Widener University, Chester, Pennsylvania Degrees: BA, Psychology
Minors in Biology, Physical Science
Honors Degree in General Education

Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Degree: DO

Internship
Rotating Internship - Delaware County Community Hospital/Crozier Chester Medical Center/Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine

Residency (1998-2002)
OB/GYN Residency Training - UMDNJ/Cooper Hospital/University Medical Center, Camden, New Jersey

Board Certifications
American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Memberships and Societies
American Osteopathic
Association American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
American Medical Association

Hospital Affiliations
Chandler Regional Hospital
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center

Licensure
State of Arizona

Languages Spoken
English

Prior to that, I practiced in Philadelphia for one and a half years. I became interested in OB/GYN during medical school due to the ability to play a role in women's health over the course of their lives. It is wonderful to care for women through all phases of her life including adolescence, childbirth and menopause. I enjoy traveling and spending time with my husband and two children.

Rutger's University
Degree: BA, Biology and Psychology

University of Medicine and Dentistry, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School
Degree: MD

Residency and Internship (1998-2002)
Cooper Hospital University Medical Center, New Jersey

Board Certifications
American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Memberships and Societies
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

Hospital Affiliations
Chandler Regional Hospital
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center

Licensure
State of Arizona

Languages Spoken
English
Spanish

From that moment I knew I wanted to be a physician, taking care of women and participating in the miracle of human life. Being a women's healthcare provider is both an honor and a privilege which I greatly enjoy. Our getting to know each other is an important part of providing your complete obstetrical and gynecological care. My getting to know you goes well beyond learning your health history to truly understanding your feelings and concerns as we discuss very sensitive, personal issues. Your getting to know me will help you feel comfortable sharing your concerns. I want you to be confident in knowing that you will receive personalized care from someone you can trust. I enjoy traveling, dining, and spending time with my three children. I appreciate people from various cultures and backgrounds. I love reading a good mystery novel and I especially love to cook, but I don't really like having to clean up afterward.

Case Western Reserve University
Degree: BA, Cum Laude

Residency and Internship (1997-2001)
Aultman Hospital – Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine Affiliated
Canton, Ohio

Licensure
American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology - Board Certified

Hospital Affiliations
Banner Gateway Medical Center
Chandler Regional Hospital
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center

Languages Spoken
English

I was born and raised in Cleveland, OH where hospitals and healthcare were influential entities in part due to the Cleveland Clinic Foundation and my alma mater, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine. My mother gets the credit for my choosing obstetrics and gynecology. Prior to her immigration to the U.S., my mother was a midwife attending deliveries in various districts of central England. Her stories about the deliveries she attended, and the joy shared with families she delivered, biased me towards obstetrics. My eldest sister was often hospitalized due to sickle cell anemia. I watched and often followed the physicians who cared for her as they worked to find the “trigger” for her crises. I was impressed by their compassion, intelligence and great skill as they treated my sister and always returned her home safe and “healed”. Becoming a mother at the age of 17 helped me clarify my career aspirations, accept delayed gratification, and stay motivated when rough times challenged my resolve. I enjoy spending time with my family, volunteering with my sorority, and travelling.

Clark University
Degree: BA, Biology, 1979

Internship and Residency (1985-1989)
Metro Health Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio
Case Western Reserve University

Licensure
State of Arizona

Board Certifications
Board Certified: American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Languages Spoken
English

Hospital Affiliations
Chandler Regional Hospital
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center

Areas of Special Interest
Infertility, Menopausal Issues including the use of Bioidentical hormones

from before birth into the "golden years". I am excited to be in Arizona after a productive career in Rhode Island which spanned from 1993 to 2011. My professional interests include obstetrical and gynecological care with special emphasis in the perimenopausal and menopausal years. I also have a special interest in pediatric and adolescent gynecology. I enjoy working with women to find the right hormonal balance with both traditional and bioidentical hormones.

My surgical skills include vaginal and laparoscopic surgical techniques that promote the rapid return to normal activities. I also am skilled in the latest in-office surgical offerings including Essure permanent sterilization and cryo uterine ablations. I also offer laser surgery for treatment of certain gynecological conditions.

I have previously served as an Assistant Clinical Professor of the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University where I taught residents. I have also participated in Medical Missions to Honduras as part of Brown University's Global Health Initiative. I am very proud of the clinic I helped to start in Providence, Rhode Island and am always thrilled to see some of those patients here in Arizona!

I am the parent of two college-aged students and care for my 90+ year old live-in mother. I love to travel, especially in the Southwest. In my free time, I enjoy yoga, boating, and reading (preferably with a glass of pinot noir).

Arizona State University, Tempe
Degree: BS Engineering, Biomedical Engineering

Residency (2009-2012)
Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center, Phoenix

Licensure
State of Arizona

Board Certifications
Board Certified: American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Languages Spoken
English

Hospital Affiliations
Chandler Regional Hospital
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center

I needed to work with people. It is a gift to earn the trust of a young teen in discussing preventive healthcare, to join in the celebration of life through the process of childbirth, and to maintain a relationship with a woman into the transition of menopause. I have special interests in promotion of healthy breast feeding, as well as minimally invasive procedures. I've also volunteered abroad in Mexico, Thailand, and Nepal in medical mission work with various organizations. My roots in Arizona are deep-- I attended Deer Valley High School, Arizona State, and the University of Arizona. My husband and young son are a great support and we are excited to be a part of this vibrant East Valley community. In my free-time I love photography, hockey, and hiking.

Trinity University, San Antonio, TX
Degree: BA Spanish

Residency (2011-2015)
University of Oklahoma, Tulsa School of Community Medicine, Tulsa, OK

Licensure
State of Arizona

State of Oklahoma

Board Certifications
Board Certified: American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Languages Spoken
English
Spanish

Hospital Affiliations
Banner Gateway Medical Center

I had wonderful mentors in high school and college and an incredibly supportive family that helped me to achieve my dreams and go to medical school. I liked most of my clinical rotations in medical school but none of them really amazed me until I did my Ob/Gyn rotation. It was a surprise to nobody but me, as my mother reminded me that I had voraciously read all of her books on pregnancy and childbirth when I was younger. I feel it is such an honor and a privilege to care for women in some of the happiest, saddest and most intense moments of their lives. I enjoy all aspects of women’s health, especially adolescent care, prenatal care and have particular interests in laparoscopic and vaginal surgery. I grew up in New Mexico, and my education took me to Texas, back to New Mexico then to Oklahoma where I received a great residency education and met the man of my dreams. While in residency, I served as the American Congress of Obstetrics and Gynecology Junior Fellow Chair for Oklahoma, administrative chief resident and received the AAGL award for excellence in laparoscopic surgery. We chose to move to Arizona because of the beautiful weather and scenery and I wanted to be closer to my family who live in the Phoenix area. My interests include cooking, running, being crafty and enjoying the outdoors.

Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ
Degree: BS Agribusiness

Residency (2011-2015)
University of Oklahoma, Tulsa School of Community Medicine, Tulsa, OK

Licensure
State of Arizona

State of Oklahoma

Board Certifications
Board Certified: American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Languages Spoken
English

Hospital Affiliations
Chandler Regional Hospital
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center

When I was 13, I started as a junior volunteer for a local hospital on the labor and delivery unit. The four year experience sparked my initial interest in medicine and Women’s healthcare; however, it was the first day of obstetrics rotation in medical school, which solidified my career path. I could not wait to deliver babies and be in the operating room.

I was born and raised in Denver, CO. I moved to the East Valley with my family several years ago and graduated from Gilbert High School. I went onto Arizona State University for undergraduate and University of Arizona for medical. I completed training at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa for residency in OB/Gyn. My special interests are comprehensive care of adolescents through beyond menopause. One of the biggest perks of my job is being part of families' best days in life, the birth of their children. My true passion is establishing long term relationships with my patients throughout their lives. My husband and I are excited to return to the valley with our daughter to be close to our family. We love trying new restaurants, cooking, gardening and catching up with friends.

University of Missouri, Columbia, MO
Degree: BS Biology

Degree: BA English

Residency (2007-2011)
St. Louis University, St. Louis, MO

Licensure
State of Arizona

State of Missouri

Board Certifications
Board Certified: American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Languages Spoken
English

Hospital Affiliations
Banner Gateway Medical Center

As I grew, I became fascinated with human anatomy and had the opportunity to observe many surgical procedures throughout my high school and college years. Those experiences gave me the passion and drive to become a physician. Upon witnessing a variety of women's health care during medical school, I found my niche. I had the unique opportunity to complete a diverse array of medical rotations during my training, traveling from coast to coast and learning from experts at institutions such as Beth Israel in New York, University of Chicago, Washington University in St. Louis, and Stanford University. I was blessed to utilize that knowledge to assist rural people in remote Zambia, where I spent two months on a medical mission. Later I returned stateside to begin OBGYN residency. At that time, I completed extra training in laparoscopic and vaginal surgery, as well as being honored to train as a visiting Fellow at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York. Upon graduation, I spent several years caring for the under-served population of urban St. Louis. During my adventures thus far, I have learned that there is nothing more rewarding than developing a relationship with a patient and giving assistance over the years. I enjoy providing excellent care to women in all phases of life, whether it be adolescent & contraceptive care, delivery of a child (or children!), or medical/surgical treatment of other gynecologic issues. I specialize in minimally invasive techniques and aim to promote whole-body balance. I always look forward to meeting new people and establishing a strong group of patients who are ready to work with me on improving their health. After enjoying the wonderful people (and weather!) in the Phoenix area during my medical school years, I felt drawn to settle down in the area. My husband and I have recently relocated to Queen Creek with our new baby, and are excited to make the Valley our home. During my free moments I enjoy jogging, trying out new foodie restaurants, knitting/crocheting, and spending time with my family.

Chadron State College
Degree: Bachelor of Science

Graduated Cum Laude

Residency (2013-2017)
University of Oklahoma, Omaha, NE
OB/GYN Residency Program

Licensure
State of Arizona

Board Certifications
Board Eligible - American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Languages Spoken
English

Hospital Affiliations
Banner Gateway Medical Center
Chandler Regional Hospital
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center

I found a love for surgery after spending time in the operating room during medical school and from then on, I knew that obstetrics and gynecology would allow me to balance both the clinical and surgical aspects of medicine. It is a privilege to be able to care for women through various stages of life, whether that is routine visits, pregnancy, or surgical treatments of gynecologic conditions. I was born and raised in Nebraska and attended a small state college in Chadron, Nebraska where I earned a degree in Human Biology. I then moved to Omaha, Nebraska where I pursued a degree in medicine at the University of Nebraska Medical Center. After medical school, I completed my residency at the University of Oklahoma at Tulsa before moving to Gilbert, Arizona to begin practice at Valley Women for Women. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our twins, Everly and Rowan. Together we particularly enjoy travelling, running, kayaking, hiking, and golfing. We also enjoy trying new food, whether that is cooking at home or finding new restaurants.

The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ
Degree: BS Molecular and Cellular Biology

Residency (2010-2014)
Akron General Medical Center, Akron, OH

Licensure
State of Arizona

Board Certifications
Board Eligible: American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Languages Spoken
English

Hospital Affiliations
Chandler Regional Hospital
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center

During these past few years, I have had the honor of developing relationships with some amazing patients. This is one of my favorite aspects of being a physician. Early in my career, I have learned that being a doctor is so much more than making a diagnosis and treating illness. I have discovered that I can also help people through education, by providing support, and by empowering women with the tools and knowledge to take charge of their health. I am excited to serve the women of my home state and look forward to forming incredible bonds with my patients! Outside of work, my family is my everything. I have two incredibly sweet, funny, and passionate children with my husband, and a wonderfully affectionate pup.

University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ
Degree: BS, Biosystems Engineering, Cum Laude

Residency (2014-2018)
Morehouse School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
OB/GYN Residency

Licensure
State of Arizona

Board Certifications
Board Eligible: American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Languages Spoken
English

Hospital Affiliations
Chandler Regional Hospital
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center

I knew from a young age that caring for others was what I wanted to do, but it wasn’t until my third year of medical school that I knew that being an OBGYN was my calling in life. I love the ability to care for a woman throughout her lifetime and the opportunity to build long lasting relationships with my patients. I am honored to serve as an advocate for all women while also realizing the importance of treating each patient as an individual in order to optimize her care. Patient education is paramount to my practice and I am dedicated to providing excellent care to each and every patient. I am a native of Nigeria, but was raised in Phoenix from a very young age. I attended the University of Arizona for both undergrad and medical school. I completed my residency at Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta, GA and I am excited to bring a little southern charm back to the valley of the sun. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, discovering new music, cooking, traveling, and exercising.

Arizona State University
Degree: BS, Life Sciences, Magna Cum Laude

Residency (2014-2018)
Paul L. Foster School of Medicine, Texas Tech University, El Paso, Texas
OB/GYN Residency

Licensure
State of Arizona

Board Certifications
Board Eligible: American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Languages Spoken
English

Hospital Affiliations
Chandler Regional Hospital
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center

My warmest memories are when I see my patients with their families outside of the hospital and we can marvel at how their family and health has changed over time. Almost an Arizona native, I moved to the valley as a young child, and completed the majority of my education where I call home. I attended Thunderbird High School where I graduated with a certification as a nursing assistant. I continued to explore healthcare at Arizona State University where I received a Bachelor of Science in Life Sciences. I earned my medical degree from Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine. I briefly left Arizona to complete my OB/GYN residency at Texas Tech University Health Science Center in El Paso Texas. While in Texas I was awarded twice as “Outstanding Teaching Resident” and was recognized for outstanding performance in service and dedication by University Medical Center. My research regarding contraception for adolescents was presented at the national conference for the North American Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology. In addition to adolescent health, I am also passionate about preventative health, contraception, education, and the variety of gynecologic conditions women will experience throughout their lives. I will be committed to your individual health and together embracing a journey towards wellness. When I am not working I stay busy caring for my family and our young son.

Coming Soon
Degree: Coming Soon

Coming Soon
Degree: Coming Soon

Residency (2015-2019)
Coming Soon

Licensure
State of Arizona

Board Certifications
Board Certified: American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Languages Spoken
English

Hospital Affiliations
Banner Gateway Medical Center
Chandler Regional Medical Center
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center

I indeed consider it a privilege to help ensure healthy outcomes for women and their families.
In my life outside of medicine, I am a complete sports junkie. My favorite sport is football. I was born and raised in Augusta, GA, so of course, I believe the SEC is the best college football conference in the land. I am a huge University of Georgia and Atlanta Falcons fan. If I wasn't a physician, my dream job would be a NFL referee. I also have an interest in health and fitness and am a National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) Certified Personal Trainer. In my free time, I enjoy listening to music, reading, and spending time with my husband and our beagle Dexter.

Coming Soon
Degree: Coming Soon

Coming Soon
Degree: Coming Soon

Residency (2015-2019)
Coming Soon

Licensure
State of Arizona

Board Certifications
Board Eligible: American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Languages Spoken
English

Hospital Affiliations
Chandler Regional Hospital
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center

It is important to me that women have a safe place to feel comfortable asking hard questions and be given evidence-based answers so that they have a full understanding of their treatment. My education first began as I completed my Bachelors of Science degree in Biology from Saint Ambrose University in Davenport, Iowa, then moved to Arizona to complete my Masters Degree in Biomedical Science at Midwestern University with the ultimate goal to continue into clinical medicine. My medical degree was completed at Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine where I then moved across the country to complete OB/GYN residency at Inspira Health Network in Vineland, New Jersey. There I worked at a community hospital providing and educating an under-privileged population about the importance of their healthcare and how to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
I am an Illinois native that fell in love with the desert and I always knew that moving back to Arizona to practice medicine where I was educated, was something I wanted to pursue. I am excited to bring the knowledge and experiences I’ve gained back to the Southeast Valley and I look forward to building a relationship with my patients and following their healthcare journey no matter where that journey may start. In my spare time, I enjoy hiking the mountains with my husband and our lovable dog, exercising, finding the best local food spots all while taking in the sunshine.

Coming Soon
Degree: Coming Soon

Coming Soon
Degree: Coming Soon

Residency (2015-2019)
Coming Soon

Licensure
State of Arizona

Board Certifications
Board Eligible: American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Languages Spoken
English

Hospital Affiliations
Chandler Regional Hospital
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center

Coming Soon

Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH
Degree: Master of Science in Nursing

University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ
Degree: Bachelor of Arts, Pre-Medicine; Magna Cum Laude

Professional Organizations
American College of Nurse-Midwives

Licensure

• State of Arizona

Hospital Affiliations

• Chandler Regional Hospital
• Mercy Gilbert Medical Center

Languages Spoken

• English
• Spanish

I was blessed with knowing my life’s calling at a young age. Presently, I have had the honor of delivering over 1400 babies. I have assisted physicians with over 400 cesarean births. Helping mothers and their families through the childbearing process is one of my greatest accomplishments. As a CNM, I also help women of all ages through their gynecological health within the clinical setting. I am skilled in women’s care including; yearly exams, family planning, contraception, STD identification and treatment, and menopausal care. Before becoming a CNM, I was a RN in labor and delivery, newborn and pediatric intensive care and the emergency departments for 23 years. I am an Arizona native and I also lived in Washington State. I have two adult children and many grandchildren. I have traveled to Jordon, Egypt, Israel, Greece, Cyprus, Germany, Austria, England, France, Italy, Venice, Norway, Mexico, Nicaragua and several US states including Alaska and Hawaii. I am bilingual speaking Spanish. I look forward to being a part of providing excellent maternity care to women and families who choose Valley Women for Women.

University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH
Degree: Master of Science in Nursing

Grand Canyon University, Phoenix, AZ
Degree: Bachelor of Science, Nursing

Professional Organizations
American College of Nurse-Midwives

Licensure

• State of Arizona

Hospital Affiliations

• Chandler Regional Hospital
• Mercy Gilbert Medical Center

Languages Spoken

• English

I soon realized how much I loved being an advocate and assistant to my patients as they welcomed a new life into their families. Although I tried many different areas of nursing, I always came back to my love, Labor and Delivery. As I planned to send my oldest child off to college, I decided it was time for me to follow my dreams too, and I went back to school to become a Certified Nurse Midwife. I am excited to help women make educated choices about their healthcare, including family planning, well women care, and birth experience. I became a nurse midwife because I believe every woman should be educated and given choices in her healthcare and birth experience. This is a time of vulnerability and great trust for a woman and she needs and advocate and healthcare provider to support her and help her on this journey. I enjoy my time at home with my 3 teenage children, and am kept busy with the life that comes as mother of three busy kids.

Frontier Nursing University, Hyden, KY
Degree: Master of Science Nursing - Nurse Midwifery

Grand Canyon University, Phoenix, AZ
Degree: Bachelor of Science, Nursing

Professional Organizations
American College of Nurse-Midwives

Licensure

• State of Arizona

Hospital Affiliations

• Chandler Regional Hospital
• Mercy Gilbert Medical Center

Languages Spoken

• English

I wanted to learn more, I loved the midwifery model and I knew I wanted to be a CNM. My journey to midwifery has taken some twists and turns. Since the early nineties I have had the great privilege of caring for women in the East Valley as an R.N. in labor and delivery. I learned much over those years. My passion for women’s health grew and birth, still, never ceases to amaze me. I am excited to be a midwife with Valley Women for Women, I am passionate about educating and building relationships with our clients, providing current evidence based care and supporting women in making informed choices about their reproductive health. I was an Army brat, born in Panama and the youngest of six girls. I was primarily raised in Tempe and currently I reside in Gilbert. My husband and I have been married since 1983. We have a grown daughter, a wonderful son in law and three grandchildren, and we also have two teen age boys that attend Campo Verde High School and keep us very busy. We are blessed to have a large extended family that we love spending time with, when possible we like to travel and in my rare alone time, I love reading.

Frontier Nursing University, Hyden, KY
Degree: Master of Science Nursing - Nurse Midwifery

Seattle Pacific University, Seattle, WA
Degree: Bachelor of Science, Nursing, Cum Laude

Professional Organizations

• American Midwifery Certification Board (AMCB)
• International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners

Memberships and Certifications

• Amercan College of Nurse-Midwives
• Basic Life Support (BLS)
• Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP)
• Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS)
• Advanced Life Support in Obstetrics (ALSO)

Licensure

• State of Arizona

Hospital Affiliations

• Chandler Regional Hospital
• Mercy Gilbert Medical Center

Languages Spoken

• English

Luckily, I was accepted into the local community college's Health Occupation Program giving high school students, like me, the opportunity to explore the many options available within the medical community. The moment I witnessed my first birth I knew what direction I wanted to go. While I have experience in all areas of maternal-child nursing, becoming a Nurse-Midwife was my true calling. I am committed to providing family centered, evidence-based care that is respectful of women’s informed choices. I love to share my passion with others and have had the pleasure of educating both expecting parents and inspiring midwifery students. In Okinawa, Japan, I ran the Perinatal Education Program at the U.S. Naval Hospital and volunteered as a Red Cross Nurse-Midwife in support of our overseas military families. As an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), I am especially passionate about breastfeeding and truly enjoy helping moms and babies learn the art of breastfeeding. It is my privilege to help the families I serve have a healthy pregnancy, and a memorable and empowering birth experience. I was born and raised in Portland, Oregon. I am a military spouse of many years and a proud mother of three amazing children…sometimes my husband counts as number four. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family and am unabashedly their biggest fan. When not cheering my children on at their various sporting events, I enjoy gardening, yoga, stand-up paddleboard, snowboarding, and wakeboarding. I also have developed a love of traveling, learning about different cultures and sampling the local cuisine.

Washtenaw Community College
Certified Nursing Assistant

St. Joseph Mercy Hospital
Patient Care Technician Certification

Central Michigan University
Bachelor of Science Degrees in Child Development and Biology

Central Michical University
Master of Science Physician Assistant

Preceptorship
Hurley Medical Center, Flint, MI

Memberships and Societies
American Academy of Physician Assistants

Licensure/Certification
State of Arizona
National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA)

Languages Spoken
English

While doing college prep courses in high school, I learned of the Physician Assistant role and was very intrigued. This would give me the autonomy and challenge I was looking for, along with the freedom and flexibility to one day raise my own family. I attended Central Michigan University (Go Chips!) for my Bachelors and Masters degrees. The Masters program included 15 months of didactic and 12 months of clinical rotations. Initially going into this program, my ambition was towards pediatrics, but after the women’s health courses and my rotation within an excellent OB/GYN practice, I believed that I had found my niche. My career goal is to provide the best compassionate care for my patients and their families as possible. I live in Gilbert with my husband, our 2 girls, a German Shepherd, a kitty, and a betta fish. We stay very busy with our girls activities including soccer, dance, swim, horseback riding, and gymnastics. When I get a chance I enjoy working out, running, reading, and of course shopping!

California State University, Bakersfield
Degree: Bachelor's Degree in Nursing

Samuel Merritt University
Degree: Master’s Degree in Nursing/ Women's Healthcare Nurse Practitioner

Certification
RN Certification, 1989-current
NP Certification, 1996-current

Licensure
State of Arizona

Languages Spoken
English

I knew from that day, that my calling was in the art of nursing and I have been practicing in women's health since becoming a nurse in 1986. I have been actively involved in community and nursing education, research and continue to support nursing education teaching through the University of Phoenix in the College of Nursing. I am a California native and recently relocated to Gilbert in 2008, where I now reside with my husband Paul. We have three wonderful children and they are indeed the joy of our lives. My hobbies are music, playing the piano, NASCAR and Porsche, swimming and everything Titanic; the ship, not the movie. I love watching my son play football and daughter play volleyball and yes, I am one of those mothers yelling from the stands. I am very privileged to be working with such a wonderful group of talented women here at Valley Women for Women and look forward to caring for and serving the women of this community.

University of Pennsylvania
Degree or Certification: Health Care of Women Nurse Practitioner Certification, 1997

University of Pennsylvania
Degree or Certification: Master of Science in Nursing, 1989

York College of Pennsylvania
Degree or Certification: Bachelor of Science in Nursing, 1982

Licensure/Certification
State of Arizona
Nurse Practitioner, Certification, Current
Board Certified, National Certification Corporation, Current
Registered Nurse, Current

Languages Spoken
English

I loved babysitting when I was young and thought I could merge the care of babies with a professional career which I succeeded in doing – I have worked in term, transitional and intensive care nurseries. I then wanted to broaden my scope of practice so I returned to school for Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner. I enjoy providing care to women through their reproductive years and past menopause with a special interest in vulvovaginal diseases. I enjoying antiquing, relaxing with a good book, and spending time with my chocolate lab, Hops.

University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
Degree or Certification: Bachelor of Science, Nursing, 1993

Asbury College, Wilmore, KY
Degree or Certification: Bachelor of Arts, Health Science, 1992

Licensure/Certification
State of Arizona
Nurse Practitioner, Certification, 1997 - Current
Board Certified, National Certification Corporation, 2000 - Current
Registered Nurse, Current

Languages Spoken
English, Spanish

My dad spent many years in Central America practicing as a medical doctor and surgeon. I always enjoyed watching my dad perform surgery, as well as see the gratification that he received from helping others in need. After starting my college career with a plan to pursue accounting and business, I soon discovered that this track was not for me and decided to go into nursing. After working as an RN in Scottsdale I chose to further my education and begin my career in women's health as a nurse practitioner. I enjoy caring for women throughout the lifespan but especially appreciate the opportunity to journey alongside women as they experience pregnancy and the miracle of a new life. In my spare time, I love hiking, road trips and watching movies with my husband of 20 years and our 2 boys.

Nebraska Methodist College of Allied and Health, Omaha, NE
Degree or Certification: Bachelor of Science in Nursing, 1996

Licensure/Certification
State of Iowa
Registered Nurse, 1996 - Current
State of Arizona
Nurse Practitioner, Certification, 2015 - Current
Board Certified, National Certification Corporation, 2015 - Current
Registered Nurse, Current

Languages Spoken
English

I consider it an honor and a privilege. Hence, I have been a labor and delivery nurse for 20 years, and I have loved every single second of it. However, as I have matured, I recognize the desire to develop long-term relationships with my patients, which was the impetus to earn my Women's Health Nurse Practitioner degree. I’m looking forward to taking care of women through their life span, especially adolescent and prenatal care, as well as the important work of educating and promoting preventive care to women of all ages.

My husband and I were both born and raised in the Midwest, and we are excited about our decision to relocate to Arizona with our three wonderful children. I enjoy cooking, entertaining and spending time with family and friends. I also enjoy boating, skiing, and hiking. Fun fact about me is that numerous people have often told me I remind them of the actress/comedian Kristen Wiig. I'm very committed and eager to be a part of Valley Women for Women.

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire, WI
Degree or Certification: Bachelor of Science in Nursing, 2012

Licensure/Certification
State of Arizona
Registered Nurse, Current
State of Arizona
Nurse Practitioner, Certification, Current
Board Certified, National Certification Corporation, Current

Languages Spoken
English

My passion for women's health flourished during college while studying abroad in Ireland focusing on women's health issues. That experience empowered me to find a career path that complemented this passion. Working closely with outstanding nurse practitioners in long-term care made me realize early on that being a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner was a perfect fit for me, so I went back to school and completed my doctorate at ASU. I love working with women across the lifespan, and I especially enjoy working with teens and young adult women focusing on education and preventative health care during the early reproductive years. I was raised in Minnesota, but have not missed the winters since moving to Arizona in 2013. My husband and I love to travel together back to Minneapolis, around the country, and internationally. In my free time, I enjoy going to the gym, hiking, cooking, reading, watching movies, and socializing with friends. I am very excited and proud to be part of the team at Valley Women for Women.

Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ
Degree or Certification: Bachelor of Science, Nursing, 2001

Licensure/Certification
State of Arizona-2001-Current

Nurse Practitioner, Certification, 2008-Current

Board Certified, National Certification Corporation, 2008-Current

Registered Nurse, 2001-Current

Languages Spoken
English

I began my career in women's health in 2001. I always knew that I would obtain my master's and become a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner. I have enjoyed working with women from different cultures and especially the Hispanic population here in Arizona. After working with new mothers and babies in Couplet Care, I decided I would like to have longer more established relationships with my patients. I feel my personal experiences as a women's health patient drive me to provide the highest quality of individualize healthcare to women and their families. I am a native Arizonan and completed both my bachelor's and master's degrees at ASU. I live in Gilbert with my husband and two children. I enjoy hiking, quilting, playing piano/singing and spending time with our rescue dogs.

Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ
Degree or Certification: Bachelor of Science, Nursing, 2007

Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ
Degree or Certification: Bachelor of Arts, Psychology and Visual Arts; Minor in Biology, 2002

Licensure/Certification
State of Arizona
ACLS
ASCCP
AANP-FNP

Languages Spoken
English

I grew up in New Jersey and moved to the valley 14 years ago. I have been honored to work in Labor and Delivery at Banner Desert for almost 10 years bringing lots of new babies into the world, while keeping some of my patients pregnant. I am a family nurse practitioner with a focus on internal medicine and women’s health that allows me to deliver care to my patients across their lifespan. I knew that I wanted to help others for as long as I can remember, and feel blessed that I can make a difference everyday. As a provider, I have enjoyed providing my patients with the knowledge and encouragement they need to make choices for better health. My areas of focus are vaginal health, STI treatment and education, diagnosis and management of cervical diseases, menopause education and management, preventative health services, contraception over the lifespan and obstetrical care. I enjoy hiking and camping in the beautiful landscapes of the West with my husband and young son and our two dogs.

Brigham Young University, Provo
Degree: Bachelor's Degree in Nursing, Minor: Business Management

Certifications
FNP, AANP, BLS

Licensure
State of Arizona

Languages Spoken
English

Upon graduation from Highland High School, I was lucky to play on BYU's Women's Basketball team, which advanced to the NCAA Sweet Sixteen during our 2001-2002 season. I began my nursing career in 2005 as an Operating room nurse and truly loved every second of the four years that I practiced in this fast-paced environment. In 2010, I received my Master's degree and certificate to practice as a Family Nurse Practitioner. I was living in Hawaii at the time of graduation and practiced as an NP for the next four and a half years in women's health on the beautiful island of Oahu. I truly love the people and diversity of Hawaii! In 2013 I moved back to the Mainland, namely AZ, and after one year in family practice, I knew my heart was in still in women's health, so I transitioned back into the speciality, which is where I have been practicing comfortably for the past four years. In my spare time (if that's even a thing) I enjoy spending time with my three kids and husband, playing the piano, traveling and of course getting back on the court. I look forward to serving the women of Arizona for many years to come!

Arizona State University, Tempe
Degree: Bachelor's of Science Degree in Nursing

Certifications
FNP, RN, AANP-BC

Licensure
State of Arizona

Languages Spoken
English

I feel fortunate to spend my career partnering with other women to empower, educate, and find the healthiest version of you possible. Born and raised in the Midwest (MN/WI), I relocated to Arizona in 2004 for schooling…and to stay warm! My career in nursing provided me a wide variety of experiences, caring for people of all ages and in all stages of their life. After working in several different areas of nursing, I landed a job on a high-risk obstetric unit at a large central Phoenix hospital. It was during these years I found my true passion; caring for women. Proudly following in my Mom’s footsteps, I dove headfirst into graduate school to become a Nurse Practitioner. As I navigated through school, it became clear to me that I wanted to focus my NP career on serving women. As a woman, I can appreciate the complexity of our bodies. I believe that optimal health is achieved by looking at the whole person; examining the physical, psychological, spiritual, and social factors that affect well-being. I am a firm believer that preserving health is easier than curing disease! I value the unique background of each woman and I truly enjoy getting to know my patients and their families. I have a special interest in sexual health, LGBTQ health, breastfeeding education, and postpartum wellbeing. While I am a Minnesota girl at heart, my husband and I agree that we couldn’t survive another snowy winter! We love living in Gilbert and try to get outside with our wild toddler as much as possible. You can usually find us at the local park chasing around a tiny human with beautiful red hair! I also enjoy a good Netflix show, kid-free Target shopping, and reading on my Kindle.

Hofstra University, Hempstead, NY
Degree or Certification: Bachelor of Science Exercise Science, Minor in Psychology, May 1995

Licensure/Certification
State of Arizona
National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants with Special Recognition in Surgery, Certification, 1999 - Current

Memberships and Societies
American Academy of Physician Assistants

Arizona State Association of Physician Assistants

Association of Physician Assistants in Obstetrics and Gynecology

Languages Spoken
English

I received my undergraduate degree in Exercise Science from Hofstra University in Hempstead, NY in 1995 and my Physician Assistant degree from MCP Hahnemann University in Philadelphia, PA in 1999. I have worked in many areas of medicine, including family practice, urgent care, surgery, urology and ob/gyn. Women's healthcare is my passion and I most enjoy educating my patients, answering their questions and addressing their concerns. When I'm not working, I enjoy officiating women's lacrosse, running, reading, traveling, and spending time with my family, friends and two adorable cats.

University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
Degree: Bachelor's Degree in Nursing

Certifications
RN, BLS, ACLS

Licensure
State of Arizona

Languages Spoken
English

My first labor and delivery rotation in nursing school sparked my interest in women’s health, and after working in many different areas of nursing I knew I wanted to work with women. I went back to school and received my doctorate in nursing as a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner from ASU. I love working with women during all phases of their life, and especially love being able to provide them with the education and tools needed to care for their health throughout their life. I am originally from Utah but moved to the east valley in 2012 with my husband and oldest son. We now have 3 children and can’t imagine raising our family anywhere else. Most of my free time is spent with my family swimming, going to the zoo, riding bikes, reading books, or playing at the park. I am thrilled to join the wonderful team of providers here at Valley Women for Women.

Arizona State University, Tempe
Degree: Bachelor's Degree in Nursing

Everest College, Phoenix
Degree: Associate's Degree in Nursing

Certifications
RN, BLS, ACLS, TNCC

Licensure
State of Arizona

Languages Spoken
English

I have many childhood memories of playing with my toy stethoscope, watching birth shows on TV, providing prenatal care to my stuffed animals, and decorating my dolls with bandaids and red Sharpie chicken pox. I eventually decided I’d become a nurse because of the opportunity to build relationships with patients and the many career paths available.
I became an RN in 2010 and spent the following nine years working in hospice, primary care, and emergency medicine. In 2017, I decided to pursue my MSN with Frontier Nursing University and become a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner. I am so excited to join Valley Women for Women and provide compassionate, evidence based, holistic care to women throughout their lifespan.
I was born and raised in Arizona and have finally grown to love it here. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my partner and our two cats, cooking, trying new restaurants, exploring Arizona, traveling, and reading.