OUR MISSION
At Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions, we develop healthcare professionals and leaders to advance evidence-based practice and improve the human condition.
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
Dear graduates, Congratulations!
Today marks the culmination of years of effort, sacrifice, resilience, and growth. You’ve earned this moment of celebration, and we are proud and honored to share it with you.
The purpose of Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMU) can be summed up in five simple yet powerful words: to improve the human condition. We do this by developing not just skilled clinicians but leaders—men and women who advance evidence-based practice and choose, again and again, to love and lift those around us. Especially those in need.
These words—love and lift—are more than a phrase. They are an ethic, a mindset, and a way of being. They remind us that in every setting, whether it be in a clinic, a hospital, a classroom, or a home, you carry more than a degree. You carry compassion and the ability to make someone’s life a little better.
To love and lift means seeing people for who they are, meeting them where they are, listening with humility, and serving with both expertise and care. It also means being a leader in healthcare, setting the standard for others, mentoring those who follow, and using your voice to shape better systems of care.
You leave here not only as credentialed healthcare professionals but as members of the RMU community. You join a group known for competent, compassionate, and evidence-based practice and leadership, and who make a difference in the lives of those they serve and work among.
You now join the distinguished ranks of RMU alumni. Stay engaged with us. Attend our events, mentor a student, share your professional wins. Your journey with RMU doesn’t end today; it simply changes shape.
Go forward and know that the good you do, whether seen or unseen, matters.
We can’t wait to see the impact you’ll make!
Cameron K. Martin , P h D UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT & CEO
COMMENCEMENT PROGRAM
CONDUCTING
Dr. Cameron K. Martin
University President & CEO
PROCESSIONAL OF THE GRADUATES
Pomp and Circumstance by Sir Edward Elgar (Please stand)
ORDER OF ACADEMIC PROCESSION
Administration & Board of Trustees
Official Guests & Faculty
College of Health Sciences
Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences Candidates
Master of Science in Health Science Candidates
Doctor of Nursing Practice Candidates
Doctor of Nursing Practice, Family Nurse Practitioner Candidates
Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner Candidates
Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner/Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Candidates
Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Candidates
Emergency Nurse Practitioner Certificate Candidates
Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate Candidates
Family Nurse Practitioner/Emergency Nurse Practitioner Certificate Candidates
Family Nurse Practitioner/Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate Candidates
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate Candidates
Doctor of Medical Science Candidates
Master of Medical Science (Master of Physician Assistant Studies) Candidates
Master of Science in Addictions Counseling Candidates
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Candidates
Master of Science in School Counseling Candidates
College of Rehabilitation Sciences
Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology Candidates
Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology Candidates
Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy Candidates
Master of Occupational Therapy Candidates
COMMENCEMENT PROGRAM (CONTINUED)
FLAG CEREMONY
NATIONAL ANTHEM
INVOCATION & REFLECTION
Ms. Rachel Tynan Richards
Master of Science in Health Science Candidate
PRESIDENT’S WELCOME
Dr. Cameron K. Martin
University President & CEO
PRESENTATION OF FACULTY TEACHING AWARDS
Presented by Dr. Tom Cappaert Vice Provost
Hartgraves Award for Excellence in Teaching Recipient
Dr. Mary Shotwell Professor, Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences
Rising Star Teaching Award Recipient
Mr. Tye Jensen
Assistant Professor, Master of Medical Science
PRESENTATION OF ALUMNI AND STUDENT AWARDS
Presented by Dr. Malissa Martin
Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs & Provost
Early Career Alumni Award Recipient
Dr. Lori McGowan
Doctor of Medical Science, Class of 2024
Outstanding Alumni Award Recipient
Dr. Kimberly Masker
Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy, Class of 2015
Richard P. Nielsen Student Service Award Recipients
Dr. Harmony Beppler
Doctor of Physical Therapy Graduate
Mr. Michael Cheesman
Doctor of Medical Science Candidate
STUDENT SPEAKER
Mr. Michael Cheesman
Doctor of Medical Science Candidate
COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS
Dr. Lily S. Hsu President, Labouré College of Healthcare Member, RMU Board of Trustees
READING OF NAMES AND DEGREES
Mr. Spencer Brandt University Instructional Designer
Ms. Gretel Cosman University Registrar
CONFERRING OF DEGREES
Presented by Dr. Jessica Egbert Member, RMU Board of Trustees
ALUMNI WELCOME
Dr. Glory Dioh-Esona President, RMU Alumni Association Board
CEREMONY CONCLUSION
Dr. Cameron K. Martin University President & CEO
RECESSIONAL OF THE GRADUATES
(Please stand)
Participation in the Commencement Ceremony does not indicate degree completion. Upon degree completion, the Registrar’s Office will post the degree on the academic transcript and graduates will receive an official RMU diploma.
COMMENCEMENT REGALIA
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE HOOD
The hooding portion of the Commencement Ceremony dates back to the 12th and 13th centuries and signifies special recognition of master’s and doctoral degree candidates. Faculty members place the hood over the heads of the graduates, recognizing their success in completing the program and symbolically welcoming them as fellow scholars. The hood identifies the owner’s academic institution, degree, and field of study through the length and the colors of the lining and binding. Each graduate’s field of study is designated by its corresponding color as listed below.
Apricot
• Doctor of Nursing Practice
• Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner
• Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner/Emergency Nurse Practitioner
• Master of Science in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner/Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
• Master of Science in Nursing, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Dark Blue
• Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences
Golden Yellow
• Master of Science in Health Science
Kelly Green
• Doctor of Medical Science
• Master of Medical Science Light Blue
• Master of Science in Addictions Counseling
• Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
• Master of Science in School Counseling
Peacock/Teal
• Doctor of Physical Therapy
Silver
• Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology
MILITARY VETERANS
• Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology
Slate Blue
• Doctor of Occupational Therapy
• Master of Occupational Therapy
OTHER REGALiA
Apricot Stole
• Emergency Nurse Practitioner Certificate
• Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate
• Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate
Light Blue Stole
• Clinical Mental Health Counseling Certificate
• School Counseling Certificate
Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions would like to recognize our graduates who are veterans. As members of the military, these students have demonstrated their commitment to the RMU core values of collaboration, authenticity, inclusiveness, and service, especially that of selfless service. In addition to what these graduates will do in the future as health professionals, they have already given service to our nation, our state, and our community. Military veterans received a commemorative red, white, and blue cord to be worn at this Commencement Ceremony, signifying the University’s gratitude for their service and sacrifice.
FEATURED BIOGRAPHIES
COMMENCEMENT ADDRESS SPEAKER
LILY S. HSU, EdD
President, Labouré College of Healthcare Member, RMU Board of Trustees
Dr. Hsu is the president of Labouré College of Healthcare 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. Labouré is increasing representation across the Greater Boston healthcare workforce as the largest educator of registered nurses in Massachusetts with a 68% racially and culturally diverse student population.
Dr. Hsu served as provost at Johnson & Wales University and associate provost at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences University. She holds an EdD in health and behavioral studies from Teachers College Columbia University and an MS and BA from Pennsylvania State University.
Dr. Hsu currently sits on the Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions Board of Trustees. Beyond her role at RMU, she is Chair of the Board for Quincy Asian Resources, Inc., a mission-driven organization dedicated to empowering immigrant communities. She is also a board member of the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts, the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, and the ACE Women’s Network National Executive Council. Previously, she was a commissioner for the New England Commission of Higher Education.
FEATURED BIOGRAPHIES
FACULTY AWARD RECiPiENTS
HARTGRAVES AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE iN TEACHiNG MARY SHOTWELL, PHD, OTR/L, FAOTA
Professor, Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences
Dr. Shotwell has served RMU since 2021, bringing degrees in occupational therapy, health professions education, and adult education, along with certifications in gerontology, qualitative studies, and health and wellness coaching.
She is widely recognized for integrating evidence-based practice with innovative, learner-centered teaching across doctoral coursework, and dissertation supervision. Her mentorship is especially valued at the dissertation level. One student described her as “a beacon of light—providing clarity, concrete action steps, and the encouragement needed to move forward.”
Dr. Shotwell is a Fellow of the American Occupational Therapy Association and has received the Outstanding Service Award from the Georgia Occupational Therapy Association and the Brenau University Teaching Excellence and Campus Leadership Award.
RiSiNG STAR TEACHiNG AWARD
TYE JENSEN, MPAS, PA-C
Assistant Professor, Master of Medical Science
Mr. Jensen joined RMU in 2022, holding a Master of Physician Assistant Studies and a Bachelor of Exercise Science. He is a nationally certified physician assistant with ACLS/BLS certification and instructor status.
As course director for Anatomy, Genitourinary, and Hematology-Oncology, he has modernized the PA curriculum while drawing on his clinical background to bridge theory and practice.
Students praise his approachable, interactive teaching style. One shared that he “did a fantastic job of creating a learning environment that fostered quality learning and genuine understanding.”
Beyond the classroom, Mr. Jensen serves as PA Student Association Advisor, mentoring students through academic and personal challenges. He also practices in a family medicine clinic one day a week.
FEATURED BIOGRAPHIES
EARLY CAREER ALUMNi AWARD RECiPiENT
LORI MCGOWAN, DMSC, PA-C, PA
Doctor of Medical Science, Class of 2024
Dr. McGowan is a physician associate and assistant professor of Orthopedics at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, where she has practiced since 2010. She earned her Doctor of Medical Science at RMU with a concentration in education and a certificate in leadership and administration. She specializes in upper and lower adult reconstruction and serves as lead of the Integrated Community Specialty Practice of Orthopedics, supporting patients across the Employee and Community practice and Destination Medical Center Orthopedic Surgery practices.
Throughout her career, Dr. McGowan has been passionate about advancing the education and professional development of Advanced Practice Providers (APPs). As an orthopedic APP supervisor since 2017, she has developed innovative training initiatives, including a virtual learning platform to strengthen clinical and surgical skills, a mentorship program for new APPs, and educational retreats designed to standardize best practices and enhance patient care. A dedicated mentor since joining Mayo Clinic, she also serves as lead preceptor and was recently appointed APP education specialist for orthopedic surgery.
Her commitment to excellence has earned her the 2025 Mayo Clinic PA Program Guest Lecturer of the Year award and Fellow-level recognition from the Mayo Clinic Educational Excellence Committee. She also serves on the NPPA Education Subcommittee for Mayo Clinic’s Minnesota, Florida, and Arizona campuses.
Dr. McGowan’s research interests include preventive medicine for joint health, leadership, mentorship, and APP professional development. Beyond her clinical and educational roles, she is an active community volunteer, supporting organizations such as Dorothy Day House, the United Way Giving Campaign, and the Ronald McDonald House Charities gala committee in Rochester. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling with her husband and children.
FEATURED BIOGRAPHIES
OUTSTANDiNG ALUMNi AWARD RECiPiENT
KIMBERLY MASKER, OTD, OTR/L, CHT
Post-Professional Doctor of Occupational Therapy, Class of 2015
Since earning her Post-Professional OTD from RMU in 2015, Dr. Masker has built an accomplished career in education, clinical practice, research, and professional leadership. Inspired by her doctoral capstone on preventing play-related injuries in musicians, she earned a Certificate in Performing Arts Medicine and now serves on an international expert panel advancing clinical outcomes and competencies in performing arts medicine.
Dr. Masker is an assistant professor and research coordinator at East Tennessee State University. She leads research on musicians’ health and substance use disorder while maintaining a clinical practice at The Hand Center at Bristol Regional Medical Center. She also remains deeply engaged with RMU as a faculty member, adjunct, mentor, and leader, guiding multiple capstone students and helping develop the Hand Therapy Concentration Track.
A recognized leader in hand therapy, Dr. Masker served as president of the American Society of Hand Therapists (2024–25), represented the United States as a delegate to the International Federation of Societies of Hand Therapy, and has contributed extensively to professional education and scholarship. She is equally committed to serving her community through research, advocacy, and volunteer work focused on substance use disorder and harm reduction.
FEATURED BIOGRAPHIES
2026 RiCHARD P. NiELSEN STUDENT SERViCE AWARD RECiPiENT
HARMONY BEPPLER, DPT
Doctor of Physical Therapy Graduate
The Richard P. Nielsen Student Service Award is the highest honor an RMU student may receive for distinguished service to the University, community, and/or their profession.
Dr. Beppler is an April 2026 graduate from RMU’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program. She is recognized for her leadership, commitment to mentorship, and dedication to serving her University, profession, and community.
Throughout her time at RMU, Dr. Beppler was actively involved in leadership and service. She served on the DPT21 Leadership Board as historian and student advocate, helped organize events for her cohort and the University community, and volunteered with the RMU Physical Therapy Clinic since her first semester. As the lead student coordinator, she managed student volunteer schedules, coordinated patient care, mentored junior cohorts during co-treatments, and advocated for increased student involvement and faculty mentorship. She has also volunteered with the RMU Parkinson’s program since her first semester and later led Parkinson’s exercise classes, empowering individuals to improve mobility, confidence, and quality of life.
While completing a clinical rotation at the Palo Alto Veteran’s Affairs in Monterey, California, she developed and led weekly Parkinson’s and mobility classes for veterans while volunteering with the local SPCA, serving as a dog walker, adoption advocate, kennel volunteer, and animal caregiver. She also remains active in her church community through service projects, event support, and prayer ministry.
Professionally, Dr. Beppler completed clinical experiences in outpatient orthopedics, acute rehabilitation, and the Veterans Health Administration, where she provided compassionate, evidence-based care to patients with orthopedic, neurologic, and medically complex conditions. She looks forward to continuing her current travel physical therapy journey with her fiancé, Shane Duran, as they strive for a career rooted in service, God, learning, leadership, and helping others thrive.
FEATURED BIOGRAPHIES
2026 RiCHARD P. NiELSEN STUDENT SERViCE AWARD RECiPiENT
MICHAEL CHEESMAN, MPAS, PA-C, ATC Doctor of Medical Science Candidate
The Richard P. Nielsen Student Service Award is the highest honor an RMU student may receive for distinguished service to the University, community, and/or their profession.
Mr. Cheesman is graduating from RMU’s Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) program with an emphasis in Healthcare Professions Education and a certificate in Healthcare Leadership and Administration. Mr. Cheesman is recognized for his leadership, strong work ethic, and lasting commitment to the RMU community.
His connection to RMU spans nearly a decade. As a student, he served as the Graduate Student Council representative from the physician assistant (PA) program and now represents the DMSc program in the Student Senate. A 2017 PA graduate, he has also remained actively involved on the RMU Alumni Association Board, demonstrating his dedication to supporting students and fellow alumni.
Professionally, Mr. Cheesman is an orthopedic surgery physician assistant and serves as medical director of the Athletic Training and Sports Performance programs at Wabash General Hospital, overseeing care for thousands of studentathletes across southern Illinois. Beyond his career, he is active in church leadership and community ministry. Mr. Cheesman and his wife, Kirby, have three children. He considers investing in his family to be his greatest privilege.
COLLEGE OF HEALTH SC i ENCES
DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN HEALTH SCIENCES
ATHLETiC TRAiNiNG
Ariana Davis (Lawrence, KS)
Self Efficacy of Athletic Trainers
Conducting Concussion Assessments of Dancers in Dance Medicine Settings
Courtney Brooke Geisel (Haslett, MI)
The Effects of 30 Minutes of Walking on Test Anxiety Among College Students: A Mixed-Methods Study
Israel J Peña (Canyon Lake, TX)
Coping Strategies to Stress in Secondary School Athletic Trainers: A MixedMethods Approach
HEALTH PROMOTiON & WELLNESS
Cristina Helene Marzorati (Westlake Village, CA)
Trauma Exposure and Coping SelfEfficacy in Graduate Occupational Therapy Students
Daniel Viscovich (Torrance, CA)
Self-Efficacy in Enacting Professional Competencies: A Study of BoardCertified Health & Wellness Coaches
HEALTHCARE LEADERSHiP & ADMiNiSTRATiON
Richard Peterson (Springville, UT)
Employee Perspectives of E-Leadership in Higher Education
William Sykes (Pleasant Grove, UT)
Beyond the Degree: Assessing the Transition from DPT Student to EntryLevel Clinician
HEALTHCARE PROFESSiONS EDUCATiON
Muhammad Jasim (Breinigsville, PA)
Faculty Perceptions of Physical Therapy
Intra-Professional Education (IaPE): Online vs. Onsite
HUMAN AND SPORTS PERFORMANCE
Glenn Harrison Smith (Whittier, CA)
Validation of a Smartphone-Based Computer Vision App for Measuring Countermovement Jump Performance and Sex-Based Differences in Jump Characteristics Among Collegiate Athletes
iNTEGRATED HEALTH SCiENCES
Kimberly Yost Driver (Flintstone, MD)
Understanding Factors that Influence Participation/Participation in HighIntensity Interval Training: A MixedMethods Study
Mariam Obas (West Palm Beach, FL)
The Perspectives and Experiences of Parents Raising French Bilingual Children in the United States
* indicates veteran # indicates student leadership
Theresa Richard (St Augustine, FL)
Speech-Language Pathologists’ Perceived Effectiveness of Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing for Dysphagia Assessment and Management in Skilled Nursing Facilities: An Explanatory Sequential Mixed-Methods Study
Emily Marie Gard Howell (Seattle, WA)
Perspectives of Children, Caregivers, and Physical Therapists Regarding Physical Therapy Services for Functional Neurologic Disorder
NEUROLOGiC REHABiLiTATiON
Robin Lucas Burns (Houston, TX)
A Framework to Assess Fidelity of Implementation of Competency-Based Education in Doctor of Physical Therapy Education
Andrea Riley (Alexandria, VA)
Caregiver Self-Efficacy in Relation to Training and Education of Dysphagia
Ryan Schrock (Gillette, WY)
Business Epidemiology in Physical Therapy: Investigating Incidence and Factors of Non-payment
PEDiATRiC SCiENCE
Jeanine David Goldner (Indianapolis, IN)
Effects of a Classroom-Based Motor Intervention on the Gross Motor, Balance, and Communication Skills of Children with Hearing Loss
Katherine Ann Warner (Abita Springs, LA)
Difficult Conversations in SpeechLanguage Pathology: A Mixed-Methods Study Exploring Parent and Provider Perspectives on Initial Diagnostic Communication
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN HEALTH SCIENCE
Carolina Camacho Barbosa (San Diego, CA)
Ashley Iverson (Salt Lake City, UT)
HEALTH PROMOTiON & WELLNESS
Rachel Tynan Richards (Saratoga Springs, UT)
DOCTOR OF NURSING PRACTICE
CLiNiCAL LEADERSHiP
Patricia Gilliano (St Augustine, FL)
Kaddie Kallon (Washington, DC)
* indicates
Ragnar Wert Scott (Grants Pass, OR)
Connie Srubar Soule (Franklin, NC)
EXECUTiVE LEADERSHiP
Destiny Garcia* (Salt Lake City, UT)
DOCTOR OF NURSING PRACTICE, FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER
Sumer Dawn Gutierrez (Springfield, MO)
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING, FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER
Amanda Aguilar (San Antonio, TX)
Kolton Anderson (Pleasant View, UT)
Allee Ashlock (Irvine, CA)
Jomari Cancel (Provo, UT)
Sharel Dale (Orangeville, UT)
Shawna Demmitt (Provo, UT)
Gleyson Freire (Paulo Afonso, Bahia, Brazil)
Amber Rose Gale (Saratoga Springs, UT)
Emily Rene Gandy (San Antonio, TX)
Alexandria Pipella Hardt (Salt Lake City, UT)
Kyley Hatch (Hurricane, UT)
McCall Hurt (North Ogden, UT)
Wendy Kaye McGee (Saratoga Springs, UT)
Brynlee F. McKague (Idaho Falls, ID)
Zachary Ryan Miller (Highland, UT)
Kathryn Ann Morgan (Centerville, UT)
Hailey Muilenburg (West Jordan, UT)
Sabrina Thuy Nguyen (Salt Lake City, UT)
Jourdyn Norton (Eagle Mountain, UT)
McKensie Ocana (Lehi, UT)
Jamie Quitoriano (Sarasota, FL)
Alicia Catherine Robinson (Sandy, UT)
Jackielyn Sanchez (Herriman, UT)
Makenna Smith (San Clement, CA)
Karissa Min Steele (West Jordan, UT)
Tamara Jane Thissen (Santa Rosa, CA)
Sierra Williams (Saratoga Springs, UT)
* indicates veteran # indicates student leadership
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN NURSING, FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER/PSYCHIATRIC MENTAL HEALTH NURSE PRACTITIONER
Melanie Clairese Baca (Springville, UT)
Madison Bell (Draper, UT)
Sarah Maria Berumen King (Herriman, UT)
MASTER
Linda Leanne Hall (Puyallup, WA)
Shanique Yassania Headley (Cambria Heights, NY)
Hazel Mariano (Provo, UT)
Malaree Weller (Washington, UT)
OF SCIENCE IN NURSING, PSYCHIATRIC MENTAL HEALTH NURSE PRACTITIONER
Kristie Leigh Allred (Pleasant Grove, UT)
Lezlie Anne Bartholomew (Spanish Fork, UT)
Kelly Bracken (Kinnelon, NJ)
Elizabeth Cantu (Redlands, CA)
Claire Elaine Cavinder (Idabel, OK)
Kelsey Conway (New York, NY)
Kaycie J. Davis (Woodland Hills, UT)
Shambray Galamb (Vineyard, UT)
Jacob Hamlin (Durham, NC)
Justin T. Nielson (Blanding, UT)
Jody Ward Palmer (Riverton, UT)
Thomas Ruzich (San Francisco, CA)
Shannon Nicole Urda (Edmond, OK)
William Dasi Yonga (Leander, TX)
EMERGENCY NURSE PRACTITIONER CERTIFICATE
Donna Jackson Sharpe (Clermont, FL)
FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER CERTIFICATE
Emily Ann Bowcutt (Ririe, ID)
Yuriko Martinez Hernandez (Salt Lake City, UT)
Molly Jubeck (Chandler, AZ)
Karen Lonsdale (American Fork, UT)
Kevin Shorten* (Spanish Fork, UT)
FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER CERTIFICATE/ EMERGENCY NURSE PRACTITIONER
CERTIFICATE
Scott Bagg (Northfield, VT)
FAMILY NURSE PRACTITIONER CERTIFICATE/
PSYCHIATRIC MENTAL HEALTH NURSE
PRACTITIONER CERTIFICATE
Michelle Chaffen (Olive Branch, MS)
Lisa Marie James (New Orleans, LA)
Brenda Martinez (Kingman, AZ)
Kevin De’sean Smith (San Bernardino, CA)
Robert A. Young (Albuquerque, NM)
PSYCHIATRIC MENTAL HEALTH NURSE
PRACTITIONER CERTIFICATE
Gaitrice M. Martin (Troutman, NC)
Domtila Mwei (Lessos, Kenya)
Lacey Rivera (South Jordan, UT) * indicates veteran # indicates student leadership
Rachel Romero Ortiz (Phoenix, AZ)
Liljana Sharelle Walker* (Greensboro, NC)
DOCTOR OF MEDICAL SCIENCE
ADVANCED CLiNiCAL PRACTiCE
Candra Bunn (Lehi, UT)
Keriann Giacomazza (Chester, NJ)
Austin John Harmon (Prescott Valley, AZ)
Patrick Cornelius Kearney (Shelburne, VT)
Jessica Rose Tessendorf (Chicago, IL)
HEALTHCARE LEADERSHiP & ADMiNiSTRATiON
Andrew R. Murphy (Syracuse, NY)
Elizabeth Hall Stearns (Scottsdale, AZ)
HEALTHCARE PROFESSiONS EDUCATiON
Michael Cheesman# (Mount Carmel, IL)
Meredith Gray Provost (Summerville, SC)
Kristen B. Schnurman (Springville, UT)
Brian Wood (Snowflake, AZ)
PSYCHiATRY
Jennifer Elizabeth Biggs (Wilmington, NC)
Emily Catherine Elkins (Arlington, TX)
Dorothy Fliou (Washington, DC)
Katherine Elisabeth Hulsey (Greenwood, IN)
David Garrett Jones (Layton, UT)
Tiffany Rochele Knudsen (Denver, CO)
Ann Mendenhall (Bainbridge Island, WA)
Tiffany Ann Pyle (South Jordan, UT)
Kyle C. Scott (Lander, WY)
Faustin Chad Vigil (South Jordan, UT)
Lu Wang# (Lincoln, NE)
MASTER OF MEDICAL SCIENCE (MASTER OF PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT STUDIES)
Gideon Palimakakoa Jin-Lung Aiwohi (Waiehu, HI)
Colby Baron (Orange, CA)
Bailey Bounds (Beckville, TX)
Lauren Broadhead (Meridian, ID)
Georgia Louise Brookstein# (Denver, CO)
Carson Call (Lehi, UT)
Kellie Lynn Campbell# (Warrenton, VA)
Victoria Carver (Lehi, UT)
Amanda Clark# (Corona, CA)
Heidi Collins# (Alpine, UT)
Landon Cook (Las Vegas, NV)
Dan Curtis (Layton, UT)
Liam Edgington (Edmond, OK)
Haley Ann Edone (Houston, TX)
Dominique Sage Elder (Saratoga Springs, UT)
Taylor Feitz (Kennesaw, GA)
Kelsey Glassberg (Tucson, AZ)
Clarissa Greenawalt (West Point, UT)
Ashton Hatfield (Morgan, UT)
Madelyn Hodson (Kaysville, UT)
Stephen Hood* (Norfolk, VA)
Mark Horner (Bismarck, ND)
Holly Hunt# (Mesa, AZ)
Ashlee Johnson# (Hattiesburg, MS)
Abby Ruth Linford (Millcreek, UT)
Kaitlyn McGregor (Snohomish, WA)
Kaylen McGuire (Cedar City, UT)
* indicates veteran # indicates student leadership
Brooke Mckeown (Moline, IL)
Mariana Midyette (Salt Lake City, UT)
Jennifer Ngo (Chandler, AZ)
Andrew David Nielsen# (Springville, UT)
Thomas Niles (Sacramento, CA)
Emma Kathryn Radke# (Charlotte, NC)
Natalie Richards# (Beaverton, OR)
Taylor Richardson# (Auburn, WA)
MacKenzie Ridley# (Boise, ID)
James Kayden Robinson (Lindon, UT)
Clarissa Seymour (Modesto, CA)
Sarah Shine (Wheaton, IL)
Sarah Bluth Stapp (Orem, UT)
MASTER OF MEDICAL SCIENCE
(MASTER OF PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT STUDIES) (CONTINUED)
Joshua Thompson (Mount Pleasant, UT)
Thien Truong (Westminster, CA)
Audrey Viso# (Baton Rouge, LA)
Whitney Weaver (Tucson, AZ)
Grace Whang (Livermore, CA)
Carly Williams (Bellingham, WA)
Dylan Thomas Wride (Riverton, UT)
Elizabeth Nicole Wuerch# (Richland, WA)
Breanna Young (Macomb, IL)
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN ADDICTIONS COUNSELING
Sherman Robinson (Vineyard, UT)
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN CLINICAL MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING
Joana AlbuquerquePeloso (New York, NY)
Katherine Sadie Atkinson (Orem, UT)
Elise Barton (Salt Lake City, UT)
Mary Melinda Bennett (Payson, UT)
Aaron Brantley (Holly Springs, NC)
Leah Brown (Crookston, MN)
Meagan Carper (Lander, UT)
Jessey Simons Chappell (Springville, VT)
Melissa McEuen Cheney (Orem, UT)
Addison Chilson (Salem, UT)
Rylie Davis (Boise, ID)
Veronica Chahua Davis (Mapleton, UT)
Marquita Dowler (Orem, UT)
Melissa Eggertsen (Roy, UT)
William Seth Elliott (Ephrata, WA)
Daren Mark Elmont (Springville, UT)
Brealle Hart Frasier (Oceanside, CA)
Janessa Fronce (Cedar Hills, UT)
Jemma M. GallioCarter (Panguitch, UT)
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN CLINICAL MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING (CONTINUED)
Alexi Gonzalez (Salt Lake City, UT)
Cambra Gordon (Caldwell, ID)
Rachel Gordon (Lehi, UT)
Kodi Gunter (Price, UT)
Virginia Stallard Grenier (St. George, UT)
Julina Hall (Athens, GA)
Elizabeth Hallabrin (Ogden, UT)
Alexander Michael Hibbard (Austin, TX)
Natalie Jenkins House (Sandy, UT)
Naomi Hunt (Charlotte, NC)
Keith Hardy Jenkins* (Sandy, UT)
Kylie Jo Jensen (South Jordan, UT)
Chandler Jones (South Jordan, UT)
Lynette Keller (Sandy, UT)
Hannah Kittleson (Albuquerque, NM)
Erin Christensen Kloepfer (Spanish Fork, UT)
Kennedy Langston (St. George, UT)
Misty Mann (St. George, UT)
Megan Janene Martin (Orem, UT)
Brett McKell (Concord, CA)
Justin Kent Moses (Mapleton, UT)
Alison Marie Nagliati (Billings, MT)
Stormie Gee Norton (Nephi, UT)
* indicates veteran # indicates student leadership
Ann Elizabeth Olson (Salt Lake City, UT)
Lindsey N. Peterson (Cedar City, UT)
Amy Poff (South Weber, UT)
Ashley Regulski (Sandy, UT)
Kylie Kay Reynolds (Payson, UT)
Tyler Richter (Roy, UT)
Holly Nielson Riding (Goshen, UT)
Sherman Robinson (Vineyard, UT)
William Tanner (Mapleton, UT)
Glow Tesch (Draper, UT)
Chelsey Young (Enoch, UT)
David James Zimmerman (Kaysville, UT)
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN SCHOOL COUNSELING
Katherine Sadie Atkinson (Orem, UT)
Wendy Checketts (Riverton, UT)
Melissa McEuen Cheney (Orem, UT)
Daylon M. Deeds* (San Diego, CA)
Alexander Dooley (Riverton, UT)
Michelle Dyreng (Manti, UT)
Alyson Evans (Logandale, NV)
Kodi Gunter (Price, UT)
Elizabeth Hallabrin (Ogden, UT)
Brianna Hokama (Saratoga Springs, UT)
Aubrey Paige Holley (Providence, UT)
Kylie Jo Jensen (South Jordan, UT)
Stormie Gee Norton (Nephi, UT)
Holly Nielson Riding (Goshen, UT)
Valerie Scott (Hurricane, UT)
Hilary Joy Stewart (Riverton, UT)
CLINICAL MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING CERTIFICATE
Tess Larsen (Syracuse, UT)
IN MEMORIAM
We honor the memory of our student who passed away before completing his journey. He remains a vital part of the Class of 2026.
Caden J. Phillips (Payson, UT)
Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, Cohort 13
* indicates veteran # indicates student leadership
COLLEGE OF REHABiLiTATiON SCiENCES
DOCTOR OF SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY
Sierra Ariel Arceneaux (Rosharon, TX)
Leah Beranek (Torrance, CA)
Alana Garcia-Chavez (Tracy, CA)
Corrine Michelle Irwin (Lancaster, CA)
Amy Nitta (Arvada, CO)
Lindsay DeAnn Perko (Aliquippa, PA)
Annese Jakeia Richardson (Charleston, SC)
Kathleen RodriguezUkes (Placentia, CA)
Iris Sanchez (Mission, TX)
Hannah Lea Schafer (West Concord, MN)
Nadia Navai Townsend (San Jose, CA)
Alyssa Anne Van Vossen (Houston, TX)
CLiNiCAL RESEARCH
Haley Jo Askew (Arkadelphia, AR)
Thelma I Aviles (Nanuet, NY)
Buffy Boger (Dickens, TX)
Allison Marie Bouma (Indian Head Park, IL)
Alexis Gilliam Coe (Columbia, SC)
Sarah Davis (Woodbridge, VA)
Genevieve DeVeyra (Cameron, NC)
Colleen Easton (Medina, OH)
Melina Elliott (Manhattan Beach, CA)
Montoya Franklin (Charlotte, NC)
Odalys Gomez (Santa Ana, CA)
Maria Elizabeth Grover (Lyles, TN)
Jacqueline Dale HallKatter (Indianapolis, IN)
Alexis Monét Harris (Columbus, MS)
Joycelyn Roseta Henderson# (Union, SC)
Katherine Leigh Hutchings (San Jose, CA)
Santoya Nicole Joyner (Los Angeles, CA)
Nidhin Kurian (Manteca, CA)
Kierra Alexis Lynch (West Chester, PA)
Elizabeth Maharaj (Long Island, NY)
Karie Michelle Marsh (Ventura, CA)
Alexis M. Mazik (New Philadelphia, OH)
Abigail Louise O’Donnell (Dayton, OH)
Railen Brionne Parker (New Orleans, LA)
DOCTOR OF SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY (CONTINUED)
Sarah Fee Peters (York, PA)
Kelly Elizabeth Ruth (Mohrsville, PA)
Raven Robinson Smith (Birmingham, AL)
Tiffany Daniels Spivey (DeSoto, TX)
Margaret Johanna Szulga (Northborough, MA)
Kyla Luisa Marie Thrasher* (Tyrone, GA)
Elli Tsourapis (Queens, NY)
Jeanie Winston (Saint Augustine, FL)
Scout Dakota Wolfe (Phoenix, AZ)
HEALTHCARE PROFESSiONS EDUCATiON
Walaa Madkour
Abdallah (Queens, NY)
Erica Lee Egnew (Gilbert, AZ)
Michelle Marie Ferrell (Tulsa, OK)
Marissa Ann Galin (San Jose, CA)
Kara Lee Hamilton (Vernal, UT)
Ashley Dawn Marshall (Ladoga, IN)
Deena Garcia Peterson (El Paso, TX)
Shamia Nichols White (Tulsa, OK)
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN MEDICAL SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY
Natasha Bateman (South Jordan, UT)
Katelyn Baxter-Moran (Gulfport, MS)
Rachel Ann Brown* (Farmington, NM)
Linly Camille Budden# (Klamath Falls, OR)
Kylee Crook (Spanish Fork, UT)
Ciara Estrada# (Carlsbad, CA)
Timbre Deene Hughes# (Rocklin, CA)
Aubri Jameson (Syracuse, UT)
Belle Jessop# (Lehi, UT)
Olivia Johnson# (Salt Lake City, UT)
* indicates veteran # indicates student leadership
Leslie Elise LeBaron# (Cypress, CA)
McKenna Louise Marks (Spanish Fork, UT)
Carley Nicole Meijer (Los Angeles, CA)
Aubrey Bennett Pablico (Los Angeles, CA)
Jordan Pearson# (Tucson, AZ)
MASTER OF SCIENCE IN MEDICAL SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY (CONTINUED)
Dessi Sierra Pitts# (Jackson, MS)
Aditi Madhusudan Rao (Mysore, India)
Kylie Louise Ray# (Santa Fe, TX)
Jenna Marie Redman (Lander, WY)
Zachary Reid (Runnells, IA)
Megan Singson (Spanish Fork, UT)
Sarah Kay Swanson (Ball Ground, GA)
POST-PROFESSIONAL DOCTOR OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
AGiNG
Alejandro Martinez (Tama, IA)
Darlyn Motas San Jose (Hercules, CA)
EDUCATiON
Donna Haylock de la Garza (Port Isabel, TX)
Becky Jo Johnson (Andover, MN)
Chelsey Marie Nicholson (Surprise, AZ)
Michelle L. Sanders (Merrillville, ID)
Shelly Walentiny (Tulsa, OK)
Zena Yolanda Warren (Washington, DC)
HAND THERAPY
Megan Melissa Brunell (Lakewood, CO)
HEALTH & WELLNESS COACHiNG
Felicia Ann Martinez (Brownsville, TX)
LEADERSHiP
Jasmine Francine Jenkins (Monee, IL)
Brian Johnson (Melbourne, FL)
MASTER OF OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
Alejandra Carrillo (Rancho Cucamonga, CA)
Tierra Davis (Portland, OR)
Patricia Dworzak (Albuquerque, NM)
Elizabeth D Gray (West Jordan, UT)
Meredith Mckie Griffith (Eastsound, WA)
Marissa Hannah (Las Vegas, NV)
Madeline Hill (Heber City, UT)
Dekka Lace Hunley (Prescott, AZ)
Magdalen Kneidel (Lawrence, KS)
Heather Elaine Laymon (Harrisville, UT)
Rachel Katelin Lester (Fort Payne, AL)
Julia Song Lim (Mountlake Terrace, WA)
JaNeal Irish Madruga (Lehi, UT)
Kelsey Elizabeth Miller (Elizabeth, CO)
Kelly Murata (Sandusky, OH)
Jeffrey Peay (Clinton, UT)
Kelsey Stafford (Collegeville, PA)
Alexander Van Durme (Colorado Springs, CO)
Julie Wait (Los Alamitos, CA)
Andrea Zamora (Los Angeles, CA)
College Dean
COLLEGE AND PROGRAM LEADERSHiP
COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES
Ericka P. Zimmerman
EdD, LAT, ATC, FNAP
DOCTOR OF PHiLOSOPHY iN HEALTH SCiENCES
Program Director
Jennifer Austin McCrae PhD, LAT, ATC, GTS
Concentration Track Directors
Athletic Training
Jennifer Austin McCrae PhD, LAT, ATC, GTS
Health Promotion & Wellness
Mary P. Shotwell PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA
Healthcare Leadership & Administration
Jennifer Austin McCrae PhD, LAT, ATC, GTS
Healthcare Professions Education
Jennifer Austin McCrae PhD, LAT, ATC, GTS
Human & Sport Performance
Victor Romano EdD, DHSc, CSCS
integrated Health Sciences
Jennifer Austin McCrae PhD, LAT, ATC, GTS
Neurologic Rehabilitation
Kristen Johnson PT, EdD, MS, NCS
Orthopedic Sports Science
Erin M. Florkiewicz PhD, LAT, ATC
Pediatric Science
Jane K. Sweeney PT, MS, PhD, PCS, FAPTA
MASTER OF SCiENCE iN HEALTH SCiENCE
Program Director
Kim Isaac PhD, LAT, ATC
DEPARTMENT OF NURSiNG
Department Chair & Doctor of Nursing Practice Program Director
Janet Noles PhD, APRN, FNP-BC, FAANP
EMERGENCY NURSE PRACTiTiONER Program Director
Kristina Davis DNP, ENP-C, FNP-C, AGACNP-BC, PMHNP-C
FAMiLY NURSE PRACTiTiONER Program Director
Megan O’Neil DNP, APRN, FNP-C, OCN
PSYCHiATRiC MENTAL HEALTH NURSE PRACTiTiONER Program Director
Allyce Jones DNP, MSN, PMHNP-BC, APRN, NCMP, PMH-C
COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES (CONTINUED)
DOCTOR OF MEDiCAL SCiENCE
Program Director
Bartley Rust DHSc, PA-C
Concentration Track Directors
Health Professions Education
Laura McElhaney DHSc, MHE, PA-C, CLS (ASCP)
Healthcare Leadership Administration
J. Mace Hamblin DHSc, MPA
Psychiatry
Tim McCreary
DMSc, PA-C, PSY-CAQ
MASTER OF MEDiCAL SCiENCE
Program Director
Bryan Nelson
DMSc, MMS, PA-C
Assistant Program Director
Jonathan Baird DMSc, PA-C, ATC
Director of Didactic Education
Lauren Stanford
DMSc, MPAS, PA-C
Director of Clinical Education
Amber Collins PhD, MEd
Assistant Director of Clinical Education
Jennifer Orchard MPA, JD
Director of Program Operations
Cecile Pryor PhD, MPH
Medical Director
Eric Smart MD, FACEP
DEPARTMENT OF PROFESSiONAL COUNSELiNG
interim Program Director
Tiffany Nielson PhD, LPC (ID), LPC (IL), NCC
Assistant Program Director of Clinical Placements
Kevin V. Knutson PhD, LCMHC, NCC, ACS
COLLEGE OF OPTOMETRIC MEDICINE
DOCTOR OF OPTOMETRY
interim College Dean
Donnie C. Akers
OD
interim Assistant Dean of Academic Affairs
Zanna Kruoch
OD, FAAO, FSLS, AAO Dipl Anterior Segment Section
Assistant Dean of Clinical Affairs
Court Wilkins OD, MHS, FAAO
COLLEGE OF REHABILITATION SCIENCES
College Dean
Jeff Lau PT, DPT, PhD, CMPT
DOCTOR OF SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY
Program Director
Sandra Seaman PhD, CCC-SLP, F-OSLHA
Assistant Program Director
Courtney V. Moore ClinScD, CCC-SLP
Capstone Coordinator
Kelly Hawkins ClincScD, CCC-SLP
Concentration Track Director, Healthcare Professions Education
Amber Heape CScD, CCC-SLP, FNAP
MASTER OF SCiENCE iN MEDiCAL SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY
Program Director
Wendy Chase MA, CCC-SLP, CHSE
Director of Clinical Education
ElBea Stonier MS, CCC-SLP
DEPARTMENT OF OCCUPATiONAL THERAPY
Department Chair & Doctor of Occupational Therapy Program Director
Bryan Gee PhD., OTD, OTR/L, BCP, CLA, CTH-AH, FAOTA
Academic Fieldwork Coordinator
Keren Shavit-Buckley EdD, MS, OTR/L
Doctoral Capstone Coordinator
Kristin Domville PhD, DrOT, OTR/L
POST-PROFESSiONAL DOCTOR OF OCCUPATiONAL THERAPY
Program Director
Matt P. Malcolm PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA
Doctoral Capstone Coordinator
Robert Krueger PhD, OTD, OTR/L
Concentration Track Directors
Advanced Practice
Ellen Hudgins OTD, OTR/L, ITOT
Aging
Matt P. Malcolm PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA
Education
Robert Krueger PhD, OTD, OTR/L
Hand Therapy
Ellen Hudgins OTD, OTR/L, ITOT
Leadership
Ellen Hudgins OTD, OTR/L, ITOT
Pediatrics
Latoya Henry OTD, OTR/L
COLLEGE OF REHABILITATION SCIENCES (CONTINUED)
MASTER OF OCCUPATiONAL THERAPY PROGRAM
Program Director
Sheri Montgomery EdD, OTD, OTR/L, FAOTA
Academic Fieldwork Coordinator
Danielle Acurio PP-OTD, OTR/L
DOCTOR OF PHYSiCAL THERAPY
Department Chair & Program Director
Steven G. Wilkinson PT, PhD
Associate Program Director
Joel Tenbrink PT, DPT
Assistant Program Directors
Miriam Cortez-Cooper PT, PhD
Michael Bartholomew PT, DPT, PhD, GCS, CEEAA
Co-Directors of Clinical Education
Timothy Stevenson PT, DPT, PhD, OCS
Will Sykes PT, DPT
Director of Accreditation and Assessment
F. David Paulson PT, DPT, OCS
NEONATOLOGY FELLOWSHiP
Jane K. Sweeney PT, MS, PhD, PCS, FAPTA
Dr. Michael Skurja, Jr. Chair
Dr. Gregory D. Myer Vice Chair
Mr. Michael Held Treasurer
Dr. Susan Lucht Secretary
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Dr. Jessica Egbert
Dr. Geralyn Frandsen
Dr. Leah I. Fullman
Dr. Sunnie Giles
Dr. Lily S. Hsu
Dr. Cindy Mathena
Dr. Michael Nelson
Dr. James Suel
Dr. Rogan L. Taylor
Dr. Roy Zwahlen
Dr. Cameron K. Martin ex officio
UNIVERSITY ADMINISTRATION & OFFICERS
Dr. Cameron K. Martin
University President & Chief Executive Officer
Dr. Malissa Martin
Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs & Provost
Mr. Jeffrey B. Bate
Executive Vice President of Finance and Operations & Chief Financial Officer
Mr. Stephen L. Whyte
Executive Vice President of University Relations
Mr. Richard Peterson
Chief of Staff, Office of the President
Ms. Dana Marsh
Vice President of Enrollment, Marketing & Communications
Dr. Richard P. Nielsen
RMU Co-Founder, Vice President of Wasatch Educational, Inc.
RMU FOUNDERS
Dr. Michael Skurja, Jr.
RMU Co-Founder, President of Wasatch Educational, Inc.
Mr. Dan Harmuth
Vice President of Technology & Innovation/ Chief Information Officer
Mr. Jeffrey L. Fisher
Senior Executive Director of the RMU Foundation
Mr. Matt Wride General Counsel
Dr. Tom Cappaert Vice Provost
Ms. Tanya Snelson
Sr. Executive Assistant, Office of the President
Dr. Larry T. Hall
RMU Co-Founder
WELCOME
TO THE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
On behalf of the Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions Alumni Association, we congratulate you on graduating from RMU and officially welcome you as a new member of the Alumni Association. As you now embark on the next phase of your life, know that you are part of an incredible network of more than 5,300 healthcare professionals who are alumni of Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions.
As a graduate, you have access to the following:
• 15% tuition discount on a future certificate or program
• 15% tuition discount on RMU PEAKS continuing education offerings
• Library resources and research databases
• Access to alumni reunions and University events
We encourage you to get involved, be informed, and stay connected as alumni. To learn more, visit rm.edu/alumni.
Congratulations, graduates!