Hyochol Brian Ahn

Dean, College of Nursing
Professor, Nursing
Member of the Graduate Faculty
Professor, Innovations in Aging - GIDP
Professor, BIO5 Institute

Hyochol Brian Ahn, PhD, APRN, ANP-BC, FAAN, is the Dean of the College of Nursing at the University of Arizona. Previously, he served as the Associate Dean for Research and was the founding director for Brain Science and Symptom Management Center at the Florida State University. Prior to that, he served as the Assistant Dean for Research and held the Isla Carroll Turner Endowed Chair in Gerontological Nursing at the University of Texas Health Science Center.

Dr. Ahn's educational background encompasses diverse fields, including a BE in Electrical Engineering from the University of Seoul, South Korea, an MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering, a BSN/MSN/PhD in Nursing, and an MS in Medical Sciences, all attained from the University of Florida. He combines his expertise in nursing, medicine, and computer engineering, and uses mobile and connected computer technology to optimize delivering home-based nonpharmacological intervention and improve patient-centered outcomes in chronically ill and aging populations, especially among underserved populations.

His research has been continuously funded since 2011, including an NIH/NINR R01 award as PI, and has produced more than 180 peer-reviewed publications and scientific presentations related to healthcare technology, health equity, symptom science, and population health and wellness. His contributions extend beyond academia as he has served on numerous grant review panels for esteemed institutions such as the National Institutes of Health, Department of Defense, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, where he had the privilege of chairing some of these panels. Furthermore, he actively serves on the editorial boards of various esteemed journals, including the Asian/Pacific Island Nursing Journal (APINJ) as the Editor-In-Chief.

As an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse and nationally board-certified Nurse Practitioner recognized by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, Dr. Ahn actively contributes to the development of curriculum in his role. He plays a pivotal part in the restructuring of the curriculum, placing emphasis on problem-solving and team-based approaches. Additionally, he incorporates online learning methods to complement early clinical exposure. Adhering to the guidelines set by the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, Dr. Ahn provides invaluable support to faculty members in adapting educational models and ensuring adherence to accreditation standards as outlined by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education. With his Graduate Certificate in Nursing Education, he takes the lead in spearheading the creation of innovative strategies aimed at expanding programs to meet the growing demand for highly skilled nurses. Furthermore, he actively cultivates and nurtures professional partnerships with healthcare and community organizations. Dr. Ahn's dedication to advancing Bachelor of Science in Nursing and gerontological nursing education has been recognized with the esteemed Distinguished Educator Certificate in Gerontological Nursing from the National Hartford Center of Gerontological Nursing Excellence.

Degree(s)

  • M.S. Medical Sciences, University of Florida, 2015
  • Ph.D. in Nursing , University of Florida, 2012
  • M.S.N. Adult and Elderly Nursing, University of Florida, 2009
  • B.S.N. , University of Florida, 2007
  • M.S. Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Florida, 2004
  • BE Electrical Engineering, University of Seoul, 1997

Crystal Aristizabal

Lecturer, Nursing
Crystal Aristizabal

Gilbert University Center 301

I am an accomplished Nursing Education & Registered Nurse with noted experience in providing classroom, laboratory and clinical training for students and new nurses to ensure the delivery of quality patient care. I have advanced leadership strengths with proven coaching, guidance and mentoring skills. I have extensive experience in various nursing environments, including Medical-Surgical, PACU, Pre-Op, OR, Trauma, substance abuse, detox, mental health and Urgent Care units, as well as supervising multidisciplinary teams. I have experience with various technologies, including AV equipment, overhead projectors, computers, simulation mannequin, Blackboard, Canvas, D2L, Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Access).

I am hoping to start on my DNP in the next year at ASU, to persue my personal goal of obtaining my doctorate degree. 

Degree(s)

  • M.S.N. Nursing Education, University of Texas, 2014
  • A.A.S. Nursing, Phoenix College, 2012
  • M.B.A. Buisness Administration, University of Phoenix, 2009
  • B.S. Business Management, University of Phoenix, 2007
  • Human Resource Management Human Resource Management, University of Phoenix, 2005

Melanie Arnold

Student Group D

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

Aaraiz Asif

Student Group B

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

Terry A Badger

Professor
Professor, Psychiatry
Endowed Chair, Eleanor Bauwens - Nursing
Professor, Public Health
Member of the Graduate Faculty
Director, Research Initiatives
Interim Associate Dean, Research

Courtney Bartlett

Principal Lecturer
Member of the Graduate Faculty
Interim Coordinator, AGACNP Specialty

Degree(s)

  • DNP Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, University of Utah, 2014
  • B.S.N. Bachelors of Science in Nursing, Weber State University, 2009
  • A.S. Associate of Science in Nursing, Weber State University, 2008

Aleeca Bell

Associate Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty
Associate Professor, BIO5 Institute

Laurel Lee Bilbo

Senior Lecturer

I wanted to be a nurse from the age of 4. My grandmother was a nurse in the depression era and told me fascinating stories. I also had several medical issues throughout my life and knew if I became a nurse I could improve patient experience. I graduated from the UofA college of Nursing in 1986. I began working at El Dorado hospital in 1986 on a oncology unit. I became charge nurse in three months time. When our hospital closed in 2006 I was a nursing supervisor for the hospital. During my time at El Dorado, I worked on telemetry and med surg. I also performed home health visits to medicare patients and worked in an oncology office. I also began teaching part time for Pima Community College (PCC). At PCC I taught several first semester skills labs and a clinical rotation which was half long term care and an introduction into acute care at the hospital. After El Dorado closed I worked for Maxum agency and worked several facilities in town. I then accepted a position as house supervisor at Saint Joseph hospital November of 2007. I thrived in this role and realized I loved mentoring and educating others. I decided to go back to school after 25 years of nursing and obtained my masters in Nursing Education from Grand Canyon University May of 2013. I applied to the UofA nursing college in hopes of teaching for my alma mater and was hired. I currently am the Chair of a 10 unit course in second semester. It is Management of Acute and Chronic Illness across the life span. This is an introduction into Medical surgical nursing, birth to death.

Degree(s)

  • M.S.N. Nursing Education, Grand Canyon University, 2013
  • B.S.N. Nursing, University of Arizona, 1986

Karin Kay Blasko

Senior Lecturer

I am alumni of University of Arizona's accelerated BSN program. I graduated in December of 2002. I obtained my Masters Degree in Nursing in 2016 from Grand Canyon University. I also have a BS in Zoology. I am an Ohio and Arizona native and love desert life. I am thrilled to be a Wildcat in the role of Nursing Faculty!

Degree(s)

  • M.S.N. Nursing Leadership and Healthcare Management, Grand Canyon University, 2016
  • B.S.N. Nursing, University of Arizona, 2002
  • B.S. Zoology, Northern Arizona University, 1995

Melinda Burns

MA
Administrative Associate
DNP Program Coordinator, Senior Advanced Nursing Practice & Science Division
Geneva M Burns

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

Karen Butterbaugh

Principal Lecturer

I have been a registered nurse since 1991 with a concentration in women’s health and obstetrics.  I completed my advanced education journey with a BSN in 2010 and MSN in 2011.  I worked at Arizona State University as a clinical assistant professor but changed my faculty position to University of Arizona (U of A) as a Senior Lecturer in the Masters’ Entry to the Practice of Nursing (MEPN) in April 2017.  I am certified in Inpatient-Obstetrics since 2006 but aspire to be certified in nursing education.  I will accomplish this in 2019.  I am also experienced in medical-surgical, women’s health, and fundamentals nursing.  I am actively involved in interprofessional education, developing innovative student learning resources, several university committees, and volunteer activities.  I am a member of American Nurses Association (ANA), Arizona Nurses’ Association (AzNA), and Association of Women's Health, Obstetrics, and Neonatal Nursing (AWHONN).  I am actively involved in my memberships and am the chair of the annual AzNA conference poster presentations.

 

Degree(s)

  • M.S.N. Nursing, University of Phoenix, 2011
  • B.S.N. Nursing, Grand Canyon University, 2010
  • Diploma of Health Sciences Nursing, St. Clair College, 1991

Linlin Cao

Financial Analyst III
Linlin Cao

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

Heather Lynn Carlisle

Associate Clinical Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty

Degree(s)

  • Advanced Practice Certificate Nursing, Psychiatric-Mental Health, Arizona State University, 2021
  • Graduate Certificate Elder Law, Mitchell-Hamline School of Law, 2021
  • Graduate Certificate Health Law for Healthcare Professionals, University of Arizona, Rogers School of Law, 2019
  • Advanced Practice Certificate Nursing, Palliative Care, California State University, San Marcos, 2016
  • Advanced Practice Certificate Nursing, Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, University of Arizona, 2014
  • DNP Nursing, University of Arizona, 2013
  • Advanced Practice Certificate Nursing, Family Nurse Practitioner, University of Arizona, 2011
  • M.S.N. Nursing, University of Arizona, 2010
  • Graduate Certificate Nursing, Rural Health, University of Arizona, 2010
  • Graduate Certificate Public Health, University of Arizona, Zuckerman College of Public Health, 2010
  • B.S.N. Nursing, University of Arizona, 2008
  • Ph.D. Geography, University of California, Berkeley, 2007
  • M.A. Geography, University of California, Berkeley, 1994
  • B.A. Geography, University of California, Davis, 1990

Sheri Michele Carson-Beauto

Assistant Clinical Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty
Interim Coordinator, PNP Specialty

Degree(s)

  • D.N.P. Advanced Nursing Practice, Arizona State University, 2018
  • M.S.N. Advanced Nursing Care of Children: Pediatric Nurse Practitioner/Clinical Nurse Specialist, Marquette University, 2003
  • B.S.N. Nursing, Marquette University, 1997

Dora Chen

BCL Technician

Menghao Chen

Financial Analyst III

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

Xiaochen Chen

Endowed Professor, Gladys E Sorensen
Member of the Graduate Faculty
Dr. Chen has dedicated her career to the study of dysmenorrhea, commonly known as menstrual pain. Recognizing the prevalence of this condition and its potential to lead to other chronic pain conditions, Dr. Chen has challenged the historical dismissal of dysmenorrhea by the scientific and clinical communities. She aspires to promote person-centered and equitable dysmenorrhea care, ultimately improving the quality of life for menstruators and mitigating future pain risks.

As a Principal Investigator, Dr. Chen has received over $3 million in extramural funding, including a current R01 from the NIH. She has published over 40 peer-reviewed papers. Her research has been cited by scholars from 50 countries and featured in popular media outlets, raising public awareness of dysmenorrhea. Her research has also garnered recognition through invited presentations and requests for consultation nationally and internationally.

In addition to her research, Dr. Chen is a dedicated mentor. She has guided undergraduate Honors students, graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows. Her commitment to teaching and mentoring was recognized with the Indiana University Trustees Teaching Award.

Dr. Chen also contributes to the broader scientific community through her service on several committees. She is a member of the Council for the Advancement of Nursing Science Program Committee, US Association for the Study of Pain Education and Professional Development Committee, and an international task force focused on developing a taxonomy for female pelvic pain.

Dr. Chen received her MS and PhD in Nursing from University of Wisconsin-Madison and her Postdoctoral Fellowship from Indiana University. She is a fellow of American Academy of Nursing.

Degree(s)

  • Ph.D. , University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2015
  • M.S.N. , University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2012
  • M.B.B.S. , Tongji Medical College, 2009

Tausif Chowdhury

Clinical Research Coordinator

PO Box 210203
TUCSON, Arizona 85721-0203

Amanda Chriswell

Student Group C

PO Box 210203
TUCSON, Arizona 85721-0203

Madelyn Davis

Instructional Designer
Madelyn Davis

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

Joseph Charles DeBoe

Assistant Clinical Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty

Degree(s)

  • DNP Advanced Practice Nursing-Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, University of Arizona, 2017
  • B.S.N. Nursing, Ohio University, 2013
  • A.A.S. Nursing, Henry Ford College, 2012
  • Ph.D. in Nursing Nursing-Cardiometabolic Disorders, University of Nebraska Medical Center

Leslie Dupont

PhD
Coach, Writing
head and shoulders shot of Leslie Dupont

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

As your Writing Coach, I work directly with Nursing students, staff, and faculty on your scholarly and professional writing in order to help you strengthen your skills in this area.

I have taught writing and writing-related subjects since 1989, and I earned my PhD in Rhetoric, Composition, and the Teaching of English in 1999. I have worked as a writing instructor here at the UA; in Nogales, AZ, for Pima Community College; and online with the Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Talented Youth. In addition, I have published two writing textbooks (Writing Cornerstones and Writing Keystones) and worked as an independent editor. From 2013 to 2018, I was the Graduate Writing Institute Coordinator at the UA Writing Skills Improvement Program.

That all sounds kind of traditional, doesn’t it? However, I actually consider myself a nontraditional/alternative academic (“alt-ac”). While I’ve always loved to read and write and am an eternally curious lifelong learner, I also struggled as a student with academic writing and research. I could do it well, but the process was an intimidating mystery to me for many years. In addition, I actually entered higher education as a high-school dropout. Fortunately, leaving high school after 11th grade gave me a chance to do some necessary growing up, get out in the work world, and develop my common sense. So, when I decided to try college, I had a toolkit of basic life skills that helped me be a successful student. Teaching and learning have always appealed to me, especially in a collaborative coaching/mentoring format, so I’m excited to work with you as a writing coach.

Sara J Edmund

Associate Clinical Professor
Interim Coordinator, PMHNP
Member of the Graduate Faculty
Dr. Edmund's nursing career began by obtaining a Bachelor of Science in nursing from the University of North Dakota.  After years of nursing, her leadership skills developed in a corporate capacity by educating professional adult learners nationwide for many years.  After returning to higher education with the completion of a DNP, with a focus on family practice nurse practitioner, she practiced neurology and general practice, which culminated in owning and operating a primary care office.  The experience provided an opportunity to accept and train future nurse practitioners from all over the country.  During this time, it was clear that the number of psychiatric nurse practitioners was inadequate, so she returned to higher education again to obtain her certification in psychiatry as an NP.  Her research interests include emergency care of mentally ill patients, crisis care of dual-diagnosis patients, and rhabdomyolysis identification within the dual-diagnosis patient.  She is working clinically, providing crisis psychiatric care to patients in several underserved areas of Phoenix, AZ. Dr. Edmund joined the University of Arizona in 2016 as a Clinical Assistant Professor, where she is part of a team of expert educators and clinicians to prepare competent, highly dedicated psychiatric clinicians.  Since joining UA Faculty, she has been awarded the Suzanne Van Ort Award (peer award for teaching), the Daisy Award, and the Excellence in Teaching Award, which is awarded based on student feedback.  Given her background as both FNP and PMHNP, she has a clear understanding of the benefits of integrative care, especially in underserved communities. She wrote and was awarded 2 million dollars in funding from HRSA with the goal of expanding healthcare practitioner training in integrative and underserved areas.  The project will continue through 2025.  Dr. Edmund also currently serves on the Executive Board of the International Society of Psychiatric Nurses (ISPN). 

Degree(s)

  • Post Masters Certificate Psychiatric Mental Health, University of Arizona, 2016
  • Family Nurse Practitioner Family Nurse Practitioner, University of Arizona, 2012
  • DNP Nursing, University of Arizona College of Nursing, 2012
  • B.S.N. Nursing, University of North Dakota, 1995

Charles Reginald Elam

Assistant Clinical Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty

Dr. Elam, a native of Richmond, Virginia, earned a Master of Science in Nurse Anesthesia in 2010 and Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice in 2011 from Virginia Commonwealth University.  Most recently, he completed a PhD in Health Related Sciences in 2018, also at VCU.  Dr. Elam has practiced nurse anesthesia in various settings, including urban medical centers in Central Virginia, community and rural hospitals across Iowa, and most recently at hospital and outpatient facilities in the Tucson, Arizona metropolitan area, where he is also a clinical assistant professor at the University of Arizona.  Dr. Elam’s research interests include postoperative patient safety, regional anesthesia, and trends in ERAS. 

Degree(s)

  • Ph.D. Health Related Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, 2019
  • DNAP Nurse Anesthesia, Virginia Commonwealth University, 2011
  • MSNA Nurse Anesthesia, Virginia Commonwealth University, 2010
  • B.S.N. Nursing, Virginia Commonwealth University, 2006
  • A.S. , Richard Bland College of the College of William and Mary, 2005
  • Diploma Nursing, Southside Regional Medical Center School of Nursing, 2005

Elise Erickson

Assistant Professor, Nursing
Member of the Graduate Faculty
Assistant Professor, Pharmacy Practice-Science
Assistant Professor, Clinical Translational Sciences
Assistant Professor, BIO5 Institute

Elise Erickson PhD, CNM, FACNM has been a Certified Nurse Midwife since 2005 and earned a PhD in 2018 at Oregon Health and Science University where she served as a faculty midwife from 2014-2022. Her research lab, "Mechanisms Underpinning Maternal Health" (MUMH) www.mumhlab.com, is broadly focused on understanding variation in the physiology governing labor and birth to improve individualization of care practices and promote healthy transitions to motherhood/parenthood. At the University of Arizona she conducts research on epigenetic and genetic variation in oxytocin function for improving the use of oxytocin during the birth process and addressing postpartum hemorrhage specifically.

In addition, her work includes the role of epigenetic aging (biological aging) in maternal health and maternal morbidity. Through this line of study, Social Determinants of Health (SDoH) and social environmental factors (adversity/ support) are considered for their role in contributing to epigenetic age acceleration. In addition, Dr. Erickson conducts studies using wearable devices for monitoring maternal autonomic/ hormonal physiology during pregnancy with the objective of understanding signals leading up to pregnancy complications or events for enhanced prediction of labor or pregnancy-related complications. She specializes in latent mixture modeling for understanding heterogeneous and complex phenomenon. She is accepting doctoral and post-doctoral trainees. 

She lives in Tucson and enjoys playing in nature with her children, spouse and dogs Biscuit, Gravie, & Maple

Degree(s)

  • Ph.D. , Oregon Health and Science University, 2018
  • M.S.N. Midwifery and Women's Health, University of Illinois Chicago, 2005
  • B.S.N. , University of Michigan, 2003

Rina Fox

Assistant Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty
Assistant Professor, Psychiatry

Degree(s)

  • Ph.D. Clinical Psychology, San Diego State University / University of California, San Diego Joint Doctoral Program in Clinical Psychology, 2016
  • MPH Public Health (Epidemiology), San Diego State University Graduate School of Public Health, 2014
  • B.A. Psychology; Spanish, Tufts University, 2007

Sheila M Gephart

Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty
Interim Chair, Advanced Nursing Practice and Science Division

Sheila Gephart has been a nurse for 20 years and has been a nurse scientist since 2012. She is an Associate Professor at the University of Arizona. She studies technical and parent-engaged solutions to reduce the burden of necrotizing enterocolitis. Her methodological expertise in spreading innovations using informatics, especially clinical decision support technologies, has included algorithm development and testing of tools to measure Electronic health record related unintended consequences. Her research has been funded by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, National Institute of Nursing Research and the National Library of Medicine. She is an active member of the NEC Society Scientific Advisory Council, the International Neonatal Consortium, and the Editorial Board of Advances in Neonatal Care. She loves to drink coffee, spend time with her 3 teenage daughters, watch murder mysteries with her husband, and disappear into the wilderness. 

Degree(s)

  • Ph.D. in Nursing Nursing, The University of Arizona, 2012
  • B.S. Nursing, Oregon Health Sciences University, 1998

Timian M Godfrey

Associate Clinical Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty

Clinical Assistant Professor, University of Arizona College of Nursing, Tucson, AZ

Advanced Practice Clinician, TribalHealth, Scottsdale, AZ

Dr. Godfrey is a clinical assistant professor at the University of Arizona (UA) College of Nursing (CON), is a board certified Family Nurse Practitioner, and holds certification in public health. At Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, her DNP degree studies encompassed a leadership focus with public health training at the Bloomberg School of Public Health, specializing in American Indian Healthcare. She also practices as an advanced practice nurse in emergency healthcare for tribal nations with TribalEM.

Dr. Godfrey is a proud member of the Navajo Nation and is a strong advocate for increasing the presence of individuals from groups underrepresented (UR) in health profession fields. Her primary focus is creating equitable academic opportunities for students from historically marginalized populations. She is the current program director for the HRSA Arizona Nursing Career Apex and Transitions Scholars program and lead on an Indian Health Services award (American Indians in Nursing Career Advancement Transition Scholars) aiming to increase the number of Native American nurses practicing in tribal communities. She also co-leads the UA CON Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Task Force. Additionally, she serves on the interprofessional UA Health Sciences EDI task force, is the chair-elect on the inaugural Western Institute of Nursing Diversity and Inclusion committee, and a member of the American Association of Colleges of Nursing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leadership Network to promote diversity, equity and belonging in nursing research and education in the United States. Lastly, she is engaged in efforts to establish a tribal-specific Arizona Health Education Center to develop health sciences education opportunities with tribal communities in Arizona.

Degree(s)

  • DNP Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, 2019
  • Public Health-American Indian Health Public Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, 2019
  • M.S.N. Family Nurse Practitioner, University of Nevada Las Vegas, 2014
  • B.S.N. Nursing, Southern Utah University, 2010

Judith S Gordon

Research Professor, Nursing

Judith S. Gordon, Ph.D., is a Professor and Interim Associate Dean for Research and Executive Director for Research Initiatives in the College of Nursing. She is also a Professor and was previously Vice Chair for Research in the Department of Family and Community Medicine. Dr. Gordon received her doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Oregon, Eugene. Previously she was a Senior Scientist at the Oregon Research Institute, Eugene.

Dr Gordon’s areas of expertise include public health tobacco cessation interventions delivered in dental and medical settings, self-help tobacco cessation programs,  educational tobacco cessation programs for healthcare practitioners, computer-based tobacco prevention programs, multi-behavioral interventions to address weight, physical activity, and tobacco, and the use of mobile health technologies (e.g., mobile apps) for lifestyle change and medication adherence.

Dr. Gordon has been the PI or Co-Investigator on more than 30 projects funded by the National Institutes of Health, the Department of Defense, and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. She has authored and co-authored numerous publications in peer-reviewed journals, and presented widely at national and international scientific conferences. She has served on several proposal review committees, editorial boards, and professional societies.

Degree(s)

  • Ph.D. Clinical Psychology, University of Oregon, 1996

Deborah A Gorombei

Assistant Clinical Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty
Deborah Gorombei

Gilbert University Center 301

Degree(s)

  • Family Nurse Practitioner , Arizona State University, 2021
  • Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Innovation Leadership, Arizona State University, 2016
  • M.S. Nursing - Critical Care CNS, Purdue University Calumet, 1995
  • B.S.N. Nursing, Loyola University Chicago, 1990

Lisa M Grisham

Student Group C

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

Anna Gutierrez

Quit Coach

PO Box 210203
TUCSON, Arizona 85721-0203

Mary C Hadeed

Program Manager
Molly Hadeed Portrait

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

Camden Hardy

Instructional Designer

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

Christopher Herring

Assistant Clinical Professor
Assistant Administrator, UA Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Program
Member of the Graduate Faculty

Dr. Herring started his journey in nursing at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.  After graduation He served in the United States Air Force at Wilford Hall Medical Center where he discovered his passion for critical care.  After his tour of duty and subsequent appointment in the DOD, his journey continued by working with the Oklahoma Organ Sharing Network.  The exposure to critical care, perioperative care, and an extreme level of independence with this job made him want to continue his educational path in advance practice.  Dr. Herring attained anesthesia training at the University of North Carolina-Charlotte/Carolinas Healthcare System School of Nurse Anesthesia.  He graduated in 2005 and served in several rural health facilities and critical access hospitals.  During that time he also took part in surgical mission teams to the Dominican Republic.  The yearly service trip eventually evolved in to team leadership in 2012.  In 2016, he started a Doctor of Nursing Practice program at Duke University.  His scholarly project brought together a diverse team of educators, international health scholars, and clinical experts to design and impliment a virtual orientation program for volunteer international health team members to improve their level of confidence and their global health and cultural competence.  Dr Herring accepted a role as an clinical assistant professor in the Doctor of Nursing Practice- Nurse Anesthesia program at the University of Arizona in September of 2018.  He and his wife have relocated to Tucson, AZ.

Degree(s)

  • DNP Nursing, Duke University, 2018
  • M.S.N. Nurse Anesthesia, University of North Carolina, 2005
  • B.S.N. Nursing, University of North Carolina, 1993

Ann Hess

Director, Marketing & Communications
Head and shoulders shot of Ann Hess.

PO Box 210203
Building: Nursing (#203)
Dean's Office, Room #316E

Ann oversees strategic marketing, branding, communications, website content, and management, among numerous other responsibilities for the University of Arizona's College of Nursing. In collaboration with the Office of the Dean, she liaises between the College of Nursing and its three academic divisions to address their marketing and communications needs.

Janine Hinton

Associate Clinical Professor
Director, Steele Innovative Learning Center
Member of the Graduate Faculty

Degree(s)

  • Ph.D. Education, Specialization in Postsecondary and Adult Education, Capella University, 2011
  • Other Master of Nursing, Management Specialization, University of Phoenix, 1996
  • B.S.N. Nursing, The University of the State of New York, Regents College, 1993
  • A.A.S. Nursing, The University of the State of New York, Regents College, 1989
  • Practical Nursing Certificate Nursing, Mesa Community College, 1987

Kristie Hoch

Associate Clinical Professor
Program Administrator

Dr. Kristie Hoch, DNP, CRNA, MS, RRT, FAANA is the Program Administrator for the University of Arizona's DNP-Nurse Anesthesiology program. She chose to become a CRNA after serving with them in Desert Storm. Kristie has years of experience as a CRNA in every practice model and setting, to include office based, critical access, academic teaching hospital and trauma centers. She has served as the Rural Facilities Director and Recruiter for an all CRNA company prior to becoming an educator. She chose to become an educator to influence the future of the profession she loves by ensuring students are prepared to provide anesthesia autonomously and by incorporating evidence-based practice. She is a strong advocate for CRNAs. She has served in state, regional and national positions in Nurse Anesthesiology. 

Degree(s)

  • DNP Nursing, Chatham University, 2016
  • M.S. Nurse Anesthesia, University of Kansas, 2004
  • B.S.N. Nursing, Creighton University, 2000
  • B.A.Sc. Allied Health, Doane College, 1999
  • A.A.S. Respiratory Care, Southeast Community College, 1989

Bettina Hofacre

Program Coordinator, Senior
Mariella Bettina Hofacre

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

Marianna Holland

Assistant Clinical Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty
I am a clinician and midwifery educator with 17 years of combined nursing and midwifery experience providing health care to underserved populations. I have practiced full scope women's health in a variety of settings including hospital and community. My current settings are hospital, birth center and home birth. As a community midwife, I have established relationships with varied health care providers in multiple settings. 
My interests in the factors that draw students to nursing and especially midwifery have inspired me to support a diverse group of students through mentoring and precepting. Through my career I have worked as a preceptor for nursing students, graduate nurses, midwifery students and as an attending for medical residents. Precepting and teaching are an important way to encourage the diversity of our healthcare workforce. I am deeply committed to the education and success of our new colleagues through personalized support. My goal is to build our nursing and midwifery community through outreach, recruitment and mentoring of our new fellows. 

Degree(s)

  • DNP Nursing, Frontier Nursing University, 2017

Mindi Horwitch

Quit Coach

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85713

Kathleen C Insel

Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty

The focus of research is on cognitive function over the lifespan and implications of cognitive function (specifically executive function and working memory) on self-management of chronic disease, or in the case of children, on school achievement. Self-management is often indexed by examining medication adherence. The population of interest is older adults with hypertension and in collaboration with Dr. Ki Moore, children who are diagnosed and treated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Findings have implications for self-management challenges in other populations with chronic disease conditions. 

I have specific interest and expertise in quantitative research methods. 

Degree(s)

  • Other Post-doctoral Fellowship in Community Based Interventions, University of Arizona, 2000
  • Ph.D. Educational Psychology, University of Arizona, 1993
  • M.S. Nursing, University of Rochester, 1976
  • B.S.N. Nursing, University of Wisconsin, Madison, 1970

Maria Kenneally

Assistant Clinical Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty

Maria Kenneally

DNP, FNP-BC

Dr. Maria Kenneally earned her Bachelor of Science of Nursing in 1996 at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb, IL. She went on to receive her Master of Science in Nursing with emphasis as a Family Nurse Practitioner at Concordia University in Mequon, WI in 2003.  She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice at Minnesota State University, Moorhead in 2010.

Dr. Kenneally spent five- and one-half years teaching as a Clinical Assistant Professor at Missouri State University from 2010 thru 2015.  Dr. Kenneally served on the committee helping to develop the DNP program, and transition from the MSN FNP to the DNP FNP degree.  Dr. Kenneally is well versed on writing curriculum for coursework.  While at Missouri State she was asked to teach the Women’s Health course and Pediatric course neither of which had any curriculum formally written or placed on Blackboard. She also taught various aspects of the Family Practice 1, 2, and 3 didactic coursework. Dr. Kenneally has experience with in classroom and online formats. She has worked with students on their MSN projects as a chair and has been involved as a chair or member of various MSN and DNP projects.

Other academic positions held include Adjunct Faculty at Chamberlain University online MSN, FNP program,  Clinical Site Supervisor with Grand Canyon University  MSN, FNP program, and Adjunct Nursing Faculty for RN, BSN through Herzing College in Wisconsin.

Dr. Kenneally has co-authored several CNE series pharmacologic articles in MedSurg geared toward RN’s.  She has presented both podium and poster presentations at local and national conferences. 

In addition to her higher education roles, Dr. Kenneally continues to work as a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has been active in family practice since 2003, taking care of various patient populations throughout the lifespan.

 

Degree(s)

  • D.N.P. Nursing, University of Minnesota - Moorhead, 2010
  • M.S.N. Nursing, Concordia University, 2003
  • B.S.N. Nursing, Northern Illinois University, 1996

Laura Joanna Kennicutt

Assistant Clinical Professor
Dr. Laura Kennicutt is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), a Certified Nurse Educator (CNE), and a prelicensure (MEPN) assistant clinical professor at the University of Arizona College of Nursing. She obtained her Bachelor’s of Fine Arts at New York University in Film and Television production and gained work experience in writing and copyediting before pursuing her Masters Entry to the Profession of Nursing (MEPN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degrees at the University of Arizona. As an FNP, Dr. Kennicutt has had the privilege of providing whole-person care to a wide variety of patients across the lifespan, with a focus on geriatric health.  

After serving as a clinical preceptor for numerous NP students, Dr. Kennicutt pursued a post-masters certificate in Nursing Education at the University of Northern Colorado. Coursework covered areas including evidence-based teaching, curriculum development, program evaluation, and the role of the nursing professional in academia. She has applied this learning first as a per diem clinical instructor with the UA MEPN program, then as an Assistant Clinical Professor in the same program. This position has involved chairing the medical-surgical clinical course for level 2 students, leading clinical groups in inpatient clinical rotations, assisting with skills labs and testing, participating in in-person and remote classroom learning activities, and assisting with low- and high-fidelity simulations. She enjoys activities including antiquing, cooking, and spending time with her daughter and cat.

Degree(s)

  • Post-graduate certificate in Nursing Education Nursing Education, University of Northern Colorado, 2022
  • D.N.P. Family Nurse Practitioner, University of Arizona, 2018
  • M.S. Entry to Nursing, University of Arizona, 2015
  • B.F.A. Film and Television Production, New York University, 2004

Mallory Leigh Ketterer

Part-Time Faculty

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

Mallory is a proud, two-time alumnus from the University of Arizona College of Nursing. She received her Bachelor of Science in 2012 and Doctor of Nursing Practice DNP with a Family Nurse Practitioner emphasis in 2020. She is a lecturer in the Level 1 BSN Tucson campus teaching Nursing Pharmacology. She also practices as a Family Nurse Practitioner.

Degree(s)

  • D.N.P., Family Nurse Practitioner, The University of Arizona College of Nursing, 2020
  • B.S.N., Nursing, The University of Arizona College of Nursing, 2012

Sandra Kirkpatrick

Principal Lecturer

I am current Principal Lecturer at the University of Arizona BSN-IH Gilbert. I have, previously resided as, faculty at Arizona State University since 2006 and my prior position was Clinical Assistant Professor in the Veterans Administration Nursing Academic Partnership (VANAP) since Fall 2013. I have vast experiences in both didactic and clinical coordination.

My experience includes Fundamentals, Adult Health, Mental Health, Community, and Immersion and Leadership. I have instructed in Traditional Prelicensure, Post Baccalaureate, and the RN-BSN programs congruently. 

My current University of Arizona responsibilities include:

Fall 2019 Level 1 Lead Faculty NURS 370 and NURS 371, both didactic and skills lab.

MY CV is attached to highlight Work Experience 

 

Degree(s)

  • M.S.N. Nursing, University of Phoenix, 2005

Chiyoung Lee

Assistant Professor, Nursing
Member of the Graduate Faculty
Assistant Professor, BIO5 Institute

Julianne Ashley Leverenz

Lecturer
Jules Leverenz Portrait

Gilbert University Center 301

Julianne “Jules” Leverenz, MSN, ACNP-BC joined the BSN-IH division January 2021. She completed her BSN from University of Nevada, Las Vegas in 2006 and was awarded a Clinical Excellence Award by UNLV’s faculty. She started her nursing career 15 years ago as an ICU nurse and worked in the Cardiothoracic ICU at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center and the Mayo Clinic Hospital in Phoenix. Jules graduated from Grand Canyon University’s Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program in 2014 and obtained her ACNP Board Certification by ANCC. In her NP role, Jules previously worked with the inpatient Bone Marrow Transplant team at Mayo Clinic Hospital, as well as with Hospice of the Valley providing home-based primary and hospice care. She currently works with MeMD as a telemedicine NP by directly treating urgent care patients across the country. Jules is happily married and enjoys spending time with her family, which includes her two children. She has thoroughly enjoyed being a part of the CON by helping pave the way of future nurses while caring for those in need. During her free time, Jules enjoys time with her family and friends, riding bikes, golfing, and the beach. 

Degree(s)

  • M.S. Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, Grand Canyon University, 2014
  • B.S.N. , University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 2006

Sarah Joy Locke

Assistant Clinical Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty
Interim Coordinator, FNP Specialty

Degree(s)

  • M.B.A. Health Administration, University of Colorado Denver, 2020
  • DNP Advanced Practice Leadership, Chamberlain University, 2017
  • M.S. Family Nurse Practitioner, University of Massachusetts Boston, 2010
  • B.S.N. Nursing, University of Miami, 2001

Lois J Loescher

Adjunct Instructor

My passion is the study of cancer risk reduction, prevention and control behaviors, with a focus on skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the US; early detection of cutaneous lesions is paramount for increasing survival and reducing morbidity. My research concepts of interest are risk perception, risk communication and risk reduction; cancer worry; self-efficacy and personal control; and technology acceptance. I have received funding for my research from the NIH, private foundations, and through collaborations with Queensland (AU) University of Technology. My research involves UA multidisciplinary teams comprised of co-investigators from the Colleges of Nursing, Public Health, Medicine, and Engineering, as well as Bio5 and Dermatology. I also am an active member of a research team in Australia. Strengths of my research include: (1) A focus on skin cancer lesion identification by healthcare providers not typically studied, such as primary care physicians, nurse practitioners, and massage therapists, as well as by high-risk patients; (2) Use of novel technology as interventions, e.g., mobile teledermoscopy (smartphone+app+dermoscopy attachment), internet-delivered video, to improve skin lesion diagnosis and increase provider and patient self-efficacy; (3) Targeting of skin cancer prevention behaviors in understudiedpopulations such as Hispanic adolescents  and vulnerable skin cancer high-risk populations such as solid organ transplant recipients (SOTR); (4) Evaluating training of health sciences students, and testing novel skin cancer information delivery methods in middle and high school students. My research uses quantitative methods (survey and instrument development), qualitative methods (focus groups, qualitative description) and mixed methods. As part of my joint appointment in the College of Public Health, I have developed and evaluated skin cancer prevention hybrid training for health sciences students. As a longstanding member of the UA Cancer Center, I have several years of experience developing and evaluating public and professional outreach education programs. I have been a productive member of the Skin Cancer Institute since its inception, contributing to grant submission proposals, outreach, and dissemination.

Degree(s)

  • Post doctoral Cancer Prevention and Control, National Institutes of Health, 2003
  • Ph.D. Nursing, The University of Arizona, 2001
  • M.S.N. Nursing, The University of Arizona, 1980
  • B.S.N. Nursing, The University of Wisconsin, 1974

Ashley Anne Lowe

Assistant Professor, Nursing
Member of the Graduate Faculty

Ashley A. Lowe is an Assistant Professor and Community-Engaged Translational Scientist at the University of Arizona College of Nursing Since 2024. Her research focuses on the implementation and evaluation of public health interventions, with a particular emphasis on pediatric asthma management and school-based health systems. As the Program Director of the Stock Inhaler for Schools Program, she leads a statewide initiative that ensures access to rescue medications for over 850 schools across Arizona. This program, the longest consecutively funded school-based research initiative in the United States, serves as a model for translating evidence-based practices into real-world settings. Over the past eight years, she has trained thousands of school nurses and staff in medication administration and intervention strategies, significantly improving asthma management and health outcomes in schools. Her expertise in implementation science and dissemination (D&I) methods drives her work in advancing scalable and sustainable health interventions. Her publication record in peer-reviewed journals highlights her contributions to the field, and she actively mentors graduate students across public health, medicine, and nursing disciplines. An active member of the American Thoracic Society, she collaborates with local, state, and national organizations to drive impactful, community-focused research initiatives.

Degree(s)

  • Ph.D. Health Behavior, Unive, 2021
  • M.S. Health Behavior, Unive, 2018

Julio C Loya

Assistant Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty

Degree(s)

  • Ph.D. in Nursing , University of Missouri, 2021
  • Graduate Certificate Participatory Health Research, University of Missouri, 2018
  • Graduate Certificate Public Health, University of Missouri, 2016
  • B.S.N. , Northern Arizona University, 2010
  • A.A.S. Nursing, Cochise Community College, 2004
  • B.S. General Biology, University of Arizona, 2002

Kathleen Bechstein Malkin

Senior Lecturer

My professional interests include health promotion and risk reduction in the community setting.  I am especially interested in working with pregnant women and families with young children.  As a Public Health Nurse professional, I strive to help the individuals, families and communities that I work with to achieve optimal levels of health and well-being.I enjoy interacting with students, sharing my experiences with them.  I feel that I learn as much from students as I share with them.

Degree(s)

  • M.S. Nursing, University of Arizona, 1991
  • B.S.N. Nursing, Capital University, 1979

Kari Koerner Marano

Manager, Clinical Research

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

Lorraine M Martin Plank

Clinical Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty

Degree(s)

  • Post-Master's Certificate in Family Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing Nursing, Arizona State University, 2019
  • Post-Master's Certificate in Transcultural Nursing Nursing, Duquesne, 2009
  • Ph.D. Nursing, Duquesne University, 2008
  • M.S.N. Nursing-Family Health Clinician, University of Pennsylvania, 1986
  • M.S. Public Health, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 1976
  • B.S.N. Nursing, Villanova University, 1969

Marylyn M McEwen

Adjunct Instructor

Degree(s)

  • Ph.D. in Nursing Nursing, University of Arizona, 2003
  • M.S.N. Nursing, The University of Arizona, 1987
  • B.S.N. Nursing, The University of Arizona, 1976

Kelly McLain

Program Coordinator
Kelly McLain

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

Erin McMahon

Director, Nurse Midwife Program
Assistant Clinical Professor, College of Nursing
Member of the Graduate Faculty

Degree(s)

  • Certificate Diversity and Inclusion Certificate, Cornell University, 2019
  • Ed.D. Nursing Education, Southern Connecticut State University, 2015
  • M.S.N. Community Health Nursing & Midwifery, University of California at San Diego & San Diego State University, 1999
  • B.S.N. Nursing, Fairfield University, 1994
  • B.S. Biology & Society, Cornell University, 1990

Crista Marlene Meinke

Quit Coach

PO Box 210203
TUCSON, Arizona 85721-0203

Judi Molina

Program Coordinator
Financial Aid Professional II

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

LaKyiah Rochelle Moore

Student Group B

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

Ana Acuna Morales

Research Specialist
Research Coordinator
Ana Morales Portrait

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

Angela H Norton

Assistant Clinical Professor
Angela H Norton

UA College of Med-Phoenix(Adm) 1155

I have been a nurse for over 25 years. I feel nursing is the greatest profession on earth. I started nursing in the Critical Care setting in 1997. My areas have included: ICU, Open Heart Recovery Room, Disease Management, Cardiac Rehab and the Progressive Care Unit. I started teaching nursing students in 2010. By 2012 I had received my MSN with an emphasis in Education. I also like to work in the Community. I worked with the Arizona Department of Education and the Arizona Department of Health and lead the development of The Arizona Resource Guide to Managing Food Allergies in Arizona Schools. This allowed me to speak at many conferences and schools across the State in regards to this important issue. In 2023 I received my PhD in Nursing with a minor in Educational Leadership. My research focus is moral injury in nursing.

Degree(s)

  • Ph.D. in Nursing Nursing, The University of Arizona, 2023
  • M.S.N. Nursing - Education, Grand Canyon University, 2012
  • B.S.N. Nursing, Medical College of Georgia, 1997
  • B.A. Human Services w/minor in Psychology, Mercer Univeristy, 1993

Mary F Oconnell

MA, RN, PHN
Senior Lecturer, Nursing
Part-Time Faculty

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

Mary F. O'Connell, MA, RN, PHN, HN-BC

Biobehavioral Health Science Division

Principal Lecturer

moconnel@arizona.edu(link sends e-mail)

520-626-7025

Nursing (#203)

Room Number: 

203

 Research and Clinical:

Research and Clinical Interest: 

Leadership, Maternal Child Health, Vulnerable Populations

Clinical Expertise: 

Leadership and ManagementTranscultural NursingCommunity Health NursingMaternal Child Health and PediatricsDiabetes Type TwoOnline Teaching Expertise for Integrative Therapies, Nursing Research and Leadership

 Research & Scholarship: 

 ·  Leadership and Management

·  Diabetes in Hmong and Latino Communities

·  Border Health Care

·  Breast Cancer and Prevention in Latina and Hmong Communities

·  Depression and Exercise in Hmong Women

·  Diabetes Prevention in Adolescent Latinas

·  Community Health and Public Housing Residents

·  Transcultural Nursing

·  Maternal Child Health and Pediatrics

·  Hmong and Latino Diabetic Group Visits

·  Hmong Women and Support Groups for optimal mental health

·  Special Populations and Vulnerable Populatio

 All Funding: 

    

 

  

Funding Source

 

1/1/2007-12/31/2009

Federal Public Housing Primary Care Grants

BPHC

Contributor and Site Director

1/1/2007-12/31/2009

Eliminating Health Disparities InitiativeDiabetes Program for Hmong and Latinos

Minnesota Department of Health

Project Director

1/1/2007-12/31/2007

Community Care Network Grant; Program for intensive case-management for poorly controlled patients with Diabetes

UCare of Minnesota

Project Director

1/1/2007-12/31/2007

Diabetes Prevention Program

UCare of Minnesota

Contributor to grant and Project Director

1/1/2006-12/31/2006

Diabetes Prevention Project

Minnesota Department of Health

Author of grant and Project Director

1/1/2005-12/31/2005

Hmong group visits for Diabetes Patients

Midwest Clinician Network

Assistant Project Director

1/1/2005-12/31/2007

Eliminating Health Disparities Initiative, Continuation Grant; Diabetes Program for Hmong and Latinos

Minnesota Department of Health

Contributing Author and Project Director

1/1/2004-12/31/2004

Chicas Al Ritmo de Salud Girls to the Rhythm of Health

General Mills Corporation

Project Director

1/1/2004-12/31/2004

Pearle Vision Grant; The Gift of Sight

Pearle Vision Foundation

Project Director

1/1/2003-12/31/2005

Eliminating Health Disparities Initiative, Continuation Grant, Hmong and Latinos

Minnesota Department of Health

Contributing Author of grant and Project Director

1/1/2003-12/31/2006

Federal Public Housing Primary Care Grants

BPHC

Contributor and Site Director

1/1/2002-12/31/2002

Breast Cancer Prevention

American Cancer Society

Contributor to grant and Project Director

1/1/2002-12/31/2002

Hmong and Latina Cancer Screening Outreach Program

Susan G. Komen Foundation

Author and Project Director

1/1/2002-12/31/2002

Special Populations Grant, Mental Health and SEA

BPHC

Contributing Author and Project Director

1/1/2002-12/31/2005

Diabetes Fitness Program, Por Tu Salud

Medtronic Foundation

Project Director

1/1/2001-12/31/2003

Eliminating Health Disparities Initiative, Diabetes Program for Hmong and Latinos

Minnesota Department of Health

Contributing Author of grant and Project Director

1/1/2000-12/31/2001,

Hmong and Latina Cancer Screening Outreach Program

Susan G. Komen Foundation

Author and Project Director

1/1/2000-12/31/2002

Federal Public Housing Primary Care Grants

BPHC

Contributor and Site Director

1/1/1997-12/31/1998

South East Asian Women living in Public Housing

Fannie Mae Foundation

Project Director

1/1/1997-12/31/1999

Hmong and Latino Breast Cancer Screening Outreach Program

Allina Foundation

Project Director and Principal Investigator

Publications: 

Currently there is no publications information for this individual.

Honors and Awards: 

2018 Chosen by BSN student body for Pinning at Fall Convocation

2016 Integrative Nursing Faculty Fellowship

2016 Chosen by BSN student body for Pinning at Spring and Fall Graduation.

2015 Excellence in Teaching BSN Student Body

2015 Excellence in Teaching RN/MS Student Body

2012 Excellence in Teaching

2007 Leadership Vision

Education: 

    

 

Institution/Location

Degree

Attended

Field of Study

Augburg College, Minneapolis, MN

Masters

1999-2001

Trancultural and Community Health Nursing

Bethel College

BSN

1992-1993

Nursing

Minneapolis Community College

ADN

1983-1985

Nursing

 

Cassie Ortiz

Part-Time Faculty

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

Karina M Othon-Tapia

Research Specialist

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

Betty Parisek

Associate Clinical Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty
Interim Division Chair, Nursing and Health Education
Betty Parisek

Gilbert University Center 322

Dr. Betty Parisek has been a registered nurse since 1995 with an earned MSN in 2003. She also holds a doctorate in Education Leadership from Walden University and is currently serving as the Program Director for the first of its kind UA CON Baccalaureate in Nursing with an Integrative Health focus.

Dr. Parisek’s accomplishments include a focus on the retention & success of diverse student populations. Dissertation research encouraged positive change in a college-wide Early Alert system as well as a strategic dialogue regarding use of data to inform teaching & learning. This dialogue served as the foundation for the college’s HLC accreditation ‘Informed Improvement’ initiative. As chair of a college level student outcomes committee, collaborated with a team of faculty on development of system wide strategies that more positively aligned the use of college gen ed student learning outcomes assessment with the practice of teaching & learning, and co-authored a white paper offering strategies designed to improve academic success & retention of indigenous students. 

 

Strategic initiatives included development of an alternative program design that supported student access to a nursing program while also maintaining faculty positions, & collaboration with university partners to cultivate the success of culturally diverse nursing students enrolled in the Concurrent Enrollment Program through Maricopa Nursing. Additionally, as a nursing leader in healthcare industry, Dr. Parisek developed effective & innovative strategies to ensure increasing market share in a highly competitive hospice market while also ensuring administrative oversight of a hospice team.

 

 

Honors & Awards include National Institute for Staff & Organizational Development (NISOD) Excellence In Teaching Award and the Maricopa Nursing Outstanding Alumni Achievement Award.

Degree(s)

  • Ed.D. Education, Walden University, 2011
  • M.S.N. Nursing, University of Phoenix, 2003

Juyoung Park

Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty
Professor, BIO5 Institute

Juyoung Park, PhD

Professor, Nursing

Professor, BIO5 Institute

Dr. Juyoung Park is a Professor and Associate Director of the Brain Digital Technology Laboratory within the College of Nursing. She earned her PhD in 2009 from the University of Maryland, Baltimore. Prior to joining her current institution, she served as a Professor and Chair of the Healthy Aging Academy at Florida Atlantic University's School of Social Work. Before pursuing her doctoral studies, she worked as a clinical social worker at the South Carolina Department of Mental Health.

Dr. Park’s expertise lies in chronic pain and nonpharmacological pain management for older adults with chronic conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD). Her research also explores technology-based interventions for remotely supervised home-based care for older adults with chronic conditions and their caregivers.

She was honored as a Hartford Faculty Scholar in 2011 and received funding from the John A. Hartford Foundation (2011-2013) for research work on nonpharmacological pain management among racially and ethnically diverse older adults. She was recognized in the U.S. Bone & Joint Initiative’s Young Investigators Initiative Program in 2014. Since 2017, she has been a Fellow of the Gerontological Society of America (GSA) in the Health Sciences Section.

Dr. Park’s current research interests focus on remotely supervised home-based brain stimulation approaches, including transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and nonpharmacological pain management for older adults with chronic conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, related dementias, and osteoarthritis. Her work also explores brain stimulation approaches, such as tDCS and diverse therapeutic designs, including complementary and mind-body alternative medicine techniques such as online chair yoga and qigong.

As a Principal Investigator (PI) or Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI) on several intramural, foundation, and NIH-funded grants (National Institute on Aging and National Center for Complementary Integrative Health), Dr. Park has led projects involving human subject protection, data safety and management, and budget oversight. She has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and has presented her research extensively at national and international conferences.

Degree(s)

  • Ph.D. Social Work, University of Maryland, Baltimore, 2009
  • M.S.W. Social Work, University of South Carolina, 2001
  • B.A. Interdisciplinary Studies, University of South Carolina, 1999

Lindsey Park

Clinical Research Coordinator II

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

Nic Paulos

Manager, Grants-Contracts
Assistant Director, Administrative Operations
Nicholas A Paulos

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

Mary Patricia Ohorne Petersdorf

Quit Coach

Born in Oklahoma City, 1955.

Attended primary and secondary school at Casady School, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Oklahoma City Public Schools, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Tucson Unified Schools, Tucson, Arizona; and Tulsa Public Schools, Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Attended college at Longview Community College, Kansas City, Missouri, Pima Community College, Tucson, Arizona, and Park University, Parkville, Missouri-Davis Monthan AFB Satellite Campus.

Graduated from Pima Community College with an Associate of General Studies.

Graduated from Park University with a Bachelor of Science in Social Psychology.

Work History: special needs classroom aide in Hanford, California and Tucson, Arizona; sponsor services lead operator at Children International, Kansas City, Missouri; substitute and contractual teacher at Marana Schools, Marana, Arizona; direct support specialist at Child and Family Support Services, Tucson, Arizona; children's intensive needs case manager at La Frontera Center, Tucson, Arizona; and Senior Outreach Counselor at the Network for Information and Counseling, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona. Currently employed as a Lifestyle Behavior Change Specialist at the Network for Information and Counseling, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, University of Arizona.

Raised three children as well as many cats, dogs, and fish. Currently residing at Tucson, Arizona

Degree(s)

  • B.S. Social Psychology, Park University, 1998

Jessica Rainbow

Associate Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty
Director, Clinical-Research Partnership

James Richard Reed

Adjunct Associate Clinical Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty

LTC(ret) Jim Reed DNP, MSNA, CRNA is a native of Tucson, Arizona and graduated high school from Benson Union High School in Benson, Arizona. Wanting to make something of himself but having little resources, he enlisted in the US Army in October of 1983. After completing basic and advanced individual training he was assigned to the 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) at Ft. Devens, Massachusetts. Upon completing his initial enlistment, he matriculated out of the Army and attended the University of Arizona. While a student he served in the 19th Special Forces Group (Airborne) and Army ROTC. He earned his commission as a Distinguished Military Graduate in 1992 after graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.


Jim held various assignments in the Army Medical Department including Intensive Care Nurse and Flight Nurse in the Army Burn Unit. He was accepted to the prestigious US Army Graduate Program in Anesthesia Nursing, and graduated the program Distinguished Graduate in 2000. Afterward he was assigned to the 126th Forward Surgical Team at Ft. Hood, Texas. He was then selected to join the ranks of an elite medical unit that supported Special Mission Units in Counter-Terrorist Operations in 2001. While a member of this elite unit he deployed 9 times to combat for over 1500 days in war zones. He participated in hundreds of combat missions and administered care to hundreds of casualties. Through his service he earned The Legion of Merit, 5 Bronze Stars Medals, 2 Air Medals, and many other awards and decorations.
After retiring from the Army in 2011, Jim became involved in veteran’s advocacy. Specifically, in the fight against veteran’s suicide. He has lobbied the US House and Senate and appeared before committee in support of veteran’s suicide prevention efforts. He was featured on PBS frontline speaking to the problems of opioid malprescription and addiction among veterans, and the Baltimore Sun. He has appeared as a guest in support of veterans causes on The CBS Evening News, Fox News, and The Megyn Kelly show. He has since been actively involved in a non-profit that provides service dogs to veterans with post-traumatic stress and an outdoors project for veterans.


In 2017, Jim earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Duke University as a Jonas Foundation Scholar. As an avid educator, he is the former Senior Clinical Instructor for the Army Nurse Anesthesia Program at Fort Bragg and Duke University Nurse Anesthesia Program Clinical Coordinator at Firsthealth of the Carolinas. In 2017 he took a position as faculty in the University of North Carolina at Greensboro Nurse Anesthesia Program where he served until late 2019.  He was then asked to go back into industry to direct and manage a multi-million dollar overseas and domestic operational medical effort for the US government and corporations. Jim also deployed overseas providing medical support to the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community.

 

Subsequent to this position and longing to go home to Arizona, Jim accepted a position as Associate Clinical Professor teaching the next generation of nurse anesthetists at his alma mater The University of Arizona.

 

Jim has been married to his wife Holly for 30 years whom he met in nursing school at the University of Arizona. She has been a practicing nurse for 31 years where much of her career was in the Emergency Department. They have 2 children, their son Nick is an North Carolina State University graduate, a combat veteran from the 82nd Airborne Division, and serves as a Military Intelligence Officer in the 25th Infantry Division at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson. Their daughter Heather is a graduate of The United States Military Academy at West Point and serves as a commissioned officer in the US Army at Joint Base Lewis McChord and will start law school at the University of Arizona in August of 2022. Everyone in the family to include Holly, has jumped from aircraft while in flight.

 

Degree(s)

  • DNP Nursing, Duke University, 2017
  • M.S.N. Nurse Anesthesia, US Army/ UT Health Sciences Center Houston Graduate Program in Anesthesia Nursing, 2000
  • B.S.N. Nursing, The University of Arizona, 1992

Pamela G Reed

Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty

Dr. Pamela G. Reed is Professor at The University of Arizona College of Nursing where she also served as Associate Dean for Academic Affairs. Her research has focused on well-being and mental health across the lifespan, spirituality at end-of-life, and moral distress and ethical concerns of frontline caregivers and terminally ill individuals.  Her current scholarship focuses on nursing theory, philosophy, and scientific knowledge development, and work on intermodernism as a philosophy of nursing science.  Dr. Reed’s self-transcendence theory is published in nursing theory textbooks and articles for research and practice, and her Spiritual Perspective Scale and Self-Transcendence Scale have been used by researchers around the world. In addition, she and a colleague have authored several editions of two books, Perspectives on Nursing Theory and Nursing Knowledge and Theory Innovation: Advancing the Science of Practice. Dr. Reed teaches philosophy of nursing science & practice, and theory development & evaluation to PhD and DNP nursing students. She holds a BSN, MSN (in Child/Adol PMH) and PhD (major in nursing) from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan, and an MA in philosophy from The University of Arizona. She has been a Visiting Scholar at several institutions including New York University and Duke University and is a member of the University of California-Irvine Center for Nursing Philosophy Steering Committee.  Dr. Reed is a Fellow in the American Academy of Nursing.

Sally J Reel

Adjunct Instructor

I am a doctorally prepared, American Nurse Credentialing Center board-certified family nurse practitioner. I hold RN and advanced practice licenses in the states of Arizona and West Virginia. My professional background and scholarship is primarily focused on health professions workforce development and health services for rural and urban medically underserved populations. I have extensive experience and funding to develop and implement nurse workforce (family nurse practitioner; acute care nurse practitioner; Doctor of Nursing Practice; nurse faculty development; and rural health substantive focus for PhD and graduate nursing education particularly with emphasis on rural/underserved populations). From 2003 to current term, I have secured funded for the nurse practitioner programs expanded these from approximately 36 students in 2003 when I was Director to over 250+ DNP students today. Training grants supported transitioning from a master’s NP program to a Doctor of Nursing Practice program; expanded to include an acute care NP program; transitioned from a face-to-face program to state-of-the art online programs; implemented a nurse faculty training program for PhD and DNP students through the federal Nurse Faculty Loan Program (NFLP); and implemented a primary care traineeship for family nurse practitioner DNP students who are diverse and/or practicing among rural and underserved populations. I also have significant experience with workforce development among the disciplines of medicine, pharmacy and public health, particularly as related to developing the rural health workforce including undergraduate and graduate medical education; graduate and postgraduate pharmacy education; graduate public health education from those years I directed the Arizona Area Health Education Centers (also federally funded and supported by the Arizona Lottery program). I also have extensive experience with interprofessional education and served as the Associate VP for Interprofessional Education from 2014-2018.

Taylor Ringling

Leslie S Ritter

Degree(s)

  • Postdoctoral Fellow Neurology, University of Arizona, 1998
  • Ph.D. Physiology, University of Arizona, 1996
  • M.S. Exercise and Sport Science, University of Arizona, 1992
  • M.S. Nursing, University of Arizona, 1981
  • B.S. Nursing, University of Arizona, 1974

Alayna Miriam Roberts

Part-Time Faculty

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

Julienne N Rutherford

Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty

Dr. Julienne Rutherford is Professor and John & Nell Mitchell Endowed Chair for Pediatric Nursing in the University of Arizona College of Nursing. She is a biological anthropologist whose work integrates bioanthropological theory with biomedical science. For 20 years, she has sustained a program of research exploring the intrauterine environment as a biosocial determinant of health. She studies how maternal life history and lived experience shape this earliest developmental setting, and how, in turn, the intrauterine environment influences growth, health, and development across the life course and across generations. Her innovative marmoset monkey research comprises the bulk of her16 years of continuous federal funding as PI/MPI and Co-I (total federal awards >$6M). As Principal Investigator (PI) she designed a “Womb to Womb” NICHD-funded R01 study of marmosets to determine how prenatal influences shape female reproductive development and pregnancy outcomes across generations. She and her team have shown that in the marmoset, a mother's own birth weight and litter size are associated with her pregnancy outcomes in adulthood and the reproductive development of her daughters. She is currently funded as an MPI on an NIA-funded R56 study of marmoset developmental genetics. These studies in the marmoset demonstrate the ways maternal health and child outcomes may be shaped by events beyond the reach of individual agency. She applies this justice-informed lens to collaborate with nurse midwifery scholars to examine the relationships among experiences of Covid-19-dictated changes in care, obstetric racism, and physiological measures of stress, laying the groundwork for NIH grant submissions to implement prospective studies of the impact of obstetric racism and the lingering effects of the pandemic on the physical and mental health of mothers and their children through the first 3 years of life. Dr. Rutherford has produced 45 publications (cited over 1600 times), over 60 conference presentations, dozens of invited talks, and multiple plenary and keynote addresses at national and international meetings. She was a UIC Researcher of the Year Rising Star in Clinical Sciences, American Society of Primatologists Legacy Awardee, and National Academy of Science Kavli Foundation Fellow. Further, Dr. Rutherford has been recognized as a teacher and mentor of nursing students and faculty as a Robert Wood Johnson Future of Nursing mentor and as the recipient of the American College of Nurse Midwives Excellence in Teaching Award and multiple major teaching awards from the University of Illinois at Chicago.

 

Degree(s)

  • Ph.D. Biological Anthropology, Indiana University, 2007
  • M.A. Biological Anthropology, Indiana University, 2004
  • B.A. Anthropology and Zoology (double major), Miami University, 1994

Hillary Ruvalcaba

Clinical Research Coordinator III

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

Degree(s)

  • B.S., Molecular and Cellular Biology - Genetics and Human Health Emphasis, University of Arizona, 2022

Vladimir Semin

Lecturer

Gilbert University Center 301

I was born in Prague, Czech Republic.  My clinical background spans the better part of twenty years in the adult critical care, cardiovascular intensive care, and trauma clinical environments.  I enjoy motorcycling and traveling when my schedule permits.

Degree(s)

  • FNP Family Nurse Practitioner with an emphasis on rural health care delivery, Northern Arizona University, 2004
  • B.S.N. Nursing, University of Phoenix, 1999
  • ADN in Nursing Nursing, Gateway Community College, 1996
  • LPN LPN in Nursing, Gateway Community College, 1994
  • Ed.D. Educational Leadership University Track, Northern Arizona University

Joan L Shaver

Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty

Joan Shaver, PhD, RN, FAAN is Professor and prior Dean (2009-2018) of the College of Nursing at the University of Arizona. She is Dean Emeritus, University of Illinois at Chicago, where she served for 13 years.  She has been a member of the National Advisory Council for the NIH National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR) and the Scientific Advisory Committee for the Alberta Heritage Foundation for Medical Research in Canada. She is past President of the American Academy of Nursing and was a panel member for the IOM Health Professions Education Summit. Dr. Shaver co-led a NIH NINR-funded Center for Women’s Health Research and the research core for the National Center of Excellence in Women’s Health. In Chicago, she served on the Board of Directors for Advocate HealthCare, a multi-hospital, integrated, health care system.

Dr. Shaver’s scientific scholarship encompasses sleep issues for women in menopausal transition and in women with fatiguing and painful health conditions, mainly fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. She has conducted NIH-funded research in women’s health and sleep science, publishing her scientific work in nursing, medical and interdisciplinary journals.

Dr. Shaver holds a PhD degree in Physiology and Biophysics (School of Medicine) and a master’s in nursing (School of Nursing) both from the University of Washington, Seattle, WA and a baccalaureate degree (from University of Alberta in Canada).

Degree(s)

  • Ph.D. Physiology and Biophysics, University of Washington School of Medicine, 1976
  • M.S.N. Nursing, University of Washington School of Nursing, 1970
  • B.S.N. Nursing, University of Alberta, 1966

Graciela Emilia Silva Torres

Clinical Professor
Professor, Public Health
Member of the Graduate Faculty

I obtained my Doctorate degree in Epidemiology from the University of Arizona Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health in 2004. My research focus is on sleep, sleep disordered breathing, obesity, asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and infectious diseases.

Degree(s)

  • Ph.D. Doctor of Philosophy in Epidemiology, University of Arizona, 2004
  • B.S. Medical Technologist, University of Arizona, 1991

Meghan Brianna Skiba

Assistant Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty
Assistant Professor, Clinical Translational Sciences

Dr. Meghan Skiba is an Assistant Professor in the College of Nursing at the University of Arizona. She received her doctorate in Health Behavior Health Promotion from the Mel & Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, has additional formal graduate training in epidemiology and nutritional sciences, and completed post-doctoral training at Oregon Health & Science University. Dr. Skiba has experience delivering remote diet and physical activity interventions as well as health coaching, accelerometry, community-engaged research, and advanced data analytics. Her research has emphasis in biological aging, digital health, and dyads. She is interested in addressing cancer health disparities by connecting cancer survivors and their caregivers to the skills and behaviors to live their healthiest and longest life.

Degree(s)

  • MPH Epidemiology, University of Arizona Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, 2020
  • Ph.D. Health Behavior Health Promotion, University of Arizona Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, 2020
  • Dietetic Internship Medical Nutrition Therapy, University of Houston, 2016
  • Graduate Certificate College Teaching, University of Arizona, 2016
  • M.S. Nutritional Sciences, University of Arizona, 2016
  • B.S. Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, University of Arizona, 2012

John Ryan Sparks

Assistant Clinical Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty

Job Title: U of A - Assistant Clinical Professor, MHC Healthcare - Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Organization: University of Arizona College of Nursing, MHC Healthcare

Education: Certificate NDP Autism Spectrum Disorder University of Arizona 2022, Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Arizona 2019, Bachelor Science Nursing from Northern Arizona University 2015, Bachelor Science Management Information Systems from the University of Arizona 2003, Bachelor Science Entrepreneurship from the University of Arizona 2003.

Professional Affiliations: American Psychiatric Nurses Association, American Nurses Association, Arizona Nurses Association, Sigma Theta Tau

"John Sparks, in his professional roles, holds a faculty position at the University of Arizona, in the College of Nursing, Doctor of Nursing Practice, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program. He also serves the broader Pima County community, as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, working at the Federally Qualified Health Center MHC Healthcare. John lives in Sahuarita, Arizona, where he is serving his third term on the Sahuarita Unified School District Governing Board, and he currently holds the role of President of the Board. John considers himself blessed to be partnered in life with Kirsten, his wife of nearly 25 years, that is an ever-supportive presence in his life. John also finds great enjoyment and pride in being the father to his four children, ranging from freshman at the U of A to freshman in High School, that are all sources of kindness, generosity, and positive energy in their many endeavors. John was drawn to a career in nursing after learning through the experiences of life, that he finds his greatest professional fulfillment when he was able to serve others, as they strive to meet their own goals and dreams. This drive to be a source of consistent support is pervasive in all aspects of his life and he feels grateful, lucky, and blessed to be able to drive daily in an energetic effort to better the lives of those around him. He is honored and humbled to be recognized as a Nursing Fabulous Fifty and hopes to continue to be worthy of this recognition in all aspects of his life."

Morgan Stock

MSN-Ed, RN, CNE
Clinical Instructor, Nursing
Part-Time Faculty
Morgan Stock

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

Degree(s)

  • Fellowship, Integrative Nursing Faculty Fellowship 2017/2018 cohort, University of Arizona, 2018
  • M.S.N., Nursing Education, Western Governors University, 2015
  • B.S.N., Nursing, University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, 2007

Ruth E Taylor-Piliae

Professor
Interim Director, PhD Program
Member of the Graduate Faculty

Ruth Taylor-Piliae, PhD, RN, FAHA, FAAN is a Professor and the PhD Program Director (interim) in the College of Nursing at the University of Arizona. She is recognized internationally as a nurse scientist and mind-body exercise interventionist, with training in cardiovascular epidemiology and clinical trials. Her research is focused on promoting physical activity and improving patient-centered outcomes among older adults with heart disease and stroke through the implementation of innovative non-pharmacologic interventions such as Tai Chi. Her passion to improve the lives of those with cardiovascular disease and stroke also translates to real world impact, as evident by widespread and continued media interest in her research. In a recent Bibliometric Evaluation of Global Tai Chi Research from 1980–2020 (International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2021), Dr. Taylor-Piliae was ranked 6th among the top 10 authors during this time. Dr. Taylor-Piliae received her B.S.N. from California State University Fresno, her M.N. from the Chinese University of Hong Kong, and her Ph.D. from the University of California San Francisco. She completed a 2-year post-doctoral fellowship in cardiovascular epidemiology and prevention at Stanford University. Dr. Taylor-Piliae has received funding as a principal investigator from the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association, Hospital Authority of Hong Kong, National Institute of Health, and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. She reviews for professional journals and has had over 90 peer-reviewed manuscripts published in top-tiered journals both within nursing and inter-professional journals. She is highly cited for her work (citations>5500, h-index=38, i10-index=65). Dr. Taylor-Piliae is a long-standing member in the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association, European Society of Cardiology, Sigma Theta Tau’s International Honor Society of Nursing, and the American Academy of Nursing. She has received several teaching, research and service awards including the Teaching Excellence Award in the PhD Program, Suzanne Van Ort Peer Award for Graduate Teaching, the Extraordinary Faculty Award, the Distinguished Alumni Award from the Chinese University of Hong Kong, the Mathy Mezey Excellence in Aging Award from the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing Council, and the Award of Distinction for Excellence in Research from Sigma Theta Tau International, Beta Mu Chapter.

Degree(s)

  • Ph.D. Nursing, University of California San Francisco, 2005
  • M.S.N. Nursing, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 1998
  • B.S.N. Nursing, California State University, Fresno, 1980

Stephanie A Tippin

Associate Clinical Professor

Stephanie Tippin, DNP, NP, RN

Stephanie Tippin is an Associate Clinical Professor at the University of Arizona. Her clinical background is in women's health and family practice. A nurse educator since 2005, she has experience at the pre-licensure, RN-BSN and graduate level. Her area of expertise is curriculum development, specializing in integration of leadership, quality improvement, safety, and systems thinking competencies in nursing programs. Stephanie has served on multiple institutional committees and participates on medical mission teams in Belize.

 

Degree(s)

  • D.N.P. , Indiana Wesleyan University, 2020
  • M.S.N. Family Nurse Practitioner, Ball State University, 2005
  • B.S.N. , University of Saint Francis, 2000

Sarah Torabi

Assistant Clinical Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty

Sarah A. Torabi received her RN degree in 1983 from Eastern Oklahoma State College. She completed her Masters of Science in Nurse Anesthesia in 2006 from Akron University (Ohio) and her Doctor of Nursing Practice from Northern Arizona University in 2015. Her nursing career includes Labor & Delivery, Pediatrics, and SICU experience.

Dr. Torabi’s anesthesia experience include The Ohio State University Medical Center, Grant Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, Tuba City Regional Health Care Corporation on the Navajo reservation, Verde Valley Medical Center in close proximity to beautiful Sedona, Arizona, Kona Community Hospital and Kona Ambulatory Surgery Center  located on the Big Island, Hawaii. Her anesthesia subspecialty is OB anesthesia.


She joined the University of Arizona Nurse Anesthesia program in August 2016 as a Clinical Assistant Professor and served as the Interim Assistant Director from October 2016 through December 2017. She is the course chair and lecturer for Foundations of Anesthesia II, the course chair for Co-Existing Diseases and a Sim Lab instructor. She is also the course chair for Advanced Principles of Anesthesia; lecturing in Obstetrics & GYN, Neuraxial and Regional Anesthesia ,Orthopedics, and Thoracic Anesthesia.

Dr. Torabi serves as the Chair for several DNP-Nurse anesthesia students as well as serving as a committee member for other DNP students at the U of A. She is a member of the UA Nurse Anesthesia Admission Committee, UA Nurse Anesthesia Advisory Council, Native American Faculty, INCATS advisor and a College of Nursing Equity, Diversity and Inclusion committee member.

Dr. Torabi previously was the chief CRNA at Verde Valley Medical Center and for Medstream Anesthesia facilities on the Big Island, Hawaii. She served as a director for the Hawaii Association of Nurse Anesthesiology in 2021-2022. She is the lead CRNA at a facilty located in the East Bay area of California.

Degree(s)

  • Doctor of Nursing Practice Nursing, Northern Arizona University, 2015
  • M.S.N. Nurse Anesthesia, University of Akron, 2006

Joseph A Weichsel

Student Group C

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

Amy Winchester

Lecturer, Nursing

Born in Tucumcari, New Mexico.  Our family moved frequently until we finally moved overseas to Beirut, Lebanon.  I studied all three high school years and after graduation, studied at the American University of Beirut for 1 1/2 years, doing my undergraduate nursing studies.  Returning to America in 1971, I finished my BSN at the University of Arizona in 1975, graduating with high distinction.  I am married, with eight children, all of whom are graduates from the U of A, and three with advanced degrees.  I completed my Masters in Nursing Education from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2016.  I am active in my church and with community outreach through Shepherd's Arms, an outreach to famililies with children who have disabilities.  I also play bass guitar and flute with our church worship team.

Degree(s)

  • M.S.N. Nursing Education, Indiana Wesleyan University, 2016
  • B.S.N. Nursing, University of Arizona, 1975

Ava Claribel Wong

Program Manager, UArizona SANE

PO Box 210203
TUCSON, Arizona 85721-0203

Shu Fen Wung

Professor
Professor, BIO5 Institute
Member of the Graduate Faculty
Director, Nursing-Engineering Initiatives
Professor, Electrical and Computer Engineering

Dr. Wung is a Professor at the College of Nursing and BIO5 Institute, Director of Translational Health Sciences for the Center to Stream Health in Place (C2SHIP), and an acute care nurse practitioner.  She has more than 25  years of clinical research experience in the effective and safe use of health technologies and big data to provide precision monitoring strategies for cardiovascular and acute illnesses.  Dr. Wung received her M.S. (Cardiovascular Clinical Specialist), Post-M.S. (Acute Care Nurse Practitioner), and Ph.D. in Nursing from the University of California San Francisco. Dr. Wung is a fellow of the Summer Genetic Institute at the National Institutes of Health.  Dr. Wung has received funding as the principal investigator from the National Institutes of Health, National Science Foundation, and professional associations, including the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society for Nursing, Emergency Nurses Association Foundation, American Association of Critical Care Nurses, and Oncology Nursing Society Foundation. She has published over 50 peer-reviewed manuscripts in nursing and inter-disciplinary journals, 4 book chapters, and over 160 local/regional, national, and international presentations.

For more biography and research profile, please visit https://wung.faculty.arizona.edu/

Degree(s)

  • Ph.D. Nursing, University of California San Francisco, 1999
  • M.S. Nursing, University of California San Francisco, 1995

Silvia Xu

Assistant Dean, Finance and Administration
Silvia Xu

PO Box 210203
Tucson, Arizona 85721

Janay R Young

Assistant Clinical Professor
Member of the Graduate Faculty

Dr. Janay Young began her nursing career with an ADN from Pima Community College, earned her BSN from Grand Canyon University, and completed her Doctorate in Nursing at the University of Arizona. She is board certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. She completed the Integrative Medicine Fellowship at the University of Arizona Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine and has certification in auricular acupuncture.

Dr. Young has over 19 years of experience in nursing and health care, and currently provides outpatient mental health care. Her clinical work in Tucson has predominantly been in underserved communities in which trauma, suicide, substance use, and mental illness rates are considerably higher than the national average. She has extensive experience working with traumatized client populations, in both rural and urban settings. She has over a decade of RN experience in acute and critical care, case management and staff education in an academic teaching level-1 trauma center and has served as adjunct faculty in undergraduate and graduate nursing programs. She is active in professional organizations including the American Holistic Nurses Association, Integrative Medicine for the Underserved, and the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association. She has presented at local and state conferences on trauma and integrative management of PTSD including acupuncture. In addition, she volunteers as a PMHNP for the Florence Project completing psychiatric evaluations for survivors of torture and trauma seeking asylum, and as a FNP providing urgent outpatient care and acupuncture to indigenous and rural clients in Baja, Mexico.  

Degree(s)

  • D.N.P. Nursing, Univeristy of Arizona, 2017