-deserved retirement while continuing to share her psychological expertise in a consultant capacity.

The doctor supports NAMI and local mental health associations, and is the Board President of MODE. She would like to dedicate this honor to her family, Dr. Edward H. Jones, Jr. and Ruth Virginia Jensen Jones, RN, thanks them for their love and support.

Robert A. Wunsch, DMD

Dentist

Reading Family Dental Center, LLC

Wyomissing, PA

Wyomissing, PA—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Robert Wunsch is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Healthcare Professional for his contributions to the field of Dentistry.

A multi-talented athlete and scholar, Dr. Wunsch was a raised in West Reading where he was a football and track and field standout at Wyomissing Area High School. He pursued higher education at Albright College and continued competing at the collegiate level. The doctor then attended Temple University Maurice H. Kornberg School of Dentistry in 1991 and

completed a residency at Community General Hospital from 1991 until 1992.

Offering a caring and relaxing atmosphere for his patients, Dr. Wunsch has worked at Reading Family Dental Center, LLC since 1995 and has practiced in Berks County since 1991. The doctor, along with his team, provides individualized dental solutions for all ages. According to the doctor, Reading Family Dental Center, LLC is a state-of-the-art dental practice providing comprehensive services and extraordinary care to families. Dr. Wunsch said that he and his dental team begin each day in stride to make patients’ visits a bright spot in their day, attaining and exceeding expectations.

Dentistry, according to Dr. Wunsch, is also known as dental and oral medicine and is a branch of medicine that consists of the study; diagnosis; prevention; and treatment of diseases; disorders; and conditions of the oral cavity. Dentists like Dr. Wunsch and his team, diagnose and treat dental issues and help patients develop better oral hygiene regimens. They clean teeth, correct bite issues, perform surgeries and extractions, and

perform other duties to ensure that the teeth and mouth are healthy.

Dr. Wunsch is an active member of the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD) and explained that the AGD is an organization exclusively dedicated to serving the interests and professional needs of the general dentist, providing resources to succeed. He has also been recognized for his excellence in service as the Best in Pennsylvania 2023 by Pennsylvania Magazine.

When contemplating his career, the doctor contributes much of his success to Dr. Halupa and Dr. Pellegrino and their guidance along with his philosophy of taking good care of his patients. Among his many professional accomplishments, he considers opening his own practice as a highlight of his career.

Aside from his professional pursuits, Dr. Wunsch enjoys football, hockey, physical fitness, and reading. He would like to dedicate this honor to his wife, Traci, with whom he is happily married, and their two children, Alyssa and Bradley. He thanks them for their love and support.

Nancy J. Keogh, PhD

Psychologist

Keogh Bendo and Associates

Falls, OH

Nicholas Kusnezov, MD

Orthopedic Surgeon, Adult Reconstructive Specialist Private Practice

Marina Del Rey, CA

Marina Del Rey, CA— Nicholas Kusnezov is being recognized by Continental Who’s Who as a Pinnacle Lifetime Member for his extensive work in orthopaedics.

Dr. Kusnezov graduated Summa Cum Laude from UCLA bioengineering and AOA from the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine. He was the only dual recipient of the Edward K Rice Outstanding Undergraduate Student Award and university-wide Outstanding Bachelor of Science Award, in addition to being solely bestowed the Longmire Surgical Society Award for his distinctive achievement and surgical aptitude. After medical school, he commissioned into the U.S. Military as an officer and completed his internship and residency in orthopedic surgery through the U.S. Army at the combined program of Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and William Beaumont Army Medical Center in El Paso Texas.

During his tenure at the exceedingly busy Level 1 trauma center, he served as chief resident, coordinating residency-wide academics and research, and not only graduated with distinguished honors but received the highest score on the Orthopaedic Boards Exam nationwide. He currently holds the record as the only

three-time consecutive Texas Orthopaedic Association Quiz Bowl champion in history.

Following graduation, he served out his military commitment in Nashville, TN, where he built and headed an advanced adult reconstruction program, establishing the infrastructure for a cutting-edge and high-volume joint replacement center of excellence. He dually served as the “team physician” to the revered 5th Special Forces group, 160th and 101st airborne division for 4 years. Upon deployment with the 349th combat support hospital and 379th air expeditionary wing, he served as the brigade orthopaedic surgeon and group physician to the SOCCENT special operations group.

Dr. Kusnezov served his country with distinction, earning multiple Meritorious Service and Army Commendation Medals. For his unsurpassed service to the community, he was consecutively bestowed the distinct honor of not only Kentucky Colonel but Tennessee Aide de Camp by the respective governors. During his time in Midwest, he went on to complete an Orthopaedic Trauma Apprenticeship at Vanderbilt University and served as Director of Orthopaedic Trauma at Pikeville Medical Center, frequently providing needed coverage to underserved trauma centers throughout Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee.

Upon honorable completion of his military service, he returned to his home in sunny Southern California to complete the nationally renowned Adult Reconstruction Fellowship at the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, relocating thereafter to San Diego to begin his ultimate practice as the premier Joint Replacement Specialist with Ortho 1 Medical Group in

San Diego, in affiliation with the Sharp and Scripps Healthcare systems.

In addition to a decorated career in the U.S Military, Dr. Kusnezov is actively engaged in graduate medical education and clinical research, having co-authored over 100 peer-reviewed publications and top-read research manuscripts in top-tier orthopaedic journals. He is lifelong lover of education, an author and Managing Editor at Orthobullets, the foremost source of orthopaedic education worldwide, and continues to teach through case-based didactic as a chief contributor to AAOS Orthopaedic Knowledge Update and Figure1.

He has been recognized numerous times not only for his scholarly activity, receiving first place podium and research awards both regionally and nationally, but for his clinical excellence and surgical skill by Top Doctors of America, Continental Who’s Who, and Best in California Magazine.

However, beyond the impressive achievements, and perhaps most important of all, there is a man who deeply cares for the well-being of his patients. Dr. Kusnezov believes that each patient is special and each situation unique, and that it is paramount to build a strong doctor-patient relationship in order to understand each patient’s goals and to thereby foster the best possible outcomes. Whether this is improved pain and function, returning to an active lifestyle, or going on to gold-medal in a world championship, Dr. Kusnezov has your back and will get you there.

In his leisure time, Dr. Kusnezov enjoys spending time with his beautiful wife and two daughters, some occasional pick-up racquetball, and of course weight training, as a reigning proud member of the 1000lb club.

Nicole McConnell, MD, FACOG

Obstetrician Gynecologist

Women’s Care

Brandon, FL

Brandon, FL—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Nicole McConnell is acknowledged as a Most Trusted Healthcare Professional for her contributions to the Fields of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Dr. McConnell earned a Bachelor’s degree in both Psychology and Microbiology & Cell science from the University of Florida. She was part of the inaugural medical school class and earned her medical degree from the Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine at Florida Atlantic University. She completed a residency in obstetrics and gynecology at the University

of Louisville in Kentucky where she served as chief resident in her final year and was part of the wellness initiative within her program.

Dr. McConnell currently serves at Women’s Care operating out of the office in Brandon Florida. She can also be found on staff at HCA Florida Brandon Hospital & St. Joseph’s Hospital. Her areas of interest include high-risk obstetrics family planning and menopause.

During residency, Dr. McConnell presented research on the effects of pessaries on the vaginal microenvironment at a national conference and was published in the Gold Journal. She also took a special interest in da Vinci robotic surgery and became robotic certified.

The doctor is board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG) and notes that the mission of the ABOG is to define specialty standards certify obstetricians and gynecologists and facilitate continuous learning to advance knowledge practice and professionalism in women’s health. She is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and

Gynecologists (FACOG) and the American Medical Women’s Association.

According to Dr. McConnell, obstetrics and gynecology (OB-GYN) is the medical specialty that encompasses the two subspecialties of obstetrics (covering pregnancy childbirth and the postpartum period) and gynecology (covering the health of the female reproductive system vagina uterus ovaries and breasts). An obstetrician-gynecologist specializes in the diagnosis treatment and prevention of diseases and disorders that affect women such as breast cancer cervical cancer and menopause. Additionally, they work with expecting mothers throughout their pregnancies during childbirth and into postpartum. Dr. McConnell is considered an expert in gynecology, minimally invasive surgery, high risk, and multiple births.

The doctor notes that her mentors are Dr. Daniel Messinger and Dr. Ashley Bergen. She supports Wounded Warriors and Planned Parenthood, NPR and would like to dedicate this honor to her husband, Dr. Douglas McConnell and thank him for his love and support. During her free time Dr. McConnell enjoys going to the beach, reading, doing yoga, and running.

Olumuyiwa Ibikunle, MD

Geriatrician Atlantic Medical Group Hospitalists at Overlook Annandale, NJ

Annandale, NJ—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Olumuyiwa Ibikunle is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the Field of Geriatrics

Dr. Ibikunle earned a Medical Degree from the University of Ibadan College of Medicine in 1992. He completed an internship at Coney Island Hospital

in 2005 after relocating to the United States. He finished a residency in internal medicine at Overlook Medical Center in 2007 and completed his fellowship in geriatric medicine at the Cleveland Medical Center in 2008.

The doctor is board-certified in internal medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM). According to Dr. Ibikunle, the ABIM is a physicianled non-profit independent evaluation organization driven by doctors who want to achieve higher standards for better care in a rapidly changing world.

Dr. Ibikunle asserts that geriatrics, or geriatric medicine, is a specialty that focuses on the health care of elderly people. It aims to promote health by preventing and treating diseases and disabilities in older adults. A geriatrician is a health care provider who focuses on patient well-being and independent functioning. These allopathic or

osteopathic health care providers are specifically trained to evaluate and manage the unique health care needs and special treatment requirements of older people.

Dr. Ibikunle is affiliated with Atlantic Medical Group Hospitalists at Overlook located in Summit New Jersey. His mentor is Dr. Barnataga and he contributes to the Alzheimer’s Charity. He would like to dedicate this honor to his wife, Adimbola, and his parents, Samuel and Phebean. He would also like to thank them for their love and support.

Nirat Beohar, MD, FACC, FSCAI

Interventional Cardiologist and Professor of Medicine

Mount Sinai Medical Center Miami Shores, FL

Miami Shores, FL—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Dr. Nirat Beohar is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Life Member for his contributions to the Fields of Interventional Cardiology and Medical Education.

Dr. Beohar earned a Medical Degree from the Maulana Azad Medical College in 1990. He relocated to the United States and completed his residency in Internal Medicine at the Baylor College of Medicine in 1994. He was a visiting fellow at the Laboratory of Molecular Cardiology at the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute and completed his fellowship in cardiovascular disease at George Washington University in 1998. He completed a second fellowship in Interventional Cardiology at the Feinberg Medical School in 1999.

A Fellow of the American College of Cardiology (FACC) The doctor is a Fellow

of the American College of Cardiology (FACC) and is board-certified in cardiovascular disease, interventional cardiology, nuclear cardiology, CT angiography, and internal medicine by the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM). The doctor notes that ABIM is a physician-led non-profit independent evaluation organization driven by doctors who want to achieve higher standards for better care in a rapidly changing world.

Dr. Beohar asserts that he has devoted his career to the use and development of catheter-based therapies for the treatment of heart disease. He currently serves as the Vice Chief of the Columbia University Division of Cardiology at Mount Sinai Medical Center and Director of the hospital’s Cardiac Catheterization Lab. He is also the Medical Director of the hospital’s Structural Heart Disease Program and Director for the hospital’s Interventional Cardiology Fellowship Program. Dr. Beohar is also a Professor at Columbia University Medical Center.

The doctor has extensive expertise in implanting catheter-delivered heart aortic valves and has a broad repertoire of catheter-based therapies. He is an expert in treating complex coronary conditions, such as left main and multi-vessel disease as well as chronic total occlusions. He also has expertise with devices to close atrial septal defects, PFOs, and other intracardiac shunts. Dr. Beohar implants left ventricular assist devices such as the Tandem heart and Impella for patients in cardiogenic shock. He is skilled in

transseptal catheterization, a highly specialized technique used to access the left side of the heart to treat structural heart disease and has had experience with percutaneous therapies for peripheral vascular disease.

Prior to joining Mount Sinai-Columbia, Dr. Beohar was an interventional cardiologist at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago and Associate Professor of Medicine at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. He previously was the Director of the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory at the Veterans Administration Lakeside Hospital in Chicago. According to the doctor, cardiology is a branch of medicine that deals with the disorders of the heart, as well as some parts of the circulatory system. The field includes medical diagnosis and treatment of congenital heart defects, coronary artery disease, heart failure, valvular heart disease, and electrophysiology. He notes that cardiologists are doctors who diagnose, assess, and treat patients with diseases and defects of the heart and blood vessels (the cardiovascular system).

Dr. Beohar has been the recipient of the Top Doctor Award by Coral Gables Magazine in 2019 and lectures to fellows and assists with medical education in India. He would like to dedicate this honor in loving memory of his parents, Prakash C. and Sushma Beohar, and his mentors, Robert Bonow, MD, and Charles J. Davidson, MD.

Leslie Alison Newman

Registered Nurse

Alleghany Health Network

Monroeville, PA

Monroeville, PA—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Leslie Alison Newman is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions to the Field of Nursing.

Ms. Newman received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Nursing from Chamberlain University. She currently

works at Alleghany Health Network with the facility’s brain injury program where she provides physical and occupational therapy to help rehabilitate patients with severe brain injuries. She is certified in medical-surgical nursing and is considered an expert in Medical Surgical Nursing.

Ms. Newman is affiliated with the American Nurses Association and is a member of the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. She has been in her current position for more than 12 years. Before working at the Alleghany Health Network, she worked in

orthopedic surgery at a federally-funded pediatricians office.

In her free time, she enjoys swimming and exercising. In the future, Ms. Newman hopes to continue advancing professionally and possibly pursue a Doctorate degree in nursing practice.

Owen O’Connor, MD, Ph.D. Medical Oncology & Founder

Nouveau Biosciences

Scarsdale, NY

Scarsdale, NY— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Owen A. O’Connor, M.D., Ph.D., is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Healthcare Professional for his contributions in inventing and developing many drugs for the treatment of blood cancers.

Dr. O’Connor earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science at Manhattan College in New York. He completed a Ph.D. in Environmental Medicine at the New York University Medical School, where he studied the mechanisms of chemical carcinogenesis. He completed a Medical Degree from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey and completed an internship and residency in Internal Medicine at the New York Hospital - Cornell University Medical Center. He also completed

two fellowships, including one in medical oncology in the Department of Medicine under the Clinical Investigator Program, in the laboratory of Dr. Joseph R. Bertino, at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and a second in clinical pharmacology in the Division of Pharmacology in the Department of Medicine New York Hospital - Cornell University Medical School. He was appointed Chief Medical Oncology Fellow in the Department of Medicine at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.

Dr. O’Connor is an internationally renowned oncologist and is known for his expertise in drug discovery and development and in diagnosing and treating all forms of lymphoma. He has more than 20 years of experience in academic medicine and invented and pioneered the development of several first-in-class drugs to treat blood cancer.

Dr. O’Connor also co-invented a drug for T-cell lymphoma, which has now been approved in over 35 countries worldwide. He has held several prestigious leadership positions at major cancer centers in New York City, including Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York University Medical Center, and Columbia University Medical Center.

Dr. O’Connor’s scientific interests are focused on developing novel, small molecules for blood cancer treatment. He is focused on chemistry through preclinical modeling and early-phase

clinical studies to regulatory Phase 3 studies. Dr. O’Connor has published more than 250 articles in peer-reviewed journals, books and book chapters, and reviews on managing lymphoma and drug discovery. He is the editor of the first textbook on the Peripheral T-Cell Lymphomas and is now editing a new series of books for Wiley Sciences on Precision Cancer Therapies.

The doctor is affiliated with the Scientific Advisory Board for the Lymphoma Research Foundation, the Leukemia Lymphoma Society and has received countless awards for his research, including being named to America’s Top Cancer Doctors, cited among the Top 50 Irish-Americans in Science and Medicine by the Irish government, and inducted into the New Jersey Inventors Hall of Fame. He also received the American Cancer Society Research Professorship, the most prestigious honor bestowed by the Society. He has been a Castle Connolly Top Doctor since 2011.

Dr. O’Connor is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, the American Association for Cancer Research, and the American Society of Hematology.

In his spare time, Dr. O’Connor enjoys creative photography and travel and spending time at his second home on Cape Cod. He actively supports the Association for the Preservation of Cape Cod and the Cape Cod Arts Center.

Paul Byrne, MD, FACOG

Obstetrician/Gynecologist

Square Care Medical Group

Mineola, NY

Mineola, NY— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Paul Byrne is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the fields of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Dr. Byrne began his educational journey at Cornell University where he earned a Bachelor’s degree. He then completed a Medical Degree at SUNY Syracuse and finished a residency in Winthrop. Working in private practice, the doctor is a highly sought-after obstetriciangynecologist and also teaches medical students from the SUNY at Stony Brook School of Medicine; New York College of Osteopathic Medicine; and NYU Langone Long Island School of Medicine, as well as residents and fellows from South Mount Sinai at South Nassau and NYU Langone Long Island.

Dr. Byrne specializes in both in-office and hospital care providing obstetric and gynecologic procedures. He is especially affective in the care of patients with high-risk pregnancies and minimally

invasive surgeries. With many years of experience, the doctor is a specialist in Da Vinci procedures and minimally invasive surgery.

Dedicated to providing the latest advancements to his patients, the doctor is affiliated with FACOG, AOA, AMA, and MSSNY. Although he has a celebrated career, he considers delivering the children of the daughters of his patients, the next generation, as a highlight. He also believes most of his success is due to following his philosophy, which is to “figure out what a patient needs and wants.”

Dr. Byrne plans to continue what he loves to do. Aside from his professional pursuits, he enjoys spending time with his grandchildren.

Pedro Quesada, DDS

Dentist and Owner

Dr. Quesada & Associates, PA

Miramar, FL

Miramar, FL— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Pedro Quesada, DDS, is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the fields of Dentistry and Oral Surgery.

Dr. Quesada began his educational journey in Villa Clara, Cuba and earned a bachelors and dental degree there. He relocated to the United States and served as a nurse for 6 years at Hialeah Hospital prior to achieving his DDS degree at Nova Southeastern University. While at Nova, he spent two years of advanced education using his surgical background.

Dr. Quesada is an oral surgeon and general dental practitioner in private practice at Dr. Quesada & Associates, PA, which he notes is conveniently located in Coral Springs, Florida. The doctor offers restorative dental care to extensive surgical procedures with the sole purpose of providing complete dental rehabilitation and specifically serving special needs patients, who he notes are undertreated.

Considered a leader in his fields, Dr. Quesada’s notes that he is especially proud to offer complete recovery of dental health to his patients who do not need to be referred out of his offices. The doctor differentiates his practice from others by ensuring that his business slogan, Making Top Quality Dentistry Affordable, applies to all of his patients as well as outstanding holistic practices.

Dr. Quesada was inspired to provide excellent overall skills in general dentistry and cover a broad span of practice in all specialties when he realized that a majority of his patients could not afford dental treatment either because of lack of insurance coverage; economical restraints; or poor comprehensive dental

education. He asserts that dentistry, also known as Dental and Oral Medicine, is a branch of medicine that consists of the study, diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases, disorders, and conditions of the oral cavity. Dentists such as Dr. Quesada diagnose and treat dental issues and help patients develop better oral hygiene regimens. They clean teeth; correct bite issues; perform surgeries and extractions; and perform other duties to ensure that the teeth and mouth are healthy.

A self-defined workaholic, Dr. Quesada is focused on spending time with his patients, and also has a passion for spending quality time with his family. He is married to Yanet Calero, also a doctor from Cuba, who is fulfilling her dream of becoming a dentist in the United States and they have two boys, Ian Pablo and Nathan Quesada. In his spare time, the doctor volunteers at his children’s school and also works with the Florida Department of Health as a catastrophe volunteer.

The doctor credits his mentor, Steven Ellen, DMD as the inspiration for his career.

Phillip A. Villanueva, MD, ABNS

Neurosurgeon Temple University Hospital

Meadowbrook, PA

Meadowbrook, PA — Phillip A. Villanueva, MD, ABNS, is being recognized by Continental Who’s Who as a Most Trusted Healthcare Professional for his contributions to Neurosurgery.

Dr. Villanueva received a Bachelor of Science with a double major in biology and chemistry and a minor in theology and philosophy from Biscayne College

(St. Thomas University). He earned his Medical Degree from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and completed his general surgery internship and neurosurgery residency after medical school at the University of Miami, Jackson Memorial Medical Center. The doctor is board certified in neurological surgery and in neuro-critical care.

Dr. Villanueva specializes in surgeries for brain injuries and neuro-critical care. He treats aneurysms and all secondary issues regarding these conditions and also manages the Neuroscience ICU consulting with neurologists. He has served as the Director of Neuro Trauma and Critical Care for more than 8 years at Temple University Hospital in Philadelphia, PA. and is a Professor of Clinical Neurosurgery at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University.

The doctor is Fellow of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons and is board-certified in neurological surgery

by the American Board of Neurological Surgery. He is a member of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons and serves on the subcommittee for neurocritical care.

Dr. Villanueva has created a series of public service announcements to increase community awareness of brain trauma outside of his neurology practice. He has been the recipient of the Best Doctors in America Award in Neurological Surgery (2019-2020), and numerous other recognitions.

Dr. Villanueva would like to dedicate this honor to his mentors, Hubert Rosomoff, MD; Barth Green, MD; and Bradley Ruben, MD.

Pierre-Yves J. Sonke, MD Radiologist

Westchester Medical Center

Tarrytown, NY

Tarrytown, NY— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Pierre-Yves Sonke, MD, is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Healthcare Professional for his contributions to Medical Imaging.

Dr. Sonke began his scholarship at Erasmus Medical School in Rotterdam Netherlands and graduated in 1985.

He then continued with a two-year fellowship in cancer research focused in radiation biology supported by the Kankerbestrijding (KWF), Dutch Cancer Society, in Rijswijk and Amsterdam Netherlands. Upon relocating to England, he completed internships in oncology at Princess Royal Hospital; emergency medicine at Hull Royal Infirmary; anesthesia at Royal Berkshire Hospital; and clinical chemistry at Royal Hallamshire Hospital.

Continuing his exceptional education, Dr. Sonke enrolled a residency in anatomical and clinical pathology in Long Island, New York. He completed a residency in nuclear medicine at North Shore Hospital and in diagnostic radiology at New York Methodist Hospital. The doctor attained board certification in diagnostic radiology through ABR and notes that the ABR is a not-for-profit physician-led organization

Ramineh Kangarloo, DDS

Dentist and Owner

Sweet Smiles Dentistry

Falls Church, VA

Falls Church, VA—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Ramineh Kangarloo, DDS is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions to the Field of Dentistry.

Dr. Kangarloo graduated with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry. She completed a one-year hospital-based residency at Hackensack Medical Center in New Jersey and a six-month postgraduate course in cosmetic dentistry at Columbia University in New York.

Dr. Kangarloo is a general and cosmetic dentist and is the Owner of Sweet Smiles Dentistry in Falls Church Virginia.

According to the doctor, she is passionate about helping her patients improve their oral health and achieve a beautiful smile.

Dr. Kangarloo notes that her warm, joyful personality and soft gentle hands make her patients feel very comfortable and relaxed. One of the qualities that makes

Dr. Kangarloo is known by her patients for her understanding of how to fulfill each patient’s needs. She finds great joy in seeing the patient’s smiling faces after their treatment has been completed.

According to Dr. Kangarloo, Sweet Smiles Dentistry offers specialty dental services in general cosmetic, orthodontic, endodontic, and periodontal care. The highly trained specialists and skilled personnel with excellent bedside manners are eager to support every individual’s unique dental needs.

Dr. Kangarloo takes intensive continuing education courses with leading organizations, such as Spear and The Dawson Academy. She is an active member of the American Dental Association; the Virginia Dental Association; the Northern Virginia Dental Society; and the Academy of General Dentistry.

The doctor explained that dentistry, also known as Dental and Oral Medicine, is a branch of medicine that consists of the study diagnosis prevention and treatment of diseases, disorders, and conditions of the oral cavity. Dentists diagnose and treat dental issues and help patients develop better oral hygiene regimens. They

that oversees the certification and ongoing professional development of specialists in diagnostic radiology interventional radiology radiation oncology and medical physics.

Dr. Sonke is currently an attending physician at Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla, New York. He is considered a specialist, including body imaging; nuclear medicine; PET/CT; body CT; MR and ultrasound imaging. According to the doctor, diagnostic radiology refers to the field of medicine that uses non-invasive imaging scans for medical diagnosis.

In addition to his medical practice, Dr. Sonke is an assistant professor of radiology at New York Medical College. He is a member of the American Roentgen Ray Society and the European Society of Radiology.

clean teeth, correct bite issues, perform surgeries and extractions, and perform other duties to ensure that the teeth and mouth are healthy.

Dr. Kangarloo is recognized as a TOP Dentist in the Northern Virginia region and is featured as a Dental Expert on the TOP Doctors Interviews, which are seen on CNN Headline News, FOX News, Oprah Winfrey, CNBC, and other networks. Dr. Kangarloo asserts that she strives to make a difference in her community and the ones around her. Her dedication to community works, her patients, and her profession provide her with insights into how to treat her patients with compassion, a gentle touch, and how to make every visit to her office a positive experience.

Dr. Kangarloo is married and has two wonderful children and one fur baby. She enjoys painting, decorating, creating floral arrangements, reading, and spending time with her friends and family.

R. Eugene Ramsay, MD, FAAN, FACNS, FAES

Neurologist and Owner

International Center for Epilepsy: Treatment, Research, and Education

New Orleans, LA

New Orleans, LA— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, R. Eugene Ramsay is acknowledged as a Distinguished Healthcare Professional for his contributions to the field of Neurology.

Dr. Ramsay earned a Bachelor of Science and Medical Degrees from the University of Florida in Gainesville. He completed an internship in the Department of Surgery and a fellowship in the Department of Neurology at Shand’s Teaching Hospital. He also finished a fellowship in epilepsy and electroencephalography at the VA Medical Center in Gainesville.

Dr. Ramsay is a faculty member of Ochsner Health and established a Comprehensive Epilepsy Center to serve the citizens of Louisiana. He also

serves on the National Professional Advisory Committee of Epilepsy Alliance America, which is composed of epilepsy experts across a wide range of medical disciplines. Prior to this post, the doctor was a professor of neurology and director of the International Center for Epilepsy at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. He also served as a clinical associate professor at Nova Southeastern University College of Pharmacy in Fort Lauderdale and was president of the Southern Clinical Neurological Society from 1988 to 1990. He has trained 28 fellows, several of whom are now leading epileptologists at other epilepsy centers.

The doctor is associated with the American Epilepsy Society; Clinical Neurologic Society of America; Fellow of the American Clinical Neurophysiology Society; and Fellow of the American Academy of Neurology. He is also a National Board member of the Epilepsy Alliance of America. Dr. Ramsay is also board-certified in neurology and electroencephalography; is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN); a member of the American Electroencephalographic Society; and the American Neurological Association. According to the doctor, the ABPN is a not-for-profit corporation dedicated to serving the professions of psychiatry and neurology.

Ralph L. Cook

Owner

Precision Dental Designs

Davenport, IA

Davenport, IA— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Ralph Cook is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the fields of Dentistry and Dental Laboratories.

Mr. Cook entered into the dentistry and dental laboratory services after completing an apprenticeship with the Brown Dental Laboratory and a program

to become a Certified Dental Technician (CDT) in 1974. He served in the United States Army from 1966 to 1969 where he provided dental care to soldiers prior to leaving the service and opening his business, Dental Designs, in 1981. Based in Davenport, Iowa, Mr. Cook provides superior service and products to clients, including cast and ceramic teeth restorations; removable mouth guards; and other hybrid dental implants. He has been in the field for more than 20 years and is an expert in dental partials. Dedicated to providing the latest innovations in his field, Mr. Cook is a member of the National Association of Dental Laboratories.

Dr. Ramsay asserts that neurology is a branch of medicine dealing with disorders of the nervous system. It deals with the diagnosis and treatment of all categories of conditions and disease involving the central and peripheral nervous systems including their coverings blood vessels and all effector tissue such as muscle. Neurologists are specialists who treat diseases of the brain and spinal cord peripheral nerves and muscles. Neurological conditions include epilepsy stroke multiple sclerosis (MS) and Parkinson’s disease.

Dr. Ramsay is also an author and is the Chief Editor of the book Neurobiology of Epilepsy and Aging, as well as the textbook Seizures and Epilepsy in the Elderly with A. James Rowan. He is also the author or coauthor of more than 120 articles published in peer-reviewed journals 28 book chapters and a book.

Dr. Ramsay is the recipient of more than 80 grants for research in the treatment of epilepsy. Dr. Ramsay’s notes that his leading accomplishment has been the completion of a large multicenter study on the treatment of epilepsy in a geriatric population.

Dr. Ramsay has been a supporter and coach for youth baseball and soccer in years past. He notes that his mentors are B.J. Wilder, MD, and Cosimo Marsan, MD, and his colleague and collaborator on clinical trials, A. James Rowen, MD.

Aside from his professional practice, Mr. Cook serves as a volunteer with the St. Anthony Catholic Church and donates dental services to those in need. He notes that he is proud to have helped many individuals over the course of his career and attributes much of his success to his team.

Mr. Cook would like to dedicate this honor to his daughter, Lindsey Veit.

Ricardo T. Carter, MD

Hematologist-Oncologist Private Practice

Lewistown, PA

Lewistown, PA—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Ricardo T. Carter, M.D. is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the Oncology Field.

Dr. Carter began his educational journey at the Center University of New York, Medgar Evers College in Brooklyn. He then attended the Faculty of Medicine, University of Xochicalco School of Medicine in Mexico where he earned a Medical Degree in 1981. The doctor completed a residency in internal medicine at the State University of New York Downstate/ Lutheran Medical Center in Brooklyn and a Fellowship in hematology and oncology completed

at Boston University/ Boston Veterans Administration Medical Center.

Located in Lewistown, Pennsylvania, Dr. Carter is a hematologist-oncologist in private practice since 1991. In addition to clinical trials through Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group, the doctor offers oncology and hematology evaluation and diagnosis. He also provides 24-hour chemotherapy on ambulatory pumps for home chemotherapy; biotherapy; cancer clinical trials; chemotherapy; hormonal therapy; immunotherapy; and iron therapy. Dr. Carter treats all forms of cancer and blood disorders in adults and educates his patients on their conditions, creates a comfortable environment, and treats them as individuals.

The doctor asserts that “Our mission is to provide state-of-the-art treatments in a community setting for patients with cancer and blood disorders. This practice works with other major medical centers to provide a coordinated team approach to your treatment. We believe in the importance of continuity of care for our patients so we provide twenty-four-hour inpatient and outpatient care provided by a physician.”

Hematology, according to Dr. Carter, is the branch of medicine concerned with the study of the cause, prognosis,

treatment, and prevention of diseases related to blood. He notes that oncology is a branch of medicine that deals with the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer. A hematologist-oncologist, like Dr. Carter, is a physician who specializes in the diagnosis treatment or prevention of cancer malignant blood diseases such as leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma, as well as blood disorders such as iron-deficiency; anemia; clotting abnormalities; hemophilia; sickle-cell disease; and rare hematologic related syndromes and diseases.

Dedicated to providing the latest in advancements in his field, Dr. Carter is a member of the American College of Physicians; American Society of Clinical Oncologists; American Society of Hematology; Pennsylvania Medical Society; Pennsylvania Hematology Oncology Society. and is affiliated with Geisinger Medical Center. Dr. Carter has chaired the Lewiston Hospital Cancer Committee, and the Community Oncology Group in Hershey.

The doctor notes that his mentor is Daniel Karp, MD with whom he credits his attention to detail in his practice. Aside from his medical pursuits, Dr. Carter supports the Relay for Life and other community events.

Robert Torrey, MD, FACS

Urologist

Loma Linda/Dr. Robert R. Torrey Jr., MD Redlands, CA

Redlands, CA— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Robert Torrey, Jr. is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Healthcare Professional for his contributions to the field of Urologic Oncology.

The doctor began his higher education pursuits at Pacific Union College where he earned a Bachelor’s degree. He then attended Loma Linda Medical School where he received a Medical Doctor degree in 1971; completed internships at Georgia Baptist Hospital; Grady Hospital; and Washington Children’s Hospital; and a residency at Redlands Community Hospital. He capped his scholarship with a Fellowship in Urologic Oncology at Sloan Kettering.

Specializing in diseases with the urinary tract and the male reproductive system, Dr. Robert Torrey Jr. practices in Redlands, CA. He focuses on areas of the bladder, urethra, kidneys, penis, and prostate and notes that urology is a surgical specialty and requires knowledge in other areas of expertise, such as gynecology and internal medicine due to the variety of clinical

problems that are involved. The doctor is board certified by the American Board of Urology.

Among his career accomplishments, the doctor considers teaching at Loma Linda Medical School as a highlight in his career. He has also served as the former president of the Cancer Society at Loma Linda. He attributes much of his success to having special lifelong relationships with my patients and guidance from his mentors, Robert Torrey Sr., MD and Will Whitmore, MD.

In the future, Dr. Torrey would like to continue doing what he loves, which is helping his patients. Aside from his professional pursuits, the doctor enjoys playing tennis and guitar. He would like to dedicate this honor to his dear wife, children, and grandchildren, and thanks them for their love and support.

Richard D. Southgate, MD

Orthopaedic Surgeon

Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital

Libertyville, IL

Libertyville, IL— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Richard D. Southgate is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Healthcare Professional for his contributions to the field of Orthopedics.

Dr. Southgate began his pursuit of higher education at Carleton College where he earned a Bachelor’s degree. He continued at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine in 2010 where he received a medical degree. He then performed a residency at the University of Rochester in 2016, followed by a fellowship in hip and knee replacement at the University of California, San Francisco in 2017.

Dr. Southgate was inspired to become a physician early in his life when he developed a love for science and a desire to help others. Serving on the medical staff at Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital, the doctor said, “What

attracted me to orthopedic surgery and joint replacements was their pronounced effect on the quality of life. My main goal is to get patients back to their hobbies and be as independent as possible.” He explained that orthopedic surgery is the branch of surgery concerned with conditions involving the musculoskeletal system. Orthopedic surgeons use both surgical and non-surgical means to treat musculoskeletal trauma, spine diseases, sports injuries, degenerative diseases, infections, tumors, and congenital disorders.

Board-certified in orthopedic surgery, the doctor is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthopedic Surgery (ABOS). He explained that ABOS is an organization with the goal of establishing educational and professional standards for orthopedic residents and surgeons as well as evaluating the qualifications and competence of orthopedic surgeons. Dr. Southgate is dedicated to restoring quality of life and specializes in hip replacement surgery through the anterior, posterior, and lateral approaches; total and partial knee replacement; and complex revision surgery. He has special interests in partial knee and anterior hip replacements as well as geriatric hip trauma.

The doctor believes that the precise treatment varies based on the patient, and shared decision-making is paramount in determining a plan of care. He notes that he offers his services within the

Lake Forest Hospital Orthopaedics

Practice offering care and treatment for a wide range of orthopedic and spine conditions. The Lake Forest Hospital Neurosciences Practice provides patients with comprehensive, highly specialized neurological expertise, including access to related subspecialists; neurosurgeons and clinical trials; and Northwestern Medicine Orthopaedics at Grayslake Outpatient Center, which is one of the nation’s premier destinations for musculoskeletal services.

Dr. Southgate spent a portion of his childhood in his mother’s native country of Ecuador and has native fluency of Spanish. This skill has led him to be involved in several medical missions throughout Latin America. Most of his volunteer time is now focused on Operation Walk, an organization dedicated to providing orthopedic surgeries to those most in need of lifechanging procedures, ensuring that they have the ability to work, move, and engage in life.

The doctor notes that his mentors are Dr. Stephen Kates; Dr. John Elfar; Derek Ward; T. Parker Vail; and Erik Hansen. He has published numerous journal articles and considers his appointment as Site Director of the OHSU Ortho Residents at Community Hospital as a career highlight. Dr. Southgate would like to dedicate this honor to his mother and thanks her for her love and support.

Robert G. Veligdan, DMD

Dentist

Private Practice

New York, NY

New York, NY—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Robert Veligdan is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle

Healthcare Professional for his contributions to the field of Dentistry.

Dr. Veligdan began his educational journey at the University of Pittsburgh School of Dentistry where he earned a Bachelor’s degree and a Medical Degree. He then completed a residency at Presbyterian Hospital NYC.

A board-certified practitioner, Dr. Veligdan practices in New York and specializes in preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases and conditions associated with the mouth and overall dental health. He asserts that dentists are trained to carry out such treatments as professional cleaning; restorative

prosthodontic; and endodontic procedures, as well as performing examinations.

A leader in his field, Dr. Veligdan is dedicated to staying abreast of the latest advancements in dentistry and is a member of many healthcare organizations, such as HGD, HDS, and IAOMT. The doctor notes that is mentor is Roger Levin. He would like to dedicate this honor to his wife, Rosa, and thanks her for her love and support. He also wishes to honor his parents, George and Mary, with this accolade in loving memory.

Robert L. Doyle, MD Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist

Massachusetts General and McLean

Cambridge, MA

Cambridge, MA—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Robert L. Doyle, MD, is acknowledged as a Distinguished Healthcare Professional for his contributions to the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry fields.

Inspired to work in the medical field at a young age, Dr. Doyle earned a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Louisiana State University School of Dentistry and worked in the field for four years. Inspired to expand his career in the medical field, he began his extraordinary educational

journey at Louisiana State University where he earned Bachelor of Science degrees in both Microbiology and Zoology as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts. He then pursued a medical degree from the Louisiana State University Medical Center. He continued this scholarship at the Louisiana State University Graduate School where he earned a Master of Arts degree in Humanities and later completed his residency in psychiatry in 1996. Dr. Doyle capped his scholarship with a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in 1998 and completed an additional fellowship in psychosomatic medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital in 1999.

Dr. Doyle is the Assistant Medical Director of the McLean-Franciscan Child and Adolescent Inpatient Program and works part-time as an Instructor in Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. Board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry, Dr. Doyle specializes in child and adolescent psychiatry and notes that the ABPN is a notfor-profit corporation dedicated to serving the professions of psychiatry and neurology.

The doctor has maintained an outpatient practice at Massachusetts General Hospital and McLean Hospital while focusing on research. He spent five years working with faculty and staff at Harvard University Health Services before changing direction to primarily inpatient child and adolescent psychiatry. A leader in his field, the doctor has extensive experience treating ADHD mood disorders and anxiety disorders as a clinical researcher in the Pediatric Psychopharmacology Research Unit at Massachusetts General Hospital.

Dr. Doyle has received many accolades during his illustrious career, including three Mass General Brigham in Excellence Awards during his first two years of practice. In addition to his practice, the doctor is on the editorial board of The International Journal of Immunology and Pharmacology, recently cited as one of Italy’s top ten scientific journals.

In his spare time, Dr. Doyle enjoys design, such as architecture and interior design. For more information about Dr. Doyle’s practice, please visit www.mcleanhospital. org/profile/robert-doyle.

Robert W. Reindollar, MD, FACG, FAASLD

Gastroenterologist

Piedmont HealthCare

Mooresville, NC

Mooresville, NC— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Robert Reindollar is acknowledged as a Most Trusted Healthcare Professional for his contributions as a Gastroenterologist.

Dr. Reindollar began his educational journey at Catawba College where he earned an undergraduate degree. He received a Medical degree at the University of Maryland School of Medicine in Baltimore Maryland and then completed a residency

at the Medical University of South Carolina. He finished a fellowship in gastroenterology at the University of Maryland School of Medicine followed by his fellowship in hepatology with the University of Miami –Center for Liver Disease.

A testament to his exceptional education and experience, the doctor attained board certification in gastroenterology and internal medicine through the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM). According to Dr. Reindollar, the ABIM is a physician-led, non-profit independent evaluation organization driven by doctors who want to achieve higher standards for better care in a rapidly changing world.

Dr. Reindollar is a dedicated professional recognized as an expert in his field. He is a Fellow of the American College of Gastroenterology (FACOG); a Fellow of the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (FAASLD); and is a member of the American Gastroenterology Association and the American College of Physicians. Dr. Reindollar asserts that gastroenterology is the branch of

medicine focused on the digestive system and its disorders. A gastroenterologist is a physician who has extensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders related to the esophagus, stomach, small intestines; colon; liver; pancreas; and biliary system.

Dr. Reindollar is partnered with Dr. Brandon Marion at Piedmont HealthCare Gastroenterology where they support the GI needs of Statesville, Mooresville, and Troutman. Both doctors serve patients with digestive problems, such as heartburn or inflammatory bowel disease. Dr. Reindollar has received many recognitions for his dedication and compassionate care, including the Patients’ Choice Award (2018, 2017, 2010 2009, 2008) and Compassionate Doctor Recognition (2018, 2016, 2011, 2010). He is associated with Gastroenterology Association; Fellow of the American of Gastroenterology; and Fellow of the American Associate for the Study of Liver Disease. He notes that his mentors are Eugene R. Schiff and Willis Maddrey, MD.

Robert M. Bathurst, MD

Emergency Physician Essentia Health-Fargo Custer, SD

Custer, SD— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Robert M. Bathurst is acknowledged as a Distinguished Healthcare Professional for his contributions to the field of Anesthesiology.

Dr. Bathurst began his academic journey at the University of Denver where earned a Bachelor of Science in Zoology. He then attended the University of Colorado, School of Medicine and received a Medical Degree. His internship was completed at the University of Oregon, and he finished an anesthesiology residency at the U.S Naval Medical Center in San Diego, CA.

A Vietnam Veteran, Dr. Bathurst served nine years in the Navy and achieved the rank of Lieutenant Commander. He notably worked on the Apollo Space program regarding zero magnetic field, and as a flight surgeon. While primarily

focused on anesthesiology, the doctor was also trained in emergency and hyperbaric medicine. His current research involves how to treat PTSD using the hyperbaric method and also works in emergency medicine.

Dr. Bathurst works at Essentia HealthFargo in North Dakota treating a wide range of acute conditions or injuries in an emergency room. Essentia Health-Fargo, the doctor notes, is a 133-bed hospital with 10 newborn intensive care beds; a birthing center; and 24-hour emergency room. It is also a Level II Trauma Center and Comprehensive Stroke Center with lifesaving teams where patients can expect a high level of care from friendly knowledgeable providers.

Dedicated to providing the latest advancements in the field, Dr. Bathurst is affiliated with the American Board of Emergency Medicine and is boardcertified in emergency medicine by the American Board of Emergency Medicine (ABEM). The doctor asserts that the ABEM is one of 24 medical specialty certification boards recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties. It certifies

emergency physicians who meet its educational professional and examination standards. Emergency medicine, also known as accident and emergency medicine, is the medical specialty concerned with the care of illnesses or injuries requiring immediate medical attention. An emergency physician works in an emergency department to care for acutely ill or injured patients on an unscheduled basis.

A leader in his field, Dr. Bathurst was awarded the High Standard Award from St. Alexis Hospital in Bismarck, and 2 Golden Stethoscope Awards from Ascension Hospital. Aside from his professional pursuits, the doctor participates in fundraising for the homeless shelter in Rapid City, SD.

Ryon Hennessy, MD, FAAOS

Orthopedic Surgeon Private Practice

Elmhurst, IL

Elmhurst, IL—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Ryon Hennessy, MD, FAAOS is acknowledged as a Most Trusted Healthcare Professional for his contributions to the Field of Orthopedic Surgery.

Dr. Hennessy earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology received from Northwestern University and completed an MD

degree, orthopedic surgery residency, and spinal surgery fellowship at Rush University (Rush Medical College) in Chicago. The doctor is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon.

According to Dr. Hennessy, he sees patients for issues with bones, ligaments, muscles, joints, nerves, and tendons. The doctor specializes in knee replacements and fractures and takes time with each and every patient, putting their needs first. Dr. Hennessy works in a group practice and has worked in this position for more than 23 years. He has worked in the field for more than 32 years.

Dr. Hennessy works in the treatment and rehabilitation of injuries diseases and disorders of the body’s musculoskeletal system. As an orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Hennessy tends to bones, ligaments, muscles, joints, nerves, and tendons. The doctor asserts that an orthopedic surgeon can specialize in certain areas like the

hand, spine, hip, foot and ankle, shoulder and elbow, or the knee.

In his spare time, Dr. Hennessy is an avid outdoorsman and belongs to several hunting organizations. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons and a member of the Foundation Board at Elmhurst Hospital. He would like to dedicate this honor to his father, Mr. Michael Hennessy, and thank him for all his support.

For more information about Dr. Hennessy and his practice, please visit his website at www.eehealth.org/find-a-doctor/h/ hennessy-ryon-m/.

Sampath Kumar Manickam, MD

Rheumatologist

Millennium Physician Group

Venice, FL

Venice, FL—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Sampath Kumar Manickam, MD, is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Life Member for his contributions in the field of Rheumatology.

Dr. Manickam began his scholarship journey at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine where he earned a Medical Degree in 2012. He completed a residency in internal medicine at the

University of Miami Miller School of Medicine in 2015 and his fellowship in rheumatology at Georgia Regents University in 2017. A board-certified rheumatologist in both rheumatology and internal medicine through the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM), Dr. Manickam asserts that the ABIM is a physician-led, non-profit, independent evaluation organization driven by doctors who want to achieve higher standards for better care in a rapidly changing world. Further, rheumatology is a branch of medicine devoted to the diagnosis and treatment of rheumatic diseases and physicians who have undergone formal training in rheumatology and are called rheumatologists. Rheumatologists treat arthritis, autoimmune diseases, and osteoporosis.

Dr. Manickam was drawn to the healthcare profession because he enjoyed science and wanted to help people. Dedicated to providing his patients with high-quality care, the doctor practices at

Millennium Physician Group in Sarasota. He explained that the group was formed in 2008 and has grown into one of the largest comprehensive primary care practices with more than 750 health care providers located throughout Florida. Corporate headquarters are located in Fort Myers, Florida and the group consists of primary care offices; Imaging Centers Lab Services; and Wellness Programs. Dr. Manickam adds that there are also weight management and smoking cessation led by Millennium Physician Group doctors.

Moving forward, Dr. Manickam is excited to start mentoring this summer with a new residency program and hopes to continue growing the Rheumatology practice with Millennium Physician Group. In his spare time, the doctor enjoys boating, fishing, traveling, and spending time with his family.

For more information, please visit his website at www.millenniumphysician.com.

Sara Rubenstein, MD

Pediatric Neurologist

Hackensack University Medical Center

Hoboken, NJ

Hoboken, NJ— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Sara Rubenstein is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her work as a Pediatric Neurologist.

Dr. Rubenstein began her academic journey at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Brain and Cognitive Science. She earned a medical degree from Technion Israel Institute of Technology in 2016. Upon relocating to the United States, she finished a residency in pediatrics in 2016 and a fellowship in Pediatric

Neurology at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School in 2021.

Board Certified in neurology and child neurology through the American Board of Neurology and Psychiatry (ABPN), Dr. Rubenstein notes that the ABPN is a not-for-profit corporation dedicated to serving the professions of psychiatry and neurology. She practices as a general pediatric neurologist, seeing children for a variety of issues such as, seizures; developmental delay; headaches; genetic syndromes; and autism and spectrum disorders.

Working closely with the patient’s families and other physicians to coordinate the best care, Dr. Rubenstein is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Academy of Neurology and the Child Neurology Society. The doctor notes that she is keenly interested in current neurological research and explained that neurology is a branch of medicine dealing with disorders of the nervous system. A child neurologist or pediatric neurologist is a doctor who treats children who have problems with their nervous system. Problems in the

nervous system can start in the brain; spine; nerves; or muscles. These can lead to problems such as seizures; headaches; or developmental delays.

Dedicated to patient and family-centered care, Dr. Rubenstein is currently affiliated with Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey and believes in the importance of a team-approach to treatment. She asserts that her passion is to provide high quality care to children and families while building long-term relationships. “Neurological conditions in children are often complex and require a multidisciplinary approach. Our entire team is dedicated to our patients and their families, their treatment, and supporting them throughout their journey,” noted the doctor.

In addition to her practice, the doctor has published in Stroke and Vascular Neurology for her COVID-related study of stroke in children. Aside from her professional pursuits, Dr. Rubenstein participates and volunteers for community service activities through the MIT Alumni Association.

Scott K. Rineer, MD, MPH Emergency Physician

Manatee Memorial Hospital

Clearwater, FL

Clearwater, FL—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Scott K. Rineer is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Lifetime Member for his contributions to the Medical Field.

Dr. Rineer earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, inoring in Chemistry and Psychology from Allegheny College and completed one year of graduate studies at Georgetown University. He earned a Master of Public Health from the University of South Florida. Dr. Rineer also completed Deep Freeze Antarctica; earned USN/USMC Parachutist Designation; as well as being awarded the Army’s prestigious Expeditionary Field Medical Badge (EFMB). After his completion of a transitional internship at the Naval

Hospital San Diego (NHSD) in 1991. He was assigned as a General Medical Officer at the Recruit Training Command (RTC) in San Diego.

The doctor also completed six months of flight surgery training at the Naval Aerospace Medical Institute (NAMI) in Pensacola Florida prior to reporting to the Second Marine Aircraft Wing MCAS Cherry Point NC as flight surgeon for VMA(AW)-332 VMAQ-3 SOES and later as Group Surgeon MWSG-27. Multiple deployments included a six-month period at the MCAS Iwakuni Japan with the Moondogs VMAQ-3. A mobilization to active duty followed as the Force Surgeon US Marine Corps Forces Central Command (USMARCENT) between 20082011 where Dr. Rineer was responsible for the medical laydown and care for both OIF and OEF conflicts. He notes that he was directly responsible for coordinating the implementation of the Royal Jordanian Medical Services (RJMS) alongside USMC/ USN joint and coalition medical forces. He worked directly for LGENs Joseph F. Dunford Jr. then COMUSMARCENT years prior to the Generals selection as the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (CJCS). During his combat tours, Dr. Rineer rose to the rank of Captain and earned the Combat Action Ribbon.

The doctor is board-certified in emergency medicine by the American Board of Emergency Medicine (ABEM). Dr. Rineer notes that the ABEM is one of 24 medical specialty certification boards recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties.

As an emergency medicine physician, Dr. Rineer asserts that he sees all patients for various issues. These may include trauma, chronic illnesses, heart attacks, and psychiatric issues. The doctor notes that emergency medicine, also known as accident and emergency medicine, is the medical specialty concerned with the care of illnesses or injuries requiring immediate medical attention. An emergency physician works in an emergency department to care for acutely ill or injured patients on an unscheduled basis. He has a breadth of experience having served in the U.S. Navy, where he is a veteran of several campaigns in the Middle East; served as the Force Surgeon US Marine Corps Forces Central Command; and was the Senior Medical Officer aboard the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76).

He is associated with the Fellow of the American Academy of Emergency Medicine; Fellow of the American College of Emergency Physicians.

Victor E. Coba, MD

Critical Care Physician

Tampa General Hospital Tampa, FL

Tampa, FL— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Victor E. Coba is acknowledged as a Distinguished Healthcare Professional for his contributions to the field of Critical Care and Emergency Medicine.

Dr. Coba pursued higher education at Loma Linda University School of Medicine where he received a medical degree. He then completed a residency in emergency medicine at Ascension St. John Hospital and finished a multidisciplinary surgical critical care fellowship at Henry Ford Hospital. Board certified in emergency medicine by the American Board of Emergency Medicine (ABEM), the doctor notes that ABEM is one of 24 medical specialty certification boards recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties.

Highly trained and educated, Dr. Coba is an expert in critical care and emergency medicine, team leading and mentoring. He is dedicated to providing the latest advancements in his field and is recognized as a Fellow of the American College of Emergency Physicians (FACEP).

A renowned and celebrated author, Dr. Coba has published significant work

in multiple peer-reviewed articles particularly focused on ultrasound critical care, sepsis, and cardiac arrest. He has also co-authored two ultrasound books which are available in four languages; taught ultrasound courses and handson skills training throughout the United States and internationally; and has worked as the research director for Ascension Macomb-Oakland Emergency Medicine Department. He is highly regarded for his expertise and currently serves as the Cardiac Surgery ICU medical director; HFH ECMO medical director; and is the Clinical Associate Professor at Wayne State University School of Medicine.

Aside from his professional pursuits, the doctor enjoys playing golf. For more information about Dr. Coba, please visit https://www.linkedin.com/in/victor-coba089b1b23.

Sharona Ross, MD, FACS

Foregut and HPB Surgery

Advent Health

Tampa, FL

Tampa, FL — Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Sharona B. Ross, MD, FACS is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Life Member for her contributions to the Medical field and will be esteemed as the upcoming cover story in our Inner Circle Magazine.

Fulfilling her civic duty, Dr. Ross graduated from high school and then completed two years of mandatory military service in the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). She subsequently began working towards her Medical degree from the University of George Washington College of Medicine in Washington, DC. After she was awarded a Medical degree, she completed her General Surgery residency at the University of South Florida College of Medicine Department of General Surgery in 2006 and was distinguished when awarded the prestigious HPB/ Advanced Gastrointestinal Surgery and Minimally Invasive Surgery Fellowship at USF/Tampa General Hospital in 2007. Capping her educational pursuits, the doctor completed an Endoscopic Gastroenterology Fellowship at the Division of Digestive Disorders and Nutrition Department of Medicine, University of South Florida, in 2008.

A testament to her excellent training, Dr. Ross participates in various committees at AdventHealth Tampa to determine the quality of care delivered. She is also the director of the surgical floor at the hospital, where she works with nurses and the surgical teams to optimize the quality

of care their surgical patients receive. The doctor and her team work with various surgical industries to ensure that their patients are treated with the best and safest surgical technologies. Recognized for her 20 years of extraordinary work in her field, Dr. Ross is a board-certified advanced foregut and HPB and is considered an expert in robotic and single-incision laparoscopic operations for conditions of the esophagus, stomach, small bowel, pancreas, gallbladder, and liver.

Dr. Ross is a leading expert in LaparoEndoscopic Single Site (LESS) Surgery and was one of the first surgeons in the United States to offer that option. She is also one of the few surgeons to offer patients robotic, complex abdominal operations for cancers and serves as the Director of the Advanced GI and HPB Surgery Fellowship at the Digestive Institute, which she notes trains new surgeons to master minimally invasive complex operations.

Dr. Ross is dedicated to keeping abreast of the most state-of-the-art advances in her field and maintains memberships with the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic (SAGES) Robotics Task Force Committee; is Co-Chair of the Technology and Value Assessment Committee, Development Committee, Oncology Committee, and HPB Committee, and is the Treasurer-Elect for the Society of Laparo-endoscopic & Robotic Surgeons (SLS); and is on the Board of Directors. Additionally, she is the chair of the Technology, Innovation & Surgical Standardization SIG Committee; a member of the GERD SIG Committee; Women in MIS SIG Committee; and the RVS Update Committee. Dr. Ross holds the Chair of the Florida Chapter of Women in Surgery; is a member of the Executive Video-Based Education Committee; the Florida Council Committee; and the Executive Video Committee of the American College of Surgeons (ACS).

Dr. Ross is highly sought after for her expertise and is a distinguished member of the Surgical Innovations Committee of

the Americas Hepato Pancreato-Biliary Association (AHPBA); the HPB Program Committee; the Research Committee; and the Fellowship Council of the Society for Surgery of the Alimentary Tract (SSAT). She is the second vice president of the Southeastern Surgical Congress (SESC) and a member of the Council and Executive Committee where she is the President-Elect for SRS 2025.

In addition to her medical responsibilities, Dr. Ross is also a reviewer on the editorial boards of the Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Research; Journal of Gastrointestinal; ISRN Minimally Invasive Surgery; Surgical Endoscopy; Journal of the Society Of Laparoendscopic Surgeons; Annals Of Surgery; Artificial Intelligence Surgery; The American Surgeon; and Annals of Surgical Oncology.

Dr. Ross is regarded as a dynamic speaker and has been a moderator, presenter, and keynote speaker at more than 155 national and international events. She has contributed to 155 peer-reviewed publications; 55 news articles; 21 TV news reports; and has more than 200 oral presentations and 165 operative video presentations.

The doctor is meritoriously named a Patient Preferred Surgeon Representing the State of Florida for 2020 and notes that her love for taking care of people has played a significant role in her career success by consistently embracing new surgical technology and innovation that help improve the quality of care she delivers to her patients.

In her spare time, the doctor enjoys spending time with family; skeet shooting; horseback riding; her dog, Roger, a Rhodesian Ridgeback; and playing golf. Dr. Ross wishes to acknowledge the support of her mentor, Dr. Alexander Rosemurgy, and thanks her dear children, who are her inspirations: Eran, Nicole, Stephanie, and Justin.

Stephen Moore, DO, FACC, FHRS Clinical Cardiac Electrophysiologist

The Medical Center at Bowling Green & Commonwealth Regional Specialty Hospital

Avon Lake, OH

Avon Lake, OH— Prominently circulated in The Inner Circle, Stephen L. Moore is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the Medical Field.

Dr. Moore earned a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Mississippi and a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine

degree from the Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences College of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed a residency in internal medicine at Mount Clemens General Hospital in 1987 and his fellowships in cardiovascular disease and clinical cardiac electrophysiology at Cleveland Clinic Foundation in 1990 and 1992 respectively. Dr. Moore is a dual fellowship-trained and triple board-certified clinical cardiac electrophysiologist.

Dr. Moore is board-certified in internal medicine; cardiovascular disease; and clinical cardiac electrophysiology by the American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine (AOBIM) and has worked in the field for more than 40 years. According to the doctor, the AOBIM is an organization that provides board certification to qualified Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine who specialize in the prevention diagnosis and treatment of disease in adults.

Dr. Moore is a Fellow of the American College of Cardiology (FACC) and a Fellow of the Heart Rhythm Society (FHRS). He notes that clinical cardiac electrophysiology is a branch of the medical specialty of cardiology that is concerned with the study and treatment of rhythm disorders of the heart. A clinical cardiac electrophysiologist or cardiac EP is a healthcare provider who treats heart rhythm problems. A cardiac EP is a type of cardiologist.

Dr. Moore has been the recipient of the Patients Choice Award (2012 2011) and Compassionate Doctor Recognition (2015 2013 2012 2011) and is a Vitals Preferred Provider.

Dr. Moore is considered an expert in electrical systems, defibrillators, pacemakers, and heart failures. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his family, cooking, and travel.

Terence N. Mukonje, MD Hospitalist

IU Health Southern Indiana Physicians & IU Health Bloomington Hospital Westerville, OH

Westerville, OH— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Terence N. Mukonje, MD is acknowledged as a Distinguished Healthcare Professional for his contributions to the Field of Internal Medicine.

Dr. Mukonje began his educational journey at the University of North Carolina in Charlotte where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer. Working for a year as a computer consultant, the doctor attended the Medical College of Wisconsin in 2011 where he received a Medical Doctor degree. He capped his

scholarship completing a residency in internal medicine at the Medical College of Wisconsin and their affiliated hospitals. Board-certified in internal medicine, Dr. Mukonje is a hospitalist at IU Health Southern Indiana Physicians and on staff at IU Health Bloomington Hospital. According to the doctor, part of IU Health Southern Indiana Physicians is a multi-specialty physician group based in Bloomington Indiana and is dedicated to providing quality care to south central Indiana. He notes that the mission of IU Health Bloomington Hospital is to improve the health of patients and community through innovation and excellence in care education research and service.

A leader in his field, Dr. Mukonje holds licenses to practice medicine in the states of Maine, Wisconsin, Indiana, Minnesota, South Carolina, and Ohio. He is affiliated with Good Samaritan Hospital-Vincennes; Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital; Northern Light Maine Coast Hospital; Northern Light Blue Hill Hospital; and Northern Light Inland Hospital. The doctor notes that hospital medicine is a medical specialty that exists in some countries as a branch of family

medicine or internal medicine dealing with the care of acutely ill hospitalized patients. He explained that hospitalists improve care for hospitalized patients and manage day-to-day care and provide prompt and complete attention to all patient care needs including diagnosis treatment and the performance of medical procedures (within their scope of practice).

Dedicated to providing the latest improvements in his field, the doctor is affiliated with American College of Physicians; Society of Hospital Medicine; and AMA. Dr. Mukonje also mentors’ young people who have a desire to enter medicine as a career.

Aside from his professional pursuits, Dr. Mukonje is also active in his church, the Vineyard Church of Columbus, Ohio. He would like to dedicate this honor to his parents, Adeline Ndimasa, and in loving memory of his father, Manasses Ndimasa. Dr. Mukonje has been married to Mrs. Solie Mukonje for 10 years and they have 3 children.

Susan J. Seman, DO, FACOS, FACS, CWS

Osteopathic Surgeon

The Dr. Susan Seman Solution

West Bloomfield Township, MI

West Bloomfield Township, MI—

Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Sarah Seman is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Healthcare Professional for her contributions to the fields of General and Trauma Surgery and Wound Care.

Dr. Seman began her educational journey at Michigan State University where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She then attended the University of Osteopathic Medicine and Health Sciences in Des Moines, Iowa where she received a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree. The doctor completed general surgery residency at Botsford Hospital and a fellowship in trauma surgery at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit.

Board certified in general and trauma surgery and wound care by the American

Osteopathic Board of Surgery (AOBS), Dr. Seman notes that the AOBS is an organization that provides board certification to qualified Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine who specialize in the use of surgery to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. She is also certified as a wound specialist by the American Board of Wound Management.

According to the doctor, she uses a holistic approach, treating the whole patient, and also provides esthetic services such as Botox injections and facial and body contouring. Her responsibilities include making rounds in the hospital with medical students and residents. A leader in her field, Dr. Seman has extensive experience in the fields of wound care and cosmetics and is the Owner & Operator of The Dr. Susan Seman Solution, located just south of Orchard Lake in West Bloomfield Township Michigan.

Recognized as a first-choice healthcare provider, the team at Dr. Susan Seman Solution provides patients with impactful lasting solutions for wound care, surgical needs, and comprehensive skin and body treatments. Dr. Seman notes that they are committed to inspiring patients to feel like their best selves, delivering the finest and most comprehensive care available today.

Dr. Seman was motivated to begin offering cosmetic procedures, such as Botox, when she realized that she could treat both the inside of patient as a surgeon

and also the outside to improve wellness and confidence. What began as a simple certification in Botox treatments, her services have grown to include injectables, lasers, lights, and spa treatments.

A talented practitioner, Dr. Seman has continued to expand her practices to include osteopathic surgery at hospitals in the West Bloomfield Township area. Highly respected among her peers, Dr. Seman has long-standing relationships with other local practitioners in the community and hospitals where she practices. She often provides guidance in good nutrition, a healthy diet, and regular physical activity to keep patients looking and feeling healthy inside and out.

The doctor is dedicated to providing the latest advancements in her fields and is a member of many professional organizations, including fellowship status in the American College of Surgeons (FACS) and the American College of Osteopathic Surgeons (FACOS), as well as a member of the American Osteopathic Association.

Aside from her professional pursuits, Dr. Seman volunteers her spare time with D.L.I.V.E (Detroit Life is Valuable Everyday), which works to end violence in the city. The doctor would like to dedicate this honor to her mentor, John Parmly, DO, and also in memory of mentors Lee Silverman, DO, and Farouk Obeid, MD.

Tony L. Williams

Owner

DYNOX LLC

Newport News, VA

Newport News, VA— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Tony L. Williams is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the

fields of Mental Health, Life Coaching, and the Vocation of Barber Shop Services.

Mr. Williams began his academic journey at Christopher Newport University where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 1999. He then attended Old Dominion University in 2004 where he completed master’s degree coursework and later earned a graduate certificate. A Renaissance man, Mr. Williams is also a Certified Life Coach with the World Coach Institute and a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor. His business, DYNOX, LLC, is licensed by the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services.

A leader in his numerous fields, Mr. Williams is the owner and operator of DYNOX, LLC, a business that is dedicated to the counseling of adolescents and families with intensive in-home mental health services. With more than 25 years in the mental health business, Mr. Williams branched out into two different fields, opening Beechmont Barber Shop in 2009; life coaching of which he boasts a certification in Life Coaching with the World Coach Institute and is a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor; and marketing services.

Aside from his professional pursuits, Mr. Williams has been a member of Kiwanis International for more than 15 years.

Thomas A. Paron, DDS, MS Orthodontist Orthodontics Specialists

Brighton, MI

Brighton, MI—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Thomas A. Paron, DDS, MS is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the field of Orthodontics.

Dr. Paron earned a Bachelor of Science with a double major in Biochemistry

and Mathematics in 2015 from Alma College and received a DDS degree from the University of Michigan, School of Dentistry in 2019. He earned an MS in orthodontics from the University of Detroit Mercy in 2021 and completed his board certification in orthodontics through the American Board of Orthodontists.

Dr. Paron practices orthodontics in Grand Blanc, Clarkston, and Lapeer, MI and provides comprehensive orthodontic treatments for both adults and children. He uses both traditional metal wires and brackets as well as ceramic brackets, if a more aesthetic look is desired. Dr. Paron is also trained in Invisalign as well as other clear aligner methods that are available for orthodontic treatment.

According to Dr. Paron, before deciding on the proper treatment options for each patient, he must recognize various

characteristics of a malocclusion or dentofacial growth abnormality, define the nature of the problem, including the etiology or cause, and design a treatment strategy based on the specific needs and desires of each patient. He communicates with his patients, giving them several options for treatment, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of each, to assist the patient and their family in deciding the proper course of treatment.

Dr. Paron is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA), the Michigan Dental Association (MDA), the American Association of Orthodontics (AAO), and the Michigan Association of Orthodontics (MAO-Detroit chapter).

The doctor would like to thank his wife, Dr. Kennedy Paron, as well as his parents, Nick and Julie Paron, for all their love and support.

Zachary P. Englert, DO, FACS

Trauma and General Surgeon and Trauma Medical Director

Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital – New Brunswick & Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset

New Brunswick, NJ

New Brunswick, NJ—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Zachary P. Englert, DO, FACS, is acknowledged as a Distinguished Healthcare Professional for his contributions to the Trauma and General Surgery Fields.

Dr. Englert began his educational journey at Pennsylvania State University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in pre-medical studies, minoring in biology. He then studied at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and graduated with his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree

in 2009. He capped his scholarship by completing a residency in general surgery at Vidant Medical Center/East Carolina University in 2015 and a fellowship in surgical critical care and acute care surgery at the University of Maryland Medical Center in 2017.

Recognized for his expertise, the doctor is board-certified in general surgery and surgical critical care by the American Board of Surgery (ABS) and notes that ABS is an organization that provides board certification to qualified physicians who specialize in the use of surgery to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. Acute care surgery, he explained, is a surgical specialty that focuses on the treatment of time-sensitive surgical pathology of the abdominal contents, including the esophagus, stomach, small bowel, colon, liver, pancreas, gallbladder, appendix, and other body systems. Acute care surgeons follow the patient through critical care and surgical recovery all the way to outpatient care.

Dr. Englert specializes in both operative and non-operative management of lifethreatening traumatic injuries. Known for his compassionate care, he is currently a leading trauma and general surgeon at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital

– New Brunswick and Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital - Somerset. He also serves as an Assistant Professor within the Division of Acute Care Surgery at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and practices surgery in both New Jersey and Missouri. He is also affiliated with Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, Barnes-Jewish Hospital, and SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital.

A testament to his proficiency in the surgical field, Dr. Englert has authored four publications, more than 50 citations, and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He is also a member of the Eastern Association for the Association of Trauma; the Excelsior Society; and the New Jersey Committee on Trauma.

In addition to Dr. Englert’s excellence in the medical field, he proudly served four years of active duty in the United States Air Force and is currently a Lieutenant Colonel serving with the Missouri National Guard. He is a veteran of the conflict in Afghanistan and serves as an instructor for the Center for Sustainment of Trauma and Readiness Skills (C-STARS), which is an Air Force trauma training platform designed to maintain the trauma readiness of Air Force medical personnel.

Todd Ochs, MD, FAAP

Pediatrician

Ravenswood Pediatrics

Chicago, IL

Chicago, IL—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Todd Ochs is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Healthcare Professional for his contributions to the Field of Pediatrics.

Dr. Ochs earned a degree from the University of New Orleans and a Medical Degree from the Loyola Stritch School of Medicine. He completed his residency in pediatrics at Cook County and UIC Hospitals. The doctor attained board certification in pediatrics through the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP) and notes that the mission of the ABP is to advance child health by certifying pediatricians who meet standards of excellence and are committed to continuous learning and improvement.

Dr. Ochs is in private practice at Ravenswood Pediatrics, which has been recognized as a Center of Excellence by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services. His office provides comprehensive examinations to foster children after placement and he serves as the pediatrician for an adolescent group home.

Dr. Ochs has been working with adoptive families since 1997 when he adopted his first daughter from China. He has seen over a thousand internationally adopted children in his practice and adoption clinic, has also completed thousands more referral reviews, and has spoken to thousands of adoptive parents. He has adopted three more special needs Chinese daughters and has become a leading expert in adoption medicine.

The doctor is a founding member of the American Academy of Pediatrics Section on Adoption and Foster Care and has served on its executive committee for six years. He has advocated for adopted and fostered children in public and private schools concerning adoption health and mental health issues, including Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. He is also an advisory board member of Illinois NOFAS and has spoken at several conferences and hospital grand rounds on FASD.

The doctor is recognized as a respected author and speaker on adoption medicine

and has written articles for several adoption publications, including the AAP Illinois Chapter Newsletter and the Child’s Doctor of Children’s Memorial Hospital. He has spoken at international conferences, including the International Pediatric Association in Beijing as well as at numerous adoption conferences and agency educational sessions.

According to Dr. Ochs, pediatrics is the branch of medicine that involves the medical care of infant’s children and adolescents. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends individuals be under pediatric care up to the age of 21. Pediatricians provide medical care to people ranging in age from newborns to young adults. They are trained to examine, diagnose, and treat children with a wide variety of injuries and illnesses through all of their developmental stages as they grow and mature.

Dr. Ochs is fluent in both English and Spanish and is considered an expert in pediatrics, foster care, adoption, and special needs. His mentors are Dr. Ira Rosenthal and Dr. Andrew Griffin. In his spare time, the doctor enjoys spending time with his family, carpentry, and walking his dog. He would like to dedicate this honor to his wife, five daughters, and grandchildren, and thank them for their love and support.

Supriya Jay Doshi

Founder

VDO Solutions LLC

Chappaqua, NY

Chappaqua, NY—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Supriya Jay Doshi is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Healthcare Professional for her contributions to the Field of Dentistry.

Ms. Doshi began her academic journey at Maharashtra University of Health Sciences in 2007 where she completed a Bachelor of Dental Surgery. She also began her clinical practice the same year and earned a Master’s degree in Public Health in Epidemiology and a Master of Business Administration in Healthcare from George Washington University.

Working in the field for more than 15 years, Ms. Doshi is a health care technology innovator and founder of VDO Solutions, LLC. She is considered an expert in both clinical and administrative leadership roles and specializes in helping patients and providers leverage emerging technologies to better access care. She established VDO Solutions LLC in 2018 as a way to merge her industry background

with emerging trends in healthcare technology, and she continues to lead the company in offering clinicians and industry leader’s strategic solutions.

Dedicated to providing the latest innovations in the field, Ms. Doshi is a fellow of the Academy for Healthcare Management and a member of America’s Health Insurance Plans and the Digital Medicine Society.

William J. Dunn, MD

Vitreo-Retinal Surgeon

Central Florida Retina

Port Orange, FL

Port Orange, FL—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, William J. Dunn is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the field of Ophthalmology.

Dr. Dunn earned a Bachelor of Science from the United States Air Force Academy, where he graduated in the top 10% of his class and received a Medical degree from Georgetown University, School of Medicine. The doctor completed a rotating internship at Andrews Air Force Base in Washington DC., and finished a residency in ophthalmology at Wilford Hall in San Antonio, TX. His surgical retina fellowship was completed at Retina Associates of Cleveland/ Case Western Reserve. Dr. Dunn served 30 years in the United States Air Force, where he was aeromedical support during Desert Storm, and the Chief of Ophthalmology at Andrews Air Force Base. He achieved the rank of Colonel.

After residency training and twelve years of active duty in the Air Force, Dr. Dunn completed a fellowship in vireo-retinal disease and surgery at Retina Associates of Cleveland Mt. Sinai Medical Center/Case Western University in Cleveland Ohio. He is an ophthalmologist specializing in the treatment of macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and vascular

occlusive disease and notes that he is able to cure his patients utilizing lasers and retinal injections.

Dr. Dunn is part of the team of professionals at Central Florida Retina operating out of the office in Daytona Beach, Florida. He joined the practice in January of 2023 after being a part of Florida Retina Institute for more than 31 years, from July of 1991 until December of 2022. According to Dr. Dunn, since its opening in 1979, Central Florida Retina has been devoted to diagnosing and treating diseases of the retina macula and vitreous. The highly-trained boardcertified ophthalmologists specialize in diabetic retinopathy macular degeneration vascular occlusive diseases and more. The doctor is board-certified in ophthalmology by the American Board of Ophthalmology (ABO). He notes that the ABO is an independent non-profit organization responsible for certifying ophthalmologists in the United States of America.

Dr. Dunn is affiliated with Halifax Health Medical Center of Port Orange, Halifax Health Medical Center, and is licensed to practice in Florida. The doctor asserts that ophthalmology is a branch of medicine and surgery which deals with the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders. Ophthalmologists are experts in the disease’s functions and anatomy of the eye. They may provide routine care such as vision testing as well as prescribe and fit eyeglasses or contact lenses. However, ophthalmologists are also surgeons. They repair traumatic injuries to the eye and perform cataract glaucoma and corneal surgery.

Dr. Dunn has been named Top Doctor by Castle-Connolly for twenty-five years in a row. He has also received the Presidents Volunteer Service Award from EyeCare America and the Credential

of CHE Certified Healthcare Executive from the American College of HealthCare Executives in 1995. For years of continuous and uninterrupted service, he was awarded the Life Fellow Award by the American Academy of Ophthalmology in 2017 and achieved fellowship status with the American College of Surgeons and the American Society of Retina Specialists.

Dr. Dunn soloed a Cessna 150 at age 16 and now holds an FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) and Single Pilot Jet Rating with over 4500 hours of accident-free flight time achieving the NBAA Safety Award (National Business Aircraft Association). He also holds the USPA D Expert Rating, which is the top license in skydiving with over 255 jumps. The top FAA MASTER PILOT Wright Brothers Award was given to him in October of 2021. Dr. Dunn was promoted to the rank of full Colonel USAF at 19 years of service and later finished his career with more than 30 years of active-duty guard and reserve service to our country.

Dr. Dunn has volunteered on seven third world eye missions (three to Punjab India, three to Dominican Republic, and one to Grenada). He has also been a principal investigator on multiple national clinical studies in VR research. In his spare time, Dr. Dunn enjoys biking, flying, skiing, and traveling the world. He is the very proud father of four adult children and seven grandchildren.

Dr. Dunn would like to dedicate this to his mentor during fellowship, Tom Rice, MD, and in loving memory of his father, William J. Dunn, Sr., MD.

For more information, please visit his website at https://www.linkedin.com/ in/william-j-dunn-md-facs-fasrsb873ba141/.

QUIET QUITTING

What Does It Mean and What Can Employers Do About It?

Quiet Quitting is a term that has made headlines around the world in the last few years, making its debut in the early 2020s. Bryan Creely, a Nashvillebased corporate recruiter, is credited with creating the phrase and releasing it to the business world in a video posted to TikTok and YouTube on March 4, 2022. Creely states that it refers to employees doing the minimum requirements of one’s job and putting in no more effort, time, or enthusiasm than absolutely necessary. A Gallup survey in 2022 suggested that at least half of the U.S. workforce consists of quiet quitters, more than 80 million employees, but many have questioned if it’s a real trend or just a new name for worker dissatisfaction.

Harvard Business Review published an article in September 2022 that noted “quiet quitting” is more closely related to employees fulfilling their primary responsibilities, but not as eager to engage in citizenship behaviors, such as staying late, showing up early, or attending non-mandatory meetings. At the beginning of this trend, some managers were willing

to overlook this behavior due to a tight labor market. However, others have dismissed those who choose to engage in quiet quitting with “quiet firing,” another buzz phrase that is becoming popular. Quiet firing is defined as making a job so unrewarding that the employee will feel compelled to resign. In contrast to quiet firing, Harvard Business Review has suggested that bosses get tough with quiet quitters, while others may need to lighten up.

Overall, these “new” terminologies reflect what some are deeming a deep dissatisfaction with the work environment, which should have employers looking for the following signs among employees, according to HQ Hire:

1. Change in Attitude—employers may be able to detect a change in an employee’s attitude from being a “team player” to not engaging with peers as often and a downturn in productivity. HQ Hire asserts that employers should take note of this behavior and look at how they may be contributing to this change. Are they being less

enthusiastic during the work day? Do they give positive reinforcement for a job well-done, or is good work just the minimum of what is expected?

2. Chronic Pessimism—employees who are actively “quiet quitting” may spread their negativity to others. In fact, this is considered toxic behavior, and the manager’s best chance to nip it in the bud is having a conversation with the employee being careful not to match their toxicity with negative feedback. Some employees may just want recognition that they are valued;

3. Negative Feedback from Coworkers, Customers, or Clients—Negative feedback from peers, while valid and concerning, is not as damaging as negative feedback from customers or clients. In the latter, the quiet quitter may be affecting the company’s reputation and this, of course, should not be tolerated. Communicating with the client and ensuring them that the attitude or information they have experienced or heard is not the culture of the company is critical. HQ Hire suggests discussing the behavior with the quiet quitter and give them a clean slate to begin again. That employee was once a contributing, valued member of the team, so giving them the benefit of the doubt is critical.

4. Refraining from Performing Certain Tasks—An employee who used to “go the extra mile” who is now doing the bare minimum is a marked change in behavior. HQ Hire asserts that while a discussion with the employee may be necessary, creating a “culture of fun” and relaxation backed by productivity and infectious hard work may just do the trick.

5. Lack of Care for Their Job in General—These employees are often characterized as being “only there for the paycheck” and may have outright displays of disrespect for the company. Some of the actions a manager may notice include:

• They fail to complete opening and/or closing procedures in the proper way.

• They don’t keep their workspace clean, wellkept, and organized.

• They do not follow company policy and procedure with important operational tasks, preferring their own methods.

• They answer the phone with a negative or devilmay-care attitude.

• They are not helpful to customers or take a standoffish mindset with coworkers.

• They are wasteful with company spending or essential supplies that are necessary for daily operations;

Employers are advised to build a culture that encourages performance combined with ambition to correct these behaviors;

6. Arriving Late to Work or Leaving Work Early— Some employees who are “quiet quitters” may display these behaviors while some of the best employees may be chronically late, but give their best performance when at work. The difference is if the tardy behavior is accompanied by a change in behavior, also. This sends a clear message that the employee would rather be somewhere else than at work. In this situation, HQ Hire notes that this may be the time for reprimands to ensure this kind of behavior doesn’t rub off on the other employees

7. Quiet Quitting Continues Regardless of Previous Efforts—Finally, if the aforementioned remedies have been tried with no success, this may be the time when the manager has to reprimand the employee. HQ Hire does assert, however, that the reprimand should match the level of quiet quitting. Someone in the beginning stages of quiet quitting may not require a formal reprimand. A repeated pattern, however, may require a reprimand equal to the level of behavior. Sometimes reminding the employee that this subject has already been discussed once or more times may be enough to stop the behavior. However, it may be necessary to inform them that if they don’t start producing in an effective and efficient manner, specific punishments will be implemented.

In closing, the quiet quitter trend may be present in the workplace today, but many employees are able to overcome this behavior and attitude and return to the productive, valued employee they used to be. A little effort on the part of the manager is critical to keeping the work environment pleasant and productive for all.

Brett

Partner

E. Nelson

Plews, Shadley, Racher & Braun LLP

Indianapolis, IN

Indianapolis, IN—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Brett Nelson is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the Field of Law.

Mr. Nelson graduated from Bloomington High School South in 1989. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology in 1992 from Indiana University in 1992 and earned a Doctor of Jurisprudence degree from Full Stack Squad in 1999.

Mr. Nelson has been a partner with Plews, Shadley, Racher, & Braun LLP in Indianapolis Indiana since 2005. In this role, he works in environmental, commercial, and trademark litigation. He was previously an associate with the same firm from 2000 to 2004 and was a law clerk with Plews, Shadley, Racher, & Braun LLP from 1999 to 2000. Mr. Nelson began his career in 1992 as the owner of The Smiling Serpent in Bloomington Indiana where he remained until 1994.

Mr. Nelson was named to Indiana Super Lawyers in Environmental Litigation from 2014 to 2015. He attributes his success to the culture of his firm, which involves Mr. Nelson and his colleagues working to find the most qualified among their team to address specific challenges and problems they face.

Mr. Nelson has been the president of Paws and Think Inc. since 2015. He notes that his nonprofit organization is a volunteercentric community organization focused on at-risk communities which partners

with schools; detention centers; youth agencies; humane societies; and shelters. Paws and Think Inc. seeks to improve lives through relationships between humans and dogs.

Mr. Nelson is associated with AAPA, PAGH, and IPAEA. He supports and is president of Paws and Think, Inc, since 2015. In his spare time, Mr. Nelson enjoys snakes, dogs, animals, and spending time with his family.

Harry H. Kazakian

Founder

President Chief Executive Officer

USA Express Legal & Investigate Services

Woodland Hills, CA

Woodland Hills, CA—Harry H. Kazakian is being recognized by Continental Who’s Who as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions in legal and investigative services.

Mr. Kazakian earned a private investigator’s certificate in 2001 from the School of Private Investigations. He was certified in phlebotomy in 1983 by the California Association of Paramedical Schools, and in 1982 he was certified as

an emergency medical technician by the Associated Technical College. Mr. Kazakian is a certified criminal defense investigator through the California Association of Licensed Investigators.

He has experience working as a high exposure claims adjuster for the Automobile Club of Southern California. He worked as an emergency medical technician in Glendale, California and Los Angeles County from 1982 to 1997.

Mr. Kazakian is the founder, president, and chief executive officer of USA Express Legal & Investigative Services and also serves as a private investigator and independent claims adjuster/ Investigator. According to Mr. Kazakian, he oversees day to day operations, directs investigations, oversees and reviews reports to determine future actions on each case, determines the cause of wrongful deaths, and ensures justice for victims.

Mr. Kazakian has published articles in Forbes Magazine and has been recognized

for providing education and guidance to clerical support by the Consumer Attorneys Association of Los Angeles. He attributes his success to his dependability, hard work, honesty, and willingness to always make himself accessible to clients. In the future, Mr. Kazakian plans to merge his business with a larger company. He also hopes to train and mentor more investigators to preserve his legacy.

Mr. Kazakian would like to give special thanks to his wife, Gina Kazakian, with whom he has been married 30 years.

James R. Cooper Attorney

Morrow Gordon & Byrd Granville, OH

Granville, OH— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, James R. Cooper is acknowledged as a Distinguished Attorney for his contributions to the field of Business Law.

Mr. Cooper is an attorney working at Morrow Gordon & Byrd, a private law firm, in Newark, Ohio where he has served a regional population for more than 51 years. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame and a Doctor of Jurisprudence from

Ohio State University. He specializes in Corporations Law, Taxation Law, and Insurance Law.

A partner in the firm, Mr. Cooper offers his expertise in Business Law; Profit & Nonprofit Organizations; Oil & Gas Law; Business Planning; Probate; Federal; State and Local Tax Practice; Estate Planning; and Real Estate Law. The firm was established in 1993 and offers personalized attention to their clients. The talented team of attorneys represent various types of clients, including individuals; corporations; non-profit; limited liability companies; and sole proprietorships.

A leader in his field, Mr. Cooper was admitted to practice law before the

Supreme Court of Ohio and was admitted to practice law in Ohio in 1972. Mr. Cooper asserts that he has the ability to practice before the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit; the United States District Court for the Southern District of Ohio; and the United States Court of Military Appeals. He is a member of the Ohio Bar Association and Licking County Bar Association.

Aside from his professional pursuits, Mr. Cooper is a former active duty and a reserve United States Naval Officer.

John R. Pitts

Founding Chair

Texas Star Alliance

Austin, TX

Austin, TX—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, John R. Pitts is acknowledged as a Most Trusted Attorney for his contributions to the field of Leadership Management.

Mr. Pitts began his educational journey at Southern Methodist University where he earned a Bachelor of Science, an MBA, and a Jurisprudence Degree. He capped his scholarship at Virginia Theological Seminary where he received a Master of Divinity degree.

A proven expert in Leadership Management, Mr. Pitts served as the general counsel to former Lt. Governor Bob Bullock and as chaplain to the Texas Senate. In his position with Lt. Governor Bullock, Mr. Pitts directed the effort to draft and pass the historic

water legislation, SB 1, which has been a highlight of his work. After much success in this venue, the attorney formed Texas Star Alliance where he develops and stewards’ legislation on both the state and national levels.

With more than 25 years of experience, Mr. Pitts has successfully represented clients from a broad range of industries including numerous Fortune 500 companies; major trade associations; and national nonprofits. Known for his tenacity, the attorney has clients representing a cross section of legislative issues including transportation; water; health; education (public and higher); technology; elections; cannabis; broadband; logistics; finance; tax; banking; agriculture; affordable housing; appropriations; pensions; criminal justice; juvenile justice; ethics; insurance; gaming; and alternative energy.

Adding to his stellar career experiences, Mr. Pitts has served as partner at Vinson & Elkins LLP; as senior counsel at Akin Gump Hauer & Feld LLP; providing counsel to a Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice; and holding several clergy positions with The Episcopal Diocese of Texas. Aside from his professional pursuits, Mr. Pitts is also a strong supporter of civic causes and serves on many organization boards, including the board of the Texas Association of

Business; board chair of Big Brothers Big Sisters Greater Houston; board vicechair of Big Brothers Big Sisters Lone Star; board of March of Dimes Houston; board of Park Plaza Hospital and Medical Center; founding board member of Houston City Hall Fellows; board of The Hope Center Houston; board of St. John’s School in Houston; board and co-Founder of Trinity Episcopal School of Austin; board and co-Founder of LIFE Houston; board of Virginia Theological Seminary in Alexandria, Virginia; board of the Episcopal Seminary of the Southwest in Austin, Texas; board member of UTHealth Development Board and as chair of its Government Relations Committee and chair of its PAC Committee; and board members of several charitable foundation.

As a testament to his astonishing career, Mr. Pitts has been recognized as the 5th most influential lobbyist in Austin by the online publication, Capitol Inside; named one of Texas’ Top-Rated Lawyers from 2014 thru 2020 by Martindale-Hubbell; and selected by his peers as one of the Best Lawyers in the United States from 2011 thru 2020. He was also selected as Board Member of the Year in 2010 by Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Aside from his professional pursuits, Mr. Pitts and his wife live in both Houston and Austin and they have two sons. The attorney would like to dedicate this honor to his parents, Roy & Agnes Pitts.

Johnathan J. Klein

Partner

Parlatore Law Group

Baltimore, MD and Bridgeport, CT

Baltimore, MD and Bridgeport, CT — Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Jonathan Klein is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional 2023 for his contributions to the Field of Law.

Mr. Klein pursued higher education at Yeshiva University in New York where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, magna cum laude, in 1977. In addition to earning a Doctor of Jurisprudence at Fordham University School of Law in New York City in 1980, the attorney is a Distinguished Military Graduate of the Army ROTC program at Fordham University. The attorney capped his scholarship by graduating from the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College.

A leader in the field, Mr. Klein is licensed to practice law in Connecticut, New York, and Maryland and may also practice before

the Supreme Court of the United States; the U.S. Courts of Appeals for the 2nd, 5th, and 11th Circuits; the U.S. District Court for the Districts of Connecticut, Maryland, and D.C.; the Southern and Eastern Districts of New York; and the Southern District of Georgia; the U.S. Tax Court; the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces; and the U.S. Army Court of Criminal Appeals. The attorney specializes in commercial litigation and has focused his practice on a wide variety of other areas of the law.

Mr. Klein represents corporate and individual plaintiffs and defendants in state and federal courts and also briefs and argues appeals before the Connecticut Appellate Court and Supreme Court and the U. S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit. Prior to joining Parlatore Law Group, LLP as a partner in 2020, he maintained a private solo practice, Jonathan J. Klein, Attorney and Counselor at Law, in Bridgeport, Connecticut between 1995 and 2020 and was an associate and principal at two local law firms in Connecticut between 1987 and 1995. He was also Senior Special Counsel for the Department of Enforcement of the New York Stock Exchange from 1984 to 1987 and was a trial defense counsel for the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps between 1981 and 1984.

In addition to his commercial work, Mr. Klein practices general civil litigation, white-collar and general criminal

defense, and tax litigation. He has resolved issues regarding state and federal administrative law; securities law; labor and employment law; zoning law; and military law.

Alongside his professional practice, Mr. Klein developed and taught military criminal law and law of war courses for the Army Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program at the University of Connecticut. He also served on a disenrollment board and was an investigating officer. He later retired as a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve after serving on active duty and as a reservist in the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps from 1981 to 2004.

A civic-minded leader, Mr. Klein served on the Board of Fire Commissioners of the City of Bridgeport from 2004 to 2014 and as its President from 2013 to 2014. He also served as a board member of Hillel Academy in Fairfield, Connecticut; is on the board of the Pikesville-Greenspring Community Coalition in Baltimore County, Maryland; is a member of the Veterans and Military Affairs Section of the Connecticut Bar Association and serves on the Section’s Executive Committee; and is a member of the Greater Bridgeport Bar Association.

Reflecting on his career, Mr. Klein attributes much of his success in law to listening to his clients and crafting costeffective, realistic solutions for them.

Mr. Alves graduated from McLane High School in 1998 and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications and Music in 2002 from Chapman University. He graduated from the Glendale University College of Law with a Doctor of Jurisprudence in law in 2009.

Attorney

The Alves Law Office

Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles, CA—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Steven J. Alves is acknowledged as a Most Trusted Attorney for his contributions to the field of Workers Compensation and Employment Law.

Mr. Alves has worked at the Alves Law Office since 2019. He focuses his practice in worker’s compensation and employment law with specific experience representing employers. In his current role, he manages approximately 150 worker’s compensation cases and manages his staff at the Alves Law Office.

Mr. Alves was a law clerk and attorney with Putters & Associates from 2009 to 2010, an attorney with Floyd, Skeren & Kelly LLP from 2010 to 2011, and an

attorney at the Law Office of Steven J. Alves from 2011 to 2017. Mr. Alves was named a Top Contributor by Avvo in 2013, 2014 and 2015.

Mr. Alves is a member of the American Bar Association and attributes his success to his background and training as a claims examiner, as well as his work ethic and hardworking team. Among his accomplishments, he is proud of getting fraudulent cases dismissed and seeing victims get compensation in legitimate cases. In the coming years, Mr. Alves hopes to see his firm grow and employ more associate attorneys.

He would like to dedicate this honor with special thanks to his sister, Monica Alves, who is a part of the firm, and Attorney Jake Jacobson.

Steven J. Alves

Michael H. Schwartzberg Attorney

The Roach Firm

Baton Rouge, LA

Baton Rouge, LA—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Michael H. Schwartzberg is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions in the fields of Personal Injury Law and Music.

A Renaissance Man, Mr. Schwartzberg holds mastery in many fields, including music and law. Highly educated, the attorney earned a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Music at Louisiana State University, Boston University, and

a Doctor of Jurisprudence degree at Paul M. Hebert Law Center at LSU. He is a professional musician and a successful attorney specializing in personal injury law.

With more than 30 years of experience in the field, Mr. Schwartzberg began the practice of law with the firm of McHale, Bufkin, and Dees in 1989 in Lake Charles. Advancing quickly throughout his career, the attorney and colleague formed Vamvoras and Schwartzberg in 1998. This milestone was followed with the formation of Vamvoras Schwartzberg & Hinch in 2010.

Adding to his extraordinary foundation in law, Mr. Schwartberg excelled as a clerk for the Louisiana Court of Appeals, Third Circuit for two years and followed this experience working with Honorable James T. Trimble, Magistrate-Judge and now District Court Judge, United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana.

A member of the Louisiana Association for Justice and the Southwest Louisiana Bar Association, Mr. Schwartzberg has handled a wide range of legal matters for individual clients including all types of personal injury and accident claims; to succession matters; business disputes and litigation matters; insurance claims; and professional malpractice claims. He asserts that he vigorously representing clients, and gives personalized attention to all clients of the law firm.

Mr. Schwartzberg is a native of New Orleans, Louisiana and has lived in Lake Charles, Louisiana since 1986. He is a past member of the Board of Trustees of the Jewish Congregation of Temple Sinai of Lake Charles, is a current member of the congregation, and has served as a Religious School teacher and principal. The attorney is married and has two sons of college age.

Richard Runyon

Retired Senior Analyst

United States Food and Drug Administration

Seattle, WA

Seattle, WA — Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Richard Runyon is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Life Member for his contributions as a Senior Investigator and Analyst.

Mr. Runyon earned a criminal justice degree at California State University, which he notes is where he discovered his love for science. He returned to California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt, and earned a K-12 teaching credential

along with his Bachelor of Arts degree and a Master of Science degree in Biology.

Mr. Runyon worked as a biology instructor at the College of the Redwoods, a public community college with its main campus in Eureka, CA, and also at Allan Hancock College, a public community college in Santa Maria, CA, before becoming an environmental health specialist for Santa Barbara County. He worked as a facilities coordinator for Lockheed Martin Space Operations Command.

Mr. Runyon noted that before joining the Food and Drug Administration, he spent more than a decade as a senior scientist for Halliburton NUS Corporation and held an adjunct faculty position at Chapman University, a private research university in Orange, CA. He is also a retired investigator and senior analyst for the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), working there from 2000 until 2014.

Mr. Runyon is considered an expert in handling risk management, food,

and interstate travel cases for the FDA. His experience includes international investigations of melamine-contaminated pet food and work on Mexican petrochemical plants with NUS. He is a member of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), the world’s largest multidisciplinary scientific organization. According to Mr. Runyon, the AAAS seeks to “advance science, engineering, and innovation throughout the world for the benefit of all people.”

Mr. Runyon credits his success to perseverance, flexibility, and passion for travel to provide community education on his specialty topics.

David Alan Holland

Retired Aviation Cadet Pilot & Educator

United States Air Force

Jacksonville, AR

Jacksonville, AR— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, David Alan Holland is acknowledged as a Distinguished Leader for his contributions as an officer in the United States Air Force.

Lieutenant Colonel Holland joined the United States Airforce as an aviation cadet in 1959 where he graduated as a pilot and officer. Serving more than 50 years, Lieutenant Colonel Holland quickly advanced to the rank of lieutenant colonel

and flew trainer, fighter, bomber and transport aircrafts during the Vietnam War to transport cargo and personnel. He specifically flew the Republic F-105 Thunderchief supersonic fighter-bomber on missions in Vietnam and reenlisted for another tour of service.

Seeking higher education, Lieutenant Colonel Holland attended Ashland University where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management in 1972. Recognized as a leader among his peers, he served as the chief pilot for the United States Air Force training organization after his active-duty service where he was responsible for training young troops in flight simulation and active aviation drills.

Lieutenant Colonel Holland has received many accolades during his service with the Air Force, including the Silver Star Medal; a Distinguished Flying Cross Medal; Bronze Star Medal; 3 Meritorious Service Medals; and 6 Air Medals. An expert in his field, he is most proud of his management and instruction of the

Tacorya J. Wright

Procurement Analyst

New York City Emergency Management

Brooklyn, NY

Brooklyn, NY— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Tacorya Wright is acknowledged as a Distinguished Professional for his work in the fields of Leadership and Military.

Mr. Wright began his academic journey at Alabama State University where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice and Corrections from 2004 to 2009. He then attended Saint Joseph’s University from 2016 to 2018 and received a Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice. He is currently working toward a Master’s degree in Homeland Security and Crisis/Emergency/Disaster Management at the Metropolitan College of New York. In addition to his

educational accomplishments, Mr. Wright has also earned a HAZMAT Awareness Certification, a HAZMAT Operations Certification, and a HAZMAT Mass Decontamination Certification.

Since 2018, Mr. Wright has been a chemical biological radiological and nuclear specialist with the U.S. Army and served as part of the Army’s Operation Inherent Resolve in Baghdad Iraq from 2019 to 2022. He worked with the Army in Fairbanks Alaska from 2018 to 2019 and in 2022, Mr. Wright served as an emergency preparedness specialist with NYC Emergency Management.

Aside from his professional pursuits, Mr. Wright is a member of the Track and Field Team; Student Government Association; NAACP; and has served as a College Legislator. He is also a member and the former vice president of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. chapter at Alabama State University.

United States Air Force pilots in their initial and advanced aviation careers.

Aside from his professional career in the military, Lieutenant Colonel Holland was the league president of Jacksonville Bowling Association for 20 years. He attributes much of his success to his upbringing, as well as his parents, school colleagues, and teachers, who all inspired him to strive for greatness and help those in need. In the future, Lieutenant Colonel Holland plans to continue assisting the disadvantaged and hopes to do some writing.

Mr. Wright supports local and community projects. He would like to dedicate this honor to his mother, Angelia Allen; siblings, Rashunda, Octavious and Dashwan; and daughter, Noelle. He thanks them for their love and support.

Kenneth O. Preston, SMA

U.S. Army Retired Sergeant

13th Sergeant Major of the Army Sergeant Major Arlington, VA

Arlington, VA—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Kenneth O. Preston is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Life Member for his contributions to Military Leadership.

Mr. Preston earned an Associate of Arts in Vocational Education and Instruction at the University of Louisville in 1989. He undertook military studies at the U.S. Army Sergeants Major Academy in Fort Bliss, Texas from 1995 to 1996. A decade later, he returned to civilian education and attended Trident University, where he attained a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in 2007 and a Master of Business Administration in 2009. In recent years, he has undertaken automotive mechanics technology coursework at the Lincoln College of Technology.

Mr. Preston joined the military after high school with the intent of serving for only four years. His plans changed, however, once he fell in love with the people and the mission. He attained the rank of Sergeant Major of the Army. Mr. Preston commenced his military service in 1975 holding various leadership roles for more than 35 years, including cavalry scout and tank commander. He had been a deputy commandant of the Noncommissioned Officer Academy at

Fort Knox Kentucky between 1994 and 1995 before shifting to command sergeant major. He served in this post for the 3rd Battalion of the 8th Cavalry Regiment of the 1st Cavalry Division from 1996 until 1998; the 3rd Grey Wolf Brigade of the 1st Cavalry Division from 1998 to 1999; the 1st Armored Division between 2000 and 2001; and the V Corps and Combined Joint Task Force 7 from 2001 until 2003.

Mr. Preston was honorably appointed as the 13th Sergeant Major of the Army, a unique non-commissioned rank and office within the United States Army. In this capacity, he earned distinction as the most senior enlisted member of the Army from 2004 until his retirement in 2011-the longest-serving incumbent to do so since the creation of the office in 1966. Among his duties during this time, Mr. Preston advised the chief of staff of the U.S. Army on all matters of discipline, training, and quality of life during a period of intense action abroad in the Middle East. He was also consistently invited to testify before the U.S. Congress regarding these subjects.

Following his retirement from the military, Mr. Preston took on the role as co-chair of the Chief of Staff of the Army’s Retired Soldier Counsel from 2011 to 2016; and as the vice president of the non-commissioned officer and soldier programs of the Association of the U.S. Army between 2013 and 2020. This program seeks to provide a voice for soldiers and honors those who have provided security on behalf of the nation. Despite the end of his tenure, he has continued to hold a senior fellowship at the nonprofit organization since 2020. Mr. Preston also served as president of Homes for Our Troops from 2012 to 2013, which is a charitable endeavor that strives to build and donate homes adapted for use by severely wounded veterans at no cost. He has served as a board member since 2013.

Outside of the nonprofit sector, Mr. Preston has also dedicated time to working as a military advisor since 2015 for Veterans United Home Loans, a mortgage lender for Veterans Affairs loans that is based in Columbia, Missouri. He has offered his expertise in a similar role for Veterans United Realty and has held numerous leadership roles for other organizations, including the Institute for Veterans and Military Families; the Eagle’s Watch Foundation; and the Army Historical Foundation.

Mr. Preston has accrued numerous merits across the span of his enlistment, such as an Army Distinguished Service Medal; a Legion of Merit with one oak leaf cluster; a Bronze Star Medal; a Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters; a Joint Service Commendation Medal; and an Army Achievement Medal with two oak leaf clusters, among many others. He was the first enlisted soldier to receive the George C. Marshall Award from the Association of the United States Army, which honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the military and the nation.

Mr. Preston attributes his success to great leaders. However, his exceptional career could not have been achieved without his bravery, passion, and sense of duty. Looking toward the future, he plans to remain engaged in military-related endeavors while also dedicating time to his various hobbies, including golf, automotive maintenance, and quality time with friends and family.

Mr. Preston notes that his mentors are Delbert Stark, Skip Ashton, Dick Morgan, Gary Pastine, and Jake Fryer. He would like to dedicate this honor to his wife, Karen, and thank her for her love and support.

Angie Thomas

Realtor

City Real Estate

Midlothian, TX

Midlothian, TX— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Angie Thomas is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Platinum Business Professional for her contributions to the field of Residential Real Estate.

Ms. Thomas attended Bible Baptist Christian School in 1982 launching her higher education experience. She also completed coursework in accounting at Navarro College. The professional changed careers after experiencing a negative personal experience while shopping for a new home. She explained that she and her husband were looking at real estate hoping to buy their first home and had several bad experiences with real estate agents. These negative encounters made her realize that she could provide positive experiences for those who needed real estate services.

A licensed real estate agent, broker, and certified in short sales, Ms. Thomas began her career at REMAX Boardwalk in 1993 selling more than $1 million in real estate

in her first year of business. She later moved To Century 21 Bigham realtors where they were bought out by Henry S. Miller then Coldwell Banker, she then joined Keller Williams Ellis County as a realtor in 2003. She became a launch coach with Keller Williams in Her experiences in these roles helped to develop her skills in residential real estate, listings, and short sales. She left Keller Williams in 2021 to pursue a career at City Real Estate in Midlothian, Texas and has flourished as a managing broker and broker associate. Her responsibilities include answering phone calls; managing property listings; showing properties to clients; solving issues and problems as they arise; and is also responsible for overseeing 18 real estate agents to whom she provides mentorship, guidance, and training.

A multimillion-dollar producer, Ms. Thomas has received numerous honors and accolades for her excellence in real estate during her career including the 2015 Culture Award by Keller William Ellis County; Top Producing Agent Award from Century 21; and Top Listing Agent Award. She considers the highlight of her career to be helping clients become homeowners and purchase their dream homes, and she greatly enjoys the process of building strong client relationships, as well.

In addition to her professional pursuits, Ms. Thomas is a leader in her community and has served as a board member of Realtors Unlimited in Ellis County, Texas; an ambassador to the Midlothian Chamber of Commerce; as president of the Women’s Council of Realtors in Ellis

County in 2021; and is a volunteer and organizer for the local basketball league. She is quick to share that she lives her life, both professional and personal, by the mottos “God first, family second, business third” and “I work for you.” She hopes to leave a legacy as someone who always went above and beyond for her clients.

In her spare time, Ms. Thomas enjoys spending time with her husband; two children; four grandsons; two granddaughters; two sisters; and one brother. She is particularly fond of traveling with her husband, a retired Army veteran, and going to her grandchildren’s games. The real estate professional is proud that her son is a warrant officer in the U.S. Army, following in her husband’s footsteps, and is incredibly grateful to have had her husband’s support in the early days of her real estate career, especially since they spent 10 years separated due to her husband being stationed away from her at Fort Hood. Ms. Thomas also relishes her job as a babysitter, repair person, and even sometimes a marriage counselor.

When considering her great success in the field, Ms. Thomas explained that her family is an incredible source of inspiration and motivation for her in all aspects of her career. Growing up poor, she wanted to ensure that her children and grandchildren got all the opportunities that she didn’t have growing up. Her advice to young and aspiring professionals is to acknowledge the importance of having support from their families in their careers as it will be much harder to succeed in the industry without it.

Barry H. Snowden

Real Estate Development & Corporate Law Attorney

Morris, Lendais, Hollrah & Snowden Fredericksburg, TX

Fredericksburg, TX— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Barry H. Snowden is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the fields of Real Estate Development and Corporate Law.

Mr. Snowden pursued higher education at Baylor University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economic and Political

Science in 1963. He continued at Baylor University Law School receiving a Juris Doctor in 1970. The attorney is active with the Houston Bar Association, and the Texas Association of Bank Counsel, among others, and has been licensed to practice law by the Texas Bar Association and the American Bar Association.

With more than 50 years in the field, Mr. Snowden has worked in real estate development and corporate law as an attorney at Morris, Lendais, Hollrah and Snowden. He is responsible for representing builders and developers during land acquisitions; handling international clients; mergers; corporate

transactions; and business contracts, as well as banking and financing. Adding to his experience, Mr. Snowden previously served as an assistant district attorney in the Southern District of Texas for three years.

Reflecting on his extensive career, Mr. Snowden is most proud of his work in the Texas real estate development community and the international sectors of the firm and to have established a practice for their French banking clients. He attributes his success to his ambitious and assertive personality. Looking toward the future, Mr. Snowden aspires to continually thrive and expand the scope of his career.

Les M. McCoy

President/ Founder/ Chief Executive Officer Design Point Inc.

Bethlehem, PA

Bethlehem, PA— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Mr. Les M. McCoy is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the fields of Interior Architectural Design and Senior and Corporate Living.

Mr. McCoy studied at St. Petersburg College in the mid-1960’s but found college life wasn’t for him. Instead, he wanted to learn the engineering and architectural design through actual experience so he took a job with a small consulting engineering firm and through that tenure Mr. McCoy rose to manage projects from design thru construction.

This experience led to opening DesignPoint, Inc. in 1995 where he serves as the president, founder, and chief executive officer. Guided by Mr. McCoy’s expertise, DesignPoint Inc initially developed a hospitality design background which led them into the senior living market where they have become one of the leading design firms in the country for senior living communities. They also have an extensive portfolio of design projects for healthcare organizations, banks, and corporate interiors.

A leader in his field, Mr. McCoy has received many accolades and awards for his accomplishments, including being a finalist for the Gold Key Awards in 2022; receiving a Gold Nugget Award from Builder Magazine; earning a Downtown Philadelphia Development Award; and being awarded a National Senior Housing Association Award.

DesignPoint celebrated their 25th year of operation in 2020.

Revered by his peers as a successful business professional, Mr. McCoy has served in many community roles, such as being a former member of the board of directors for the literacy center in Allentown, Pennsylvania. He also served on committees and boards with his Lutheran Church and Phoebe Ministries and the Courtney Diacont Memorial Foundation.

Attributing his success to his diligence and attention to the needs of his clients, Mr. McCoy has always enjoyed designing interiors. In the coming years, he plans to enjoy the continued growth and success of his business and will spend more time traveling, visiting family in Europe and Washington DC, and playing a round of golf at his club or wherever his travels take him.

Peter John Jago

Co-Founder

Managing Director

GCF Development.com

Plantation, FL

Fort Lauderdale, FL-Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Mr. Peter John Jago is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the fields of Property Development and Real Estate.

Mr. Jago is the co-founder and managing director of PDT GCFRC and GCF Development in Hollywood, Florida. He leads a team of talented and motivated real estate professionals and his property development companies have garnered more than $6 billion in real estate projects throughout the U.S. and abroad in locations such as South Africa, the U.K., and the U.S. Virgin Islands. In the U.S., many of Mr. Jago’s projects have been developed in Hollywood and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, as

well as in Crested Butte, a well-known ski town in Colorado, where he is co-owner of Nordic Inn and the Summit Lodge at the base of the ski slopes.

According to Mr. Jago, his firm specializes in the development of mixed-use buildings, luxury hotels, high-end residential dwellings, and condominiums. Throughout his professional career, Mr. Jago has been involved in more than 3,000 residential units, ten hotels, and twelve shopping centers, creating more than ten million square feet of developed space.

Mr. Jago notes that he and his team strive to maintain GCF’s distinguished reputation for excellence. Mr. Jago aspires to continue making a positive impact in an industry through which he finds tremendous fulfillment. He also derives a sense of satisfaction in knowing that what he does provides him with the opportunity to leave a legacy.

Prior to moving to the U.S., Mr. Jago worked in the diamond business in South Africa. He founded six different companies in South Africa, including Jago Diamonds Pty. Ltd.; Maluti Diamond Cutting Works Pty. Ltd.; several restaurant nightclubs; and was a founding shareholder and owner of another 16 companies and entities, which included

a multitude of properties, including shopping centers, hotels, and a 4800-acre game reserve. Mr. Jago still has ownership in two large Marriott Hotels in South Africa, and a home on the beach.

Mr. Jago first started investing in the U.S. in 2001 and traveled back and forth between S.A. and the U.S. 6 or 7 times a year. Finally in 2016 Mr. Jago moved permanently to the U.S. and his investments in the U.S. ultimately led to the formation of GCFRC and GCF Development. Throughout his professional career, Mr. Jago asserts that he employed more than 25,000 individuals, either directly or indirectly.

Mr. Jago has been featured in numerous articles, magazines and newspapers for his success in real estate. Due to his years in the diamond industry, Mr. Jago also had the opportunity to serve as the financier, producer, and lead actor in “Diamond River Hunters,” a 7-part series that was subsequently purchased by Discovery Channel and aired in more than 50 countries around the world. Mr. Jago inspiration is his wife Jill, his 4 children, and 6 grandchildren. He has a net worth of approximately $50 million. For more information on Mr. Jago and his work, please visit his website at gcfdevelopment.com.

Lorrie Kennedy Broker and Agent Classic Realty Hutto, TX

Hutto, TX— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Lorrie Kennedy is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for her contributions to the field of Real Estate.

Mrs. Kennedy is a broker and owner of Classic Realty, a firm dedicated to serving the Hutto, Texas area as well as neighboring counties. Mrs. Kennedy joined Classic Realty in 2010 and purchased the business in 2018. The business professional, along with her team, is dedicated to providing excellence in service.

Mrs. Kennedy sought licensure in 2007 from The University of Texas at Austin and holds both a real estate license as well as a broker’s license, which she earned in 2017 from Champions School of Real Estate, the largest real estate school in Texas. She also secured a certificate in interior design from the University of Phoenix in 1999 and completed coursework in elementary education at Tabernacle Baptist Bible College. Mrs. Kennedy began her career with Kuker Company Real Estate Services from 2007 to 2009 moving

to Coldwell Banker United between 2009 and 2010. Adding to her mastery of the field, Mrs. Kennedy also worked as a real estate paralegal with Pat Cavness Law Office from 2003 to 2007 and as part of the paralegal staff at Smith & Carlson Law Office between 2000 and 2003.

Mrs. Kennedy regularly contributes to Realty Line, a regional real estate publication, and has been duly recognized for many professional accomplishments throughout her career, including the Rookie of the Year Award from the Austin area network of the Women’s Council of Realtors where she served as president in 2022. The broker has been a member of the Central Texas MLS as Board of Governor and/or Advisory Council for more than five years and is active in many other capacities with various organizations, including working on the state level of the Texas REALTORS Professional Standards Committee; the Professional Standards Coordinating Committee; and the Professional Women of Williamson Co., for which she served as vice president of the membership and scholarship committee from 2012 to 2015 and president for a one-year term in 2016. Mrs. Kennedy also serves as the vice president of membership for the Williamson County Republican Women, a position she has held since 2016, and was a member of the Texas Women in Business Alliance between 2011 and 2013.

Certified in numerous specialties, Mrs. Kennedy is a certified new home specialist and negotiation expert and is a graduate of the REALTOR® Institute. As a certified negotiation expert, Mrs. Kennedy partners with clients in a comprehensive exploration of their buying and selling

options. As a nationally certified real estate mentor and coach, Mrs. Kennedy is a member of the Texas Realtor Leadership. She is focused on assisting other agents to develop and process leads in the market and resolve any pending barriers to building an impressive portfolio. Mrs. Kennedy asserts that she helps other agents earn the appropriate continuing education credit and obtain initial licensure as well as renewals.

A leader in her field, Mrs. Kennedy is especially proud to be affiliated with several organizations whose missions are to advance women in business. She has been an active member of Professional Women of Williamson Co. since 2012; served as vice president of the membership and scholarship committee from 2012 to 2015; and president for a one-year term in 2016. Mrs. Kennedy is also the vice president of membership for the Williamson County Republican Women since 2016, and was a member of the Texas Women in Business Alliance between 2011 and 2013.

In regards to her exceptional success in the field, Mrs. Kennedy credits a willingness to take intelligent risks and follow her instincts for her professional advancement. She relies on a strong work ethic in meeting both short and long-term goals and notes that she is gratified to have built a stellar reputation as a productive and persistent real estate professional who is pleased to watch agents, she has mentored find success.

Continuing to focus on her career, Mrs. Kennedy plans to expand Classic Realty to 100 active agents and help them advance their careers through her outstanding instruction.

Rochester, MI—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Abraham J. Salazar is acknowledged as a Distinguished Business Professional for his contributions to the field of Automotive Fluid Dynamics.

Dr. Salazar earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and Turbomachinery in 1980 at the Simon Bolivar University in Venezuela and a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering and Thermo-fluids in 1986. He earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering and Computational Fluid Dynamics in 1998. The doctor has continued advancing his education with a certification in lean systems for Toyota Motor Engineering via the University of Kentucky School of Engineering in 2010.

Drawing on over four decades of expertise in the field of mechanical engineering, Dr. Salazar specializes in automotive computational fluid dynamics. He has worked as a manager since 2012, as well as a senior manager of research and development at Giffin Inc., a company that provides automotive equipment to automakers. Prior to this role, he built a prolific career in the mechanical engineering department at the University of Kentucky from 1991 to 2012, where he served in a variety of roles, including an associate research professor; an assistant director and co-founder; an assistant research professor; a senior research engineer associate; a post-doctoral scholar; a graduate research assistant; a consultant; and a teaching assistant. He was also active as an assistant director and co-founder of the painting technology consortium at the University of Kentucky from 2000 until 2012.

Dr. Salazar initially entered the field as an assistant professor at the conversion and transport department of the Simon Bolivar University in Venezuela from 1980 to 1982. Between 1984 and 1990, he garnered expertise as a research engineer in the reservoir engineering department of the reservoir simulation section at the Intevep PDVSA in Venezuela, while concurrently serving as an adjunct associate professor in the

Donald E. Meyer II

Chief Executive Officer

Enterprise Cost Reduction (ERC) Inc.

Omaha, NE

Omaha, NE— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Donald E. Meyer II is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the field of Information Technology.

Mr. Meyer is the Chief Executive Officer of Enterprise Cost Reduction (ECR), Inc. He notes that he works with clients to drive unnecessary costs out of their organization while improving employee satisfaction and retention. Mr. Meyer prioritizes his customers with an innate

customer centric approach and first ensures to improve overall cost models and operational efficiencies.

Mr. Meyer worked for Cisco Systems, Inc. for more than 10 years prior to the formation of ECR, Inc. He played an instrumental role in the growth of Cisco Systems’ channel partner program by securing the loyalty and trust of business partners. Mr. Meyer also established his information technology expertise as a sales specialist with AT&T Inc. and CenturyLink prior to his work at Cisco Systems, Inc.

According to Mr. Meyer, he specialized in helping business leaders harness information technology to improve financial performance and gain competitive advantages. He also focused

mechanical engineering department at the Metropolitan University in Caracas, Venezuela from 1988 to 1989. He has authored one book, several book chapters, 80 peer-review technical papers, and developed 15 patents nationally and internationally.

Dr. Salazar has received the Automotive News PACE Award in 2017 from Giffin, Inc. He is most proud of his scholarly work and patents, in addition to being one of the first four recipients selected among numerous candidates for the National Council for Scientific and Technological Research Master’s Sponsorship Program at the Simon Bolivar University in Venezuela, which led to the expansion of his career and the opportunity to earn a doctorate degree in his specialty from the University of Kentucky. He attributes much of his success to his Christian faith; his ethical practices and principles; his perseverance as an immigrant; the mentorship of Dr. James McDonough; and the examples of his father, whose dedication to his family, sacrifices and endurance inspired him to advance further and serve with integrity in all his endeavors.

Dr. Salazar is actively involved in mentoring young professionals and contributing to charity foundations through his missionary work at his local church.

on ensuring that his clients receive an adequate financial return for their investment.

Mr. Meyer attributes a great deal of his success to the knowledge he acquired from his former mentors and the support of his family. He is particularly proud to have significantly expanded his professional skill set while simultaneously caring for his wife and daughter. In the coming years, Mr. Meyer intends to continue serving his customers while furthering his honest and trustworthy reputation.

Abraham J. Salazar

Senior Manager of Research & Development Giffin Inc. Rochester, MI

J. David Jacovitch Geologist/Geophysicists Retired Kingman, AZ

Kingman, AZ—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, J. David Jacovich is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the field of Geology.

Mr. Jacovitch pursued scholarship at the University of Minnesota where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Geology. During his five decades of experience, he asserts that he has cultivated a successful career by operating as an independent geologist and geophysicist. A testament to his expertise, he has worked with such noteworthy companies as Schlumberger (SLB); Rocky Mountain Engineering; and Daniel Geophysical. Throughout his career, Mr. Jacovitch has been fascinated with natural phenomena which has led

to him conducting a great deal of work in measuring, examining, and exploring the physical properties of the earth.

A testament to his leadership, Mr. Jacovitch served as a former member of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists and The American Institute of Mining, Metallurgical and Petroleum Engineers. Mr. Jacovitch primarily specialized in copper, coal, gold and other minerals and excelled in the exploration of oil and gas, conducting geo-profiles, creating sonic logs and managing wirelines.

Mr. Jacovitch attributes his success to his positive outlook on life and his ability to adapt to different situations and roles. He asserts that he has always maintained his passion for his profession and his principles treating his clients with respect and exceptional service during his time in the field. Although Mr. Jacovitch has many significant accomplishments during his career, he is particularly proud of his

involvement in the analysis of fuel meter measurements in a local water well, which proved to be a critical study for the community.

Najib N. Abusalbi

Scientist

Retired Leander, TX

Leander, TX—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Najib N. Abusalbi, PhD is acknowledged as a Distinguished Business Professional for his contributions to the Field of Scientific Problem Solving in both Science and Business.

Dr. Abusalbi earned a Bachelor of Science in Physics from Lebanese University in 1974. He then received a Master of Science in Physics from the American

University of Beirut in 1976 and a Doctor of Philosophy in Atomic Physics from Louisiana State University in 1981. He also holds a certificate in strategic innovation, business administration and management from IMD Lausanne.

Dr. Abusalbi began his career as a research assistant professor for the University of Minnesota in 1981-1982 and was an assistant professor with the University of Houston in 1982-1984. He joined the industry as a software development engineer for Schlumberger in 1984 and rose through the ranks until he became the vice president and director of corporate university relations in 2011. He developed a patent for “Method and System for Data Context Service” in 2008 and was also a valued member of the American Physics Society; the American Chemical Society; and Harvard Business Review Industry Advisory Board, among several other professional organizations.

The doctor has published more than 20 cited papers in physics and chemistry

and has worked in the field for more than 35 years. He has been an independent advisor since early 2018, he has focused his efforts on mentoring others in his field of expertise, guiding them to make the best possible decisions to progress their careers.

Dr. Abusalbi served on the industry advisory board of the Norway-Texas Petroleum Research Alliance and on the technical committee of the Geoscientists without Borders of the Society of Exploration Geophysicists Foundation. He also chaired the online communities’ advisory committee of the Society of Petroleum Engineers and their executive committee on education.

In the future, Dr. Abusalbi intends to publish a variety of scientific and literary writings, utilizing his career success in service of his love for progressing humanity.

James R. Geisbush, P.E., FASCE

Senior Civil Reliability Engineer

The Central Arizona Project

Glendale, AZ

Glendale, AZ— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, James Geisbush is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the Engineering Field.

Mr. Geisbush began his scholarship journey at Washington State University in 1990 where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. He then pursued a Master of Science in Civil Engineering at the University of Arizona in 1994, and is capping his higher education experience working towards a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering at the University of Arizona State University, which should be completed in 2023.

Mr. Geisbush has exceptional experience in the field of Civil Engineering. He began working as a project manager/engineer at HDR Engineering Inc. from 2002 to 2006. He then joined the Central Arizona Project (CAP) in 2006, where his leadership and expertise were recognized resulting in increased responsibility, beginning as a

project manager and subsequently as a senior civil engineer between 2009 and 2017. Adding to his diverse work history, Mr. Geisbush began his engineering career with the U.S. Navy in facilities maintenance.

Mr. Geisbush is a registered engineer who holds credentials as a professional civil engineer in the state of Arizona since 1997 and California since 2011. He received credentials as a project management professional through the Project Management Institute in 2008. A leader in his field, Mr. Geisbush is currently a senior civil reliability engineer who has been affiliated with the Central Arizona Project (CAP)— for more than 17 years. He notes that CAP is the state’s largest resource for renewable water supplies, serving more than five million customers, approximately 80% of the state’s residents. Mr. Geisbush provides extensive expertise in large-diameter water pipelines and manages the maintenance of the pipelines and tunnels.

Known as an experienced professional and a pipe expert, Mr. Geisbush has been called upon by a multitude of professional agencies and institutes for his expertise. He has also served on numerous teams of the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation concerning pipeline maintenance. A testament to his accomplishments, Mr. Geisbush developed a Pipeline Equipment Maintenance Plan (EMP), which outlines the proper time to conduct inspections on pipelines and tunnels and developed maintenance and repair procedures. Mr. Geisbush is heavily sought after

to give presentations to national and international groups on pipeline maintenance.

In his future plans, Mr. Geisbush aspires to teach at the university level and also aims to work with several water agencies throughout the country to develop a textbook on pipeline maintenance because of the limited amount of information available. Additionally, he plans to catalogue all CAPs pipeline condition records before he retires.

Mr. Geisbush is dedicated to keeping abreast of the most state-of-the-art advancements in his field through his affiliations, including the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), where he is an elected Fellow of the organization. He also served on the executive committee of the UESI Pipelines Division from 2017 to 2022 and is a former chair of the committee, having served in this position between 2021 and 2022. He has also served on project advisory committees of the Water Research Foundation and remains a member of Tau Beta Pi.

Mr. Geisbush was recognized for his work with an Excellence in Pipeline Award from the ASCE in 2022. He attributes his success to his parents for encouraging him to pursue an education and for teaching him the importance of leadership. His mentors are Randy Randolph and David Gunn and he would like to dedicate this honor to his dear parents, Jon and Penny, and thanks them for their love and support.

Ron Kopels

Owner and Architect

Ron Kopels Studio

New York, NY

New York, NY—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Ron Kopels is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the Field of Architecture.

Mr. Kopels earned a Bachelor’s degree from The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art in 1981.

He was one of the youngest awardees of the 1982 Fulbright Fellowship for private studies in Florence, Italy.

Mr. Kopels has been the owner and architect of Ron Kopels Studio since 1987. He is considered an expert in residential, commercial, and institutional projects, including art foundations and synagogues. In this role, he supervises and works with a team of four other professionals.

Prior to his current role, Mr. Kopels was a partner with Arc Development and a project architect of Butler Rogers Baskett Architects. He also gained experience with

Sottsass Associates in Milan Italy and with a large firm in New York.

In his spare time, he enjoys painting and he supports local and community charities. He would like to dedicate this honor in memorium of John Hedjuk and Ettore Sottsass.

Robert Eugene Ables

Technical Services Supervisor

KLX Energy Services

Hobbs, NM

Hobbs, NM—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Robert Eugene Ables is acknowledged as a Top Pinnacle Professional for his contributions to the Oil and Gas Production Fields.

Mr. Ables began his professional journey hoping to enter the military, but instead chose to enter New Mexico State University as a music student where he was awarded a full scholarship. He completed the coursework in 1990 while also becoming a father. Drawn to the oil and gas industry because of its dependability, higher-than-average pay, and availability, Mr. Ables began working at Hobbs Rental Corp. to support his young family as a safety valve technician testing and repairing safety relief valves

in gas plants and field stations from 1990 to 1993.

An industry expert in Oil and Gas Production, Mr. Ables currently works at KLX Energy Services, a leading onshore provider of a wide range of oilfield services, as a technical services supervisor and has more than 20 years of experience. A testament to his exceptional career and skills, he has had numerous job titles and responsibilities over the years, including jar technician disassembling, inspecting, and reassembling fishing jars from 1993 to 2016 at Schlumberger; field service technician at Baker oil Tools; Flowback Pit Monitoring; Gate Guarding; supervisor and part-time shop mechanic at Pace Oilfield Services (2016-2023); Fishing Supervisor II at Weatherford (20102016); Reverse Operator at Knight Energy Service (2009-2010); General Manager at O&S Quik Change, Inc. (2009); Fishing Supervisor II at Weatherford (2006-2009); and Jar Technician at Key Energy Services, LLC (2003-2006).

Known for his ability to “take care of business, Mr. Ables is proud of his longevity in the industry and notes that his strong work ethic was instilled in him when he was a child spending summers working on a farm. Aside from his professional pursuits, Mr. Ables strives to live comfortably, continue to work, travel, go to concerts, and spend time with his loving family, including his wife, Natrice, two children, and three granddaughters.

Virgil R. Hazelett

Retired

Local Government and Public Service

Glenn Allen, VA

Glenn Allen, VA— Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Virgil R. Hazelett is acknowledged as a Pinnacle Life Member for his contributions to Local Government and Public Service Leadership.

Mr. Hazelett earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering in 1967 at the West Virginia Institute of Technology. He completed a Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering in 1968 at West Virginia University. He has been registered as a professional engineer in the states of

Virginia and North Carolina. Additionally, Mr. Hazelett was active with several industry-related organizations, including the American Society of Civil Engineers, the American Public Works Association, International City/County Managers Association, The Henrico Business Club, and the local chapter of Rotary International.

Mr. Hazelett specialized in local government and public service leadership. He built a prolific career as the Henrico County Manager in Virginia since 1992 and retired in 2013. Mr. Hazelett was responsible for appointing all department heads and directly overseeing the Department of Personnel; County Attorney; Office of Public Information; Police and Fire Departments; and providing mentorship services to young public service leaders.

Mr. Hazelett initially began his career in 1972 as Henrico County’s first traffic engineer. He subsequently contributed to the Department of Public Works, serving as the assistant director and director before advancing to the post of a

Deputy County Manager of Community Development in 1989. Mr. Hazelett later worked as the Chief of Staff and a Deputy County Manager of Finance and Administration prior to his top leadership role as the County Manager of Henrico County.

Mr. Hazelett is most proud to have significantly contributed to the fiscal policies that helped Henrico County maintain a triple-A bond rating, which is the highest rating for government entities. Likewise, he developed management succession programs; roadways; and highway extensions; installed the first traffic progression system; and established an official mailing address for Henrico Virginia, which saved the county at least $5 million dollars in annual tax revenues. He attributes much of his success to his commitment and dedication to all his endeavors. Looking toward the future, Mr. Hazelett aspires to continue mentoring the next generation of public service leaders for as long as possible.

Sally A. Campbell

Environmentalist/President

S.A. Campbell Associates

Travelers Rest, SC

Travelers Rest, SC—Prominently featured in The Inner Circle, Sally A. Campbell is acknowledged as a Distinguished Entrepreneur for her contributions to the field of Air Pollution.

Dr. Campbell began her scholarship at Wellesley College in 1964 where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Chemistry. She then completed a Master’s degree in Physical Chemistry at Harvard University in 1969 and a Doctor of Philosophy in Atmospheric and Nuclear Chemistry at the University of Maryland in 1977. Recognized for her excellence in education, she began her career in 1979 as the technical director of atmospheric services with the Martin Marietta Corporation, now Lockheed Martin Corporation, and Martin Marietta Materials. She furthered her education by earning a second Master’s degree in Management and Organizational Development from the Carey Business School of Johns Hopkins University and also became a qualified environmental

consultant through the Institute of Professional Environmental Practice. The doctor then established S.A. Campbell Assoc., an environmental consulting firm, in 1986.

Dr. Campbell is president of S.A. Campbell which provides air quality analysis for industrial sites throughout the United States, helping them solve problems and acquire air mission permits. A testament to her management skills, the doctor is responsible for conducting management training, long-range planning and goal-setting sessions for organizations of all types and assisting major industrial installations in compliance with federal, state and local air pollution regulations.

In addition to her company responsibilities, Dr. Campbell also spent time as a visiting professor at Johns Hopkins University; a professor and toxicologist at Dartmouth College; and a professor at Federal City College. Dedicated to keeping abreast of the most recent research and methods, she is also a member of the Air & Waste Management Association; the American Physical Society; the American Association for the Advancement of Science; ASTM International; the American Chemical Society; and the Maryland Chamber of

Commerce. Dr. Campbell has also been recognized for her achievements by being inducted into The Phi Beta Kappa Society and named a fellow of the American Institute of Chemists.

Dr. Campbell notes that she strives to achieve the extraordinary accomplishments of her greatest inspirations, her father who was a lawyer; and her grandfather who was a business professor. In addition to their professional careers, both men were also very involved in their communities, and Ms. Campbell has sought to follow their example. She recalled that some of her earliest civic work was her time providing organizational development services for social service agencies between 1984 and 1987.

Currently, she is active with her local church on a program regarding social issues and racism, and she hopes to continue to advocate for social change in the coming years.

Members’ Circle

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jionghuang-998462a6

Alex A. Gargano Senior Vice President Vault Insurance Staten Island, NY

Charles A. Morris CEO Write with Purpose Corp. Huntsville, AL

Ashton Nichole Tate VP of DevOps Engineering Support Citigroup Irving, TX

Adriana Rozo-Angulo President & Founder MAS Connections Scotch Plains, NJ mas-connections.com

Alex Abdul Owner Socal Luxury LLC. Cypress, CA

Andrew Reed Partner Connector Labs, Inc. Corinth, TX connectorlabs.com

Barry J. Armstrong Founder & CEO 8888 Coaching Inc. Longmont, CO 8888coaching.com

Charles K. Wagner Jr CEO United Trust Bank Alpharetta, GA utbhome.com

David L. Rogers VP Sales/National Accounts New Legend Transportation Inc. McDonough, GA newlegendinc.com

David Huntzinger Vice President of Safety Laminaar Aviation Infotech Americas Cave Creek, AZ

Dimi Yar Founder/CEO VOSA Income Inequality Solutions Inc. Brooklyn, NY vosa.net

Eduardo F. Martinez CEO Martinez Commercial Flooring Service, LLC Fort Worth, TX martinez-commercial.com

Garry Pezzano President and CEO LeadingAge PA Collingswood, NJ

Jiong Huang Vice President of Quality Management Interpreta Forest Hills, NY

Jacqueline M. DeSilva CEO

Pain Specialists of Southern Oregon and Crater Lake Surgery Center Medford, OR painspecialists.com

Jeffrey S. Wolff Director of Casino Services Aruze Gaming America, Inc. Las Vegas, NV aruzegaming.com

Members’ Circle

Leo Cullen TOSEL Consulting LLC. Wanaque, NJ

Keith Meyers Partner TCS Pequot Lakes, MN

Josh Abelson Founder Abelson & Associates, LLC Peachtree City, GA aaistrategy.com

Lori Oswald CEO of her own Consulting Business and Vice President of Client Services Health Services Consulting & Care Midwest, LLC Lake Winnebago, MI

Mr. Lakshman Lakshmanan Managing Director Alvarez and Marsal McKinney, TX alvarezandmarsal.com

Mark A. Spooner Executive Director Utah Tech University Mesquite, NV

Michael T. Pierce Senior Vice President of Operations Thomas Foods International Pedricktown, NJ

Maurice MO Moragne Chief Sales Officer MMoragne LLC Frisco, TX

Michael J. Springer CEO Greycloud Resolutions Group Citizen Watch America- SVP Field Sales Collleyville, TX greycloudresolutionsgroup.com

Raj Nair Director of Retail Banking TruMark Financial West Deptford, NJ www.linkedin.com/in/raj-nair-146043138

Mohamed Shehata CEO Goldenrods LLC & Automotive Industry Consultancy and Training Perrysburg, OH

Robert A. Toscano Managing Partner Stratosphere Management Consulting Kernersville, NC

Stephen G. Farkas Regional Director, Mid-Atlantic BriefCam New Windsor, MD

Steven Sanchez Senior Vice President of Casualty Underwriting Tradesman Program Managers West Haven, CT tradesmanprogram.com

Toks Adekoya VP Global Merchant and Network Services Risk American Express Livingston, NJ

Arvin Pereira

Managing Director

Bank of America

Allen, TX

https://www.linkedin.com/in/arvin-pereira6a40b36?trk=people-guest_people_search-card

Eugene Gene Larivee

Regional Vice President Masis Staffing Solutions North Oxford, MA masisstaffing.com

Members’ Circle

Christopher Patterson Vice President of Digital H-Advisors Abernath Houston, TX

Daniel Perez CEO Siingly Tarzana, CA siingly.com

Edwidge Cuvilly Nurse Practitioner Weill Cornell Medicine Suffern, NY

G. Kenneth Hornung Senior Director of Sales emTRUTH, INC. Edmund, WA emtruth.com

Jairo Fernandez Senior Director Ferro Holding Corporation BOCA RATON, FL

Jeff Hawkins Vice President Sensopart McKinney, TX sensopart.com

Jim Wilson COO Biz Advisory Consulting Saint Augustine, FL https://www.bizadvisory.com/

Keith M. Drucker Managing Director Agile Vertical Resources Deerfield Beach, FL agile-vertical.com

Luis Hernandez VP Intermodal Florida East Coast Railway Ft Lauderdale , FL fecrwy.com

Michael Moll Bank Protection Vice President Macatawa Bank Holland, MI

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelmoll-cpp-21328414

Pamela Milburn VP, Payer Partnerships Path Mental Health Champions Gate , FL

Silva Lila

Director of Operations Great Lakes Spine and Orthopedics Canton, MI glspine.com

William Schultz

Vice President of Operations

SCE Environmental Nottingham, MD

Parveshpreet Singh CEO Royal Executive Limo Elmont, NY royalexecutivelimo.com

Peter Miller Field Director

Cape Fear Council, Boy Scouts of America Castle Hayne, NC

Shannon S. Yerkic Chief Executive Officer TruMantra Education Group Hialeah, FL trumantra.com

Stacy White Vice President of Operations Longship Group Shawnee, KS www.linkedin.com/in/stacywhite1

Toks Adekoya

VP Global Merchant and Network Services Risk American Express Livingston, NJ

Von Williamson Vice President of Operations Victory Supply Inc Murfreesboro, TN

AsanewlyinductedmemberintheContinentalWho'sWhoRegistry,youareanintegralpart ofourexclusivenetwork!Yourinputanddirectionwillonlyservetostrengthenmembersasthey reachfornewgoals.Likewise,youmayinevitablyreachyourbusinessgoalswhenyourelyonyour fellowmembers.Maintainingexclusivityisoneofourprimaryconcernssothatwemaybetter provideyouwithopportunitiesforqualitynetworking. Tothatend,weareaskingforyourhelpin nominatingpersonswhomyoufeelwouldmakevaluableadditionstoourdirectoryandonline. Becausewevalueyouropinion,weencourageyoutotakeafewmomentstonominatementors, colleagues,andemployees.Thankyouinadvanceforyourtime.Welook forwardtoreviewing yourpersonalrecommendations.Youmaysubmitthisformviafaxto(516) 825-5661ormailto:

ContinentalWho'sWho,303MerrickRoad,Suite210,Lynbrook,NY11563.Areplyenvelopeis enclosedforyourconvenience.

Sincerely,

KennethMcCarthy PRESIDENT

Who's Who Nomination Ballot

nominatethefollowing individual(s):

Continental Who's Who

D YES,pleaserevealmyidentitytothenominee(s).

D NO,pleasedonotrevealmyidentitytothenominee(s).

YOURNAME

YOURBUSINESSPHONENUMBER

Please Note: All nominations must be in writing. Telephonenominationscannotbeaccepted.Nominations mustbemailedorfaxedtoContinentalWho'sWho.

1.

2.