Cohorts from Past Years

Fall 2022 Cohort

The Ph.D. in Health Sciences program welcomed its eighth cohort on August 12, 2022, at NIU’s Naperville campus.

Seven students, numerous CHHS faculty and administrators from across the university kicked off the event with a dinner. The guest speaker was Paul Priester, Ph.D., chair of the School of Interdisciplinary Health Professions.

Students from previous cohorts were excited to meet their fellow classmates at this in-person event. For some, it will be the last time they attend face-to-face events as they move forward in their program.

Liza Bashambu

Most recent degree: Master of Science in Physician Assistant

Current Professional position: Director of Didactic Education/Assistant Professor – South University Physician Assistant Program – Savannah, GA

Research goals: Examine the correlation between GRE scores of Physician Assistant (PA) students and subsequent success on the PA national board examination – Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE)

Faculty Advisor: Bette Montgomery, Ph.D.

Grace Wilson Biokoro

Most recent degree: Master of Public Health

Current professional position: Nurse and Public Health Educator

Research goals: I am interested in health education initiatives aimed at reducing maternal and child mortality and morbidity rates among women of reproductive age. I propose to do so by examining how the attitudes of healthcare practitioners toward lactation impact exclusive breastfeeding.

Faculty advisor: Julie Patterson, Ph.D.

Donald Grant

Most recent degree: Master of Jurisprudence (MJ) in Health Law from Loyola University Chicago

Current professional position: Independent Consultant 

Research goals: I am interested in conducting research pertaining to moral injury and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including policy, interventions, and outcomes to improve diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes.

I plan to consider these topics from two perspectives: the first perspective (e.g., veteran, first-responder, healthcare professional), and second perspective is their family/support system, whom are often adversely impacted health-wise…often exposed to stress, anxiety, and injury by proximity to their suffering loved one, but the wellness of family/support system can often be neglected in research, intervention, and funding.

Faculty advisor: Thomas Pavkov, Ph.D.

Stephanie Lipira

Most recent degree: Masters in Human Development and Family Sciences
Concentration in Child Development and Child Life

Current professional positions: Certified Child Life Specialist in a Pediatric Emergency Room
Instructor at Northern Illinois University in the HDFS Department

Research goals: How mental health has affected school age children during the COVID-19 pandemic. Other research interests include children's responses to hospitalization, family dynamics, play therapy, child abuse

Faculty advisor: Tom Pavkov, Ph.D.

Christina Muasher-Kerwin

Most recent degree: Doctorate in Physical Therapy and Master's in Healthcare Administration

Current professional position: Clinical Assistant Professor for the Doctor of Physical Therapy program at Northern Illinois University

Research goals: Determining the potential for functional improvements for individuals with brain cancer and understanding the primary barriers for caregivers caring for these individuals

Faculty advisor: M. Courtney Hughes, Ph.D.

Niaya McCleave

Most recent degree: Master of Science in Occupational Therapy, Howard University, 2016

Current professional position: Registered and Licensed Occupational Therapist

Research goals: Publish research focused on reducing the racial gap in mental health treatment and improving mental health quality of life amongst minority adolescents. 

Faculty advisor: Nahal Salimi, Ph.D.

Silvia Orsulic-Jeras

Most recent degree: M.A. Community Counseling

Current professional position: Research Associate, Center for Research and Education, Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging, Cleveland, OH

Research goals: Development, testing, implementation and translation of a variety of psychosocial interventions for persons living with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias (ADRD) and their family caregivers as well as for those managing multiple chronic health conditions. Other specialties include: counseling and strength-based methods, dyadic research, clinical readiness and intervention development and activities programming in both individual and group forums, specifically, music and arts-based interventions.

Faculty advisor: Jamie Mayer, Ph.D.

Casey Reed

Most recent degree: Doctor of Pharmacy and M.S. in Health Economics and Outcomes Research

Current professional position: National Payer Account Medical Lead - Outcomes Liaison

Research goals: Quality Improvement and Implementation Science Research

Faculty advisor: Jie Chen, Ph.D.

Elizabeth Williams

Most recent degree: Masters of Science in Occupational Therapy from Rush University

Current professional position: Occupational Therapist/Certified Hand Therapist/Resource Clinician at Loyola University Medical Center

Research goals: Health disparities and access to care for underprivileged, low SES, rural or non-native individuals. My goal is to identify barriers in education provided to patients regarding their prognosis, injury status, return to work, medical procedures completed, etc. By identifying both organizational (physician, medical staff, etc.) barriers as well as patient barriers (health literacy, language barriers, etc.), my research will aim to decrease the gap of understanding and affect positive change on the patient's outlook and understanding.

Faculty advisor: Shondra Clay, Ph.D.

The 2022 cohort at the August Ph.D. in Health Sciences event

Fall 2021 Cohort

The Ph.D. in Health Sciences program began its seventh cohort on August 13, 2021, at NIU's Naperville campus.

Fourteen students and several faculty from fields across the College of Health and Human Sciences kicked off the evening with a dinner.

In addition to the 2021 cohort, students from the 2020 cohort were excited to attend their first face-to-face event. For some of them, it will also be their last face-to-face event as they move ahead into their program.

2021 Student Biographies

Kelly Crisp

Most recent degree: Master of Arts, Audiology and Speech Language Pathology, The University of Memphis, Memphis TN (2006).

Current professional position: Program Coordinator/Research Speech Pathologist, Duke University, Durham NC; Adjunct Faculty, Maryville University, St. Louis, MO

Research goals: novel methods to teach and assess clinical reasoning for dysphagia evaluations; collaborative management of patients with head and neck cancer, lymphedema, and dysphagia by SLPs and certified lymphedema therapists

Faculty advisor: Dr. Beverly Henry

Makenna Green

Most recent degree: MA in Speech Language Pathology

Current professional position: Medical Speech Language Pathologist, subacute rehabilitation and skilled nursing

Research goals: Alternative and Augmentative therapy approaches for Dementia care

Faculty advisor: Dr. Jamie Mayer

Lei “Ray” Guo

Most recent degree: Master of Arts in Statistics; Master of Science in Biochemistry & Molecular Biology

Current professional position: Clinical Research Coordinator, VA St. Louis Health Care System

Research goals: Determinants in Health Behavior and Public Health Data Science

Faculty advisor: Dr. Courtney Hughes

Elizabeth Hamilton

Most Recent Degree: Master of Public Health

Current Professional Position: Director of Quality and Outcomes

Research Goals: My research interests are in health disparities and social determinants of health and its impact on primary care service delivery and leveraging technology to improve patient care

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Kathryn Mazurek

Kelly Jackson

Most recent degree: Master of Science in Speech Language Pathology

Current professional position: Clinical Lab Coordinator and Instructor, Samford University

Research goals: Use of simulation as a clinical education tool for speech-language pathology graduate students with a focus on inter-professional practice

Faculty advisor: Dr. Sherrill Morris

Dylan Lange

Most recent degree: Bachelor of Exercise Science; in pursuit Doctorate of Physical Therapy (graduation May 2022)

Current professional position: DPT student

Research goals: To investigate return to sport protocols and identify athletes at risk for injury or reinjury that participate in overhead sports

Faculty advisor: Dr. Michael Kushnick

Nicole McCann Davis

Most Recent Degree: Master of Science in Communications

Current Professional Position: AVP of Health Equity and Access

Research Goals: To publish research focused on disparities that impact patient and family end of life experiences

Faculty Advisor: Dr. Courtney Hughes

Jordan Mize

Most recent degree: Master of Science in Nutrition Diagnostics

Current professional position: Clinical Dietitian Preceptor/Faculty at Cox College

Research goals: investigate the role of Registered Dietitians in improving health outcomes in individuals with food insecurity

Faculty advisor: Dr. Henna Muzaffar

Deanne Moosman

Most recent degree: Master of Science in Biology

Current professional position: Instructor at the Virginia Military Institute

Research goals: I would like to investigate the willingness of populations to adopt food practices that improve human health and reduce environmental impact. Additionally, I would like to identify modes of educational outreach that are most likely to result in dietary changes that benefit individual health as well as the environment.

Faculty advisor: Dr. Melani Duffrin

Harold Nii-Aponsah

Most recent degree: Master of Public Health degree , Doctor of Dental Surgery

Current professional position: Adjunct Instructor, School of Health Studies – College of Health and Human Sciences, NIU

Research goals: I’m interested in the social determinants of health and promotion of health equity across diverse geographies and populations. It is my aim to work towards eliminating barriers to health and well-being that underserved populations disproportionately face through community-based research and low cost intervention clinical work.

Faculty advisor: Dr. Jeanne Isabel

Jessica O’Connor

Most recent degree: Master in Occupational Therapy

Current professional position: Academic Fieldwork Coordinator at Worcester State University, Occupational Therapy Consultant 

Research goals: To investigate the impact of adverse childhood experiences on motor and self-regulation skills and provide education on addressing developmental gaps in children exposed to childhood trauma

Faculty advisor:  Dr. Thomas W. Pavkov

Robyn Redline

Most recent degree:  Doctor of Physical Therapy

Current professional position:  Clinical Assistant Professor of Physical Therapy, Saint Francis University; Physical Therapist, Encompass Health Rehabilitation Hospital

Research goals:  Investigate the implications of psychological stress on physical rehabilitation and health status

Faculty advisor: Dr. Lynn Herrmann

Tammy Wynard

Most recent degree: Master of Science in Applied Health Sciences

Current professional position: Department Chair and Assistant Professor of Health Sciences, Director of the Trauma Informed Educational Practices for Children & Adolescents Graduate Certificate Program, North Central College 

Research goals: Investigating the Efficacy of Strategies used with Professionals in Adversity Education and Trauma Informed Practices Training

Faculty advisor: Dr. Melissa Clucas Walter

Ann Yaroch

Most recent degree: Master of Public Health (MPH)

Current professional position:  Adjunct Instructor in both the Health Sciences & the Biology Departments at Saginaw Valley State University

Research goals:  My research interests are focused on emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, as well as a subset of illnesses known as neglected parasitic infections, or NPIs. These infections are considered neglected because relatively little effort has been put forth to their monitoring, prevention or treatment.  To improve patient outcome, as well as reduce/eliminate these illnesses, four areas need to be addressed: 1) Increase awareness among physicians and the public; 2) Incorporate existing data to better understand the hazards; 3) Improve diagnostic testing; and 4) Advise on treatment.  My goal is to establish interdisciplinary curricula for Nursing, Medical Laboratory Science (MLS), Medical and MPH programs at the university-level.  Collaboration among health professionals is the key to positive patient outcomes and research has shown that effective interdisciplinary teams decrease costs, improve patient satisfaction and reduce morbidity/mortality through patient safety and error reduction. The Institute of Medicine (IOM) has reported that the best place to initiate transformation in healthcare is to start in the classroom, with the education of our healthcare students.

Faculty advisor:  Dr. Jeanne Isabel

The 2021 cohort at the August Ph.D. in Health Sciences event

Fall 2020 Cohort

The Ph.D. in Health Sciences program welcomed its sixth cohort in August 2020. Twelve students will be mentored by several faculty from fields across the College of Health and Human Sciences.

Due to the need to meet remotely, the Ph.D. in Health Sciences program began its cohort meeting remotely the week of Aug. 10, 2020.

During the evenings, students and staff met via Zoom to discuss topics including implications of COVID-19, diversity issues, research proposal writing, and planning for the dissertation defense and beyond.

The week was capped off with a back-to-school game night on Saturday evening after classes.

2020 Student Biographies

Samson Awoh

Most recent degree: Doctor of Occupational Therapy

Current professional position: Occupational Therapist

Research goals: Long-term care transition readiness

Faculty advisor: Jinsook Kim, Ph.D.

Marissa Beldon

Most recent degree(s): Master of Public Health

Current professional position: Research Faculty Member at University of Colorado, Boulder

Research goals: I hope to publish research related to socioeconomic and racial disparities in adverse health outcomes, and psychosocial stress in adverse health outcomes

Faculty advisor:hondra Clay, Ph.D.

Alice Brewer

Most recent degree(s): Master of Public Health

Current professional position: Director of Clinical Affairs

Research goals:Investigate the selection, implementation and assessment of patient safety intervention strategies and how different approaches impact patient outcomes.

Faculty advisor: M. Courtney Hughes, Ph.D.

Katie Coakley

Most recent degree(s): Master of Occupational Therapy

Current professional position: Senior Occupational Therapist at Loyola University Medical Center

Research goals:Identify allied health and rehabilitation needs of global healthcare and disaster response teams, improve services and access for adults with intellectual disabilities in the community, demonstrate importance and effectiveness of interdisciplinary collaboration in healthcare teams

Faculty advisor: Jeanne Isabel, Ph.D.

Jessica Conn

Most recent degree: Master of Science Speech Language Pathology

Current professional position: Clinical Instructor at Stephen F. Austin State University

Research goals: To investigate how the addition of tDCS affects Aphasia treatment.

Faculty advisor: Jamie Mayer, Ph.D.

Ronisha Edwards-Elliott

Most recent degree: Master of Social Work

Current professional position: Program Coordinator, Department of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Sickle Cell Clinic, University of Illinois at Chicago

Research goals: Quality of life and mental wellness for pediatric minority sickle cell patients

Faculty advisor: Kathryn Mazurek, Ph.D.

Kaneen Gomez-Hixson

Most recent degree: Master of Science in Nutrition

Current professional positions: Clinical Nutrition Faculty, University of Saint Joseph; Lead Sports Dietitian for the Athlete Nutrition Advising Program; Clinical Dietitian, Hospital of Central Connecticut

Research goals: To investigate the impact relative energy deficiency has on the health and well-being of competitive athletes

Faculty advisor: Michael Kushnick, Ph.D.

Kerri Lanum

Most recent degree: Graduate Certificate in Health Innovation and Implementation Science

Current professional position: Clinical Informatics Specialist at Northern Illinois University

Research goals: Specific Quality Interventions addressing Social Determinants of Health or Effectiveness of the Annual Wellness Exam

Faculty advisor: Courtney Hughes, Ph.D.

Lindsey Kojich

Most recent degree: Doctor of Physical Therapy

Current professional position: Assistant Professor, Assistant Director of Clinical Education

Research goals: Investigate the use of telehealth in physical therapy clinical education

Faculty advisor: Beverly W Henry, Ph.D.

Kheko Lewis

Most recent degree: Master of Science in Nutrition

Current professional position: Training and Policy Coordinator with the Illinois Hunger Coalition

Research goals: Community-based research on health disparities, with a focus on the effects of food insecurity on health outcomes

Faculty advisor: Flora Surjadi, Ph.D.

Brian Ring

Most recent degree: Master of Science in Respiratory Care

Current professional position: Clinical Assistant Professor, Dept. of Kinesiology; ECMO Specialist.

Research goals: To identify and quantify the impact of chronic pulmonary disease, drug burden, and healthcare access on one's mental health. Socioeconomic determinates of electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) practices.

Faculty advisor: Arlene Keddie, Ph.D.

Saara Rizzo

Most recent degree: Master of Science in Human Nutrition

Current professional position: Registered Dietitian in Long-Term Care

Research goals: To enhance person-centered care and communication through the exploration and analysis of contributing factors, with an emphasis on health professional education/training and clinical translation.

Faculty advisor: Beverly W Henry, Ph.D.

The 2020 cohort attends a virtual meeting via Zoom

Fall 2019 Cohort

The Ph.D. in Health Sciences program began its fifth cohort August 16, 2019, at NIU's Hoffman Estates campus.

Thirteen students and several faculty from fields across the College of Health and Human Sciences kicked off the evening with a dinner and a reception.

NIU Interim Associate Dean for Research and Resources Beverly Henry welcomed the students and Enid Montague, Ph.D. delivered the keynote address.

2019 Student Biographies

Neil Bahroos

Most recent degree(s): Master of Business Administration, Data Analytics

Current professional position: Vice President, Data Analytics and Chief Data Officer

Research goals: Health information technology and data analytics to assess health outcomes and augment decision-making

Faculty advisor: Derryl Block, Ph.D.

Scot Bauman

Most recent degree(s): Doctor of Physical Therapy

Current professional position: Physical Therapist

Research goals: Orthopedic knee conditions following both conservative and surgical management

Faculty advisor: MJ Blaschak, Ph.D.

Alexis Briley

Most recent degree(s): Master of Science, Nutrition Science

Current professional position: Renal dietitian

Research goals: Developing nutrition education for patients with chronic kidney disease

Faculty advisor: Melani Duffrin, Ph.D.

Stefanie Gidmark

Most recent degree(s): Master of Public Health

Current professional position: Health Research Science Specialist

Research goals: Develop mixed-methods program and policy evaluations in order to improve quality and access to care in underserved communities.

Faculty advisor: Ping Yao, Ph.D.

Amanda Grandinetti

Most recent degree(s): Master of Public Health

Current professional position: Senior Specialist, Performance Measure Development and Analysis

Research goals: Innovation, development, and implementation of patient-reported outcome measures, tools, and assessments into healthcare delivery.

Faculty advisors: Katherine Coulter, Ph.D.

Ronald Hazen

Most recent degree(s): Master of Public Health, Epidemiology

Current professional position: Senior Analyst in Health Analytics and Research and Reporting

Research goals: Factors associated with medication adherence and persistence for specialty medication

Faculty advisor: Kathryn Mazurek, Ph.D.

Rebecca Jarzynski

Most recent degree(s): Master of Science, Communication Disorders

Current professional position: Clinical Instructor and Residential Grad Placement Coordinator

Research goals: To investigate the efficacy of early intervention services provided to children within culturally and linguistically diverse family systems

Faculty advisor: Sherry Fang , Ph.D.

Simi Joseph

Most recent degree(s): Doctor of Nursing Practice

Current professional position: Director of Research & Clinical Services and Gastroenterology Nurse Practitioner. Adjunct Faculty

Research goals: Investigate fatty pancreas in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver population as a risk for subclinical chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer

Faculty advisor: Masih Shokrani, Ph.D.

Joshua Patrick

Most recent degree(s): Master of Public Safety Leadership and Administration, Mobile Integrated Healthcare concentration

Current professional position: Board Certified Community Paramedic

Research goals: Advance sepsis care treatments in the prehospital setting impact on a patient's length of stay, time in the intensive care unit, and total cost of care

Faculty advisor: Katherine Coulter, Ph.D.

Jacques Polk

Most recent degree(s): Master of Health Administration

Current professional position: Senior Patient Access Coordinator

Research goals: Community-based services aimed at engaging both persons with mental illness and substance use disorder to cost-effectively reduce crime and lower recidivism rates

Faculty advisor: Paul Priester, Ph.D.

Elizabeth Tenison

Most recent degree(s): Master of Science, Sciences Nutrition

Current professional position: Coordinator, Nutrition Programs and Director

Research goals: Use of ergogenic aids to enhance athletic performance in athletes; use of vitamins to enhance athletic performance in athletes; sports nutrition education in high school or college athletes to enhance athletic performance; dietary supplements in frail older adults; and, nutrition-focused physical examination in athletes to identify micronutrient deficiencies and in frail older adults to identify micronutrient deficiencies

Faculty advisor: Judith Lukaszuk, Ph.D.

Mitchell Voss

Most recent degree(s): Master of Business Administration

Current professional position: Occupational Therapist

Research goals: Readiness to return to prior level of functioning

Faculty advisor: Daniel Boutin, Ph.D.

The 2019 cohort at the August Ph.D. in Health Sciences event

Fall 2018 Cohort

The Ph.D. in Health Sciences program began its fourth cohort on August 17, 2018, at NIU's Hoffman Estates campus.

Fourteen students and several faculty from fields across the College of Health and Human Sciences kicked off the evening with a dinner and a reception.

NIU Vice President for Research and Innovation Partnerships, Gerald Blazey, welcomed the students and Mark Kuczewski delivered the evening's keynote address.

2018 Student Biographies

Hannah Barden

Most recent degree(s): Master's in Bioethics and Health Policy

Current professional position: Neuromodulation Clinical Specialist for Boston Scientific

Research goals: Effects of stimulation on chronic pain and addiction patients

Faculty advisor: Matt Sprong, Ph.D.

Neil Benedict

Most recent degree(s): M.S. in analytics, University of Chicago

Current professional position: Risk Consultant

Research goals: Military Readiness

Faculty advisor: Kathryn Mazurek, Ph.D.

Dustin Cox

Most recent degree(s): Doctor of Physical Therapy

Current professional position: Master of Science in Occupational Therapy Associate Professor at Cox College in Springfield, MO

Research goals: Investigating how a combination of evidence-based practice interventions such as cognitive strategies, behavior strategies, and education would impact patients' perceived pain compared to traditional medical interventions of pain management.

Faculty advisor: Daniel Boutin, Ph.D.

Lee Dal Pra

Most recent degree(s): Master of Arts, University of Chicago

Current professional position: Director of Child Programs at Compass Health Center & Adjunct Lecturer at the University of Chicago

Research goals: I am interested in the relationship between compassion fatigue and physical health for providers working with children and adolescents endorsing a history of trauma.

Faculty advisor: Thomas Pavkov, Ph.D.

Amber Davis

Most recent degree(s): Master of Science- Nursing Education, Lewis University

Current professional position: RN-B.S. Nursing Degree-Completion Coordinator

Research goals: Evaluate the impact that professional care giver role-strain has on academic success and create innovative ways to alleviate barriers health-care providers face when pursuing advanced education

Faculty advisors: Maryann Abendroth, Ph.D.

Jerian Dixon-Evans

Most recent degree(s): Master of Science Health Administration, University of St. Francis

Current professional position: Research Administrator- Clinical Trials Unit

Research goals: To develop strategies to increase minority enrollment in clinical trials and investigate the health disparities amongst African American women who are diagnosed with Breast Cancer.

Faculty advisor: Laura Beamer, Ph.D.

Eileen Lindemann

Most recent degree(s): Master of Science Applied Nutrition, The Sage Graduate School, Troy, NY

Current professional position: Adjunct Instructor, Nutrition Sciences Department, The Sage Colleges, Troy, NY

Research goals: Communication between healthcare providers, people with serious illnesses, and their loved ones from the patient's perspective. What are the patient's perceived communication needs and what barriers and facilitators to communication exist? My goal is to use this research to develop educational and supportive tools for patients in order to facilitate their conversations with their healthcare providers and loved ones.

Faculty advisor: Maryann Abendroth, Ph.D.

Lisa Moloney

Most recent degree(s): Master of Science-Nutrition

Current professional position: Nutrition Researcher

Research goals: Evaluate methods to promote behavior change, specifically uptake and implementation of evidence-based practice by health care professionals. Determine the appropriate study design, interventions, and reliable measure for behavior change. Furthermore, determine if implementation of evidence-based practice recommendations results in improved health outcomes.

Faculty advisor: Beverly Henry, Ph.D.

Hira Paulin

Most recent degree(s): Master of Education in Rehabilitation Counseling with a concentration in Psychiatric Rehabilitation and Substance Abuse Counseling from Springfield College, Springfield MA

Current professional position: Adjunct Faculty/National Science Foundation Grant Specialist, National Technical Institute for the Deaf at Rochester Institute of Technology

Research goals: Investigate the effects of hearing loss on the veteran transition process into the civilian workforce, educational environments and society. Analyze the implications for enhanced interdisciplinary support of veterans with hearing loss through inter-agency partnerships as well as within single institutions.

Faculty advisor: Daniel Boutin, Ph.D.

Marisol Perez

Most recent degree(s): Master of Health Science in Communication Disorders from Governors State University

Current professional position: Speech-Language Pathologist

Research goals: To explore the bilingual parents' perception of their children's speech-language therapy program.

Faculty advisor: Danai Fannin

Roy Valenzuela

Most recent degree(s): M.S in Gerontology from Kansas State University

Current professional position: Medical Technician for U.S. Military Entrance Processing Command

Research goals: Further investigate the effectiveness of a community-based comprehensive fitness program on older adults living along the U.S/ Mexico border who are at a higher risk for developing Type 2 Diabetes, COPD, and Obesity.

Faculty advisor: Arlene Keddie, Ph.D.

Catherina Walker

Most recent degree(s): Master of Public Health with a concentration in Disease Prevention and Health Promotion

Current professional position: Active Duty US Public Health Service Nurse, HRSA, Regional Supervisor

Research goals: Evaluating non-diet approaches to reduce obesity in low-income pediatric populations that support positive self-esteem and lifestyle changes.

Faculty advisor: Josephine Umoren, Ph.D.

Jennifer Waters

Ph.D. in fall 2022

Most recent degree(s): Master of Science, Clinical Nutrition

Current professional position: Manager, Clinical Nutrition at Rush Copley Medical Center in Aurora, IL

Research goals: Curricular innovations to develop or maintain an effective workforce.

Faculty advisor: Amanda McCarthy, Ph.D.

Jamie Way

Most recent degree(s): Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Bradley University

Current professional position: Assistant Professor at Bradley University

Research goals: We have a pro bono clinic on our campus that I would like to conduct research looking at patient functional measurements before and after the 10-week program as well as looking at depression and fatigue of the caregiver and does that improves as the patient improves.

Faculty advisor: MJ Blaschak, Ph.D.

fall-2018-cohort.jpg

The 2018 cohort at the August Ph.D. in Health Sciences event

Fall 2017 Cohort

The Ph.D. in Health Sciences program began its third cohort on August 18, 2017, at NIU's Hoffman Estates campus.

Nine students and several faculty from fields across the College of Health and Human Sciences kicked off the evening with a dinner and a reception.

NIU Dean of Graduate Studies, Brad Bond, welcomed the students and Michael O’Rourke delivered the evening's keynote address.

2017 Student Biographies

Hannah Baker

Ph.D. in spring 2022

Most recent degree(s): Doctor of Physical Therapy

Current professional position: Staff Physical Therapist-Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Research goals: Enhancing the interdisciplinary team within a skilled nursing facility setting; optimize student and clinician knowledge of physical therapy treatment strategies for persons with mental health disorders.

Faculty advisor: Jennifer Gray, Ph.D.

Crystal Carel

Most recent degree(s): Master of Public Health, The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center

Current professional position: Systems Analyst (Programmer/Quality Consultant)

Research goals: Investigating outcomes related to quality among supportive and palliative care and non-palliative care clinicians and interactions with seriously ill patients.

Faculty advisor: Jinsook Kim, Ph.D.

Shubhagata Das

Ph.D. in fall 2022

Most recent degree(s): Master of Science-Profession Program in Biotechnology, Texas A&M University

Current professional position: Scientific Affairs Manager, Luminex Corporation

Research goals: Evaluating the role of biostatistics in clinical trials design and analysis, particularly understanding how to optimally design a clinical study based on available data, which would reduce risks, and improve the quality of results and submissions. Investigate how to determine the suitable variables to be measured based on the study objectives and to learn efficient ways to interpret and analyze data. Additionally, exploring how early, accurate, and rapid diagnosis, along with an efficient healthcare management system, can lead to high-quality, cost-effective patient care; how transforming complex healthcare and diagnostic systems to simpler user-friendly platforms can eliminate diagnostic and human errors thus providing timely results and improving the overall clinical workflow.

Faculty advisor: Ping Yao, Ph.D.

Deauna Froneberger

Most recent degree(s): Master of Science-Mental Health Counseling (Rehabilitation Counseling) & Post Masters Certificate in Rehabilitation Counseling and Behavioral Addictions

Current professional position: Vocational expert and rehabilitation counselor

Research goals: Prepare students and clinicians in the delivery of health care via Telehealth through the development of interpersonal skills and use of technology, developing useful options to enhance the quality of life and efficacy of chronic disease management and public and private sector rehabilitation counseling service delivery.

Faculty advisor: Matthew Sprong

Donna Kruse

Most recent degree(s): Master of Science-Nursing, Northern Illinois University

Current professional position: Registered Nurse (Stroke Coordinator and Magnet Coordinator), Advocate Sherman Hospital, Elgin, Illinois.

Research goals: Study patients who suffer a stroke but delay in seeking medical treatment (is the delay due to lack of knowledge, denial, the severity of symptoms, etc.).

Faculty advisors: Kari Hickey

Olivia Lemberger

Ph.D. in spring 2022

Most recent degree(s): Master of Science- Nursing

Current professional position: Clinical Educator- Rush Copley Hospital

Research goals: Health care innovation-interdisciplinary use of simulation.

Faculty advisor: Jeanette Rossetti

Audra Moore

Most recent degree(s): Master of Occupational Therapy

Current professional position: Occupational Therapy Supervisor, Wood County Educational Service Center, Bowling Green, Ohio.

Research goals: Meeting the needs of clients with social and health disparities with specific interest on the family dynamics related to the opiate crisis as well as youth mental health. To utilize developing research to advance access to community health programs by establishing a sample model using telehealth practices in conjunction with face to face interaction with clients.

Faculty advisor: Thomas Pavkov

Nathan Taylor

Most recent degree(s): Master of Public Health/Master of Science-dual degree with a concentration in Health Information Systems

Current professional position: Clinical Informatics Consultant

Research goals: Using healthcare data and technology to find the best practices and techniques that drive high-quality care at low cost within chronic diseases.

Faculty advisor: James Ciesla

Paris Willis

Most recent degree(s): Master of Science-Health Education & Promotion, with an emphasis in Community Health, University of Cincinnati.

Current professional position: Quality Improvement Facilitator, Telligen.

Research goals: Analyzing approaches to health disparities in unserved and underserved communities, specifically exploring low levels of access and/or use of mental health services, including community stigma.

Faculty advisor: Kathleen Musker

The 2017 cohort at the August Ph.D. in Health Sciences event

Fall 2016 Cohort

The Ph.D. in Health Sciences program began its second cohort on August 12, 2016, at NIU's Hoffman Estates campus.  

Fourteen students and faculty from fields across the College of Health and Human Sciences kicked off the evening with a dinner and a reception.  

NIU Vice President of Outreach, Engagement and Regional Development, Anne Kaplan, welcomed the students and John A. Vozenilek III delivered the evening's keynote address "Interprofessional Collaboration: Taking Academic Programs Across Departmental and Clinical Boundaries".

2016 Student Biographies

Shovonna Burcham

Most recent degree(s): Master in Health Sciences from Indiana State University

Current professional position: Supervisor, Diagnostic Development Services

Research goals: To further understand the impact of health disparities for women

Faculty advisor: Derryl Block

Michele Crase

Ph.D. in spring 2022

Most recent degree(s): MPH from Northern Illinois University

Current professional position: NIU Laboratory Safety Manager

Research goals: Understanding the motivation factors in personal laboratory safety

Faculty advisor: Jeanne Isabel

Pamela Durr

Most recent degree(s): Transitional Doctorate of Physical Therapy from St. Ambrose University

Current professional position: Assistant Professor at Bradley University, Peoria, IL

Research goals: Effects of learning cultural sensitivity in health science students through the use of short-term mission trips (or through clinical exposure in a pro bono clinic).

Faculty advisor: King Chung

Celeste Hendricks

Most recent degree(s): Transitional Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the College of Saint Scholastica

Current professional position: Academic Clinical Instructor at University of Saint Mary Doctor of Physical Therapy Program; also PRN Clinical Physical Therapist

Research goals: Ascertaining characteristics of adherence of wellness recommendations by the involvement of multi-disciplinary collaboration, including a dietician, physical therapist, and physician in obesity reduction.

Faculty advisor: Beverly Henry

Cindy Lund

Ph.D. in fall 2021

Most recent degree(s): M.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders from University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee

Current professional position: Assistant Professor, Department of Speech-Language Pathology at Concordia University Wisconsin

Research goals: Develop a plan of research in pediatric feeding and swallowing. I am especially interested in how caregiver responses to infant cues affects growth and development.

Faculty advisors: Allison Gladfelter and Janet Olson

Kim Milano

Ph.D. in fall 2019

Most recent degree(s): M.S. in Dietetics and Nutrition from University of Kansas

Current professional position: Pediatric Dietitian Consultant

Research goals: To study food selectivity in young children - characteristics associated with selectivity and/or interventions to increase acceptance of foods.

Faculty advisor: Priyanka Ghosh Roy

Ryan Orrison

Most recent degree(s): M.S. in Physical Therapy from Andrews University

Current professional position: Assistant Professor and Foundations Sciences Coordinator, Andrews University, Department of Physical Therapy.

Research goals: My research goals, as they apply to the NIU PhD in Health Sciences, are focused on strengthening the skills necessary to combine a strong research agenda with my current teaching responsibilities. By taking advantage of the curriculum at NIU I expect to improve my understanding of research design, data analysis, and funding. Through an interprofessional approach I will develop a plan to carry out research in one of my areas of interest that includes but is not limited to the following: use of prediction rules to improve clinical decision making; the role of the physical therapist in preventative healthcare interventions; nonsurgical interventions for femoroacetabular impingement; clinical outcomes in a bundled payment system; the use of comprehensive exams as an indicator for success on national board exams; and improving student learning in the foundation sciences with the use of case scenarios. In deciding on my dissertation topic the goal will be to develop original research that on dissemination will contribute to improved patient care, healthcare outcomes and or student learning.

Faculty advisor: Christina Odeh

Tan Pham

Most recent degree(s): M.S. in Clinical and Population Health from UMASS Medical School, MPH in Epidemiology from University of Connecticut

Current professional position: Biostatistician/Psychometrician in patient-centered outcomes research at Mapi

Research goals: To further develop my analytic thinking and skillset to further improve my career in pharmaceutical consulting

Faculty advisor: Ping Yao

Sara Samuel

Ph.D. in spring 2020

Most recent degree(s): Pharm.D. from University of Illinois at Chicago, MBA from DePaul University

Current professional position: Clinical Pharmacist

Research goals: The use of health information technology to improve the quality of patient care.

Faculty advisor: Jaeyong Bae

Katherine Schultz

Most recent degree(s): M.S. in Higher Education Administration and Policy from Northwestern University

Current professional position: Assistant Director, Doctor of Speech-Language Pathology and MS in Speech, Language, and Learning Programs at Northwestern University

Research goals: Exploring issues in curriculum design, teaching methodology, and learning assessment in medical and health professions education.

Faculty advisor: Beverly Henry

Amanda Spraggs-Hughes

Most recent degree(s): Master of Arts in Historial Studies from Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville

Current professional position: Clinical Research Coordinator in Orthopaedic Trauma, Washington University School of Medicine

Research goals: I plan to investigate the patient rehabilitation process post-traumatic orthopedic injury

Faculty advisor: Daniel Boutin

Richard Sroka

Most recent degree(s): Master of Physical Therapy from Midwestern University

Current professional position: Physical Therapist

Research goals: 1) Ethnic and Gender Disparities in manual physical therapy 2) Effects of joint mobilization on muscle activation

Faculty advisor: Prisca Collins

Corey Ungaro

Ph.D. in fall 2021

Most recent degree(s): M.S. Biotechnology and Chemistry

Current professional position: R&D Scientist in charge of Biochemistry Department

Research goals: Ascertain the potential for behavior change using activity/sleep trackers

Faculty advisor: Christina Odeh

The 2016 cohort at the August Ph.D. in Health Sciences event

Fall 2015 Cohort

The inaugural Ph.D. in Health Sciences cohort program began on August 14, 2015, at NIU's Hoffman Estates campus.

Fifteen students and faculty from across the College of Health and Human Sciences kicked off the evening with a panel discussion followed by a dinner and reception.

CHHS Dean Derryl Block welcomed the students and David Stone delivered the evening's keynote address.

"I feel experimental research is essential in its own right. However, as much as I fully support the detailed technical work of these scientists, my pursuit of a Ph.D. in basic science was twice thwarted because I could not see the forest through the trees. I was not convinced that my basic science research at the bench on one tiny protein would have any impact on the quality of life for cancer or malaria sufferers. Consequently, as health scientists, we are charged with a different, yet equally significant calling. In order to improve health outcomes, we need to take each of those paradigms we learned in Biology, Psychology, Statistics, Microbiology, and Social Behavior and bring them and their representatives together to the same research table. Only then can we truly begin to see each tree in thecontext of the forest and not be confined by our individual paradigms" by Dee Dee Downie, 2015 Ph.D. in Health Sciences cohort member

2015 Student Biographies

Leah Ames

Ph.D. in summer 2020

Most recent degree(s): M.S. MLS from Michigan State University

Current professional position: Adjunct Professor and Medical Laboratory Scientist

Research goals: Focusing on the different branches of patient care to develop a collaborative educational environment and to promote inter-professional exchanges and development in healthcare facilities.

Faculty advisor: Beverly Henry

Erick Amick

Most recent degree(s): M.P.H. and M.A. (African Studies) from Indiana University

Current professional position: Program Manager, Helping Babies Survive Initiative American Academy of Pediatrics

Research goals: Exploring health disparities, health programs in low-resource environments, evaluating program outcomes, and the role public-private collaborations play as innovators in health services.

Faculty advisor: James Ciesla

Brian Anderson

Ph.D. in spring 2019

Most recent degree(s): M.S. Advanced Clinical Practice from National University of Health Sciences, MPH from Benedictine University and Doctor of Chiropractic from National University of Health Sciences

Current professional position: Assistant Professor and Attending Clinician, National University of Health Sciences, Lombard, IL

Research goals: Clinical application of low back pain classification systems.

Faculty advisor: Mary Jo Blaschak

Dee Dee Downie

Most recent degree(s): M.P.H. from University of Pittsburgh

Current professional position: CDC Public Health Advisor, USPHS, Madison, WI

Research goals: Investigating community resilience in mitigating international disasters.

Faculty advisor: Lin Shi

Lisa Gagliano

Most recent degree(s): M.A. Com.D. from Northern Illinois University

Current professional position: Forensic Rehabilitation Counselor

Research goals: Exploring the development of disability identity and the factors that affect psychosocial adaptation to disability, especially in persons living with acquired or non-apparent disabilities.

Faculty advisor: Greg Long

Amy Gootee-Ash

Ph.D. in spring 2019

Most recent degree(s): Masters of Health Science from James Madison University

Current professional position: Visiting Instructor at Delaware State University Dept. of Public and Allied Health

Research goals: Examine the relationship in meal consumption and food grazing on blood glucose levels of Type II Diabetics

Faculty advisor: Lynn Herrmann

Ann Guernon

Ph.D. in spring 2020

Most recent degree(s): M.S. S.L.P. from Northeastern University

Current professional position: Clinical Research Coordinator

Research goals: Exploring 3 distinct but potentially related areas including: neuromodulation, measurement and management of chronic needs for brain injury survivors and informal caregivers/family.

Faculty advisor: Christina Papadimitriou

Hana Hinkle

Ph.D. in fall 2018

Most recent degree(s): Ph.D. from NIU

Current professional position: Associate Director, National Center for Rural Health Professions, UIC-Rockford College of Medicine

Research goals: Examining inter-professional workforce needs, through a public health systems context, in addressing Hispanic health disparities.

Faculty advisor: Derryl Block

Steven Hinojosa

Ph.D. in fall 2018

Most recent degree(s): Ph.D., NIU

Current professional position: Lead Epidemiologist, Hidalgo County

Research goals: Examining the varying socioeconomic factors and their contribution to a community’s health, such as in vaccine acceptance and host-pathogen interactions of infectious diseases.

Faculty advisor: Jinsook Kim

Debra Kimberlin

Ph.D. in summer 2019

Most recent degree(s): M.S. N.D. from Eastern Illinois University

Current professional position: Assistant Professor, Department of Family & Consumer Sciences, Olivet Nazarene University

Research goals: Further exploring the relationship between posttraumatic stress disorder and eating patterns among veterans.

Faculty advisor: Beverly Henry

Brandon Male

Ph.D. in fall 2019

Most recent degree(s): M.S.Ed. from Northern Illinois University

Current professional position: Instructor of Biology, Aurora University, Head Weightlifting Coach Moose L Up Strength Gym.

Research goals: Further investigating the role nutrition plays in the performance of competitive athletes in power based events.

Faculty advisor: Judith Lukaszuk

Felicia Mobley

Ph.D. in fall 2019

Most recent degree(s): M.H.A. from Washington University in St. Louis

Current professional position: Manager for Physician Assistant Program at Emory University, School of Medicine

Research goals: Analyzing the effectiveness of current approaches to address health disparities from an educational, economic, and social justice perspective.

Faculty advisor: Prisca Collins

Quentin Moore

Ph.D. in spring 2020

Most recent degree(s): M.P.H. from University of Toledo and Bowling Green State University

Current professional position: Chair, Bachelor of Science in Medical Imaging Program at Mercy College of Ohio

Research goals: Seeking to intertwine public health principles into medical imaging practice. The intended focus includes management of radiation concerns and screening procedures and application of quality improvement methods.

Faculty advisor: Sarah Geiger

Pamela Taylor

Ph.D. in fall 2019

Most recent degree(s): Master of Science in Nursing from Northern Illinois University as a Family Nurse Practitioner (2002) and a Post Masters Certificate in Nursing Education (2009)

Current professional position: Interim Director of Nursing Graduate Studies at NIU and a Family Nurse Practitioner at the Dyson Wellness Center at North Central College

Research goals: Investigating adolescent and young adult care and underserved communities. Finding what evidence-based programs and education would have the greatest impact to influence this group on making lifestyle changes.

Faculty advisor: Donna Plonczynski

The 2015 cohort at the August Ph.D. in Health Sciences event

Contact Us

Ph.D. in Health Sciences
Wirtz Hall 323
815-753-5108
815-753-6169 (fax)
phdhs@niu.edu

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