Teaching excellence starts with FLARE

Dr. Bliven is Chair of the Department of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences at ATSU, where she also serves as professor and director of clinical anatomy. She co-teaches human anatomy for dental, occupational therapy, and physical therapy programs on the Mesa campus, having previously taught in ATSU’s Kinesiology and Athletic Training programs as well as Indiana State University’s Athletic Training Department. Her research on shoulder function and health addresses mechanisms of shoulder stability, muscle activation during rehabilitation, adaptations in the throwing shoulder, and quality of life in throwing athletes. In addition to directing the Interdisciplinary Research Laboratory, she is vice chair of the Institutional Review Board at ATSU-Mesa. Dr. Bliven edits the Journal of Sport Rehabilitation and contributes to professional committees such as the BOC Exam Development Committee. She holds a BS in Biology and Physical Education from Denison University, an MS in Kinesiology from Indiana University, and a PhD in Kinesiology with an Athletic Training emphasis from Temple University.

Dr. Burch has served as Dean of ATSU’s Arizona School of Health Sciences since 2019, after holding roles as vice dean and Chair of the Physical Therapy Department (2008–2012). She earned her EdD (2005), MPH (2002), and MSPT (1989) from Columbia University and completed a postdoctoral fellowship in Health Disparities at Teachers College, Columbia. Her scholarly interests focus on healthcare providers’ knowledge, attitudes, and self-efficacy toward underrepresented patient groups, as well as higher education leadership during times of crisis. Dr. Burch authored A Guide to Physical Therapy and co-investigated an NIH grant exploring exercise programs for breast cancer survivors in Puerto Rico. She has held clinical, administrative, and faculty positions at institutions including the University of Puerto Rico, Mercy College, and Long Island University. A 2025 National Academies of Practice Distinguished Scholar Fellow, she has lived and worked internationally in Greece, Taiwan, India, and Puerto Rico.

Dr. Maldonado De la Rosa is an assistant professor in ATSU’s Speech-Language Pathology Graduate Program. She earned her PhD in Second Language Research from Interamerican University of Puerto Rico, an MS in Speech-Language Pathology from Universidad Ana G. Mendez, and a BS in Biology from the University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras. Prior to ATSU, she worked as a bilingual SLP and pediatric feeding specialist in settings ranging from skilled nursing facilities to telehealth. Her research focuses on Speech-Language Pathologists’ approaches to code-switching when working with culturally and linguistically diverse clients. She serves on the board of ASHA’s Hispanic Caucus and holds training as a University Innovation Fellow from Stanford and in bio-entrepreneurship from California State University I-Corps.

Dr. Hastie is Dean of the College of Graduate Health Studies at ATSU and a Fellow of the American College of Sports Medicine. She holds an EdD from George Fox University (2013), an MS in Exercise and Sport Science (biomechanics) from the University of Oregon (2003), and a BS in Exercise Science from Gonzaga University (2001). Previously, she was Professor and Program Chair of Exercise Science at Lasell University, where she also served as Faculty Fellow for the Fuss Center for Research on Intergenerational Education and Aging. Dr. Hastie chairs ACSM’s Ethics and Professional Standards Committee and serves on its Exercise Is Medicine Underserved and Community Health Committee; she is also an HLC Peer Reviewer. Her research explores lifelong physical activity’s impact on health outcomes, the exercise–cognition relationship, and discrimination’s effects on health-related coping behaviors. With over 20 years of experience in synchronous and asynchronous teaching, she developed an online MS in Nutrition for Human Performance and champions collaborative, inclusive learning environments for students and faculty alike.

Dr. Lam is Professor and Director of the Department of Interdisciplinary Health Sciences at ATSU, with a BS in Athletic Training, an MEd in Human Movement, and an ScD focused on Movement Sciences—all from Boston University. He completed a postdoctoral fellowship in patient-oriented outcomes research at ATSU’s Center of Clinical Outcomes Studies. His current research examines how lower extremity sports injuries affect patient-oriented outcomes such as health-related quality of life. In addition to his teaching, Dr. Lam directs Faculty Advancement and Mentoring for Excellence (FAME), leads the Athletic Training Practice-Based Research Network (AT-PBRN), and serves as vice chair of ATSU-Mesa’s Institutional Review Board. He sits on the NATA Foundation’s Research Committee and Athletic Training Research Committee, and he is on the editorial boards of the Journal of Athletic Training and Journal of Sport Rehabilitation. A 2022 Fellow of the National Athletic Trainers’ Association, he practiced as a certified athletic trainer at Boston University, Rutgers–New Brunswick, and MIT before joining ATSU.

Dr. Normore serves as Chief Diversity Officer and Instructor at ATSU, having previously been Vice President for Diversity & Inclusion and the inaugural director of diversity since 2013. He oversees a comprehensive initiative spanning ATSU’s seven graduate health professions schools (Kirksville, St. Louis, Mesa, Santa Maria, and online), extending into community health centers to advance ATSU’s mission of serving underserved populations. A 2015 NIMHD Scholar, he is trained as a Civil Rights Investigator (ATIXA), Campus Security Authority, and Safe Zone Master Trainer. Under his leadership, ATSU earned the HEED Award for inclusive excellence from 2017–2024; he has embedded cultural proficiency across curricula and campus culture. Before ATSU, he was Director of Multicultural Student Affairs at Oklahoma City University (2001–2013), where he supervised international student life, advised student organizations, and created scholarship and bridge programs that improved retention and graduation. Dr. Normore has delivered national workshops on diversity, serves as faculty at ATSU’s Missouri and Arizona dentistry schools, and is active in Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., chairing its community-oriented policing committee. His diverse background includes roles as a police officer, business owner, teacher, coach, and member of the 1988 University of Kansas national championship basketball team. He holds an EdD from ATSU, an MBA from Oklahoma City University, and a BS from the University of Central Oklahoma.

Dr. Sexton is the Associate Dean for medical education and tenured professor for ATSU-Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine’s Department of Family Medicine. Dr. Sexton earned a Bachelor's degree in Biology from Rockhurst University, a Master's degree in Molecular Microbiology from the University of Missouri School of Medicine, and a Doctoral degree in Medical Education from ATSU. She was founder and an inaugural member of the National Academy of Osteopathic Medical Education and continues as an active fellow. Additionally, she completed the American Osteopathic Association Osteopathic Heritage Foundation Health Policy Fellowship. Dr. Sexton currently serves on the Arnold P. Gold Foundation Board and the Gold Humanism Honor Society Advisory Council. She has served on the AACOM Professionalism and Ethics Task Force, the Project on Empathy in Osteopathic Medical Education, and many others. Most recently she has consulted for the Michigan State College of Osteopathic Medicine Institute for Global Health in areas of Curriculum and Assessment and Faculty Development.

Ms. Taylor is a Licensed Professional Counselor (GA, MI, AZ), Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (CA), Clinical Mental Health Counselor (UT), and National Certified Counselor with over a decade of experience in inpatient psychiatric, community-based, and higher education behavioral health settings. She holds an MS in Counseling and Certifications in Multiple Treatment Modalities. Throughout her career, she has supported young adults, adults, and families facing obsessions, compulsions, mood and personality disorders, anxiety and trauma, addictive behaviors, conduct disorders, abuse, anger and stress management, teen issues, relational problems, dating violence, self-harm, criminal thinking, and more. Her therapeutic approach is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, supplemented by Person-Centered, Psychodynamic, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI). Emphasizing the mind-body-spirit connection, she helps clients replace irrational thoughts with healthier alternatives and believes that hope and tools for change are keys to transformative growth.

Dr. Konecny joined ATSU in 2005, working in the Department of Student Affairs. In 2009, she transitioned to a full-time faculty member position for A.T. Still University's College of Graduate Health Studies (ATSU-CGHS). As a full-time faculty member, Dr. Konecny teaches and designs didactic courses for the Master of Education in Health Professions and Doctor of Education in Health Professions programs. She also serves as doctoral research project chair for students in the Doctor of Education program.

Dr. Konecny has contributed to peer-reviewed and professional literature as an author, co-author, and peer reviewer. She has also been a presenter and held leadership roles in professional organizations. Dr. Konecny serves on several ATSU and CGHS committees and work groups. Dr. Konecny's research interests include the development, implementation, and evaluation of innovative teaching methodologies and introducing new technologies to enhance curriculum delivery and student learning; exploring ways to improve student wellness within various and diverse populations; exploring the practical application of health education behavior theories and the educational aspects of health promotion; examining learning theory in relation to online and residential instructional design; and assessing the effect and value of student services for the online learner.

Dr. Konecny holds a Doctor of Health Science degree from Nova Southeastern University and a Doctor of Health Education degree from ATSU-CGHS. She obtained her Master of Science degree in counseling/student personnel services from Emporia State University and a Bachelor of Science in behavioral psychology from Northern Michigan University. Dr. Konecny is a Master Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES). She also held certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor credentials for about 20 years. Dr. Konecny is a former Major in the U.S. Army Reserves and an Army veteran who served in Saudi Arabia during Operation Desert Storm.

Presley Melvin-Dean is an academic advisor at the College of Graduate Health Studies, where she supports students across a variety of graduate-level programs. She was born and raised in Quincy, Illinois, a river town located about two hours north of St. Louis.

Presley earned her Bachelor's degree in Justice Systems from Truman State University, initially planning to pursue a career in law enforcement. However, life presented a different opportunity. After marrying her college sweetheart, she moved to Kansas City and worked as a security guard for the Kansas City Royals. This formative experience reshaped her perspective and sparked an appreciation for not planning life too much.

Presley and her husband later returned to their alma mater, so he could pursue his dream of coaching women's basketball at the collegiate level. This transition opened the door for Presley to begin her career in academic advising. During this time, she also earned a Master's degree in Leadership and a Master's in Public Health, all while growing her family and becoming a mother of two.

Presley is passionate about making a meaningful impact in every role she holds. She takes pride in doing her job well, helping others, and contributing in ways that matter.

In her free time, though it is a rarity these days, she enjoys taking walks with her new dog and savoring a well-earned cup of hot coffee.

Dr. Anderson is an educator, social worker, and public health professional with over 20 years of experience in higher education, health professions training, and community health. She currently serves as Associate Professor of Public Health and Director of Community Oriented Primary Care at A.T. Still University-School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona (ATSU-SOMA). Dr. Anderson is also an advocate, researcher, published author, and dedicated mentor. Her research focuses on educator and staff well-being, social determinants of health, and structural inequities in medical education.

Dr. Gardner is the Associate Dean of Academics, Assessment, and Curricular Innovation of the College of Graduate Health Studies at A.T. Still University. She previously served as the Associate Chair of the Department of Health Studies at American University. Dr. Gardner has over 25 years of experience in higher education. She earned a Doctorate in Community Health Education and Health Services Administration from The Ohio State University, and she is certified as a Health Education Specialist. Additionally, she holds a Master of Arts degree in Health Promotion Management from Ohio State and a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Iowa State University. Dr. Gardner’s academic and research interests include public health and health services education and curriculum development; health behavior change initiatives; and, issues associated with stress, loss, and grief.

Dr. McGrew serves as the Assistant Director for Diversity & Inclusion at A.T. Still University of Health Sciences, where she leads innovative initiatives that expand access to health professions education and strengthen pathways for students from historically underserved communities. She is the director of Dreamline Pathways™, a nationally recognized pathway program that connects K-12 students to careers in healthcare through immersive learning, mentorship, and strategic partnerships.

Dr. McGrew brings a dynamic blend of experience in public health, education, and entrepreneurship, with a strong focus on building sustainable, community-centered programs that create long-term impact. Her work has been recognized nationally, including receiving the UPCEA Leadership in Diversity and Inclusive Excellence Award, and she actively collaborates with institutions and organizations across the country to advance inclusive excellence in STEM and health professions education.

As a mentor in the FLARE Fellowship, Dr. McGrew is passionate about supporting emerging faculty, clinicians, and leaders as they navigate their academic and professional journeys. The fellowship is designed to foster leadership, resilience, and inclusive teaching practices within health professions education. She is committed to creating spaces where scholars feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive, while also challenging them to think critically, lead authentically, and contribute meaningfully to the future of healthcare and education.

Outside of her academic role, Dr. McGrew is an entrepreneur and community advocate, dedicated to creating opportunities that uplift individuals and strengthen communities. Her work is rooted in the belief that access, mentorship, and intentional design can transform lives and redefine what is possible.