• Instructor of Physical Therapy
  • Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Geriatrics
  • Certified Exercise Expert in the Aging Adult
Saint Gianna School of Health Sciences

About Me

I am a 2003 graduate of the University of Mary with a Master's in Physical Therapy. I have furthered my education obtaining a certified competency in vestibular rehabilitation in 2013 from the APTA and Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. In 2017, I became a certified exercise expert for the aging adult through the APTA and Academy of Geriatrics. I advanced this knowledge and in 2017 became a board-certified clinical specialist in geriatrics through the APTA. As a physical therapist, I have experience providing care to patients in outpatient neurological rehabilitation, outpatient orthopedics, and hold a special interest in geriatrics, vestibular rehabilitation, and concussion management. I am married to Chris and am the mother of Brayden and Paige. I enjoy traveling with my family, reading, fitness, and attending all activities for my children. Favorite quote: "Everything is possible to the extent that you are certain." (D. Gikandi)

Why I’m At Mary

When I walked across the stage for graduation in 2003 I felt and knew I was a better person than when I first arrived at the University of Mary. I truly felt that my heart and mind was transformed through the program of physical therapy, the sense of community, and all the opportunities that were made available to me.

Now, as faculty, I cherish nothing more than being able to have been given the opportunity to pass this feeling on to my students. The University of Mary offers an exceptional education experience, and I am blessed to be apart of it again.

Expertise

I hold additional certifications including LSVT BIGВ®(2013), and V2FITВ® in concussion management (2019). I am an active member of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), both the Academy of Geriatrics and the North Dakota Chapter. I serve as a member of the continuing education committee for the NDPTA since 2020.

I hold additional certifications including LSVT BIG (2013), and V2FIT in concussion management (2019).

I am an active member of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), both the Academy of Geriatrics and the North Dakota Chapter.

I serve as a member of the continuing education committee for the NDPTA since 2020.  

Current/Active Research Activity

Co-Research Chair
Effects of an Aerobic Exercise Prescription using the NuStep recumbent Stepper on Cardiorespiratory Function and Functional Outcomes in Older Adults. 

Researcher
DiP: Factors Which Influence Physical Therapists' Decision to Practice in Vestibular Rehabilitation and Concussion Management. 

Education

MPT: University of Mary, 2003
EdD (Educational Practice and Leadership): University of North Dakota, 2022