 
ACHS Head Faculty provides the inspiration behind our innovative programs and
comprehensive curriculum. The Head Faculty carefully selects the teaching staff
on merits such as technical expertise, clinical experience, educational
background, training, and the quality of attention given to our students.
ACHS Head Faculty:
Dorene Petersen, President, Principal, and CEO
Erika Yigzaw, Sr. Vice President
Our instructors focus on providing a highly experiential education using the
latest educational training and best practices. All ACHS faculty are reviewed
by the Head Faculty on a regular basis. Each faculty member is approved by the Oregon Office of Degree Authorization.
Oregon Faculty
Adjunct Faculty
Administrative Staff
ACHS instructors are full faculty members and serve as academic guides
throughout a student's chosen program.
Head Faculty:
Dorene Petersen, BA, Dip.NT, Dip.Acu,
RH (AHG), President, Principal, and CEO
dorenepetersen@achs.edu
The American College of Healthcare Sciences, founded in 1978 by Dorene Petersen, originated in New Zealand, later opening additional branches in Australia and Hong Kong. Today, though, ACHS is housed entirely on the U.S. campus located in Portland, Oregon.
In May 2009 the College officially changed its name from the Australasian College of Health Sciences to the American College of Healthcare Sciences. The name change celebrates the College's 20th anniversary of operations in the United States and better represents the College's long-term goals as an Institute of Higher Learning in the U.S.
President and founder Dorene Petersen holds a BA in Archaeology and Anthropology from Otago University, New Zealand, a Diploma in Natural Therapeutics from the South Pacific College of Natural Therapies in Auckland, New Zealand, and is a certified acupuncturist with specialized training in Chinese herbal medicine and moxibustion.
In addition to her work as President of the College, Dorene also teaches courses for ACHS and leads the annual ACHS Summer School study-abroad programs to Greece, which explore holistic health, Mediterranean nutrition, and aromatherapy distillation, among other topics. She is an eCollege certified online instructor and is a faculty member meeting the qualifications prescribed by the Oregon Office of Degree authorization. She stays abreast of current methodologies through various trainings with the Distance Education Training Council and by regularly attending conferences about online learning, including the CITE conferences in Denver in 2005, 2006, and 2007.
Dorene regularly lectures about medical herbalism, aromatherapy, and iridology, including appearances at: The South Pacific College of Natural Therapies (NZ), the National College of Naturopathic Medicine (NCNM) and the Aesthetics Institute, both in Portland, Oregon, and at the Birthingway School of Midwifery in Oregon.
In addition, Dorene has appeared on various TV and radio shows, including Good Morning Oregon and the National Radio Show Voice of America, and has presented papers at: The Herb Growers and Marketers Conference in Hyannis, Massachusetts; at the International Scientific Aromatherapy Symposium in Grasse, France; and at the International Herb Association Conference in Portland, Oregon. Her articles about aromatherapy have appeared in publications worldwide, including: Alternative Therapies in Clinical Practice, The News Quarterly, Making Scents, The Herbarist, and on Blogcritics.org.
Dorene currently serves as Chair of the Aromatherapy Registration Council (ARC), an independent, nonprofit organization that administers the national examination in aromatherapy to ensure minimum standards of training and safety knowledge of registered aromatherapists. Petersen is also a professional member of the American Herbalists Guild. In 2009, Dorene was awarded the Professional Service Award from the International Herb Association for her outstanding contributions to the herb industry.
Dorene is active with the Distance Education Training Council (DETC), and chaired the DETC annual meeting and conference in Seattle in 2006. She is also a member of the Research and Educational Standards Subcommittee of the DETC.
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Erika Yigzaw, B.Com, LL.B. (Hons), B
Commerce, Senior Vice President
erikayigzaw@achs.edu
Erika Yigzaw is the Senior Vice President at ACHS. She focuses on the coordination and delivery of the highest quality online classes and overseeing implementation of ACHS's outcomes assessment program (which she developed) and cycle of improvement on the academic side.
She holds a Bachelors Degree (B.Com) in Commerce (Economics major); an LL.B. (first professional law degree) from the University of Otago Law School; and has completed the Master Gardener program through Oregon State University.
Before joining ACHS USA in 1997, she spent three years practicing corporate commercial law with one of New Zealand’s largest commercial law firm, Bell Gully Buddle Weir, in the Wellington then Auckland offices. She advised several multinational dietary supplement companies as well as being involved with mergers and acquisitions and intellectual property issues. She is a past member of the New Zealand Law Society. She has been a speaker at IHA and HGMN conferences in the natural health industry and at the 2006 Fall workshop of the Distance Education Training Council (DETC). She is a Licensed Oregon Private Career School Teacher.
In addition to her professional training and experience, Erika has been involved with ACHS since it was founded in New Zealand. She worked part time for ACHS through school and part of College, and managed the New Zealand office of the College during summer break from Law school. She has been with ACHS in the USA since 1997.
She has been an advisor to the Aromatherapy Registration Council since its inception in 1997 and continues to fulfill the role of volunteer webmaster for that non-profit group. She is a member of the Herb Growers and Marketers Network (HGMN) and has presented at both the national conference for the HGMN and the International Herb Association. She works with Subject Specialists to develop new curriculum and coordinates teams of faculty, staff, and specialists for course updates.
Erika has a variety of experiences in distance education methodology and administration. Erika has taken programs by distance learning in Spanish through New Zealand Correspondence Schools and eCommerce through Portland Community College. She stays abreast of current methodologies through various conferences and courses with the DETC and by regularly attending conferences on online learning, including the CITE conferences in Denver. She is a DETC accreditation evaluation team member and serves on site visits for initial and re-accreditation for DETC. Erika also presented at the DETC Fall conference 2006 on student outcomes assessment programs and in 2008 was nominated to join the Business Standards Committee of the DETC.
Most recently, Erika completed the Master Gardener program through Oregon State University. She volunteers throughout the Portland area as a Master Gardener and is an advocate of sustainable living and green practices in both her personal and professional life. In her spare time, Erika and her family are starting a lavender farm just south of Portland, where they also keep bantams, horses, cats, a dog, fish, and occasionally fostered alpacas, llamas, and goats.
“I love that my job combines my love of holistic health and sustainable living with my academic and business skills, and at the same time, empowers others to live healthier and happier lives. I feel very fortunate to be involved with the growth and success of ACHS and our students and graduates.” says Erika.
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Dr. Arianna Staruch, ND., Academic Dean
ariannastaruch@achs.edu
An ACHS faculty member since 2003, Dr. Arianna Staruch was recently appointed the ACHS Academic Dean in July 2009. As Academic Dean, Dr. Staruch is responsible for the management and oversight of ACHS faculty, and she works closely with the ACHS President and Senior Vice President on curriculum development and outcomes assessment.
Dr. Staruch previously worked in medical research, first at Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and then at Cornell University Medical College, both in New York City. While at Cornell University Medical College, Dr. Staruch was promoted to department manager, supervised a staff of 11, and oversaw a half-million dollar renovation project. Dr. Staruch's department was subject to both state and federal regulations requiring annual reports, as well as site visits. In addition, the department sought and obtained accreditation by an outside accrediting body, which improved the researchers' ability to apply for grants.
Dr. Staruch later graduated from the National College of Natural Medicine and maintained a private practice in Oregon focused on women's health as a naturopathic physician, prior to becoming Academic Dean. She still sees her long-time patients on occasion.
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Oregon Faculty/Adjunct Faculty:
Mamie Allen, B.S., M.S.
mamieallen@achs.edu
Mamie Allen is originally from Washington, DC, and relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, two years ago. She is currently a college instructor in Atlanta. She has experience working with a student base that is young as well as working with adults enrolled in an Associate’s or Bachelor’s of Science Degree Program such as Health Care, Medical Assisting, Medical Office Administration, Health Care Management, and Health Information Management.
Her academic experience includes a Bachelor's of Science in Health Management from Howard University and a Master's of Science in Organizational Management with a concentration in Public and Community Health from Trinity University located in Washington, DC. Presently, she is working towards her Doctorate in Public Health at Walden University.
Public Health issues have always interested Mamie, specifically the process of disease and how it affects certain populations, and the various treatments that are available and accessible for those diseases. She’s always had an interest in health and various ways of diminishing poor health habits.
Her professional experience consists of various positions within hospitals and teaching institutions. While living in DC, she worked at Howard University Hospital in Administration for specialty practice programs. She’s also facilitated hospital cancer programs in gathering, analyzing and disseminating data to the community, which impacts public health.
Mamie is excited to be a part of ACHS’s learning community, educating our future health professionals.
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Dr. Marie Berger, BS, MS, Ph.D.
marieberger@achs.edu
Dr. Marie Berger comes to ACHS with more than thirty years of teaching and administrative experience, including curriculum development and evaluation in universities and hospitals in the U.S and overseas.
Dr. Berger completed her Bachelor's in Nursing and Psychology at the University of Houston and her Master of Science in Educational Psychology at the University of Utah. She also earned her Doctorate of Philosophy, Urban Studies, with a concentration in Management and Administration at Portland State University.
Dr. Berger has served on the faculty of some of the Northwest’s most presitigous medical teaching institutions, including Oregon Health & Science University and the University of Portland. She was also recruited by the University of Colorado School of Medicine to act as Associate Director of Administration at the newly constructed 850-bed King Khalid Hospital and Outpatient Clinics in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in the early 1980s, where she again worked from 1997 to 2000. There she was responsible for developing policies and procedures, standards, recruitment, and a number of other health care-related activities.
Dr. Berger now resides in Portland, Oregon. When not teaching, she enjoys travel, reading, beading (her new hobby), and spending relaxing time with her two cats, Schatze and Penelope.
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Mary Beth Broom, BS, MA
marybethbroom@achs.edu
Mary Beth Broom graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelors degree in Alternative Medicine from Everglades University. She has also earned a Masters degree in Education in Instructional Technology from American InterContinental University and has completed additional graduate work in the field of Nutrition Science at Huntington College of Health Sciences. She has been teaching nutrition and serving as a Wellness Counselor in the field of Complementary and Alternative Medicine for several years.
Mary Beth previously owned a private complementary and alternative medicine counseling business where she instructed clients on the options available to them, while working hand in hand with their physicians. She plans to pursue her PhD in the field of nutrition after completing her first book.
She has served as the president of the Student Nursing Association at Pearl River Community College, Vice President of the Education Network club at American InterContinental University, and is the Parish Family Life Director and a member of the Parish Council at her church where she is actively involved.
She has given of her time to be a Support Group Leader for Celiac patients and has volunteered her talents as a web page designer to various worthwhile entities. She has over 12 years experience as a private/home school teacher and administrator.
Mary Beth lives in south Mississippi with her husband, their seven children, one dog, several cats and a constant litter of kittens.
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Reuven Cohen, M.S., D.O.
reuvencohen@achs.edu
My passion is to share the wonderful experiences and knowledge I have accumulated as an OB/Gyn physician, pilot, traveler, diver, MIS director, and educator, for the purpose of illuminating the knowledge students will accumulate in my courses. I enjoy interacting and communicating with each student. I try to teach, however, in the way each student, as a unique individual, finds it easiest to learn
I have taught students both on-ground and online over the past ten years in medical, pharmacy and healthcare information programs and also as a department chair. What a fantastic experience! It was all about each and every student I came into contact with. Educationally, I have a medical degree from the Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine (1972) and a master's degree in computer information systems from Nova Southeastern University (1998).
The years I spent as an osteopathic physician were wonderful. I specialized in OB/Gyn, performing surgery and assisting mothers and babies at the moment of birth. Loved by patients (but not quite so much by fellow doctors), I was highly patient-oriented and utilized the latest medical techniques to insure safe journeys. I delighted in more natural methods and especially loved to participate in "gentle birthing" scenarios. What amazing things newborns would do when their senses were not overloaded in those first moments in the world!
My philosophy of wellness includes all modalities shown to be beneficial, beginning with those that are least intrusive to the human body's ability to normalize itself. During my practice I placed special emphasis on the role of the musculoskeletal system in the maintenance of health and treatment of illnesses. But first and always, do no harm.
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Jerry Cronin, BS, D.C.
jerrycronin@achs.edu
Dr. Cronin started his education in pre-med, but soon realized there had to be a better way to help people with their illnesses than conventional medicine, so he changed his major to Chiropractic. Dr. Cronin opened his practice in the South Jersey/Philadelphia region in 1997. At that time he was introduced to aromatherapy, which he started to use on his patients with much success. Dr. Cronin completed his graduated studies in Marietta, Georgia, at Life University and then settled in South Jersey, where he currently lives with his wife and son. He spends his free time traveling.
Dr. Cronin has been teaching allied health care classes both in the classroom and online for more than five years. He has also been an instructor in health care and many of the sciences, such as anatomy and physiology, environmental science, and human biology for the past 14 years.
Dr. Cronin has a Bachelor's of Science from Regents University (now Excelsior), as well as his Chiropractic degree from Life University in Georgia.
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Helen Delfakis, MS, RD
helendelfakis@achs.edu
Helen (Eleni) Delfakis, MS, RD, is an author and online instructor. She also maintains a diet and health website and promotes healthy living through writing and public speaking.
Helen's research interests include holistic nutrition and wellness, weight management, and obesity prevention, and she is a registered dietitian who earned a Bachelor's and Master's of Dietetics, with an emphasis in nutrition education, from the University of Arizona.
For the past 25 years Helen has been a nutrition and wellness advocate committed to educating and inspiring people to achieve optimal health by focusing on disease prevention and total body fitness. She has previous experience in food service management, and is the author of several articles and two books: Healthy Living from a Greek Island and How to Achieve Good Health and Enjoy What You Eat.
Helen has two daughters, Jeannie and Konstantina, and two grandsons, Andreas and Nicholas. In addition to her her passion for healthy living, her interests include: art, culture, music, and creating healthy culinary masterpieces. Helen lives in the U.S., but she spends most summers in the Aegean Islands with family and life-long friends.
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Frank Foderaro, DC, MS, CCSP
frankfoderaro@achs.edu
Dr. Frank Foderaro completed his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Southern California College of Health Sciences, and has post-graduate education in Chiropractic Sports and Recreational Injuries. He is a Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician through the American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians. Dr. Foderaro also holds a Master of Science degree in Educational Technology from National University, and a Bachelor of Science in Sports Medicine from Marietta College.
Over the past 16 years Dr. Foderaro has taught health related subjects in both online and classroom settings including Clinical Chiropractic Science, Alternative and Complementary Medicine, Biomechanics, Biology, Principles of Conditioning Athletes, and Measurement and Evaluation in Kinesiology.
Dr. Foderaro practiced Chiropractic in Southern California for about 20 years. Although his specialty is in sports and recreational injuries his practice was not limited to only sports injuries. His interests also include clinical nutrition and botanical medicine.
Dr Foderaro recently moved with his wife and 5 children to Idaho so that he could spend more time with his family and have a better quality of life. He enjoys performing and writing music, and is also planning to cultivate a medicinal garden.
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Dr. Mary Fry
maryfry@achs.edu
Dr. Mary Fry completed her undergraduate Bachelors of Science training in Nutritional Biochemistry from McGill University in Montreal, Canada. Following her undergraduate studies, Dr. Fry traveled extensively through South and Southeast Asia. Dr. Fry continued her formal studies in naturopathic medicine, obtaining her degree from the National College of Naturopathic Medicine (NCNM) in 2004. At NCNM, she completed certification training in homeopathy.
Commensurate with naturopathic studies, Dr. Fry began informal studies in psychology, later traveling abroad to partake in an intensive study program at the C.G. Jung Institute of Zurich and attending monthly lectures and workshops offered by the Oregon Friends of C.G. Jung. Studying psychology deepened her understanding of remedy states as they appear in her patients. She remains actively involved in her learning as a Board member of the Oregon Friends of C.G. Jung.
Dr. Fry recently completed a post-doctoral research fellowship in the department of Psychiatry at Oregon Health & Science University. During her fellowship, Dr. Fry learned how to conduct and analyze research and investigated the use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine in the treatment of mental illness.
Currently Dr. Fry maintains a private practice in Portland, Oregon focusing on the homeopathic and naturopathic treatment of mental illness. She looks forward to engaging students of ACHS in learning about the healing potential of holistic therapies.
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Deryl Gulliford, MHA, FAAMA
derylgulliford@achs.edu
Deryl was born and raised in northwest Ohio. Athletics were very important to him growing up, and he was fortunate enough to achieve all-state honors in football and baseball. Deryl continued his athletics at Ohio State University while studying health sciences, and upon graduation practiced respiratory therapy and cardiovascular technology for several years prior to training in community health administration. He received a Master’s degree in health administration/health planning from the University of Cincinnati in 1985.
Deryl also studied in the British National Health Service in 1990-91, completing a fellowship in the NHS, London. He is now a Fellow of the American Academy of Medical Administrators and is the 2005 William Newcomer Health care Executive of the Year for the United States.
Deryl’s mother Cora Jane Gulliford spent her entire career promoting natural health as manager and educator of a community nutrition center. Deryl feels he is a stronger and healthier person today because of her influence and her teachings. He grew up in a culture of natural health.
Throughout his career, community wellness and holistic medicine have been crucial to his personal mission and success. He has held CEO positions at three hospitals since 1991, including Community Memorial Hospital in Defiance County, Ohio, which made the “Top 100 Hospital” list of Modern Healthcare magazine. Deryl recently completed construction of a new community health care facility for Stevens County Hospital in southwest Kansas (Hugoton) and now serves as CEO of two community hospitals in Oklahoma. He is also Vice-President of the Pioneer Health Network, a voluntary group of 18 community hospitals and clinics in Oklahoma and Kansas. In all of his hospitals, Deryl has insisted upon a prominent role for complementary and alternative medicine.
Recently, Deryl was selected National Chairman of the Small and Rural Health care Section of the American Academy of Medical Administrators (AAMA). He’s published six books and more than 20 professional journal articles in the health care field, presenting many of these at state and national health care conferences.
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Deborah Halvorson, BA, RA
deborahhalvorson@achs.edu
Deborah, a Registered Aroma therapist, currently teaches Aromatherapy, Herbal, and Natural Health workshops in Southern California.
Her herbal education began as a child growing up on an organic farm. She received a bachelor's degree in Spanish Education from the University of Delaware, and taught high school Spanish and Latin for 13 years. For the past five years, she has balanced the responsibilities of being a stay-at-home mother with taking classes to increase her knowledge of complementary and alternative medicine.
She has completedAroma201 and Nat 201 at ACHS and is working toward a Diploma in Holistic Health Practice. She has also taken herbal classes at the California School of Herbal Studies and has studied under herbalist Rosemary Gladstar and Aromatherapist Mindy Green. Deborah is a member of Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals, the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy, and United Plant Savers.
She lives with her husband and three children, ages 9, 6, and 4, in Huntington Beach, California, where she is also a School Board President. In addition to herbs and aromatherapy, her passions include spending time with her children, reading, gardening, yoga, and camping with her family.
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Laura Hatton, BS, MBA
laurahatton@achs.edu
Laura Hatton is originally from the Bay Area. She graduated with a BS in Business Administration from San Jose State University and completed an MBA in Finance from Golden Gate University while working for Intel. In 1993, Laura left Intel to pursue motherhood and home school teaching. At the same time, Laura suffered with significant health problems, which is when she became interested in health and nutrition. She later received a MS in Human Nutrition from the University of Bridgeport and is a Certified Clinical Nutritionist through The International and American Associations of Clinical Nutritionists (IAACN).
Laura currently resides in Arizona, where she works as a private nutritionist and teaches community seminars. Laura says, "I love to teach health and nutrition. I also became a Certified Personal Trainer and believe this aspect of health is also very critical. Teaching good lifestyle habits is truly my passion.""
When she isn't teaching, Laura likes to get outdoors with her husband, including jogging, walking, hiking, bird watching, kayaking, and camping. She has four children, two dogs, and one cat. She and her husband also live part-time in Ecuador, where there is a free clinic; Laura plans provide maternal and infant nutrition services at the clinic.
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Barbara "Tai" Lovelace, B.A., M.A.
tailovelace@achs.edu
Barbara grew up in Iowa where she was deeply influenced by her grandparents’ lifestyles. Her grandmother was a pioneer, sod-house prairie herbalist, who grew plants and produced formulas with Native American and old European recipes for the area settlers. The other grandparents were organic farmers and gardeners who saved generational seed for the national heirloom seed bank. Her mother was a naturalist before it was fashionable to “be green” and would cook up intriguing meals like stir-fry dandelion heads and squash blossoms with tofu slices. As a teenager this was embarrassing, but now many of these memories for healthy living are being successfully practiced in her own home.
Barbara’s academic background includes a Master of Arts in Education and Counseling and a Bachelor of Arts in Consumer Life Sciences from the University of Northern Iowa. She also has a Nurse Educator’s Certificate from University of Phoenix and training in medical administration and coding. She has had extensive teaching experience with adult online course work and continuing education.
Barbara is a volunteer for the local hospice and hospice respite care and practices Reiki with a community non-profit group. She enjoys online teaching because it reaches a diverse group of students, can provide a less hectic and more in-depth communication with her students than the traditional classroom, and allows her to teach with less stress for herself and her family. She enjoys native Floridian landscaping, growing orchids, her three geriatric pug dogs, piano, and beach walks with her husband during evening tide.
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Chassitty Loving BS, DPM, MBA
chassittyloving@achs.edu
Chassitty graduated with a BS in Biology from Valdosta State University in Valdosta, GA, a Doctorate in Podiatric Medicine from Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine from Cleveland, OH, and most recently a MBA in Healthcare Management from Jones International University in Centennial, CO. She is the founder and only employee of Professional Education Resources, LLC which offers continuing education conferences to healthcare professionals in the United States.
Chassitty has been teaching on the college level for over 9 years and has dedicated the majority of her time to educating her online students. She has taught an array of courses ranging from biological science courses to business management courses. Her passion for education is greatly influenced by her Mother and Father who encourages her daily to do her best to create a positive legacy by motivating her students to meet their goals. Chassitty considers herself a "life learner" and will always strive to learn something new. She lives in Georgia and enjoys nature, cruises, camping, and reading. Chassitty is honored to be one of the many fine faculty members of ACHS.
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Oleg Maksimov, BS, M.Ph., Ph.D.
olegmaksimov@achs.edu
Oleg Maksimov was born in Moscow, Russia, and moved to the United States in 1995. He received his Ph.D. in Chemistry from the City University of New York in February 2002. He then worked as a Postdoctoral Research Assistant in the Department of Physics and as a Research Associate in the Materials Research Institute at Pennsylvania State University. In addition, Dr. Maksimov holds an M. Ph. and a B.S. in Chemistry, both from the City University of New York.
Dr. Maksimov is an author and co-author of more than 60 articles published in peer-reviewed journals, an active member of the American Physical Society, and an editorial board member for Scientific Journals International. He serves as a reviewer for a number of scientific journals, including Applied Physics Letters, Journal of Vacuum Science and Technology, Materials Chemistry and Physics, and Thin Solid Films, and as a proposal reviewer for Research Foundation of City University of New York. In addition, he teaches General Chemistry for South University Online.
Dr. Maksimov has been happily married for 12 years and has a three-year-old daughter. When he has free time, he enjoys spending it with family. He currently resides in Massachusetts.
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Catrina Mianecki, BS, M.Ed, MS, LAc, Cert. Aroma.
catrinamianecki@achs.edu
Catrina has been in the Health and Wellness field for more than 20 years. She holds a Bachelor’s in Wellness Counseling from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, a Master’s in Adult Education from Colorado State University, and a Master’s in Oriental Medicine from Southwest Acupuncture College in Boulder, Colorado. She is a Bach Flower practitioner and has furthered her passion for holistic medicine by becoming a certified Aromatherapist from ACHS. Additionally, Catrina has studied iridology and western herbal medicine at the School of Natural Medicine in Colorado. She has also lived in India and studied Ayurvedic medicine, yoga, and meditation.
She has an extensive science background including graduate level studies in cell biology and is now synthesizing that information into a practical clinical application of mind-body healing at the cellular level.
Catrina has competed in both gymnastics and cross country running at the national collegiate level and has counseled elite athletes for better competitive performance through precision training and better nutrition. She has also been involved as a volunteer in Search and Rescue for over 5 years where she taught snow technology, avalanche safety, wilderness survival and back country snowshoeing.
In Catrina’s Acupuncture/Oriental Medicine practice she incorporates homeopathy, aromatherapy, phytotherapy and herbal medicine to facilitate the healing of her patients, guiding them to a state of more vibrant health. In Catrina’s early years it was her love for animals that awakened her to the effectiveness of energetic healing. With her four-legged friends she was able to perceive and move energy to clear blockages and facilitate their healing.
When not in the clinic, Catrina enjoys Indian cooking, running, hiking, being out in nature, teaching others about holistic medicine as well as furthering her own knowledge of the wide variety of healing modalities.
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Thomas Redenbaugh, DC, BS, BA
thomasredenbaugh@achs.edu
Dr. Redenbaugh received his doctorate at Parker College of Chiropractic in Dallas, one of the most challenging scientific based colleges in the world of chiropractic medicine. Dr. Redenbaugh completed his internship at the Parker College Chiropractic Wellness Clinic, graduating in 1997. There he worked firsthand with some of the nation's foremost physicians in the fields of radiology, orthopedics, neurology and rehabilitation. Dr. Redenbaugh is board certified by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners and the Texas Board of Chiropractic Examiners. Previously, Dr. Redenbaugh earned a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Arts from Excelsior College in 1983. The next year he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business from the University of Maryland. Dr. Redenbaugh graduated from the Naval War College in 1991 and retired from United States Navy after 22 years of dedicated service in 1993.
Dr. Redenbaugh was the Personnel Department Head at Fort Meade Maryland for the Naval Security Group Activity and managed the Training Division consisting of over 1500 personnel. He used that experience after graduating from Parker College of Chiropractic and began his professional teaching career at Parker working his way from assistant to course director and finally assumed the duties of the Department Chair of Chiropractic Philosophy and Technique. Dr. Redenbaugh also taught Pathophysiology for the Dallas College of Oriental Medicine and the Academy or Oriental Medicine at Austin.
Dr. Redenbaugh maintains an active family chiropractic practice where most of his patients call him “Dr. Tom”. His passion in practice is for his pediatric patients and he is a Fellow of the International Chiropractic Association well versed in the Webster Technique helping expectant mothers with breech presentations to achieve a normal birth. Dr. Redenbaugh is a Certified Animal Chiropractor (C.A.C.) by the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association and helps teach the Animal Chiropractic program at Parker College of Chiropractic. Dr. Redenbaugh is also a Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician (C.C.S.P. ®). Dr. Redenbaugh is an elite master of the Bio Energetic Synchronization Technique (B.E.S.T.) within the Morter Health System.
Dr. Redenbaugh met his wife Anota while teaching martial arts and they were married in the dojo more than 30 years ago. They have 5 children, 12 grandchildren, and 1 great grandchild. They love family get-togethers, travel, music, and TEACHING!
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Susan Roberts, BA, ND
susanroberts@achs.edu
Susan grew up outside Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and earned her BA in Urban Studies from the College of Wooster in 1978. Susan then moved to Portland, Oregon, and earned her degree in Naturopathic Medicine and Midwifery from the National College of Naturopathic Medicine in 1989. Currently, Susan operates a private practice in Portland that specializes in women's health, pediatrics, and midwifery. She also is the author of Naturopathic Pediatric Essentials and the soon-to-be-published Naturopathic Midwifery Essentials, and has a 19-year-old daughter.
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Robert Seidel, AAS, BS
Robert Seidel is a native New Yorker who, upon moving to Portland, Oregon in 1977, founded The Essential Oil Company, turning his love for nature and his natural ability to discern even the most complex essential oil constituents into a life long career. He attended NY State Ranger School at Wanakena, graduating with Certificate in Forest Technology. Paul Smiths College graduating with an AAS in Forestry.
Robert continued his studies gaining an AAS in Forestry and BS in Resources Management from SUNY College of Environmental Sciences and Forestry. Robert also graduated from Syracuse University with a BS in Forestry.
He is one of the world’s leading essential oil distillation and aromatherapy experts. He is in demand as a private consultant to manufacturers and essential oil producers because of his expertise in essential oil purity, quality, and blending experience. Robert has created blends for some of the leading perfume producers in the world.
Robert has worked closely with the local Native American Indians advising and helping them to utilize their natural resources; designing distillation equipment and helping them to produce a profit bearing essential oil yield in an environmentally friendly process.
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Dawn Strauss-Berta, BA, DC
dawnstraussberta@achs.edu
Dr. Berta is a graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic, which was founded by the discoverer of Chiropractic, Dr. Daniel Palmer. She earned her undergraduate degree in Music Education from Jersey City State College.
Dr. Berta and her family relocated to Gilbert, AZ in 2006 after starting and running Short Hills Chiropractic Center, LLC in Short Hills, NJ. Dr. Berta currently practices in Gilbert, Arizona at a wellness center, which includes Naturopathic Physicians, an herbalist, a massage therapist, and a hypnotherapist. In addition, Dr. Berta enjoys teaches Anatomy and Physiology at an online university.
Dr. Berta is thankful she had the opportunity to be involved with many volunteer positions such as a volunteer instructor for the Millburn, NJ chapter of the Red Cross, A coach with girls on the run Millburn, NJ; and as a wish granter with The Make A Wish Foundation of NJ.
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Lauren Shapiro, B.A., M.S., Instructor, ACHS Communications Manager
laurenshapiro@achs.edu
Originally from Irvine, California, Lauren joined the Australasian College in October 2008. She recently graduated from Portland State University with an MS in Writing, and a focus on editing and book
publishing.
Before moving to Oregon, Lauren completed her BA in English at the University of California Santa Cruz. In 2002, she moved to Eugene and spent four years working in Communications and Management for a fair trade imports company, which fostered a deep appreciation for community and healthful living. Now an ACHS team member, Lauren looks forward to expanding her holistic health education and work with the community.
In her free time, Lauren writes nonfiction, scavenges Portland's local, independent bookstores, and supports her family and friends in their diverse creative endeavors.
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Scott Stuart L.Ac., B.S., M.A.O.M.
scottstuart@achs.edu
Scott’s interest in plant medicine began in 1975, following a four-year tour of duty in the U.S. Navy as a photographer. While earning a B.S. in Journalism at the University of Oregon in Eugene, Scott began to explore his interest in herbs on his own. He learned from books, friends, and local classes how to make relaxing teas, soothing salves, oils for massage, and tinctures for common ailments. He has also created his own herb gardens for cooking, teas, and medicines. In his younger days he managed a natural foods co-op, where he taught classes in basic vegetarian cooking, diet and nutrition.
Scott has also studied Taiji Quan and Qigong for 12 years, and is certified to teach Soaring Crane, Essence, and Super Energy Qigong. His love of herbal medicine, Chinese martial arts, and Taoist philosophy called him to change careers from journalism and photography to Traditional Chinese Medicine. Scott has completed a four-year Master's program in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine at the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine in Portland, Oregon. He has skills in acupuncture, herbal medicine, Zen Shiatsu massage, flower essences, and Qigong.
He currently practices Oriental Medicine at Outside/In, a Portland social service agency. He is also working with a partnership to establish an integrative family health care clinic offering acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage, nutritional consultation, flower essences, Qigong classes, and counseling.
When he is not practicing Chinese medicine, Scott enjoys riding his bicycle, playing his guitar, cooking, and just hanging out with his 12-year-old son.
"I love the work I do and the relationships I establish through this medicine", says Scott, "and I am excited to share my knowledge and experiences with the students at the Australasian College of Health Sciences."
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Victoria Webb BA, MA
victoriawebb@achs.edu
Victoria A. Webb earned a BA in Humanities from Brigham Young University and an MA in Comparative Literature from the University of Utah. She also holds an MA in the Classical Tradition from the University of Reading, UK.
A native of Portland, Oregon, Victoria has taught English, literature, and humanities courses for more than five years for several colleges and universities in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Victoria recently returned to the Pacific Northwest and currently resides with her husband in Eugene, Oregon.
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Penny Wilkins., MBA, M.Ed., Cert. Aroma.
pennywilkins@achs.edu
Penny has been a manager in the business world for over twenty years, and an instructor and course developer in higher education since 1999. While the majority of her studies have been in leadership, management, and education (Doctorate of Leadership, Masters of Management, & Masters of Education in Online Teaching), she also has a certification in Aromatherapy from American College of Healthcare Sciences. While it might seem like an odd mix to have a business background along with aromatherapy, Penny's interest in holistic wellbeing is personal as well as professional. She not only uses a holistic approach in her personal life, but she has studied holistic wellbeing principles since 1995 through graduate and postgraduate work, and she teaches holistic based courses in various workplace and higher education settings.
Penny has a wide range of teaching experience from the workplace training level through doctoral level and has worked with a diverse mix of students. Like you, Penny has had an opportunity to experience online learning from a student perspective during her second masters program. She thoroughly enjoys the online education realm of learning and feels it brings opportunity for in-depth exploration and real world application that people do not always see in traditional education settings.
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Fionda N. Williams, MS, RN
fiondawilliams@achs.edu
Fionda Williams has a breadth of knowledge and experience in both clinical and academic settings. In her most recent position as an independent consultant, she designed project strategies and programming for occupational health and statewide chronic disease health initiatives in the state of Maryland. The project required working with web designers, video producers, state representatives, and national nonprofit agencies to translate medical data for the required applications.
Ms. Williams' professional experience includes deployments in the United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps as a Nurse Officer, serving as a Director of Nursing and Quality for home health agencies, and serving as a Regional Director of Nursing in the Maryland prison system. Ms. Williams has also held positions as a nurse case manager, school nurse, and urgent care nurse. Most recently, Ms. Williams relocated to Arizona to serve as a Public Health Nurse for the Hualapai Nation Native American reservation.
Academically, Ms. Williams has served as adjunct nursing faculty for several online and campus-based universities. She has been a guest lecturer and panelist, and has contributed to several publications. In her free time she practices yoga and enjoys outdoor activities.
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Frances Yahia, BS, MS, MPH
francesyahia@achs.edu
Frances Yahia is a Licensed Dietitian/Nutritionist, Mental Health Counselor, Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Health Education Specialist. She has been developing and teaching Nutrition, Psychology, Alternative Medicine and Health Science courses for over eight years at several colleges and universities across the nation. Frances teaches online and on-campus courses at both the graduate and undergraduate level.
She was previously Dean of Academics at Keiser Career College, where she won “Dean of the Year” and managed over 25 faculty and over 350 students in various Allied Health disciplines. She also held positions as Director of Retention and Director of Communications.
Frances attended FIU and received a BS in Journalism, an MS in Dietetics and Nutrition and a MPH in Health Promotion and Disease Prevention. She is currently completing her PhD at Barry University in Educational Leadership, emphasizing in Mental Health Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy.
Ms. Yahia previously owned a private practice treating clients for weight-loss, sports nutrition, geriatric nutrition and binge eating disorder. She has worked in hospital settings, research settings and in the Family Court System. She has years of research experience and has been invited to national scientific conferences to discuss her original research on weight-loss and diabetes.
Frances lives in sunny south Florida with her boyfriend, three children and Marshmallow, the rabbit!
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Dr. Matthew Zorn, ND
mattzorn@achs.edu
Dr. Zorn is a licensed Naturopathic Physician in the beautiful state of Oregon. He received his Bachelor of Science from the State University of New York at Purchase in 1998. He then went on to receive his Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine from the accredited naturopathic medicine program at the National College of Natural Medicine (NCNM) in 2002. By the end of his first year at NCNM, he knew that homeopathy was going to be a large part of his practice. He has maintained a private practice since his graduation, and over the last four years has been teaching classes on homeopathy to graduate students and colleagues.
Dr. Zorn has used homeopathy in his practice to help his patients with a wide range of maladies including eczema, asthma, anxiety, depression, migraine headaches, arthritis, and other imbalances.
As a perpetual student of medicine, healing, life, and human nature, Dr. Zorn strives to continue to broaden his understanding of homeopathy and this phenomenon we call the human experience.
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Administrative Staff:
Heather Baley, B.A., Cert. Aroma./Registrar
heatherbaley@achs.edu
Heather joined the Australasian College in late 2001. She has a background in
the hospitality industry, social services, and accounting. Heather graduated
from Michigan State University with a degree in Sociology and attended graduate
school at Central Michigan University.
Today, Heather has immersed herself in aromatherapy. She has completed the Certificate in Aromatherapy program and enjoys making blends
for herself and friends.
Heather enjoys spending time with her dog Maya, and remodeling her 1913 home.
She actively participates in many of the cultural programs offered by the local
community college in Portland.
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Kelly Baucum, B.A., Shipping & Receiving
Kelly Baucum was born in Canton, OH. She moved to Georgia at a young age and eventually got her BA in English at Georgia State University. After living in the heart of Atlanta for 6 years, Kelly moved to the progressive and nature-conscious city of Boulder, CO where she developed a healthy interest in natural healthcare. After 3 years of living in the mountains, Kelly decided to move closer to the ocean. After months of searching, Kelly finally found a job at ACHS where she continues to learn more about natural healthcare. Kelly is passionate about yoga, photography, travel and live music, among MANY other interests.
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Chris Fierro, Admissions Advisor
chrisfierro@achs.edu
Chris comes to ACHS after having the privilege of working with the world-renown Canyon Ranch Health Resort in Tucson, Arizona. He loves the Pacific-Northwest and is happy to call Portland home.
Chris has always had a passion for helping others. Upon graduation from high school in Tucson, Chris pursued a career as a full-time volunteer minister in Brooklyn, New York. After 15 years in the Big Apple, Chris moved back to the Southwest, attended college at University of Phoenix, and successfully completed his training in alternative health as a Massage Therapist with Apollo College. He looks forward to helping others pursue their educational goals with ACHS.
When not working, Chris enjoys time with friends, exercising, and discovering the beauty of Portland.
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Roberta Gamache, B.A., Assistant to the Registrar
robertagamache@achs.edu
Roberta Gamache is originally from Boston, MA, and has lived in several different cities throughout the U.S. She was educated in New York and Illinois, and has held various professional positions, including a tissue technician in pathology, quality control in the nuclear power industry, and office manager and dispatcher in the freight transportation industry. In addition to her current position as Assistant to the Registrar, Roberta also works as a flight attendant.
Roberta relocated to Portland, Oregon, from California in spring 2008 to be closer to her family. In her freetime, Roberta enjoys outdoor activities, including hiking and climbing.
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Kate Harmon, Director of Marketing
kateharmon@achs.edu
Kate first began working with the College in 1992, assisting with student services. She returned to the College in 2002 after living with her family in Japan for a year. Kate enjoys working with staff and students, and draws upon her undergraduate psychology studies, to help individuals excel in the workplace and successfully complete their programs.
She has an avid interest in natural health and uses natural remedies for herself and her family, including her dog Monty.
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Justin Janicki, BSE, M.S., Production Assistant
Originally from Buffalo, New York, Justin joined the Australasian College in January 2006. He is a graduate of the Oregon College of Oriental Medicine (OCOM) and is beginning his career as a Licensed Acupuncturist and Chinese Herbalist. Prior to attending OCOM, he earned his B.S.E. at SUNY Cortland with a focus in outdoor and environmental education and recreation.
As a part time staff member, he enjoys being surrounded with others professionals that share his enthusiasm towards natural medicine and the educational experience.
His free time is spent exploring the outdoors or routing for his hometown professional sports teams.
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Tracey Miller, B.S., Dean of Admissions
traceymiller@achs.edu
Tracey joined American College in 2002. She has always had a passion for natural health. Tracey graduated from the East West College of Healing Arts massage training program in 1997. She then spent several years living and working in Switzerland on an organic farm. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Western Governors University.
Tracey is a graduate of the ACHS Certificate in Aromatherapy program and serves on the Holistic Nutrition Credentialing Board of the National Association of Nutrition Professionals. She is also a member of the Western Association for College Admission Counseling and the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admission Officers (AACRAO). Tracey enjoys travel and has spent time in Thailand, Australia, and India. She also travels the West Coast and Canada with her competitive dragon boat team and serves on the Board for her paddling club, Wasabi Paddling Club.
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Joel Strimling, Dean of Student Services
joelstrimling@achs.edu
Joel Strimling joined the Australasian College in late 2005 with a diverse background and excited attitude. He brings with him over seven years of Marketing, Management, and Customer Service as well as a technical background. He has also had positions from wild land firefighting, to C.N.A., to technical management, and even a stint teaching martial arts. He is proud to have such a mix of experiences. Joel draws upon all of his experiences in assisting others using his varied path to develop his understanding of diversity.
Joel's natural health experiences come from nutritive competitive needs as well as outdoor interests and experiences. In his free time you might find Joel hiking or cooking, but most likely you will find him fishing one of his favorite rivers around the Northwest.
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Ephraim Ross, B.A., Instructional Designer and Technologist
ephraimross@achs.edu
Ephraim earned his B.A. in Cognitive Science and Linguistics from Pomona College in 2003. Since then he's pursued a career as a teacher and instigator of educational reform and mischief. He's most recently transitioned to a focus on Instructional Technology and e-Learning. He's been a passionate member of the reform school movement, working as part of the founding staffs of three new charter schools in San Diego, California.
Ephraim believes in transparency, authenticity, community, and play as key pieces to a meaningful and enriching education, and he could not be more excited about bringing his experience and talent to work for the American College of Healthcare Sciences.
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Amy Swinehart, B.A., Assistant to the Registrar
amyswinehart@achs.edu
Amy Swinehart earned a BA in Sociology from Washington State University in 1995, when she relocated to the Portland area.
Amy had previously worked for ACHS for about 10 years in both the Students Services and Admissions Departments, and most recently has worked as an at-home mom raising her two children.
In addition to her work with the College, Amy enjoys spending with her friends and family, and outdoor activities like golfing, playing tennis, and skiing.
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Cheri Yoshida, Customer Service Representative
I am a Portland, OR native. I enjoy living in Oregon. There is no other place I could call 'home.' Even though I grew up in Oregon, there is still so much that this lovely state has to offer.
I enjoy communicating with people and hearing what interests them. I am currently seeking a multi-media degree at PCC. Beyond that, I will also seek a veterinary degree. So, I guess you could say I enjoy learning! I love being around the essential oils. There is so much to learn from holistic medicine, aromatherapy and so much more.
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