NURSING Faculty – AUHS

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NURSING Faculty

AUHS › PROGRAMS › Faculties › NURSING Faculty

THE FACULTY

School of Nursing

Dr. Michelle Paysan-Modina, DNP, MBA, APRN, AGNP-C

Executive Dean and Professor of the School of Nursing Programs/Assistant Chief Nurse Administrator

Dr. Gregorio L. De Grano, PhD, MSN, APRN, FNP-C

Dean and Assistant Professor of Graduate Nursing Programs

Dr. Arvin Torres, APRN, FNP-BC, MSN-NE, MD

Assistant Dean and Assistant Professor of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Maria Shearing, MSN-Ed, FNP(c), RN, PHN, MICN, ENPC

Assistant Dean and Associate Professor of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (Clinical)

Dr. Jeazale Julian, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PHN

Clinical Affiliations Coordinator of the Graduate Nursing Programs

Girlielyn S. Tiu, MSN, APRN, FNP-C

Assistant Professor

Dr. Jennifer Obsania, DNP, MSN, RN

Assistant/Adjunct Professor

Brent Aspiras, MSN-Ed., BS, RN

Adjunct Instructor

David Omut, RN, BSN, MBA

School of Pharmacy, Nursing, and future School of Medicine

Elynita N. Arella, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP

Adjunct Clinical Faculty

Dr. Maria Rowena Tan Cabatingan, MD, APRN, FNP-BC

Full-Time Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Dr. Dave M. Usman, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PHN

Adjunct Faculty of the Master of Science in Nursing Program

Joseph Francisco, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP

Nursing Graduate Program for School of Nursing

Josephine Clarisse Santos, MSN, FNP, BSN

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Dr. Hesamedine Gharavi, MD, MSN, FNP, BSN, PHN

Full-Time Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Lester Belo, MSN, RN, PHN

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Mikko Angela Arceno, MSN, BSN, RN

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Aristotle Marasigan, MSN, RN, CCRN, APHON

Adjunct Faculty, Pediatrics AUHS/Staff RN, PICU Kaiser Permanente

Ghadeer Hamieh, BSN, MSN-ed, DNP(c)

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Crizelle Villarta Tan, MSN-Ed, RN

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Kenya Smith, PMHNP, RN

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Janet M. Kazibwe, APRN-NP, MSN Edu, RN, PHN, BSN

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Denise Waller, DNP, MSN, BSN

Full-Time Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Denise Jackson Gatewood, WHNP, MSN, RN, BSN

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Isaac Ugorji, PMHNP, MSN, MSN.Ed, RN, PHN, B.Sc

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Marithel Arambulo, MSN, RNC-OB, PHN, FNP-S

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Meerabai Narasimalu, DNP, MSN, FNP, RNC-OB, PHN

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Stephanie Wagas, MSN-Ed, FNP(c), RN

Full-Time Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Mary Juliano, MSN-Ed, RN, BSN

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Marco J. Attenello, MSN-Ed, RN

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Alea Nicole Sohn, MSN-FNP, RN, BSN,BA, AA

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Raulin D. Feria, DNP, APRN, PHN, FNP-BC, PED-BC, CPN, CPEN, CCRN

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Suzanne Morales, DNP, MSN-NE, FNP-BC, PHN

Adjunct Faculty OB Clinical Instructor

Christopher Rabadon, RN BSN

Adjunct clinical instructor

Dr. Hazel Evalle, DNP, MSN, FNP-C

Faculty

Manuel S. Atienza, MD, MSN, FNP, APRN-CNP, RN

Faculty

Dr.Sheryl Antido

Faculty

Stephanie Wagas

Faculty

Christopher Rabadon

Faculty

Meerabai Narasimalu

Faculty

Kenya Smith

Faculty

Helena Calloway

Faculty

Manuel Dela Cruz

Faculty

Felor Abbasnejad

Faculty

Patrick Sheehy

Faculty

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Jeazale Julian DNP MSN APRN FNP C PHN 600x600 1

Jeazale Julian, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PHN

Faculty

jjulian@auhs.edu

Education

DNP, Grand Canyon University
MSN Family Nurse Practitioner, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science
BSN, Mount St. Mary’s University
BS Psychology, Miriam College, Philippines

Bio

Dr. Julian has been a dedicated healthcare professional since 2008, bringing over 17 years of nursing experience across various settings, including ambulatory and acute care, hospitals, and nursing education. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from Grand Canyon University and her Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner from Charles R. Drew University.

Currently, Dr. Julian practices as a Family Nurse Practitioner at a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), where she delivers high-quality, evidence-based care to underserved and uninsured populations. Her clinical focus centers on accessible, patient-centered primary care that addresses the unique needs of vulnerable communities.

In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Julian has served in academia since 2022, playing a pivotal role in supporting and shaping graduate-level clinical education. She is deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of Family Nurse Practitioners by overseeing and facilitating clinical placements, particularly in outpatient care settings. Her responsibilities include collaborating with external healthcare partners, coordinating clinical schedules, ensuring alignment with program outcomes, and guiding students through their hands-on training.

Through her dual roles as educator and practitioner, Dr. Julian bridges the gap between academic learning and real-world clinical application—fostering professional growth, clinical competence, and a strong foundation in compassionate care.

Subject Matter Expertise

Nutrition (BSN), Primary Care of the Adult and Older Adult in Advanced Practice (FNP), Advanced Pharmacology (FNP), Advanced Physical Assessment (FNP), Leadership, Ethics and Interprofessional Collaboration for Advanced Practice (MSN), Healthcare Delivery, Informatics and Innovation (DNP)

Publications/Presentations

Improving diabetes self-management and fasting blood glucose through text messaging [Doctoral direct improvement project, Grand Canyon University]. Phoenix, AZ.

IRB regulation, process, and policies [Seminar presentation]. Charles R. Drew University, Los Angeles, CA.

Dr. Arvin Torres APRN FNP BC MSN NE MD

Arvin Torres, MD, MSN-FNP, BSN, RN

Faculty

atorres@auhs.edu

Education

MD, Far Eastern University, Philippines
Post Grad APRN-FNP, American University of Health Sciences
MSN, University of Phoenix
BSN, St. Jude College, Philippines
BS Biology, Far Eastern University, Philippines

Bio

Dr. Arvin Torres is a practicing Nurse Practitioner specializing in urgent care and a dedicated educator with a strong clinical and academic background. He has over four years of experience teaching in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, with a focus on medical-surgical nursing and pharmacology. In addition, he has taught nurse practitioner students in advanced pharmacology and pathology.

Subject Matter Expertise

Medical Surgical & Pharmacology

Mikko Angela Arceno MSN BSN RN

Mikko Angela Arceno, MSN, BSN, RN

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

marcerno@auhs.edu

Education

MSN Family Nurse Practitioner, American University of Health Sciences
BSN, American University of Health Sciences

Bio

Mikko Angela Arceno, BSN, RN, is a dedicated Registered Nurse and clinical educator with a strong foundation in both bedside care and nursing education. Currently pursuing her Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP), Mikko is passionate about equipping future nurses with practical, hands-on clinical skills, with a particular focus on IV therapy and acute care.

Her clinical background encompasses orthopedic and neuro care, along with observation care, at Long Beach Memorial, where she gained expertise in managing complex patient needs. Besides her clinical work, Mikko contributes to the clinical nursing courses at the American University of Health Sciences, where she motivates and guides students on their path to becoming skilled and compassionate nurses.

Mikko is committed to advancing nursing practice through a blend of education, empathy, and innovation, empowering the next generation of nurses to deliver safe, evidence-based, and patient-centered care.

Subject Matter Expertise

Medical Surgical, Geriatrics, Clinical Educator

Lester Belo MSN RN PHN

Lester Belo, MSN, RN, PHN

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Education

MSN, Grand Canyon University
BSN, West Coast University
BS, California State University, Los Angeles

Bio

Lester Belo is an Adjunct Faculty member at the American University of Health Sciences (AUHS) School of Nursing and a Public Health Nurse Supervisor with Los Angeles County, bringing over a decade of diverse nursing experience across acute care, community health, and leadership roles. His clinical background spans medical-surgical, telemetry, step-down ICU, and telehealth services, with a strong emphasis on holistic, patient-centered care for underserved populations.

Currently serving as a Captain in the U.S. Army Reserve Nurse Corps (Inactive Ready Reserve), Lester has prior experience in military medical operations, personnel readiness, and training. His leadership philosophy is grounded in servant leadership and mentorship, and he is deeply committed to guiding future nurses through evidence-based practice and real-world clinical insight.

Lester is currently pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), with research focused on improving mental health literacy and reducing stigma among undergraduate nursing students. He is dedicated to advancing health equity, resilience, and compassionate care through a multidisciplinary, community-focused approach.

Subject Matter Expertise

Medical Surgical, Geriatrics

Research Interests

Mental health literacy among undergraduate nursing student, Quality of elder care in assisted living settings, Implementation of telehealth services in underserved communities, Health transitions and resilience among military veterans

David Omut RN BSN MBA 1

David Omut, RN, BSN, MBA

School of Pharmacy, Nursing, and future School of Medicine

Director of Simulation and Interprofessional Education

Education

MBA, Western Governors University
BSN, Western Governors University
BS, California State University Fullerton

Bio

David Omut, MBA, is the Director of the Simulation Laboratory and Interprofessional Education at the American University of Health Sciences. He has over 13 years simulation experience and has helped to develop the simulation and interprofessional education programs at AUHS. Before coming to AUHS, Mr. Omut had experience in with other Allied Health and Nursing schools, helped develop simulation programs for CTE programs in high schools, and worked for Laerdal Medical, the leader in medical simulation. Mr. Omut is passionate about using evidence-based practice to improve learning through simulation and interprofessional education. His goal is to make a high level of training possible by providing scenarios and manikins for interprofessional education.

Subject Matter Expertise

Medical Simulation
Interprofessional Education
Standardized Patients

Selected Publications and Scholarly Presentations

Islam, M. A., Uvero, M., Omut, D., & Dutta, A. (2024). A Longitudinal and Deliberate Interprofessional Education Program in a Pharmacy School. Health Professions Education, 10(1), 9.

Research Interests

Medical Simulation
Virtual/Augmented Reality
Artificial Intelligence

Girlielyn S. Tiu MSN APRN FNP C

Girlielyn S. Tiu MSN, APRN, FNP-C

Assistant Professor

Education

Doctor of Medicine, University of Santo Tomas, College of Medicine, Philippines, 1993
Master of Science in Nursing, Charles R. Drew University, School of Nursing, California, Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN/FNP), 2018
Pediatric Residency, Chinese General Hospital, Manila, Philippines, 1995-1997
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), University of La Salette, College of Medicine, Philippines, 1993
Bachelor of Science in Psychology, University of Santo Tomas, College of Science, Philippines, 1989

Bio

Girlielyn S. Tiu, MSN, APRN, FNP-C is an assistant professor for American University of Health Sciences’ Graduate Program School of Nursing. She is a board-certified Family nurse practitioner with vast clinical experience in Family and Primary Pediatric Health Care as well as an additional 28 years of experience in varied clinical settings such as ICU, NICU, PICU, and other outpatient settings.

With nearly 30 years of experience in teaching academia, Professor Tiu is committed to advocating and ensuring the advancement of both clinical education and the wellbeing of future advanced practice nurses as they strive to become respective leaders within their fields of expertise. By primarily focusing on evidence-based principles with an emphasis on combining and incorporating the theoretical and practical aspects of patient care within and beyond the clinical setting, Professor Tiu seeks to emphasize the importance of patient-physician relationships to ensure lasting beneficial changes for their future patients. As both an active practicing healthcare provider and a clinical educator, Professor Tiu aspires to develop a nurturing yet academically rigorous environment to help current students become more confident in their abilities as they transform themselves into life changing practitioners in their respective fields of study.

In addition to Professor Tiu’s clinical occupation, Professor Tiu has also served as a religious educator for the youth and as an active Eucharistic Minister in Saint Paul the Apostle Catholic Church. As a result, Professor Tiu’s values center on compassion, understanding and mentorship in accordance with faith-based principles as these guiding principles are what transform an individual not only into a more well-rounded, complete physician, but an equally holistic individual. It is Professor Tiu’s goal to help others truly understand that healthcare and patient care is not just an occupation, but a way of life.

Subject Matter Expertise

Primary Care of the Pediatric Patient in Advanced Practice
Primary Care of the Pediatric Patient in Advanced Practice Clinical
Primary Care of Women in Advanced Practice Clinical
Primary Care of Adults and Older Adults in Advanced Practice Clinical

Scholarly Contributions

Diya, J., & Magno, J. & Placencia, T. & Tiu, G. (2018) Increasing Incidence of Clostridium Difficile infection Among ICU Parents: Association with the Use of Proton Pump Inhibitor Therapy. Los Angeles, California, Charles Drew University of Medicine and Science

Dr. Elynita Arella 400x400 1

Elynita N. Arella, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP

Adjunct Clinical Faculty

earella@auhs.edu

Education

DNP with Specialization in Psychiatric and Mental Health (University of Massachusetts
Global, Marybelle & S. Paul Musco School of Nursing, Irvine, CA)
Doctor of Medicine (De La Salle University of Medicine, Philippines)
MSN-FNP (Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, CA)
BA Psychology (University of California Irvine, Irvine, CA)

Bio

Dr. Elynita N. Arella serves as an adjunct faculty member in the School of Nursing.
She is a board-certified nurse practitioner with expertise in family and primary health
care, as well as hospice and palliative care.

Dr. Arella is a dedicated and compassionate clinician who brings extensive experience
delivering high-quality, patient-centered care across diverse healthcare settings.
Currently practicing at Luis M. Blando MD Inc. in Port Hueneme, CA, she provides
comprehensive assessments, performs detailed physical examinations, interprets
diagnostic studies, and initiates evidence-based therapeutic interventions for patients
with both acute and chronic conditions.

Her commitment to coordinated, holistic care is evident in her collaboration with
interdisciplinary teams and community agencies. Dr. Arella’s previous roles include
serving Veterans at Loyal Source – VA Disability, where she conducted comprehensive
disability examinations and offered objective medical evaluations, and leading care
transitions as an Outpatient/Community Case Manager with Regal Medical Group.

Earlier in her career, she honed her skills as a hospice case manager, emphasizing
patient advocacy, education, and support for patients and families. Skilled in chronic
disease management, patient education, and quality improvement, Dr. Arella excels at
fostering trust and empowering patients to achieve optimal health outcomes.

Subject Matter Expertise

Health Systems and Nursing Informatics for APRN
Primary Care of Adult and Elderly, and Family

Scholarly Presentation

Western Institute of Nursing, 2017 WIN Conference: Denver, CO- Public Health
Partnership: Engaging Nursing Students to Protect the Vulnerable

Jeazale Julian DNP MSN APRN FNP C PHN 600x600 1

Dr. Jeazale Julian, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PHN

Clinical Affiliations Coordinator of the Graduate Nursing Programs

jjulian@auhs.edu

Education

DNP, Grand Canyon University
MSN Family Nurse Practitioner, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science
BSN, Mount St. Mary’s University
BS Psychology, Miriam College, Philippines

Bio

Dr. Julian has been a dedicated healthcare professional since 2008, bringing over 17 years of nursing experience across various settings, including ambulatory and acute care, hospitals, and nursing education. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from Grand Canyon University and her Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner from Charles R. Drew University.

Currently, Dr. Julian practices as a Family Nurse Practitioner at a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), where she delivers high-quality, evidence-based care to underserved and uninsured populations. Her clinical focus centers on accessible, patient-centered primary care that addresses the unique needs of vulnerable communities.

In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Julian has served in academia since 2022, playing a pivotal role in supporting and shaping graduate-level clinical education. She is deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of Family Nurse Practitioners by overseeing and facilitating clinical placements, particularly in outpatient care settings. Her responsibilities include collaborating with external healthcare partners, coordinating clinical schedules, ensuring alignment with program outcomes, and guiding students through their hands-on training.

Through her dual roles as educator and practitioner, Dr. Julian bridges the gap between academic learning and real-world clinical application—fostering professional growth, clinical competence, and a strong foundation in compassionate care.

Subject Matter Expertise

Nutrition (BSN), Primary Care of the Adult and Older Adult in Advanced Practice (FNP), Advanced Pharmacology (FNP), Advanced Physical Assessment (FNP), Leadership, Ethics and Interprofessional Collaboration for Advanced Practice (MSN), Healthcare Delivery, Informatics and Innovation (DNP)

Research/Scholarly Activities

Improving diabetes self-management and fasting blood glucose through text messaging [Doctoral direct improvement project, Grand Canyon University]. Phoenix, AZ.

IRB regulation, process, and policies [Seminar presentation]. Charles R. Drew University, Los Angeles, CA.

Isaac Ugorji PMHNP MSN MSN.Ed RN PHN B.Sc

Isaac Ugorji, PMHNP, MSN, MSN.Ed, RN, PHN, B.Sc

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

iugorji@auhs.edu

Education

PMHNP, National University, Los Angeles, California
MSN-Ed, West Coast University, Anaheim, California
PHN, California Baptist University, Riverside, California
MSN (Generalist), California Baptist University, Riverside, California
B.Sc, Microbiology and Brewing, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria

Bio

Isaac has worked as a CNA for a year, and as a Licensed Vocational for seven years, acquiring basic skills and knowledge that has helped shape his nursing experience. He has worked for over seven years as a critical care nurse, infection control expert, and as a PICC line nurse. Isaac teaches with passion with the mentorship approach to help bring out the best in his students, inculcating Parse’s theory of human becoming in both student and client care.

With master’s degrees in nursing as a generalist, nursing education, psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner and public health nursing, he teaches at American University of Health Sciences and fills up time at California Career Institute. He has been at California Baptist University and Azusa Pacific University. He loves to mentor nursing students with multiple scholarships to many students in Africa to study nursing. He loves to see nurses become entrepreneurs and incorporates the entrepreneurial part of nursing into his teachings. Isaac has a great passion for helping students overcome challenges of life, and their NCLEX exam.

Subject Matter Expertise

Fundamentals, Medical Surgical, Critical Care

Alea Sohn

Alea Nicole Sohn, MSN-FNP, RN, BSN,BA, AA

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Education

DNP Lifestyle Medicine (In Progress), Florida State University
MSN Family Nurse Practitioner, University of Southern California
BSN, Palm Beach Atlantic University
BA, Palm Beach Atlantic University
AA, Indian River State College

Bio

Alea Sohn is a Family Nurse Practitioner with a passion for lifestyle medicine, preventive care, and patient education. She’s currently pursuing her Doctor of Nursing Practice at Florida State University, building on her Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Southern California and nearly a decade of hands-on clinical experience.

Her background spans pediatric and midwifery care, hospital-based nursing, and academic instruction. Alea currently serves as a Professor and Clinical Instructor at Career Network Institute and also contributes to clinical pediatric coursework at American University of Health Sciences (AUHS). Known for her engaging and approachable teaching style, students consistently describe her as interactive, fun, and supportive.

She’s an active member of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners, the California Association of Nurse Practitioners, and the American Holistic Nurses Association. Known for her academic dedication and active engagement in professional communities such as Sigma Theta Tau and Phi Theta Kappa, Alea remains a passionate advocate for quality education and meaningful patient care.

Alea’s work reflects her belief that the most effective care comes from combining deep clinical expertise with compassion and respect for everyone.

Subject Matter Expertise

Pediatrics, Family Nurse Practitioner

Kenya Smith PMHNP RN

Kenya Smith, PMHNP, RN

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

ksmith@auhs.edu

Education

MSN Psychiatric Mental Health NP, Charles Drew University of Medicine and Health Science
BSN, American University of Health Sciences

Bio

Kenya Smith is a proud alumnus of AUHS BSN program Cohort 16. He also earned his MSN (PMHNP) from Charles Drew School of Medicine. He is currently the NP/Nursing Director at the Homeless Outreach Program Integrated Care System (HOPICS), a Homeless Outreach Program in Los Angeles.

He contributes to AUHS as a clinical adjunct faculty for Mental Health. Kenya is a father of three wonderful children (Tanee, Solomon, Faith) and grandfather of one (Kaiden). Mr. Smith is a man of faith and a believer in hope. AUHS has made a significant impact on his life, inspiring him to give back to the university in any way he can.

Subject Matter Expertise

Psychiatric/ Mental Health Nurse Practitioner

Patrick Sheehy

Patrick Sheehy

Faculty

psheehy@auhs.edu

Josephine Clarisse Santos MSN FNP BSN

Josephine Clarisse Santos MSN, FNP, BSN

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

jsantos@auhs.edu

Education

MSN Family Nurse Practitioner, American University of Health Sciences
BSN, Western Governors University
ADN, Los Angeles Harbor College

Bio

Josephine (Jopye) brings over 25 years of dedicated experience in obstetrical nursing, with a strong clinical foundation in Maternal-Child Health and evidence-based care. Her extensive background includes roles in Labor and Delivery, Mother/Baby units, Newborn Nursery, and High-Risk Obstetrics within hospital-based settings.

Passionate about bridging theory and practice, Josephine emphasizes hands-on learning, critical thinking, and clinical excellence. She is committed to preparing nursing students to excel in obstetrical care through immersive, real-world clinical experiences.

Josephine contributes to the clinical courses at the American University of Health Sciences (AUHS), where she continues to mentor and guide BSN students, helping them build the skills, confidence, and clinical judgment necessary for effective hospital-based practice.

Subject Matter Expertise

Obstetrics, Maternal-Child Health, Labor and Delivery

Christopher Rabadon RN BSN

Christopher Rabadon, RN BSN

Adjunct clinical instructor

crabadon@auhs.edu

Bio

Christopher Rabadon BSN RN currently serves as an adjunct faculty at American University of Health Sciences (AUHS). He has been a nurse for over 12 years, with strong foundation in the intensive care unit, medical-surgical unit, and telemetry unit. In addition, has a passion for mentoring and training new nurses. Currently working full time as RN staff at ICU and Trauma ICU in downtown LA. Graduated with associate degree of nursing in Kaplan College San Diego in 2012, earned BSN degree in 2018 at Western Governors University, and currently attending at Western Governors University for the MSN program.

Meerabai Narasimalu DNP MSN FNP RNC OB PHN

Meerabai Narasimalu, DNP, MSN, FNP, RNC-OB, PHN

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

mnarasimalu@auhs.edu

Education

DNP, Wilkes University
MSN, University of California, Los Angeles
BSN, University of Montreal, Faculty of Medicine
BSN, University of Phoenix
Diploma in Nursing & Midwifery, Government General Hospital – Chennai, India

Bio

Over 35 years of RN experience and 14+ years in education, with a strong focus on OB, pediatrics, med-surg, leadership, and ethics in both academic and clinical settings.

Dr. Meerabai Narasimalu has over 35 years of experience as a registered nurse and more than 14 years in nursing education. Her areas of instructional expertise include obstetrics, pediatrics, geriatrics, medical-surgical nursing, clinical instruction, leadership theory, fundamentals of nursing, and nursing ethics. She has taught at multiple nursing schools, guiding students in both classroom and clinical settings.

In addition to her academic roles, Dr. Narasimalu has over 15 years of healthcare administrative experience, further enriching her ability to mentor students with real-world system-level insights.

Her teaching philosophy emphasizes education as a dynamic, collaborative process. She fosters respectful, inclusive learning environments where students are encouraged to grow into confident, ethical, and compassionate nursing professionals.

Subject Matter Expertise

Obstetrics, Pediatrics, Geriatrics, Medical-Surgical Nursing

Suzanne Morales DNP MSN NE FNP BC PHN 1

Suzanne Morales, DNP, MSN-NE, FNP-BC, PHN

Adjunct Faculty OB Clinical Instructor

smorales@auhs.edu

Education

DNP and FNP (Charles Drew University, Los Angeles, California)
BSN and MSN-Nurse Educator (West Coast University, Anaheim, California)

Bio

Suzanne Morales is an experienced women's health professional with a rich background
in both clinical practice and education. She currently serves as an adjunct faculty member
and OB clinical instructor for the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at American
University of Health Sciences (AUHS).
Suzanne's journey in healthcare began in the Philippines, where she earned a degree in
Midwifery and practiced for over a decade. After moving to the United States, she
dedicated over 18 years to working as a Labor and Delivery nurse, concurrently engaging
in teaching roles.
Committed to advancing her expertise, Suzanne pursued higher education in California.
She earned her MSN (Nurse Educator) degree from West Coast University in Anaheim.
She furthered her studies at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science in Los
Angeles, where she obtained both her DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice) and FNP
(Family Nurse Practitioner) degrees.
Today, Suzanne works full-time as a provider in a women's health clinic and continues to
contribute to nursing education part-time as a clinical instructor.

Aristotle Marasigan MSN RN CCRN APHON

Aristotle Marasigan, MSN, RN, CCRN, APHON

Adjunct Faculty, Pediatrics AUHS

Staff RN, PICU Kaiser Permanente

Course Director, ACLS, PALS, BLS, NCLEX - CPRLink

amarasigan@auhs.edu

Education

BSN (University of Luzon- Philippines)
MSN (Western Governors University – Utah)

Bio

Aris is an adjunct faculty member at AUHS, specializing in Pediatric. With over 30 years of experience as a bedside RN, Aris has dedicated his career to both adult and pediatric critical care, with current focus on Pediatric Intensive Care. His extensive hands-on clinical background brings real-world relevance and depth to his teaching.

Aris is passionate about mentoring future nurses and equipping them with both the technical skills and clinical judgment needed to excel in high-stakes environments. In addition to his teaching role, he serves as a Course Director for ACLS, PALS, BLS and NCLEX preparations at CPRLink, where he leads training programs for healthcare professionals and nursing graduates.

Aris is also a follower of Jesus Christ, being an active member of Men’s Group at Cottonwood Church.

Known for his patient-centered approach and commitment to excellence, Aris bridges academic instruction with bedside application, helping students build confidence and competence in pediatric care. His teaching philosophy centers on critical thinking, compassion, and clinical readiness for today’s dynamic healthcare settings.

Subject Matter expertise

Pediatric Critical Care

Published Work /Published Education

Resiliency effect on Nurses Retention (co-I)- Presented at the:
a) 20 th APU Annual Nursing Research Symposium March 2025 at Azusa, CA and at
b) 5 th Filipino International Nursing Symposium in Sydney , Australia May, 2025

Mary Juliano MSN Ed RN BSN

Mary Juliano, MSN-Ed, RN, BSN

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

mjuliano@auhs.edu

Education

MSN Education, Grand Canyon University
BSN, Chamberlain University
ADN, Saddleback College, Mission Viejo

Bio

Mary Juliano is a passionate and dedicated nurse educator with over 15 years of experience in pediatric care, clinical instruction, and simulation-based learning. She currently serves as Simulation Faculty at West Coast University and contributes to pediatric clinical courses at the American University of Health Sciences (AUHS). Students consistently praise her hands-on teaching approach and value her realistic simulations, which help bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world nursing practice.

Mary holds a Master of Science in Nursing Education and brings a comprehensive perspective shaped by her diverse background in acute care, school nursing, and vocational instruction. She has taught in both clinical and academic settings, developed nursing curricula, and presented at professional conferences on pediatric early warning systems and simulation methodology.

Beyond her academic and clinical roles, Mary is deeply committed to community health. She has participated in international medical missions and actively serves in local ministries, combining her professional expertise with a heart for service.

Mary is a member of the Society for Simulation in Healthcare, the American Association of Critical Care Nurses, and the Society of Pediatric Nurses. Her teaching philosophy is grounded in compassion, critical thinking, and empowering future nurses to lead with knowledge, integrity, and confidence.

Subject Matter Expertise

Pediatrics

Ghadeer Hamieh BSN MSN ed DNPc 1 1

Ghadeer Hamieh, BSN, MSN-ed, DNP(c)

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

ghamieh@auhs.edu

Education

BSN, Makassed University of Beirut
MSN-ed, American University of Health Sciences
DNP(c), American University of Health Sciences

Bio

Ghadeer Hamieh is a dedicated registered nurse with over two decades of experience in diverse healthcare settings. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in 2002 and has since developed extensive expertise in pediatric intensive care, adult intensive care, and medical-surgical units. In addition to her strong clinical background, Ghadeer has developed specialized knowledge in health insurance, particularly in disease management, where she has contributed to improving patient outcomes through the implementation of coordinated care strategies.

Committed to advancing nursing education and practice, Ghadeer holds a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) with a focus on nursing education. She currently serves as a nurse educator, teaching both didactic and clinical courses such as Nursing Fundamentals, Physical Assessment, Medical-Surgical Nursing, and Ge Geriatrics. Her passion for education is reflected in her engaging teaching style and dedication to student success.

Ghadeer is currently pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), aiming to further enhance her leadership skills and impact within the healthcare system. With a strong commitment to lifelong learning and excellence in patient care, she continues to inspire future generations of nurses while striving to advance nursing practice through evidence-based education and leadership.

Subject Matter Expertise

Nursing Fundamentals, Physical Assessment, Medical-Surgical Nursing, and Geriatrics

Raulin D. Feria

Raulin D. Feria, DNP, APRN, PHN, FNP-BC, PED-BC, CPN, CPEN, CCRN

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

rferia@auhs.edu

Education

DNP Family Nurse Practitioner, University of Cincinnati, Ohio
MSN, Northwest Nazarene University, Idaho
BSN, Trinity University of Asia, Philippines

Bio

Dr. Raulin D. Feria is a multi-state-licensed family nurse practitioner with a strong background in primary care, critical care, geriatrics, and pediatrics. He holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Cincinnati, along with graduate degrees in nursing education and leadership. He teaches across clinical and didactic settings, mentoring students at both undergraduate and graduate levels.

Dr. Feria is actively involved in research projects focused on chronic care management, mental health in primary care, pediatric surgical pain control, remote health monitoring, healthcare organizational policy, nursing specialty certification, and professional development. His work has led to multiple publications and presentations at national conferences, underscoring his role as a thought leader in the nursing community.

Dr. Feria's dedication to the nursing profession is further evidenced by his involvement in various national and local professional organizations, including the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), Pediatric Nursing Certification Board (PNCB), Sigma Theta Tau International (Sigma), and the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN)

Subject Matter Expertise

Medical Surgical, Geriatrics, Pediatrics

Published/Scholarly Work

Feria, R., Harding K., Bushnell, F., Amirkhanian, J., (2023). Evaluation of a Pediatric Surgical Multimodal Pain Management Protocol and Development of an Organizational Policy. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Scholarly Project. University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati OH.

Feria, R., Garrett, L., Persiani, D., (2023). Mental Health Screening in the Primary Care Setting. Family Nurse Practitioner Capstone Poster. University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati OH.

Feria, R. (2017). Caring for our sweet little patients: Diabetes Mellitus Type I in Children. Pediatric Nurse Fellowship Module. Society of Pediatric Nurses, Chicago, IL.

Feria, R. (2016). Zap VAP: Bundle Strategies in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit. Northwest Nazarene University, Nampa, ID.

Feria, R. (2015). The Gender-Sensitive Side of HIV/AIDS: Exploring Risks and Prevention Strategies. Northwest Nazarene University, Nampa, ID.

Feria, R. (2015). Spotlight on the LGBT Community: Health and Cultural Issues, Then and Now. Northwest Nazarene University, Nampa, ID.

Feria, R., & Sutherland, L. (2015, May). While You Were Sleeping: PICU Nurses’ Knowledge on Sedation-Related Adverse Events. Research Proposal Poster Session Presented at the Veterans Affairs: 6th Annual Research Day Conference, Boise, ID.

Manuel Dela Cruz

Manuel Dela Cruz

Faculty

mdelacruz@auhs.edu

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Lester Belo

Faculty

Marco Attenello

Marco J. Attenello, MSN-Ed, RN

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Mattenello@auhs.edu

Education

MSN Nursing Education, West Coast University
BSN, West Coast University
BA in English, California State University, Northridge

Bio

Marco has been contributing to the clinical courses at the American University of Health Sciences (AUHS) since 2018. He has been a registered nurse practicing since 2015, with experience in medical-surgical, telemetry, and critical care nursing. His current focus is on researching ways to improve and apply nursing simulation to enhance the clinical experience for nursing students effectively.

Subject Matter Expertise

Medical Surgical, Telemetry, Critical Care Nursing

Marithel Arambulo MSN RNC OB PHN FNP S

Marithel Arambulo, MSN, RNC-OB, PHN, FNP-S

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

marambulo@auhs.edu

Education

APRN- FNP, American University of Health Sciences
MSN Nursing Informatics, Wester Governor’s University
BSN, St. Paul University, Philippines

Bio

Dedicated nurse leader and educator with over 28 years of experience in obstetrics, pediatrics, geriatrics, and leadership across academic and clinical settings.

Subject Matter Expertise

Obstetrics, Pediatrics, Geriatrics, Adult Medical-Surgical Nursing

Selected Publications and Scholarly Presentations

Enhancing Elderly Safety: Falls Prevention Strategies in a NICHE Unit – Podium and poster presentation, NICHE Conference, Omaha, NE (November 7-8, 2024)

Research Interests

Geriatric Nursing
Leadership in Nursing Practice
Patient Safety and Quality Improvement

Stephanie Wagas MSN Ed FNPc RN 2

Stephanie Wagas, MSN-Ed, FNP(c), RN

Full-Time Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

swagas@auhs.edu

Education

MSN-Ed, American University of Health Sciences
MSN-FNP, American University of Health Sciences
BSN, American University of Health Sciences

Bio

Stephanie Wagas, MSN-Ed, FNP(c), RN is a dedicated nurse educator and practicing clinician committed to advancing the nursing profession through academic excellence and hands-on experience. She currently serves as a faculty member in the School of Nursing at the American University of Health Sciences (AUHS), where she guides nursing students with a focus on clinical competence, compassion, and leadership.

Ms. Wagas earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in Education (MSN-Ed), and Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner (MSN-FNP) from AUHS. Her academic foundation is rooted in service-oriented, faith-based values that emphasize holistic, patient-centered care.

In addition to her role in academia, Stephanie works as a Burn ICU Registered Nurse at Torrance Memorial Medical Center. Her clinical practice in one of the most demanding and specialized critical care environments enables her to bring current, real-world insights to the classroom, enriching the learning experience for her students.

Stephanie is passionate about mentoring the next generation of nurses, preparing them to deliver safe, ethical, and culturally competent care.

Subject Matter Expertise

Geriatrics, Medical-Surgical Nursing

Dr. Hesamedine Gharavi MD MSN FNP BSN PHN 1

Dr. Hesamedine Gharavi, MD, MSN, FNP, BSN, PHN

Full-Time Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

hgharavi1@auhs.edu

Education

MD, Azad Medical School, Tehran
MSN, American University of Health Sciences
BSN, American University of Health Sciences

Bio

Dr. Hesamedine Gharavi actively teaches both didactic and clinical courses in the Bachelor of Science Nursing Program at the School of Nursing. After earning his Doctor of Medicine degree in Iran, he further advanced his nursing career by completing the Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner track at the American University of Health Sciences in California.

With over 15 years of hands-on medical experience, Dr. Gharavi delivers expert care across multiple specialties, including physical assessment, fundamentals, medical-surgical, intensive care (ICU), and emergency medicine. He also practices as a Registered Nurse in medical-surgical telemetry and gerontology settings.

Dr. Gharavi leverages his comprehensive clinical background and board certification to educate and mentor future nurses, equipping them to excel in diverse healthcare settings.

Subject Matter Expertise

Geriatrics, Medical-Surgical, Emergency Medicine, Physical Assessment, Nursing Fundamentals

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Dr. Maria Rowena Tan Cabatingan, MD, APRN, FNP-BC

Full-Time Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

mcabatingan@auhs.edu

Education

MD, University of Sto. Tomas, Philippines
MSN Family Nurse Practitioner, American University of Health Sciences
BS, California State University, Los Angeles

Bio

Dr. Cabatingan was born, raised, and educated in Manila, Philippines. After completing medical school, she trained in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, where she later served as a training officer for residents following her fellowship with the Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological Society.

In 2013, Dr. Cabatingan moved to the United States and began working as a charge and staff nurse in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Trinity Hospital in Minot, North Dakota. She also served as a NICU flight nurse, providing critical care during neonatal transports.

In 2021, Dr. Cabatingan relocated to California, where she currently lives and continues to work in the healthcare field. Her diverse background in both medicine and nursing reflects her dedication to delivering compassionate, high-quality care across various clinical settings.

Subject Matter Expertise

Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pediatrics, Legal and Ethical Aspects of Healthcare, Healthcare Communication

Dr. Dave M. Usman DNP MSN APRN FNP C PHN

Dr. Dave M. Usman, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PHN

Adjunct Faculty of the Master of Science in Nursing Program

dusman@auhs.edu

Education

DNP, Grand Canyon University
MSN Family Nurse Practitioner, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science
BSN, University of Phoenix
ADN, West Coast University
LVN, American Career College

Bio

Dr. Usman is an adjunct faculty member in the MSN program, bringing over 17 years of nursing experience with a focus on advanced primary care. He earned his Master of Science in Nursing in 2017, became a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner, and completed his Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree in 2022.

Since 2018, Dr. Usman has practiced as a Family Nurse Practitioner, delivering care to underserved populations at federally qualified health centers. He currently works at Kaiser Permanente and the Student Health Center at the Keck School of Medicine at USC. Earlier in his career, he accumulated a decade of experience in preoperative nursing, telemetry, intensive care units, and emergency departments.

Dr. Usman is passionate about evidence-based primary care, patient empowerment, and health education. In 2024, he was honored as a finalist for Advanced Practice Provider of the Year at Kaiser Permanente Southern California.

Subject Matter Expertise

Family Nurse Practitioner, Telemetry, Preoperative Nursing, Intensive Care Unit (ICU)

Published Work /Published Education

Usman, D. M. (2022). Implementation of the CDC’s PrEP practice guideline to improve PrEP prescribing (Publication No. 29261518) [Doctoral dissertation, Grand Canyon University]. ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global.

https://www.proquest.com/openview/b32001cc54613513b0b6630db9d8c670/1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=18750&diss=y

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Dr.Girlie Tiu

Faculty

Dr. Jennifer Obsania DNP MSN RN

Dr. Jennifer Obsania, DNP, MSN, RN

Assistant/Adjunct Professor

(347)-653-9754

jobsania@auhs.edu

Education

Doctor of Nursing Practice
Chamberlain College of Nursing, Chicago, IL

Master of Science in Nursing – Health Care Management / Nurse Executive
Long Island University, Brooklyn, NY

Bachelor of Science in Nursing
The Family Clinic College of Nursing, Manila, Philippines

BIO

Dr. Jennifer Obsania, DNP, MSN, RN, is a distinguished clinical nurse leader and healthcare executive with more than 25 years of progressive experience in nursing, case management, and healthcare operations. She is currently the RN Department Clinical Manager for Ambulatory Care Management at UCLA Faculty Practice Group, where she leads strategic initiatives related to staff onboarding, policy development, performance evaluation, and compliance with NCQA and CMS standards.

Her academic foundation includes a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Chamberlain College of Nursing (Summa Cum Laude, 2018), a Master of Science in Nursing with a focus in Health Care Management – Nurse Executive from Long Island University, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The Family Clinic College of Nursing in the Philippines.

Dr. Obsania has held pivotal leadership roles, including Director of Outpatient Case Management and the Renal Program at Regal Medical Group, and Clinical Director of the Emergency Department at Kaiser Permanente. In these roles, she spearheaded critical initiatives to reduce readmission rates, improve patient outcomes, and ensure audit readiness across complex regional systems.

She is also a dedicated nurse educator, serving as an adjunct professor in BSN, MSN, and DNP programs. She teaches courses in advanced medical-surgical nursing, leadership, theoretical frameworks, and global healthcare policy at institutions such as West Coast University and the American University of Health and Sciences.

Throughout her career, Dr. Obsania has been recognized for her ability to lead interdisciplinary teams, develop innovative care delivery models, and mentor future nurse leaders. She is actively involved in professional organizations, including the American Nurses Association (ANA), American Case Management Association (ACMA), America’s Physician Group (APG), and the Philippine American Case Management Association.

Intellectual Contribution

Poster Presentation | April 2024
Title: Promoting Wellness and Reducing ED and Hospital Admissions in a High-Risk Primary Care Patient Population through a Nurse-led Proactive Care Integrated Care Management Model, UCLA
Event: ACMA, Health Poster Presentation
Location: Nashville, Tennessee
Overview: This scholarly presentation showcased the effectiveness of a nurse-led, proactive care model designed to reduce emergency department utilization and hospital admissions among high-risk patients. The integrated care management approach emphasized early intervention, interdisciplinary coordination, and wellness promotion in primary care settings.

Dr.Sheryl Antido

Dr. Sheryl Antido

Faculty

santido@auhs.edu

Maria Shearing MSN Ed FNPc RN PHN MICN ENP

Maria Shearing, MSN-Ed, FNP(c), RN, PHN, MICN, ENPC

Assistant Dean and Associate Professor of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program (Clinical)

mshearing@auhs.edu

Education

DNP (In Progress), American University of Health Sciences
MSN Nurse Educator, American University of Health Sciences
MSN Family Nurse Practitioner, American University of Health Sciences
BSN, American University of Health Sciences
AA Emphasis in Social and Behavioral Sciences, Los Angeles Harbor College

Bio

Maria Shearing, MSN-Ed, FNP(c), RN, PHN, MICN, ENPC is the Assistant Dean of Affiliation and Clinical and an Associate Professor at American University of Health Sciences (AUHS) School of Nursing. She holds dual Master of Science in Nursing degrees in Nurse Education and Family Nurse Practitioner and is currently pursuing her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP).

Ms. Shearing teaches in both BSN and MSN programs, including courses such as Fundamentals, Medical-Surgical Nursing, Community Health, Leadership, and Nursing Education. She oversees all clinical instructors and coordinates with the clinical r over 250 student clinical placements annually, maintaining strong partnerships with healthcare institutions across LA County.

In addition to her academic leadership, she practices as a Registered Nurse in the Emergency Department at a Level I Trauma Center. Her clinical focus includes high-acuity emergency/trauma care, MICN, mentorship, and bilingual patient support.

Dedicated to serving underserved communities, she participates in street medicine programs providing care for homeless populations. Ms. Shearing is a member of the American Nurses Association, Sigma Theta Tau, and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners.

She has completed over 300 volunteer hours and continues to lead community outreach and student ministry efforts through AUHS and the AUHS Foundation.

Published Work / Educational Contributions

Currently developing a scholarly project focused on healthcare delivery to underserved and homeless populations, including the integration of street medicine programs. This work explores evidence-based strategies and resource development aimed at improving access to care and health outcomes for vulnerable groups. The project emphasizes community engagement, cultural competency, and interdisciplinary collaboration to address social determinants of health.

Subject Matter Expertise

Clinical Affiliation Coordination, Nursing Leadership, Emergency Nursing Care,Medical-Surgical Nursing, Community/Public Health, Fundamentals, Leadership, and Nursing Education, Clinical Site Development, Regulatory Compliance for Nursing Programs, Bilingual Patient Education (English/Spanish), Skills Lab, Training & Mentoring for Clinical Faculty

Research Interests

Health equity, Community-Based Care, improving access to healthcare for underserved and homeless populations, Integration of street medicine and mobile health outreach models within nursing practice and education, Culturally Competent Care Delivery, Social Determinants of Health, Development of Sustainable Resources: improving clinical outcomes for vulnerable groups,

Dr. Arvin Torres APRN FNP BC MSN NE MD

Dr. Arvin Torres, APRN, FNP-BC, MSN-NE, MD

Assistant Dean and Assistant Professor of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

atorres@auhs.edu

Education

MD, Far Eastern University, Philippines
Post Grad APRN-FNP, American University of Health Sciences
MSN, University of Phoenix
BSN, St. Jude College, Philippines
BS Biology, Far Eastern University, Philippines

Bio

Dr. Arvin Torres is a practicing Nurse Practitioner specializing in urgent care and a dedicated educator with a strong clinical and academic background. He has over four years of experience teaching in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, with a focus on medical-surgical nursing and pharmacology. In addition, he has taught nurse practitioner students in advanced pharmacology and pathology.

Subject Matter Expertise

Medical Surgical & Pharmacology

Joseph Francisco DNP MSN APRN FNP 1

Joseph Francisco, DNP, MSN, APRN, FNP

Nursing Graduate Program for School of Nursing

Assistant Professor for Nursing Graduate Program for School of Nursing

jfrancisco@auhs.edu

Education

DNP/PMHNP-University of Massachusetts Global,USA
MSN/FNP-Charles Drew University,USA
BSN, BS Biology, MAN, MD, LLB- Philippines

Bio

Pursuing his goals passionately, JOSEPH A. FRANCISCO delves into a combination of
clinical practice and academic mentorship in his professional life as a nurse practitioner.
At present, he imparts his expertise at Charles Drew University of Medicine and
Sciences and at the American University of Health Sciences as an assistant professor.
His determined and engaging way of conducting classes have gained the reciprocal
enthusiastic reaction of his appreciative students. He has firsthand experience as family
nurse practitioner at the Angeles Community Health Center, a continuation of his
consistency in this field from various previous establishments in this country.

Dr. Francisco obtained his Doctorate in Nursing Practice in 2019 from the University of
Massachusetts Global. He holds a double Masters in Nursing from the US and the
Philippines in 2017 and 2009 respectively. In addition, he was an accomplished Medical
Doctor and has a Iuris Doctor degree from his native Philippines. Prior to sharing his
professional proficiency abroad, he worked in government-run Manila Health
Department for 15 years, developing an intense and major understanding of community
health exigencies and challenges.

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Helena Calloway

Faculty

hcalloway@auhs.edu

Dr. Hazel Evalle DNP MSN FNP C

Dr. Hazel Evalle, DNP, MSN, FNP-C

Faculty

hevalle@auhs.edu

Education

Doctor of Nursing Practice – Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, University of Massachusetts Global (2025)
Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner, Charles Drew University (2013)

Bio

Dr. Hazel Evalle is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) through the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners, bringing over 20 years of robust clinical nursing experience to her practice. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice from the University of Massachusetts Global and her Master of Science in Nursing from Charles Drew University. As a dedicated Primary Care Nurse Practitioner specializing in internal medicine, Dr. Evalle is committed to maintaining her FNP certification and actively pursuing ongoing clinical and educational excellence throughout her distinguished career.

Dr. Evalle's clinical practice centers on patient care focused on health promotion and disease prevention, primarily delivered through comprehensive patient education. Her philosophy emphasizes empowering patients—particularly those at risk for chronic or debilitating conditions—to actively participate in their health journey. By imparting knowledge about chronic disease management, she strives to enhance patient outcomes and improve quality of life. Dr. Evalle is equally passionate about mentoring the next generation of nurses, instilling in her students the importance of health promotion and the profound impact that quality nursing care can have on individual well-being.

Board Certifications

Family Nurse Practitioner, American Academy of Nurse Practitioners

Specialties

Family Medicine – Nurse Practitioner

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Leonor Salalila

Faculty

admissions@auhs.edu

Manuel S. Atienza MD MSN FNP APRN CNP RN

Manuel S. Atienza, MD, MSN, FNP, APRN-CNP, RN

Faculty

matienza@auhs.edu

Dr. Gregorio L. De Grano PhD MSN APRN FNP C

Dr. Gregorio L. De Grano, PhD, MSN, APRN, FNP-C

Dean and Assistant Professor of Graduate Nursing Programs

(562 ) 988-2278

gdgrano@auhs.edu

Education

PhD, St. Dominic College, Philippines
MD, De La Salle University, Philippines
MSN, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science
BSN, Makati Medical Center College of Nursing, Philippines

Bio

Dr. Gregorio L. De Grano serves as the Dean of the Nursing Graduate Program and is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with over 25 years of clinical experience. He has worked extensively in Intensive Care (ICU), Progressive Care (PCU), Emergency Room, Medical-Surgical, Acute, and Intra-operative Hemodialysis settings. He specializes in Family and Primary Health Care, as well as Hospice and Palliative Care.

For over a decade, Dr. De Grano has shaped nursing education through his academic work. He prepares advanced practice nurses and future nursing leaders by emphasizing evidence-based care, interprofessional collaboration, and integrating ethics, cultural competence, and leadership into the curriculum.

Dr. De Grano leads with compassion and strongly believes in the power of mentorship. He actively supports the personal and professional development of students and faculty. Through his collaborative approach to curriculum development, he keeps nursing education innovative, relevant, and responsive to the rapidly evolving healthcare landscape.

Subject Matter Expertise

Health Systems and Nursing Informatics for APRN, Nursing Leadership, Ethics and Management, Primary Care of Adult and Elderly, Pathophysiology, Pharmacology

Scholarly Presentation

Continuing Education Speaker (CE/CME): Philippine Medical Alumni Association of Southern California – Challenges and Alternatives for Foreign Medical Graduates: Navigating the Transition to Advanced Nursing Practice Pathway

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Denise Jackson Gatewood, WHNP, MSN, RN, BSN

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

dgatewood@auhs.edu

Education

Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, Harbor UCLA Women’s Health NP Program
MSN, Chamberlain Nursing University, Palatine, IL
BSN, Chamberlain Nursing University, Palatine, IL

Bio

Denise (Dee) Jackson Gatewood contributes to teaching clinical courses for Women’s Health at AUHS. She is a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner with over 35 years of experience in Women's Health in clinical practice, academia, and leadership. Dee has an advanced degree from Chamberlain Nursing University for Nursing Executive Leadership and is a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner.

Dee has a rich background in maternal-child health, labor and delivery, and high-risk obstetrics. Dee is a mentor and educator, providing staff development, training, and in-service education to improve clinical outcomes.

She holds a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from Chamberlain College of Nursing and a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner Certificate from Los Angeles County UCLA Nurse Practitioner Program. Her expertise includes prenatal and postpartum care, reproductive health counseling, family planning, and managing high-risk obstetric cases.

Subject Matter Expertise

Maternal Child Health, High-Risk Antepartum, Intrapartum, and Postpartum Care

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Delaney Castle

Professor

admissions@auhs.edu

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Daniella De Andrade

Professor

admissions@auhs.edu

Crizelle Villarta Tan MSN Ed RN 1

Crizelle Villarta Tan, MSN-Ed, RN

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

Education

MSN Nursing Education, Chamberlain University
BSN, American University of Health Sciences

Bio

Crizelle Villarta Tan, MSN-Ed, RN, serves as adjunct faculty in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program and has been a registered nurse at St. Joseph Hospital, Orange, since 2020, specializing in post-surgical, cardiac, orthopedic, and stroke patient care within the Clinical Decision Unit.

Crizelle earned her Master of Science in Nursing Education from Chamberlain University and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the American University of Health Sciences. She is certified in Basic Life Support (BLS), Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS), and NIH Stroke Certification, underscoring her dedication to maintaining high standards in both education and patient care.

Subject Matter Expertise

Medical Surgical

Janet M. Kazibwe APRN NP MSN Edu RN PHN BSN

Janet M. Kazibwe, APRN-NP, MSN Edu, RN, PHN, BSN

Adjunct Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

jkazibwe@auhs.edu

Education

APRN Nurse Practitioner, American University of Health Sciences
MSN Education, University of Phoenix
BSN, University of Phoenix

Bio

Janet Kazibwe is a highly experienced nurse educator and clinical leader with over 30 years of service in medical-surgical nursing, education, and healthcare workforce development. She holds a Diploma in Advanced Nursing from Makerere University in Kampala, Uganda, and is a Registered Nurse and Midwife through the Medical Training College in Nairobi, Kenya.

Janet has taught extensively, including 15 years at Kenyatta National Hospital’s Medical Training College and the School of Nursing in Nairobi. She also served for 9 years as a clinical instructor and educator at the Nairobi Hospital School of Nursing.

Internationally, she has served as adjunct faculty in the United States—teaching in the Baccalaureate Nursing Program at Biola University (2002, 2010) and in Health Care Sciences at Rio Hondo College (2012). Janet’s deep commitment to nursing education, leadership training, and quality patient care continues to shape nursing professionals both in Kenya and abroad.

Subject Matter Expertise

Medical Surgical, Obstetrics

Selected Publications and Scholarly Presentations

Kazibwe, J. AIDS and HIV counselling for health care workers, patients and families [Poster presentation]. 12th International AIDS Conference, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland.

Denise Waller DNP MSN BSN

Denise Waller, DNP, MSN, BSN

Full-Time Faculty of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program

dwaller@auhs.edu

Education

DNP (In Progress), American University of Health Sciences
MSN Nurse Educator, American University of Health Sciences
MSN Family Nurse Practitioner, American University of Health Sciences
BSN, American University of Health Sciences

Bio

Ms. Denise Waller is Full -time Faculty Member at American University of Health Sciences (AUHS), bringing more than a decade of experience in nursing education, public health, and acute clinical care. Her professional background includes medical-surgical nursing, intensive care (ICU), direct observation units (DOU), palliative care, skilled nursing, and community health—with a strong commitment to patient-centered, evidence-based practice.

She currently serves as a Public Health Nurse with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. Previously, she worked as a Registered Nurse at Centinela Hospital Medical Center, where she provided critical care to patients with life-threatening conditions, including those affected by COVID-19. These clinical roles refined her expertise in diagnostic interpretation, hemodynamic monitoring, and emergency response.

Earlier in her career, Ms. Denise served as a Licensed Vocational Nurse at several healthcare institutions, including West Los Angeles Veterans Medical Center, UCLA – Les Kelley Medical Center, and LAC-USC Women’s and Children’s Hospital. These experiences gave her comprehensive skills in outpatient procedures, laboratory testing, patient education, and collaborative care planning.

In her academic role at AUHS, she teaches and mentors BSN students in both didactic and clinical courses. She is highly regarded for her adaptable, compassionate teaching style that inspires students to grow into ethical, confident, and competent nursing professionals.

Ms. Waller is a proud member of Sigma Theta Tau, the international honor society of nursing, and is actively pursuing her Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) with a focus on underserved populations and healthcare access.

Published Work / Educational Contributions

Currently developing a scholarly project focused on healthcare delivery to underserved and homeless populations, with an emphasis on integrating street medicine programs. The project explores evidence-based strategies, community partnerships, and interdisciplinary models to improve access and health outcomes for vulnerable groups.

Subject Matter Expertise

Nursing Education, Acute and Critical Care Nursing, Community and Public Health, Medical-Surgical, Community Health Science, Community Health Nursing Care, Basic Leadership & Management in Nursing.

Research Interests

Ms. Waller is researching healthcare provider bias in the treatment of pain among minority and underserved pregnant patients. Her work examines how implicit bias, and systemic inequities contribute to the under-treatment of pain and the frequent mislabeling of patients as drug-seeking during prenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum care.

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Sadeg Aldolaim

Professor

admissions@auhs.edu

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Pedro Morante

Faculty

admissions@auhs.edu

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Michael Vallez

Professor

admissions@auhs.edu

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Maryam Modirrousta

Faculty

admissions@auhs.edu

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Anatalia Andaya

Faculty

admissions@auhs.edu

Brent Aspiras MSN Ed. BS RN 1

Brent Aspiras, MSN-Ed., BS, RN

Adjunct Instructor

baspiras@auhs.edu

Education

MSN, American University of Health Sciences
BSN, American University of Health Sciences
BS, California State University, Long Beach

Bio

Brent Aspiras contributes to the didactic and clinical courses in the school of nursing, where he has been teaching for 6 years. He is the lead instructor for Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing Care.

Brent holds a master's degree in nursing education and a bachelor's degree in nursing from the American University of Health Sciences and a bachelor's degree in biology from California State University of Long Beach.

Subject Matter Expertise

Psychiatric/Mental Health Nursing, Psychosocial Aspects of Nursing Healthcare

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Felor Abbasnejad

Faculty

fabbasnejad@auhs.edu

Education

BSN, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

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Marco Anttenello

Faculty

admissions@auhs.edu

Dr. Michelle Paysan Modina DNP MBA APRN AGNP C 600x600 1

Dr. Michelle Paysan-Modina, DNP, MBA, APRN, AGNP-C

Executive Dean and Professor of the School of Nursing Programs

Assistant Chief Nurse Administrator

mpaysanmodina@auhs .edu

Education

DNP, University of Massachusetts Global
MBA, William Howard Taft University
MSN, California State University, Long Beach
BSN, California State University, Los Angeles

Bio

Dr. Modina is the Executive Dean, Professor, and Assistant Chief Nurse Administrator at the School of Nursing. She is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner and a highly regarded nurse executive with over 30 years of experience in clinical practice, academia, and leadership. Dr. Modina holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from UMass Global (formerly known as Brandman University) and advanced nursing degrees from California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) and California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA).

Her diverse nursing background includes ICU, ER, telemetry, primary care, women’s health, oncology, hospice, and palliative care. She is highly skilled in curriculum design, program assessment and development, accreditation, operations management, advising, and faculty development.

She is currently serving as a CCNE Evaluator for AACN and as an advisor and past president of the Philippine Nurses Association, Orange County chapter. A passionate advocate for student success, professional advancement, and team building, she is dedicated to creating inclusive, high-impact learning environments that empower individuals and transform the landscape of healthcare education.

Subject Matter Expertise

Leadership, Education, Transitions to Professional Practice, Adult/Gerontology Primary Care, Curriculum Design, Program Assessment and Development, Advising, Mentorship, Strategic Planning

Selected Publications and Scholarly Presentations

2025 April. Poster Presentation. NCLEX Style Questions in Nursing Simulation Leading to Student Success WASC Senior College and University Commission Conference. Garden Grove, CA

2025 March. Poster Presentation. Breast Cancer Screening Among Filipino Americans: Attitudes, Barriers, and Cultural Insights. The National Coalition of Ethnic Minority Nurse Associations Annual Summit. Los Angeles, CA.

2023 June. Poster Presentation. Creating a Diversity Task Force for a Professional Ethnic Minority Nursing Association Using the Roy Adaptation Model as a Guide. 2023 Roy Adaptation Association International Conference at Mount Saint Mary’s University, Los Angeles, California.

2022, May. Guest Speaker Panelist. How do Nurse Leaders in Practice and Nurse Education Manage Diversity and Inclusivity for LGBTQI+ + Members? Philippine Nurses Association of America, Southern California Spring Educational Conference at Monterey Park, California