inTouch Summer/Fall 2020

The magazine for the University of Western States community.

Adapting to Change Rooted in our shared values, UWS responds with professionalism, innovation and compassion

Summer/Fall 2020

The magazine for the University of Western States community.

PUBLICATION CREDITS

Graphic Design

Contributors

David Garcia Dana Baylor, Alisa Fairweather, Erin Kunesh,

Miranda Holtmann, Amy Lodholz, Chelsea Nordby,

Megan Nugent, Jennifer Rosenberger, Leslie Takaki

UNIVERSITY OF WESTERN STATES 8000 NE Tillamook St Portland, OR 97213 503-256-3180 – www.uws.edu

*Notice of Non-Discriminatory Policy Pursuant to university Policy 1013B and Policy 2001, UWS admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the university. UWS does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and other university programs. Associate Vice President for Student and University Affairs 8000 NE Tillamook St Portland, OR 97213 studentservices@uws.edu 503-847-2599

Director of Human Resources 8000 NE Tillamook St Portland, OR 97213 humanresources@uws.edu 503-847-2557

For further information on notice of non-discrimination, visit www.uws.edu.

Summer/Fall 2020

In This Issue 05 | President’s Message Dr. Joseph Brimhall addresses the recently revamped university core values, affirms the community for their response to uncertainty within the world, and calls for further positivity in cultural shifts.

06 | UWS Happenings News of the completion of the university relocation, naming of the official UWS mascot, accolades of UWS community members and more.

13 | Feature Story: Core Values Core values of the university have been developed and six values have been identified as most important to UWS.

16 | Publications Discover recent publications by UWS faculty, staff and students.

18 | #UWSLife Get a glance at events on campus and online showcasing the strong and vibrant UWS community.

20 | #UWSGrad Celebrate recent UWS students who have graduated and those who have participated in pinning ceremonies.

22 | Connecting with Dr. Lester Partna Learn more about a staple in the UWS chiropractic program, Dr. Lester Partna.

24 | Giving at UWS A glance at the successful Students First Emergency Relief Fund, information about the business partners vendor fair in April, and “Why I Give” profile with Dr. Leo Romero.

27 | Student Experience UWS community members offered support during uncertainty from the COVID-19 pandemic and a profile connecting with a graduate student abroad, Jessica (Nomi) Levy.

30 | Graduate Connections Get to know UWS course facilitator and alumna, Analia Camarasa and read retirement tips from UWS DC graduates.

34 | Feature Story: COVID-19 Pandemic We connected with members of the UWS community about their adaptations to their work following the COVID-19 pandemic.

43 | Continuing Education News 44 | In Memoriam 3

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The magazine for the University of Western States community.

President’s Message Taking the Lead in speaking out for equity and inclusion Our world is being faced with unprecedented challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic as well as cultural unrest.

At times like this, it’s important we come together with shared Joseph Brimhall, DC values that keep our UWS President and CEO community strong and united. UWS has developed a statement of core values that support our mission, shape our culture and exemplify the university’s distinctive identity. These core values reaffirm our solid commitment to inclusiveness and equity, providing a foundation to guide intentional actions that validate our promise to embrace people from all backgrounds, cultures, genders and races.

I am proud of how our university community has responded to recent uncertainty and turbulence with professionalism, innovation and compassion. At UWS, creating a more just and equitable culture on our campus and in the world is inextricably linked to our primary purposes: to heal and to teach. These dual purposes, together with our core values, guide us in our approach to creating lasting change.

Affirming our university core values of inclusiveness and professionalism requires determined actions that openly demonstrate our commitment to embracing people from different backgrounds, beliefs, lifestyles and races. Together, we appeal for profound change that ends systemic discrimination and promotes an environment of inclusion and safety for everyone.

As a university dedicated to improving the health and well-being of society, we have a solemn duty to openly evaluate where we are, to consciously plan for where we want to be, and to actively participate in creating a just and equitable world. This is both an intellectual and a moral calling. There is no easy way to make this cultural shift, and it is our responsibility to make it happen—on our campus, and in the world.

We invite you to join us. Together, we can make a difference.

Sincerely,

Joseph Brimhall, DC President and CEO

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The magazine for the University of Western States community.

UWS Happenings for accomplishing this historic move in the midst of challenging circumstances. This campus relocation enhances opportunities for collaboration with other institutions and community partners and fosters a healthy and sustainable center for generations.”

The impressive new facility offers innovative and versatile spaces, featuring hands-on laboratories, expanded meeting spaces, dedicated study settings, and dynamic work areas for faculty and staff. The campus features an advanced health care facility designed to fulfill patient needs and provide exceptional opportunities for clinical training.

UWS Officially Completed Relocation in Spring 2020 In April 2020, UWS completed its campus relocation to its new Portland home at 8000 NE Tillamook St. The new campus includes a 150,000-square-foot building constructed in 2006 that formerly housed the corporate headquarters of Banfield Pet Hospital.

“University of Western States has created a unique opportunity to meaningfully engage members of our neighborhood as we serve the community,” said Dr. Brimhall. “We are excited to remain in Northeast Portland and look forward to physically moving into our campus and serving students for another 116 years!” 

“As an institution of higher learning that has been in Portland since its inception in 1904, we are celebrating this relocation and our commitment to the community,” said Joseph Brimhall, DC president and CEO. “Despite the global pandemic, we succeeded in meeting our timeline and completing this complex relocation. I am proud of our team 6

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In addition to increased safety protocols, all UWS clinical staff involved in direct patient care, including student interns, completed an Infection Control Training before the start of the summer quarter. The course content was created in collaboration with the Center for Disease Control (CDC), Oregon Health Authority (OHA), State of Oregon Executive Orders and local health system partnerships.

UWS Health Center Open for Patient Care at New Campus The UWS Campus Health Center is now open and accepting new and existing patient visits allowing students to resume their clinical rotations.

President Dr. Joseph Brimhall created several campus-wide planning groups to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. Members ranged from clinical experts to administrative management.

Clinical working groups used the best available evidence to then create standards to protect students, patients and staff. Standards or best practices regarding COVID-19 continue to evolve as more information becomes available. 

UWS Official Mascot Named To help protect the community’s safety the following precautions have been enacted: • Limiting visitors –Clinic staff and patient numbers are reduced to allow appropriate social distancing throughout the clinic.

• Daily screenings – Completing temperature checks and screening symptoms prior to arrival.

• Disinfecting – More time between patient visits to allow extra cleaning and disinfecting.

• Face masks – Required masking for clinic staff and patients for all clinical interactions.

• Telehealth – Virtual visits with clinicians to discuss services such as ergonomic workstations and home exercises.

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As part of the move to the new campus, the UWS Campus Relocation Work Group surveyed the university community to receive nominations for a UWS mascot – the first in the school’s history. Guidelines for the potential mascot included: it should be real, nothing imaginary or profane and inclusive of all educational programs at UWS. After reviewing suggestions, the list was narrowed to approximately a dozen suggestions which were evaluated by the Campus Relocation Work Group who came to the two final contenders: the osprey and the raven.

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UWS Happenings

Continued

The campus community was invited to cast their vote for the final decision. The UWS official mascot is... THE OSPREY! The Osprey: Also called river hawks, sea hawks and fish hawks, ospreys are unique among North American raptors for their diet of live fish and their ability to dive into water to catch them.

The osprey is found on every continent except Antarctica. In North America, they nest along the coasts, inland lakes and rivers. Ospreys do well around humans. When hunting, they are a picture of concentration, diving with their feet outstretched and their eyes sighting straight along their talons.

Among Native American tribes, ospreys are considered a type of eagle and are accorded the same respect as bald and golden eagles. The Nez Perce considered the osprey a medicine bird; seeing an osprey in a dream or vision was a sign that a person had been granted spiritual power as a healer.

The osprey species is at least 11 million years old. 

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Dr. Daniel DeLapp Retires from UWS Clinic System Dr. Daniel DeLapp, chiropractic physician, licensed acupuncturist and naturopathic physician announced his retirement from the University of Western States clinic system effective August 2020. Dr. DeLapp served as an attending physician in the UWS clinic system for more than 30 years.

“It has been a tremendous opportunity and privilege to work with interns and patients over the years,” said Dr. DeLapp. “The wonderful support from my fellow faculty, staff and administration has made this job a very fulfilling career. I will miss you all.”

“Dr. DeLapp is a skilled and compassionate health care provider incorporating multiple disciplines into his practice,” said Dr. Stanley Ewald, UWS associate dean clinical internship.

“He is also a caring, talented educator. Opting out of private practice, he embraced education and has been training future doctors for decades. When you think about it, that’s exactly the type of person you want teaching you. We will miss him.” 

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UWS Community Members Offer Spring Term Perspectives and Support With the unprecedented times UWS and the world faced this spring due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we connected with students and members of the UWS community to get their perspectives on subjects such as mental health, resiliency, self-care activities, mindfulness, study and working from home tips.

Take a look below at some of the cataloged blogs.

• How to Remain Active While Remaining Socially Distant (March 31) • Activities to Pass Time During Quarantine (April 9) • Mental Health Services During COVID-19 (April 15) • Tips from Dr. Bill Borman and Dr. Ron LeFebvre (April 20) • Three Mindfulness Practices to Improve Leadership (April 24) • Tips from Dr. Lester Partna and Dr. Cortny Williams (April 29) • Spring Term Adjusting Lab Experiences (May 18) • Checking in with the UWS Library Staff (May 21) • Mental Health and Resiliency During COVID-19 (May 22) • Woodworking as a Treatment for a Traumatic Brain Injury (June 16) • A Look Back at Spring Quarter (June 22) 9

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UWS Library Earns High Accolade With Online Computer Library Center The Online Computer Library Center, formally known as OCLC, ranked the University of Western States Library 14th out of 7,500 libraries in their 2019 Annual Report as having the quickest interlibrary loan (ILL) turn-around time with an incredible 83% fulfillment. This statistic from a major library service provider refers to loan requests that the UWS library staff are fulfilling for other libraries. It also reflects flexible service hours (include evenings and weekends), the workflow that we have been able to establish with the library staff and their schedules, and the contribution that UWS is making to the larger scholarly community.

“The interlibrary loan team in the UWS library is amazingly efficient and resourceful in their work,” said Stephanie Debner, university librarian. “The team is focused on the needs of our students and our borrowers. Their top priority is getting resources into the user’s hands as quickly as possible. Not only do they fulfill many requests a week – often in the hundreds – for the UWS community, but they also leverage the library’s own collection to meet user information needs across the country.” 

The magazine for the University of Western States community.

UWS Happenings

Continued

Debner Approved for Senior Level Membership in Academy of Health information Professionals University Librarian, Stephanie Debner, MA, MLIS, was approved for membership in the Medical Library Association (MLA)’s Academy of Health Information Professionals (AHIP) at the senior level in March 2020. AHIP is the peerreviewed, accomplishment-based professional development and career recognition credentialing program for health information professionals. AHIP promotes lifelong learning and exemplary professional performance by recognizing achievements in continuing education, research, publishing, teaching and other contributions to the profession.

“It’s a great honor to have my work recognized by my fellow medical librarians,” said Debner. “For librarians working at smaller academic institutions or medical libraries, this recognition really helps raise the profile of our institutions with our peers.”

“At UWS, our university librarian leads the way in research and high-quality service to faculty and students with a focus on our mission and vision as a health care university,” 10

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said Dr. Dana Sims, vice president for academic affairs. “AHIP membership at the senior level is an honor for Stephanie and the university and we celebrate this accomplishment with her.” 

Anatomical bone collection in the UWS campus library

Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine Program Earns Top Ranking The UWS Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine (HNFM) program ranked as one of the Best Online Master’s in Health and Wellness in the country. The ranking was released by Online Schools Report, a new authority in online education data.

The human nutrition and functional medicine (HNFM) program at University of Western States (UWS) is the only accredited master’s program in functional medicine. It is 100% online and is offered as a collaborative

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endeavor between UWS and the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM), the organization that founded and developed the key functional medicine concepts in use today.

Online Schools Report synthesizes data from the National Center for Education Statistics, the Bureau of Labor Statics, Payscale, and the College Scorecard. Ultimately, colleges are scored based on their commitment to online education, admission rates, student satisfaction, alumni debt and specialty in the program in question. 

Dr. Rosalia Messina Elected to Council on Chiropractic Education Rosalia Messina, EdD, MPA, executive vice president of University of Western States (UWS) has been elected to the Board of Directors of the Council on Chiropractic Education (CCE). CCE is the professional accrediting agency recognized by the United States Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation to accredit doctor of chiropractic degree programs and chiropractic residencies.

Immediately following the CCE annual meeting in January 2021, Dr. Messina will be appointed to a three-year term as a CCE councilor. “It’s an honor to be elected to the Council on Chiropractic Education,” said Dr. Messina. “I am delighted to serve as a councilor 11

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to help advance the quality and integrity of chiropractic education.”

As a CCE councilor, Dr. Messina will be engaged in establishing accreditation standards and requirements, ensuring compliance with accreditation recognition criteria, reviewing program evaluation reports, and rendering decisions regarding the accreditation status of new and established doctor of chiropractic degree programs and chiropractic residencies.

“We are very proud of Dr. Messina’s election to the CCE,” said Dr. Joseph Brimhall, UWS president and CEO. “University of Western States values the accreditation process and Dr. Messina will be continuing a long-standing tradition of UWS representatives serving on recognized accrediting bodies.”

As UWS executive vice president, Dr. Messina serves as the primary representative for the president in facilitating community and government relations. She provides leadership for the integration of all university operations, including direct oversight of human resources, enrollment management, student services, communications and advancement. Dr. Messina holds a master’s degree in public administration with a focus in health policy from Portland State University, and a doctorate degree in education with a focus in interdisciplinary leadership from Creighton University. 

The magazine for the University of Western States community.

UWS Happenings

Continued

Dr. Brimhall Elected to Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities The Board of Trustees of the Oregon Alliance of Independent Colleges and Universities (“The Alliance”) announced its appointment results following their board meeting in midSeptember. Dr. Joseph Brimhall, president and CEO of UWS was named an executive committee member.

Dr. Brimhall’s appointment will begin October 2020 and runs through October 2022.

“I look forward to working with the leadership of the Alliance to advance independent higher education in Oregon,” said Dr. Brimhall.

The mission of Oregon Alliance of Independent College and Universities is to represent and serve its member institutions, all of which are regionally accredited, nonprofit, private colleges and universities in Oregon. 

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Dr. Bill Moreau Named to PACE Review Team Bill Moreau, DC, DACBSP, FACSM, chief medical officer of University of Western States (UWS) has been invited to serve on the Federation of Chiropractic Licensing Boards (FCLB) Providers of Approved Continuing Education (PACE) Review Team.

The FCLB, a non-profit association of government agencies empowered to regulate the chiropractic profession oversees PACE. The mission of the FCLB is to protect the public and to serve their member boards by promoting excellence in chiropractic regulation.

“I am looking forward to working with the FCLB to keep standards of chiropractic postgraduate education at a high level,” said Dr. Moreau.

Dr. Moreau is a licensed chiropractic physician and a board-certified Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians (ACBSP). He has presented more than 500 lectures and postgraduate education programs throughout the world. Dr. Moreau is currently president of the ACBSP and is a member of the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine editorial review board. 

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University of Western States Core Values make UWS a unique place to work and learn.

A task force was convened to formulate the key core values of the university based on input from employee focus group sessions led by Executive Vice President Rosalia Messina, EdD, MPA, and Vice President for Academic Affairs Dana Sims, PhD.

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n 2019, University of Western States (UWS) launched an initiative to better define its core values as a forward-thinking health science university. Core values are fundamental concepts that support the UWS mission and goals, shape the campus culture and exemplify the university’s brand and identity. In short, the formal exploration of core values helps the campus answer the questions, “Why do we do what we do at UWS?” and “What values do we want to personify to create an exceptional workplace and educational environment?”

“The core values will assist us promoting cohesion on our new campus by guiding us on how we want to treat each other, our students, our patients and our community,” Dr. Messina stated.

The university’s new core values will: • Guide the recruitment, selection and evaluation of employees.

• Integrate into strategic and operational planning processes.

• Inform institutional decisions and the creation of institutional goals and objectives.

• Be promoted internally and externally to help differentiate UWS from other colleges and universities.

Guided by the university motto, “for the good of the patient,” the initiative focused on engaging faculty and staff in identifying core values that

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The magazine for the University of Western States community.

Core Values

Continued

• Student-Focus “We recognize our students have different needs, experiences and backgrounds, and it is our responsibility to listen to and represent their voices in all university decisions. We are committed to providing the best student experience possible at UWS and are working to create more opportunities to hear their feedback and implement positive changes within all of our academic and co-curricular programs.”

– Directors of Student Services, Jenna Geracitano (On-Campus Students) and Rachel Hasse (Online Students)

• Professionalism “Ethical behavior, discipline, self-regulation and professional demeanor are essential to the development of professionalism in health care providers, health care organizations and health care educational institutions. This produces increased trust; improved patient safety, satisfaction, and health care outcomes; and better health care education institutions. The end result ultimately elevates the needs of the patient above all else.”

• Best Practices “In the library, the core of our work is helping students to access and integrate high quality, peer-reviewed research evidence into their coursework and clinical experiences.

Our librarians are embedded within evidence informed practice (EIP) courses throughout the DC program and partner with programs in the College of Graduate Studies to facilitate their students’ knowledge and use of information resources. When we make any changes in the library, it is always based on evidence, such as best practices from peer libraries and academic institutions and data gathered from student and faculty feedback. With the coronavirus epidemic, we have made operational plans based on best practices established by the CDC and with information from the governor’s office, in conjunction with the Oregon Health Authority; we have also been relying on the REALM project, a multi-partner initiative that involves lab testing of common library materials, to inform our practices around materials handling.”

– University Librarian, Stephanie Debner, MA, MLIS, AHIP

– Associate Dean, Clinical Internship Stanley Ewald, DC, MPH, MEd and Dean, College of Chiropractic Kathleen Galligan, DC

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• Whole-Person Health “Whole-person health requires whole-hearted commitment, an ongoing willingness to stretch beyond our previous best efforts. The classic self-care triad of whole-food nutrition, movement/exercise and stress management provides the needed foundation. But achieving optimal whole-person health also requires us to recognize the crucial roles of healthy social relationships, meaningful work and/or service to others, and acting on our innate desire to be part of something larger than ourselves.”

• Inclusivity “Each person in our community brings their full selves, including all the aspects of their layered identities, to their work and study at UWS. When we embody the value of inclusion, we see and value the experiences and background of each person, recognize the richness generated by our differences, and celebrate the similarities and shared humanity among us.”

– Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine Director, Daniel Redwood, DC, and Associate Director, Chris Browne, DC, MS

• Curiosity “Curiosity is vital not only to research but to our entire organization. It allows us to explore different ideas and cultures. It makes us more knowledgeable and increases our appreciation for life. Within research, curiosity drives our desire to understand what we don’t know, forever increasing our personal and professional knowledge, making it an appreciated and treasured core value at UWS.” – IRB Administrator/Director of Scholarly Activity, Leslie Takaki, MS

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The magazine for the University of Western States community.

– Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dana Sims, PhD, and Associate Vice President of Student and University Affairs, Elena Howells 

Publications University of Western States Publications AUTHOR

ARTICLE TITLE

DATE

LINK

Bruton, A. & Fuller, L.

Paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia symptoms markedly reduced with parenteral vitamins and minerals: A case report. The Permanente Journal, 23(19.036).

2019

Read Article

Burnham, K. & Takaki, L.

Making a case for genomics in chiropractic education. Journal of Chiropractic Education [in review].

2020

Corvia, T. & Reyna, J.

Cultural and minority affairs: Deviphering demographics, COVID racial/ethnic disparieits in Oregon. PT Log.

2020

Read Article

Encountering child sexual abuse in your work. New Circle Magazine, 1, 44-48.

2020

Read Article

Lady, S. & Burnham, K.

Sexual orientation and gender identity in patients: How to navigate terminology in patient care.

Journal of Chiropractic Humanities, 26(C), 53-59.

2019

Read Article

Leaf, B., Meany, B., Owens, R., Rich, J., Romero, J., & Woolsey, C.

Positive organizational psychology of sport (POPS): From theory to practice. Association for Applied Sport Psychology Newsletter.

2020

Read Article

Major, C., Nordeen, J., Burnham, K., Brown, K., Lambert, C., Takaki, L.

Evaluation of an online case based learning module that integrates basic and clinical sciences. Journal of Chiropractic Education [in review].

2019

Sawchuk, J., Woolsey, C., Hawk, C., & Lodato, V.

Providing integrative career counseling with junior ice hockey players: A trial of a career-based curriculum. Journal of Alternative, Complementary & Integrative Medicine, 5, 85.

2019

Read Article

Steffen, W., Woolsey, C.L., Quinn, R., & Spradley, B.

Mental toughness in coaching: A functional definition determined by elite coaches. The Sport Journal.

2020

Read Article

The effect of advanced imagery training on NCAA shot putter performance. Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, 52(5S), [in review].

2020

DelGiudice, C.

Woolsey, C., Woolsey, T., Stohmeyer, S., Walker, S., Otto, W., Cheshier, B., Diehl, C., & Jacobson, B.

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The magazine for the University of Western States community.

UWS Switchboard is a digital space to connect with the UWS community by asking for what you need and offering what you want to share.

UWS Switchboard has become a very helpful and well-utilized community platform, especially during the pandemic.

Users find jobs, shadowing, patient referrals, practice management and advice on the platform.

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See how Switchboard has helped the community during the pandemic.

Connect at uws.edu/switchboard

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The magazine for the University of Western States community.

#UWSLife Working and Studying Remotely - UWS transitioned to online learning Spring Term 2020

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The magazine for the University of Western States community.

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1. Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Dana Sims and her husband Gerald Roulette at the employee gala and recognition ceremony on campus in early March. 2, 4, 5, 6. UWS students at the Roaring 20s Student Gala in February. 3. Dr. Joseph Brimhall addressing the UWS community at the employee gala and recognition ceremony. 7-12. Students in Washington D.C. for the annual ENGAGE conference hosted by the American Chiropractic Association 13. Employee donors were honored at the employee gala. 15. Dr. Kate Brown and Dr. Christine Major. 16. Dr. Rachael Pandzik and Dr. Amanda Armington

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The magazine for the University of Western States community.

#UWSGrad Though we wish we were able to gather together in person to celebrate our graduates and new clinic interns, members from the UWS community gave congratulatory messages virtually. The June 2020 commencement student speakers were Tim Williams, doctor of chiropractic program, and Tim Frie, human nutrition and functional medicine program. Click on their images below to watch the speeches.

June 2020 Commencement Student Speakers 20

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UWS Virtual Commencement Ceremony Please join us in congratulating the graduates of the class of 2020! As we know, this has been a challenging year, and we applaud our graduates’ resilience, perseverance and dedication to their studies and patient-centered health care. We are proud of our graduates’ accomplishments!

This year, as we respond to the impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic, the December 2020 graduation ceremony will be conducted remotely. Please save the date! Friday, December 18, 2020, 11 a.m. (Pacific time zone)

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At this ceremony, all UWS 2020 graduates will be welcomed and celebrated. The Class of 2020 Virtual Commencement Ceremony will incorporate traditional elements of graduation including a keynote commencement address, a student speaker, representative greetings from the Board of Trustees and the faculty, and a presentation of graduates. The entire event will be recorded and graduates will have access to both the live and recorded event.

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Connecting with Dr. Lester Partna Dr. Lester Partna has been a staple in the UWS chiropractic sciences department since 1989 and embodies what it means to Take the Lead both in his professional and personal life. Learn more about the renaissance man, (DJ) Dr. Partna.

What inspired you to pursue a career in the field of chiropractic?

I was a teenager when I was first exposed to chiropractic. My mom was helped significantly by a chiropractor when other methods of treating her low back pain had been unsuccessful. As I learned more about chiropractic, it was the concept of conservative health care, along with the dramatic results that I witnessed in my mom that fueled my journey toward this exceptional profession. By the time I graduated from high school, my career goals were clear.

institution, and because they advocated and taught a broad-scope, patient-centered chiropractic model. Those are still the characteristics of the institution which I find to be the most compelling and which represent the most positive way forward for the profession.

What is a favorite memory you have from your time working at UWS? The daily experience of being in the classroom with eager future chiropractic physicians is energizing and fulfilling in a way that, after 26 years, has created a rich mental scrapbook of great memories. I also think of the many extracurricular UWS events that have been so enjoyable: golf tournaments, barbecues, commencement ceremonies and so many others. As I reflect on my years at UWS, I believe that my true satisfaction ultimately revolves around the relationships that have been developed with so many students and graduates over so many years. Of particular delight, in recent years, is to be able to teach the children of some of my former students.

What drives your passion for chiropractic education here at UWS?

What is one main pearl of wisdom you hope your students take away from your instruction?

I chose to attend Western States because of its reputation as a science-based chiropractic

Keep learning, while maintaining a sense of intellectual humility. As Chinese philosopher

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The magazine for the University of Western States community.

Lao-Tzu said, “To know yet to think that one does not know is best; Not to know yet to think that one knows will lead to difficulty.”

Strive to be knowledgeable—not to be a know-it-all.

Along with being the famous DJ Partna, please provide some other pastimes and passions you are involved in.

I have been told that I am a man of many interests, and I suppose that’s true. Variety has always appealed to me. That’s probably why I like buffets.

I have been a musician from my earliest years, starting on the trumpet, adding the piano, guitar, bass, and drums along the way. I sang in a barbershop quartet while attending WSCC. My wife is an accomplished musician and we performed as a duo for many years at wedding receptions and corporate events. For a period of time a few years ago, we even had the opportunity to write and perform music for television commercials. A few years ago, I took up the bagpipes with the encouragement of one of our UWS graduates.

I like to play golf, hike, collect and polish rocks from Oregon beaches, fly my hang glider, and make wooden bowls from locally available wood on my lathe. Though not as skillfully in recent years, I can ride a unicycle and juggle.

Why do you believe it’s important for health care providers to have other interests outside of work?

The story is told of nine-year-old Frank Lloyd Wright, who walked with his uncle on a winter day across a snow-covered field. As the two of them reached the far end of the field, his uncle stopped him. He pointed out his own tracks in the snow, straight and true as an arrow’s flight, and then young Frank’s tracks meandering all over the field.

“Notice how your tracks wander aimlessly from the fence to the cattle to the woods and back again,” his uncle said. “And see how my tracks aim directly to my goal. There is an important lesson in that.”

Years later the world-famous architect liked to tell how this experience had greatly contributed to his outlook on life. “I determined right then,” he’d say with a twinkle in his eye, “not to miss most things in life, as my uncle had.”

For fun - What item is on your bucket list that you cannot wait to cross off?

I want to play golf with my wife at The Old Course at St. Andrews in Scotland. It’s been on my bucket list for many years, so I don’t think it would be accurate to say that I can’t wait to cross it off. I’ve already been waiting a long time. 

This is getting too long. I should stop now.

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The magazine for the University of Western States community.

Giving at UWS

Business Partners Vendor Fair to Commence in April

Student’s First Emergency Relief Fund Success University of Western States alumni, friends and employees came together to support UWS students during the COVID-19 pandemic in June 2020. In two short weeks, our community gave back in a powerful way. Both on campus and online students applied. Thank you donors!

By the Numbers: • 58 donors • $8,667 raised; distributed equally • 57 students received assistance “It has been a challenge these last few months balancing financial obligations, childcare for my three and six-year-old daughters and my academic goals at UWS,” said Sarah Nieminski, human nutrition and functional medicine student. “This grant will help me buy all my school supplies for this upcoming summer term and instead of worrying about these purchases I am now very much looking forward to preparing for my classes! Thank you!” 

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Business partners help University of Western States thrive. On Tuesday, April 20, 2021 from 12 – 2 p.m. we invite you to join students and staff in our new campus foyer for this unique tabling event to showcase your products, brand and values. All proceeds raised by partnering vendors support the university’s diversity and inclusion initiatives. Download the event flyer here.

Vendor Booth Exhibition Cost: $250.

Register for the Vendor Fair here.

COVID-19 Notice: We are paying close attention to the current guidelines for events. We will notify all vendors

by March 15, 2021 if we have to cancel due to event restrictions. All companies are eligible for a full refund if they choose. You can see the most up-to-date information about the vendor fair under the “Information for Donors” section of UWS COVID-19 resource page.

Questions? Contact Amy Lodholz, director of donor relations at giving@uws.edu or 541-968-3530. 

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Why I Give Donor Profile

the rehabilitation of those. I also knew that the chiropractic adjustment had effects on the viscera as well as the wellness of the body and that also intrigued me. I was privileged by participating in hospital rotations when I was an intern and spent a lot of my own time attending and going through technique and postgraduate training. A highlight for me was achieving a mastery of chiropractic and the ownership of that knowledge.

What advice do you have for new chiropractic physicians joining the profession today?

UWS checked in with longtime supporter and alumnus, Dr. Leo Romero. UWS proudly honors his support with the Romero Assessment Center at our new campus.

Tell us about your career path and share some highlights.

I felt privileged to be in chiropractic college and felt excited about understanding the body and how what I was about to learn was going to make a difference. I was very curious about techniques and focused on developing methods that were consistent with what I felt was good for the types of patients I visualized.

I mostly visualize musculoskeletal injuries and 25

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They need to be excited and passionate about helping people and being the best chiropractic physician they can be. It is about being a doctor that is willing to help the elements and the conditions that their license allows them to do. I suggest that they put philosophies aside and really focus on acquiring the knowledge so that they can expand their toolbox and can make the right decisions when cases are presented to them. It is all about being passionate and prepared. I encourage them to visualize the office visit and work on their professionalism so that they can not only meet the patient’s expectations but do it rightfully and professionally.

What would you say to others to encourage them to give back as you have?

Giving back is a very personal thing. If you are content with what you have done and you

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Giving at UWS

Continued

are excited about life, then you want to pass that on to people. If chiropractic is something that excites you, then giving back to your alma mater’s and the profession you believe in becomes natural.

What do you hope for UWS to accomplish in the future?

I expect UWS to continue to produce great chiropractors. The institution needs to continue to train these practitioners so that they have a mastery of obtaining histories, providing examinations and determining the best decision making to help their patient. The delivery of that decision-making by providing the best adjustments and adjunct therapies is pivotal because at the end of the day we are chiropractors and society’s expectations for chiropractic physicians stem around physician status and providing manual therapies.

Are there other chiropractors in your family?

I never thought that any of my children had any interest in being a chiropractic physician.

My oldest, Isabella, is a nurse at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) and my second (Dominique) became a therapist. However, I started to see that natural curiosity that I had in her and we had a heart-to-heart where she made a commitment to become a chiropractic physician. I was shocked and so happy! She wants to help and heal people and attend UWS.

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Romero Assessment Center at the new campus

My youngest, Maria, is still in high school.

Also, my girlfriend’s 13-year old daughter, Kamrynn, also wants to be a chiropractor! 

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Student Experience help me on a day-to-day basis make healthier decisions for myself and my family. I am able to be a more valuable resource for my coaching clients and the IFM affiliated doctor that I work with. I see this degree as a stepping stone to so many goals that I have - continuing my education even further, writing a book and getting my CNS certification.

How have you adapted your coaching business and working with clients during this time?

Connecting with a Graduate Studies Student Abroad Jessica (Nomi) Levy, NBC-HWC, RYT UWS Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine (HNFM) Student Social media handle: @nomiknowshealth How has the HNFM program helped deepen your knowledge and pursuit toward incorporating functional medicine into your life and future career?

I regularly say to my husband - I absolutely love my program! I am learning things that 27

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At the beginning of the pandemic I, along with the rest of the world, switched over to Zoom sessions. I was a little nervous because I felt like we would lose some of the “magic” connection that happens in a session. However, I was surprised that for some of my clients it made things easier. It eliminated the trip into my office and let them schedule their session over their lunch break or another convenient time. Instead of me sticking to my office days, like I normally would, my hours opened up. I could see clients while my kids had their evening tutoring sessions or early in the morning while they were sleeping in. As we have now transitioned to being back at my office, I am back to regular hours, but I still offer all of my clients the choice of connecting virtually or in-person. About onethird have chosen to stay on Zoom.

With the normal happenings of each day being interrupted by the pandemic, how have you kept yourself focused in life, motherhood, work and schoolwork?

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Student Experience

Continued

The pandemic made life a lot more intense in some ways and relaxed in others. The first week of shut down for Israel coincided with winter 2020 finals week. I was writing papers and studying and my kids were just in the house, trying to entertain themselves. I adjusted by waking up early, doing a few hours of work while the kids slept in a bit, and then spent the day with the kids, catching a time here or there for work, and playing tag team with my husband so we could manage it all. I can say that I felt grateful for school because it kept me focused on something other than checking the news or googling “Corona symptoms for dogs.”

What are some things your family has adopted into their routine that has served you well?

One thing my kids will probably say that has served us well is our new TV! We have never owned a television and have limited, (once a week for two hours) screen access, for my kids. Once corona hit we ordered a television and in the evenings, we would have TV time together. We watched cooking shows, sports and some oldie family movies. My kids got into parkour from watching one show - not the best sport to try while in lockdown! We enjoyed that time to slow down together at the end of the day and just laugh. Now that life has started back to normal, we are back to our usual limited screen time but we do enjoy just

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squishing on the couch together every once in a while and watching a movie.

What nutrition, wellness and self-care advice could you offer your fellow UWS classmates?

Wherever you are in life, whether in the single and learning stage, juggling with family and work /school stage, or anywhere in between, have a sacred routine. My sacred routine involves getting up each morning before my kids, enjoying a coffee with my husband and then going for a run. I did this during corona even when the lockdown meant we weren’t allowed to be out of a 100-meter radius from our house. I ran a lot of circles around the block! A sacred routine sets the theme for the whole day. I can’t imagine just waking up and jumping into my day. Entering each day having had a little “me time” means that I am more mentally available for all the different roles and activities in my life. 

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Graduate Connections Analia Camarasa, MS-HNFM, IFMCP, CNS, UWS course facilitator, UWS alumni mentor Why did you choose the field/profession of human nutrition and functional medicine?

My brilliant father used to say, “no one can take away your education.”

He understood the true meaning of this having only completed 6th grade. With that in mind, I chose the field of human nutrition and functional medicine out of need, having more health questions than answers for my daughter and myself. I had been suffering with crippling fatigue and gastrointestinal issues since college that conventional medicine could not fix. At a young age, my daughter suddenly developed unexplained large motor tics. It propelled me to seek higher-level education in pursuit of bettering the state of our health. Within two years, I had graduated and was able to take my health to greater heights with the knowledge gained during this very rigorous program. I felt I had a new lease in life.

Briefly share your experience in advocating for state licensure in North Carolina.

During my time at UWS, I took two elective courses through the Institute for Functional

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Medicine (IFM). These advanced practice modules introduced me to that wonderful educational organization. After graduating from UWS, I was hired to be teaching staff at the master’s program while I continued taking the advanced practice modules from IFM for three years. This experience complemented the education I had gained at UWS very well. In addition, after graduation, I sat for and passed the BCNS exam to become a Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS). All the while, I was working on the 1,000 supervised practice experience hours required to gain the title of CNS. What does it mean to you to become the first licensed nutritionist in your state?

With the support of the North Carolina (NC) Board of Dietetics/Nutrition (the licensing board for dietitians and nutritionists in NC), the North Carolina Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and the Nutrition Advocacy Group (now known as the American Nutrition Association) I advocated for about four years to change the NC Dietetics/Nutrition Practice Act. In 2018, after many discussions, meetings and drafting, a new pathway to license nutritionists in the state of North Carolina was enacted.

When the opportunity to become a member of the North Carolina Board of Dietetics/Nutrition dietetics presented itself, I leapt at the chance to help more qualified nutritionists to become licensed in our state. As a result of my education at UWS with a master’s degree in nutrition plus having completed 1,000 hours of supervised

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clinical practice experience, I was honored to become the first licensed nutritionist (LN) in the state of North Carolina.

How have you evolved and adapted in your own practice or work during this intense time (pandemic, social upheaval, economic uncertainty)?

The good news is that all of my studying inspired my husband to grow his knowledge of nutrition and functional medicine as well.

Aside from being an IFM certified practitioner, he is also a board-certified emergency medicine physician. This means that we when it came to the pandemic, we saw the writing on the wall and begun quarantine before it was required in our state. This lead us to start seeing patients virtually early on, at first over the phone. Soon, we began our first telehealth visits and our patients quickly adjusted to the new normal.

How did your work with UWS help you to become an IFM certified practitioner?

During my education at UWS, I took an elective class in Herbal Medicine. Inspired by the depth of knowledge of HNFM’s professor and western herbalist Jason Hawrelak (ND, PhD), I was accepted into a two-year herbal studies program with Registered Herbalist David Winston. Since graduating from UWS, I have taken many continued education courses and attended many conferences to deepen my knowledge of herbs as it relates to nutrition. I eagerly look forward to be once again a devoted student with the 31

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goal of becoming a registered herbalist.

I am so grateful I followed my dreams to earn a master’s degree, to become a CNS, a North Carolina licensed nutritionist, and an Institute for Functional Medicine Certified Practitioner (IFMCP). Continuously learning and helping one patient at a time gives me immense joy. I am forever grateful to have heeded my father’s advice and have started in this journey with University of Western States’ Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine program. It has opened my life to new opportunities, to be of service and touch the lives to the people in my community. 

Retirement Thoughts from UWS Community Members DCs Ready to Retire? Enriched with knowledge and experience, the UWS alumni community is empowered by our retirees.

Learn from UWS chiropractic graduates who have recently completed this chapter of their lives. Thank you for sharing your wisdom!

John Strauss, DC Class of 1978 (retired 2020)

Paul Pirruccello, DC Class of 1981 (retired 2020)

Judy Fox, DC Class of 1981 (retired 2018)

Stephen Liston, DC Class of 1993 (retired 2019)

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Graduate Connections

Continued

What advice do you have for alumni nearing retirement?

Strauss: Make sure that you have your finances in gear and have a plan for either selling your practice or doing what I did – I couldn’t sell my practice because of COVID-19, so I sold my chiropractic equipment on Craigslist. I donated a lot to Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Put money away for savings; do some investments – so you have a little nest egg when you get out.

Pirruccello: I had an interesting discussion with a chiropractic consulting company a few years ago regarding retirement. The one thing that stuck with me was, “don’t feel like you’re leaving something behind. Look forward to where you are heading.” I liked that and I found that to be very helpful when making the decision to retire.

We develop such wonderful relationships with our patients and it can be hard to tell them that you are retiring. I hate disappointing people.

However, everyone was so understanding, especially when I told them “where I was heading” in retirement.

Liston: It’s very stressful at first to not be making money; you really need to save up. You have to decide when you’re going to retire and what you’re going to do afterwards – so I did sell my practice and gave a new grad a great 32

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deal with no overhead. It’s very hard to sell practices now adays. I was able to cover the financing for them and we’ve both been happy with the arrangement.

Fox: It is important to put aside as much money as possible while you have a reliable income.

There’s no better feeling than to have enough money to comfortably live on when you are no longer working.

How has your identity as a chiropractic physician changed in retirement?

Strauss: I feel like they say in the army, you’re obsolete, superseded and no longer needed.

After 42 years of practice I was ready to stop.

I know I am still a doctor. I spent a lot of time working on my craft and I was really ready to relax and not worry about my identity.

Pirruccello: I don’t feel that my identity has changed much at all. Now I am a retired chiropractic physician doing part-time medical legal work.

Fox: A good number of my friends are previous patients who have known and trusted me for many years. Several still refer to me as Dr. Judy. One builds such a degree of self-respect and accomplishment during the process of becoming and practicing as a chiropractor that identity never subsides.

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“...don’t feel like you’re leaving something behind. Look forward to where you are heading.”

- Paul Pirruccello, DC

Liston: You don’t realize you don’t have to run anymore and now you have to find your new life. I learned from my wife, whatever will be will be. It all seems to work out.

What are you looking forward to now that you’re retired?

Strauss: I think it’s important not to worry about it; chill out. It’s a good thing to clear your mind; all the effort, all the work – just relax and do nothing for a while.

Fox: I’m still rejoicing in the knowledge that every morning I can choose what I want to do with my day. No alarm clocks, few obligations.

Time to renew and replenish old relationships that I never had time to do when practicing.

Liston: I’m as busy as I can be! I’ve got an old house I’m fixing up, and some hobbies - like cooking and I do yard art, garden, I tinker with mechanical things and I’m involved with my family. I still would like to do a few more hundred miles of the Pacific Coast Trail; I’ve done half of it so far.

UWS mentor program is a great way to give back during retirement.

Contact alumnirelations@uws.edu to express your interest. 

Pirruccello: Time. More than anything, I enjoy having the time to do what I want, when I want. It seems that being in private practice for almost 40 years, I was in constant motion, whether I wanted to be or not. I was always doing things for others before doing things for myself. Now I can go at my own pace and do more things for myself. I also enjoy volunteering my time in the local community.

Giving back to others, who have been so generous to me throughout my career.

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How the UWS Community Has Adapted to the Current Life of the COVID-19 Pandemic The coronavirus pandemic has affected health care and the well-being of our families, neighbors and friends. We connected with members of the UWS community to see how they have adapted their practices and protocols in these challenging times.

Chiropractic Ali Masoumi - DC, UWS alumni mentor, ambassador and shadowing partner in Canada Why did you choose chiropractic over another profession?

I originally wanted to get into dentistry, but after I observed a dentist in practice, I didn’t like it at all. We had a sports chiropractor at the university I attended treating students and athletes. This is how I was exposed to chiropractic and since treating athletes is my passion, I enrolled myself in the doctor of chiropractic program. After completion, I started my master’s in sports medicine and after that was over, I started my sports residency (RCCSS(C)) in Canada for another four years.

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How were you able to help other practitioners in your community during the pandemic?

I originally saw a helpful post on social media that was tailored to just doctors of chiropractic needing a place to practice. I reshared it, but changed it to help not just DCs, but any other health care practitioner that needed a place to practice but was unable to. I opened my clinic on June 1, 2020. There were lots of empty rooms and I thought if it can help a practitioner even for a few weeks, it would be a great. I had a physiotherapist contact me and we set everything up, but fortunately their clinic opened up on time and the PT didn't need to make the move.

How have you evolved and adapted in your own practice during this intense time (pandemic, social upheaval, economic uncertainty)?

Opening up a new clinic during a pandemic is tough, but I don't let it bother me, because this

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Curious about how UWS is keeping students safe?

Adjusting and In-Person Lab Experiences on the New Campus At the beginning of the summer 2020 quarter, UWS opened the doors to the new campus for in-person instruction of adjusting and basic science labs.

This undertaking required new safety and sanitation protocols. Part of the communication to the students included a Facilities Safety Newsletter that highlights safety tips, a link to the COVID-19 exposure form and more.

The university also updates a resource page on the website that gives up-todate information, resources and links.

What are some ways that adjusting labs have been adapted for summer term?

We created small cohorts for each lab, of no more than twelve students. The students are kept in these discrete cohorts for every lab, working on the same partner, to reduce exposure.

These smaller lab sizes also allow for more focused instruction to take place in a shorter period of time, limiting student’s time on campus.

Our new building allows for delivery of content by the faculty in one lab to be shown on screen across four labs for consistency of content delivery.

What are some of the safety protocols being implemented in between adjusting labs?

Everyone on campus is required to wear a face covering, including in the adjusting labs. Students are paired up and remain in those pairs to avoid increased exposure. When instruction is taking place they are spread around the room, at least six feet apart. Tables have been moved around the building to accommodate these smaller groups and each pair of students has two tables to work on, so that cleaning 35

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between student use is easier to accomplish. At the end of a lab, all surfaces are wiped down and cleaning is tracked on a form mounted on the door so it is clear to the next group using the room it was sanitized.

How has UWS been working with students to ensure they stay atop of their hands-on learning during these challenging times?

The smaller lab groups are improving instruction by allowing more focused time for each student. Each cohort also has an extra assigned lab designed early in the quarter to allow for spring skills to be mastered and later in the quarter to add time for summer skill practice. The chiropractic science faculty has also been very responsive to any student’s need to assistance, within our safety constraints.

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Sanitation Protocols One of the ways we are keeping our community safer is by increasing sanitation measures on campus. Here are a few key measures: • UWS staff are disinfecting in common areas every 1-2 hours.

• UWS faculty have established protocols for cleaning lab classrooms between courses.

• Our cleaning company is doing a deep clean of common areas every night, including nightly electrostatic disinfection.

What is electrostatic disinfection?

Electrostatic disinfection works by spraying an electrostatically charged mist of disinfecting products onto surfaces and objects. Due to the electrostatic charge, the spray clings to any surface it comes into contact with, allowing time for the disinfecting products to work. This method is ideal for irregularly shaped surfaces and hard-to-reach areas.

COVID-19 Pandemic was out of my hands and had nothing to do with my preparation and business plan. Even though my walking traffic is 1/10th of what it should be, I am lucky to have a strong referral program from the medical doctors around as I have been working in a medical clinic prior to this move.

What do you tell patients who want/need care but are concerned about COVID-19 (safety protocols, your advice)?

We've implemented all the safety measures recommended by our college and the government. Besides all the clinic protocols and cleaning measures, mandatory masks for patients and practitioners, and we send out a questionnaire for every patient on every visit prior to their appointment. 

Clinical Mental Health Counseling Michelle Cox, PhD, LPC NCC, ACS UWS Clinical Mental Health Counseling program director Why did you choose clinical mental health counseling over another profession?

I had a full career as an operations manager and entrepreneur in the steel fabrication 36

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Continued

industry, which is a very difficult industry to be in as a female. I was consistently told I listened well, and that is likely one reason why I won jobs over some competitors. When the Gulf War occurred and construction and manufacturing industries tanked, I went looking for something else to do…something that felt a little gentler than the steel industry.

A friend suggested clinical mental health counseling and the rest is history.

How were you able to help other practitioners in your community during the pandemic?

I am an Approved Clinical Supervisor in the Oregon and a Nationally Approved Clinical Supervisor as well. Most of my practice is supervising newer clinicians working toward licensure. All of them were faced with either layoffs, temporarily closing their practices or learning ethical telehealth best practices. Part of my supervisory responsibility is to help them make the transition to telehealth so they can continue to earn a living and assist clients.

They have flourished despite how difficult it can be for clients and clinicians to adjust.

How does the online delivery of the CMHC program help during these times?

The clinical mental health counseling program at UWS was uniquely positioned in the online delivery platform. Our experience facilitating a fully online program meant that we had all the

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content, systems, processes and people in place when other universities were struggling to get their courses online. Our primary adjustment has been in understanding the ways in which our current and future students are being impacted and being responsive to them. This could mean they need more time to complete assignments because they are also teaching children at home while working from home and going to school. This may also mean offering greater flexibility in students’ program plans so they can slow or speed up their programs as needed. I have seen some recent articles suggesting that with the use of telehealth, counseling is a COVID-proof field and we are excited to be able to prepare new clinicians to face our world’s challenges. This crisis has highlighted the need for mental health care and reduces the stigma related to receiving it. So, we expect to see an increase in our application and we are prepared to manage this uptick.

How has the CMHC program adapted delivery/telehealth/practicum services during these times?

Not only are our students adept at online learning, but our standardized patient program trains them to counsel using telehealth and to do so ethically. Well before COVID-19, our courses included standardized patients – who are mental health trained actors who play clients for our students. This allows our students to practice their knowledge and skills

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on what feels like a real client before they begin work with clients in their own communities.

We provide clear and direct assessment and feedback about their online counseling during weekly supervision because we are recording and reviewing these sessions. We can also be online during the sessions and lead by example when that will help the student grow. This training includes differentiating between the ways affect, emotion, and client energy come across online versus live. Because of these experiences, some of our students have been called upon to develop telehealth protocols and training at their sites. Our adaptation has really been our consistent communication with site supervisors to let them know our students can successfully continue their clinical work using an online platform.

How have you evolved and adapted in your own practice during this intense time?

I am really blessed to be an introvert. I love having quiet space and time to reflect. I am my best self when I am alone to ponder my teaching, director, supervisor and clinical responsibilities. I have continued to rely on HIPAA-complaint online platforms to work with colleagues, students and clinicians. I realize, though, that many of these folks are extroverts and are really feeling isolated. So, I have worked to be positive, encouraging and to check in personally with those folks I know are likely struggling.

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COVID-19 Pandemic What do you tell clients who want/need care but are concerned about COVID-19 (safety protocols, your advice)?

The key to getting care or support in an online format is to slow down the process. It can take some practice to get used to socializing and receiving care using technology, but I have seen great results and my supervisees and students have as well. There are many support groups available online and most allow people to listen without their cameras on, which allows even more privacy. Be patient. Know that technology may have a glitch every once in a while that may delay sound or image. Be willing to repeat yourself. Pause a bit longer between sentences. Give yourself a quiet, private space when possible so you minimize distractions when you are talking with a counselor, family member or friend. Most importantly, know that all the helpers are out there. We want to help and are working to be available to you in a safe way. If your counselor is returning to the office, they will offer safety protocols so make sure you review those rules and follow them carefully. We want everyone to be safe and healthy. 

Continued

Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine Chris Browne, DC, MS, HNFM Associate Director How does the online delivery of the HNFM program help during these times?

A major benefit of online education has always been reducing barriers to access. This is especially important at a time when our access to locations outside the home is severely limited. By offering a fully-online program in an asynchronous format, we can provide students with the flexibility to choose the days of the week and times of day when they complete their coursework. We recognize that many students’ work schedules and social/ family responsibilities are very different as a result of this pandemic, making this flexibility more essential than ever. We are pleased to offer students an opportunity to work toward their desired careers in a setting that does not increase their risk of illness and that supports their well-being.

What are some strategies for staying resilient and supporting immune function with nutrition and functional medicine?

First, it’s crucial to follow public health recommendations including minimizing trips

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out of the home, social distancing, washing hands frequently and wearing a face covering when outside the home. Functional medicine approaches seek to prevent illness whenever possible and these basic steps are essential for that. For individuals with chronic health problems, keeping their existing illness(es) under control is a major priority, so continuing to work with health care providers to make sure they’re following an up-to-date care plan is necessary. The next steps from there will vary by individual, but most people will benefit from regular exercise (helps with immune function and stress management), avoiding processed convenience foods (these can spark inflammation) and following a whole food eating approach with lots of colorful plant foods (providing antioxidant and immuneboosting nutrients). There’s research evidence that supports the use of specific nutritional supplements and botanical medicines as either preventive or co-treatment options for viral infections; some of this information may be cautiously applied to COVID-19, but advice on the use of supplements for this purpose should come from an individual’s healthcare provider, preferably one with a functional medicine education. 

Sport and Performance Psychology Melissa White, EdD UWS SPP Alumna Why did you choose to provide sport psychology services over another profession?

I am passionate about sports and I have coached athletes for more than 20 years. I saw athletes over the year excel physically, but were just missing something, the mental side. I knew there was a need for me to be able to “coach” them on that side of the sport as well.

How were you able to help other practitioners in your community during the pandemic?

I was able to work with other coaches to help them, help their athletes. It was a really tough time for athletes with all of the unknowns and stress of whether or not sports would be taking place. I was able to offer advice and suggestions to coaches for them to be able to implement with their athletes.

What are some ways that sport psychology care in general has evolved with many sports being cancelled due to the pandemic?

It has definitely been a learning experience over the past several months while working with athletes who have lost their season due to

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COVID-19 Pandemic the cancellation of sports. One of the things I found the most interesting/difficult is that there were no two stories the same. Each athlete that I spoke to was dealing with the experience in a different way and had a different view. It often depended on whether or not they were going to have another chance to compete, or how committed they were to the sport. With so many varying aspects it was important to look at each individual on a separate basis.

How have you evolved and adapted in your own practice during this intense time?

During this time, I have had to be more creative to help the athletes. There was a lot more distance coaching implemented during this time.

What do you tell clients who want/need care but are concerned about COVID-19 (safety protocols, your advice)?

It was a very difficult time for all of us, we were navigating uncharted territory. When I met with clients in person we took all the necessary safety protocols as far as social distancing and the wearing of masks. If there was a need to meet virtually we made the necessary adjustments to normal protocol. 

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Continued

Sport and Performance Psychology D’Anthony Smith, EdD UWS SPP Alumnus Why did you choose to provide sport psychology services over another profession?

My reasoning for selecting to provide sport psychology services over other professions in sports is two-fold. I was first introduced to the field of sport psychology during my rookie year in the National Football League. In the league, the position is called the player development director, and they act as a liaison between the player and the community. This role would often introduce players to members of the community. During a PLAY 60 event, I met Dr. James Chidester, a clinical psychologist who worked with athletes. Already having an interest in the field during my undergraduate years, discovering that I could work with athletes was the icing on the cake. The second aspect comes from personal experience within the sports world.

After dealing with several injuries throughout my career and encountering several instances where mental skills development could have been beneficial. I have made it a mission of mine and my private practice to help athletes develop the confidence, the mindset, and skills

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needed to play at an optimal level. With my degree from UWS, not only would I be able to relate to athletes from an athletic perspective, but I could now help them develop, process, and train the mental components of being an athlete.

What are some ways that sport psychology care, in general, has evolved with many sports being canceled due to the pandemic?

As a new member of the field, the evolution of sport psychology felt more like the “norm” for me. Whether it is establishing an online presence or gaining a better understanding of the new HIPPA related regulations, creating avenues that provide an increase of accessibility to athletes has proven to be a top priority of care for all practitioners.

What are some tips you could provide to other performance consultants working with athletes during this time?

to discover avenues that enhance their plan-A. Whether it is engaging in self-care to be 100% when the time does come to perform or exploring techniques that could improve their current development levels. As a member of the performance psychology field, I would be biased If I only recommended athletes focusing on their mental approach to performance.

What is your main takeaway piece of advice to athletes whose seasons have been affected by the pandemic?

After working with several clients during this pandemic, the most influential piece of advice to athletes would be to ask to embrace the support of their family members, friends and community. Although the season may be lost, the same individuals who would have been in the stands cheering you on during the season are still supporting you now. 

I have two tips that I would recommend to performance consultants working with athletes. The first would be to stay updated on the pandemic news and how it could affect the athlete and their seasons. Although an athlete’s season may be canceled, there are several other components that an athlete could improve during this time and keeping them informed on the services that become available during the pandemic. The second piece of advice would be to encourage athletes

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The magazine for the University of Western States community.

COVID-19 Pandemic Sports Medicine Rebecca Bell, DC, MS, CCSP UWS DC Alumna Why did you choose to provide sports medicine services over another profession?

I chose sports medicine for a multitude of reasons, but as a long-time athlete, I will always have a deep-rooted love for sports. I underwent many injuries throughout my years of competitive sports, and I was fortunate enough to always have awesome providers in my corner helping me get back to 100%.

I really wanted to be able to do that for athletes because I knew I would really enjoy it knowing how grateful I was for the providers that helped me along the way.

What are some ways that sports medicine care in general has evolved with many sports being cancelled due to the pandemic?

This pandemic has sparked dramatic changes in many aspects of our lives. I think one of the big ways sports medicine has changed since the onset of this pandemic is that athletes all over are returning to sports after a long period of not doing a ton of sport-specific training, and in some cases not doing a lot of intense exercise overall. This is important to consider as a sports medicine provider because now more

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Continued

than ever we need to carefully consider how to safely re-introduce athletes to their sports while reducing injury risk as much as possible.

How have you evolved and adapted in your own practice during this intense time?

Our clinic and my patients have been so wonderful during these unique times. Everyone wears a mask, washes their hands and gets their temperature taken before their visit.

We changed the flow of traffic in our clinic to be one way only; in one door and out the other. Telemedicine was not something we had previously considered or offered, but we did start to offer that during this time and some patients have opted to continue visits that way.

What do you tell clients who want/need care but are concerned about COVID-19 (safety protocols, your advice)?

If any of my patients express concern regarding coming into the clinic due to COVID-19, I assure them that whatever decision they make is the right one. I share our clinic safety protocols with them, and offer them the telemedicine option. During times like this everyone is going to have a different level of comfort when it comes to in-person visits, and I think the best way to navigate that is to fully respect the choices people make about coming in for treatment, while reassuring them that you will still be there for them once they decide they feel comfortable. 

The magazine for the University of Western States community.

Continuing Education News Virtual Summer in December Hawaii CE Program Due to the travel restrictions in Hawaii, which are expected to extend beyond the current fall expiration, it is not possible to come together in the Aloha state this year for Summer in December.

It is our pleasure to announce that in partnership with DCOnline, UWS is offering the Summer in December program virtually!

Our speakers, Dr. Bill Moreau, Dr. Bev Harger and Lori Holt, RN, will be providing 10 hours of continuing education (CE) that can be

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taken at your own pace, from the safety and comfort of your own home or office. There is also the option to add an additional 10 hours of continuing education from DCOnline.

This additional 10 hour interactive package – The Spine in Sport and Probiotics-Today’s Research – has been selected to accompany the Summer in December program. This is an excellent opportunity to meet annual CE requirements.

We hope that you can join us in 2020 as we move our program from Hawaii to the cloud!

Learn more and registration here. 

The magazine for the University of Western States community.

In Memoriam Heather Crumbaker

Kenneth Peterson

Kenji Yaguchi

6/22/2020

3/9/2020

4/28/2020

Class of 1989

Class of 1951

Class of 1950

Read obituary

Read obituary

Dr. Richard Lubin

Dr. Pete Shull

Lyle Zurflu

3/28/2020

3/2020

2/20/2020

Class of 1981

Associate professor,

Class of 1976

clinical education at

Read obituary

UWS from 1983-2015.

Steven Mark Perkins 3/12/2020 Class of 1980

— 2019 Memoriam — • Mark Langer

• Gerald Lesniak

• Harold Murphy

12/19/2020

11/28/2019

6/7/2019

DC class of 1980

DC class of 1974

DC class of 1977

Read obituary

Read obituary

• Alan Pearson • Michael Laz

• Brock Mathieson

8/10/2019

10/15/2019

12/15/2019

DC class of 1978

DC class of 1980

DC class of 1997

Valedictorian of his class in 1978.

Read obituary

Read obituary

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The magazine for the University of Western States community.

In Memory of Dr. Pete Shull Dr. Pete Shull was a valued part of our campus community for many years and has been a strong contributor to the chiropractic community as a whole. He passed away in March 2020.

Dr. Shull will be deeply missed. View the retirement video honoring professor James Carollo, Dr. David Peterson and Dr. Pete Shull on the university’s YouTube channel.

On campus, in commemoration of Dr. Shull, Dr. Lester Partna gifted a homemade bowl upon Dr. Shull’s retirement in 2015. Dr. Bill Borman spoke at the ceremony and touched on the symbolism the bowl has.

“Pete is renowned for his thoroughness, his attention to detail and his effectiveness as a communicator and as an educator. Pete’s ability to articulate his point with both style and humor has impressed generations of students and colleagues.

In the recent past, we’ve begun what is becoming somewhat of a tradition for retirement occasions such as this one. Our very own Lester Partna is a very accomplished craftsman in creating beautiful wooden bowls. Lester has done so again this year on behalf of the university as gifts for Pete, Jim

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and Dave. The bowls Lester made this year all come from the same big leaf maple tree that once stood in the beautiful Laurelhurst neighborhood in Portland.

The symbolism of these bowl, as gifts in recognition of long and illustrious careers spent together as colleagues and friends, is profound. In many respects, Pete, Jim and Dave are cut from the same stock as the bowls come from the same tree. They’ve grown together in their professional careers and they’ve each made significant positive contributions to the legacy of the chiropractic degree program. Like the majestic tree, their presence has been impactful for all their surroundings and their departure leaves a void that will take much time to fill. In each of these bowls, some of the bark from the ageless tree remains. For me, that bark is most symbolic of what Pete, Jim and Dave presented outwardly to each of us who had the very good fortune to work and learn with them. The transition to the beautiful wood grain that had been hidden underneath is emblematic of what they each yet to experience, discover and enjoy as they make their transition away from their professional lives.” 

The magazine for the University of Western States community.