Faculty Profiles

Aimee Sever-Hall, MA

Assistant Professor, ASL & Interpreting

Aimee Sever-Hall is a proud deaf Latinx and Indigenous person who is a first-generation American, a first-generation collegian, and believes in fighting for social justice and human rights. As a program coordinator, she is an ASL and interpreting department faculty and oversees the American Sign Language (ASL) program. Before joining St. Catherine University, she was a professor at the University of Iowa, Gallaudet University, and Towson University for ten years, teaching various ASL, linguistics, deaf studies, and core courses. 

A curriculum specialist, Aimee focuses primarily on diversity, equity, and inclusion for underrepresented students with her teaching/learning materials and includes multicultural dispositions in her classrooms.

Alicia Stock

Director of Clinical Education, Assistant Professor, Respiratory Care

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Allison Scheel, MSW, LGSW

MSW Director of Field Education and Assistant Professor

Allison Scheel earned her undergraduate BA degree in Psychology from the University of Minnesota and her MSW from Augsburg College. She joined the St. Catherine University BSW Social Work Department in 2019 as the BSW Director of Field Education and in 2020, she stepped into the MSW Field Director. Allison currently teaches field seminar courses and has taught a MSW diversity and inequality course at Augsburg College. She has over 25 years of experience in the social work sector engaging in community practice work as a program manager at Goodwill Easter Seals and Neighborhood House agencies.

Allyson Green, MS, MS

Assistant Professor, Public Health

Educator, organizer, and gardener with experience at the intersections of environmental justice, environmental health, food systems, sustainability, and civic engagement.
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Alyssa Farrell MS, OTR/L

Assistant Professor, Academic Fieldwork Coordinator, OTA Online

Alyssa Farrell works at St. Catherine University as an Assistant Professor and Academic Fieldwork Coordinator in the Occupational Therapy Assistant Program.

Alyssa has been a practicing OT since 2009. She graduated with a Master's of Science degree in Occupational Therapy in 2009 from Grand Valley State University in Grand Rapids, MI.

For the first 7 years of her career, she worked in various acute care hospital settings focusing her research on early mobilization in the ICU. She transitioned into an outpatient pediatric clinic in December 2015 until December 2019 before accepting a full time Assistant Professor position at St. Catherine University in December 2019.

Ambria Crusan, PhD, MS, RD/LD

Assistant Professor, Exercise Science and Nutrition, Nutrition Science, Dietetics

Ambria started teaching at St. Kate's in 2017. After working as a Clinical Dietitian for 4 years, she pursued her PhD in Human Nutrition and a career in academia. She is a Registered Dietitian passionate about nutrition assessment, diet quality, and obesity-related inflammation. Her current research is focused on carotenoids and markers of adiposity in population samples. Ambria is involved in many Interprofessional Education (IPE) opportunities as she hopes to promote the field of dietetics in these settings and finds high value in IPE collaboration for students.
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Amy Bowers, MSN, RN

Assistant Professor, Nursing

Amy M. Bowers MSN, RN is an Assistant Professor of Nursing in the Baccalaureate Day Program at St. Catherine.  She obtained a bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center and a Master’s degree in Nursing Education from St. Catherine University.  Amy’s clinical background covers various areas of nursing including work in Medical Surgical, Emergency Department, Post-Partum, Newborn Nursery, Birthing and Lactation Education, Long term care, Pharmacy medication audits.  Her teaching interests include Education for Mothers and children concerning what it takes to thrive in their situation in life and care of medical and surgical adults with a focus on women.

Amy Hamlin, PhD

Associate Professor , Art and Art History

Amy K. Hamlin is an Associate Professor in the Department of Art and Art History, where she teaches across the art history curriculum. Hamlin holds a PhD in art history from the Institute of Fine Arts at New York University, an MA in art history from Williams College, and a BA in art history from Vassar College. She is the author of essays on the work of Max Beckmann, Jasper Johns, William H. Johnson, and Kara Walker. In 2014, she cofounded with Karen J. Leader the project Art History That, which aims to curate, crowdsource, and collaborate on the future of art history. Between 2016 and 2019, she served as the inaugural Alberta Huber, CSJ, Endowed Chair in the Liberal Arts and Director of the Evaleen Neufeld Initiative in the Liberal Arts.

Amy Hilden, PhD

Associate Professor, Philosophy

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Amy Kelly, MD, MPH

Medical Director for PA

Amy M. Shaw, MLIS, MM

Head of Archives and Special Collections / Associate Professor, Library

I became Head of Archives and Special Collections in 2019, my 25th year at St. Kate's. (Prior positions included Systems Librarian and Performing Arts Librarian.) The Archives and Special Collections department encompasses historical university records, manuscript collections, rare books, and several thousand physical objects. My research and creative activity reflect the archivist's interest in primary sources as well as my subject area of music. In the field of music, I am particularly interested in the history of musical instruments and in the traditional music of the Nordic countries, Ireland, Scotland, and Canada.

Ana Hawkins, MBA

Adjunct Faculty, Master of Business Administration

Ana Hawkins received her MBA from the Carlson School of Management with Honors. She comes to St. Catherine University with over 15 years in business, both in consulting and in strategy and marketing, with specific experience in industrial and healthcare markets leading innovation projects and launching them to the market. She is particularly proud of bringing an innovating product in Healthcare to the market called 3M™ Cavilon™ Advanced Skin Protectant from early stages to launch. Ana enjoys the passion and energy the students bring to the class and their interest in learning.
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Anaya Mitra, PhD, MPH

Associate Professor, Psychology

Anaya is associate professor of psychology at St. Catherine University. Her area of specialization is biological psychology and she received her doctorate from the University of Florida. Her doctoral work examined the impact of maternal obesity on fetal development, using a rodent model. She also holds a Master of Public Health degree from the University of Florida. Her master’s thesis examined smoking cessation outcomes at the local public health department, following dissemination of information regarding the adverse effects of smoking on one’s health and on one’s wallet. Following her doctoral work, she did a post-doctoral fellowship at the University of Minnesota and the Veterans Administration Medical Center.

Andrea Kalis, PhD

Associate Professor, Biology

I am interested in how genes regulate the development of specific cell fates in the model system C. elegans. My current research focuses on how Hox genes and their TALE co-factors regulate neuronal identity of male-specific ventral cord neurons. With this research project, I collaborate with undergraduate student researchers and include aspects of the project in upper-level Biology courses that I teach.
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Andrea Olson, PhD

Professor, Psychology

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Andrea Toft, MSN, RN

Assistant Professor, Nursing

Andrea has worked as a Critical Care Float Pool RN at the University of Minnesota Masonic Children's Hospital since 2016. In 2016, Andrea completed her Master's Degree in Nursing through Marquette University. She began teaching at St. Catherine University the fall of 2019 in the Baccalaureate Degree Program for the College for Women. During her time at St. Catherine University she has taught in the Pediatric courses, in both the classroom and clinical settings along with Nursing care of Individuals and families in the classroom and lab setting.
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Angela Burns, MS

Assistant Professor, Sonography

Angela Burns is the Clinical Coordinator for the echocardiography program at St. Catherine University. For over 19 years, she worked in the cardiovascular department at Mayo Clinic. She began her career as an exercise physiologist in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation before moving into echocardiography and then advanced cardiac sonography. Throughout her career, Angie has been involved in teaching, presenting and mentoring students. She holds a bachelor of science in physical education and a master of science in cardiac rehabilitation from the University of Wisconsin, La Crosse and is credentialed in Adult Cardiac Sonography and Advanced Cardiovascular Sonography.

Angela Ekwonye, PhD, CPH

Associate Professor of Public Health

Angela Ekwonye obtained her undergraduate degree in Biology and Education from the University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, her master's degree in Microbiology, and her Ph.D. in Health Sciences. Dr. Ekwonye's research interest lies heavily in the area of mental health promotion and prevention, with a specific focus on the mechanisms and factors of resiliency underlying the health of vulnerable and diverse populations in the face of social and economic adversity. My expertise includes a strong background in spirituality, meaning, aging, and mental health, with a particular interest in immigrant/refugee and other underserved populations.

Anne Maloney, PhD

Associate Professor, Philosophy

Anne M. Maloney received her Ph.D. in Philosophy from Marquette University in 1988. She is currently an Associate Professor of Philosophy at St. Catherine University in St. Paul, MN. Her areas of specialization include Philosophy of Women, Ethics, Philosophy and Literature, Philosophy of Religion, and Existentialism. She has published articles in Crisis Magazine, Human Life Review, and The Journal of Prolife Feminism. Also, she has contributed chapters to two books dealing with abortion and social ethics: Living With Contradictions: Controversies in Feminist Social Ethics, edited by Alison Jaggar, and Catholicism and Abortion: A New Generation of Catholic Response.

Anne Weyandt

Associate Professor, Education

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Anthony Molaro, PhD, MLIS

Associate Professor, MLIS Program

Anthony Molaro, Ph.D. Tony (he/him) is a nationally recognized speaker, teacher, and consultant in libraries and higher education.  He is an Associate Professor in the MLIS Program at St Catherine University. He teaches and researches in the areas of public libraries, public services, technology, leadership, management, and marketing.  His most recent publication examined declines in women in leadership in public libraries.  He is also interested in services and teaching for those experiencing mental health challenges and recently received a grant to deliver Mental Health First Aid training around the state.

Anupama Pasricha, PhD

Department Chair/Professor, Fashion Design and Merchandising

Personal evaluation and reflection deepens my sense of consciousness towards the mission and vision of St. Catherine University and the realization that I have embodied this mission and vision. St. Catherine University has given me inspiration, the opportunity to work with wonderful people, and helped me grow and flourish as an individual, educator, researcher, and servant leader. This growth has enabled me to bring forth progressive influence on my students, colleagues, and community. It has brought me bliss, triumph, and an empowerment to continue the journey. I am so proud of the diversity of our students, their aesthetics, inspirations, and designs which are shaped by the innovative curriculum we teach.

Arturo Sesma, PhD

Associate Professor, Psychology

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Ashley Borchardt, MSN, RN, AHN-BC

Assistant Professor, Nursing

Ashley is passionate about the holistic delivery of nursing care that transfers into her guidance of student nurses in both the College for Women and College for Adults. She received her Associate Degree in Nursing from Minneapolis Community and Technical College and her RN-BSN degree from Augsburg University. While attending Augsburg, she notes her public health coursework in Nicaragua was particularly impactful and strongly believes in the global impact of nursing on healing the world. She received her Master in Nursing Education from St. Catherine University and is interested in how nurses can maintain caring amidst a highly-technical care environment.

Ashley Phillips, PhD

Assistant Professor, Psychology

Ashley Singh, MS

Assistant Professor, Nursing

While earning my undergraduate nursing degree at SDSU I received a scholarships to study abroad in Sweden and study world maternal and child issues. I also obtained a degree in Spanish while attending SDSU where I received another scholarship to study Spanish in Mexico. After graduating, I worked on a medical unit at Avera St. Luke's, a rural hospital in Aberdeen, South Dakota. I was able to cross-train to pediatrics, surgical and outpatient units. I then accepted an RN position at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota on the bone marrow transplant unit.
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Beth Cunniff, MSN, RN, CNP, CNE

Assistant Professor, Nursing

Beth Cunniff is an assistant professor of nursing at St. Catherine University in the Baccalaureate Degree Program - College for Adults. She holds a BSN degree from Creighton University, an MSN-NP degree with a focus on Children with Special Healthcare Needs from the University of Minnesota, and an MSN-NE degree from St. Catherine University. Beth is currently a PhD student with a focus in Nursing Education at the University of Northern Colorado. Special areas of interest include pediatrics, curriculum design and evaluation, and simulation.
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Beth Meighan-Palanivel MA, BSN, CCAP

Assistant Professor, Nursing

Beth completed her BSN at Allen College in Waterloo, Iowa in 2008. In 2013, she received her MA in Holistic Health Studies from St. Catherine University. Beth has served on the Board of the Minnesota Holistic Nurses Association (one of the largest and oldest chapters of the American Holistic Nurses Association) since 2014. Additionally, Beth is a Certified Clinical Aromatherapy Practitioner (CCAP) and has training Healing Touch, Therapeutic Touch and Reiki. In 2020, Beth was awarded the Daisy Award for Extraordinary Nursing Faculty.
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Bethany Rahn, MFA

Assistant Professor, Art and Art History

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Bethsabe Huaman Andia, PhD

Assistant Professor. Literature, Language and Writing Department. Spanish Program

I am an Assistant Professor at St. Kate's in the department of Literature, Language and Writing, also affiliated to the Women's Studies Program. 
I am originally from Lima, Peru, where I studied Literature. I graduated from the Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos (UNMS) with a dissertation about the Peruvian poet Blanca Varela. I continued with the study of poetry among Peruvian female poets from 1980's generation in comparative research with Mexican female poets of the same generation. I graduated from El Colegio de Mexico (Colmex) with a dissertation about Coral Bracho and Rocío Silva Santisteban.

Brian Jonart, PT, DPT, NCS

Assistant Professor, Physical Therapist Assistant Program

As a practicing PT and Assistant Professor, I continue to be excited, challenged, and grateful to be in the PT profession. I teach primarily in St. Catherine University's PTA program, and teach in the DPT program as well. Clinically, I continue to practice at the Acute Rehab Unit at M Heath Fairview. My primary practice/teaching areas are Neuro/Orthopedic rehab. I also have a passion for health and wellness for the general population, healthcare provider, and patients with chronic medical conditions.
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Bridget Sabatke, MS, NIC-Master, EIPA 4.0, QMHI-S

Assistant Professor, ASL and Interpreting

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Candalee Hill MS, MAOL, RN, CNE-cl

Assistant Professor, Nursing

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Carey Winkler, MSW, DSW, LICSW

Assistant Professor, Social Work

I am passionate about co-creating transformative learning experiences that engage us all in growing, leading, and healing. Inspired by the words of the late Senator Paul Wellstone who said, "We all do better when we all do better," I am called to work towards all people being seen, heard, and felt in the world.
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Carol Chase, MFA

Associate Professor, Art and Art History

I am an artist that loves to teach. I teach all things two-dimensional here in the Art and Art History department at St. Kate's: drawing, painting and design.
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Carol Geisler, PhD, RN

Associate Professor, Master of Arts in Holistic Health Studies

I have been teaching and serving as the Research Coordinator in the Master of Arts in Holistic Health Studies since 2004 and have guided over 250 graduate students in completing a Master's thesis of their own choosing. Personally, I have been interested in the interconnections between mind, body, and spirit since I was a young child. My life journey has taken me on an interesting and ever-evolving path where I have studied nursing, counseling, psychology, spirituality, energy healing, plants as medicine, soul purpose, ritual, death & dying, meditation, collaboration, and research as part of my own lifelong integrative health journey.

Carol Mager, MS

Assistant Professor, Fashion Design and Merchandising

I am an unconventional instructor. I worked in the fashion industry for 20+ years before coming to love teaching! I have designed and made industrial patterns for womenswear, menswear, and outerwear. My specialty is production quality pattern making, grading, and curating student collections. The courses I teach are: Apparel Construction & Analysis, Patternmaking, Advanced Construction, Collection Development, and Capstone Collection. I love working with individual students helping them grow their talents. Teaching and designing are my passions!
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Caroline Krafft, PhD

Associate Professor of Economics

Caroline Krafft is an economist specializing in development economics, primarily labor, education, health, and inequality in the Middle East and North Africa. She collaborates with St. Kate’s students, international non-governmental organizations, and a global network of scholars in her research. Current projects include work on early childhood development, labor market dynamics, life course transitions, human capital accumulation, and fertility. Caroline teaches courses in economics and statistics, and serves as the program director for the Women and International Development major. She is particularly interested in how economics can help societies understand and address social issues, and is writing a textbook on that topic.

Carrie Marzolf, MSPA, PA-C

Assistant Professor, Physician Assistant Studies

Carrie Marzolf joined the St. Catherine University Physician Assistant Program in 2018. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a Bachelor of Science degree in Life Science Communications in 2002. She received her Master of Physician Assistant Studies from the University of New England in 2007. Her clinical experience is primarily in hospital medicine.

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Cassandra Donahue

Assistant Professor, Radiation Therapy

As the Clinical Coordinator for the radiation therapy program, I am passionate about educating and mentoring students to become high quality radiation therapists. I take pride in what I do because I know that at the completion of our program, our students are well prepared for a rewarding career in radiation oncology.
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Catherine Graeve, PhD

CFA Program Director, Associate Professor, Nursing

Catherine Graeve is an Associate Professor in the College for Adults. She has taught global health, community health, mental health, and holistic care of the older adult. Catherine also works as a Hospice Nurse. She has nursing experience in public health, oncology, bone marrow transplant and hospice. She is currently a mentor for the Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments (ANHE). She is on the policy committee for the Minnesota Cancer Alliance. Catherine has also worked as a community liaison for a research effort to better understand how environmental factors affect health beginning before birth.

Catherine M. Kelly, PhD

Associate Professor, Education

Catherine M. Kelly, Associate Professor of Education at St. Catherine University, teaches undergraduate and graduate courses in literacy methods and children's literature, content area literacy, research methods, and assessment in addition to supervising practicum and student teaching experiences. Her research interests focus on effective preparation of and induction for elementary teachers particularly for diverse school contexts. She holds current Minnesota teaching licenses in Elementary Education K-6, Reading K-12, and English as a Second Language K-12.
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Catherine Sullivan, PhD

Associate Professor, Occupational Therapy

Dr. Sullivan is a tenured Associate Professor in the Department of Occupational Therapy. Her past and present teaching areas have included Kinesiology, Neuroscience, Research and Gerontology. Her primary areas of research, practice and advocacy are in gerontology, with a focus on safe mobility within the home and the community, and on promoting quality of life through continued participation in the arts and other valued occupations. Her recent projects have focused on statewide initiatives to improve older driver safety and transition to alternative community mobility options. She also has an ongoing partnership with Rebuilding Together Twin Cities to develop and implement assessments and interventions to improve safety within the home for low income homeowners.

Chris Purfeerst, MA, RN

Assistant Professor, Nursing

Chris Purfeerst has been a faculty member of the nursing program since January of 2008, and prior to that as an adjunct clinical instructor beginning in 2003. She has taught in several nursing fundamentals and clinical courses in the department, most recently in N3800 & N3810, and has practice expertise in adult medical-surgical nursing. She has ten years of experience working as a RN at the University of Minnesota Medical Center, Fairview hospital on an adult medicine unit (2002-2012). She has been recognized as a Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) specializing in knowledge, skill, and excellence in practice (2012-2017).

Christina Anderson, PT, DPT

Director of Clinical Education, Associate Professor, Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

Christina Anderson joined the DPT faculty in 2013 as Assistant Professor and Director of Clinical Education. She is a graduate of the Physical Therapy Program at St. Catherine University, receiving her Master of Physical Therapy degree in 2001 and returning to complete her transitional Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 2010. She holds a bachelor’s degree from St. Olaf College. Dr. Anderson is currently pursuing an EdD degree from Bethel University.

Dr. Anderson practiced clinically for 12 years in the areas of acute care, home care, and geriatrics. She has worked closely with DPT students in various capacities including ICE Clinical Faculty, Clinical Instructor, Site Coordinator of Clinical Education, and now as the Director of Clinical Education.

Christina Cyrus, DNP

Assistant Professor, Nursing

Experience teaching lab, simulation, and clinical courses in Introduction to Nursing Science and Practice with a focus on introductory nursing skills and critical thinking, as well as Family Centered and Population Focused Care with a focus on the pediatric content.

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner at Bear Care Clinic (Rise Up Health Clinics) as part of faculty work load providing sports physicals, immunizations, acute illness diagnosis and management, and nutrition counseling.
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Christopher Jordan, PhD

Assistant Professor, Chemistry

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Christopher Kopp, MAED

Clinical Coordinator, Instructor, Sonography

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Colleen Carpenter, PhD

Professor, Theology and Women's Studies

Carondelet Scholar
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Cort Cieminski, PT, PhD, ATC, LAT

Program Director, Professor, Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

Dr. Cort Cieminski, PT, PhD, LAT is a professor and Program Director in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at St. Catherine University. He is a graduate of the University of North Dakota, receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Therapy in 1988. He received a Master of Science degree in Exercise and Sports Studies from Boise State University in 1992 and his PhD in Rehabilitation Science, with an emphasis in biomechanics, in 2007 from the University of Minnesota. He is also a Certified Athletic Trainer and is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association, National Athletic Trainer’s Association, and the International Society of Biomechanics.

Craig Kage, PT, DPT

Assistant Professor, Physical Therapy

Craig Kage, PT, DPT is an assistant professor at St. Catherine University in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program. He graduated from the University of Wisconsin in 2008 (Bachelor of Science - Kinesiology) and 2011 (Doctor of Physical Therapy). He is currently a PhD candidate in the Rehabilitation Science program at the University of Minnesota with a research focus in cervical spine kinematics. He is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association and the American Society of Biomechanics. Dr. Kage's scholarship is in the area of spine biomechanics and he has presented his research at local and national conferences.

Craig Roger, MBA

Associate Professor & Chair, Business Administration

Professor Roger currently serves as chair of the undergraduate business department and teaches primarily in accounting and business analytics. Professor Roger worked professionally in both accounting roles and systems analyst roles prior to starting his 30-year teaching career, completing the most recent 20 years at St. Kate's.
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Cuc Kim Vu, MS

Assistant Professor, Biology

Cuc Kim Vu has taught at St. Catherine University since 2000. She teaches various biology courses (Anatomy and Physiology, Human Disease, and Microbiology), foundational courses (math, study skills, computer skills), and inter-professional courses (Core Integrated Learning, CIL). Her area of research is in biology education, with a focus on equity and inclusion in STEM Education. One of Cuc Kim Vu's current projects is on Critical Skills Integration (CSI-StKate's) with General Anatomy and Physiology.
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Cynthia Dols Finn, MN, DNP, PHN, CNE, AHN-BC, CHTP/A

Associate Professor of Nursing

Cynthia is faculty in the College for Adults Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing (BSN CFA), Masters of Science in Nursing Entry Level (MSNEL) and the Doctor of Nursing Program (DNP).  She is an Associate Professor at St. Catherine University and has been on the nursing faculty since fall 1999. She assisted in the development of a Unitary Human Caring Science BSN curriculum, which includes integrative and cultural healthcare curricular components. She is active in promoting healthy learning environments built upon safe interpersonal behaviors. She completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice at St. Catherine University.

Cynthia Graham, MA, MLIS

Assistant Professor, Library

Cindy Graham is a health sciences librarian, working with students and faculty. In this capacity, she builds collections of books, journals, and electronic resources to meet the needs of health sciences programs. Cindy's research interests include health sciences collection management and conducting and teaching students to conduct systematic reviews. She has a BA in Architectural Studies, an MA in Library and Information Science, and most recently, an MA in Holistic Health Studies.
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Cynthia Norton, PhD

Professor of Biology and Women's Studies; Director of Collaborative Undergraduate Research

Cindy Norton is an evolutionary biologist with broad interests in the intersections of ecology, evolution and behavior. She studies reproduction, growth, and development of the freshwater snail Planorbella (Helisoma) trivolvis as a model for understanding the life history, reproductive biology and behavior of hermaphrodites. Students actively collaborate in all aspects of the research – from conception of projects, data collection and analysis to presentation at both local and national conferences. Dr. Norton has been a faculty member at St. Kate’s since 1990, teaching courses in both Biology and Women’s Studies including: Foundations of Biology I, Evolutionary Biology, Animal Behavior, Biology of Women, and Foundations of Women’s Studies, as well the interdisciplinary collaboration Discovering the History of Evolutionary Thought: Darwin in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands during January.

Damon Klaphake, MS

Assistant Professor, Liberal Arts and Sciences

I have taught Human Anatomy and Physiology, Human Disease, Human Ecology, Microbiology, Chemistry, College Study Skills, Transcultural Communication, and Dosage Calculations Math at St. Catherine University since 1997. I am a member of the Biology Department and primarily teach courses to students in the College for Adults.
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Darla Coss, OTD, OTR/L, CHT

Associate Professor, Occupational Therapy

Darla joined the OCTH department at St. Catherine University full time in August of 2016. In addition to clinical expertise in areas of hand therapy and industrial rehabilitation, Darla has spent the past few years exploring the effects a cancer diagnosis has on one’s ability to participate fully in life. She is an active member and educator at Gilda’s Club Twin Cities, helping those living with cancer-related issues like fatigue and cognitive changes return to the activities they want and need to do.
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Daron E Janzen, PhD

Professor, Chemistry

Daron Janzen is a Professor and Carondelet Scholar in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. He received his Ph.D. in the area of Inorganic chemistry. He routinely teaches General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry laboratory courses, and Advanced Inorganic Chemistry. Professor Janzen’s research foci include coordination chemistry and organometallic chemistry, X-ray crystallography, green chemistry, materials chemistry, and laboratory curriculum development. All of his scholarship involves collaborative undergraduate research, with students at St. Kate’s as well as numerous faculty and students from other Primarily Undergraduate Institutions.

David Chapman, PT, PhD

Professor, Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

Dr. David Chapman, PT, Ph.D. is an associate professor and Co-Chair of the IRB at St. Catherine University. He is a graduate of the University of Iowa where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in exercise science and secondary education in 1980. He received a Master of Science degree in Physical Education/Adapted Physical Education with an emphasis in measurement from Southern Illinois University-Carbondale in 1984. He completed his doctor of philosophy degree at Indiana University in Human Performance and Developmental Psychology in 1999 as well as his physical therapy degree in 2000.

David Lesniaski, DMA, MLS

Associate Professor, Library and Information Science

I came to St. Catherine University in 2004 from St. Olaf College where, as a member of the library faculty, I served in several different positions, including Co-College Librarian, Collection Development Librarian, and Catalog Librarian during my 15-year career there. I also had a Fulbright grant to travel to Greece in 1995 to help with the development of a research-level music library in Athens. Before I arrived at St. Olaf I had several short-term positions in many different libraries, including the University of Minnesota (where I cataloged Polish and Ukrainian archival material), the Minnesota Senate Index, and Minneapolis Public Library.

Deborah Madanayake, PT, JD, GCS, CLT, CEEAA

Assistant Professor, Physical Therapy

Deborah Madanayake is a 1986 graduate of the College of St. Scholastica with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Physical Therapy. She is certified as a Geriatric Clinical Specialist through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties. Deborah earned a Juris Doctor degree from William Mitchell College of Law in 2005. She holds certifications as a lymphedema therapist and an exercise expert for aging adults. She is continuing her lifelong education as a student in the Doctor of Bioethics program at Loyola University. Deborah joined the DPT faculty in 2006 where she teaches course content in geriatric physical therapy, ethics, legal issues, and practice management.

Deborah St. Anthony, DNP, MEd, BSN, RN, AGCNS-BC

Assistant Professor, Nursing

I started my teaching career at The College of St. Catherine Minneapolis in the Associate Degree Nursing Program. Since then I have been in nursing education for 29 years and completed a DNP degree from the University of Minnesota in May, 2020. I am Board Certified as an Advanced Practice Adult/Geriatric Clinical Nurse Specialist, AGCNS-BC. I am a new Assistant Profession in the Department of Nursing in the College for Adults. I am happy to be back and feel like I have come back home!
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Deep Shikha

Professor, Economics and Political Science

Deep Shikha, Ph.D. is Professor of Economics at St. Catherine University. Previously, she served as the associate dean for the School of Business and Leadership, Economics Department Chair, coordinator for the Center for Women, Economic Justice, and Public Policy. Her major fields of expertise are in financial economics, resource economics, gender economics, and quantitative business analysis. She has several workshop/presentations to her credit, and has authored/co-authored several articles. Recently, she has presented several workshops on the global financial climate. Dr. Shikha has almost 35 years experience, primarily in the area of education.

Diane Fittipaldi, MBA, EdD

MBA Program Director, Assistant Professor, Business Administration

Diane Fittipaldi, MBA, EdD. joined St. Catherine University in 2015 and serves as the Director of the MBA Program and Assistant Professor. As a practitioner and an academic, Dr. Fittipaldi brings a rare blend of experience to our students giving them not only an understanding of theory but also the ways theory comes to life in practice. She completed my MBA from the University of Michigan in 1982 and spent 30 years in business, initially as a brand manager for General Mills and later as an advertising executive for two of the world's largest advertising agencies,BBDO and the McCann World group.

Dongfang (Julia) Hou, PhD

Assistant Professor, Economics and Political Science

Dorothea Hansmeyer, MS

Assistant Professor, Nursing

I earned my Masters in Nursing Leadership at St. Catherine University. This pilot program was a collaborative venture between the Masters of Organizational Leadership (MAOL) and the Nurse Educator departments. I was interested in learning from both of these educational departments in order to challenge myself as a leader and educator. I strive to align my professional beliefs with my personal MAOL Leadership Credo. These are based on my five core beliefs: 1. Listen with an open mind 2. Be Curious 3. Speak from your own voice 4. Be patient with your journey. I strive to treat people with dignity and respect, develop cooperative relationships, follow through on promises and commitments, praise people for a job well done and actively listen to diverse points of view.

Edie Wasyliszyn, MBA, CPA

Assistant Professor, Accounting

Edie Wasyliszyn teaches accounting in the College for Women and the College for Adults. She brings over 20 years of experience in business including management, public/ private/governmental/not for profit accounting. She has been teaching in higher education since 2011 and maintains an active CPA license in the State of Minnesota. She holds undergraduate degrees in accounting and social work and a graduate degree in business.
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Elizabeth M Allen, PhD, MPH

Associate Professor, Public Health

Dr. Elizabeth Allen holds a master’s degree in environmental health and a PhD in environmental epidemiology. In addition, she completed a post-doctoral fellowship focused on community engaged research methods to advance health equity and justice. Dr. Allen collaborates with students, international non-governmental organizations, and a global network of scholars in her research. Her work focuses on the impact of the environment on social, emotional, physical health.  Current projects include work on community health volunteer models, women’s empowerment in Peru, climate change, and social justice focused education.

Emily Asch, MLIS

Director, Library and Archives

Emily Asch, MLIS has enjoyed being the Director of Library and Archives since 2014. She came to St. Catherine University in 2008 as the Head of Technical Services. Her vision for the library is to be a space supporting and providing for interdisciplinary dialogue through resources, physical space, virtual presence, services, and staff. Student success is the primary focus of our work in the library, through research support, providing resources and tools wherever and whenever students and faculty need them. Emily has been in academic libraries for over 25 years and has a strong collections and systems background, but has had the privilege of supporting all parts of an academic library and is passionate about students and faculty succeeding in all academic and scholarly endeavors.

Emily Blanchard West

Professor, History

I am the editor of the Journal of Indo-European Studies. My complete cv is available here.

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Emily W. Nowak PhD, RN, CNE

Interim Assistant Dean for Online Nursing & Director- MSN: Nurse Educator - Professor

Professor Nowak is the Interim Assistant Dean for Online Nursing in the School of Nursing as well as the Program Director for the MSN: Nurse Educator program of study. She is a full Professor serving the St. Catherine community since 2009. Dr. Nowak completed a PhD at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee and her BAN from the College of St. Catherine (now St. Catherine University). As an undergraduate alum of the baccalaureate nursing program, Professor Nowak fully embraces the St. Catherine mission and values. Her work at St. Catherine has largely focused on developing and implementing nursing curriculum to reflect the rapidly changing landscapes of healthcare and education.

Erica Alley, PhD

Associate Professor, ASL and Interpreting

Erica Alley, Ph.D., NIC-Advanced, holds her degree in ASL/English Interpreting Research and Pedagogy from Gallaudet University. Erica has published and presented on the topics of video relay service, video remote interpreting, and interpretations of job interviews with deaf job applicants. Erica serves as the Program Director for the Master of Arts in Interpreting Studies and Communication Equity (MAISCE).
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Erick Agrimson, MS

Associate Professor, Physics

Professor Agrimson uses high altitude weather balloons as a delivery method to send up payload boxes with varied instrumentation to study near space. St. Kate’s has had balloons reach altitudes of up to 35,000 meters (~115,000 feet) depending on the size of balloon used and payload mass. One of the current projects involving collaborative undergraduate researchers is the study of the Regener-Pfotzer (R-P) maxima to study galactic cosmic ray showers. Agrimson holds a BS (with a concentration in space physics) from Augsburg College, an MS from the University of Iowa and has completed advanced coursework toward a PhD in plasma physics.

Erin Schumacher, PT, DPT

Assistant Director of Clinical Education, Assistant Professor, Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

Erin Schumacher, PT, DPT is the Assistant Director of Clinical Education and assistant professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at St. Catherine University. Erin is a graduate of Penn State University where she earned a Bachelors of Science degree in Kinesiology with a movement science emphasis. She received a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences in 2010. She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Education degree from Liberty University. Her areas of interest are in sustainability of clinical education and diversification of physical therapy education and practice.

Francine Conley, PhD

Professor, International Languages and Literature

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Gay M. Varecka, PhD, APRN, CNP

Associate Professor, Nursing

Gay M. Varecka, PhD, APRN, CNP is an Assistant Professor of Nursing in the DNP program. She obtained a BS in Nursing from D'Youville College, an MS in Nursing from the State University of New York, and a PhD in Higher Education Administration and Policy from the University of Minnesota. Gay also completed a post-doctoral certification as an Adult Nurse Practitioner. She has more than 25 years of experience in both Family Practice and Internal Medicine managing the care of underserved patients with complex, chronic health problems from ages 16 to the elderly in Hennepin Health System.

Gina Mancini-Samuelson, PhD

Professor, Chemistry

Professor Gina Mancini-Samuelson earned her Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry from the University of Minnesota. She has been teaching at St. Catherine University since 1996 where her primary teaching responsibilities are the analytical chemistry courses and the general chemistry for health sciences course. In 2008 she was recognized for outstanding teaching through the Teaching Excellence Award sponsored by the Myser Family Foundation, a great honor as nomination for this award comes from St. Catherine University alumna. She has directed over 20 undergraduate research projects ranging from analytical chemistry and materials science to environmental science.

Grace Gao, PhD, DNP, RN-BC, LHIT-HP, RWJF Future of Nursing Scholar Alumni

Associate Professor, Department of Nursing

Grace Gao earned her DNP degree in Nursing Informatics and Integrative Health, and PhD in Nursing from University of Minnesota. In addition, Grace is a public health nurse and ANCC certified Informatics Nurse. Grace has worked in a variety of roles in both public and private sectors across extensive health care settings, including case manager in home care, care plan coordinator in long-term care, staff nurse in hospital, nurse educator in the academic setting, and clinical informatics specialist and consultant.

Grace’s nursing experiences showcase expertise in public health, nursing informatics, and integrative health.

Gwendolyn (Gwen) Short, DNP, MSN, MPH

Associate Professor & DNP Programs Director, Nursing

Gwen is an Associate Professor and previous NP Programs Director at St. Catherine University. She holds a Doctor of Nurse Practice (DNP) degree from the University of Kentucky, where she was a member of the nation's inaugural DNP cohort. She also holds a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN) from the University of Kentucky, Master's in Public Health (MPH) from the University of Minnesota, and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Virginia. She has had clinical positions as a family nurse practitioner in a variety of practice sites including rural health, academic health, federally qualified health centers, and healthcare for the homeless and underserved.

Habiba Ibrahim, MSW, PhD

Assistant Professor, Social Work

Habiba Ibrahim joined St. Kates Social Work Department in August 2021. She earned Master of Social Work from Washington University in St. Louis and PhD in Public Policy Analysis from Saint Louis University. Her scholarship focuses on immigrants and refugees in the area of economic mobility and financial inclusion, health practices and health care services utilization, resettlement experiences, and international Social Work. Dr. Ibrahim's work examines the role of institutions and policies in enabling low-income households gain self-reliance through structured support. She has over 15 years of Social Work research and practice in community development, policy analysis and school social work.

Hannah Y. Oldenburg, EdD, OTR/L, BCPR

Assistant Professor & Academic Fieldwork Coordinator, Occupational Therapy

Hannah Oldenburg, EdD, OTR/L, BCPR is an assistant professor and Academic Fieldwork Coordinator (AFWC) in the Department of Graduate Occupational Therapy at St. Catherine University.  She teaches courses primarily in evidence based practice, adult rehabilitation, program evaluation, and educational methods in both entry-level masters and doctoral degree tracks. She coordinators and prepares graduate occupational therapy therapy students for Level I and Level II fieldwork experiences. She facilitates problem based learning sessions and advises students in preparation for entry-level doctoral capstone projects.

Heather Beth Johnson MS OTR/L

Assistant Professor, OTA Online

Heather "Beth" Johnson obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in Rehabilitation Studies in 2002 and her Master of Science degree in Occupational Therapy in 2007. She is currently enrolled in a Post Professional Occupational Therapy Doctorate with an expected graduation date of May 2022. She began working as an occupational therapist (OT) in 2007 in a skilled nursing facility. In 2014, she obtained my first position in academia as an OTA program director. She completed the Accreditation Council for Occupational Therapy Education (ACOTE) re-accreditation requirements for that program. In 2015, Beth was offered the opportunity to become the founding program director of an OTA program in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Heather Carroll, MLIS

Adjunct Faculty

Heather KT Bidinger, MMS, PA-C, DFAAPA

Founding Program Director, Assistant Professor, Physician Assistant Studies Program

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Hella Cohen, PhD

Associate Professor, English

Hella Cohen specializes in postcolonial literature and theory, Anglophone global writing, and Israel-Palestine studies. She teaches courses cross-listed with Critical Studies of Race and Ethnicity, and Women's Studies. She studied English and Political Science as an undergraduate, and obtained her masters degree in English and American literature thereafter. As a doctoral student, her primary concentration was modern and contemporary literature of the Commonwealth and liberated British colonies, and her secondary concentration was eighteenth- and nineteenth-century British imperialist literature.

Hilda Soko, DNP

Assistant Professor, Nursing

Hilda Soko is an assistant professor of nursing at St. Catherine University in the Baccalaureate Degree Program - College for Adults. She holds an Associate of Nursing degree from St. Catherine University, BSN degree from Metrostate University, MSN-Nurse Educator degree from St. Catherine University, and a DNP in Transcultural Nursing Leadership from Augsburg University. Before coming to the US, Hilda was a Nurse/Midwife in her birth country Malawi. She has experience in mental health (geriatric psychiatry). Hilda also works as a Psych Nurse at Mercy hospital (Unity campus).
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Holly Clynch, PT, DPT, MA

Professor, Physical Therapist Assistant

Faculty member at St. Catherine University since 1998, PTA program director since 2015. Currently also serving as president of the Minnesota Physical Therapy Association. Teaching/scholarship interests include regulatory issues, leadership, and geriatric physical therapy.
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Holman Tse, PhD

Assistant Professor of Language Studies, Dept. of Literature, Language, and Writing

Holman Tse is a linguist who specializes in sound change in language contact settings. For example, his current research focuses on English influence (as well as lack of influence) on vowel pronunciation patterns among bilingual Cantonese heritage speakers in Toronto, Canada. At St. Kate’s, Dr. Tse teaches general linguistics and sociolinguistics courses for the Language Studies Program. These courses are part of the “language” part of the Department of Literature, Language, and Writing (formerly Dept. of English and International Languages). Dr. Tse also teaches a section of Global Search for Justice (CORE 3990W) focusing on Language as a Human Right.

Hugo Klaers, DPT, OCS

Assistant Professor, Physical Therapy

Dr. Hugo Klaers, DPT, OCS is an assistant professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy Program at St. Catherine University. He is a graduate of the University of Minnesota, receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology in 2010. He received a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from St. Catherine University in 2014, and completed the Fairview Health Services Orthopedic Physical Therapy residency program in 2015. He became a board-certified specialist in orthopedic physical therapy in 2016. He is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association. Dr. Klaers has journal publications in the area of the athletic shoulder, has taught continuing education courses for local physical therapists and other allied health professionals, and has presented at the APTA's national annual conference.

Hui Wilcox, PhD

Professor, Sociology

Born and raised in a rapidly changing China, Hui Wilcox received her Ph.D. in Sociology in 2004 from the University of Minnesota. Since then, she has been teaching at St. Catherine University and dancing/researching with Ananya Dance Theatre, a Twin Cities-based dance company based that has built a transnational women-of-color feminist contemporary dance aesthetics. Her research has been focused on sociology of dance especially in connection to immigrant identities, race/ethnicity, multiculturalism, and transnational feminism. She has also published research in critical food studies, feminist pedagogy/epistemology, and East African cultural studies.

Jacqueline Parr, MS

Assistant Professor, Fashion Design and Merchandising

Jacqueline Parr is an Assistant Professor at St. Catherine University in the Fashion Design and Merchandising program. In addition, she is completing her Ph.D at The University of Minnesota in Retail Merchandising and Consumer Studies. Prior to her current position, Jacqueline received her Masters in Merchandising from the University of North Texas and Bachelors in Fashion Merchandising from Texas Christian University. Her professional experience includes positions held at Neiman Marcus as an Assistant Buyer in Men’s Couture Clothing and as a vendor account manager for Wal-mart Accessories.

James Johanning, MPAS, PA-C

Assistant Professor, Physician Assistant Studies

Professor James Johanning, MPAS, PA-C is an assistant professor at St. Catherine University in the Physician Assistant Program, a graduate degree path in the Henrietta Schmoll School of Health. Johanning added St. Catherine University to his resume in May 2019 after celebrating his 20-year career anniversary as a Certified Physician Assistant. In addition to general medicine, his areas of expertise include all subspecialties of orthopedics and orthopedic surgery. Johanning's experience in general orthopedics, sports medicine, spine surgery and hand surgery -- highlights of his syllabi -- are also shared as part of his teaching and training experience at a variety of continuing medical education conferences.

Jan Lynch, MS, RN

Assistant Professor, Nursing

Jan joined the team at St. Kate's in January of 2022. She received her undergraduate degree (BSN) from Dickinson State University in Dickinson, ND (1997), and a graduate degree, (MS in Nursing), at the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks in 2008. Jan began her career as a nursing assistant in long-term care, then worked her way through college as an LPN, and finally graduated as an RN. Her career has included roles such as med nurse, charge nurse and manager in long-term care. Her acute care specialty is labor, delivery, post-partum and gynecological care, which she worked at for 12 years in 3 different states.

Jane Carroll, PhD

Professor, History

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Jane Savage

Admin Assist/Onboarding Spec.

Janelle Jones, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC

Assistant Professor, Nursing

Janet Dahlem, MA

Associate Professor, Master of Arts in Holistic Health Studies

Janet Dahlem, associate professor, educator-activist, came to SCU in 1990 serving as program director for 18 years.  My teaching/scholarship/service reflects the intersection of holistic health, social justice, transformative learning, community-engagement, feminism/gender justice, and environmental & food justice/injustice. It was an honor to lead the creative team that developed the Master of Arts in Holistic Health Studies in 2004. I was thrilled to be awarded the 2017 Sister Anne Joachim Moore Lectureship. Personally, I am grateful to use holistic therapies and integrative healing as the center of my health care for most of my adult life.

Janet Marinelli, MS

Assistant Professor, Holistic Health Studies

I am grateful to teach in the Master of Arts in Holistic Health Studies Program and have been doing so since its creation.  A highlight of my teaching career has been to lead the early collaborative development of curriculum that formed the foundation for Holistic Health Studies at St. Kate’s.  I have many interests, as our students do, including:  spirituality, energy healing, the arts and healing, women and myth, and Jungian psychology.  The overarching theme for my teaching is transformative process, and it is a joy for me to work with students as we explore at the edge of knowing.

Janie Felder-Walker, MBA

Adjunct Faculty, Master of Business Administration

Janie Felder-Walker comes to St. Catherine University with over 20 years of experience in the disciplines of retail and consumer healthcare, international business, and human capital. Her range of experience also includes consulting, new business development, healthcare, pharmacy, health plan, P&L, financial and pricing work. Janie earned her MBA at St. Catherine University with a concentration in Healthcare and her undergraduate degree from University of Minnesota-Twin Cities with a BS in Human Resources/Capital Development. Janie is particularly proud of building private label products and insourcing pharmacy and medical services in healthcare as well as developing innovative healthcare products for her clients.

Jayne Sparks, MS, RN, CNE, CCM

Assistant Professor, RN-BSN Program Director, Nursing

I am a two-time graduate of St. Kate's and have been teaching in the RN to BSN section of the Department of Nursing since 2013. The focus of my teaching is community health nursing and nursing leadership.
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Jean Omodt, DPT, MHS, PT

Associate Professor, Biology

I have treated patients as a physical therapist for more than 25 years, primarily working in Minnesota but also in California and Missouri. I have extensive experience treating patients in a variety of settings including acute care (hospital), long term care, home care, and outpatient. I attended graduate school at Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri where I received a Master of Health Science in Physical Therapy degree. After graduating in 1992, I accepted a full-time teaching position at St. Catherine University, where I helped develop the Master of Physical Therapy (MPT) Program.

Jeanne Bailey, PhD

Adjunct Faculty, Organizational Leadership

Dr. Jeanne Bailey is the founder of Convergence Consulting Partners. She brings with her 25 years of experience leading as a nonprofit CEO, teaching scientists and engineers to be leaders, and serving as a “thinking partner” for health center re-strategy and change. Dr. Bailey has been teaching for 12 years, and in 2021 was received the “Teacher of the Year” award given at St. Catherine University. She teaches Foundations of Leadership and Ethics and Advanced Principles of Leadership and Ethics in MAOL. She enjoys helping students develop a solid ability to translate theory into practice, as well as discover and apply their strengths and insights to make a difference in the world.

Jeff Johnson, PhD

Associate Dean of the School of Humanities, Arts, and Sciences & Associate Professor of Philosophy

Jeff Johnson's teaching and research engages issues in food ethics, environmental ethics, and animal ethics more broadly along with non-Eurocentric philosophical traditions (like Indigenous philosophies, Asian philosophies, and more). Jeff's graduate work engaged issues in philosophy of language and perception, ordinary language philosophy, and Wittgenstein. While he still teaches a couple of classes per year, Jeff transitioned into his current role as Associate Dean of the School of Humanities, Arts, & Sciences in June of 2020.

Jeff first started teaching in the St. Kate's Philosophy Department as an adjunct back in 2003.

Jen Kluck, MS, RN

Assistant Professor, NP Clinical Coordinator, Nursing

I am a St. Kate's graduate from 2011. I have a husband whom I garden with. I have a son attending the University of Madison, WI and I have a daughter in elementary school who keeps me on my toes! It's a busy life. I love teaching and am so happy to be here at St. Kates.
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Jennifer Andrews-Gonzaga, PA-C

Assistant Professor, Physician Assistant Studies

Jennifer is a clinical coordinator at the Physician Assistant Program at St. Catherine University. Her clinical background also includes a 16 year history of working at both Regions and Hudson Emergency Departments. In 2018, she switched her clinical practice to OB-GYN with MetroPartners. She enjoys having her clinical year PA students with her in the hospital. She is also working on her Master's in Holistic Health, and is enjoying her coursework, as an excellent adjunct to her clinical practice. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family.
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Jennifer Biggs, PT, PhD, MPH, CWS

Associate Professor, Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

Dr. Biggs is a graduate of the UW-Madison where she received a BS in Physical Therapy in 1997.  She received an MPH in Public Health Administration in 2002 and a PhD in Health Services Research in 2016, both from the School of Public Health at the University of Minnesota.  She is also a Clinical Wound Specialist through the American Board of Wound Management and she practiced extensively in this specialty area.  Dr. Biggs teaches course content in acute care, cardiopulmonary rehabilitation and wound management.  She also coordinates service learning within the DPT curriculum.  Dr. Biggs’ research interests include service delivery models in physical therapy and community based participatory research.

Jennifer Downs Man, PhD

Associate Professor, History

I am a Chinese historian with a research focus on the early modern period. I teach an introductory courses on East Asia, a series of three courses covering the entire scope of Chinese history from the Neolithic period to the present, an upper division course on women in Asia, and topics courses, such as Panda Diplomacy. My research, which explores famine policy and ideas about famine, focuses on the dynamic interaction between state institutions and rural society in Ming dynasty China (1368-1644). My work combines institutional and social history. The study of famine policy provides a way of exploring power relationships within local communities, how local elites interacted with the state apparatus, how interactions were affected during times of systemic stress, and how all of these relationships changed over time.

Jennifer Hutson PhD, OTR/L, ATP

Associate Professor, Occupational Therapy

Jennifer Hutson is an associate professor in the Department of Occupational Therapy at St. Catherine University.  She teaches courses primarily in assistive technology and adult rehabilitation in both day and hybrid formats.  She facilitates problem based learning sessions and advises students on evidence or research based Doctoral Capstone projects and Master's projects, covering a range of topics some of which include twenty-four hour postural care, seating and positioning for wheeled mobility, sleep and nighttime positioning.   From 2002-2021, Jennifer's clinical practice has been at Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare in the area of assistive technology, primarily seating and positioning.

Jessica Miehe, DNP

Assistant Professor, CFW Program Director, Nursing

Dr. Jessica Miehe's nursing career began in 2007 as a float pool nurse serving patients in many clinical areas with an expertise in critical care as emergency response nurse. During that time, she also was a member on the Nursing Practice Council with Allina Health, a nurse union steward, and clinical educator. She developed programs and education to improve potentially-preventable hospital readmissions. Jessica also has experience as a nurse consultant, clinic director, school nurse, and development and director of nursing of a new assisted living facility. Jessica transition into nursing education in 2013, developing clinical innovation and process quality improvement to strengthen education for nursing students.

Jessica Scholl, PTA, MA

Director of Clinical Education and Assistant Professor, Physical Therapist Assistant Program

I have been with St. Catherine University since 2005. My clinical background is in outpatient orthopedics. In addition to teaching, I serve as the Director of Clinical Education for the Physical Therapist Assistant Program. My areas of scholarship include intraprofessional teaming in physical therapy and leadership.
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Jill Campbell, MA, RN, PHN, CNE, CDCES

Assistant Professor of Nursing

Jill began her nursing career as a registered nurse on a cardiac care unit at Abbott Northwestern Hospital from 2006 to 2010. In addition to providing patient care, she participated in preceptorship and mentorship roles. In 2010, Jill transitioned to a clinical research role at Children's Minnesota, where she developed skills in grant and proposal writing along with subject recruitment, screening, and data collection for several diabetes and endocrine research studies. In 2011, Jill graduated from St. Catherine University with her master's degree in nursing education. With her knowledge from her master's program, Jill became a pediatric diabetes educator at Children's Minnesota, where she participated in curriculum development and program management.

Jo Treat-Haug, MS

Assistant Professor, Nursing

Jo Treat-Haug's professional clinical experience has focused on adult acute care in the medical-surgical setting. She has experience in the Oncology and Orthopedics specialties. She received her Masters of Science in Nursing Education in 2019. He is also certified as a Public Health Nurse. She has been teaching at St. Catherine University since September 2019. She teaches didactic content in 2900 Introduction to Professional Nursing Practice, 2910 Nursing Care of Individuals and Families, and 3281/3282 Pathophysiology, as well as lab in 3800/3810 Application of Nursing Practice and Lab/Simulation in 4010 Care of Complex Patients.

Jocelyn Bessette Gorlin, PhD, MSN, CPNP

Associate Professor, Nursing

Jocelyn is an associate professor in the Department of Nursing. She obtained a BSN from Villanova University, MSN from Yale University, and PhD from the University of Minnesota. She has been a pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP) in hematology (bleeding disorders) for over 25 years, first at Boston Children’s Hospital then at the Children’s Hospital Minnesota (CHM). She was one of the first nurse practitioners at Boston Children’s Hospital and on the forefront of the pediatric AIDS epidemic in the 1980s, caring for children with hemophilia and AIDS.
Research interests involve quality of life in families raising a child with severe chronic illness.

John Fleming, PhD

Associate Professor, Occupational Therapy

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John Pellegrini, PhD

Professor, Biology

Dr. Pellegrini joined the Biology Department in 1994. He teaches Human Anatomy & Physiology and Biopsychology, and he coteaches interdisciplinary courses on anatomy, art, and the history of medicine. His current research examines endurance in pediatric cancer survivors. He is also one of the faculty mentors for the Mayo Innovation Scholars Program.
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John Schmitt, PT, PhD

Professor; IRB Co-Chair

Dr. John Schmitt received a Bachelor of Science from Central College in Pella, Iowa, followed by an M.S. in Organic Chemistry and a Graduate Certificate in Physical Therapy from the University of Iowa. After practicing outpatient orthopaedic physical therapy for 11 years, he returned to graduate school and was awarded a PhD in Rehabilitation Science from the University of Minnesota in December, 2002. He is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association and has been active in outpatient orthopedic physical therapy practice since 1986. He has a certification in manual therapy from the Institute of Physical Therapy in St. Augustine, FL.

Dr. Schmitt joined the faculty at St. Catherine University in 2001.

Jonathan Duellman PT, DPT

Assistant Professor, Physical Therapy Assistant

Dr. Jonathan Duellman, PT, DPT, is a professor in the Physical Therapist Assistant Program at St. Catherine University. He is a graduate of St. John’s University of Minnesota receiving his undergraduate degree in Psychology. He received his Doctorate of Physical Therapy in Omaha, NE at Creighton University. Upon graduation, Dr. Duellman completed an orthopedic residency at Creighton University before returning to Minnesota for clinical practice. He received board-certified specialist in orthopedic physical therapy in 2017. He is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association within the Orthopedic and Sports Sections.

Joshua Guggenheimer, PhD

Associate Professor, Exercise Sciences

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Josie Christian, DNP, RN, PHN

Assistant Professor, Nursing

Josie Christian, DNP, RN, PHN, PHN joined St. Catherine University in 2022. She completed her Masters of Nursing Education at Walden University in 2008, and is a proud DNP “Katie” graduate from St. Catherine University in 2017. Her varied nursing experience includes roles with inpatient nursing disease management, medical device, quality improvement, employee health nurse leader, nursing education including training and professional development and nursing academia. Josie’s research passions include ethical nursing practice including moral courage, faculty caring behaviors and presence within the online learning context, and emotional intelligence.

Joyce B. Perkins PhD, MS, MA, RN, SGAHN, AHN-BC, CHTP, RMP-T, ACE-GFI

Associate Professor, Nursing

Dr. Perkins is an Associate Professor at St. Catherine University Department of Nursing in St. Paul, MN, facilitating curriculum development for the American Holistic Nursing Association endorsed BSN program in the College for Adults. Dr. Perkins trained in Psych/Mental Health nursing at the University of Minnesota and worked for 14 years as a psych/mental health nurse at the bedside of patients at Mayo Clinic, in Rochester, MN. She completed her PhD in Nursing at the University of Colorado. She is an Advanced Practice Board Certified Holistic Nurse (AHN-BC) with certifications in Healing Touch (CHTP), Reiki (RMT-P) Therapeutic Touch, and Qigong.

Joyce Brettner, DNP, MAHS, RN-BC

Assistant Professor, Nursing

Joyce Brettner, DNP, MAHS, RN-BC. Dr. Brettner has a BS in Nursing from Bethel University, MA in Holistic Health Studies from St. Catherine University, and Doctor of Nursing Practice degree with a specialty in nursing informatics from the University of Minnesota. She completed the Veterans Administration Quality Scholars (VAQS) 2-year, post-doctoral fellowship at the Minneapolis VA Healthcare Center in October 2021. VAQS is a multi-site, interprofessional, Federal fellowship program that has been developing quality leaders for over 20 years. She has been board certified in nursing informatics through the American Nurse Credentialing Center.

Joyce Yukawa, PhD

Program Director & Associate Professor, Master of Library and Information Science Program

Joyce Yukawa is the Program Director and Associate Professor in the MLIS Program of St. Catherine University. She has taught introduction to LIS, reference and information services, research methods, internet fundamentals and design, information literacy instruction, social networking technologies, human information behavior, web usability/accessibility, and older adults and the web. Her teaching, research, presentations, and service draw upon interests in the blending of face-to-face and online interaction in librarianship and professional development, with a particular focus on social learning and service learning within communities of practice.

Judy Rognli, APRN CNP-Pediatrics

Assistant Professor, School of Nursing

Judy teaches in the BSN-DNP Nurse Practitioner Program. She is certified as a primary care pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP), having worked as a PNP for the last 25 years in a variety of settings including school based clinics, community clinics and several grant programs working with underserved, uninsured as well as homeless adolescents, young adults and families. Judy earned her bachelor's degree in nursing from Gustavus Adolphus College and her master's degree from St Catherine University. Judy had been adjunct faculty for 6 years and since 2020 (in the midst of COVID) transitioned to teaching full time in the nurse practitioner program.

Julie D. Bass, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA

Professor, Occupational Therapy

Dr. Julie D. Bass, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, is Professor and past Chair of the Department of Occupational Therapy and the Founding Director of the Public Health Program in the Henrietta Schmoll School of Health at St. Catherine University. Dr. Bass also served as the Director of Research at the American Occupational Therapy Foundation. Dr. Bass is an established and well-published scholar who has been a frequent presenter at national and international conferences and an invited member on several AOTA task force committees. Her areas of expertise include population health and health disparities, program development and evaluation, statistics and research methods, educational methods and emerging areas of practice for occupational therapy.

Julie Sabo, PhD, RN, APRN, CNS, FCNS

Assistant Professor, Nursing

Julie joined St. Catherine University in 2022 as an Assistant Professor. She holds a Master of Nursing: Cardiovascular Critical Care from the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing- Emory University in 1989 and a PhD from the University of Minnesota in 2016. Dr. Sabo's clinical practice has been a bedside clinician, CNS, and Director of Nursing Practice, Research, and Education. She served as the APRN Specialist at the Minnesota Board of Nursing prior to joining St. Catherine. She has expertise in healthcare policy, leadership, healthcare systems, nursing regulation, and has been active in APRN professional associations.

Justin Small, EdD

Department Chair, Assistant Professor, ASL and Interpreting

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Kabo Yang, MAOL

Adjunct Faculty, Organizational Leadership

Kabo Yang is a Strategic Services Senior Consultant at Propel Nonprofits and former Executive Director of the Minnesota Women’s Consortium. She brings a community leadership perspective, as well as her perspective as a woman of color and former refugee, to her teaching. She helps students leverage their core values and identities as strengths and assets to their leadership. As an MAOL graduate, she loves that students genuinely care about others and use their knowledge, experience, and power to advance equity. She’s taught Foundations of Leadership and Ethics, Leading Teams, and Advanced Practice in Change Leadership.

Kara S. Koschmann, PhD, APRN, CPNP-PC

Associate Professor, DNP Program Director, Nursing

Kara teaches in the BSN-DNP: Nurse Practitioner and DNP - post master's (DNP-PM) programs. She is also the program director for the AGNP, PNP, PMHNP, and DNP-PM programs. She is certified as a primary care pediatric nurse practitioner. Kara earned her bachelor's degree in nursing from Valparaiso University in Indiana and her master's of science in nursing of children from Saint Louis University, in St. Louis, Missouri. Her PhD in Nursing is from the University of Minnesota. She is a Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Future of Nursing Scholar. Her dissertation research study was titled, "Urban, low-income, African American Well-Child Care: Parent and Provider Experiences and Expectations.

Karen Loewenson, MA

Assistant Professor, Nursing

I have been a member of the St Catherine University faculty since 2010. I have taught in the baccalaureate degree nursing program and now teach in the master's degree entry-level nursing concentration. The focus areas of my classroom and clinical teaching include pediatrics, family health, community/public health, and leadership. Prior to coming to St Kate's, I was a school nurse for St. Paul Public Schools and a staff nurse for a county health department children's clinic. Until 2019, I also maintained a casual staff nurse position on the neonatal intensive care unit at the University of Minnesota Masonic Children's Hospital.

Karen M Sames, OTD, OTR/L, FAOTA

Professor, Occupational Therapy

Karen M Sames, OTD, MBA, OTR/L, FAOTA started teaching at St. Kate's in 1995. Karen primarily teaches content related to foundational knowledge of occupational science and occupational therapy, management of occupational therapy services, entrepreneurship, and political influences on occupational therapy practice. Karen takes an active role in advocating for the profession of occupational therapy through her leadership of the Government Affairs Committee of the Minnesota Occupational Therapy Association. She is active in the American Occupational Therapy Association, currently serving on the Board of Directors as Treasurer.

Kari A. Hartwig, DrPH

Associate Professor, Masters in Public Health in Global Health

Kari Hartwig is Program Director of the MPH in Global Public Health. Her public health and international development training have shaped her interests in gender analysis of health disparities, structural inequalities in health systems, organizational capacity and sustainability, and community-based participatory research. Dr. Hartwig has worked on a number of research and evaluation projects in eastern and southern Africa and southeast Asia in addition to urban communities in the United States. Recent projects include a study of refugee women, resilience and gardening, a qualitative impact evaluation of a community based organization in Minnesota supporting low-income families and individuals emerging from homelessness, and assessing burnout among Minnesota physician assistants.

Kari Fleming, RT (R) (ARRT)

Clinical Coordinator

Kate Larson, MPAS, PA-C

Assistant Professor, Physician Assistant Studies

Kate Larson graduated from the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology in 2009. She received her Master of Physician Assistant Studies from Marquette University in 2013. She joined the St. Catherine University Physician Assistant Program as an Assistant Professor in 2019. Her areas of clinical experience include Women's Health, Family Medicine, and Urgent Care. She continues to practice Family Medicine in the South Metro, with a special interest in acute care.
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Katelyn Brady, OTD, OTR/L

Assistant Professor, OTA Online

Katelyn Brady, OTD, OTR/L is an assistant professor in the occupational therapy assistant program at St Catherine University.
Katelyn graduated from Creighton University with her OTD degree in 2011 and a bachelor's degree in Psychology in 2008 from the University of Minnesota. Katelyn has practiced in a variety of areas of occupational therapy clinical practice, including adult acute care, acute rehabilitation, outpatient orthopedics and school based practice. She enjoys teaching a variety of courses, but focuses mainly on the courses on Aging and the Foundations of Human Occupation.

Katherine Campbell, PhD

Assistant Professor, Interprofessional Education Department; Director, Women's Health Integrative Research (WHIR) Center; Co-Director, Katies for Aging Research and Equity (KARE) Program

Dr. Campbell has a PhD in Molecular Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics from Mayo Graduate School. Her research interests include regenerative medicine, modes of emotional support for mothers and families, and student persistence in MSTEM research fields. She is actively conducting collaborative research in the areas of (1) parental support for families of children with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, (2) the role of mentorship support for couples experiencing infertility, and (3) the impact of research education programs on MSTEM student persistence into graduate school. In her role as WHIR Center director, she is engaged in collaborative projects with local women founders of early-stage femtech companies.

Katherine Tolcser, MA, RN

Assistant Professor, Nursing

Katherine has worked as a Pediatric Intensive Care Unit RN at the University of Minnesota Masonic Children's Hospital since 2008. In 2012, Katherine completed her Master's Degree in Nursing Education through St. Catherine University. She began teaching at St. Catherine University the following fall in 2013 in the Baccalaureate Degree Program for the College for Women. During her time at St. Catherine University she has primarily taught in Pathophysiology and Pediatric courses, in both the classroom and clinical settings.
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Kathleen Bell EdD, RN, PHN

Associate Professor, Nursing

It is my honor and pleasure to work with the nursing students in various programs at St. Catherine University. My role involves teaching with the BSN, MSNL, Nurse Educator, and DNP students. As a healthcare educational leader with over 20 years of experience in higher education, I possess an expansive knowledge of course and program development and assessment, leadership with supervisory experience, internal and external partnership and alliance initiatives, diverse team building, fiscal responsibility with institutional and grant budgets, nursing and healthcare accreditation, and a diligent dedication to meeting the needs of students, faculty, administration, and stakeholders.

Kathleen Tweeten, PhD

Professor, Carondelet Scholar, Biology

Kay Tweeten is a professor of biology at St. Catherine University. Her courses in molecular biology, cell biology, and immunology feature problem-based learning, case studies, and student-designed research projects. She has collaborated with numerous students in her research laboratory on cellular and molecular analysis of regeneration, degrowth, sexual reproduction, and ploidy levels in populations of the freshwater annelid, Lumbriculus. She involves students in experimental design, data collection and interpretation, and dissemination of results. The research environment provided allows students autonomy in their thinking and helps them explore their potentials as scientists.

Kathryn Molitor, MA, RN, CHSE

Assistant Professor, Nursing

Katie Molitor currently works at St. Catherine University as an Assistant Professor of Nursing. She completed her MA at St. Catherine University in 2010 and has been working in nursing education (much of it in simulation education) since that time. She has recently earned a graduate certificate in Healthcare Simulation from Boise State University in June 2019. Katie's specialty areas of practice include teaching and care of childbearing families and simulation learning.

Katie has facilitated simulation learning with multi-disciplinary teams in the acute care setting at Abbott Northwestern Hospital, and has spent her most recent practice working with nursing students in the University setting.

Kathy Keller, MA

Assistant Professor, Nursing

My goal is to help motivated students to become RN's that I would trust to care for a loved one, and in the process, I hope to make learning as interesting and non-threatening as possible.
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Kathy Thames, MS, RDN

Assistant Professor, Nutrition and Dietetics

As an alumnae of St. Kate's Nutrition and Dietetics program, Kathy returned to St. Kate's as faculty in the Fall of 2020. Kathy has over 30 years working as a dietitian in a variety of settings including critical care, wellness and rehab, academic, private practice and culinary training. As the capstone to her career, Kathy brings her practical application skills to the classroom to prepare diverse nutrition and dietetics students as leaders for a variety of professional roles. Kathy's passion is to educate and provide culinary and practical tools to help translate the science of nutrition into food choices.

Katie Arnold, MS, OTR/L, CLT

Assistant Professor, OTA Online

Katie is a registered Occupational Therapist and full-time assistant professor for St. Catherine's University - OTA Online program.

Katie has a Masters degree in Occupational Therapy from the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse and a Bachelors degree in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin - La Crosse.

Katie's clinical work experience includes acute care, subacute care, SNF care, outpatient orthopedic therapy services, and industrial rehabilitation. She is a certified lymphedema therapist. Katie also has experience in healthcare management and leadership and is extremely passionate about the profession of occupational therapy.

Katie Mancl, MIHM, RDCS (AE, PE)

Assistant Professor, Echocardiography

Katie Mancl became an Assistant Professor in the sonography program, echocardiography track at St. Catherine University in the fall of 2021. For over 13 years, Katie has gained both clinical and teaching experience while working in the Mayo Clinic echocardiography lab. She holds a Associate in Applied Science Diagnostic Medical Sonography, Echocardiography from Argosy University, Bachelor of Science, Business from Saint Mary's University and a Masters in International Healthcare Management (MIMH) from Arizona State University. Additionally she is maintains credentials in both adult and pediatric echocardiography.

Katie Toon, MOT, OTR, CLT

Assistant Professor, Academic Fieldwork Coordinator, OTA Online

Katie Toon, MOT, OTR, CLT is an Academic Fieldwork Coordinator and assistant professor for the OTA Program at St. Catherine University. She has been practicing occupational therapy since 2010. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Health Science in 2008 and a Master of Occupational Therapy in 2009 from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas. Katie became a Certified Lymphedema Therapist in 2012. She then completed the oncology focused Survivorship Training and Rehab Program in 2013. She began teaching Occupational Therapy Assistant Students in 2015, and became a Program Director at Brown Mackie College in Dallas, Texas in 2016.

Katrice Ziefle, PhD, RN, CNE

PM DNP Track Coordinator, Professor, Nursing

Katrice Ziefle is a Professor of nursing at St. Catherine University. She completed her Masters of Nursing Education at Bethel University and PhD in Nursing Education at Capella University. Dr. Ziefle’s research interests include generational theory and the impact of the environment on learning, specifically civility in nursing. Her teaching experience includes associate degree nursing, entry-level master’s degree nursing and doctor of nursing practice. Dr. Ziefle has a passion for teaching and learning strategies in nursing education and works to engage students at every level.
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Kelli Nielsen, PT, DPT, NCS

Associate Professor, Doctor of Physical Therapy Program

Kelli Nielsen joined the St Catherine University DPT faculty in 2017 as an assistant professor. She is a graduate of the University of Minnesota with a bachelor of science in kinesiology. She completed her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree at the Mayo School of Health Sciences in Rochester, Minnesota. Dr. Nielsen completed a neurologic residency at the University of Washington Medical Center in Seattle, WA and became an American Board of Physical Therapy Certified Neurological Clinical Specialist in 2013. Her research interests include acute care safety and postural control.
Dr. Nielsen teaches course content in neurologic examination & intervention, pulmonary rehab, acute care and complex medical physical therapy.

Kellie Agrimson, PhD

Assistant Professor, Biology Department

I am passionate about teaching and connecting with my students and hope to incorporate research into their college experience. As a first-generation college graduate, I relate strongly to disadvantaged students and feel that I can effectively combine inclusiveness with high expectations in my teaching practices. My primary research interest is testis development in the field of reproductive biology. In humans, infertility affects twenty percent of all couples and half of cases result from male infertility. Furthermore, twenty-five percent of male infertility cases are determined to be idiopathic, or unexplained.

Kelly Holmgren, ARRT

Instructor, Radiography

Kia Lee, MSW, LICSW, MBA

BSW Director of Field Education, Assistant Professor

I'm passionate about educating, coaching, and guiding students to become social workers who are ready and prepared to take on the world! As a practicing social worker, I understand the importance of preparation and experiences! I enjoy meeting with students and taking on their goals and interests. As a female Hmong social worker, I'm interested in cross-cultural best practices through critical and radical social work from integrated approaches.

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Kim N. Ha, PhD

Associate Professor, Chemistry

My laboratory is interested in correlating structure-dynamics-function relationships in proteins utilizing an array of biochemical techniques and solution-state NMR spectroscopy. I have extensive expertise in the study of mutations of the cardiac membrane protein phospholamban (PLN), and the adipocyte lipid chaperone fatty acid binding protein 4 (FABP4). Students in my laboratory develop practical skills in recombinant protein expression, isolation, and characterization.
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Kimberley Persons, DHS, OTR/L, CLA

Assistant Professor, Occupational Therapy

Kimberley Persons, DHS, OTR/L, CLA joined St. Catherine University's Occupational Therapy Department in August 2020. She teaches in the both the master's and doctoral program and mentors master's projects. Kimberley's current research is exploring community-based practice and the role of the Academic Fieldwork Coordinator in occupational therapy education. In 2018, she became a Certified Leader in Academia. She has been an occupational therapy educator for more than 10 years including 6 years as an AFWC. Her clinical background is working with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in home and community-based setting.

Kimkesia Morgan, MS, OTR/L

Assistant Professor/Academic Fieldwork Coordinator, OTA Online

Kimkesia has practiced OT for over 19 years with experience in various settings. As the Academic Fieldwork Coordinator for the Pacific region at St. Kate, she brings to this role a passion to inspire and create an environment where professional growth can flourish. One of her proudest achievements while working as a clinician was being chosen to teach her colleagues a new treatment intervention program for stroke patients. Kimkesia says that this is when she believes the teaching bug bit her!

Kimkesia believes one of the many wonderful things about St. Kate is its commitment to excellence and opportunity.

Kjersti Nelson, MS, RN

Assistant Professor, Nursing

Kjersti is an Assistant Professor of nursing at St. Catherine University in the Baccalaureate Degree Program - College for Adults. She earned her BSN and MS degrees from the University of Minnesota. Her practical background includes experience in orthopedic and cardiovascular care. Kjersti has an interest in the development of critical thinking in students and new nurses, specifically through the practices of curiosity and questioning. Additional areas of interest include caring science and holistic practice. Kjersti assisted in the development of a Unitary Human Caring Science BSN curriculum at St. Catherine University.

Krista Anderson, MSN, RN, CHSE-A

Director of Simulation, Henrietta Schmoll School of Health

Krista Anderson is a Certified Health Care Simulation Educator-Advanced (CHSE-A) with over twelve years of experience developing, facilitating, and evaluating healthcare simulation-based methods/techniques. She has experience in leadership and has contributed to the application of simulation-based education modalities for education, assessment and systems integration of healthcare professionals, students, and teams.  Krista is the Director of Simulation for the St. Catherine University Henrietta Schmoll School of Health.  This program is dedicated on creating an IPE Simulation program that will involve 28 Nursing and Health Sciences programs.

Krista Ollom-Klein, MA, RN, CNE

Assistant Professor, Nursing

Krista Ollom-Klein MA, RN, CNE joined St. Catherine University in 2006 after completing both her Baccalaureate and Master's degrees at the University. She completed her Certified Nurse Educator (CNE) in 2012. She specializes in medical-surgical acute care settings (focusing on neurological, post surgical, and gastroenterology), high fidelity simulations (both at the junior and senior level), and educating in the skill's lab.

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Kristen Lillvis, PhD

Division Chair of the Humanities, Mary Alice Muellerleile Endowed Chair and Professor of English

Kristen Lillvis is the Mary Alice Muellerleile '60 Endowed Chair in English at St. Catherine University, where she teaches courses on digital humanities and contemporary American and African American literatures. Her research explores issues of identity in diverse texts across a range of media, including works of electronic literature.
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Kristen Maisano, OTD, MAEd, OTR/L

Associate Professor, OTA Online, Occupational Therapy

Dr. Kristen Maisano, OTD, MAEd, OTR/L has been practicing occupational therapy since 2005. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in psychology and a Master of Science in occupational therapy in 2005 from Misericordia University, Dallas, Pennsylvania. Kristen earned her post-professional doctorate in occupational therapy at Boston University, Boston Massachusetts, in May 2010. In 2011, Kristen joined the Department of Defense as an occupational therapist working with service members diagnosed with mild traumatic brain and post-traumatic stress disorder. Kristen has presented on the topics of traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder at multiple state conferences.

Kristin Morris, EdD

Adjunct Faculty, Organizational Leadership

Dr. Kristin Morris is CEO & Principal Consultant of Genesis Consulting Services, LLC. She has been teaching adults for 13 years, merging theory and practice to foster a robust learning experience and environment for students. It is important to her to provide a safe space for experiential learning and growth. In her 16 years of leadership experience, she is most proud of winning the Provider of the Year Award for Ramsey County. Dr. Morris is excited to join MAOL for both the people-centered focus of the program and the focus on diverse, inclusive, and equitable leadership. .

Kristin Tupa, MBA

Adjunct Faculty, Organizational Leadership

Kristin Tupa currently works as a sustainability manager at Cargill, Inc. and brings over two decades of experience in a large, global corporation working in agriculture and food. She has worked with customers in the EU, Asia, and South and Central America, as well as with well-known brands in the U.S. like McDonald's and Target. She earned her MBA from the University of Minnesota while working at Cargill, so she understands what it is like to balance work and school. She helps students build confidence in their knowledge, gifts, and talents. She loves the intellectual energy in MAOL courses, which comes from working with students from across business, government, and nonprofit sectors.

Kristine Haertl, PhD, ACE, OTR/L, FAOTA

Professor, Occupational Therapy

Kristine Haertl, Ph.D., ACE, OTR/L, FAOTA, has been with St. Catherine University since 1997. She loves teaching and outside of the department has taught additional courses in the psychology department and in the CORE. She too has served for a number of years on the CORE Lead committee.
Within the department, Kristi teaches masters and doctoral courses related to foundations of occupational science, educational methods and practice, sensory-perceptual-cognitive processing, and introductory and advanced mental health practice.

Kristi has been active in mental health research related to peer-supported mental health housing models and exploration of the nature and efficacy of services at a free standing psychiatric occupational therapy clinic.

Kristine West, PhD

Endowed Professor in the Sciences; Associate Professor, Economics

Kristine Lamm West completed her PhD in Applied Economics at the University of Minnesota in 2012. Her primary fields of interest are labor economics, program evaluation, and the economics of education. Recent research projects investigate topics ranging from unions and performance pay to the impact of vision services on student achievement. Her research has been published in The Journal of Human Resources, Industrial Relations, Economics of Education Review, and Education Finance & Policy.
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Kurt Olson, PhD

Associate Professor, Biology

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Kyunghye (Konhe) Yoon

Associate Professor, Master of Library and Information Science Program

Dr. Konhe Yoon joined St Kate in the Fall of 2012 from the State University of New York at Oswego where she was a faculty in the Information Science Program for 10 years. Konhe’s research and teaching interests include human information interaction in the web-based information systems and digital environment, which encompasses cognitive, linguistic, communicative and shared information seeking and use behaviors. Her research examines user's information meaning represented in various interaction contexts, such as reference interviews or social tagging and folksonomy of users in representing information content on social media.

Lacey Rotier, MLIS

Assistant Professor and School Library Media Coordinator, Library and Information Science

Lacey Rotier works at St. Catherine University as an Assistant Professor and the School Library Media Program Coordinator in the Library and Information Science Department. Lacey received her Master's of Library and Information Science and K-12 School Library Media license from St. Catherine University. Prior to her position at St. Kate's, she was the Library Media Specialist at an elementary school in Robbinsdale Area Schools and other Twin Cities districts. Her professional interests include collaboration, technology integration, and effective instruction.
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Lana Prokop, DPT

Assistant Professor, Exercise Sciences

Lana Prokop, Assistant Professor of Exercise Sciences, teaches the undergraduate courses of Kinesiology and Biomechanics and Motor Learning and Motor Control. Her interests include gait biomechanics and women's health. Lana is a Board Certified Specialist in Orthopaedic Physical Therapy. Lana enjoys bringing her clinical background to the classroom to help students understand how theory translates to practice.
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Lanlan (Lacey) Chu, PhD

Assistant Professor, Economics

Lacey Chu completed her Ph.D. in Economics at Texas Tech University in 2017. She joined St. Catherine University in Fall 2020 after working as an assistant professor of economics at Buena Vista University in Iowa. Her primary fields of interest are health economics and industrial organization, focusing on health, aging, caregiving, and gender. Current research projects include cross-national comparison in prevalence and predictors of healthy aging, impacts of informal care on caregivers and recipients, and gender disparities in health and well-being. Her work has been published in journals such as Social Science & Medicine, Journal of Aging and Health, and Journal of Mental Health Policy and Economics.

Laura Fero, PhD, MSN, RN

Dean of Nursing - Henrietta Schmoll School of Health

Laura Fero brings an extensive background in healthcare as both a practitioner and higher education administrator to St. Catherine University. In her role as the dean of nursing in the Henrietta Schmoll School of Health, she is responsible for the growth and sustainability of Minnesota’s oldest nursing program. In addition to managing daily operations and the effectiveness of the nursing program, Fero leads innovation, curriculum design, and interprofessional education, ensuring all nursing graduates are prepared to provide cutting-edge, compassionate, and ethical care to patients. 

Her research interests include critical thinking skills development for nursing students, nursing career pathways, and supportive health services.

Laura Gilchrist, PT, PhD

Admissions Co-Chair, Professor

Dr. Gilchrist is a Professor in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program and a Clinical Research Scientist at Children's Hospitals and Clinics. She holds a BA in Biology from Lawrence University, as well as a BS in Physical Therapy and a PhD in Neuroscience from the University of Minnesota. Dr. Gilchrist has an active research program aimed at improving physical function in children and adolescents undergoing treatment for cancer. Her current focus is on investigating chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy in this population. She has received both institutional and national awards for her work in this area.

Laura Peterson

Program Director, Assistant Professor, Radiation Therapy

I worked as a radiation therapist in the Twin Cities area for eleven years and have been teaching since 2001.
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Lauren Guengerich, MSN, M.Ed., RN, APRN, CNP, FNP-C

Assistant Professor, BSN Simulation Coordinator, Nursing

Lauren Guengerich is an Assistant Professor of Nursing in the College for Adults, where she works as the College for Adults Simulation Coordinator. She is a Family Nurse Practitioner graduate from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, and former high school science teacher with an M.Ed. and 9 years of teaching experience. She is passionate about using nursing simulation to train the next generation of nursing professionals to provide high quality, cost-effective, culturally fluent, collaborative, holistic care to patients families, and communities.
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Laurie Anderson Sathe, Ed.D.

Program Director and Professor, Master of Arts in Holistic Health Studies

Teaching: I teach courses that introduce students to a holistic perspective of health and healing, specifically global and cultural studies that expose students to the interconnections of people across the globe and their approaches to healing. Also, courses that assist students in finding their authentic voices for leadership, connection and social change.
Research: I am interested in the ways that education can bring about positive change in health and healing. In particular, a holistic transformative pedagogy that integrates the mind, body and spirit in the learning process. I am intrigued by the richness and discoveries available through narrative and listening theories and their application to teaching, healing and connection.

Laurie Swabey, PhD

Professor, ASL and Interpreting

Laurie Swabey is Professor of Interpreting at St. Catherine University and Director of the CATIE Center where she is the principal investigator on two federally funded projects related to interpreter education. She holds a PhD from the University of Minnesota in Linguistics and her research interests include interpreting pedagogy and healthcare interpreting. Publications include co-edited volumes Advances in Interpreting Research (John Benjamins) and Educating Healthcare Interpreters (Gallaudet University Press). In addition to several book chapters, she has also published in a variety of journals including Interpreting: International Journal of Research and Practice, Translation and Interpreting Studies, Journal of Healthcare Quality, Journal of Interpreting, and International Journal of Interpreter Education.

Leah Wonderful, PharmD, BCGP

Assistant Professor

Leso Munala, PhD

Associate Professor, Public Health

My educational experience spans several disciplines. I earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from The Ohio State University, a master's degree in social work from the University of Chicago, and a doctorate in public health from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst. My dissertation investigated the factors influencing the quality of assistance offered to female survivors of sexual abuse in Nairobi, Kenya. My primary research interests are investigating and combating violence against women in East Africa. This involves the establishment of legislation and interventions for survivors of sexual violence, the eradication of damaging cultural practices such as widow inheritance, and the enhancement of the quality of post-rape care services.

Linda Nelson

Assistant Professor, Nursing Department

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Lisa Borneman, DSW, MSW, LICSW

Assistant Professor, Social Work

Lisa Rovick, EdD, CO, COMT

Associate Professor, Interprofessional Education

Lisa is a faculty member of the Interprofessional Education (IPE) at St. Catherine University who initially came to develop and direct a pioneering Orthoptic program and join the faculty for the Ophthalmic Technician program. She has practiced Orthoptics in a Pediatric Ophthalmology clinic and on several teams providing eye care to children living in poverty in Guatemala.
Lisa has been an active presenter at national and international eye care meeting since her certification in 1988.

In the IPE Department, Lisa has developed an interest in how teams develop and is studying ways to help interprofessional student teams rapidly develop cohesiveness and a sense of psychological safety.

Lisa Shields, MA, DNP, RN

Assistant Professor, Nursing

Lisa Shields, DNP, MA, RN, PHN is an Assistant Professor of Nursing at St. Catherine University. She completed her Master's of Arts in Nursing degree with a certification as a Gerontologic Nurse Practitioner at St. Catherine University and her Doctorate of Nursing Practice degree also from St. Catherine University. Dr. Shields has over 20 years of experience in nursing managing patients with chronic health conditions in areas including palliative care, hospice, geriatrics, and community health. She has a passion for holistic and integrative health.
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Lori Winchell, DrPH, MN, CWP

Associate Professor, Nursing

Lori Winchell, DrPH, APRN-BC, CWP has been a provider of health and wellness services for over 38 years. She is a certified wellness practitioner through the National Wellness Institute and a licensed Advanced Family Practice Registered Nurse in Minnesota. Lori has extensive background and experience in education, public health, preventative care, health promotion, and disease prevention. She has provided direct patient care to diverse populations in a variety of healthcare settings.
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Madison Swanson, BA

Office Coordinator

Marcella (Marcie) J. Myers, PhD

Professor of Biology, Carondelet Scholar, Biology

I am a Professor in the Department of Biology at St. Catherine University and a Carondelet Scholar. I work in the areas of physiology and physical anthropology (PhD from UW-Madison), with a particular focus on the locomotor physiology and biomechanics of humans in contemporary as well as early human populations. I am co-PI on a $1.5 M R25 NIA grant called Katies for Aging Research and Equity (KARE), which prepares underrepresented students for careers in longevity and aging research. I teach Human & Comparative Physiology, Biology of Longevity & Aging, Measuring Human Locomotion, and Biology of #Women.

Marcy Mears, DSW

Assistant Professor, Social Work

Margret McCue-Enser, PhD

Associate Professor, Communication Studies

Dr. Margret McCue-Enser teaches and researches rhetoric of place with a focus on Indigenous activism and settler colonialism.

Dr. McCue's work has appeared in the Quarterly Journal of Speech, Argumentation and Advocacy, and Communication Studies. Her work is included in Decolonizing Native American Rhetoric (2018, Kelly and Black, eds.) Her research includes collaborative work with Luther professor Derek Sweet on the rhetoric of President Barack Obama which resulted in the Communication Studies article as well a as a book chapter in Reconsidering Obama: Reflections on Rhetoric (2017, Terrell, ed.

Mari Ann Graham, MSW, PhD, LISW

MSW Program Director, Associate Professor

Mari Ann Graham, MSW, PhD, LISW, joined the St. Catherine University faculty fall 2019 as MSW Program Director and as tenured associate professor. She completed a PhD in Social Welfare from Case Western in 1999, her MSW from the University of Nebraska-Omaha (UNO) in 1983 and her BSW also from UNO in 1979. She also served as MSW Program Director for 6 years and as Interim Chief Diversity Officer while on faculty of the joint program with the University of St. Thomas for 25 years. She taught MSW practice, policy and research courses as well as courses in the DSW Program she helped develop and launch, summer of 2014.

Maria Tice, PhD

Associate Professor, Nursing

Maria Tice, PhD, RN, PHN, CNE is an Associate Professor at St. Catherine University in the MSNEL program. Dr. Tice earned her MSN in Nursing Education at St. Catherine University and her PhD in Nursing Education at the University of Northern Colorado. Dr. Tice has over 20 years of combined clinical practice in mental health, pediatrics, geriatrics, and as a licensed school nurse; and 9 years as a nurse educator and community/mental health clinical instructor. Dr. Tice’s research interests are in competency development in nursing education, specifically how to develop foundational mental health nursing and intercultural competency for all nurses; and intentionality in nursing as a spiritual practice.

Marisol Chiclana-Ayala, MPA

Adjunct Faculty, Organizational Leadership

Marisol Chiclana-Ayala, MPA, has over 30 years of experience in government and non-profit sectors. As a woman of color, and immigrant from Puerto Rico, she understands the challenges immigrants face. She brings both her real-life experiences and her professional expertise to the areas of public health, business administration, organizational development, and equity. Her most exciting accomplishment to date was leading a team of over 70 public health professionals in the COVID-19 response. She has taught for MAOL since 2018 in both the Study Abroad program and the Difference, Conflict, and Inclusion course.

Mark W. Grenfell, MBA, MS

Adjunct Faculty, Master of Business Administration

Mark Grenfell, MBA joined the St. Catherine University's MBA faculty in 2015. He brings to the classroom his 5 years of work experience at General Motors as well as 35 years at 3M, from which he is now retired. He has experience as a technical inventor, program manager, project manager, global business manager, and global lab manager. He also has extensive experience with new product introduction, intellectual property (along with dozens of patents), program and team leadership, and brand marketing. Professor Grenfell is particularly proud of negotiating and implementing a brand licensing agreement for the use of Scotchgard™ on eyeglass lenses, for which the team won a 3M Global Marketing and Sales Professionalism Award.

Mary Hedenstrom, PhD

Assistant Professor, Education Department

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Mary Henderson - MBA, Ed.D.

Professor, Business Administration

Dr. Mary U. Henderson currently teaches management, leadership, sales, and the Business Practicum courses within the School of Business at St. Catherine University. She is the Faculty Internship Advisor for Business Administration students. Her teaching priority is to bring together theory and application to prepare students for rewarding professional careers.
Henderson has 18 years of industry experience in buying, marketing, and management. This includes experience as a vice president for a Fortune 500 corporation. Dr. Henderson's scholarship focuses on business ethics and Catholic Social Teaching, leadership, and career preparation.

Mary Heppner, MSN, RN, CCRN, CMC

Assistant Professor, Nursing

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Mary Nienow, PhD, LGSW

BSW Program Director and Assistant Professor

Dr. Mary Nienow earned her BSW from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire in 1997, her MSW from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, in 2003, and her PhD in Social Work from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, in 2018. Dr. Nienow has over twenty years of experience in research, teaching, advocacy, program coordination, policy development and analysis and community organizing. Dr. Nienow was the co-founder of Grasstops, a nonprofit advocacy organization that assisted nonprofits and small community groups with their policy and advocacy goals. Her extensive practice experience also includes Policy Consultant for Hennepin County Medical Center, Field Director at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, Executive Director at Child Care WORKS, and lead researcher on Health and Human Services for the Minnesota Senate DFL Caucus.

Mary Thomas, EdD, MBA

Associate Professor, MBA

Mary received her BA from St. Catherine University and considers it an honor to be back! After graduating from St. Kate's she continued her education receiving her MBA with focuses in Management and Quantitative Analysis, and later her Doctorate in Leadership. Mary has been teaching higher education on an adjunct basis since 1998, and her industry experience consists of 20 years of leadership in the fitness/wellness industry. Mary's hobbies include exercise, healthy cooking, and writing/blogging about wellness. She also enjoys traveling and takes at least two vacations every year, usually one involving somewhere warm during the winter months.

Maryam Becker, MA-HRIR

Adjunct Faculty, Master of Business Administration

Maryam Becker, MA-HRIR joined St. Catherine's MBA faculty in 2021. She brings to the classroom 11 years of Human Resources and Leadership experience from Target Corporation. Maryam has experience in recruitment, talent management, performance management, diversity and inclusion, coaching, and mentoring. She has  experience leading executives through ambiguous talent initiatives to hit their business strategies through talent. Maryam's biggest accomplishments have been leading organizational changes and developing talent initiatives in partnership with executives of an organization. Maryam received her Master's degree in Human Resources Industrial Relations from the Carlson School of Management at University of Minnesota and her undergraduate degree in Human Resource Development with an emphasis in Leadership from the College of Human Development at University of Minnesota.

Matthew Byrne, PhD, RN, CNE

Adjunct Faculty

I am passionate about improving the technologies used by nurses and patients in both the clinical and educational