Summit Magazine 2023

SUMMIT T A K I N G

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C A M P U S C LO S E - U P After months of construction, RMU unveiled the newly renovated RMU Tower. Curious for details? Turn to page 21 to see the ribbon cutting!

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Celebrating the past, looking to the future

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hat a year of change, growth, and celebration for Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMU). On January 1, 2023, I took the helm of this great institution as the second President in its 25-year history. What an honor to take up the mission laid out by our founders to advance knowledge and healthcare.

educational experience and offer courses to a broader range of professionals.

While this year has been full of celebrating 25 years, we are actively looking to the future and what RMU can become. Our newest college, the College of Optometry, welcomed its first cohort this year because we foresaw a need for optometric education and physicians. We also started our entrylevel Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD) program as a way to offer future occupational therapists nationwide the opportunity to earn their doctorate and learn from where they live.

As we grow, we are making our mark in Provo, Utah, and the nation as a leader in graduate healthcare education.

Our programs educate tomorrow’s healthcare professionals, who all leave here with a sense of service. Not only are our students nationwide, but our faculty are as well. We seek the best and brightest, and our faculty are leading experts in their field.

Every person touched by RMU, whether it’s our faculty, staff, students, alumni, or the communities we serve, feels the energy of advancing knowledge and healthcare.

RMU continues to evaluate what opportunities are needed in the healthcare industry and how we can fulfill those needs. We are exploring the latest technological advances to enhance our

We’re immensely proud that our graduates have a high job placement rate, demonstrating that students leave here employable, ready to serve, and able to impact their communities with the vision of improving the human condition.

I look forward to serving as President of Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions and intend to make a positive impact on the RMU Community as they have made an impact on me.

You make a difference!

Dr. Cameron K. Martin University President & CEO Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions

My vision is to continue perpetuating our culture of high-quality education, datadriven decisions, community, and service.

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summit magazine

is published annually for alumni, faculty, students, and friends of the university. dr. cameron k. martin university president & ceo

T H IS ISSUE

stephen l. whyte executive vice president , communications & external relations

tyler anderson senior director of university marketing & communications

rachel richards director of university communications , managing editor

jody genessy senior content writer

mckinsey kaanapu brand & design manager

elaina lanier graphic designer

tanner grenko university videographer & photographer

nathan judd university videographer

dustin winter marketing coordinator

anna lebaron

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alumni relations coordinator

the views expressed in this magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect official university policy

contact us send comments on this issue and story ideas for future issues to: university marketing & communications 1800 s novell place provo, ut 84606 news@rm.edu | 801.734.6798

FEATURES

HIGHLIGHTS

11 MEET THE MARTINS

05 AFFECTING HEALTHCARE

19 CELEBRATING 25 YEARS nondiscrimination policy rocky mountain university of health professions affirms its commitment to fairness and equity, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, citizenship, personal appearance, religion (including no religion) or faith, political affiliation, economic status, disability (including whether physical or mental), age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, veteran status, predisposing genetic characteristics, domestic violence victim status, or any other protected category or group under applicable local, state, or federal law, including protection from those opposing discrimination, attempting to prevent retaliation, or participating in any resolution process. for more information visit rm.edu/compliance

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A Milestone Marked with Joy and Revelry

41 THE EYES HAVE IT

RMU Eye Institute Offers the Latest in Eye Treatments

25 Years: A Vision in Action

08 Love & Lift

Inauguration Ceremony Advances RMU's Future

33 A JOURNEY TO

RESTORED VISION and a Medical-Focused Optometry Career

19 25

33

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45

41

EVERY ISSUE 25 ADVANCING KNOWLEDGE

35 FACULTY FEATURE

23 ADVANCING HEALTHCARE

45 ALUMNI IMPACT

Counseling Alumni Making a Positive Impact on the World

Emergency Nurse Practitioners: Enhancing Skills & Confidence for Critical Care

Tim McCreary: Man on a Mission Is Passionate About Providing Psychiatric Care

Mark Campbell, PhD: Pioneering the Nature Wellness Connection and Transforming Lives

29 COMMUNITY IMPACT

RMU Health Clinics a Win-Win for the Community and Students

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Affecting

Healthcare 25 Years: A Vision In Action

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wenty five years ago, Dr. Richard P. Nielsen, Dr. Michael Skurja, Jr., and Dr. Larry T. Hall envisioned an idea for healthcare and higher education in some unusual places around Utah County. They drew up plans on napkins (as pictured), mulled over their vision during meals from a Sizzler booth, and dreamed out loud in the basement of a modest physical therapy clinic.

Despite all odds, the visionaries went out and made it happen.

“It’s been a brutal journey getting over all the hurdles,” Dr. Nielsen admitted. “But Mike and I are pretty tenacious, and we made a decision way back then, saying, ‘If we’re going to do this, we have to be all in.’”

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Based on their conversations, napkin mapping, and that all-in commitment, Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMU) emerged from humble ambition, endured financial and strategic challenges, evolved with obstacles and opportunities, and expanded into an even larger force for good than its founders boldly imagined.

The ripples of health and wellness continue to spread around and far beyond their origins.

Degree(s) of Success Originally called Rocky Mountain University of Physical Therapy, RMU began with eight students, ten faculty, and six employees in 1998. Now, the Provo, Utah-based institution is a renowned and accredited university

in an expanding campus with a wide variety of programs and clinics.

What started as a lofty vision by two retired U.S. Navy healthcare providers (Dr. Nielsen and Dr. Skurja) and a university professor (Dr. Hall) has become a nimble, self-sufficient, and sustainable university dedicated to advancing healthcare knowledge and practices by training highly skilled professionals in needed healthcare disciplines. Since 1998, RMU has prepared thousands of students to excel as clinicians, educators, researchers, and healthcare leaders with a noble vision and passion for humanity.

The graduate healthcare education institution offers 24 degress and a variety of continuing education courses; educates thousands of healthcare professionals,

featuring alumni in all 50 states and multiple countries; employs hundreds of people in Utah and around the nation — a workforce that Dr. Nielsen considers “the magic sauce” of the RMU success story; and helps communities meet their medical needs through education, clinical treatment, and volunteer service.

An Ever-Increasing Alumni With an ever-increasing alumni base of more than 4,000 healthcare professionals, RMU continues to make a positive impact on the lives and medical needs of countless people around the world. The University’s expansive healthcare scope ranges from medical treatment provided by Universitytrained physician assistants and nursing practitioners, counseling and psychiatry, speech-language pathology care, optometry services, electrophysiology,

physical and occupational therapy, athletic training, functional nutrition education, healthcare leadership and administration, rehabilitation work, and general health and wellness.

RMU President and CEO Dr. Cameron K. Martin summarizes the why of RMU’s mission in five words: “To improve the human condition.” During the ribboncutting ceremony for the University’s new headquarters in June 2023, President Martin summed up the how in seven words: “To love and lift those in need.”

“That’s what we do, that’s why we do it, and it’s also how we do it,” he said. “We do it by training our students to be experts in their chosen fields of healthcare — to see, love, and

lift those they serve, patients across the country. It’s a wonderful mission.”

The manifestation of the focus of the founders is evidenced by the University’s student success outcomes, including: 90% retention rate, 86% graduation rate, 96% job placement rate, and a 0% student loan default rate.

“

we do it by training our students to be experts in their chosen fields of healthcare — to see, love, and lift those they serve.”

Approximately 30% of RMU’s students are residential, while 70% learn online or through a hybrid approach between online and periodic oncampus personal training that engages students from across the U.S.

Students Come to Campus In 2000, RMU added the Master of Physical Therapy program and changed the name from Rocky Mountain University of Physical Therapy to Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. Ten years later, RMU began its first residential program, the Doctor of Physical Therapy program.

The University branched out even further, adding more residential programs, the Master of Physician Assistant Studies program founded in 2015. Just two years later, RMU initiated its Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program. Another groundbreaking event took place in 2021 when the University introduced the College of Optometry, which was the first of its kind in Utah and the Intermountain West.

Important Stamp of Approval A seminal moment for RMU — a miracle, as Dr. Nielsen describes it — happened in 2010 when a decade-plus worth of preparation and perspiration culminated in the University gaining accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and 6 | SUMMIT MAGAZINE

Universities (NWCCU). That elite status by the Commission, recognized by the United States Department of Education, was reaffirmed in 2020.

This institutional accreditation process is important as it fosters excellence through criteria and guidelines, encourages achievement and improvement through clearly defined objectives, and recognizes the integrity, performance, and quality of education these educational institutions provide.

Along with RMU, the NWCCU has given its stamp of approval to dozens of higher education institutions including Brigham Young University, the University of Utah, Utah Valley University, Boise State University, Gonzaga University, the University of Montana, the University of Oregon, the University of AlaskaAnchorage, the University of Nevada-Las Vegas, and the University of Washington.

Service-based Success RMU prides itself on being a place of success where the student learning experience and service to the community and those in need are paramount.

Regardless of circumstances, individuals in the community are assisted through the RMU Health Clinics: the Center for Communication Disorders, the Community Rehabilitation Clinic, the RMU Counseling Clinic, and the RMU Eye Institute.

Through the RMU Foundation, more than 23,044 volunteer hours equaling approximately $6.49 million in services have been rendered in pro-bono services through RMU’s clinics to community members in need since 2014.

The University partners with the United Way, Provo City, and other respected organizations to provide services.

International philanthropy efforts — from Mexico to Africa and Europe — are also fundamental to RMU’s mission.

RMU alumni enhance the nation’s healthcare in some of the most challenging environments — from remote rural areas with limited infrastructure and resources in areas 7 | SUMMIT MAGAZINE

like North Pole, Alaska, and Thayne, Wyoming, to underrepresented communities where patients’ healthcare access is highly subsidized by the government, such as Laredo, Texas, Jackson, Tennessee, and Mansfield, Ohio. More than 68% of RMU alumni work in communities with aboveaverage economic needs and income inequality. And 56% work where the rates of medically uninsured are above national averages.

Looking Ahead to the Next 25 Years Simply put, RMU is helping to lift the healthcare quality for those in need both economically and medically.

Serving as the University’s second president, President Martin has committed to build on the countless lessons learned and successes gained from the past 25 years. That forward push is well underway with the revolutionary College of Optometry, and the state-of-the-art RMU Eye

Institute. In August 2023, the University also made an important hire in new Chief Information Officer Daniel Harmuth. Moving ahead, RMU will focus on enhancing technological capabilities and reach, propelling cutting-edge advancements and digital solutions, and further equipping students with the tools and knowledge to become future healthcare leaders.

“RMU is perfectly aligned and positioned to meet the graduate educational healthcare needs throughout our nation,” President Martin said. “I am deeply humbled to lead and build upon RMU’s vision to improve the human condition.

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, experiential learning, and state-of-the-art facilities.” k

By Jody Genessy

Love & Lift:

Inauguration Ceremony Advances RMU's Future

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n a heartwarming celebration of academic and healthcare excellence, Dr. Cameron K. Martin was inaugurated as the second President of Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMU) on October 6, 2023.

More than 700 students, faculty, staff, community members, and local and national leaders in education, healthcare, business, religion, nonprofits, and government came together at the Utah Valley Convention Center in Provo, Utah, for the inauguration ceremony. The energy was high, and attendees embraced each other warmly and chatted in the aisles as they waited for the event to begin.

The event garnered the support of community and institutional leaders from all over Utah. Provo City Mayor Michelle Kaufusi was among multiple Utah County leaders in attendance. In addition, Brigham Young University President Shane Reese, Representative Burgess Owens

of Utah’s 4th Congressional District, and former Utah Speaker of the House of Representatives Brad Wilson were a few of RMU’s government partners who delivered supportive messages via video.

“I think he’s the man for the season,” President Reese said of President Martin.

“He is going to be a phenomenal leader at Rocky Mountain, and he has my full support as he starts this role.”

The historic ceremony took the audience on a journey of RMU’s past, present, and future while celebrating President Martin’s life and career. The event included an academic processional and unveiling of the RMU Ceremonial Mace.

Broadway actor and singer Dallyn Vail Bayles set a beautiful tone with soullifting renditions of “The Impossible Dream” and “Bring Him Home.”

Community leaders voiced their support with touching tributes and inspiring speeches. World-renowned artist, Tom Holdman, surprised President Martin with a handcrafted crystal sculpture of a

golden heart in an open hand, artistically emphasizing the hand in RMU’s logo and symbolizing an everlasting pursuit of loving and lifting one another.

In a video message, Utah Governor Spencer J. Cox lauded the significance of this occasion. “RMU plays an important part of the educational offering of our great state. Utah and our entire nation have a great need right now for highly skilled healthcare professionals,” Governor Cox said.

“The university is fortunate to continue its successful trajectory under the leadership of President Martin.”

The invocation for the inauguration was offered by Elder Matthew S. Holland, a General Authority Seventy of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and former Utah Valley University President, for whom President Cameron Martin served as his Vice President.

Congressman John R. Curtis of Utah’s 3rd Congressional District extended 8 | SUMMIT MAGAZINE

University to even greater heights while ensuring the institution continues its legacy of advancing knowledge and advancing healthcare to improve the human condition. His areas of focus include strengthening and strategically expanding RMU’s graduate healthcare programs, enhancing engagement with industry partners throughout Utah and

“ WATCH VIDEO Left to Right: First Lady Julie Martin, Cecile Pryor (Mace Bearer), and President Martin

warm greetings on behalf of government partners. “Cameron Martin’s DNA is all about loving and lifting those around him,” Representative Curtis said. “Plenty of people are creative and hardworking, but Cameron is all those things, and he cares about individuals enough to make good things happen in their lives. I believe the best days for RMU are yet to come.”

The inaugural address was given

by Dr. W. Rolfe Kerr, former Utah Commissioner of Higher Education, former President of Utah Tech University (formerly Dixie State University), and Emeritus General Authority of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As President Martin's fatherin-law, his words resonated deeply.

The three co-founders of RMU, Dr. Richard P. Nielsen, Dr. Michael Skurja, Jr., and Dr. Larry T. Hall, were recognized for the legacy they built with hard work, dedication, and a core value of service.

Everyone in the ballroom experienced feelings of gratitude for the institution’s first 25 years and was uplifted and optimistic about the impact RMU students, alumni, faculty, staff, and administration will continue to make in the healthcare industry and in their communities.

"It is exciting to witness the union of this outstanding and promising individual with this outstanding and promising institution,” said Kerr. “President Martin and Rocky Mountain University are already coming together in a dynamic model of synergy—that amazing process where ‘the whole becomes greater than the sum of the parts.’ I assure you with confidence that your new president is capable and committed to do everything within his power to effectively lead this university.”

Addressing the excited crowd, President Martin said, “RMU’s culture is focused on loving and lifting ‘the one’ in pursuit of improving the human condition for ‘the many.’ I use the words ‘love and lift’ deliberately. People need and want to be loved. In other words, patients want to be seen for who they are, met where they are, and have a voice in their health plans and treatments, which is how RMU students are trained.”

The event was about the future of the University and also celebrated the past.

President Martin's vision will bring the

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i am humbled and excited to build upon rmu’s mission and vision to improve the human condition.”

the nation to meet workforce needs, and elevating RMU’s reputation for healthcare excellence across the country.

"I am humbled and excited to build upon RMU's mission and vision to improve the human condition," President Martin said enthusiastically. "Our institution is meeting graduate educational healthcare needs throughout our nation. Working together with our incredible students, faculty, and staff, we will elevate the notability of our advanced modern healthcare curriculum, experiential learning, and state-of-the-art facilities." k

By Rachel Richards

Left to Right: Gayle and Tom Holdman, President Martin

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Martins MEET THE

I

ntroducing RMU’s First Family — President Cameron K. Martin, his wife, Julie, and their daughters, Makenna, Malynn, and Maryn. Join us as we dive into their personal stories, hobbies, favorite memories, and aspirations. From heartwarming family vacations to hilarious moments, it’s time to meet the Martins!

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Cameron

From Two-Sport Athlete to University Leadership Dr. Cameron K. Martin hails from the picturesque landscapes of Oregon.

Born in Roseburg and raised in Eugene, his early years were defined by his love for sports. In efforts to broaden Cameron’s interests beyond sports, his parents limited him to play only two organized sports a year. He participated in soccer, football, basketball, baseball, golf, tennis, and track at different stages of his youth. But it wasn’t all about athletics for Cameron; he also had a knack for building things. For most of his youth, the furniture in his bedroom had been made by either his father or himself. At 10, he engineered his version of a Big Wheel, using a unicycle and two bike wheels.

Cameron’s parents insisted he explore music in addition to sports, which

led him to learn piano and trumpet.

Cameron’s love for music was fueled when he listened to Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture with his dad, picking out the sounds of the different instruments. The trumpet’s melodious tones captivated him, and he played it through junior high and part of high school until braces put a halt to his musical interests. Tired of unhooking his lips from his braces, he put away his trumpet and continued his focus on sports and other endeavors such as student government and scouting.

“

every job i have ever had, including those of my youth, has helped prepare me for the opportunity to be president of rmu.”

In a PE class, he was putting his soccer skills to use and practicing kicking field goals until the PE teacher/school football coach arrived. That particular class turned into a “try-out” of sorts where the coach placed him at different positions, with the entire class as spectators. This led Cameron to join the football team as the place kicker, in addition to his position on the soccer team, both fall sports in Oregon.

With a schedule packed with school, work, and soccer and football practices and games, Cameron learned the value of hard work. His dedication was evident as he would transition from football team training to hurriedly removing his pads and joining soccer practice.

The two teams had a bit of an in-school rivalry. One memorable soccer game, against a highly ranked team, turned into a heartwarming moment when the football coach ended practice early and encouraged the team to attend the soccer game and loudly cheer on Cameron. With the football players in attendance and rallying behind him, the soccer team went into overtime and secured a thrilling victory.

Cameron had an entrepreneurial spirit and started his own landscaping business as a teen. Initially, he provided services to neighbors, but

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his determination saw him pushing a lawnmower and pulling an edger for miles around to tend to various homes.

In partnership with his friend who had a truck, Cameron was able to land numerous new clients, including real estate agents and banks with foreclosure homes. At 14, one of Cameron’s jobs

was to help remove an oak tree at Reed and Cross, a local boutique store. His hard work caught the attention of the store’s owner, and when he was old enough to drive, he took a job at the store where he handled a range of tasks from plumbing and painting to gift wrapping and floral deliveries.

He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Gerontology, a Master of Public Administration, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Foundations, all from Brigham Young University (BYU). His doctoral research focused on the value and role of an interim university president.

Before joining RMU, Cameron was the Vice President of University Relations at Utah Valley University (UVU) and worked for the Utah System of Higher Education (USHE) as an Associate Commissioner for Economic Development and Planning.

“Every job I have ever had, including those of my youth, has helped prepare me for the opportunity to be President of RMU,” Cameron said. “While at UVU and USHE, I worked with and was mentored by many presidents who all taught me many helpful things — things to emulate and avoid. My time with those organizations was priceless for helping me realize how a scarcity mindset is limiting while an abundance mindset leads to a flourishing institution and community.”

Julie

The Heartbeat of the Martin Family Beside President Martin stands Julie, the heart of the Martin family and the First Lady of RMU. Growing up in various locations across Utah due to her father’s career in Higher Education Administration, Julie’s formative years were a mosaic of experiences that taught her the value of adaptability and the importance of building lasting relationships. In her youth, she enjoyed sports, horseback riding, violin, and piano, and was a cheerleader and Business Sterling Scholar in high school.

Julie returned to St. George, where she lived as a child, to attend the school her father was once President of — Utah Tech University (then Dixie College) — and graduated with an Associates Degree.

She transferred to BYU, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Health Science, with an emphasis in family health.

Though Julie was interested in health sciences, without specifically planning it, she always had jobs in education. She worked for several years at BYU over student and multicultural recruitment in the Admissions Division in School Relations. “I had some amazing experiences working in this capacity with first-generation college students,” Julie said. “I learned very quickly how I took my education opportunities for granted and how fortunate I was to have an education.” Once her children were in school, she started working for Provo School District.

Julie’s experience and work in higher education, and background in health sciences, laid the groundwork for her current role as First Lady of RMU. “I hope to live a life true to my values and beliefs, to learn and grow from life’s experiences, and adjust accordingly,” Julie said. “I want to see and serve others in their time of need and to always keep things in the right perspective of what matters most.”

While Julie has goals to learn and discover new things, serve those in need, travel more, and pursue her hobbies, her family is her life. “My top priority,” she said, “is to help, love, and support Cameron and our beautiful daughters in having a happy, successful, fulfilling, faith-filled life, and helping them truly know the great worth and potential they have.”

Cameron & Julie A Dynamic Duo Cameron and Julie’s journey began as a successful blind date arranged by a persistent friend. Julie had recently returned from serving a mission in Norway for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) and after being set up on numerous blind dates had no interest in being set up yet again.

After finally giving in to her friend’s requests, Julie and Cameron had their first date and they were married a year later. Julie’s love for others complements Cameron’s easygoing nature, resulting in a partnership that supports each other’s dreams and endeavors.

“Julie’s ability to love others for who they are and help them become the person they wish to be is remarkable,” Cameron said. “Our children and I are living proof of this strength!”

“I am always impressed with how Cameron treats people,” Julie said. “He always takes time to talk with others and learn more about them. He is loving and kind to everyone he meets and interacts with and he is always very genuine.”

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Daughters with Distinct Passions The Martin daughters — Makenna, Malynn (twins) and Maryn — each bring their unique talents and aspirations to the family dynamic.

Makenna

Malynn

Maryn

Designing a Life of Creativity

A Head for Numbers

Working, Growing, and Dancing

Makenna is a recent UVU Summa Cum Laude graduate with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design with double minors in Art History and Portuguese.

She currently works as a graphic designer for the creative marketing team at Vivint.

Malynn is also a recent UVU Summa Cum Laude graduate. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting with minors in Business Management and Spanish. She is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Accounting at UVU while working as a finance specialist at Motivosity, a software company.

The youngest member, Maryn, is just as driven as the rest of the Martin family.

A freshman at Timpview High School, Maryn also works at a little ice cream shop at the Shops at Riverwoods in Provo.

When not working, Makenna is golfing, watching movies, painting, or “geeking out about art and fashion history.”

Some of Makenna’s goals are to get married and start a family, push herself creatively, and travel more, mainly to return to Brazil, where she served an LDS church mission.

Makenna and Malynn 15 | S U M M I T M A G A Z I N E

Malynn enjoys soccer, golf, movies, and games when she’s not studying or working.

She would love to travel, get married, start a family, and always have a job she loves and is passionate about.

Makenna, Maryn, and Malynn

Maryn enjoys making videos and dancing with friends. She also enjoys soccer, golf, and crafting.

Maryn’s goals include getting good grades in high school and going to college. She has her eyes on being a surgical physician assistant, following her parents’ passion for education and healthcare. We hope to see Maryn as a future student and graduate of RMU’s Master of Physician Assistant Studies program!

Maryn

Travel, Games, Movies, and Golf: The Martin Way When it comes to time together, the Martins have various interests to do and bond as a family. “We have a lot of fun golfing because we don’t take it too seriously,” Cameron said.

Travel is a hit with the family, and they often visit Cameron’s home state, enjoying the Oregon Coast.

They all have many memories of beachcombing, relaxing by the ocean, and visiting family. They’ve also visited London, Paris, California, Canada, and upstate New York.

Family movie nights are another cherished tradition. While their daughters admit to having a soft spot for chick flicks, Julie enjoys movies with an uplifting message, and Cameron tries to convince the Martin ladies to let him enjoy an action film now and again. During the pandemic, the Martin family enjoyed many movie marathons including Marvel, Harry Potter, and Star Wars films in chronological order.

One particular flub that still makes the whole family laugh happened after watching the movie “The Game Plan,” starring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.

Cameron and his family were talking about a particular character in the film, a little girl with a penchant for bedazzling her belongings. Cameron couldn’t remember the term and instead called it “gobo’s,” which sent the family into peals of laughter. “Bedazzle” and “gobo” aren’t even close to the same word. This simple yet endearing anecdote is just one example of the laughter and humor infused into the Martin family’s daily life.

Halloween Adventures Halloween in the Martin household isn’t just about costumes — it’s about embodying characters. “When we first married, Cameron didn’t like dressing up,” Julie said. “But I was always dressed up crazy with my friends, and I convinced him to dress up with me — or maybe he was just proving his love for me — but it quickly became an annual tradition.” Now, Cameron and Julie go all out, staying in character throughout the night, much to the amusement of everyone they encounter.

One time, the Martins would only give

the host their character names — Clover and Sky, two hippies. Because they wouldn’t break character, the host, with phone in hand, said he would call the police if they didn’t reveal themselves.

That caused them to break character, dumbfounding the host. There are plenty of other characters that the Martins look forward to introducing to the RMU community on future Halloweens!

Cameron’s Comic Streak Cameron is known for his ability to keep the family in stitches with his memorable mix-ups of words and humorous stories.

“My family teases me about things I have said over the years that just came out wrong,” Cameron said. “These statements have created moments of real laughter and fun that I get teased about over and over again. I often remind my family that one of my purposes is to bring them joy, which my many mess-ups and made-up words routinely provide.”

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The Vision for RMU Cameron’s aspirations as President of RMU are centered around unity, vision, and growth, and leading the RMU community to improve the human condition. He envisions a university that stands out, supporting a community committed to uplifting and caring for others.

A Legacy of Love and Service Through shared hobbies, cherished moments, and a commitment to service, the Martin family embodies the values of RMU. As Cameron leads the institution with dedication and vision, he and Julie, alongside their daughters, continue to create an atmosphere of unity and support.

The Martin family has been the recipient of love and service in their time of need and strive to pay it forward. Both Cameron and Julie have had critical health challenges (Cameron had a spontaneous brain hemorrhage in 2014 and Julie had heart attacks in 2018). As a result, they have a special place in their hearts for healthcare professionals. Their experiences fuel their passion to tell the RMU story of producing healthcare practitioners, researchers, and teachers dedicated to improving the human condition. They know first-hand the healing power that comes from those serving others in their time of need.

Cameron and Julie are focused on and dedicated to the importance of loving and lifting one another, especially in time of need. It starts with their support of the RMU faculty, staff, and students.

It is their hope that RMU students and graduates will recognize, emulate, and practice the power of loving and lifting among their patients and within their communities throughout their professional careers and personal lives.

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“I will build upon existing good works and a foundation of practices, policies, resources, and organizational structures that will enable our University to flourish and be known among the top-tier healthcare universities in the world,” Cameron said.

As First Lady of RMU, Julie is already involved with University and community events, helping

“

our university [will] flourish and be known among the top-tier healthcare universities in the world.” host key influencers, and serving on select committees. She also supports Cameron with his scheduled time

demands, helps him maintain a balance with family time, and serves as a sounding board as she lends a listening ear. Julie hopes to be involved with appreciation efforts for all RMU employees, and intends to identify other opportunities to be of service to RMU and the community. “I also want to take an active role in helping our community learn about RMU, the RMU Health Clinics, and the many other amazing things we do and have to offer,” Julie said.

Cameron and Julie will focus on raising awareness and financial support for the RMU Health Clinics, student scholarships, and research.

“Everyone is truly so kind and positive, which makes it a wonderful environment,” Julie said. “Cameron noticed the positive feeling on campus immediately and how everyone really cares about each other. I have witnessed this as well, and it truly is wonderful.”

Together, the Martins will help elevate the RMU Community as it works toward improving the human condition and loving and lifting others. k

By Rachel Richards

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Celebrating 25 YEARS A Milestone Marked with Joy and Revelry

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ocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMU) staff, faculty, students, and alumni gathered in June to celebrate Rocky Mountain University’s founding. The excitement reached new heights this year as RMU commemorated a remarkable milestone — 25 years of healthcare educational excellence.

Founders Week brought everyone together for a week filled with jubilation, camaraderie, and fun.

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RMU IS POISED TO CARVE AN EVEN BRIGHTER PATH FORWARD DEDICATED TO IMPROVING THE HUMAN CONDITION.

Tower Ribbon Cutting: Unveiling a State-of-the-Art Headquarters As part of the 25th Anniversary Celebration, a ribbon cutting was held for RMU’s state-of-the-art headquarters at 1800 S. Novell Place in Provo, Utah on Monday, June 5. More than 300 esteemed guests, including local dignitaries, healthcare educators, and community members, gathered to commemorate the occasion.

“When you gaze out of our windows, it becomes evident that Rocky

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Mountain University truly embodies its name,” said President Martin. “With our new headquarters, a visionary leadership team, expanded clinical care, and boundless possibilities on the horizon, RMU is poised to carve an even brighter path forward dedicated to improving the human condition.”

Founders Day Party: A Night to Remember The pinnacle of the celebration was the Founders Day party, held on the lawns of RMU’s campus in Provo.

Approximately 700 staff, students, alumni, and their families gathered to enjoy music, outdoor activities, and good food.

The 25th-anniversary celebration served as a reminder of RMU’s unwavering commitment to excellence, shaping minds, and transforming lives for a quarter of a century.

Birthday Cake Celebration: Savoring 25 Years of Success Staff and students gathered to celebrate 25 years by singing Happy Birthday and enjoying some cake. Decked out in RMU gear, students and staff soaked in the mountain views from the 8th-floor lounge while enjoying cake and good company. k

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Empowering Emergency Nurse Practitioners: Enhancing Skills & Confidence for Critical Care

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hen covering the emergency department during her hospital shifts, Dr. Kristina Davis is often a sole provider who works without a backup advanced practice provider or physician. Dr. Davis’ experience influenced her when she created the Emergency Nurse Practitioner Certificate (ENP) program at RMU in 2020.

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A growing demand exists for certified Emergency Nurse Practitioners (ENP) capable of delivering care in emergency settings. ENPs are sought by emergency departments across the country. Some insurance companies even require ENPs or acute care specialists for emergency department (ED) services. Trauma centers, critical access hospitals, and

urgent care clinics rely on ENPs. Fitting with its mission to fulfill needs in healthcare, Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMU) saw a need to provide an ENP certification course.

Dr. Davis succinctly sums up the program’s role, “it increases their specialty knowledge with skills and critical thinking.” The ENP program

teaches Family Nurse Practitioners (FNP) to handle emergent cases, focusing on stabilization, emergency procedures, and confident decision-making.

The curriculum was built to the strict standards of AAENP, which outlines necessary educational and experiential requirements.

As Program Director for the ENP program, Dr. Davis empowers nurse practitioners to practice autonomously, confidently, and as part of a team.

While ENPs may not always be the sole providers, the program prepares them for that situation.

“The AAENP has come up with standards and competencies that students need to meet to confidently work in the emergency department,” says Dr. Davis. “The curriculum was designed to give the students the foundation they need to work in the emergency department without physician oversight. Once the foundation is set, they [students] can continue to develop their practice with experience.”

Shifting ENPs from Specialty to Population Focus The American Association of Emergency Nurse Practitioners (AAENP) says, “It is the position of AAENP that the patient population served by the ENP represents a unique and significantly differentiated set of competencies and behaviors from other APRN population foci. Therefore, in collaboration with our national colleagues and regulatory stakeholders, AAENP supports the development of an ENP population.”

Most patients seen in emergency departments are treated and discharged with minor health problems, according to the AAENP. ENPs may provide primary services, manage patients with chronic disease conditions, care for women with obstetric and gynecological problems, and tend to infants and children.

As noted in the AAENP’s Practice Standards, “ENPs must also be prepared to initiate care for patients with urgent, higher acuity illness, traumas and injuries, and to provide acute resuscitation and stabilization of patients with life-threatening emergencies.”

Tailored for Practicing Nurses RMU’s ENP certificate program caters to practicing nurses who currently have a master’s degree in nursing. (See sidebar for all of RMU’s Nursing programs) The limited residency setup enables students to continue caring for their patients while working on the certification without being required to relocate.

There are a minimal number of visits to RMU’s campus in Provo, Utah — about three days per semester — but the vast majority of work is done remotely.

RMU provides nurses with an in-depth knowledge of human anatomy and physiology. The curriculum is designed to have lectures and labs work in harmony, giving students opportunities to soak in information from experienced faculty members and then to practice with a high-tech 3D simulator or even on an actual cadaver. RMU is one of the only programs in the country that has a cadaver lab on campus. The program also incorporates the Sonosism program (virtual ultrasound training) to teach students the basics of point-of-care ultrasound which is then further learned during onsite skills acquisition.

Benefits of RMU’s Emergency Nurse Practitioner (ENP) Certificate Program Nurses emerge from RMU’s ENP program with multiple credentials, unparalleled educational experience, and uncommon clinical flexibility for the workplace.

Guided by the vision of dedicated professionals like Dr. Davis, this program empowers a new generation of nurse practitioners with the specialized skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to excel in critical care settings. With a commitment to innovation, RMU paves the way for ENPs to navigate the complexities of emergency medicine, ensuring that patients receive the highest quality of care. k

By Jody Genessy

Scrubbing In: RMU’s ENP Program RMU’s ENP program has several options, including the popular dual master’s and certificate programs, to prepare students for successful careers as Emergency Nurse Practitioners.

Master’s Degrees Master of Science in Nursing - Family Nurse Practitioner/Emergency Nurse Practitioner (MSN - FNP/ENP) This provides a clear path to becoming an Emergency Nurse Practitioner for those with a BSN. Students earn their MSN while earning an FNP followed by an ENP. This helps students gain a master’s degree and two certificates and jumpstarts a nurse practitioner career in just two years (six semesters).

Certificates (Post-Master’s) Emergency Nurse Practitioner (ENP) Certificate This is the route for a nurse who already earned their MSN - FNP and wants to pursue an Emergency Nurse Practitioner certificate. Students are prepared to exercise clinical skills in the most demanding situations in just three semesters.

Dual Family Nurse Practitioner/ Emergency Nurse Practitioner (FNP/ENP) Certificate This popular path allows students with a Master of Science in Nursing to obtain both certifications, first the FNP and then an ENP, in only five semesters.

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ith an increasing demand for mental health counseling services and school counseling, the Master’s Counseling program was developed for working professionals to expand their expertise and fit that need. This aligns with Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions’ (RMU) commitment to create programs based on current needs within the healthcare landscape.

When RMU’s first graduate cohort of counseling students entered the healthcare field in 2022, Program Director, Dr. Verl Pope, was forthright about the University’s optimistic outlook and proclaimed, “We want to be a premier counseling program in the state of Utah.”

In a short period of time, RMU’s Counseling program students are making a positive impact in their communities.

These four alumni, Alicia Kelly, Linda R. Cooper, Daniela Stackhouse, and Ashley Heaton, are a positive reflection of what RMU’s counseling program has to offer.

Daniela Stackhouse

Alicia Kelly

Ashley Heaton

Linda R. Cooper

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Linda R. Cooper

graduated from RMU’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling Certificate program in 2022 and supports the RMU Center for Communication Disorders’ (CCD) gender-affirming voice therapy group and works for the private practice organization Mind and Matter Therapy in Midvale, Utah.

In her counseling role, Linda primarily supports neurodivergent clients, mainly clients with ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder, and offers individual and group counseling sessions.

She helps clients develop a more robust social and emotional support network, build community, and create strategies for managing in a world created for neurotypical folks.

Some strategies are external (support systems and community), and some are internal (building greater selftrust, self-compassion, confidence, mindfulness, and coping skills).

“Ideally, my clients also feel empowered to express their authenticity, creativity, and passions fully,” Linda said.

Having also graduated from Cornell University with a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies and from Loyola University in Maryland with a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology, Linda reached her goal of becoming a licensed clinical mental health provider through RMU. “The instructors at RMU provided clear and steady education, feedback, and encouragement. The instructors valued my previous experience, gave me the opportunity to continue my education, and helped me develop a local network of professional support,” she said.

“Through this program, I was able to

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learn more skills, grow greater confidence in my clinical skills, build a professional network, and secure employment.”

Daniela Stackhouse

is a counselor at Valley Academy Charter School in Hurricane, Utah.

She returned to school at age 47 after raising a family with six children, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Marriage and Family Studies, and then graduating from RMU’s Master of Science in School Counseling program in 2022.

While pursuing a new career after her kids grew up, Daniela had an emotional experience with her biggest supporter that solidified her desire to follow her heart into school counseling. “It was interesting.

My husband had said to me, ‘If you could have your dream job, it would be a school counselor, wouldn’t it?’” she recalled. “And in tears, I said, ‘Yes, that’s what I want to be.’”

“

hard days — on the super hard days — I still come home smiling because I think kids today know that they were loved no matter what’s going on in their lives.”

Being there for her schoolkids, from tiny kindergartners to teens in the eighth grade, gives her a purpose to come to work. It fills her cup of satisfaction and fulfills her innate desire to help others.

“There has to be a purpose,” she said. “I have to be doing something for somebody, hopefully making a difference in someone’s life, and this has been it. I love it.”

She loves to sit with students and help them build confidence and appreciation for the things that they love to do and who they are. She helps them realize that they don’t need to make all the tough life choices right now, and that they can simply learn more about who they are and what they love to do. “It’s like a canvas, and it’s like a painting,” she said. “And they can see all the beautiful colors in their lives, and sometimes they just need somebody there to help them see the beauty that they are, the beauty that’s in their lives, and what they can accomplish.”

i have to be doing something for somebody, hopefully making a difference in someone’s life...”

Eventually, she was hired by her current school with the understanding that she’d acquire her master’s degree within three years. RMU turned out to be “the best fit” for a variety of reasons, including its hybrid learning model that allowed her to take most of her classes from her small, remote town in southern Utah. She finished her program in only six semesters.

Daniela couldn’t be more satisfied with her educational experience and career choice. “It has been just the best thing. I don’t know how to explain it,” she said. “I just love being a school counselor. Even on the

Ashley Heaton is

a school counselor at Herriman (Utah) High School and completed a dual Master of Science in School Counseling and Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree during her time at RMU. Along with clinical experience at the OCD and Anxiety Treatment Center in South Jordan, Utah, Ashley's in-depth background allows her to

student, no matter what they look like or anything like that. If you come into my door and you want to graduate, I’m

provide high-quality mental-health care at the high school along with her regular counseling duties.

Other counselors can even refer their students to her if the school’s primary social worker is unable to assist.

Ashley credited the classwork she did at RMU and the first-hand experience gleaned from her practicum and internship for preparing her to help her caseload of 350 students and others who might need extra assistance.

In order to earn both degrees simultaneously, Ashley had to complete three internships while at RMU. She did therapy-type counseling at the high school, provided virtual counseling services through the RMU Counseling Clinic, and interned at the OCD and Anxiety Treatment Center.

“Because I am more of a visual learner, getting that hands-on experience really helped me,” Ashely said.

“For me, having all three of those (internships) was so crucial in my learning and helping me to be able to handle whatever walks through my office. I feel like because I had such a variety I am able to handle what is thrown at me.”

With her empathic tendencies and a multi-cultural background — she’s half Navajo — Ashley prides herself on being an advocate for diverse students.

“When they walk into my door, I feel like I’m able to identify with them a little bit more and understand when they’re talking to me about their needs,” she said. “I’m just really trying to be a voice for those students. I do it for any

“

The college path can be an anxiety-ridden experience for students, so Alicia is grateful to have experience as a school counselor along with the mental health foundation tools needed to assist when possible. She meets with students and their families, hosts college nights, presents necessary steps, provides resources, and uses relationships she’s built with colleges to provide guidance.

“It’s a lot of nitty-gritty things like that,” she said. “But the one-on-one time is my favorite part, honestly, just getting to know all of the students and families.”

i feel like most students who are struggling have a story, and they just need somebody to listen to them and believe in them.”

going to help you get there, for sure. I wouldn’t look at any student as a lost cause. Sometimes they’re super creditdeficient, and we don’t have a lot of time to work, but I will do everything in my power to get them there.”

Ashley knows students are more than their struggles. Some have complicated lives at home. Some work full-time to help pay bills for their families. Some even get kicked out and have to live in their car.

“There’s so many different stories behind every kid,” she said. “I feel like most students who are struggling have a story, and they just need somebody to listen to them and believe in them.”

Alicia Kelly earned

her Master of Science in School Counseling from RMU in 2022 and is now the Assistant Director of College Counseling and AP Coordinator at Waterford School in Sandy, Utah.

Previously, she was a school counselor at West High School in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Ultimately, she wants students to feel good about the decisions they make. “If they weren’t sure what college to go to and then at the end of the day they are really stoked, that’s the kind of tangible moment that is always really nice. It’s just, like, ‘OK, you did all of this hard work. I was just here to cheer you on.’ I love that.”

Alicia cherishes the mentorship she continues to receive from RMU. She collaborated with Dr. Colette Brooks, an RMU professor, on a webinar presentation about becoming an inclusive counselor, which she found to be an informative and valuable experience. k

By Jody Genessy

Alongside two other college counselors in her department, Alicia works one-on-one with Waterford students, primarily juniors and seniors, to help them transition from high school to college.

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RMU Health Clinics a Win-Win for the Community and Students

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ike peanut butter and jelly, Batman and Robin, and Utah’s famous snow and skiing, providing valuable community service and enriching student experiences pair cohesively together at the Rocky Mountain University (RMU) Health Clinics.

In conjunction with the University’s continual efforts to find healthcare solutions, the RMU Health Clinics exemplify a win-win spirit of collaboration, cooperation, and mutual benefit.

“The clinics are important to RMU to educate students,” Senior Director of RMU Health Clinics, Farley Sowards, said. “But it’s also important because it’s the University’s responsibility to give back to the community.”

Win 1: The clinics help people in the

community surrounding the Provo, Utah-based institution who receive healthcare services in a safe and inclusive environment without regard to economic status, race, religion, ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation.

Win 2: These clinics provide

opportunities to gain first-hand clinical experience in a supervised setting for students from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMU), as well as Brigham Young University and Utah Valley University.

“

Considering the services and educational experiences the clinics provide as part of RMU’s commitment to advance the quality and accessibility of healthcare locally and nationally, this is as good of a win-win situation as you’ll get.

Meet the RMU Health Clinics

these students not only learn great clinical skills, but they also experience empathy for the underserved population...”

RMU Eye Institute

“These students not only learn great clinical skills,” former RMU Foundation Chair Vic Deauvono said, “but they also experience empathy for the underserved population and the challenges they face in their lives.”

Center for Communication Disorders (CCD)

In partnership with the Doctor of Optometry program, this facility provides clinic and research experiences for students alongside faculty. The institute helps meet the needs of the local community through a wide range of services, treating eye conditions and diseases with cutting-edge technology and techniques while also providing routine eye exams, glasses, and contact lenses.

Part of RMU’s Master of Science in Medical Speech-Language Pathology (MS MedSLP) program, the CCD offers resources to clients, including feeding and swallowing, motor speech disorders,

and a variety of other communication and cognition needs.

Community Rehabilitation Clinic (CRC)

The CRC provides physical rehabilitation healthcare to community members, including some pro-bono and sliding fee work for uninsured and underinsured populations. The clinic also administers Health & Wellness treatments to help transition patients from rehabilitation to lifestyle management, Multiple Sclerosis physical therapy, pelvic floor therapy, work hardening, and student servicelearning programs.

RMU Counseling Center

Under the supervision of qualified faculty members, students in the Counseling program help individuals remotely and in person. Professionals help clients with self-concept and personal development, positive adjustment to social, cultural, familial, and personal relationships, productive employment skills, and mastery of cognitive, behavioral, and emotional dynamics.

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Home Sweet Home The RMU Health Clinics found a new home all under one roof. This was made possible through a $3 million America Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grant from the Utah County Commission. This grant money helped fund the remodel of Building 3 on the Timpanogos Tech Campus (RMU’s previous home before moving to the 1800 S. Novell Tower) for the RMU Health Clinics on RMU’s campus in Provo. Construction was

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completed in August of 2023, and shortly after, the Center for Communication Disorders relocated from 561 E. Lakeview Parkway in Provo to join the Eye Institute, and Counseling Clinic in the remodeled facility. The Community Rehabilitation Clinic will continue to serve patients from its nearby off-campus location at 587 S. State Street in Provo.

In conjunction with the positive momentum created by this location change and building consolidation,

the clinics are positioning themselves to provide healthcare services to more individuals and families with insurance plans, along with continuing to offer pro-bono and sliding fee services to those who qualify. Likewise, RMU’s vigorous clinics program offers more training opportunities to the next generation of medical professionals, further enhancing a fruitful win-win situation. k

By Jody Genessy

S E RV I N G T H E LO C A L CO M M U N I TY Rocky Mountain University joined forces with United Way of Utah County and the South Franklin Community Center in Provo to host a health fair for underserved individuals and families in Utah County.

Over 150 participants, including children, received healthcare assessments and testing, with some referred for further care. Student volunteers from various healthcare programs practiced giving health screenings in a supervised setting, showcasing the depth of services that RMU’s Health Clinics offer.

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WATCH VIDEO

A Journey to Restored Vision and a Medical-Focused Optometry Career

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ared Foster was 16 years old when he noticed his vision was rapidly deteriorating. “In class, it was harder to see the board. I had lots of migraines and was getting Botox shots to cope with them.” Seeing the board at school was getting harder and the Botox shots helped to deal with the painful migraines. At one point, Jared’s surroundings became a blur before he was diagnosed with keratoconus.

“I temporarily went blind,” Jared said. “During that time, it felt like the world was closing in around me.”

What is Keratoconus?

According to the Mayo Clinic, keratoconus (ker-uh-toe-KOH-nus) is an eye condition where the cornea — the clear, dome-shaped front of the eye — gradually becomes thinner and bulges outward into a cone shape.

This distortion causes blurred vision, light sensitivity, and glare. Severe cases of keratoconus, typically affecting individuals in their late teens to 30s, can lead to blindness, necessitating a cornea transplant for correction.

“

i temporarily went blind. during that time, it felt like the world was closing in around me.”

Luckily for Jared, his father, Gary Foster, was an optomolegist and guided him to an eye center in Colorado, where he became a candidate for an innovative treatment called corneal collagen cross-linking.

Medical-Focused Optometry In Jared’s case, the procedure worked and completely restored his vision.

Inspired by the care and support he received from optometrists, ophthalmologists, and other medical professionals throughout his experience, Jared decided to pursue a career in optometry. “I chose [RMU] over other universities because of the medical focus and the new curriculum.”

One of the intriguing aspects of RMU’s optometry program is its emphasis on a medical approach rather than the traditional model.

Recognizing the increasing demands of a growing population, RMU will produce specialized optometrists who understand the interconnectedness of the entire body, going beyond eyes and lenses. Jared was drawn to this forward-thinking curriculum that aligns with his passion for a holistic understanding of patient’s health.

“With the population increasing, we’re only going to need more specialized optometrists who understand the entire body as a whole rather than just eyes and lenses,” he said.

The Future of Optometry “Like so many other medical providers, there is a shortage of optometrists across the country,” said Dr. Adam Hickenbotham, Dean of the College of Optometry.

According to Dr. Hickenbotham, the world has a diabetes pandemic that existed before COVID and will only get worse as the U.S. population ages.

This is the leading cause of blindness among Americans age 20-74.

“Our Doctor of Optometry program is providing medical training so our 33 | S U M M I T M A G A Z I N E

students can join the battle against these deadly diseases that are the leading causes of death and blindness,” said Dr. Hickenbotham. “Many of these are first detected in the eye, so optometrists need to provide primary eye care treatments. Rocky Mountain University is providing this training.”

Jared’s journey from temporary blindness to restored vision is a testament to the transformative potential of advanced treatments for eye conditions like keratoconus. His personal experience and the care he received inspired him to pursue a career in optometry, focusing on a comprehensive medical approach.

Through RMU’s optometrist program, the future of optometry shines bright, promising a new generation of specialized optometrists who understand the importance of holistic patient care. k

By Rachel Richards

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TIM MCCREARY Man on a Mission Is Passionate About Providing Psychiatric Care

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s a young man serving a church mission near the U.S.-Mexico border, Dr. Tim McCreary was inspired to pursue another mission.

He has been a man on a mission ever since.

“There were a lot of people with medical problems that I couldn’t really help. I could share some hope and encourage them to find better health themselves, but I didn’t have any way to directly help,” said Dr. McCreary, recalling his mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints in McAllen, Texas. “When I came back from my mission, I realized I was looking for some other way to serve, and medicine seemed like a good way to do it — and there was a lot of need.”

That desire to serve led to a healthcare career in the Army and in the public health service and has resulted in thousands of people receiving helpful psychiatric care, instruction, and mentoring from a service-oriented Physician Assistant (PA) pioneer. Dr. McCreary helped create the Doctor of Medical Science psychiatry concentration track for Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMU). He continues to serve as Director of that elite track.

Pathway to Service Dr. McCreary’s altruistic endeavor started to take shape when he joined the Utah National Guard as a Brigham Young University student. After going through basic and advanced training, he became a combat engineer and then an Army medic.

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“

...i realized i was looking for some other way to serve, and medicine seemed like a good way to do it — and there was a lot of need.”

Eventually, Dr. McCreary crossed over from the Army to become an officer in the U.S. Public Health Service. He appreciated the focus on humanitarian work, both domestic and abroad. In this capacity, he’s helped establish healthcare programs serving Indigenous Peoples in Utah and California. He’s also been deployed on humanitarian missions

in Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Peru, and Indonesia.

Early in his PA career, Dr. McCreary started working with the Native American Talowa and Yurok tribes in Northern California via small satellite clinics, where he learned about community gardening and providing care in rural communities.

Being part of that small community

filled him with joy. He fondly remembers walking through town when a young child he’d treated pointed Dr. McCreary out to his father excitedly.

He accepted an assignment in Utah in 2009, managing a diabetes program for the Goshute tribe

kids in the rural location, but he has positively impacted many lives in the area through continued patient care. He’s received extra training in psychotherapy and accepted leadership roles in influential organizations, serving as President of the Public Health Service Academy and the Association of

Pioneering Healthcare Education with the DMSc Psychiatry Track While enrolled in a Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) program at the University of Lynchburg in Virginia, Dr. McCreary crossed paths with RMU DMSc Program Director, Dr. Bartley Rust. McCreary’s expertise in psychiatry as a PA was exactly what the doctor ordered for RMU, and his inclusion propelled the program forward.

“Dr. Rust asked if I could put it together, and I just had a really powerful feeling that this was a good thing to do in my life,” McCreary said. “Things just kind of fell into place.”

Dr. McCreary felt blessed to create a program based upon what he’d learned transitioning from primary care into psychiatry and performing mental health work with Indigenous Peoples for 15 years.

Right People, Place, and Time RMU’s program came about thanks to the passion of the people who contributed to its creation — along with a few miracles. in Tooele County. In that role he provided healthcare services and helped them establish gardens so they could eat more wholesome foods.

Dr. McCreary and his wife eventually took an opportunity to move to Fort Duchesne, Utah, near Vernal, on a full-time basis. Not only did they build a home and raise their

Physician Assistants in Psychiatry.

He also served as President of the Utah Academy of Physician Assistants (UAPA), where he helped lead the charge in passing landmark legislation that improved access to PA provided care in rural Utah and decreased administrative burdens on physician partners.

“I haven’t done everything there is to do in psychiatry, and I wanted the program to meet the needs of PAs with diverse interests and specific mental health training needs. I wanted it to be useful for people in inpatient settings, outpatient settings, pediatrics, and geriatrics, and to have access to professors/mentors who work in these specialty areas,” he said. “We got the right people in the

FACULTY FEATURE

“PAs work in different specialties, but I have a passion for delivering good psychiatric care,” Dr. McCreary said.

“We’re socialized to hide our talents, and we often don’t have enough confidence. My personal mission is to help find these people that have so much to contribute and then help get them into the light a little bit and help them develop ways to share their talents with the world in a way that lifts us all.”

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right room. Everyone we needed showed up at the right time, and we were able to put it together. And Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions was just 100% supportive. They got behind us and made it happen. They provided us with what we needed to make the program viable.”

The result has been terrific. RMU’s program is accredited, clinically relevant, student-centered, and has been received with enthusiasm by PAs and their employers. It’s produced more than a hundred graduates who are now helping many others care for their patients’ needs with effective evidence-based treatments.

“I’ve been a PA for about 20 years now, but developing this program has been the highlight of my career,” Dr. McCreary

“

i’ve been a pa for about 20 years now, but developing this program has been the highlight of my career.” said. “We’re serving thousands of patients across the country, and helping bring more well-informed, compassionate clinicians into the workforce that desperately needs, and deserves them, so it’s wonderful.”

Years after his church mission, Dr. McCreary’s mission continues to evolve to the benefit of many.

“The funnest part of my job now is just meeting the new people that are drawn to the same passion and interest that I had for wanting to deliver better mental healthcare to our communities, to protect our communities, and make these communities more livable for people suffering with mental illness. I’ve loved seeing this program come to life.” k

By Jody Genessy

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shop now

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m i l l i o n a ' s r m u sto ry Meet Milliona Yohannes, a dedicated Optometry student with a passion for enhancing representation in the Optometric profession. Committed to empowering patients, Milliona seeks to provide them with the knowledge and tools to advocate for the maintenance of their own health. Scan the QR code to delve into Milliona's inspiring journey and discover what pursuing a career as an optometrist truly means to her.

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watch video

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T

he Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMU) Doctor of Optometry program offers the latest optometric care, methods, and technology through the RMU Eye Institute. It is one of a handful of Utah Valley clinics with the equipment and expertise to offer Intense Pulsed Light Therapy (IPL).

IPL Therapy is a treatment used for skin rejuvenation, scar removal, and other aesthetic treatments. Almost two years ago, the FDA approved a new IPL treatment for eye conditions, including chronic dry eye and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD).

As part of their education, RMU Optometry students will learn how to utilize this IPL technology to treat dry eyes.

What are Common Symptoms of Dry Eye? Common symptoms of dry eyes include irritation, redness, and blurred vision.

And while these symptoms may seem harmless, if left untreated, prolonged dry eye could lead to more severe issues.

Inflammation causes dry eye which affects the glands that produce oil and could lead to permanent damage with blurred vision.

“There can be dangerous symptoms.

I’ve had patients with dryness so intense that their eyes started to deteriorate, specifically at the level of the epithelium, the outside layer of the cornea. I’ve also seen the cornea perforate from dry eye,” says Dr. Court Wilkins, Assistant Dean of Clinical Affairs, RMU College of Optometry. “So, it can be incredibly serious if patients don’t get dry eye treatment.”

What Causes Dry Eye? Many factors can lead to dry eye — the common ones being age, environment, staring at monitors and screens, and diabetes. As we age, there are many changes to our eyes and a decrease in the production of natural oil in our tears resulting in dry eye. Here in Utah, the low humidity environment greatly contributes to dry eye.

“When we’re on devices, we decrease our blink rate by 30-50%,” says Wilkins. “So,

with that decreased blink rate comes an increase in dryness.”

Diabetes can also cause changes to your sight or eye health. “These are all factors we look for when treating patients,” says Wilkins. “We believe in a holistic approach and look into all possible underlying causes of dry eye before we treat it.”

How does IPL help Dry Eye? There are several ways that IPL helps dry eyes.

1. Warms the meibomian glands (the

tiny oil glands lining the margin of the eyelids) for expression.

2. Eliminates new blood vessel growth

that intensifies inflammation.

3. Decreases demodex (a type of

mite that lives inside hair follicles) that stimulates infection.

4. Facilitates cellular function such as

collagen synthesis.

5. Reduces tear film osmolarity (a

measure of the salt content of a person’s tears) that aids in a better tear film.

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What is it like getting IPL? A first-hand experience

We began by going through the potential side effects. Dr. Wilkins walked me through every item to make sure I didn’t have any questions.

When doing something to your eyes, it’s comforting to go in-depth with all your questions.

For me, the worst part about the IPL treatment was the shields that protect your eyes from the intense light.

They fit over your eyeballs, similar to contacts, and poor Dr. Wilkins had a heck of a time getting them in as my eyelids did not want to cooperate.

With the eye shields in, it was time to get to work. If you’ve had IPL on your face before, you know that it feels like a snapping rubber band on your skin. The IPL for eyes is much lighter, though you feel a bit of the sting. The skin closer to your nose is thinner, so you feel that sting more intensely.

They go over your eyes twice, so take a deep breath and prepare for the second round. When that is finished, the eye shields are removed, and you head to an exam room for expression.

That is about as gross as it sounds.

IPL opens up your meibomian glands, and with special tweezers, Dr. Wilkins expressed my glands, draining them of “goop” aka meibum.

The area around my eyes felt like a sunburn for a few hours after the treatment. I have fair skin and, for about a week, had small scabs from tiny burns at each part where the IPL light had treated my eye. I covered it with makeup. A week later, the scabs cleared and looked fine.

I didn’t feel like I had any symptoms in the days following the procedure.

But if I had chronic dry eye, I would need four sessions to see long-term results.

By Rachel Richards

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What else is coming from the RMU Eye Institute?

The RMU Eye Institute is not only leading the way in current eye treatments, but is always looking at upcoming advanced procedures. “There are new glaucoma devices that are coming out. We’re doing a study with Johnson & Johnson, and we have new antibiotics for macular degeneration that we’re working with,” says Dr. Wilkins.

“Many things are on the horizon for the RMU Eye Institute, its patients, and our students.”

“Our vision for the College of Optometry is to become a leading eye and vision

research institution,” said Dr. Adam Hickenbotham, OD, MPH, PhD, Dean of the College of Optometry. “We have amazing faculty who are seeking to push advancements in the fields of laser eye surgery, tear proteomics, and new pharmaceutical treatments and medical devices in eye care.”

The Eye Institute is a public eye health clinic that offers comprehensive eye care services and the latest innovations in treatment options. Anyone interested in visiting the RMU Eye Institute can call 385.248.5550 or email RMUEyeClinic@rm.edu. k

By Rachel Richards

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“

i help humans be their best when it matters most to them.”

ALUMNI IMPAC T

MARK CAMPBELL

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Mark Campbell, PhD: Pioneering the NatureWellness Connection and Transforming Lives How RMU Nurtured Mark Campbell’s Vision to Elevate Human Performance and Well-being ocky Mountain University of Health Profession’s (RMU) vision to improve the human condition is a commitment exemplified by alumnus Dr. Mark A. Campbell. His journey, spanning from serving in the military, contributing to a World Series champion major league baseball team, and even podcasting, has elevated him as a prominent advocate for intertwining nature and wellness, with a focus on holistic well-being.

With a background ranging from Communications and English to Sports Medicine and Exercise Science, Dr. Campbell found himself at RMU pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences (PhD) focusing on Health Promotion and Wellness.

“When I applied to RMU, I was working as the Master Trainer for the U.S. Army’s Performance Psychology program, and I started seeing a real need for holisticbased programs,” Dr. Campbell recalled.

A Passion for Human Potential Though he began in 2010, Dr. Campbell finished his studies in 2021. He switched his dissertation focus halfway through as his interest in human performance grew, specifically while working with individuals of all ability levels. During his time at RMU, he became even more passionate about helping people be their best.

“I help humans be their best when it matters most to them,” he said passionately.

This commitment led him to work with diverse individuals — in sports, military, corporate settings, and everyday life — helping them perform at their peak level of ability, mentally, emotionally, and physically.

He also taught a course at RMU and experimented with how students learn. He made classes more engaging by bringing in experts and creating podcasts. This helped students connect what they were learning to real life.

Finding the Nature and Wellness Connection Dr. Campbell’s latest project focuses on highlighting nature’s transformative power on well-being. As a Senior Fellow and National Wellness Institute board member, he has worked to make evidence-based wellness programs accessible to all.

An encounter with a Navy veteran ignited his passion for the nature-wellness connection. “I started talking to him about how time in the natural world positively impacts our well-being,” he recounted. This conversation became the seed for the “Nature of Wellness” podcast and company dedicated to this cause.

and proactively help the individual get what they need out of life,” he explained.

These collaborations would result in true holistic care, with a focus on each dimension of one’s well-being.

But what about our society’s addiction to technology? Dr. Campbell envisions a harmonious blend of technology and nature. Rather than competing, technology and nature can be combined to help provide comprehensive well-being solutions. His podcast is an example of the blending of the two.

Dr. Campbell embodies RMU’s vision of loving and lifting others. Through his dedication to holistic well-being and advocacy for the nature-wellness connection, he is changing lives and improving the wellness industry. k

By Rachel Richards

DR. MARK CAMPBELL TITLE: FOUNDER, NATURE OF WELLNESS

Mark’s Secret to Well-being

LOCATION: MARYLAND

For those seeking to improve their wellbeing immediately, Dr. Campbell’s advice is simple: get outside! Just 20 minutes spent in nature can drastically change the biochemistry of your body and brain.

Research has shown that this outdoor exposure reduces anxiety and depression.

According to Dr. Campbell, 20 minutes outside has been shown to increase cognitive function by 40%.

Charting the Future of Holistic Well-being Dr. Campbell sees a future of boardcertified health and wellness coaches collaborating in a clinical setting with primary care professionals to enhance the well-being of individuals in multifaceted ways. “The coach can be there day to day

ALUMNI BIO

R

Dr. Mark A. Campbell’s diverse career encompasses military leadership, serving in the US Army’s performance psychology and wellness programs, and as Director of Mental Conditioning for the 2019 World Series Champion Washington Nationals Baseball Club.

His extensive education includes degrees in English & Communications, Exercise Science/Sports Medicine, a Master of Science in Sport and Exercise Psychology, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences. As a Certified Wellness Practitioner and workplace wellness specialist, Dr. Campbell advocates for wellness through his organization, Nature of Wellness, and hosts the Nature of Wellness podcast.

He is also a Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach and an Adjunct Professor at Rocky Mountain University.

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s h i r n e t t ' s r m u sto ry Shirnett Kerr became a speech-language pathologist (SLP) because of her love of communication and a deep belief that “everyone deserves a voice”.

Discover more about her journey from public education to becoming a student in the Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology program at RMU.

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