Faculty

Adjunct Professor

Biography

Dr. Marissa Brash holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biochemistry from the University of San Francisco, a Master of Public Health Degree in Biostatistics from Loma Linda University, a Doctor of Public Health Degree in Epidemiology from Loma Linda University, and a Doctor of Education Degree in Mind, Brain, Teaching from Johns Hopkins University. She is also Certified in Public Health by the National Board of Public Health Examiners. Dr. Brash has a passion for teaching while also working on curriculum design, accreditation standards, program implementation, evaluation, and assessment. She is interested in integrating curriculum through interprofessional education efforts between the public health, nursing, health administration, business, mathematics, and social and behavioral health sectors of higher learning healthcare. Her research interests focus on health equity in public health, with an emphasis on epigenetic-based autoimmune public health prevention, neuroeducation, and food insecurity. Additionally, she sits on the Medical Science Advisory Board for Global Genes, a non-profit serving the rare disease community.

Courses

• MPH535- Applied Epidemiology
• MPH560- Methods of Research in Public Health
• MPH570- Community Health
• MPH575- Communication and Social Marketing Health Promotion and Education

Education

• BS Biochemistry, The University of San Francisco
• MPH Biostatistics, Loma Linda University
• DrPH Epidemiology, Loma Linda University
• EdD Mind, Brain, Teaching, John Hopkins University

Adjunct Professor

Biography

My name is Garrett Brief

I have been licensed to practice law in California for over 20 years with a focus on personal injury law. Believe or not, I graduated from Gonzaga Law School in 1995 (according to my teenage kids I’m a boomer) and my undergraduate degree is from UC Santa Barbara, Political Science honors department. While in law school I tutored fellow classmates in Civil Procedure and tried to bring some humor to an otherwise sleeper of a subject.

I hope I will be able to put my real-world experience to work for you.

When I am not working or keeping tabs on said teenagers and two dogs, I devote my free time to helping feed fellow Long Beach residents. I am a board member of two organizations which rescue food and provide weekend meals to disadvantaged elementary school students. Most of these students receive subsidized breakfast and lunch during the school week but go hungry on the weekends.

I am teaching this class because I hope to peak your interest in how law and health care intersect. The law can feel stale and old, but it impacts our lives daily and has a significant impact on the health care system. I strive to teach, listen and support you in this class. Please remember you are not alone here. I am here to help. Please also remember that there is no such thing as a bad or dumb question. Do not be embarrassed to ask questions, ask them often, and ask them early. I am available through postings to the general course questions forum, email or cell phone.

If you do call, please call prior to 9:00PM PST and try to avoid Sunday calls if you can: 949-636-2038. Make sure to leave your full name and your contact phone number. I will call you back within 24 hours of your message.

Let’s get started!!!

Adjunct Professor

Biography

Evelyn Credo, serves as the AVP of Training and Education at Elevate Patient Financial Solutions, with over 15 years of experience in Revenue Cycle Management in healthcare and Human Resources. In this role, she leads strategic initiatives to cultivate a learning culture that aligns with the organization’s objectives, focusing on talent development and equipping employees with the skills to drive organizational success.

Evelyn’s career began as a patient advocate, supporting uninsured and underinsured populations. Her passion for serving vulnerable communities inspired her to pursue leadership in healthcare, where she combines her expertise in finance, human resources, and healthcare management. She also teaches undergraduate Healthcare Management courses, serves on the Advisory Board for the MHA graduate program at Concordia University Irvine and volunteers under ACHE’s Early Careerist Council to foster growth mentality for all incoming professionals. Outside of work, Evelyn enjoys traveling to warm beaches, camping, and spending quality time with her family.

Education

• B.S. Health Science – California State University Fullerton
• M.S. Healthcare Administration – Concordia University Irvine

Adjunct Professor

Biography

Yasmine Ghazvini is a distinguished healthcare professional with profound expertise in operations, strategy, and business development. Currently, she serves as a Strategy & Business Development Consultant at MemorialCare, where she plays a pivotal role in guiding strategic planning and decision-making for an array of initiatives critical to the Long Beach Medical Center and Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital. Her previous tenure at Providence saw her excel in optimizing the Neuro-Interventional Surgery program and spearheading process improvement initiatives.

Yasmine's academic credentials are impressive, with a Master of Health Administration degree, complemented by a certificate in Ambulatory Care and Long-Term Care from the University of Southern California, and a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health from San Diego State University. Additionally, she is a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and holds a prominent position on the Board of Directors for ACHE of Southern California as the LA Programs Council Chair. Outside of her professional endeavors, Yasmine is passionate about exercising, photography, and exploring diverse culinary experiences.

Adjunct Professor

Biography

Keya Gupta serves as an Organizational Consultant IV at UCI Health in Orange County, CA. She recently completed her Administrative Fellowship at CalOptima Health (2023-2024), a managed care organization providing healthcare coverage for residents in Orange County, California. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Social Behavior from the University of California, Irvine, as well as a Master's in Healthcare Administration from Concordia University Irvine.

Keya's personal and professional experiences have ignited her unwavering commitment to advancing health equity. Additionally, she possesses a keen interest in exploring innovative approaches to strategic planning that can address the multifaceted challenges confronting the healthcare industry today. Beyond these academic pursuits, Keya actively contributes to the field by serving on the board of directors for the Southern California chapters of both the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE). Through these roles, she channels some of her passion into uplifting and creating safe spaces for future healthcare leaders, fostering lifelong learning, and giving back to the community. Keya received the ACHE Chapter Regent's Award for Early Careerists in 2022. In 2023, she received the ACHE Chapter President's Award and the graduate Alumni of the Year award from her alma mater, Concordia University Irvine. In 2024, she received the Outstanding Leadership Award from the Health 2.0 Conference in Las Vegas, NV.

Adjunct Professor

Biography

Briana Hammonds is currently a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and has experience in working in community mental health. Briana has experience working with a variety of populations that include: children, adolescents, families, young adults, and adults. She has previous academic experience as an instructor in the Townsend Institute’s Master of Arts in Counseling.

Briana’s interest in mental health was ignited during her educational experience at Sonoma State university. She has a passion for working with individuals who have survived trauma and is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). She enjoys working with adolescents and teens to assist and empower clients to make choices for change. Along with pursuing a career in academia as an adjunct professor Briana continues to work with her clients in Orange County at a Medical contract agency.

Education

• B.A. Psychology, Sonoma State University
• M.S., CSU Fullerton

Adjunct Professor

Biography

Hello my name is Professor Reginald Hannah. I am originally from Milwaukee, WI and I have resided in Southern California for 20 plus years. I first started my career in finance, specifically dealer finance. For 10 plus years, I worked for General Electric (GE), and the west coast headquarters of Hyundai. I got my start in healthcare 2012 working as an EPIC credential trainer for Loma Linda hospital. I then worked for Kaiser Permanente as a contractor for their outpatient pharmacy system. I currently work as a senior clinical informaticist at Providence St. Joseph Heritage for nine years. I possess an AA in IT, Bachelor of Science in Computers, MBA from (Concordia University Irvine), and an EPIC certification in clinical informatics. My wife, Dr. Sheila Hannah, is a current faculty for the MCAA program at Concordia University Irvine. I love to read, travel, game (yes game since the 80’s), museums, technology, sports (Green Bay Packers - Go Pack Go), movies (all genre’s), and the outdoors. Most of all I love God, family, and his people. I stay positive because of my faith in God and try to help as many people as I can, which is why I am an instructor.

Adjunct Professor

Biography

With over seven years of experience in healthcare marketing and sales, Holly brings a diverse background of knowledge and expertise to the academic community at Concordia University Irvine. Holly earned both a Master of Healthcare Administration and a Bachelor of Arts in Healthcare Management from Concordia University Irvine, demonstrating a strong foundation in the field and deep understanding of the values of the university. As a healthcare leader, Holly has excelled in strategic planning, relationship development, and multidisciplinary team management, driving growth and innovation in various healthcare settings.

Holly is dedicated to fostering dynamic learning environments that prepare students for successful careers in healthcare management. Her curriculum development skills and commitment to mentorship ensure that students receive a comprehensive education that bridges theory and practice. Holly actively participates in community outreach and professional organizations, including the MHA Student Council and ACHE SoCal, where she contributes to the advancement of healthcare education and practice. Recognized for their innovation and leadership, Holly has received multiple awards, including the AUPHA Bugbee-Falk Book Award and the AUPHA Foster McGaw Scholarship. With a reputation for being highly organized, creative, and relationship-oriented, Holly is committed to making a positive impact on both the academic and healthcare communities.

Adjunct Professor

Biography

Lauren Illescas is a highly analytical leader with extensive experience in driving organizational growth and enhancing operational efficiency. Lauren excels in strategic planning, process improvement, and operational efficiency, with notable achievements in managing integrations and fostering client-centric environments. She is recognized for her servant leadership approach, particularly during challenging post acquisition change management projects.

She holds a Master's in Healthcare Administration and a Bachelor's in Business Administration and Leadership from Concordia University. Additionally, she is an Adjunct Professor at Concordia University Irvine.

Associate Professor

Biography

Dr. Robert 'Todd' Kane, an accomplished healthcare and business professional with a diverse background in business leadership, healthcare administration and operations, human resources, and higher education, brings over two decades of experience to his roles in the healthcare sector and academia. With an impressive array of academic accomplishments including an EdD in Higher Education Leadership, an MBA in Healthcare Administration, and multiple other advanced degrees, Dr. Kane has cultivated a robust understanding of the intersection between healthcare systems and organizational leadership. His tenure as President and CEO of a national, Joint Commission Certified, healthcare human resources, staffing and recruitment firm, along with senior management roles at various healthcare organizations, underscores his capacity to drive strategic initiatives, ensure operational excellence, and foster organizational growth.

Dr. Kane’s extensive experience in healthcare, in both the public and private sectors, has allowed him the opportunity to work with various stakeholders to enhance healthcare delivery, drive results and outcomes, and work strategically to improve lives of patients, employees, and communities. Dr. Kane’s ability to navigate the complex healthcare regulatory environment is second to none. His ability to engage stakeholders, oversee budgeting and financial operations, analyze and act on data, and address challenges with a solutions-oriented approach has contributed greatly to his success.

In his academic career, Dr. Kane has served in various faculty and leadership positions at esteemed institutions of higher learning. His expertise in instructional design and curriculum development has enabled him to create and deliver innovative, learner-centered educational experiences focused on continuous quality improvement and positive student outcomes. Dr. Kane's dedication to professional development and student success is evident in his award-winning teaching and the positive feedback from his students. Dr. Kane is a Certified Course Reviewer for Quality Matters and has built and evaluated numerous courses with a focus on quality. Dr. Kane has served as a subject-matter expert and written and developed dozens of courses over the years.

Dr. Kane is a dedicated faculty member with a unique ability to focus on both student success and organizational/departmental success. His work in course and program development, educational effectiveness, and various institutional initiatives is demonstrative of his ability to add value, resolve complex issues, and ensure the success of his students and colleagues.

Courses

• MPH525- Health Policy and Management
• MPH540- Leadership and Organizational Management in Health Services

Education

• MEd in Organizational Leadership
• MBA in Healthcare Administration
• EdD in Higher Ed Leadership

Adjunct Professor

Biography

Rodney Mardirosian is currently serving as a Senior Manager in Business Development at UCI Health. With a career marked by dedication and excellence, Rodney has excelled in various healthcare leadership roles, establishing himself as an asset in the industry. In his current role at UCI Health, Rodney collaborates with neurosurgeons, orthopedic surgeons, and neurologists. His expertise in business development has been instrumental in fostering relationships and partnerships that ensure the best possible patient experience and care. Prior to his current role, Rodney held the position of Manager of Physician Development at Adventist Health, where he played a role in shaping and expanding their healthcare initiatives. His dedication and results-oriented approach and ability to connect people, lead him to Business Development.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Rodney is also known for his commitment to education and community involvement. He serves as an Adjunct Professor at Concordia University- Irvine. Additionally, he serves on the board of directors for the Campbell Center, a non-profit that partners with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, empowering them to successfully gain independence and attain their desired outcomes through opportunity and choice. Formally recognized for excellence in leadership with the Cedars-Sinai President’s Award and American College of Healthcare Executives Regent’s Early Career Healthcare Executive Award. Rodney maintains an active membership in the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE).

Adjunct Professor

Biography

Cesar Rivas-Sanchez manages the Performance Excellence portfolio at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA), one of the nation’s leading children’s hospitals, working as a Program Manager for Decision Support Services and Strategy. Cesar has a strong background in health care strategy, previously leading strategic planning initiatives, service line growth and business development at Arrowhead Regional Medical Center (ARMC) in San Bernardino County. Prior to his work in strategy, Cesar completed an Administrative Residency with the Clinical Services department at CHLA and worked as a Research Coordinator with the USC Keck School of Medicine.

Cesar currently serves as President for the Southern California chapter of the National Association of Latino Healthcare Executives (NALHE) and previously served as a Board member for the local chapter of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE). He holds a bachelor’s degree in Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Studies with a minor in Health Policy and a master’s degree in Health Administration from the University of Southern California.

Adjunct Professor

Biography

Vivahni (Viva) Shastry is a Senior Manager on the Digital Transformation Team at Optum where she oversees digital patient engagement products from strategy formation to product launch and future enhancements. Prior to her current role, Viva was with Children's Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) as a Data & Analytics Manager where she supported the creation of a data lake & built streamlined processes to access that data and use it to improve patient & provider outcomes. Viva has always been passionate about quality of care, specifically in the mental health space. After she obtained her Master's degree in Health Administration from the University of Southern California, she worked as a Quality Coordinator in CHLA's Developmental Disabilities department working with clinicians to decrease wait times, improve patient outcomes, and build a foundation with key quality metrics. Viva is an active member and prior Board member for the local chapter of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE). In Viva's spare time, she enjoys staying active with her Mini Australian Shepherd, Cleopatra.

Program Director and Professor

Biography

Dr. Sinardi holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from St. Cloud State University and a Master's degree in Counseling from California State University, Long Beach. She became a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in 2006. In 2011, Dr. Sinardi completed her Doctor of Education degree in Organizational Leadership at the University of La Verne.

Professional Experience

Since 2013, Dr. Catherine Sinardi has worked with the healthcare programs at Concordia University Irvine. She is the Director of the Master of Healthcare Administration and Bachelor of Arts in Healthcare Management. As a Professor, she develops and teaches a variety of courses in the aforementioned programs. Dr. Sinardi currently serves on the board of directors for the Healthcare Executives of Southern California as the Chair of Academic Affairs. Previously, she was Regional Director of Clinical Services at Children’s Institute and Director of Quality Assurance and Program Evaluation at Counseling4Kids, both in the greater Los Angeles area. She also worked in private practice as a licensed counselor and held various administrative positions at ChildNet Youth and Family Services in Long Beach.

Courses

• MPH500- Foundations in Public Health
• MPH515- Principles of Health Behaviors

Education

• Ed.D. Organizational Leadership, University of La Verne
• MFT Counseling, California State University Long Beach

Publications

• Scheinfeld, E., Barney, K., Gangi, K., Nelson, E. & Sinardi, C. (2023). Moving forward in compounded grief: Communicated resilience after COVID-19 related losses. Western Journal of Communication.
• Scheinfeld, E., Barney, K., Gangi, K., Nelson, E. & Sinardi, C. (2021). Filling the void: Grieving and healing during a socially isolating global pandemic. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships.
• Scheinfeld, E., Gangi, K., Nelson, E. & Sinardi, C. (2021). Please scream inside your heart: Compounded loss and coping during the COVID-19 pandemic. Health Communication. 

Manuscript Under Review

• Scheinfeld, E., Barney, K., Gangi, K., Nelson, E. & Sinardi, C. (Under Review). Moving forward in compounded grief: Communicated resilience after COVID-19 related losses. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships.

Adjunct Professor

Biography

Jonathan Westall, FACHE is currently the Vice President of Ancillary Services at MLK Jr. Community Hospital in South Los Angeles. He previously held multiple positions at Huntington Hospital in Pasadena including Manager of Security, Director of Security, and finally Director of Support Services. Prior to working in the acute care setting, Jonathan oversaw Security, Emergency Response, and Parking operations for Sony PlayStation and its subsidiary groups across the United States. Jonathan spent 8 years working in various Federal, State, and local correctional facilities where he oversaw security operations for an incarcerated population.

Jonathan holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice w/ a minor in Sociology from Upper Iowa University and a Master’s degree in Law Enforcement Administration from Grand Canyon University. He is also a graduate of ACHE’s Senior Executive Program. He is a volunteer leader with IAHSS and was the LA/OC Chapter Chair for 3 years, and now The International Board’s VP/Secretary. He also chaired The Hospital Association of Southern California’s Safety and Security Committee from 2018 to 2020 and remains an active member. He is currently The Vice-Chair of Sponsorship with HCE.

Jonathan is a native of Massachusetts and is a huge Boston sports fan. He enjoys hiking, working out, and true crime documentaries.

Adjunct Professor

Biography

Dr. Jen Zamzow completed her Ph.D. in philosophy with a minor in cognitive science from the University of Arizona followed by a postdoctoral fellowship in the Department of Philosophy and the Center for Ethics and Policy at Carnegie Mellon University. In addition to her academic publications in ethics, Dr. Zamzow also writes about mental health and wellbeing for popular publications such as The Washington Post, CNBC, Insider, Fortune, Success, Good Housekeeping, Christianity Today, Sojourners, Common Good Magazine, and Psychology Today.

Courses

• MPH545- Vocation and Ethics in Public Health

 Education

•  BA Azusa Pacific University, Philosophy and Psychology
•  PhD University of Arizona, Philosophy, minor in Cognitive Science