2023 Annual Report - Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions

Annual Report 2023 Celebrating 25 years of improving the human condition

the mission of rocky mountain university of health professions is to educate current and future healthcare professionals for outcomes-oriented, evidence-based practice. The University demonstrates mission fulfillment through the quality of its education and success of its students in academic programs that develop leaders skilled in clinical inquiry and prepared to effect healthcare change.

contact us mission 1800 s. novell place provo, ut 84606 801.375.5125 rm.edu

A Year of Strategic Growth and Significant Milestones

Dear Friends,

Reflecting upon the culmination of my inaugural year as President and CEO of Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMU), I am filled with a profound sense of accomplishment and deep appreciation for the unwavering dedication and passion demonstrated by our students, faculty, staff, and alumni in their pursuit of improving the human condition.

The year 2023 was full of significant milestones. We celebrated the 25th anniversary of the visionary inception of RMU by our esteemed co-founders, Dr. Richard P. Nielsen, Dr. Michael Skurja, Jr., and Dr. Larry T. Hall. Notably, we moved into the former Novell Tower to enhance and expand needed instructional space and state-of-the-art facilities for our students.

It’s been a year of strategic growth. We have added exceptionally talented professionals to our executive team who share a profound commitment to advancing RMU’s mission. The year also witnessed the introduction of new academic programs, including Doctor of Optometry and entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy, further diversifying our educational offerings to meet the nation’s healthcare needs. Additionally, we relocated our Center for Communication Disorders to join the Eye Institute and Counseling Clinic in Building 3 at the Timpanogos Tech Center (formerly RMU headquarters) so we can better provide exceptional healthcare services to the community and underserved populations.

I would like to thank everyone who has helped elevate RMU to where it is today: students,

employees, faculty, community partners, donors, government leaders, and friends. Your support has been critical to the growth and success of our institution. Every student who advances through our programs leaves with the education needed to be successful with an inner purpose of loving and lifting those in need.

This annual report highlights a small sampling of achievements we’ve seen throughout 2023. I invite you to delve into the stories of the remarkable individuals who collectively embody RMU’s vision and purpose — a relentless pursuit of improving the human condition.

In sincere appreciation,

Dr. Cameron K. Martin University President & CEO

MILESTONES of Success

Inaugurating RMU’s Second Visionary President

More than 700 guests eagerly gathered at the Utah Valley Convention Center in Provo, Utah, on Friday, October 6, 2023, to witness a special moment of RMU history — the inauguration of Dr. Cameron K. Martin as the University’s second President. The inauguration program included greetings and remarks from students, alumni, academic leaders, friends of the University, and dignitaries, including Utah Governor Spencer J. Cox and Congressman John R. Curtis of Utah’s 3rd Congressional District.

“President Martin exemplifies the culture of RMU to put people first, and he strongly believes in the University’s mission and all of our graduate students,” said Dr. Michael Skurja, Jr., RMU Board of Trustees Chair. “He will continue RMU’s positive trajectory

through his exceptional leadership, educational acumen, and innovative solutions.”

In an inspiring presidential address, President Martin said RMU is perfectly aligned and positioned to meet the graduate educational healthcare needs throughout our nation.

“I am deeply humbled to lead and build upon RMU’s vision to improve the human condition,” President Martin said. “Serving with the phenomenal faculty, staff, and students at this dynamic institution, we will together further elevate the prominence and stature of our advanced modern healthcare curriculum and experiential learning.”

State-of-the-Art Facilities in the New RMU Headquarters

RMU celebrated the grand opening of its new headquarters in Provo, Utah, in June. More than 300 guests attended the ribboncutting event, including local dignitaries, healthcare educators and partners, and community members. “This state-of-theart facility has been designed and built to provide first-class education and training,” President Martin said. “Moreover, it serves as a hub where education, healthcare, and the community come together.”

RMU’s New Headquarters

Meeting Nation’s Healthcare Needs with New Academic Programs

In 2023, RMU’s two newest programs — Doctor of Optometry and entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy welcomed its first cohorts of students.

RMU Open’s First Optometry Program in the Intermountain West

In May, RMU welcomed its first cohort of students to the newest optometry program in the United States — and the first in Utah and the Intermountain West. The student-centered Doctor of Optometry program features a modernized curriculum with a focus on medical vision care, and the RMU Eye Institute offers advanced medical training, including laser procedures.

Entry-Level Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) Begins to Meet Healthcare Workforce Needs

The demand for occupational therapy is expected to outpace the supply of occupational therapists, with shortages increasing in all 50 states through 2030, according to the National Institutes of Health. RMU’s entry-level OTD program, which began in September, offers a unique learning model that can help students fill that workforce need without relocating. Along with remote instruction from recognized experts nationwide, students visit campus three times each semester for hands-on learning, clinical skills assessment, and connecting with their peers and faculty.

Celebrating 25 Years of Healthcare Education

RMU kicked off its silver jubilee celebration in 2023. Since 1998, RMU has prepared more than 4,000 students from every state to excel as clinicians, educators, researchers, and healthcare leaders with a noble vision and passion for improving the human condition. RMU started as a university focused on physical therapy and has expanded to other healthcare professions. The University offers 10 doctorate and 14 master’s degrees, along with 20 certificates, residencies, and fellowships. Programs are offered through a variety of online, hybrid, and on-campus residential programs at a vibrant campus nestled in the beautiful Rocky Mountains of Provo, Utah.

JASON NGUYEN

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Saving Lives in the Morning, Taking Tests in the Afternoon

While dropping into a coffee shop early one morning, Jason successfully administered CPR on a patron who passed out and hit his head on the floor while choking on food. After the ambulance arrived and EMTs took over, Jason noticed the time and rushed to RMU to take a midterm. “I was just doing what was right.” Karma quickly rewarded the physical therapist in training — Jason aced his kinesiology test.

TONI BROWN

Doctor of Optometry

A Vision for Improving Rural Health

As the first student accepted into RMU’s Doctor of Optometry program, Toni is driven by a desire to make a positive impact on people’s lives. She chose to become an optometrist to help people in all circumstances, including those in small communities like her rural hometown of Venice, Utah. She envisions making a lasting impact — one that extends far beyond eye health, touching the hearts of every patient she encounters. “The kind of doctor I would like to be remembered for,” she said, “is helping others to know that they are worth it, they’re loved, they’re important — because everyone is.”

ADAM WHISLER

Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences

Utilizing Artificial Intelligence to Enhance Military Training

In addition to excelling as a competitive powerlifter and ultra-distance runner, Adam is a 2023 Tillman Scholar recipient and won the Indiana University President’s Award as the Army ROTC’s top-ranked cadet. His study and research at RMU will enhance the human and health performance mission of the entire military through the development of expert artificial intelligence that individualizes workout programs for service members. Adam was Indiana’s 2017 class valedictorian and obtained a Master of Science degree in Exercise Physiology from Florida State University, earning a 3.99 GPA at both schools. “It’s finally time to earn a 4.0!” said the good-natured and driven PhD student, who’s proudly earned straight A’s since enrolling at RMU in 2022, even while challenging himself physically, professionally, and academically.

TARA FITZGERALD Master of Physician Assistant Studies

Lifesaving Actions at Sea-Tac Airport

During a surprise trip home for her dad’s birthday, Tara’s quick thinking and actions helped her save a stranger’s life at the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. A former emergency room technician and volunteer firefighter, Tara calmly took control after noticing people surrounding an unconscious man. The RMU physician assistant student administered CPR and used the airport’s AED defibrillator device to resuscitate the man until emergency responders arrived. “I kind of went right into EMS mode and knew what to do,” she told KING 5 News. The incident reinforced Tara’s confidence about being on the right path in life. Thankfully, that included being in the right place at the right time — and prepared to do the right things.

Current Student Residence Map

Rocky Mountain University

Student Stats

RMU extends its reach globally with 8 students currently outside the U.S., distributed across 3 in the Armed Forces Pacific, 4 in Canada, and 1 in the North Mariana Islands.

ACADEMIC Excellence

Aligning Academic Organization for Greater Efficiency

Providing enhanced academic programs and services for students has been a hallmark of RMU throughout its 25-year history. Recent adjustments have kept costs as low as possible while providing enhanced services for students, creating internal efficiencies, and properly aligning resources.

In April, RMU adjusted the organization of its academic colleges and programs and moved to a threecollege structure:

• College of Health Sciences

• College of Rehabilitation Sciences

• College of Optometry

Earning Accreditation is Further Testament to Excellence

Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). This year, RMU underwent a mid-cycle review with NWCCU

to ensure its programming and processes continue to meet the highest quality standards.

In 2023, two RMU programs obtained additional accreditation from their specialty governing bodies.

The Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) granted accreditation to the Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling (MHC) and Master of Science in School Counseling (MSC) programs. Impressively, RMU met 100% of the 200-plus required standards. “This is a significant achievement for the counseling program,” said Dr. Verl Pope, Program Director and Chair of the Department of Professional Counseling. “It is the culmination of work that began even before the program started in 2020.”

The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accredited the Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program. This prestigious recognition grants accreditation status for five years. It further demonstrates excellence in a program that enables professionals to enhance their skills, knowledge, and credentials while continuing to serve in clinics and hospitals nationwide.

Continuing Education ‘PEAKS’ Interest of Lifelong Learners

In alignment with the Lifelong Learning Department’s mission, RMU Peaks Continuing Education increased the number of online offerings for alumni and healthcare professionals nationwide to 31 self-paced courses. The subject matter is outcomes-oriented and evidence-based and is provided with reasonable affordability and convenient accessibility. It serves many healthcare professions, including athletic training, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, physician assistant, speech-language pathology, and sports performance.

RMU Peaks also hosted state and national healthcare conferences to elevate best practices throughout the nation:

In March, the 34th annual Electroneuromyography (ENMG) Symposium featured world-renowned

keynote speaker Dr. Sanjeev Nandedkar. Attendees learned about cutting-edge research and advanced topics in ENMG, which assesses muscle and nerve health in patients.

RMU also hosted the live virtual 2023 Hard to Swallow Dysphagia Conference in September. Nearly 300 speech-language pathology professionals nationwide received advanced training on topics that affect millions of people. For example, the National Foundation of Swallowing Disorders estimates that 22% of adults over 50 have difficulties in swallowing.

The University welcomed 150 physical therapists in person and 75 online participants during the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Utah Fall Conference in October. Evidence-based courses included pediatric cerebral palsy research and treatment, effective management of mild traumatic brain injuries, and contemporary shoulder and knee orthopedic rehabilitation.

38

Alumni & Students Faculty

69

These numbers include journal articles, book chapters, and presentations at state, regional, and national conferences given by faculty, students, and alumni.

Top Conferences Featuring RMU Presenters

American Academy of Optometry National Conference

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association National Convention

Consortium of MS Centers Annual Meeting

National Athletic Trainers’ Association Annual Meeting & Clinical Symposium

Utah Academy of Physician Assistants Continuing Medical Education Conference Publications

Top Journals Featuring RMU Research

American Journal of Occupational Therapy

American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology

International Journal of Cardiology and Cardiovascular Risk Prevention

International Journal of Strength and Conditioning

International Journal of the Whole Child

Journal of Acute Care Physical Therapy

Journal of Allied Health

Journal of Athletic Training

Journal of Child Language Acquisition and Development-JCLAD

Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation

Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy

Journal of Sports Sciences

Military Medicine

Nurse Education Today

Physical & Occupational Therapy in Pediatrics

FACULTY Achievements

Dr. Court Wilkins

Assistant Dean of Clinical Affairs for the College of Optometry

Optometrist of the Year Leads the Way in Vision Care

Dr. Court Wilkins, Assistant Dean of Clinical Affairs for the College of Optometry, was named the 2023 Optometrist of the Year by the Utah Optometric Association and the Great Western Council of Optometry, a non-profit association with members from Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.

His award-winning expertise and superior experience enhance the student clinical experience. As the only College of Optometry in Utah, giving back is a priority, and Dr. Wilkins connects RMU faculty and staff with many other organizations to provide vision care for populations in need. Currently, he serves as the Utah Director of the Special Olympics Opening Eyes program, which provides hands-on volunteer opportunities for RMU students.

Dr. Crystal Miskin

RMU Alumna and Faculty, Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

More Than One Forte for 40 Under 40 Honoree

Utah Valley BusinessQ Magazine spotted something special about Dr. Miskin, RMU alumna and faculty for the Doctor of Physical Therapy program. When named one of their 2023 40 Under 40 honorees, she was balancing motherhood with a career and working toward her PhD. At the time, Dr. Miskin was the Director of the RMU Community Rehabilitation Clinic (CRC), providing pro bono physical therapy and wellness services to the community, and an assistant professor at the University.

Dr. Miskin is an alumna of RMU, where she also served as president and creator of the Sports Medicine Club at the University. Winning awards and accolades is nothing new to Dr. Miskin. She completed her orthopedic residency and a sports and manual therapy fellowship with Kaiser Permanente in Los Angeles. Dr. Miskin received the RMU Early Career Alumni Award in 2021 and the Best Platform Award at the 2022 UPTA Fall Conference.

Dr. Jonathan Wright

Associate

Professor,

Doctor of Physical Therapy

Healthcare Hero Brings Expert Research to Student Experience

Dr. Jonathan Wright, Associate Professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program, was honored as a 2023 Healthcare Hero by Utah Business Magazine (pictured on page 15), along with other highly impactful healthcare professionals. He was commended for his work as an educator and researcher. Dr. Wright’s impact on healthcare is multi-faceted. As an RMU Associate Professor, he teaches Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students each year about advanced PT concepts and how to treat neurological conditions. He has been teaching at RMU since 2018.

Dr. Wright is also board-certified as a clinical specialist in neurologic physical therapy, certified as a stroke rehabilitation specialist through the National Stroke Association, and is an American Physical Therapy Association advanced credentialed clinical instructor. He administers care to patients through clinical work with Intermountain Health. He also conducts healthcare research, including his most recent work that uses data to help prevent and predict falls.

Dr. Bryan M. Gee

Chair, Department of Occupational Therapy

Dr. Kimberly Davis

Adjunct Faculty, Doctor of Occupational Therapy

RMU Occupational Therapy Faculty Recognized for Significant Contributions to the Profession

Dr. Bryan M. Gee, Chair, Department of Occupational Therapy, and Dr. Kimberly Davis, Adjunct Faculty, Doctor of Occupational Therapy, both received the prestigious 2023 Roster of Fellows Awards from the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). These awards are given to occupational therapists who make significant contributions to the profession with a measured impact on consumers and/or AOTA members.

Dr. Gee is the Founding Director of RMU’s entry-level Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program. Along with his leadership and teaching contributions, he consistently contributes to Occupationaltherapy.com, Relias Education, and the University’s Continuing Education Program. He has published 43 peer-reviewed research studies and three book chapters, and has presented at more than 93 regional, national, and international conferences.

Dr. Davis is a strong advocate for mental health. She and her students provide mental health services in local prisons, independent living facilities for low-income and disabled senior citizens, and homeless shelters in Bangor, Maine.

Dr. Court Wilkins

Dr. Crystal Miskin

Dr. Jonathan Wright

Dr. Bryan M. Gee

Dr. Kimberly Davis

ALUMNI Stories

Dr. Alicia Andrade

Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology, 2023

Overcoming Challenges and Empowering Bilingual Students

Dr. Alicia Andrade (pictured above) is making a difference in New York as a speech-language pathologist (SLP) for Hispanic bilingual children in poverty. Shortly after immigrating from Colombia, her husband passed away, leaving her a single mother with three children. Determined to succeed, she worked full-time while earning a master’s and, later, a Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology.

Armed with her doctorate from RMU, Dr. Andrade is now actively making a difference in the lives of bilingual children with language delays and trauma. Through her research and expertise, she aims to educate speech-language professionals about the effects of trauma and abuse on development, ultimately optimizing outcomes for their clients.

Dr. Mark Campbell

Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences, 2021

Embracing the Natural World to Shape Health and Wellness Philosophy

Dr. Mark Campbell used his doctoral degree to help him launch Nature of Wellness, a company and podcast focused on helping individuals and organizations embrace the natural world as a primary source of health and well-being. Located in Baltimore, Maryland, he is a Certified Wellness Practitioner and Certified Workplace Wellness Specialist and serves as the Senior Fellow for Healthcare and Ability at the National Wellness Institute.

In August, Dr. Campbell, the former Director of Mental Conditioning for the 2019 World Series Champion Washington Nationals Baseball Club, addressed the largest assembly of graduates in RMU’s 25-year history as the commencement speaker.

“RMU’s commitment to improving the human condition resonates with me,” Dr. Campbell said. “Similarly, my philosophy is to use holistic wellness to help humans be their best when it matters most.”

Dr. Glory Dioh-Esona

Doctor of Nursing Practice/Family Nursing Practitioner, 2018

Nursing Alumna Sets Sights on Improving the Human Condition Around the World

Dr. Glory Dioh-Esona, who moved from Cameroon to the United States to pursue a nursing career at age 25, has helped improve people’s lives as a nurse leader for almost two decades. Along with being a nurse practitioner at Southwest Atlanta Nephrology, she gives back through health fairs, acts as the first responder in her church’s health ministry, and empowers patients on kidney care, diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and mental health.

After choosing RMU because of the limited-residency program, Dr. Dioh-Esona earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice/Family Nursing Practitioner (DNP/FNP) degree and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) Certificate. As President of the RMU Alumni Association, she helps others enhance their own positive RMU experience with a focus on volunteer work. “Members of the Alumni Association are givers,” Dr. Dioh-Esona said. “If you want anything good in life, you have to start by being a giver before you can achieve whatever thing you are planning on achieving.”

Dr. Mimi Secor

Doctor of Nursing Practice, 2015

Best of the Best Nurse Practitioners in America

Along with being an international best-selling author, national speaker, educator, media ambassador, radio host, health coach, RMU Trustee, and family nurse practitioner (NP), Dr. Mimi Secor added another accomplishment to her impressive resume this year. She was honored as one of America’s Top NP 2023 winners by the Point of Care Network. The peer-nominated award is given annually to nurse practitioners who demonstrate leadership through improved patient outcomes and peer community support, advancement, and education.

Dr. Secor earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from RMU in 2015. She is also a Senior Faculty member with Advanced Practice Education Associates in Lafayette, Louisiana, and a Fellow in both the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP) and the American Academy of Nursing (AAN). Remarkably, after earning her doctorate at age 61, she entered her first bodybuilding competition a year later and placed fifth at the age of 62. In all aspects of her life, Dr. Secor continues to demonstrate that dreams are worth pursuing at any age.

Dr. Alicia Andrade

Dr. Glory Dioh-Esona

Dr. Mimi Secor

Dr. Mark Campbell

RMU also has international alumni, with graduates spanning various corners of the globe: 3 in the Armed Forces Pacific, 1 in Australia, 4 in Canada, 1 in France, 1 in Germany, 1 in Guatemala, 3 in Ireland, 2 in New Zealand, 1 in the United Kingdom, and 2 in the Virgin Islands.

Alumni & Employee Stats

COMMUNITY Impact

Parkview Vision Clinic Inside Elementary School Offers Eye Care to Children and Families in Need

The Parkview Vision Clinic represents a groundbreaking initiative that will profoundly impact the lives of countless children and families in the Salt Lake City area.

As the first clinic of its kind in Utah, it will reduce barriers by providing clinical care in a trusted space, offering reliable interpretation services, and allowing for student access during the school day. With community partners, glasses will be provided at no cost to the family.

Optometrists from RMU work on-site with patients. The clinic will give third-year RMU Optometry students an opportunity to work alongside faculty to gain hands-on experience and provide vision care to the community.

Dr. Elizabeth Grant, Superintendent of Salt Lake City School District, said, “We are grateful for this partnership that will provide tangible solutions and hope for our students as they will receive vision screenings and eyeglasses, which will have a positive impact on their academics.”

“ ”

Vision disorders are one of the most prevalent disabling conditions for children. In low-income schools, 50% of children need glasses, but 90% don’t have access to them.

That’s why this clinic is so important!

– Jamie Justice Executive Director of Friends for Sight

Sight-Giving Event Aimed to Improve Vision for Navajo Nation

In April, the College of Optometry, in collaboration with community partners, hosted a sight-giving event at Tse’Bii’Nidzisgai Elementary School in Monument Valley, Utah, which serves the Navajo Nation. The event focused on providing eye care services for the participants. More than 130 patients, ranging in age from 2 to 93 years old, received eye examinations.

For many of the individuals who attended, this was their first eye examination — the sight-giving event aimed to improve their vision, benefiting their educational, occupational, and daily activities. The event was seen as a mission of hope, bringing the gift of sight to those in need.

RMU Delivers Free Healthcare at South Franklin Community Center in Provo

RMU partnered with the United Way of Utah County and the South Franklin Community Center in Provo to host a health fair for local underserved and uninsured individuals and families. Over 150 people, including many children, received healthcare assessments, testing, and information. Some attendees were referred to community clinics for further care.

By working together to offer free healthcare services and information to the local community at the health fair, RMU is improving the lives of hundreds of local families in need.

“ ”

Events like these take healthcare right into the heart of a community and gives our students a great opportunity to engage with people, love and lift those in need, meet people where they are, see people for who they are, and help improve their quality of life.

– Dr. Cameron K. Martin RMU President & CEO

RMU Employees Provide Service at Pediatric Physical Therapy Center for United Way Day of Caring

In September, RMU staff, faculty, and leadership participated in the United Way of Utah County Day of Caring. RMU employees provided service at the Now I Can Foundation by weeding and sprucing up the grounds, along with helping to do a deep clean inside the facility. Now I Can is a physical therapy center in Orem, Utah, dedicated to helping children with disabilities achieve their full potential.

RMU Health Clinics Provide Healthcare to the Community

Since 2014, RMU has donated $6.49 million in pro-bono services and given 23,044 volunteer hours to the local community through the help of the RMU Health Clinics. Did

RMU Health Clinics provide services in the areas of mental health, physical therapy, optometry, counseling, and speech-language pathology. In addition to providing the community with advanced healthcare, the clinics offer training opportunities and hands-on learning experiences for students being personally mentored and taught by faculty and clinic staff. All members of the community are welcome at the clinics. The RMU Health Clinics offer pro bono services for those who qualify and sliding fee pay for low-income patients. They also accept various health insurances and offer cash pay services. Contact the individual clinics to learn more. Rocky

385.248.5550

801.900.3656

801.375.2041

Center

801.734.6821

UNIVERSITY Leadership

The Board of Trustees directs Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions in its mission to educate current and future healthcare professionals for outcomes-oriented, evidence-based practice. This year, the Board of Trustees welcomed new members Dr. Richard P. Nielsen and Dr. Lily S. Hsu.

Meet the Newest Trustees

Richard P. Nielsen, PT, DHSc, ECS

Dr. Nielsen was the Founding President and CEO of RMU for 24 years, retiring at the end of 2022. He was also the Founding President and CEO of the Noorda College of Osteopathic Medicine and retired in 2021. Dr. Nielsen served in the U.S. military for over 20 years, including as Chief Physical Therapist for the entire U.S. Navy and as a physical therapy consultant to the U.S. Congress, the Surgeon General, the Supreme Court, the Pentagon, and the White House. He has been recognized locally and nationally for his visionary work and philanthropic service.

Lily S. Hsu, EdD

Dr. Hsu is the President of Labouré College of Healthcare (LCH) in Milton, Massachusetts. In this role, Dr. Hsu has combined her expertise in public health and healthcare programming with her passion for building educational pathways for underserved populations. LCH is increasing representation across the Greater Boston healthcare workforce as the largest educator of registered nurses in Massachusetts, with a 62% racially and culturally diverse student population.

RMU Board of Trustee Members

Board Chair

Michael Skurja, Jr., DPT, ECS (Emeritus)

Vice Chair

Rogan L. Taylor, PT, DPT

Treasurer

Paul V. Burgon, MBA

Secretary

Susan Lucht, OTD, OTR/L

Jessica Egbert, PhD, FFSBM

Leah I. Fullman, ScD, CCC-SLP

Sunnie Giles, PhD, MBA

Mary Jane Harris, PT, MS, DSc (Hon)

Mike Held, MBA

Lily S. Hsu, EdD

D. Brent Israelsen, JD

Greg Myer, PhD, FACSM, CSCS*D

Richard P. Nielsen, PT, DHSc, ECS

R. Mimi Secor, DNP, FNP-BC, FAANP, FAAN

David K. Williams

Cameron K. Martin, PhD (Ex-Officio)

Dr. Malissa Martin Named Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs and Provost

Dr. Martin has made a significant impact on RMU for the past 18 years, including her mentorship and leadership of students, faculty, and academic programs. She also adjusted the alignment of colleges and programs and oversaw successful accreditation efforts. Dr. Martin was inducted into the National Athletic Trainers Association Hall of Fame in 2015. As a nationally renowned thought leader, she has had over 100 research publications and made more than 200 presentations at the national, regional, and local levels during her distinguished career.

Dr. Tom Cappaert Appointed Associate Vice Provost

Dr. Cappaert has been with RMU for more than 12 years, serving as the Program Director for the Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences (PhD) program, Associate Director for the Office of Research, and Senior Faculty member in the PhD program. Dr. Cappaert’s dedication to research and scholarship is evident in his extensive work, comprising over 50 articles, book chapters, home study programs, and grants. He has shared his expertise on national and regional platforms, presenting at over 60 conferences and workshops. His involvement in the academic community extends to serving on the editorial board for the Athletic Training Education Journal and reviewing manuscripts for 10 different scientific journals.

Daniel Harmuth hired as Vice President of Technology & Innovation and Chief Information Officer

Mr. Harmuth came to RMU with more than 30 years of information technology (IT) experience, including working for the State of Utah as the IT Chief Operations Officer and the IT Director at Utah Transit Authority (UTA). Mr. Harmuth’s expertise will help the university harness cutting-edge advancements and digital solutions to enhance academic offerings, ultimately equipping students with the tools and knowledge to become future healthcare leaders.

Daisy Rosado-Cantrell Provides Leadership to RMU as Chief of Staff

Ms. Rosado-Cantrell joined RMU with 13 years of experience in graduate medical education and brings a wealth of strategic knowledge and administrative leadership expertise to the University. Previously, she served in leadership roles at medical education institutions and health centers nationwide, including MemorialCare’s Long Beach Medical Center, New York Medical College, and HCA Healthcare.

RMU Cabinet

Cameron K. Martin, PhD President and Chief Executive Officer

Malissa Martin, EdD, AT-Ret

Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs and Provost

Jeffrey B. Bate, MBA

Executive Vice President of Finance & Operations and Chief Financial Officer

Stephen L. Whyte, MPA Executive Vice President of Communications & External Relations

Daisy Rosado-Cantrell, MSML Chief of Staff

Dan Harmuth, MBA Vice President of Technology & Innovation and Chief Information Officer

Serge Herzog, PhD, MEd, MA Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness

Richard Peterson, MBA Vice President of Academic Administration

Lori Sisk, MEd Vice President of Student Affairs

Nick Starr, MBA, CCP, CBP Vice President of Human Resources

Tom Cappaert, PhD Associate Vice Provost

Maria Sager, MLS Assistant Vice President of Financial Aid

Tanya Snelson Senior Executive Assistant, Office of the President & Board of Trustees

RMU was accredited in 2010 by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. It has an additional eight specialized accreditations for academic programs from national healthcare organizations, ensuring RMU students receive a premier education.