Health & Counseling Center
Our Staff
Administrative Staff
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Michael J. LaFarr, PsyD
Executive Director
Pronouns: He/Him/His
PsyD Clinical Psychology, Massachusetts School of Professional Psychology, 2010
MA Higher Education Administration, University of Denver, 2008
BA Education, Johnson State College, 1993Professional Interests: Health care disparity & access, health and wellness, college mental health, differences in learning, grief counseling, giftedness, psychodynamic treatment, sexual therapy, non-majority sexual orientation & transgender mental health.
Professional Experience: Leading the HCC team since 2017. Former Executive Director of Health and Wellness at Brandeis University. Former Director of Student Affairs at the Harvard School of Public Health. Education and Health Promotion, Peace Corps of the United States, served in Mali, West Africa.
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Chris Wera, PhD, CPA, CMA, CFA
Director of Administration & Finance
Pronouns: He/Him/His
MACC, Master of Accountancy, University of Denver
Ph.D. in Research Methods and Statistics, University of DenverCertifications: CPA, CMA, CFA
Professional Interests: Responsible for the day to day Financial and IT operations of the Health and Counseling Center. Serves on the HCC management team.
Professional Experience: Over fifteen years of financial experience, including a dozen years of controlling, financing, planning and developing budgets, with 15 in healthcare. I have served in various financial capacities including Business and Finance Officer, Controller and Chief Financial Officer. I have also served on served on the Board of the Butterfly Pavilion, and have advised several non-profit boards and committees -
Erica Mischke, BA
Assistant Director of Budget and Finance
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
AOS Culinary Arts, Culinary Institute of America, 1990
BA Leadership and Organization Studies, University of Denver (2014)
Professional Experience: DU Health and Counseling Center since 2005 -
Sarah Johnson, BA
Assistant Director of Information and Systems
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
BA Management, Metropolitan State College of Denver, 2004
Professional Experience: Accounts receivable, accounts payable, internal reporting and data analysis, process integration, streamlining communications, learning new software and instructing staff -
James Larcus, MA
Project Manager for Strategic Initiatives
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Masters of Arts, Higher Education and Student Affairs, The Ohio State University, 2015
Bachelors of Science, Sports Management, The Ohio State University, 2013Professional Interests: Holistic student development, positive psychology interventions, social justice, diversity and inclusion, intersectionality, self-authorship, building capacity for resilience, mental health, peer education and leadership development.
Professional Experience: James is a new member of the University of Denver Health and Counseling Center as of September 2017. Previously, James worked at Ohio State where he served the Wellness Coaching program.
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Lee Puckett, BS
Manager, Healthcare Administrative Specialists
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bachelor of Science in Health Care Management, 2018
Professional Interests: Lee is interested in Empowering Teams to deliver high-quality clinical care, Integrated Health Care & Patient Advocacy.
Professional Experience: Lee is a new member of the Health & Counseling Center as of February 2019. Previously, Lee worked for Kaiser Permanente for the last 7 years, where her last job was in leadership with the Surgical Specialty departments.
Personal Interests: Traveling, reading, spending time with family.
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Sara Robbins, BA
Healthcare Administrative Specialist - Patient Advocate
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Masters of Social Work Candidate, 2021
Bachelor of Arts in Biology, with a minor in Spanish from Colorado College, 2014Professional Interests:Holistic wellbeing, mental health, advocacy, and health insurance.
Professional Experience: Public Interest Fellow at the Colorado Health Institute, former EMT and a summer intern at the American Embassy in New Delhi, India Health Unit.
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Kasey Johnson, BS, CHES
Healthcare Administrative Specialist - Communications
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Masters of Science in Healthcare Management Candidate, 2020
Bachelor of Science in Health with a specialization in Community from University of Texas San Antonio, 2014
Certified Health Education Specialist, CHESProfessional Interests: sexual health, community outreach, mental health, and peer education.
Professional Experience: Prior experience assisting students of all ages with varying degrees of developmental disabilities. Also worked as a Health Educator, at Healthy Futures of Texas, implementing various evidence-based, abstinence-plus sexual health education and teen pregnancy prevention programs.
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Chism Mattson, BA
Healthcare Administrative Specialist - Finance and Billing
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies/Theatre at MSU Denver 2018
Professional Interests: Interpersonal Communication and Human Relations, Student life and development in Higher Education.
Professional Experience: Chism is a new member of the Health and Counseling Center as of April 2019, he has 6 years of previous customer service experience as well as experience collegiately as a respondent/co-host for Met Media. He has spent time as a student and peer coach in public speaking & performance and is very passionate about working with students.
Counseling Staff
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Jacaranda Palmateer, PsyD
Director of Counseling Services
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
PsyD Clinical Psychology, University of Denver, 2005
MA Clinical Psychology, University of Denver, 2002
BA Psychology, Colgate University, 1997
Professional Interests: College Counseling, trauma, cognitive and personality assessment, ADHD, LDs, grief counseling, individual/group psychotherapy, couple's therapy, giftedness, psychodynamic treatment, eating disorders, Prolonged Exposure, DBT.
Professional Experience: Employed at DU HCC August 2004-August 2005, and August 2006- present. Completed other training experiences at UC Boulder's CAPS, and at Metro State University's counseling center. At DU's HCC, I have also coordinated the assessment, outreach and training programs prior to becoming directo -
Chaney Cook, PsyD
Associate Director of Counseling Services
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bachelor of Science from Colorado State University, 1990
Masters of Education degree in Community Counseling from University of Oklahoma, 1994
Masters of Arts and Doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from University of Denver, 2001
Colorado licensed Clinical PsychologistProfessional Interests: Dr. Cook's areas of interest include working with clients who are struggling with issues related to depression, anxiety, personality disorders and self-mutilating behaviors. She uses clients’ strengths and a collaborative approach to determine the best course of treatment. Dr. Cook also enjoyed providing clinical supervision to trainees and new professionals seeking mental health licensure.
Professional Experience: She has over twenty years of experience working with young adults, couples, families and adolescents, especially those within college and university settings. Dr. Cook was the Director of Counseling and worked on staff at Regis University for 17 years before coming to DU as the Associate Director/Clinical Director. In addition, she has maintained a small private practice for over 20 years.
Personal Interests: Dr. Cook enjoys watching football (big Broncos fan and raised a Cowboys fan), traveling to foreign countries (on country number 58), playing/walking her dog and spending time creating stone art with her partner.
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Nahed Barakat, PsyD
Staff Psychologist / Coordinator of the Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Doctor of Psychology, University of Denver, Graduate School of Professional Psychology
MA Psychology, Pepperdine UniversityProfessional Interests: Focus on anxiety, depression, OCD, multicultural issues, as well as identity and interpersonal issues. I particularly enjoy working with international students, and students who identify as holding a minority status or is from a historically marginalized population.
Professional Experience: My main experience and interest is working on college campuses with college students. I received my final year of training at the University of Denver’s Health & Counseling Center, then finished a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Colorado at Boulder. I worked at Regis University’s counseling center for the past 3 years.
Personal Interests: I enjoy snowboarding, road biking, stand up paddle boarding and kite surfing. I do not have any pets, but I am the official dog sitter for all of my neighbors!
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Anand Desai, PsyD
Staff Psychologist / Group and Outreach Coordinator
Pronouns: He/Him/His
PsyD: Counseling Psychology, 2012, University of St. Thomas, Minneapolis, MN
MS: Counseling Psychology, 2005, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
BA: Psychology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
Professional Interests: College counseling, group therapy, couples therapy, grief/loss concerns, relational trauma, experiences of oppression/discrimination, sexual assault/dating violence, family of origin concerns, disordered eating, relationship concerns, psychodynamic treatment, emotionally-focused treatment, multiculturally-focused treatment.
Professional Experience: I have worked mostly as a therapist in college counseling centers (University of Minnesota, University of Wisconsin, and University of North Carolina) and also have experience in assessment (LD/ADHD, personality, vocational). I have an extensive background in group therapy and am currently serving as the group and outreach coordinator at HCC. I also enjoy experiences with supervision/training. -
Kayla Rodriguez, LCSW
Coordinator of CAPE Advocacy Services & Staff Counselor
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
MSW, Master of Social Work, 2016; University of Denver, Denver, Colorado
AASW, Animal Assisted Social Work Certificate, 2016; University of Denver, Denver, Colorado
BSW, Bachelor of Social Work, 2012; Colorado State University, Fort Collins, ColoradoProfessional Interests: Generalist background with special interests in individual counseling, advocacy, Animal Assisted Social Work, organizational leadership, and prevention/education. I like working in areas of self-esteem, trauma, and interpersonal violence on all levels—individual, community, and policy.
Professional Experience: Domestic violence shelters, resource center for individuals experiencing homelessness, gender-based violence prevention and education, facilitation, advocacy, intake, case management, crisis intervention, interpersonal violence, trauma, and trauma informed practice.
Personal Interest: I enjoy an array of outdoor activities, traveling to new places, and connecting with friends or family over good food!
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Stacy Kolcum, MNO
CAPE Advocate
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Master of Nonprofit Organizations: Case Western Reserve University, 2016; BA Psychology: Syracuse University, 2013
Professional Interests:Providing support to victims of gender-based violence, trauma, crisis intervention, self-esteem, empowerment-based wilderness/adventure therapy, working with marginalized populations including LGBTQ+.
Professional Experience: Primarily in the nonprofit sector including domestic violence shelter advocacy, sexual assault hotline advocacy, guiding and coordinating outdoor trips, and at a resource center for at-risk teens and young adults.
Personal Interests: Hiking, backpacking, yoga, climbing, podcasts, reading, and spending time snuggling my dogs and cat.
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Briana Johnson, MA, LPC, LAC
Coordinator of Alcohol and Other Drug Support Services /Staff Counselor
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
BS in Psychology and French from Furman University, 2009
MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Denver Seminary, 2013Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Addiction Counselor
Professional Interests: I believe we do what works and that people are brilliant and creative at meeting their needs but some solutions have unintended consequences down the road. I ask clients to examine the consequences they're facing and work to help clients find authentic ways of meeting their needs with consequences they can live with. I enjoy working with substance use, LGBTQIA (particularly trans & non-binary) issues, making big decisions, relationship problems, etc. I am also trained in EMDR via the Maiberger Institute to treat trauma-related symptoms.
Professional Experience: I specialize in substance use work and I have worked previously performing biopsychosocial assessments for healthcare professionals with behavioral health concerns, providing group and individual substance use treatment at the outpatient and intensive outpatient level of care including DUI Education and Therapy, and providing counseling for LGBTQIA individuals in a private practice setting.
Personal Interests: I enjoy being outside, reading, good conversation, traveling to new places, dreaming about traveling to new places, doing art (not often enough), practicing yoga, and eating good food with friends and family.
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Ann Leibovitz, PsyD
Sport & Performance Psychologist
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
PsyD, PGSP-Stanford Consortium, 2015
MS, PGSP-Stanford Consortium, 2013
BA, Dartmouth College, 2006Professional Interests: Sport & Performance, Trauma, Anxiety, Pain, Sleep, Relationships & Sexual Health
Professional Experience: Sport Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Health & Rehabilitation Psychology, Couples Psychotherapy
Personal Interests: My family, skiing, the great outdoors, U.S. history
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Wendy Morrison, PhD
Psychological Assessment Coordinator / Staff Psychologist
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
PhD in Counseling, Clinical, and School Psychology, University of California, Santa Barbara, 2016.
MA in Counseling Psychology, University of California, Santa Barbara, 2012.
MS in Psychology, Villanova University, 2008.
BA in Psychology and Spanish, Muhlenberg College, 2005Professional Interests: University student mental health, cognitive and personality assessment, therapeutic assessment, ADHD, family of origin concerns, relationship concerns, trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, multicultural and diversity issues, graduate student issues, community outreach, individual and group counseling, early intervention, crisis intervention.
Professional Experience: Doctoral internship at the University of Colorado Boulder’s Wardenburg Health Center. Post-doctoral fellowship providing wellness interventions at the Jefferson Center for Mental Health and CU Anschutz Medical School.
Personal Interests: Playing with my dog, exploring Denver, trying new restaurants, and spending time with friends and family.
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Carolee Nimmer, PhD
Staff Psychologist
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
BA in Psychology and English, 1979 University of KS
MA in Clinical Psychology, 1983 Wichita State University
PhD in Clinical Psychology, 1987 Virginia TechCarolee works from a strengths based collaborative perspective. She focuses on self-compassion, mindfulness, pragmatic solutions and acceptance in her clinical practice. Research demonstrates that the therapeutic relationship is the critical factor in making progress in treatment. Carolee strives to develop a warm accepting atmosphere to work on life's struggles. She welcomes feedback from her client's as therapy progresses to ensure that their expectations are met. Recently she has completed training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Attachment Issues in Clinical Practice and Brene' Brown's work on shame and vulnerability.
Clinical Areas of Expertise: : Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Family of Origin Issues, Eating Disorders, Personality Disorders, Couples therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Chronic Pain, Grief, Divorce, Certified in EMDR, Trained in Clinical HypnosisProfessional Interests: In her personal time, Carolee enjoys hiking, working out, reading, films, attending local theatre, travelling and playing with her two dogs. She has two grown children who live out of state.
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Jennifer Schroeder, LCSW
Behavioral Health Consultant
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
BA in Psychology The University of Colorado at Boulder, 2006. Masters of Social Work and Trauma certificate: The University of Denver, Graduate School of Social Work, 2008. LCSW obtained in 2011
Professional Interests: I come from a generalist background with specific interests in working with individuals struggling with grief and loss, anxiety, depression, stress management, interpersonal violence, and trauma.
Professional Experience: I have been in the social work field for over a decade predominantly in the medical setting. I have worked in hospitals both in Colorado and Washington DC with individuals and families. I have expertise in providing counseling to individuals in crisis and struggling with complex or overwhelming situations.
Personal Interests: I love to read, spend time outside hiking with my partner and dogs, travel, and game nights with friends and family.
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Marjorie Lavin, MD
Staff Psychiatrist
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
MD, Cornell University
Psychiatric Residency, Boston University
Professional Interests: Psychopharmacology, nutrition, wellness, and alternative therapies.
Professional Experience: Chief at Mental Health Kaiser (1983-1986); Chief at Mental Health Harvard Community Health Plan (1986-1991); Consultant/Editor at McKesson, Inc. (2000-present); Lecturer, supervisor, teacher in psychopharmacology, time limited therapies. -
Kevin Cowperthwaite, MD
Psychiatrist
Pronouns: He/Him/His
MD, 1992, University of Colorado Internship and Residency, University of Colorado Diplomate, American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology since 1998Professional Interests: Young Adult Mental Health and Development, psychopharmacology, mood and anxiety disorders
Professional Experience: 2012-Present: Outpatient and Hospital Psychiatrist, Denver, CO 1999-2011: Psychiatrist, Health Center at Auraria, serving Metro and UCD
Personal Interests: People, Travel, Books, History, Food, Getting outdoors
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John Whittier, MD
Psychiatry Resident 2020-2021
Pronouns:
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Amanda Weaver, PsyD
Postdoctoral Fellow 2020-2021
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Doctor of Psychology, Clinical Psychology, The Illinois School of Professional Psychology, 2020
Masters of Arts, Clinical Psychology, The Illinois School of Professional Psychology, 2018
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology, DePaul University, 2015Professional Interests: I have a strong interest in college counseling, relational feminist therapy, helping clients tolerate difficult emotions, identifying and expanding upon client's strengths, increasing self-compassion, and understanding how societal context influences client's concerns. I am invested in anti-racism and exploring psychology's place in that endeavor. I also have interests in trauma, relational concerns, identity exploration, anxiety, and family of origin difficulties.
Professional Experience: I have worked with adolescents and young adults throughout my training and have spent the last two years working specifically with college students. During that time I have gained experience in providing therapy to clients struggling with adjustment difficulties, relational and familial concerns, trauma, depression, anxiety, body image, and discrimination. I also gained experience facilitating interpersonal process groups, anxiety skills groups, and trauma support groups.
Personal Interests: I enjoy spending time outside, cooking and baking, listening to podcasts and music, reading, watching reality tv competition shows, forcing my cats to snuggle with me, playing a variety of games, and traveling/exploring new places.
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Kaity Brock, MEd, LPC
Doctoral Intern 2020-2021
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Doctoral Psychology Intern from the Counseling Psychology PhD program at Texas Woman's University
Masters of Education (MEd) from the University of Oklahoma, 2014
Professional Interests: College counseling, relational trauma, couples therapy, creativity, wellness, psychological assessment, group therapy, campus outreach, and diversity.
Professional Experience: I am currently a doctoral candidate working on my Ph.D. in counseling psychology. Prior to starting my current degree program, I obtained a Master's of Education degree in Community Counseling from the University of Oklahoma. I am certified as a Licensed Professional Counselor in the states of Colorado and Oklahoma. I have previously worked with victims of natural disasters and trauma, pre-school populations, as a Mental Health and Disabilities Coordinator, college students at university counseling centers, and with clients in both outpatient and inpatient settings. I have worked with a diverse range of clientele, including children from four years of age to adults in elderly adulthood.
Personal Interests: Hiking, puzzles, binge-watching television series, playing with my dogs and cat, spending time with friends and family, and sewing.
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Tom Gaus, MA
Doctoral Intern 2020-2021
Pronouns: He/Him/His
MA Clinical Psychology, Spalding University, 2018
BA Psychology, University of Tulsa, 2014Professional Interests: I have a generalist background with a focus on anxiety disorders, OCD, and trauma. I am particularly interested in working with clients who are interested in learning how to better manage their strong, sometimes uncomfortable emotions. I aim to facilitate a safe, understanding, collaborative, and genuine therapeutic relationship while predominantly utilizing Cognitive-Behavioral and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy techniques.
Professional Experience: I have experience in both college counseling and private practice settings. I began my clinical work at the University of Indiana – Southeast Counseling Center where I saw students presenting to treatment for a variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, disordered eating, and interpersonal difficulties. I then spent the next two years working in private practices specializing in the treatment of anxiety disorders, OCD, and eating disorders. I also have experience working with athletes who are interested in improving their mental health and mental approach to performance.
Personal Interests: I love getting outside to camp, hike, ski, fish, play sports, and spend time with friends and family. I also enjoy listing to a wide range of music and exploring new places with my partner.
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Mike Hart, MS
Doctoral Intern 2020-2021
Pronouns: He/Him/His
MS, Counseling Psychology, University of Kentucky, 2013
BA, Mass Communication, Illinois State University, 2005Professional Interests: My clinical interests include anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, assessment, forgiveness, grief, career concerns, and substance abuse. I typically work integrating a humanistic approach with cognitive behavioral therapy. I also have experience using acceptance and commitment therapy, forgiveness therapy, motivational interviewing and interpersonal approaches.
Professional Experience: I have worked with college students providing individual therapy, assessment (e.g., ADHD evaluations), and outreach services while training at college counseling centers at the University of Louisville, Indiana University Southeast, and Bellarmine University. I also have experience in group therapy, teaching, and consulting with university faculty and staff. Prior to my doctoral training, I worked for a period in substance abuse counseling and completing intake evaluations at a psychiatric hospital.
Personal Interests: I enjoy listening to music, playing guitar, running, hiking, playing games (including D&D), and watching baseball. I love to travel and have been privileged to make several international trips (my favorite countries visited are Italy and Japan).
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Rich Williams, MA
Doctoral Intern 2020-2021
Pronouns: He/Him/His
MA Clinical Psychology, University of Denver, 2019
MFA Theatre Studies, Brown University, 2011
BA English Literature, Washington & Lee University, 2004Professional Interests: College Counseling, relational and psychodynamic therapy, systems, couples and relationship concerns, ADHD, depression and anxiety, working with athletes and artists, cognitive health, and business consulting.
Professional Experience: Externship at –
Regis University, Aug 2019 – May 2020
Ardent Grove, June 2019 – June 2020
KPLA, July 2018 – July 2019
New Start Clinic, Sept 2017 – Sept 2018
NYU RUSK Rehab Hospital, Sept 2016 – Aug 2017Personal Interests: Playing music, fishing, skiing, golf, tennis, reading & writing, and film & theater
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Breigh Jones-Coplin, MA
Advanced Practicum Student in Sport Psychology 2020-2021
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology Candidate, Graduate School of Professional Psychology, University of Denver, 2022
Master of Arts in Sport and Professional Psychology, University of Denver, 2018
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology minor in Journalism and Coaching, 2016Professional Interests: Sport and Performance Psychology, Perinatal Mental Health, Black Mental Health, Couples and Family Therapy, and Group Therapy
Professional Experience: Clinical Extern providing psychological services at Girls Athletic Leadership School (2018-2019), Mariposa Family Enrichment Center (2019-2020), Caring for You and Baby Clinic (2019-Present), Professional Psychology Clinic (2018-Present), and Center for Performance Excellence (2016-Present)
Personal Interests: Interior design, floral design, blogging, trying out new foods, and spending time with family and friends
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Courtney Agorsor, MS
Graduate Student Trainee 2020-2021
Pronouns:
Professional Interests:
Professional Experience:
Personal Interests:
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Devin Kelly, BA
Graduate Student Trainee 2020-2021
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
BA in Psychology and Legal Studies from the University of Wisconsin—Madison, 2018
Professional Interests: I strive to provide a trauma-informed, collaborative, and authentic environment to help clients process and thrive through confusing, challenging, or painful experiences. In particular, I enjoy working with clients to explore the ways that gender, sexuality, and relationships interact with their experiences of violence, anxiety, depression, and substance use. I have an interest in helping clients heal their relationship with their bodies and eating through a weight-inclusive approach and meet often-stigmatized concerns such as self-harm, suicidal thoughts, and substance use with a compassionate and strengths-based attitude.
Professional Experience: I have experience in advocacy and crisis support to survivors of gender-based and relationship violence as well as those experiencing severe mental health crises requiring inpatient mental health support. I have also worked in outpatient settings providing individual and group therapies to those struggling with substance use, trauma, LGBTQ+ identity exploration, and eating disorders.
Personal Interests: As a former collegiate downhill ski racer, I enjoy skiing and all things snow and mountains in the winter. I also enjoy traveling to new places (mainly in search of good food!), both locally and internationally but also hanging out at home with a good book and my cat.
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Anne Neuweiler, MA
Graduate Student Trainee 2020-2021
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
MA Counseling Psychology, University of Denver, 2020
BS Psychology, Saint Mary's College of California, 2017Professional Interests: Individual and group psychotherapy, trauma, correctional populations, LGBTQIA+ populations
Professional Experience: Worked at Denver County Jail and Porter Adventist Hospital
Personal Interests: Spending time with family, catching up with friends, and playing sports
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Tye Stephens, MA
Graduate Student Trainee 2020-2021
Pronouns: He/Him/His
MA in Forensic Psychology from DU GSPP, 2018
Professional Interests: I enjoy working with clients who have experienced life-changing events and are now redefining themselves on their own terms. I have worked with people with histories of substance abuse, trauma, or relationship violence, and I enjoy helping clients regain meaning and purpose in their lives. I believe in normalizing therapy and digging into shame to help people become their most empowered, authentic selves, regardless of what labels or judgments may have been cast upon them.
Professional Experience: While in my master's program, I worked at Mental Health Center of Denver, where I provided therapy and case management to people with substance abuse histories and various mental health concerns. After that, I worked at Creative Treatment Options as a therapist, specializing in addiction, trauma, and domestic violence.
Personal Interests: Like many Coloradans, I enjoy spending time outside, traveling, and finding new places to eat.
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Dallas Vallar, BA
Practicum Student for Alcohol and Other Drugs 2020-2021
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
BA Psychology, Skidmore College, 2019
Professional Interests: College Counseling, substance use, interpersonal and relationship concerns, academic student issues, career, multicultural and diversity, mindfulness, adjustment, and anxiety
Professional Experience: I have experience providing individual therapy, crisis counseling, and mediations for students in a public-school environment. Prior, I have worked to support the development of conflict resolution skills and workplace skills within families and for individual family members. I also have experience providing community outreach and advocating awareness of eating disorders and student anxiety on a college campus
Personal Interests: Painting, puzzles, exploring galleries, spending time outdoors, tennis, and playing video games
Health Promotion Staff
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Kim Liao, MPH
Louis Richard Girouard III Director of Health Promotion
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Master of Public Health, Health Behavior and Health Education, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 2011
Bachelor of Science, Biobehavioral Health, Penn State University, 2009Professional Interests: Health communications, built environment, health policy, peer education, health equity, program planning, assessment and evaluation
Professional Experience: Chronic Disease and Injury Prevention Coordinator, Chester County Health Department
Assistant Director of Health Promotion, Penn State University
Community Health Educator, Penn State UniversityPersonal Interests: Hiking, rock climbing, tea, cooking, trying new restaurants, crafting, cats
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Vacant
Coordinator of Mental Health Promotion
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Andrea Thyrring, MA
Coordinator of Gender Violence Prevention and Education
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bachelor of Science, Health and Exercise Science; Minor, Women and Gender Studies - TCNJ, 2011
Master of Arts, Higher Education - DU 2013
Professional Interests: Sexual Violence, Dating Abuse, Stalking, and Harassment Prevention; Educational and restorative justice programming
Professional Experience: Violence Prevention Program Coordinator and Confidential Advocate for Victims, Regis University
Health Specialist, Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro Denver -
Eva Esakoff, MA
Coordinator of Health Promotion- Alcohol and Other Drug Initiatives
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Master of Arts, Higher Education Administration,
University of Denver, 2019
Bachelor of Arts, Psychology, Minor, Health & Wellness, California State University, Monterey Bay, 2016Professional Interests: Health & wellbeing, student affairs/higher education, social justice, gender equity, sustainability
Professional Experience: Inclusive Excellence Fellow for Health Promotion at DU; Resident Advisor at CSU Monterey Bay; Area Council Advisor at CSU Monterey Bay; Bedsider sexual health organization member at CSU Monterey Bay
Personal Interests: Biking, hiking, crafting, exercise/fitness, and vegetarian food
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Katie Johnson, BA
Graduate Assistant- Peer Education Supervisor
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Pursuing Master of Arts, Higher Education Administration, University of Denver, 2022
Bachelor of Arts, Social Science, San Diego State University, 2019Professional Interests: Equity and access in higher education, education and class, career and academic development, student well-being and success, sustainability, gender
Professional Experience: Peer Education Graduate Assistant, Elementary Program Assistant, Santa Rosa, CA, Academic Mentor, San Diego State University, Women's Resource Center Fellow, San Diego State University
Personal Interests: Cooking & baking, floral design, hiking, music, and her dog, Ruth
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Kaleigh Kessel, BA
Graduate Intern- Gender Violence Prevention and Education
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Pursuing Master of Social Work, University of Denver, 2021
Bachelor of Arts, Social Sciences, Washington State University, 2018Professional Interests: Violence prevention, higher education, disability accessibility, harm reduction
Professional Experience: Vocational Evaluation Intern, Bayaud Enterprises, Denver, CO; Access Center Staff, Washington State University, Pullman, WA
Personal Interests: Coffee, cats, crafting, hammocking, music, and watching Denver Broncos or WSU Cougar football
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Lia Wolfe, BS
Graduate Intern- Mental Health
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Pursuing Master of Social Work, University of Denver, 2022
Bachelor of Science, Psychology and Biology, Florida State University, 2019Professional Interests : Eating disorders, mental health advocacy, suicide prevention, LGBTQ+ inclusivity, mindfulness
Professional Experience: Peer Counselor for Realizing Everyone's Needs for Emotional Wellness, Florida State University; Body Project Facilitator, Florida State University; Counselor, Sunrise Shelter for Survivors of Domestic and Sexual Violence, Pasco County FL
Personal Interests: Skydiving, tunnel flying, climbing, hiking, pole fitness, taxidermy, skiing
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Jenna Johnson, BS
Social Media & Marketing Coordinator
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Pursuing Master of Arts, International Studies, University of Denver, 2022
Bachelor of Science, Business Administration, Oklahoma State University, 2017Professional Interests : Humanitarian Assistance, International Organizations, International Development, Human Rights, Social Media & Marketing, Business Development
Professional Experience: Campaign Manager, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society; Development Assistant, Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters; Community Economic Development Volunteer, Peace Corps (Senegal)
Personal Interests: Traveling, Writing, Documentaries, Reading, Cooking, Sewing, & Animals (Especially her own, Rosie & Ramen)
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Haley Roberts, BS
Graduate Intern-Gender Violence Prevention and Education
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Pursuing Master of Social Work, University of Denver, 2021
Bachelor of Science, Health Science, Minor, Health Disparities in Society, University of Florida, 2019
Professional Interests: Social justice, gender and health, health equity and access, mental health, suicide prevention, consensual allyship, student advocacy
Professional Experience: Mental Health Promotion Graduate Intern, University of Denver; Department of Epidemiology Research Assistant, University of Florida; Program Operations and Health Disparities Assessment Intern, Elder Options Gainesville, FL; College of Public Health and Health Professions Student Ambassador, University of Florida
Personal Interests: Cats, espresso, piano, music, camping, thrifting, and astrology -
Anit Tyagi
Thrive Peer Educator
Pronouns : He/Him/His
Majors: Chemistry, Political Science; Minors- Biology, Math
Personal Interests: Playing pickleball, reading current evets, watching TV
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Dyna Arriaga
Thrive Peer Educator
Pronouns : She/Her/Hers
Majors: Gender and Women's Studies, Psychology
Personal Interests: Scary movies and boba
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Gracie Jacobson
Thrive Peer Educator
Pronouns : She/Her/Hers
Majors: Theatre & Finance
Personal Interests: Guitar, backpacking, mountain biking
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Jackson Burow
Thrive Peer Educator
Pronouns : He/Him/His
Major: BA/MA candidate in International Studies
Personal Interests: Politics, sports, social justice, skiing, hiking, music
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Jill Girardeau
Thrive Peer Educator
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Major: Undeclared
Personal Interests: Running, hiking, being outside, making art
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John Haddock
Thrive Peer Educator
Pronouns : He/Him/His
Majors: Political Science, Public Policy; Minors: Leadership Studies, Statistics
Personal Interests: Politics, dogs, meditation
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Kameron Gottlieb
Thrive Peer Educator
Pronouns : She/Her/Hers
Major: Molecular Biology, Minors- Chemistry and Sustainability
Personal Interests: Playing guitar, dancing, knitting, skiing, and doing pretty much anything outdoors
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Kate Maegley
Thrive Peer Educator
Pronouns : She/Her/Hers
Major: Psychology
Personal Interests: Yoga, cooking, reading, menstrual equity
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Kendrick Choong
Thrive Peer Educator
Pronouns: He/Him/His
Major: Business Analytics
Personal Interests: Weight-lifting, video games, college education
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Lanie Cohen
Thrive Peer Educator
Pronouns : She/Her/Hers
Majors: Gender & Women's Studies, Strategic Communications/ Intercultural Global Studies
Personal Interests: Travel, skiing, childcare, reading, fashion, politics
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Maya Bhowmik
Thrive Peer Educator
Pronouns : She/Her/Hers
Major: International Studies; Minors- Biology, Leadership Studies, Critical Race & Ethnic Studies
Personal Interests: Reading, art, walks, live music, learning, deconstructing systems of oppression, cooking new things/family recipes, quality time with loved ones
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Megan Morrell
Thrive Peer Educator
Pronouns : She/Her/Hers
Major: Political Science
Personal Interests: Reading, debate, environmentalism
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Morgan Martin
Thrive Peer Educator
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Major: Molecular Biology; Minors- Spanish, Chemistry, Leadership Studies
Personal Interests: Singing, playing the guitar, writing, reading, politics, listening to podcasts
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Naitra Ramchander
Thrive Peer Educator
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Majors: Molecular Biology & Psychology; Minors: Chemistry, Leadership, and Gender & Women's Studies
Personal Interests: Hiking/backpacking, traveling, reading
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Paige Otto
Thrive Peer Educator
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Majors: Public Policy & Socio-Legal Studies
Personal Interests: Cross stitching, yoga, dogs, & a cappella
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Sara Loughran
Thrive Peer Educator
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Major: International Studies; Minors: English & Spanish
Personal Interests: Writing, improv, video games, listening to music (k-pop especially), spending time with animals
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Sarah Liang
Thrive Peer Educator
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Majors: Psychology, Chinese; Minor- Marketing
Personal Interests: Baking/cooking, shopping, reading, playing piano, listening to music
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Susanna Skaran
Thrive Peer Educator
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Majors: Psychology, Communication
Personal Interests: Crafting, journaling, watching TV, sometimes reading
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Victoria Rubio
Thrive Peer Educator
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Major: Bio Chemistry; Minors: Psychology, Math, & Medical Physics
Personal Interests: Skiing & painting
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Wesley Mysinger
Thrive Peer Educator
Pronouns : He/Him/His
Majors: Psychology (Cognitive Neuroscience concentration), French
Personal Interests: Making/drinking coffee, working out, cooking, reading research literature
Medical Staff
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David Odell, MD
Medical Director / Staff Physician
Pronouns: He/Him/His
MD, State University of New York at Buffalo, 1995
Residency, Saint Joseph Hospital, Denver, Family Medicine, 1998
Fellowship, Ohio State University, Columbus, Sports Medicine, 1999Professional Experience: Board Certified Family Medicine Physician; private family practice, 2000-2003; urgent care medicine, 2003-2013; University of Denver Health & Counseling Center Medical Director, 2012 to present.
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Callie Johnson, MSN, RN, ANP-BC
Practice Manager / Nurse Practitioner
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bachelor’s in Biology from Ursinus College, 2003.
Master’s Degree in Nursing from Boston College, 2009ANCC certified Adult Nurse Practitioner
Professional Interests: Preventative care, sexual health, LGBTQ health
Professional Experience: Full-time staff nurse practitioner at The George Washington University Colonial Health Center (the health center for students) in Washington, DC 2011-2017, Nurse practitioner Woburn Family Practice in Woburn, MA from 2009
Personal Interests:Spending time with my husband and son and skiing in Colorado’s beautiful mountains
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Lori Graybill, RN
Registered Nurse
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Los Angeles College of Nursing At USC Medical Center, 2006
Certified in ALCS, PALS, Trauma Nursing Core Curriculum and Emergency Nursing Pediatric Curriculum, S.A.N.E. Nurse
Professional Experience: UCLA Medical Center Emergency Trauma Technician, Phlebotomy Education Program Director at UCLA Center for Prehospital Care at the David Geffin School of Medicine, Emergency Department the Medical Center of Aurora, Rocky Mountain Hospital for Children at North Suburban Medical Center
Professional Interests: Orthopedic injuries. Trauma and wound care. General Family Medicine issues -
Denise Gubrud, CMA
Certified Medical Assistant
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Certified Medical Assistant, Red Rocks Community College
Professional Experience: CMA, DU Health & Counseling Center since 2005
Professional Interests: Orthopedic injuries. Trauma and wound care. General Family Medicine issues
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Grae Nakama, PA-C
Physician Assistant, Certified
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Undergraduate education at Trinity University and University of Colorado at Boulder
Physician Assistant program Wake Forest School of Medicine 1996Professional Interests: I am especially interested in prevention, nutrition and women’s health
Professional Experience: I have worked in family practice in the Denver area for 20 years, and recently at the Health Center at Auraria. I am familiar with alternative medicine treatments after working in an integrative medicine clinic for 13 years. -
Sarah Hwang, RN
Registered Nurse
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
BS in Nursing from Regis University in Denver, 2009
Professional Interests: Women's Health, Acute Care, Public Health
Professional Experience: ER, Public Health, Urgent Care
Personal Interests: Outdoor activities and cooking
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Cornelia Nelson, CMA
Certified Medical Assistant
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
BSBA, University of Denver
Certified Medical Assistant, Red Rocks Community College
Professional Experience: CMA, DU Health & Counseling Center since 2005 -
Girish Paranjape, DO
Staff Physician
Pronouns: He/Him/His
DO, Oklahoma State University, 1996
BA, University of Oklahoma, 1992
CAQSM, Fellowship, Primary Care Sports Medicine, University of Colorado, 2000
Residency, Family Medicine, University of Colorado, 1999
Board Certifications - Sports Medicine and Family Medicine - (CAQSM and ABFM)
Professional Interests: Musculoskeletal Injuries and Rehabilitation, Preventative Care, Travel Medicine
Professional Experience: (2002-present) - Staff Physician University of Denver Student Health and Counseling Center. (2002 - present) - Medical Director, Head Medical Team Physician University of Denver Pioneers. -
Annie Kate Randall, RDN
Registered Dietitian
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences Texas Christian University, 2017
Coordinated Program of Nutrition and Dietetics, Texas Christian University
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, 2017Professional Interests: I am interested in helping anyone who is motivated to make changes in their life to better their health. I aim to stray away from the negative connotation of a "diet" and a dietitian as restriction and move towards enjoying a variety of foods and taking care of the body you have been given. I specialize and have the most experience with weight loss and management, nutrition for cardiac and diabetic patients, women's health, eating disorder patients, athletes and overall healthy eating.
Professional Experience: I attended Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas and went through the Coordinated Program of Nutrition and Dietetics to be eligible to become a RDN with all the required interning hours and courses. I graduated in May of 2017. I interned 1200 hours over the course of two years in a variety of locations such as hospitals, private practice, schools, senior living homes, and several others. After graduating, I became the Dietitian for a private practice working with a wide variety of patients who all wanted to better their health, one way or another. After that, I worked at the cardiac rehabilitation center for Baylor Scott & White hospital. I taught a nutrition class called Leap for Life and worked one-on-one with the cardiac and diabetic patients recovering from heart procedures and various heart conditions. I also got a second job at the one and only Trader Joe's!
Personal Interests: Outside of work I enjoy hiking and skiing in the mountains. I love to travel and experience new cultures. I also like to cook, bake, host people at our house and take care of my plants, garden and puppy.
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Jennifer Rysavy, PA-C
Physician Assistant, Certified
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
BS in Biology, University of Minnesota, 2001
MPAS- Masters in Physician Assistant Studies, Augsburg College (Minneapolis, MN), 2004Professional Interests: Women’s health, preventative care and acute care
Professional Experience: I have worked in family practice for 12 years in the Denver area.
Personal Interests: I enjoy running, reading, and spending time with my husband and two children.
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Tish Mobley, APN-NP
Nurse Practitioner, Certified
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Post-Masters Family Nurse Practitioner Certificate, Emory University, 1995
Master of Science in Nursing, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Kent State University 1983
Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Medical College of Georgia, 1978
ANCC Board Certified Family Nurse PractitionerProfessional Interests: Helping individuals choose healthy behaviors and meet their individual health care goals
Professional Experience: Nurse Practitioner providing primary care/urgent care for the homeless at Stout Street Health Center/Health Outreach Mobile Van in Denver 2014-18, Peace Corps Volunteer in Botswana 2011-13, Nurse Practitioner/Diabetes Educator in Atlanta 1995-2010
Personal Interests: Travel - international and local - trying to visit all the National Parks, anything outdoors - hiking, biking, snowshoeing; independent films; trying new recipes, baking
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Stephanie Stroz, RN
Registered Nurse
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
B.S. in Nursing from Neumann University, Aston PA; 1988
Professional Interests: college health nursing and pediatrics
Professional Experience: Staff Nurse at The University of Delaware Student Health Center and School Nurse Consultant for Douglas County School District
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Carla Torres-Zegarra, MD
Dermatologist
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Afton Williamson, NP
Nurse Practitioner
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Doctor of Nursing Practice, University of Washington 2013
Masters in Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, University of Washington 2012
ANCC Family Nurse Practitioner, 2012
Bachelor of Arts in Nursing, St Olaf College, 2007Professional Interests: Women’s healthcare, travel medicine, health promotion and education.
Professional Experience: Family Nurse Practitioner, private family practice; Seattle, WA. Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner, Harborview Medical Center; Seattle, WA. Registered Nurse, Mayo Clinic; Rochester, MN
Personal Interests: Alpine and cross country skiing, playing the piano, and spending time with my family.
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Kacie Worth, CMA
Certified Medical Assistant
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
EMT, Front Range Community College, 2012
Associates of Applied Science in Medical Assisting, Red Rocks Community College, 2016Professional Interests: Women’s health. I’m all about women empowerment and being in charge of your health is an important part of that.
Professional Experience: I worked in a drug and alcohol testing facility for almost 2 years and before that I worked on an ambulance as an EMT.
Collegiate Recovery Staff
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Waltrina Bailey, PhD
Director of Collegiate Recovery Community
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
PhD Higher Education - Leadership, Indiana State University, 2007
MS Organizational Management, Misericordia University, 2004
BA Communications, The Pennsylvania State University – University Park, 1991Professional Interests: Recovery advocacy and education, transdisciplinary competencies, overdose prevention, holistic wellness, substance prevention and intervention, student success and persistence, intersectionality, appreciative inquiry, leadership development, and social justice.
Professional Experience: New member of the DU HCC October 2018. Former Academic Advisor/Instructor at Ohio University. Served as the Interim Dean of Academic Affairs at West Virginia University at Parkersburg, Associate Dean of Students at Taylor University, and Behavioral Health Technician for Westbrook Health Services Amity Treatment Center. Other experience includes teaching graduate students, student activities, multicultural and international affairs, and admissions.
Personal Interests: Yoga, meditation, wellness, and beginner triathlete.
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