Author Bios
Aaron Barber, AT, ATC, PES
Sports Medicine
Aaron Barber, AT, ATC, PES received his degree in athletic training from the College of Mount St. Joseph in 2013. After which, he earned his certification to be an athletic trainer from the national board and his license to practice in Ohio. During his undergraduate, his clinical experiences included working with the softball, football, and women's soccer team. He joined the Nationwide Children's Sports Medicine team in July of 2013 and is currently the assistant athletic trainer and head strength and conditioning coach at Bexley High School. Being a former collegiate athlete, he enjoys working with the high school athletes and helping them improve their performance and reduce their risk of injury. He loves seeing individuals grow both as students and athletes, which fuels his passion for athletic training. He enjoys being a part of the Sports Medicine team and the Bexley community.
Abbie Roth, MWC
Marketing and Public Relations
Abbie Roth, MWC, is a passionate communicator of science. As the managing editor for science communication at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, she shares stories about innovative research and discovery with audiences ranging from parents to preeminent researchers and leaders. Before coming to Nationwide Children’s, Abbie used her communication skills to engage audiences with a wide variety of science topics. As a subject-matter expert, she developed content for science education materials for McGraw-Hill Education, bringing science concepts to life for middle and high school aged students. She also provided technical editing for manuscripts spanning the American Chemical Society journal portfolio, in addition to serving as production lead for ACS Synthetic Biology. Abbie earned her BS in Life Sciences at Otterbein University while working at the Tan & Cardinal newspaper and minoring in Public Relations. She is a Medical Writer Certified®, credentialed by the American Medical Writers Association.
Abby Orkis, MSW, LSW
Social Work
Abby Orkis practices as a Medical Clinical Social Worker in both the Perinatal & Inpatient AIM Teams [Palliative Care] at Nationwide Children's Hospital.
Adam Ostendorf, MD
Neurology
Adam Ostendorf, MD, is an attending pediatric neurologist at Nationwide Children's Hospital and assistant professor of Clinical Pediatrics and Neurology at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. He completed medical school at The University of Iowa, followed by pediatric neurology residency and clinical neurophysiology/pediatric epilepsy fellowship with emphasis in critical care neurology at St. Louis Children's Hospital and Washington University in St. Louis. He is board certified in neurology with special qualification in child neurology and board eligible in clinical neurophysiology and epilepsy. He is a member of the critical care neurology and surgical epilepsy teams at Nationwide Children's Hospital. His clinical interests include critical care neurology, continuous EEG, and drug resistant epilepsy with a focus on epilepsy surgery.
Adriane Baylis, PhD, CCC-SLP
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Adriane Baylis, PhD, CCC-SLP, is a speech scientist, craniofacial speech pathologist and director of the Velopharyngeal Dysfunction Program. She is also an assistant professor of clinical plastic surgery, speech and hearing science, and pediatrics at The Ohio State University. Her clinical interests include perceptual and instrumental assessment of velopharyngeal dysfunction in children with cleft palate and other craniofacial anomalies. Her research focuses on measurement of speech outcomes in children with cleft palate and the multifactorial nature of speech disorders and velopharyngeal dysfunction in 22q11.2 deletion syndrome.
Adrienne M. Flood, CPNP-AC
Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction
Adrienne (Addie) Flood, CPNP-AC, serves as an advance practitioner nurse at the Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction (CCPR) at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Addie was inspired to join the CCPR Team in 2018 after having cared for many of our patients in the Critical Care unit of Nationwide Children’s, where she served as an acute care pediatric nurse practitioner. Her experiences in that acute setting, as well as her experience as a clinical pediatric dietitian, bring a level of expertise to the CCPR patients for whom she facilitates care throughout their hospitalization. Her skilled attention to these patients promotes continuity across the continuum of their inpatient to outpatient care.
Advanced Healthcare Provider Council
Akua A. Amponsah Chrappah, MD
Akua Amponsah, MD, is an attending physician in the Section of Hospital Pediatrics and the Division of Primary Care Pediatrics at Nationwide Children's Hospital and a Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. She completed medical school at Wayne State University in Detroit Michigan and did her pediatric training at Children's Hospital of Michigan also in Detroit. Dr. Amponsah's clinical interests include all aspects of general pediatrics. She is especially interested in child advocacy and health for our children in urban settings. She is board certified in pediatrics.
Alaina White, AT, ATC
Sports Medicine
Alaina White, AT, ATC, is an athletic trainer at Nationwide Children's Hospital and an assistant athletic trainer, working with Football and Softball, at Ohio Dominican University. Prior to Nationwide Children's Hospital, Alaina worked as an athletic trainer in Lexington, KY for 10 years at Transylvania University and Lexington Clinic. She received her Masters degree from Eastern Kentucky University and her Bachelors degree from Ohio University.
Alana Milton, MD
Primary Care Pediatrics
Alana Milton, MD, is a staff physician in the Section of Primary Care Pediatrics at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and an assistant professor of clinical pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. After completing her residency at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in 2005, she became a hospitalist for five years before returning to Nationwide Children's as an attending in the Emergency Department. She joined the section of Primary Care Pediatrics in 2016 and currently provides direct patient care and supervises residents at Nationwide Children’s Hospital Downtown Primary Care Center. She is a certified lactation counselor and is a co-leader in the Primary Care Network’s breastfeeding quality improvement efforts.
Alecia Jayne, AuD
Audiology
Dr. Alecia Jayne received her AuD through the Northeast Ohio AuD Consortium in 2007 and joined the Nationwide Children's Hospital audiology team in 2008. Her interests include diagnostics, hearing aids, and cochlear implants. Dr. Jayne enjoys working with children and their families to provide the best care for a bright future.
Alena Schuckmann
The Center for Family Safety and Healing
Alena Schuckmann is the Digital Communications Specialist for The Center for Family Safety and Healing. Alena graduated with a degree in communications and a minor in art from Bellarmine University in Louisville, Kentucky. Alena is a skilled digital content creator who has had various articles and photographs published locally and nationwide.
Alessandra Gasior, DO
Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction (CCPR)
Dr. Gasior is the medical director of Colorectal Transitional Care at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and she is a surgeon with The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center’s Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery to help ensure that patients with colorectal conditions have a smooth transition of care once they reach adulthood. She has performed over 350 complex pediatric colorectal cases including minimally invasive and robotic surgeries. Her experience with adult patients is vast, including over 500 adult colorectal cases.
Alex Kemper, MD
Primary Care Pediatrics
Alex R. Kemper, MD, MPH, MS, is the division chief of Primary Care Pediatrics at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and professor of pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Dr. Kemper completed his pediatric residency training at Duke University followed by combined fellowship training in health services research and medical informatics with residency training in preventive medicine at the University of North Carolina. His research focuses of a wide range of preventive services. Dr. Kemper is a former member of the US Preventive Services Task Force. He serves as the Chair of the Condition Review Workgroup for the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Advisory Committee on Heritable Disorders in Newborns and Children. Dr. Kemper is also the Deputy Editor of Pediatrics.
Alexandra Funk, PharmD, DABAT
Central Ohio Poison Center
Alexandra R. Funk, PharmD, DABAT, is a clinical toxicologist and the director of the Central Ohio Poison Center.
Alexis Klenke, RD, LD
Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition
Alexis Klenke is a registered and licensed dietitian with the Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition at Nationwide Children's Hospital. Alexis is certified in pediatric weight management through the American Dietetic Association.
Alice Bass, CPNP-PC
Advanced Illness Management
Alice Bass, APRN, is a pediatric nurse practitioner with the advanced illness management team at Nationwide Children's Hospital. Alice received her BA from Miami University, Oxford, Ohio and her MSN from Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA. She holds a sub-specialty in pediatric palliative care and is board certified as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner - Primary Care through PNCB. Prior to joining Nationwide Children's, Alice was a pediatric hematology and oncology nurse.
Alison Pegg
Marketing and Public Relations
Alison Pegg is a digital account manager on the interactive marketing team at Nationwide Children's Hospital, where she creates digital strategy for the Nationwide Children's Foundation and US News ranked service lines.
Allen A. Kadado, MD
Allen A. Kadado, MD, is a faculty member of the Department of Orthopaedics at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. He received his medical degree from Wayne State University, School of Medicine and completed his residency at Henry Ford Health System in Detroit, Michigan.
Allison Rowland, AT, ATC
Sports Medicine
Allison Rowland, AT, ATC is a board-certified and Ohio licensed athletic trainer for Nationwide Children’s Sports Medicine. She graduated from Defiance College in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Athletic Training.
Allison Strouse, MS, AT, ATC
Sports Medicine
Allison Strouse, MS, AT, ATC is a licensed and certified athletic trainer with Nationwide Children's Hospital Sports Medicine and an assistant athletic trainer at Ohio Dominican University. She graduated with a BS in athletic training at Aquinas College in 2010, and completed her master's degree in exercise science at the University of Toledo in 2012, Allison was hired as a post-graduate intern at the University of Michigan, working primarily with the men's and women's cross-country and track & field teams. From there she worked as an assistant athletic trainer at Alma College in Alma, Michigan before joining the Sports Medicine Team at Nationwide Children's Hospital. Over the course of her career, Allison has had the privilege of working with Olympic athletes, and has spent time volunteering with the sports medicine program at the United States Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, CO.
Amanda Smith, RN, BSN, CPN
22q Center
Amanda Smith, RN, BSN, CPN is clinical leader and team coordinator for the Cleft Lip and Palate Center, the Center for Complex Craniofacial Disorders and the 22q Center at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She graduated from the Hocking College School of Nursing and received her BSN from Ohio University. Amanda has been a member of the Cleft Lip and Palate Center team since 2012 and currently serves on the Membership Committee of the American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association. She is dedicated to educating families and advocating for children with facial differences.
Amanda Sonk, LMT
Clinical Therapies
Mandy Sonk, LMT, graduated from Capital University in 1999 with a degree in psychology and criminology. She became a licensed massage therapist in 2006. Prior to working at Nationwide Children's, Mandy worked for the State of Ohio for 12 years and most recently at OSU’s Center for Integrative Medicine as a LMT. Since 2012 Mandy has worked as an inpatient massage therapist on the rehab floor. Her primary interests are with traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries and is certified in pediatric massage. Besides feeling blessed to be a part of the Nationwide Children's team, she has a 6 year old daughter (Loren) and a 3 year old son (Collin) along with a terrific husband. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with family, going to concerts, movies and sporting events.
Amanda Whitaker, MD
Orthopedics
Amanda T. Whitaker, MD, is a faculty member of the department of orthopaedic surgery and director of the Gait Lab. She is native to central Ohio. She received her medical degree with special qualifications in biomedical research from the Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University. After completing her residency at the University of California San Francisco, she completed her pediatric orthopaedic fellowship at Boston Children's Hospital. Her clinical interests include pediatric neuromuscular conditions, limb deformity, metabolic bone diseases and skeletal dysplasias, scoliosis, and trauma. Dr. Whitaker is a member of the Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America, Orthopaedic Research Society, Limb Lengthening and Reconstruction Society, American Academy for Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine, America Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, Orthopaedic Trauma Association, and Ruth Jackson Orthopedic Society.
Amber Patterson, MD
Allergy and Immunology
Amber M. Patterson, MD works in the Section of Allergy and Immunology at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. As a wife and mother of three, she is passionate about harnessing efficiency to create time. Her current projects to make allergy care more efficient include: researching intralymphatic immunotherapy (a new form of allergy shots), innovating allergy/immunology education, and inventing better ways to test and treat for allergies. Dr. Patterson wants to teach her patients how to feel better quicker and stay healthy longer. The Pattersons enjoy being outdoors (playing, biking, swimming, gardening), reading, and rooting for the Buckeyes. OH-!
Amit Lahoti, MD
Endocrinology
Amit Lahoti, MD, is an attending physician in the Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and an Associate Professor of Pediatrics at The Ohio State University. He is also the Program Director for Pediatric Endocrinology Fellowship program.
Amy Coleman, LISW
Behavioral Health
Amy Coleman, LISW-S, has many years of experience working with children and families in community and private mental health settings. Amy’s clinical background has focused primarily on working with youth with depression and anxiety disorders. Currently, Amy is a member of the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Center for Suicide Prevention and Research.
Amy Dunn, MD
Hematology, Oncology and BMT
Amy Dunn, MD, received her medical degree from Wright State University School of Medicine in Dayton, Ohio and completed her pediatric and pediatric hematology/oncology training at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. She is an Associate Professor of Pediatrics at Nationwide Children's Hospital/Ohio State University where she is the Director of Pediatric Hematology and directs the Hemophilia Treatment Center. She is a member of various professional associations including the American Society of Hematology, World Federation of Hemophilia, The International Society of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, the International Pediatric Hemophilia Network, the International Prophylaxis Study Group and the Hemophilia and Thrombosis Research Society (HTRS). Dr. Dunn has served as a reviewer for hematologic journals including the Journal of Pediatric Blood and Cancer, the Journal of Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Blood and Hemophilia. She has published numerous peer-reviewed articles, abstracts, and textbook chapters. In addition, she has given many presentations at national and international medical conferences and has received awards that include US News and World Report Top Doctors and the Atlanta Business Chronicle Healthcare Hero for Healthcare Innovation.
Amy E. Valasek, MD, MSc
Sports Medicine
Amy Elizabeth Valasek, MD, MSc is a physician for Nationwide Children’s Hospital Sports Medicine and an assistant professor in the department of pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. She is fellowship trained and board certified in sports medicine. Dr. Valasek attended medical school at The University of Maryland. She completed her residency at Johns Hopkins Hospital in the Department of Pediatrics and sports fellowship at University of Maryland Family Medicine Department in Baltimore, MD. She is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, American College of Sports Medicine, and American Medical Society for Sports Medicine. She is active in the community and serves as team physician at Bishop Ready High School in Columbus, Ohio.
Amy Fanning, PT, DPT
Outpatient Therapy
Amy Fanning, PT, DPT, PCS is a physical therapist at Nationwide Children's Hospital working at main campus in outpatient therapy She received her undergraduate degree from Miami University and her doctorate in physical therapy from Washington University in St. Louis. She began working at Nationwide Children's in February, 2013. She is a Columbus native (Go Bucks!), and she enjoys going to sporting events and loves being active and outdoors in her spare time.
Amy Leber, PhD
Clinical Pathology
As the Director of Clinical Microbiology and Immunoserology, Dr. Amy Leber provides in technical oversight in all areas of clinical microbiology and immunochemistry; including bacteriology, mycology, mycobacteriology, parasitology, virology, serology, and molecular infectious disease testing. She also oversees autoimmune, allergy testing, and select immunology assays. She provides consultation for physicians/clients in all areas of Infectious Disease laboratory testing. Dr. Leber has multiple teaching responsibilities for various medical personnel including direction of Infectious Disease Fellowship rotation in the laboratory. She is responsible for the management of quality and technical processes of the laboratories, and to direct research and development for new methodologies. Dr. Amy Leber is a Clinical Associate Professor of Pediatrics and Pathology at The Ohio State University College of Medicine and Public Health. She is a Diplomat of the American Board of Medical Microbiology and certified by the American Society of Clinical Pathologists as a Specialist in Microbiology and Molecular Diagnostics.In addition to her many published manuscripts, she sits on multiple Editorial Boards with various roles, including Editor in Chief of Clinical Microbiology Procedures Handbook. Dr. Leber’s clinical research interests include development of molecular infectious disease testing and sexual transmitted disease detection in adolescents and children.
Amy Randall-McSorley, MMC, EdD Candidate
Marketing and Public Relations
Amy Randall-McSorley is a Marketing Senior Specialist, Physician Referral, at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. As a freelance writer, one of her assignments since 2010 has been the weekly commuter column for the Circleville Herald. She has also written for other publications, authored three published books, and teaches writing workshops. Amy earned a bachelor of arts degree in organizational communications with a minor in psychology from Capital University and a masters of sciences degree in marketing and communications from Franklin University. She is currently working on her dissertation for a doctoral degree in adult education from Walden University.
Amy Brown Schlegel, MD
Neonatology
Amy Schlegel, MD, received her medical degree from the University of Minnesota. She completed her pediatric residency and neonatal-perinatal fellowship at the University of Pittsburgh, where she also completed a Master of Science degree in Medical Education. Dr. Schlegel practices neonatology in the Newborn Intensive Care Units at Nationwide Children's Hospital and the Nationwide Children's Hospital NICU at The Ohio State University Medical Center.
Amy Thomas, BSN, RN, IBCLC
NICU Lactation Educator
Amy Thomas, BSN, RN, IBCLC is the NICU Lactation Educator for the Nationwide Children's Hospital Neonatal Network.
Amy Wahl, APN
Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction (CCPR)
Anastasia Fischer, MD, FACSM
Sports Medicine
Anastasia Fischer, MD, FACSM, is a member of the Division of Sports Medicine at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and is a clinical assistant professor of pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Dr. Fischer attended medical school at The Ohio State University College of Medicine before completing a family practice residency at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and a primary care sports medicine fellowship at Maine Medical Center in Portland, Maine. She is fellowship trained and board certified in sports medicine, and is a member of the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine and the American College of Sports Medicine, where she has been appointed fellow. She is active in the Ohio Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Midwest Chapter of the American College of Sports Medicine, where she sits on the board of directors, and the Female Athlete Triad Coalition. She has a special interest in research and advocacy regarding the adolescent female athlete. Dr. Fischer is a volunteer physician with the Greater Ohio Bicycle Adventure and the Tour de Grandview and also serves as team physician at Groveport Madison High School in the central Ohio area.
Andrea M. Boerger, MEd, CCC-SLP
Speech and Language Pathology
Andrea Boerger, MEd, CCC-SLP is a speech-language pathologist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital working at Main Campus in the Outpatient Speech Therapy Department. She received her undergraduate degree from Bowling Green State University and her master’s degree in speech-language pathology from North Carolina Central University in Durham, North Carolina. She started working at Nationwide Children's Hospital in April 2013. She was quoted by the Columbus Dispatch on July 27, 2014 story on childhood stuttering.
Andrea Brun, CPNP-PC
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Andrea Orban, CPNP-PC is a pediatric nurse practitioner in the department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. She holds a BSN from The Ohio State University and a MSN from the University of Cincinnati, and has previous experience in primary care and neurosurgery. Ms. Orban sees patients in the Cleft Lip and Plate Center and Center for craniofacial disorders, the Hemangioma and Vascular Malformations Clinic, General Plastic Surgery, as well as the Hand, Microsurgery, and Brachial Plexus Program.
Andrew Axelson
Rice University
Drew is a sophomore at Rice University in Houston, Texas currently studying Political Science and Sport Management. As an avid social media user, he has experienced firsthand what it’s like growing up and being a teenager in a world dominated by Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. In addition to this, Drew also has a passion for writing. He was Co-editor in Chief of the newspaper at his alma mater Bexley High School, and is on the staff of the Center for Written, Oral, and Visual Communication at Rice.
Andrew Kroger, MD, MPH
Centers for Disease Control
Andrew Kroger, MD, MPH, is a medical officer for the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As one of the traveling trainers in the Education, Information and Partnership Branch, Dr. Kroger has given multiple presentations on topics ranging from immunization updates to pandemic influenza preparedness. Most notably, Dr. Kroger is the author of the newest edition of the CDC’s General Recommendations on Immunization; and he is also involved with some of the new distance learning activities of the branch, including the Current Issues in Immunization Series that is delivered through NetConferencing. Dr. Kroger trained in pediatrics for two years at Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital in Cleveland before transferring to Emory University where he specialized in public health and preventive medicine. He received joint Doctor of Medicine and Master of Public Health degrees from Yale Medical School and Yale University School of Epidemiology and Public Health with a concentration in international health.
Angela Abenaim
Ohio Better Birth Outcomes
Angela Abenaim is the teen pregnancy prevention program coordinator working in infant wellness initiatives in the Community Wellness department. She received her undergraduate degree in sociology from The Ohio State University and a Master’s of Communication and Marketing from Franklin University. She works to promote good health behaviors to create best future outcomes for adolescents in the community. She is a wife and mom to two small kids and loves watching musical theater and the Buckeyes.
Angela Billingslea, LISW-S
Family AIDS Clinic and Educational Services Program (FACES)
Angela Billingslea, LISW-S is a medical social worker in the Family AIDS Clinic and Education Services (FACES) Program at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. In this setting she is active with educating patients and their families about living healthy and quality lives with HIV/AIDS. In addition, Angela is involved with the programs Outreach Team providing HIV counseling and testing services in the clinic as well as in the community. Her dream is to see HIV/AIDS eradicated in her lifetime.
Anna Lillis, MD, PhD
Radiology
Anna Lillis, MD, PhD, is a pediatric interventional radiologist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She earned her medical degree and PhD in Pathology from Duke University in 2008. She completed Radiology Residency training at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Pediatric Radiology Fellowship and advanced Pediatric Interventional Radiology training at Boston Children’s Hospital. Dr. Lillis is board certified in Diagnostic Radiology and Pediatric Radiology. She previously served as an Interventional Radiologist at Boston Children’s Hospital and member of the multidisciplinary Vascular Anomalies Center where she focused on the study and treatment of patients with a range of vascular anomalies including venous and lymphatic malformations, overgrowth syndromes such as Klippel-Trenaunay and CLOVES Syndrome, and congenital and acquired disorders of the lymphatic system. Both at Boston Children’s Hospital and Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Dr. Lillis has worked to develop minimally-invasive imaging and interventional approaches to patients suffering from these conditions. She led the development of the Magnetic Resonance Lymphangiography project at Boston Children’s Hospital performing pre-clinical animal studies before safely introducing this technique to patients in 2015. Since that time, she helped create a robust clinical service providing a wide range of lymphatic imaging and interventional techniques and collaborating with surgical and medical colleagues in the treatment of patients with lymphatic disorders including or traumatic lymph or chyle leak, chylothorax, chylous ascites, chylopericardium, chyluria, protein losing enteropathy and plastic bronchitis. Since coming to Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Dr. Lillis has been an active member of the Hemangioma and Vascular Malformations Center, partnering with her colleagues in cardiology and hematology to bring lymphatic imaging and interventions to Nationwide Children's. She has also undergone additional subspecialty Interventional Radiology training at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, a global referral center for the minimally-invasive treatment of patients with Aneurysmal Bone Cysts (ABCs), orbital malformations, dermoid cysts and salivary disorders such as sialorrhea.
Annie Drapeau, MD
Neurosurgery
Annie I. Drapeau, MD, is a pediatric neurosurgeon in the Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and an assistant professor at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Dr. Drapeau completed her fellowship at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in pediatric neurosurgery before joining as a faculty member in 2018. She completed her residency in neurosurgery at the University of Manitoba and the University of Sherbrooke with one year as chief resident. Dr. Drapeau received her Doctor of Medicine and Masters of Science in pharmacology from the University of Sherbrooke. She also received a diploma in specialized studies for clinician investigator.
Anthony Audino, MD
Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Program
Dr. Anthony Audino is a pediatric oncologist and a member of the Adolescent and Young Adult Program at Nationwide Children’s. His clinical and research interests include adolescent and young adult oncology, specifically solid tumors such as sarcoma and lymphoma. He has also piloted a year-long program, with grant support, for an adolescent and young adult outreach education program. Dr. Audino received his medical degree from the University of Toledo Medical Center. He completed his residency at Akron Children’s Hospital and received his fellowship training from Nationwide Children’s.
Anthony Bartko, Athletic Trainer
He received his undergrad degree at Heidelberg University in 2016. He has spent time working as the Athletic Trainer for the Otterbein University while obtaining his Master’s in Healthcare Administration. During his time at Otterbein he was an Athletic Trainer for their Football, Cheer, Wrestling, and Women’s Lacrosse teams from 2016-2018. He then spent 3 years working at Ashland University working primarily with their Volleyball, and Track & Field teams. He also went on trips with the baseball and softball teams, and worked football during their 2020 COVID season. During his time at Ashland, Anthony helped keep the Men’s Track team healthy enough to win 3 consecutive National Championships (Indoor/Outdoor 2019, 2020 COVID cancellation, Indoor 2021). He has had the opportunity to work with athletes invited to the Olympic trails and world championships and he cherishes his time spent in Ashland as it helped mold him into the clinician he is today. He now resides in Columbus with his wife and is one of the Athletic Trainers at Canal Winchester High School.
Anup D. Patel, MD
Neurology
Anup Patel, MD, works as an attending physician in the Epilepsy Center at Nationwide Children's Hospital. He has a focus on medical management of complicated epilepsy. He is the father of a five year old boy and six month old daughter. In his free time, he loves listening to music and watching sports. Follow Dr. Patel on Twitter @PedsEpilepsyDoc where he shares helpful epilepsy information and helps spread awareness!
Arielle Sheftall, PhD
Center for Suicide Prevention and Research
Arielle Sheftall, PhD, is a principal investigator in the Center for Suicide Prevention and Research at the Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. Her research program investigates early vulnerability factors associated with suicidal behavior in young children with the goal of implementing early intervention programs to prevent future suicidal behavior in at-risk youth. She received her undergraduate degree from Penn State University and doctorate at The Ohio State University. She is a Massachusetts native and loves all things sports.
Ashleigh Kussman, MD
Hitchcock-Wilson Fellowship
Ashleigh Kussman, MD, is a pediatric hematology, oncology and BMT fellow at Nationwide Children's Hospital. She graduated from University of Toledo College of Medicine and completed her residency at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital.
Ashley M. Davidson, AT, ATC, MS
Sports Medicine
Ashley Davidson, MS, AT, ATC, joined Nationwide Children's Hospital Sports Medicine as a certified and licensed athletic trainer in 2016. Prior to joining Nationwide Children's Hospital, Ashley served as an athletic trainer at Walk the Line to SCI Recovery in Southfield, MI, where she designed recovery and rehabilitative programs for individuals suffering from spinal cord and traumatic brain injuries. She was also a Mentor Trainer, sharing responsibility for training new employees specific handling skills required for sessions, as well as documentation skills for billing purposes. Before joining Walk the Line to SCI Recovery, Ashley worked as a graduate assistant at Eastern Michigan University where she worked closely with the Volleyball and Women's Crew teams, and assisted with Football treatments and rehabilitation. She was also an approved clinical instructor for the undergraduate athletic training students at EMU. Prior to Eastern Michigan University, Ashley worked as an intern at the United States Naval Academy where she worked closely with the Football and Men's and Women's Lacrosse teams. Ashley earned a bachelor's degree in athletic training from Ashland University in 2007 and a master's degree in sports management and administration from Eastern Michigan University in 2010.
Ashley Eckstein
Actress and Author
Ashley Eckstein is an actress, author and entrepreneur. Most known as the voice of Ahsoka Tano in Star Wars The Clone Wars and Star Wars Rebels, Ashley is also the Founder of Her Universe - the groundbreaking fangirl fashion company and lifestyle brand. Ashley has been widely recognized and honored as a business woman and Fangirl trendsetter by TIME Magazine, The New York Times, FORTUNE and various other media and news outlets. She has also hosted and starred in several TV specials, live shows, events and videos.
Ashley Minnick, MSAH, AT, ATC
Sports Medicine
Ashley E. Minnick, MSAH, AT, ATC, received her bachelor's of science in education (major: athletic training) from Wright State University. She is licensed by the state of Ohio and certified by the Board of Certification as an athletic trainer. She is an active member of the Ohio Athletic Trainers Association, Great Lakes Athletic Trainers Association, and National Athletic Trainers Association. Before joining the Nationwide Children's Hospital Sports Medicine Program, Ashley worked as an athletic trainer at Denison University covering football, women's basketball, women's lacrosse, and men's and women's tennis. Prior to her time with the Big Red, she was an athletic trainer at Ashland University and worked with varsity and junior varsity football, men's and women's swimming and diving, and men's and women's indoor/outdoor track and field. Ashley has also had the opportunity to volunteer with the touring company of Radio City Christmas Spectacular featuring The Rockettes. Currently, Ashley is an athletic trainer at New Albany High School. She is interested in athletic training education and has been a guest speaker at colleges and universities in Ohio. Ashley is involved in our Pediatric Sports Medicine Athletic Training Internship Program.
Ashley Overall, FNP
Infectious Diseases
Ashley Overall, FNP is a certified nurse practitioner in Infectious Diseases at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and works with Dr. Pablo Sanchez in the Neonatal Infectious Disease Clinic. She has various experience in adult and pediatric nursing, public health and health education.
Ashley Parikh, CPNP-PC
Primary Care Pediatrics
Ashley Parikh, CPNP-PC is a nurse practitioner in the School-Based Health Program at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She began her career in school health as an NP in NYC after graduating from New York University. She has practiced in an elementary school in the Bronx and a high school in Queens. She is excited to continue her career in school health in Ohio as providing primary care services in the school-based setting is her passion.
Ashley Parker MSW, LISW-S
Transplant Social Worker
Ashley is the clinical social worker for the section of Nephrology at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She earned her bachelor and master’s degrees from The Ohio State University. Ashley is a member of the Society of Transplant Social Workers.
Ashley Tuisku, CTRS
Therapeutic Recreation
Ashley Tuisku, CRRS, obtained her bachelor’s degree from Ohio University. She started with Nationwide Children’s Hospital in 2011 as a contingent therapeutic recreation specialist covering variety of units and diagnosis. In 2013, she started a new full time position on the Youth Crisis Stabilization Unit along with covering chronic gastrointestinal diagnosis and post-operative acute care at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Ashley also has work experience at Ohio State University Harding Hospital in behavioral health and four years in skilled nursing setting.
Asuncion Mejias, MD, PhD
Center for Vaccines and Immunity
Asuncion Mejias, MD, PhD, is a pediatric infectious diseases specialist in the Center for Vaccines and Immunity in The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She is also assistant professor of pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. She has been studying the pathogenesis of respiratory viral infections, including RSV, for the past 13 years.
Aurelia Wood, MD
Endocrinology
Aurelia Wood, MD, FAAP is a physician in the Section of Endocrinology at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and an assistant professor of clinical pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Dr. Wood attended medical school at the Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine in Dayton, OH. She completed pediatric residency at the University of Louisville School of Medicine in Louisville, KY where she was also selected to serve as chief resident. A Westerville native, Dr. Wood returned to Columbus and joined the faculty at Nationwide Children’s Hospital after completing her fellowship in pediatric endocrinology and diabetes at Washington University in St. Louis in 2018. She has special interests in quality improvement, improving medical literacy, and educating and supporting adolescents with type 1 diabetes toward independence and optimal self-care management.
Bailey Young, DO
Pediatric Pulmonary Fellowship
Bailey Young, DO, is a pediatric pulmonary fellow at Nationwide Children's Hospital. Dr. Young attended medical school at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine - Virginia and completed her pediatric residency at Geisinger Medical Center.
Becky Corbitt, RN
Fetal Medicine Clinic
Becky Corbitt, RN, MSN, CNL is the program coordinator of the Fetal Medicine Clinic at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Becky works collaboratively with the physicians who lead and conduct the program. She works directly with parents and the referring physicians to coordinate the care of the baby. She is a 1997 graduate of the University of Cincinnati, College of Nursing with a Bachelor of Science degree. Becky received her MSN at Otterbein College in 2010. Her passion for prenatal and neonatal nursing compliments her experience. Becky is dedicated to helping families whose babies have been diagnosed prenatally with a birth defect prepare for the baby’s delivery and subsequent treatment.
Benjamin Fields, PhD, MEd
Behavioral Health
Ben Fields, PhD, MEd, is a clinical psychologist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. His primary clinical interests include assessment and treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and learning disorders, as well as parent behavior management training for disruptive behavior disorders. Dr. Fields is active in delivery of Incredible Years parent groups and ADHD Academy seminars. A former teacher, he has also collaborated with local school districts to increase understanding and effective support of students with ADHD.
Benjamin Kopp, MD
Pulmonary Medicine
Benjamin Kopp, MD is an assistant professor in the Section of Pediatric Pulmonology and a principal investigator in the Center for Microbial Pathogenesis at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. He is avid cystic fibrosis researcher focused on novel therapies for infection. He has also started the pulmonary/sickle cell clinic to provide an integrated medical home for patients with sickle cell lung disease. He is a proud father of 2 children who keep him and his wonderful wife on their toes! Dr. Kopp is a buckeye for life, and loves to talk sports superstitions. Follow Dr. Ben on Twitter @KidsLungDoc for the latest pulmonary research updates and tips on how to manage chronic lung disease.
Bernadette Burke, AT, ATC, MS
Sports Medicine
Bernadette Burke, MS, AT, ATC, is a board-certified and Ohio licensed athletic trainer with Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Her outreach responsibility is with Watkins Memorial High School. She comes to Nationwide Children’s from NovaCare Rehabilitation, where she provided outreach services to Roosevelt University’s varsity sports. Previously as a NovaCare employee, she worked as an intern assistant athletic trainer at Loyola University Chicago with women’s volleyball and men’s and women’s track and field. In 2015, she received her Master of Science degree in Exercise Science from George Washington University while serving as the graduate assistant athletic trainer for George Washington University’s men’s soccer team. She received her bachelor of science in athletic training from Xavier University in 2013.
Beth Martin, RN
Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Beth Martin RNC, MSN, graduated from Otterbein College with a bachelor's of science in nursing and completed her master's of science in nursing in 2010. She has worked at Nationwide Children’s in the NICU since 1996. In 2004, a multidisciplinary group developed the small baby guidelines. The guidelines outline the care of < 27 week preemies from the time of admission to discharge. She has presented the small baby data and outcomes all over the United States. Their outcomes have improved; decreased length of stay, mortality and morbidity rates, and ventilator days. She is also a mom of two beautiful boys, ages 6 1/2 and 3, who keep her very busy! She love spending time with family, camping, swimming and watching kids movies!
Beth Villanueva, OTD, OTR/L
Physical Therapy - Sports and Orthopedic
Beth Villanueva, OTD, OTR/L received her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from the Ohio State University if 2009. She then graduated from The University of Toledo in 2012 with an Occupational Therapy Doctorate. She has been an outpatient occupational therapist at Nationwide Children's Hospital since then. She works with children with a variety of diagnoses and abilities to improve fine motor skills and overall independence. She has experience in both outpatient and inpatient settings. She has special interests in hand therapy, splinting, and burn rehabilitation. Beth enjoys serving on interdisciplinary care teams in Burn Clinic and Brachial Plexus Clinic.
Bhuvana Setty, MD
Hematology, Oncology and BMT
Dr. Setty's clinical interests include caring for pediatric and young adult patients with bone and soft tissue sarcoma, and patients with vascular anomalies. She attended Shri B.M Patil Medical College, Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences in Bijapur, India. Her residency training was at University of Illinois at Chicago and her fellowship at Nationwide Children's Hospital. Dr. Setty is the Nationwide Children's site principal investigator for The Sunshine Project clinical trial consortium. Her research interests include translational research to better understand the biology of these aggressive diseases. Her interests also include developing early phase clinical trials with new therapeutic agents for aggressive bone and soft tissue sarcomas.
Bill Kulju, MS, AT
Sports Medicine
Bill Kulju, MS, AT received both his bachelor's and master’s degree from The Ohio State University. He has an extensive background with high school athletics, serving for 33 years as the head athletic trainer at Westerville South High School. Bill also has 5 years of experience serving with the United States Olympic Committee. In 1990 he spent time at the Olympic training center in Colorado Springs covering Men’s soccer and Ice Hockey. He then traveled with the Men’s Field Hockey to Los Angeles for the Olympic Festival. In 1993 he served as the athletic trainer for the USA Track and Field teams at the World University Games. In 1995 Bill was assigned to the Men’s field Hockey team and traveled to Argentina for the Pan Am Games. Bill has also been very involved in the workings of the Ohio Athletic Trainers' Association serving on the executive committee from 1998 to 2007 in various elected position. Bill is married to Anne and has 2 grown daughters, Ashley is a physical therapist and Abbie is a nurse. He enjoys bike riding and Muskie fishing in his spare time.
Blake Skinner
Cap4Kids
Blake Skinner is an intern with CAP4Kids where he focuses on social media strategy and sharing community resources. He is also a student at Capital University entering his last semester where he studies marketing.
Brad Childers, RRT, BS
Transport
Brad Childers, RRT, BS, is a respiratory therapist with the Nationwide Children’s Transport team. “I have the greatest job. Knowing I’m making a difference in a child’s life is incredibly rewarding.”
Brandi Cogdill, RN, BSN, CFRN, EMT-P
Emergency Services
Brandi Cogdill, RN, BSN, CFRN, EMT-P has a bachelor's of science in nursing from Ohio University. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree in health administration. She has been a nurse in the emergency department and offsite urgent cares at Nationwide Children’s Hospital for 15 years. She is currently the clinical leader at Dublin Urgent Care and will be proudly transitioning to the new Marysville Urgent Care. She is also a certified flight nurse and a paramedic. Aside from her love for pediatric nursing, she is the mother of two wonderful children. She believes that Mindi, 11 and Matt, 9 have made her a better nurse. She is grateful to her husband Mike for encouraging her to be her best and pushing her to fulfill her dreams.
Breanne L. Bowers, PT, DPT, CHT, CFST
Sports and Orthopedic Physical Therapy
Breanne Bowers, PT, DPT, CHT, CFST, has been a physical therapist since 2012 and became a board-certified hand and upper extremity therapist (CHT) in May of 2017. Her background is in general orthopedic and sports physical therapy with adults and adolescents with elective studies, mission trips and clinical experiences in pediatrics.
She is licensed by Ohio Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Athletic Trainers Board and certified by the Hand Therapy Certification Committee. She is a member of the American Society of Hand Therapists, and Certified Fascial Stretch Therapist and a TouchBionics-certified prosthetics provider. She enjoys working out, running, riding horses, going to the park with her dogs and spending time with friends and family
Brendan Boyle, MD, MPH
Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition
Brendan M. Boyle, MD, is the quality improvement director in the Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition at Nationwide Children's Hospital and an assistant professor of pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. His clinical activities span all of general pediatric gastroenterology, with a research focus on patients with inflammatory bowel disease and celiac disease. His research interests also include the development of reliable and consistent care delivery systems to improve the quality of patient care.
Brian Boe, MD
Cardiology
Brian Boe, MD, is a congenital interventional cardiologist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and an assistant professor of pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. After completing pediatric residency at Children’s Memorial Hospital (Chicago, IL), Dr. Boe obtained his congenital cardiology training at the University of Michigan C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. He then completed his interventional cardiology fellowship at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Dr. Boe is board-certified in pediatrics, pediatric cardiology and adult congenital heart disease. His clinical focus includes cardiac catheterization and transcatheter-based therapies for patients with congenital heart disease such as ASD closure, PDA occlusion, transcatheter valve implantation and other interventions in complex congenital heart disease. Dr. Boe has clinical interests in single ventricle physiology, pulmonary vein stenosis and lymphatic disorders.
Brian K. Kaspar, PhD
Center for Gene Therapy
Brian K. Kaspar, PhD is a former principal investigator in the Center for Gene Therapy at The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and associate professor in the department of pediatrics and department of neuroscience at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. In 2013, Dr. Kaspar was named Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).
Brian Kellogg, MD
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Brian Kellogg, MD, is a pediatric plastic surgeon who specializes in cleft lip and palate and craniofacial surgery. Dr. Kellogg completed his plastic surgery residency training at the University of South Florida, and his pediatric plastic and craniofacial surgery fellowship at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. He is an active participant in the Cleft Lip and Palate-Craniofacial Center and in the Hemangioma and Vascular Anomalies Clinic. Dr. Kellogg’s research interests include speech outcomes after cleft palate repair, surgical management of velopharyngeal dysfunction in children with 22q deletion syndrome, and airway management in patients with Pierre Robin sequence.
Briana Crowe, PT, DPT, OCS
Sports and Orthopedic Physical Therapy
Briana Crowe, PT, DPT, OCS, completed her doctorate of physical therapy at Arcadia University in Glenside, PA. After graduating, she came to Columbus to complete Nationwide Children's Sports Physical Therapy Orthopedic residency program. She is a board-certified orthopedic clinical specialist.
Briana is a life-long runner and also competes in many other organized sports leagues throughout the year. Her clinical interests lie with runners and ball sport athletes. She enjoys the challenge of progressing athletes back to their sport or activity by incorporating specifics of their sport into rehabilitation.
Brigid Pargeon, MS, MT-BC
Hospice and Home-Based Palliative Care
Brigid Pargeon, MS, MT-BC, graduated from Ohio University in 2001, with a degree in Interpersonal Communication. She became a licensed massage therapist in 2006, and joined Nationwide Children’s Hospital in 2011. Brigid has worked on many inpatient units, and is currently serving the CTICU. She also became the massage therapist on the Hospice and Home-Based Palliative team in January, 2017, and loves both positions. Brigid is a certified pediatric massage therapist, certified infant massage instructor, neuromuscular therapist, and always seeking new classes and opportunities to better her skills. Brigid enjoys spending time with her husband, Brandon, and their one-year-old, Finnegan.
Brittany Mikuluk, M.Ed., CCLS
Child Life Educator
Brittany Mikuluk, M.Ed., CCLS completed her Bachelor of Sciences in Human and Consumer Sciences with a specialization of Child Life at Ohio University and completed her Master in Education with a graduate certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders at Bowling Green State University. Brittany’s passion working with students lead her to become an Adjunct Instructor at Bowling Green State University on top of her fulltime career at Nationwide Children’s Hospital as Child Life Educator.
Brittney Hardin, MOT, OTR/L
Physical Therapy - Sports and Orthopedic
Brittney Hardin, MOT, OTR/L, received her degree in occupational therapy from The Ohio State University in 2013. Previous to this, she received her bachelor’s degree in athletic training from Capital University in 2010. Brittney’s focus area here at Nationwide Children’s Hospital is outpatient hand therapy, treating and making custom splints for patients with a variety of conditions ranging from burns and congenital differences to sports related upper extremity injuries. She loves seeing her patients master functional skills independently despite conditions or differences they have, and she also loves seeing her student athletes return to their favorite sport after injury.
Brooke Sims, LPCC, ATR
Crisis Services
Brooke Sims, LPCC, ATR, received her undergraduate degree in art therapy and psychology from Capital University. She later went on to receive her master’s degree from Ursuline College in art therapy and clinical counseling. She earned her credentials as a licensed professional counselor from the Ohio CSWMFT board and certificate as a registered art therapist. Brooke has been employed with Nationwide Children’s Hospital for close to two years with experience working on T5A inpatient psychiatric unit and is currently a crisis clinician on C5A the youth crisis stabilization unit. Brooke is also a registered yoga instructor for children and adults and enjoys incorporating various holistic interventions in her current clinical practice. She adores volunteerism and travels abroad multiple times a year to build connections, provide art therapy and yoga services to children and families in underprivileged countries around the world.
Cagri Toruner, MD
Rheumatology
Cagri Yidirim Toruner, MD, is an attending physician at Nationwide Children’s Hospital Division of Rheumatology and an assistant professor in pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Dr. Toruner attended medical school at Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey. She completed her residency at New Jersey Medical School and Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey. She completed her fellowship training in Columbia University, New York. She is board certified in both general pediatrics and rheumatology. She is a member of and actively involved in the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), American College of Rheumatology (ACR), Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA) and Pediatric Rheumatology Care and Outcomes Improvement Network (PR-COIN). She has a special interest in childhood onset lupus and auto-inflammatory diseases as well as quality improvement and patient/family engagement efforts in children with rheumatic diseases.
Caleb Mosley
Sports Medicine
Caleb is a sports performance specialist for Nationwide Children’s Hospital Sports Performance at Watkins Memorial High School. Caleb graduated from Capital University with a bachelor's in exercise science after attending Columbus State Community College, where he received an associate's of applied science in athletic performance. Prior to his time with Nationwide Children's Sports Medicine department, Caleb worked as an assistant strength coach at Olentangy Liberty High School and a strength intern at Upper Arlington High School.
Callista Dammann
Marketing and Public Relations
Callista Dammann is the social community manager at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She has the unique opportunity of navigating the hospital as both a staff member and a parent after delivering her twin girls, Cami and Madi, at just 25 weeks gestation. Her daughter Madi is a guardian angel for sister Cami, and baby brothers Maddox and Cayson. They live in Dublin, Ohio with her husband, Ryan and their puppy, Lexie.
Cami Winkelspecht, PhD
Behavioral Health
Cami Winkelspecht, PhD is a psychologist and clinical educator for Behavioral Health at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. In addition to her role as a clinical educator, she coordinates the Incredible Years parent programming initiatives within behavioral health, is the associate track director of the child clinical internship training track for their APA approved psychology internship program, and serves as a cognitive-behavioral therapy consultant for the agency. She received her BS in psychology and child development from Vanderbilt University and her MS and PhD from Auburn University.
Canice Crerand, PhD
Center for Biobehavioral Health
Canice E. Crerand, PhD, is a principal investigator in the Center for Biobehavioral Health at Nationwide Children's Hospital and and an assistant professor of pediatrics at The Ohio State University. As a clinical psychologist, she works with team members and patients in the Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, providing psychological assessment and treatment of patients with cleft lip and palate, craniofacial conditions and other congenital and acquired body conditions that result in appearance differences. Prior to joining Nationwide Children's, Dr. Crerand served as a psychologist in Division of Plastic Surgery at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and as an assistant professor of psychology in the Department of Surgery at the University of Pennsylvania's Perelman School of Medicine in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Dr. Crerand received her bachelor's degree in psychology from The Ohio State University, her master's degree in clinical psychology from MCP-Hahnemann University, and her doctorate in clinical psychology from Drexel University. She also completed an American Psychological Association (APA) Accredited Pre-doctoral Internship at the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System. She is a member of the APA, APA Division 54 – Society of Pediatric Psychology, the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies, the American Cleft Palate/Craniofacial Association and a founding member of the APA Division 54 Craniofacial Special Interest Group.
Carl H. Backes, MD
Center for Perinatal Research
Carl H. Backes, Jr, MD, is a member of the Center for Perinatal Research at The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital. He is an assistant professor of pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine, and attending neonatologist and attending cardiologist at Nationwide Children's Hospital. His clinical interests include the care of premature infants born with congenital heart disease. His research interests involve improving outcomes among premature infants with cardiovascular or hemodynamic perturbations. Dr. Backes has been a journal reviewer for Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology as well as Congenital Heart Disease since 2012. He is also a member of Alpha Omega Alpha (AOA) Medical Honors Society and the American Heart Association (AHA).
Carlo Di Lorenzo, MD
Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition
Carlo Di Lorenzo, MD, is chief of the Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition at Nationwide Children's Hospital where he holds the Robert F. and Edgar T. Wolfe Foundation Endowed Chair in Pediatric Gastroenterology and professor of clinical pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Dr. Di Lorenzo has been among the first clinical investigators to assess the diagnostic value of antroduodenal and colonic manometry and to use the electronic barostat to assess visceral sensitivity in children. He co-authored the only three books on pediatric gastrointestinal motility, and has published more than 220 peer-reviewed original articles and 80 chapters, invited reviews and editorials. He has been awarded the Master Award in Gastroenterology for Basic or Clinical research in Gastroenterology by the AGAI, the Golden Stethoscope Award by Nationwide Children’s Hospital and the Award for Senior Investigator in Pediatrics by the IFFGD. He is currently the Past-President of the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition.
Carneshia Edwards
School Health Liaison - Kindergarten Readiness
Carol Baumhardt, LMT
Massage Therapy
Carol M. Baumhardt, LMT has been a massage therapist since 2007. She holds licenses in both Ohio and Wisconsin and she specializes in chronic pain from repetitive use injuries. Carol seeks out continuous education opportunities to support her work and to help achieve the best outcomes for the clients in her care. She likes to take time to educate her clients on the regions being treated, which makes her treatments an interactive event. Before joining Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Carol was an instructor in the massage arena in addition to sustaining her own private practice.
Carrie Rhodes, CPST-I, MTSA, CHES
Passenger Safety Program
Carrie Rhodes, CPST-I, MTSA, CHES, coordinates the Passenger Safety Program at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She is passionate about using her experiences in health education, injury prevention and road safety to partner with families in safely transporting their children.
Casey Cottrill, MD, MPH
Adolescent Medicine
Casey Cottrill, MD, MPH, is a member of the Section of Adolescent Medicine at Nationwide Children's Hospital and an assistant professor of Clinical Pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. She graduated from Clemson University with a degree in psychology. She received her medical degree from West Virginia University and completed her pediatric residency and chief residency through Eastern Virginia Medical School at Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters in Norfolk, Virginia. Dr. Cottrill earned her Masters in Public Health from The Ohio State University and completed her fellowship in Adolescent Medicine at Nationwide Children's Hospital before becoming part of the section's faculty. Her clinical interests include the treatment of patients with eating disorders and substance abuse.
Casey Trimble
Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction (CCPR)
Cassandra McNabb, RN-BSN
Pediatric Surgery Clinic
Cassandra McNabb graduated with her BSN from Mount Carmel College of Nursing. She has been employed by Nationwide Children’s Hospital since 2009. She has been a staff RN in the Pediatric Surgery Clinic for 2 years, working in both surgery and burn clinics. She also has experience in emergency nursing, trauma, pulmonary and critical care. She is a proud aunt to James and Harper.
Catherine Earlenbaugh, RN
Westerville Urgent Care Center
Catherine Jordan, MD
Ophthalmology
Catherine Olson Jordan, MD is part of the Ophthalmology/ Eye Clinic physician team at Nationwide Children's Hospital.
Catherine Sinclair, MD
Primary Care Pediatrics
Catherine Sinclair, MD, is a clinical assistant professor of pediatrics in the department of Hospital Pediatrics, meaning she cares for children who must spend one or more nights in the hospital for a variety of reasons. She is involved in teaching medical students at the Ohio State University College of Medicine, both in general pediatrics and in the ethics and principles of doctoring. She has a passion for Global health and has practiced medicine on three different continents. In her free time, she enjoys playing tennis, jogging, and traveling for non-medical purposes.
Catherine Trimble, FNP
Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction
Catherine (Casey) Trimble, APRN, FNP-C, relocated to Columbus, Ohio to join The Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction (CCPR) at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in 2017 as an advance practice nurse practitioner. Casey has been a nurse for over ten years with a strong background in pediatrics.
Catrina Litzenburg, PhD
Psychiatry and Behavioral Health
Catrina Litzenburg, PhD, is a licensed psychologist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and an assistant professor of clinical pediatrics at The Ohio State University. Dr. Litzenburg specializes in integrated behavioral health care and sleep. She obtained her PhD from the University of Kansas.
Charae Keys, MSW, LISW-S
Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction (CCPR)
Charae Keys, MSW, LISW-S is a clinical social worker for the Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction. Charae received her bachelor's of science in human and consumer sciences from Ohio University in 2009 where she majored in family studies. Charae received her master's of social work from The Ohio State University in 2011. Charae received her certificate in human leadership management services in 2016 from The Ohio State University. Charae contributes biopsychosocial perspective to the team at the Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction. Charae’s role includes case management, care coordination, facilitation of support groups and collaboration with other professionals on the team at the Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction to provide best outcomes to patients and their families.
Charles Elmaraghy, MD
Otolaryngology
Charles A. Elmaraghy, MD, is chief of the Department of Otolaryngology at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and an active faculty member in the Department of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery and a professor of Clinical Otolaryngology at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. He is board-certified and received his fellowship training at Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, D.C., in pediatric otolaryngology. His career highlights include being summa cum laude at The Ohio State University, achieving the highest USMLE Step 1 score in the nation in 1998, valedictorian at The Ohio State University College of Medicine in 2000 and achieving the highest score in the nation in 2004 on the annual otolaryngology in-service examination. His career interests include sinus surgery, airway problems, head and neck masses and general pediatric otolaryngology. His responsibilities include training residents, medical students and other health professionals. Currently, he is an integral part of the medical student otolaryngology curriculum at The Ohio State University College of Medicine for the ambulatory clerkship and is in charge of otolaryngology resident education at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. He has authored national publications and is academically active at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
Chelsea Britton, MS, RD, LD, CLC
Clinical Nutrition and Lactation
Chelsea Britton, MS, RD, LD, CLC is a registered and licensed dietitian. She graduated in 2013 from the Master of Science program in Medical Dietetics from the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences at The Ohio State University. She specializes in the areas of Neonatology and Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia and currently works as a clinical dietitian in the Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia Outpatient Clinic at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Chelsea also maintains her certification as a certified lactation counselor.
Chelsea Kebodeaux, MD
Obstetrics & Gynecology
Chelsea Kebodeaux, MD is a member of the Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology physician team as well as the Fertility and Reproductive Health Program physician team at Nationwide Children's Hospital.
Cheryl Boop, MS, OTR/L
Clinical Therapies
Cheryl Boop, MS, OTR/L, has worked as an occupational therapist in pediatric settings since 2000. She has treated children and families in a variety of settings, including outpatient, homecare, early intervention, and school system. Since May 2016, she has been working with children and families through Homecare at Nationwide Children's Hospital, treating children with neurodevelopmental, feeding, sensory and fine motor difficulties. She is the Clinical Lead for Nationwide Children's Homecare Clinical Therapy Services.
Cheryl G. Baxter, CPNP
Urology
Cheryl G. Baxter, CPNP, is a member of the Section of Pediatric Urology at Nationwide Children's Hospital. She completed her master’s degree in nursing and advance practice at The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. Her previous experience includes pediatric primary care, neonatal nurse practitioner, ICU staff and chief flight nurse. Cheryl joined the Urology division in 2007. She is a full-time pediatric nurse practitioner specializing in pediatric urology problems such as urinary tract infections, overactive bladder, and other disorders of the bladder and bowel. She has lectured at a local and national level on pediatric urology topics and is active in the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Cheryl Gariepy, MD
Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition
Cheryl E. Gariepy, MD, is an associate professor of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition at Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University College of Medicine. She is the associate director for research of the Pediatric Gastroenterology Fellowship at Nationwide Children's. Her areas of clinical interest include genetic gastrointestinal disease and disorders of the liver and pancreas. She received her undergraduate degree from The University of Michigan and her medical degree from Stanford University. She completed clinical training in general pediatrics and pediatric gastroenterology at The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center/Children's Medical Center of Dallas. She also completed a three-year fellowship in molecular genetics with the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. She is on the editorial board of the Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, a councilor for the Growth, Development & Child Health section of the American Gastroenterological Institute Council, an investigator in the International Study Group of Pediatric Pancreatitis: In Search of a Cure (INSPPIRE) and a member of the steering committee of the Hirschsprung Disease Research Collaborative. She has published numerous research articles, presented at international meetings and authored several book chapters. Dr. Gariepy is named among the Best Doctors in America.
Chris Marrero
Chis is a Emergency Preparedness Coordinator at Nationwide Children's Hospital
Chris Smith, RN
Lactation Team
Chris Smith has been a pediatric nurse for over 30 years, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant for 15 years and a founding member of Nationwide Children’s Hospital’s Lactation Team. As part of the team, she works with the mothers of hospitalized infants to provide life-saving human milk for their fragile infants. She also sees mothers and infants as outpatients who are having breastfeeding difficulties. Chris is the mother of two adult sons, both of who were exclusively breastfed. When not at work, Chris is an avid quilter.
Chris Westgarth-Taylor, MD
Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction
Christopher J. Westgarth-Taylor, MD, is Director of Colorectal Surgery for the Center of Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
Christina Ching, MD
Urology
Christina B. Ching, MD is a member of the Section of Pediatric Urology at Nationwide Children's Hospital. She received her medical degree from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and then completed a year of general surgery and five years of Urology training at Cleveland Clinic in Cleveland, OH. She has completed a two-year fellowship in Pediatric Urology at Monroe Carell Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN. Dr. Ching is interested in all aspects of urologic problems in children including urinary tract infections, hydronephrosis, urinary incontinence, hypospadias, kidney stones, ureteral reflux, spina bifida and other complex pelvic and urinary conditions. She is trained in minimally invasive techniques of surgery as well as open. She has a strong interest in translational research looking at how the bladder urothelium responds to injury and how this could be used to help better heal or even prevent bladder injury in the future.
Christina Day
Christina And Ryan Day Fund For Pediatric And Adolescent Mental Wellness
Christine Johnson, MA, CCC-SLP
Speech and Language Pathologist
Christine Koterba, PhD
Psychiatry and Behavioral Health
Christine Mansfield, PT, DPT, OCS, ATC
Sports and Orthopedic Physical Therapy
Christine Mansfield, PT, DPT, OCS, ATC, completed her doctorate of physical therapy at Duke University. After graduating she completed an orthopedic residency at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. She is a board-certified orthopedic clinical specialist and certified athletic trainer.
Christine Prusa
Outpatient Pharmacy
Christine Prusa is the current Community Care Pharmacy Resident at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She spends time developing patient care programs out of the two outpatient pharmacies on Children’s Main Campus. She also participates on health care teams in Primary Care Yellow, Neurology Main Campus and South High Primary Care Ambulatory Clinics. In January Christine will be facilitating a workshop at The Ohio State University College of Pharmacy for the first year student pharmacists’ drug information course. She enjoys cheering on the buckeyes, walking her dogs, and spending time with her husband, Brian.
Christopher Goettee, PT, DPT, OCS
Sports and Orthopedic Physical Therapy
Christopher Goettee, PT, DPT, OCS, is licensed by Ohio Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, and Athletic Trainers Board. He is a board-certified orthopedic specialist through the ABPTS. His professional interests include performing throwing and running biomechanical analyses using video analysis software and treating the overhead athlete. He has presented nationally on incorporating breathing techniques into physical therapy examinations and treatments.
Christopher Iobst, MD
Orthopedics
Christopher Iobst, MD, is a pediatric orthopedic surgeon specializing in the fields of limb lengthening and reconstruction. He has presented his clinical and research work at national and international medical meetings and has been awarded the St. Giles Young Investigator Award by the Pediatric Orthopedic Society of North America. Dr. Iobst is an invited speaker at national conferences on external fixation and limb deformity and has written numerous articles and book chapters; he’s also an editor for the textbook Limb Lengthening and Reconstruction Surgery Case Atlas.Dr. Iobst earned his bachelor’s degree at Duke University in Durham, N.C., and his medical degree at Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta. He completed a residency in orthopedic surgery at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, and then a fellowship in pediatric orthopedics in the Harvard Combined Orthopaedic Surgery program at Boston Children’s Hospital. Dr. Iobst is active on the board of the Limb Lengthening and Reconstruction Society, a professional association dedicated to research and clinical excellence in limb lengthening, limb reconstruction, extremity deformity correction and complex fracture treatment. He is also a member of the Pediatric Surgeons of North America organization. He is certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery.
Christopher Ouellette, MD
Infectious Diseases
Chris Ouellette, MD, is a member of the Section of Infectious Diseases and Host Defense Program at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, and assistant professor of Pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. His clinical interests include infectious diseases in children, with an emphasis on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of infections in immunocompromised children. His primary research interests include novel therapeutic approaches, in particular adoptive immunotherapies for treatment of resistant or refractory viral infections in immunocompromised children.
Christy Lumpkins, LISW-S
Clinical Lead Supervisor of the Early Childhood Mental Health Program
Cody Hostutler, PhD
Pediatric Psychology
Cody Hostutler, PhD, is a licensed pediatric primary care psychologist at Nationwide Children's Hospital and assistant professor in the Department of Pediatrics at The Ohio State University. He obtained his PhD at Lehigh University, completed residency at Nemours/A.I. DuPont Hospital for Children, and fellowship at Geisinger Health System. His research interests include identifying and reducing health disparities, training medical residents in behavioral health topics, and evaluating the effects of integrating behavioral health into primary care.
Connor McDanel, MSW, LSW
Social Work
Connor J. McDanel, MSW, LSW, is a clinical social worker with the CCPR. He received his bachelor’s and master’s degree at The Ohio State University. Connor contributes biopsychosocial perspective to the CCPR team. His role includes case management, care coordination, facilitation of support groups, and collaboration with other professionals on the team to provide best outcomes for patients and families.
Corey Rood, MD
Child Abuse Pediatrics
Corey J. Rood, MD, is a fellow physician in his second year of fellowship training with Nationwide Children's Hospital’s Child Advocacy Department. He provides direct patient care in the outpatient Child Advocacy Center and Fostering Connections Clinic, and provides inpatient consultation with the Child Assessment Team (CAT). His professional interests in the subspecialty of child maltreatment include domestic and international child trafficking, domestic minor sex trafficking, child exploitation, and media-related sexting and online victimization among children and adolescents. He is also working to promote early childhood literacy in the primary care setting in collaboration with the Reach Out & Read program.
Courtney Hall, CPNP-PC
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Courtney Porter, RN, MS
Primary Care Pediatrics
Courtney Porter is a registered nurse who holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in nursing, both from The Ohio State University. She has had the pleasure of working in the Emergency Department, Pediatric Surgery Clinic, and Off-Site Urgent Care network in her 10 years at Nationwide Children’s. Courtney has a wonderful husband, two lively kids, two cats, and a dog—so there’s never a dull moment around her house!
Cristina Tomatis Souverbielle, MD
Infectious Diseases
Cristina Tomatis Souverbielle, MD is a member of the Infectious Diseases Physician Team and Fellowship Faculty at Nationwide Children's Hospital.
Curt Daniels, MD
Adolescent and Adult Congenital Heart Disease
Curt J. Daniels, MD, is Director of the Adolescent and Adult Congenital Heart Disease Program at The Heart Center at Nationwide Children's Hospital. He is Associate Professor of Clinical Cardiology at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Dr. Daniels received his medical degree from The Ohio State University. He completed his residency and received fellowship training from Children’s Hospital in Columbus. He is certified in Pediatrics, Internal Medicine and Cardiology, and is therefore uniquely qualified to diagnose, treat and provide long-term care for the growing number of adolescents and adults who are diagnosed with congenital heart disease.
Cynthia Holland-Hall, MD, MPH
Adolescent Health
Cynthia M. Holland-Hall, MD, MPH, is a member of the Section of Adolescent Health at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and an Associate Professor of Clinical Pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. She is the Medical Director of Nationwide Children’s Hospital’s Adolescent Clinic. She is board certified in pediatrics and adolescent medicine. Dr. Holland-Hall is an active member of the North American Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, the Society for Adolescent Medicine and the American Academy of Pediatrics. Her clinical interests include sexually transmitted infections, reproductive health and eating disorders. She has co-authored two texts on adolescent medicine and authored several review articles.
Dana Lenobel, FNP
Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology
Dana Lenobel, FNP, is a board-certified family nurse practitioner. She is a member of the Section of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Dana received her Master’s Degree at the University of Cincinnati and she attended The Ohio State University for her undergraduate studies where she received her Bachelors of Science in Nursing. She previously worked at the Cleveland Clinic as a nurse practitioner in their Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Her clinical interests include gynecological care for patients with special needs and developmental delays, menstrual disorders (dysmenorrhea, heavy menstrual bleeding, irregular menses, PMDD), endometriosis, pelvic pain, polycystic ovarian syndrome, vulvovaginitis, and contraception management.
Dana Noffsinger, CPNP-AC
Pediatric Surgery
Dana L. Noffsinger is a nurse practitioner with the Section of Pediatric Surgery at Nationwide Children's Hospital. He completed his master’s degree in nursing and advance practice at The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio and has been a nurse practitioner with the Pediatric Surgery Service since 2002. He is a pediatric nurse practitioner with a passion for pediatric trauma and burn care and has lectured on local and national levels on various pediatric trauma topics. He is also active in the Pediatric Trauma Society and Society of Trauma Nurses.
Dane Snyder, MD
Primary Care Pediatrics
Dane A. Snyder, MD, is the section chief in the Division of Primary Care Pediatrics at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and an associate professor of pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. In addition to his administrative duties, he provides direct patient care at the Nationwide Children's Hospital Hilltop Primary Care Center. He also precepts pediatric residents in their primary care continuity clinic at the Hilltop center. Dr. Snyder’s clinical interests include asthma, quality improvement, and teaching medical students and residents. Dr. Snyder completed the Residency Training Program in the Department of Pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine and Nationwide Children’s Hospital in June 2008.
Daniel Coury, MD
Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics
Daniel L. Coury, MD, is Chief of the Section of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and a Professor of Clinical Pediatrics and Psychiatry at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Dr. Coury received his medical degree from the University of Tennessee Center for Health Sciences, followed by an internship and residency in pediatrics at the University of Tennessee Center for Health Sciences. He was a fellow in ambulatory pediatrics at Brown University. Activities over the past two decades include federally funded projects in the areas of drug exposed infants, training in developmental and behavioral pediatrics, pediatric residency curriculum guidelines, pediatric psychopharmacology, training professionals in dual diagnosis and the establishment of a web site for developmental and behavioral pediatrics. He also is active in conducting pediatric psychopharmacology clinical trials. Dr. Coury’s research interests include developmental and behavioral pediatrics, medical education, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism. In addition to his duties as Section Chief, he is the Administrative Medical Director for Nationwide Children’s Hospital Behavioral Health Services and is Medical Director of The Autism Treatment Network of Autism Speaks.
Daniel DaJusta, MD
Urology
Daniel G. DaJusta, MD, is a surgeon in the Section of Urology and the Director of Urologic Surgery for the Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction at Nationwide Children's Hospital.
Danielle Peifer, PT, DPT
Developmental Physical Therapy
David Axelson, MD
Behavioral Health
David Axelson, MD is recognized nationally and internationally for his work in the field of child and adolescent psychiatry, pediatric bipolar disorder, diagnostic biomarkers for pediatric mood disorders, and pediatric psychopharmacology. He has published more than 125 peer-reviewed articles in leading journals including the Archives of General Psychiatry and the American Journal of Psychiatry. He was the Principal Investigator on a multisite National Institute of Mental Health funded treatment study of bipolar youth. He is also a co-Principal Investigator for two federally funded studies examining the phenomenology of pediatric bipolar disorder and the longitudinal course of offspring of bipolar parents, and a co-Investigator for four additional studies, including intervention studies aimed at preventing bipolar disorder in at-risk youths, improving medication adherence, and preventing suicide for adolescents with bipolar disorder. Dr. Axelson earned his bachelor’s degree in religious studies at Brown University and his medical degree from Duke University School of Medicine. He completed a combined General – Child and Adolescent Psychiatry residency and a NIMH Clinical Research Fellowship in Child Psychiatry, both at WPIC, where he was also Joaquim Puig-Antich Scholar in Child Psychiatric Research.
David Stukus, MD
Allergy and Immunology
Dr. David Stukus is an associate professor of pediatrics in the Section of Allergy and Immunology at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Dr. Dave, as his patients call him, is passionate about increasing awareness for allergies and asthma. His personal life is filled with fun and chaos as he is married to a Pediatric Emergency Room physician and they have 2 energetic children. His rare free time is spent following his beloved Pittsburgh and Ohio State sports teams. Follow Dr. Dave on Twitter @AllergyKidsDoc for great allergy/asthma tips!
Dean Lee, MD, PhD
Hematology and Oncology
Dean A. Lee, MD, PhD, is the Director of the Cellular Therapy and Cancer Immunotherapy Program at Nationwide Children’s and the Ohio State Comprehensive Cancer Center. Dr. Lee earned his BA in Natural Sciences from Fresno Pacific College and his MD and PhD in Microbiology and Molecular Genetics from Loma Linda University. He completed his Pediatric Residency training at Loma Linda and his fellowship in Pediatric Hematology/Oncology at Texas Children’s Hospital, Baylor College of Medicine. He is the recipient of numerous research grants from CPRIT, St. Baldrick’s Foundation, CURE, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, ASH, Alex’s Lemonade Stand and more to support his work in immunotherapy and cellular therapy, with special emphasis on NK cells. He has several ongoing and soon-to-be launched NK-based cellular therapy trials under FDA Investigational New Drug applications, and others in the pipeline for cancer and infectious diseases. His research has earned in patents and commercial licenses in the field of cellular therapy. Dr. Lee’s clinical interests include bone marrow transplantation and graft engineering for myeloid malignancies. His research interests include NK cell biology and immunotherapy.
Debbie Terry, NP
Epilepsy Center
Debbie Terry, RN, MSN, CNP is a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in the Division of Pediatric Neurology at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Her clinical and research interests are in pediatric epilepsy with a focus on parent/family education, ketogenic diet and psychogenic non epileptic seizures. Debbie has traveled to Nicaragua on mission trips to provide education to parents of children with epilepsy.
Deena Chisolm, PhD
Center for Innovation in Pediatric Practice
Dr. Chisolm is a Principal Investigator in the Center for Innovation in Pediatric Practice at The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, and is an Associate Professor of Pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine and Public Health. She is a Health Services Epidemiologist whose research is focused on measuring and improving the effectiveness, efficiency, and equity of pediatric health care. Much of her current research is focused on the role of health care technology in improving pediatric health care quality. She is also interested in research investigating the factors associated with use of e-health services by at-risk youth. In addition, Dr. Chisolm serves as a resource to Nationwide Children’s Hospital clinical researchers on issues including: the use of clinical and administrative data in research, cost-effectiveness analysis, and quality indicator development.
Deipanjan Nandi, MD MSc
Heart Transplant and Heart Failure Program
Deipanjan "Deip" Nandi, MD, is a cardiologist with the Heart Transplant & Heart Failure Program at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Originally from Fort Worth, Texas, he went on to receive an undergraduate degree in Biochemistry from Harvard University, and his medical degree from Duke University School of Medicine. He also obtained a Master’s of Science in Health Policy as a US-UK Fulbright Scholar from the London School of Economics. Dr. Nandi completed his internship and residency at CS Mott Children’s Hospital at the University of Michigan. He then moved to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, where he completed his general cardiology fellowship as well as an advanced fellowship in Heart Transplant & Heart Failure. His clinical interests include pediatric heart failure, cardiomyopathies, transplantation and mechanical circulatory support. His research interests include comparative-effectiveness research focusing on the management of pediatric heart disease, as well as outcomes research in pediatric heart transplantation.
Denis King, MD
Pediatric Surgery
Denis R. King, MD, is the Co-Medical Director of the Nutrition Support Services at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and a Clinical Professor of Surgery at The Ohio State University College of Medicine (OSUCM). He also serves on the surgical teams for Intestinal Support Services and the Trauma Program. Dr. King’s clinical interests include surgical nutrition and solid tumors. He has received many teaching awards during his time at OSUMC, including the Department of Surgery’s Denis King MD Outstanding Teacher Award, named in his honor.
Denise Ell
Molecular Genetics Laboratory
Denise Ell is a molecular specialist in the Molecular Genetics Laboratory at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Her main responsibilities currently include coordinating, preparing and distributing pediatric and adult cancer samples banked at Nationwide Children's to investigators for research. Denise is a mom of four children, Gage (19), Max (18), Megan (8) and Hailey (6). Hailey was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia on September 24, 2011 and is a patient of Dr. Olshefski. Denise lives in Blacklick with her husband, Jim.
Dennis McTigue, DDS
Dentistry
Dennis McTigue, DDS, is Professor of Pediatric Dentistry at The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. He leads the dental traumatology team at Nationwide Children's Hospital. His research interests focus on managing orofacial injuries in children and in guidance of children's behavior in the dental setting. He is a diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and a Fellow of the International Association for Dental Traumatology.
Diane Lang
Marketing and PR, Director, Social Media
Diane Lang is the Director, Social Media for Nationwide Children's Hospital where she leads social media marketing, manages Nationwide Children's consumer-focused blog and directs a complete workforce social media curriculum for a staff of more than 13,000. She also has personal knowledge of pediatric healthcare as her son is an experienced patient.
Dominique R. Williams, MD, MPH, FAAP, Dipl ABOM
Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition
Donna Teach
Marketing and PR, Chief Marketing Officer
Donna Teach is Chief Marketing & Communication Officer at Nationwide Children's. Her job is to help the hospital feel "connected" – Connected to each other, connected to our patients and their families, referring physicians, the community and the world.
Donna M. Trentel, MSA, CCLS
Family and Volunteer Services
Donna M. Trentel, MSA, CCLS, is the director of Family and Volunteer Services at Nationwide Children's Hospital.
Doug Wolf
Community Engagement
Douglas Wolf is Manager of Community Engagement at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. In this role Doug serves as the primary liaison between Nationwide Children’s, neighborhood residents and community partners to implement services and cultivate partnerships to improve population health as part of the Healthy Families, Healthy Neighborhoods initiative. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training and Sports Management with a concentration in Wellness, a Master of Science from the University of Connecticut in Allied Health with an emphasis in Health Promotion and a Master of Business Administration from Tiffin University with a concentration in Healthcare Administration.
Douglas McLaughlin, MD
Primary Care
Douglas J. McLaughlin, MD, is a clinical associate professor of pediatrics in the Section of Primary Care at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. He is the lead physician at Nationwide Children’s Near East primary care and is working on improving the accuracy of antibiotic allergies documented in the medical record.
Drew Duerson, MD
Sports Medicine
Drew Duerson, MD, is a member of the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Sports Medicine team. Dr. Duerson is a Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine and is board certified in pediatrics and sports medicine by the American Board of Pediatrics. He completed his residency in pediatrics and a fellowship in sports medicine at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. He received his Bachelor of the Arts degree in biology from Bellarmine University where he was an Academic All-American in golf. He received his medical degree from The University of Louisville School of Medicine. Dr. Duerson is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and a member of its Council on Sports Medicine and Fitness. He is also an active member of the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine and its sports ultrasound committee. He serves as team physician for Canal Winchester High School. His special interests include sports ultrasound and golf medicine.
Edward Oberle, MD, RhMSUS
Rheumatology
Ed Oberle, MD, RhMSUS is a pediatric rheumatologist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. He is board certified in rheumatology. Dr. Oberle attended medical school at The Medical College of Wisconsin and completed his residency and fellowship at the Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin. Dr. Oberle specializes in caring for children with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) with a unique focus on researching the use of ultrasound in the treatment of JIA. He is involved with multiple national committees focusing on ultrasound in rheumatology through the Childhood Arthritis and Rheumatology Research Alliance (CARRA) and Ultrasound School of North American Rheumatologist (USSONAR).
Elena Camacho
Behavioral Health
Elena Camacho is a Behavioral Health Suicide Prevention Specialist at the Behavioral Health Pavilion at Nationwide Children's Hospital.
Elise Berlan, MD
Adolescent Medicine
Dr. Berlan is a physician in the Section of Adolescent Medicine at Nationwide Childcare’s Hospital and associate professor of Pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. She is a researcher, educator, clinician and advocate for young women’s reproductive health. As founder and director of the BC4Teens/Young Women’s Contraception Program at Nationwide Children’s, she leads the hospital’s diverse efforts in teen pregnancy prevention. Dr. Berlan is also an active participant in local efforts in public health to reduce infant mortality. Dr. Berlan is a physician in the Section of Adolescent Medicine at Nationwide Childcare’s Hospital and associate professor of Pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. She is a researcher, educator, clinician and advocate for young women’s reproductive health. As founder and director of the BC4Teens/Young Women’s Contraception Program at Nationwide Children’s, she leads the hospital’s diverse efforts in teen pregnancy prevention. Dr. Berlan is also an active participant in local efforts in public health to reduce infant mortality.
Elizabeth A. Cannon, LPCC
Behavioral Health
Elizabeth is a clinical mental health counselor with years of experience working with children and families in the school and community setting. Her interests include eliminating mental health stigma, social justice, and family-centered care. She also has experience working in adolescent suicide research in the Center for Innovation and Pediatric Practice at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Currently, she is a Suicide Prevention Specialist in the Center for Suicide Prevention and Research as well as an outpatient clinician for teens with anxiety and mood disorders at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
Elizabeth Cipollone, LPCC-S
Behavioral Health
Elizabeth Cipollone, LPCC-S, has been a part of the Big Lots Behavioral Health team at Nationwide Children’s Hospital since 2012. Elizabeth began her time at Nationwide Children's as a therapist in the Multisystemic Therapy (MST) Program and is currently the MST Clinical Lead Supervisor. In addition to her role as clinical lead supervisor, she serves as a cognitive behavioral therapy consultant and trainer for the agency. Prior to Elizabeth’s time at Nationwide Children's, she provided individual and family therapy services as part of a day treatment program at a local community mental health agency
Elizabeth Murray, MD
Elizabeth Zmuda, DO
Emergency Medicine
Elizabeth Zmuda, DO, completed her residency at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in 2008. She currently works in the Department of Emergency Medicine, Urgent Care at Nationwide Children’s. She has a special interest in school health and nutrition and participates in advocacy in this area through the AAP where she co-chairs the Home and School Health Committee and is a co-medical director for the PMP program. She is also the mother of four young children, Ryan, Emily, Jonathan, and Katherine. Dr. Zmuda loves her job because she feels that her experiences with her children make her a better pediatrician, and her experiences at work make her a better mom.
Ellyn Hamm, MM, MT-BC
Music Therapy
Ellyn Hamm, MM, MT-BC is a NICU music therapist and published researcher in the Department of Neonatology at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She received her Master of Music in Music Therapy from Florida State University and Bachelor of Music in Music Therapy from The University of Alabama. She has extensive training in NICU Music Therapy techniques and interventions over the past 5 years, most recently working at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt as a music therapist and researcher in the Division of Neonatology. She is a leading expert in the clinical use of the PAL® (Pacifier Activated Lullaby) with mother’s voice, focusing on infants with severe white matter injury, and has trained over 100 nurses, therapists, and researchers in the use of this device across the United States. Ellyn is also a productive and collaborative researcher, with several published research studies and ongoing projects in music therapy programs in Florida, Alabama, and Kentucky. Her research studies focus on the neurodevelopment of preterm infants and how the use of music- and language-based rehabilitative interventions can best aid in their development. In addition to her clinical and research work Ellyn has also served as an adjunct professor in Music Therapy at Belmont University.
Emily Decker, MD
Primary Care Pediatrics
Dr. Emily Decker is an assistant professor of pediatrics in the Urgent Care and Primary Care Clinics at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She has a strong interest in child advocacy, and serves as the medical director for CAP4Kids Columbus, a website that connects families with resources and opportunities in Columbus. Her energetic toddler twin girls keep her busy in her personal life, and her interests include traveling throughout Africa and Asia. She is an avid U.S. soccer fan as well and has been to the last four World Cups. Follow Dr. Emily on Twitter @CAP4Kids for local resources and opportunities for kids.
Emily Getschman
Behavioral Health
Emily Getschman is an independent social worker and supervisor for the Middle/High School School Based Program at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She has been with Children’s for over six years and has held roles as a community based clinician, inpatient therapist and school-based clinician. She currently supervises a team of clinicians who provide mental health treatment to students in Bexley and Columbus City Schools.
Emma Wysocki, PharmD, RDN
Pharmacy
Emma Wysocki, PharmD, RDN is a pharmacy resident at Nationwide Children's Hospital. She received her undergraduate degree at The Pennsylvania State University and completed pharmacy school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Eric Butter, PhD
Pediatric Psychology
Eric M. Butter, PhD, serves as Chief of the Division of Psychology in the Department of Pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Chief of the Section of Psychology at Nationwide Children’s and Director of Nationwide Children’s Hospital’s Child Development Center. Dr. Butter is a founding faculty member of Nationwide Children’s Child Development Center: an interdisciplinary program offering multiple medical subspecialties including psychology; social work; marriage and family therapy; speech and language therapy; and genetics counseling. He obtained a Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology with a specialization in Child Clinical and Community Psychology. His graduate school studies included a broad child clinical background with training in coping and adjustment, prevention, and childhood aggression. In 1999, Dr. Butter completed a pre-doctoral internship in Pediatric Psychology and a post-doctoral fellowship in Pediatric Psychology and Developmental Disabilities in Columbus before moving into clinical research activities in neurodevelopmental disabilities and autism in collaboration with The Ohio State University Nisonger Center. His research has focused on the bio-medical correlates and potential etiologies of autism spectrum disorders and ADHD as well as psychological and medical treatment of these disorders. He is currently the PI for several medical network grants and federally funded research studies focusing on pediatrics.
Eric Leighton, AT, ATC
Sports Medicine
Eric Leighton is the lead athletic trainer for Functional Rehab at Nationwide Children's Hospital Sports Medicine. He is also the lead of the Performing Arts Medicine section within Sports Medicine. Eric has treating patients for over 20 years with a focus on performing arts athletes and dancers.
Eric Sribnick, MD, PhD
Center for Pediatric Trauma Research
Eric A. Sribnick, MD, PhD, is a pediatric neurosurgeon at Nationwide Children’s and principal investigator in the Center for Pediatric Trauma Research. He is also assistant professor of neurological surgery at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Dr. Sribnick has published more than 40 research publications, book chapters, reviews and case studies. His research and clinical interests focus on surgical and medical interventions for traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries. Dr. Sribnick has been recognized by his peers and mentors through many awards and honors, including the American Society for Neurochemistry Young Investigator Award (2004) and the George Tindell Resident Research Award (2012, 2013) from Emory University, where he completed his neurosurgery residency.
Erica Domrose, RD, LD
Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition
Erica Domrose, RD, LD, is a registered and licensed dietitian with the Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition at Nationwide Children's Hospital. She graduated in 2012 from the University of West Virginia with a bachelors of science in human nutrition. She then completed her dietetics internship through The Ohio State University Human Nutrition program. Special areas of interest include promotion of healthy lifestyles and patient and family education.
Ericca L Lovegrove, RD, LD
Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition
Ericca Lovegrove, RD, LD, is a registered and licensed dietitian with the Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She spends time on main campus, in community pediatric offices and teaching a weight management class for children and their families. She values working on a multi-disciplinary team to educate families on the importance of good nutrition and living healthy lifestyles. She is also a certified lactation specialist (CLS). In her spare time, she enjoys coaching her daughter’s soccer team, the outdoors, reading and spending time with family and friends.
Erin Johnson, M.Ed., C.S.C.S.
Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition
Erin Johnson is the Fitness and Nutrition Education Coordinator in the Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition, and she aims improve the health and well-being of families and help children reach their full potential. She has Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology and a Nutrition Science minor from Indiana University, a Master of Education in Sport & Exercise Education from The Ohio State University, and she is a Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist with the National Strength & Conditioning Association. She is a fitness and nutrition educator, an athlete (albeit not a natural or excellent one), a mom of two active, perpetually-hungry boys, and an enthusiastic foodie/eater, which has molded her professional life into one of passion for teaching, physical activity, food and nutrition, and health and social justice for all children.
Erin McKnight, MD, MPH
Adolescent Medicine
Erin R. McKnight, MD, is a member of the Section of Adolescent Medicine at Nationwide Children's Hospital and an assistant professor of Clinical Pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Her research interests involve opioid prescribing practices and adolescent opioid misuse.
Erin Tebben
Behavioral Health
Erin Tebben is a licensed professional clinical counselor and early childhood mental health consultant. She has worked with children and their families for more than ten years in a variety of settings including child welfare, mental health and prevention programs. Erin feels passionately about the power of parenting and works to ensure that parents have the skills and resources they need to feel confident and competent as they do this most important job.
Farah W. Brink, MD
The Center for Family Safety and Healing
Fatimah Masood
Behavioral Health
Fatimah Masood is a Behavioral Health Suicide Prevention Specialist at Nationwide Children's Hospital. Fatimah Masood serves as the Caring Contacts comanager for the Center for Suicide Prevention and Research (CSPR) at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Her work includes following up with youth at risk of suicide and their families after a hospital discharge via evidence-based interventions to enhance continuity of care and achieve best outcomes. Fatimah is also a diversity and inclusion committee member for the community based behavioral health team, a member of the Franklin County Suicide Prevention Coalition Communications Action team, a call-taker and trainer at the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, a Mental Health taskforce member at the Noor Islamic Community Center and a freelance artist.
Gail Bagwell, DNP, APRN, CNS
Neonatology
Gail A. Bagwell, DNP, APRN, CNS is a member of the Nationwide Children's Hospital Division of Neonatology team. She completed her undergraduate degree in nursing at West Virginia Wesleyan College, her master's in nursing at the University of Cincinnati and her doctor of nursing practice at Chatham University. Gail joined Nationwide Children's in 1993 as the Clinical Nurse Specialist in the NICU. In 2000, she became the Clinical Nurse Specialist for Perinatal Outreach where she works with the healthcare providers caring for neonates in Nationwide Children's large referral area of Central, Southeast, Northwest and Northeast Ohio. In this role, she provides education to healthcare providers on the well-newborn as well as care of the sick and premature newborn, and serves as a resource on neonatal and quality improvement initiatives. Gail's interests are neonatal abstinence syndrome, breastfeeding, safe sleep and parent transition. Gail is a member of NANN, AWHONN and Sigma Theta Tau. Gail is a regional trainer for NRP, a lead S.T.A.B.L.E. instructor and a published author having written chapters in all five editions of the Kenner and Lott "Comprehensive Neonatal Care" textbook.
Gail Besner, MD
General Pediatric Surgery
Gail E. Besner, MD, is chief of Pediatric Surgery at Nationwide Children's Hospital. She is also a principal investigator in the Center for Perinatal Research at The Abigail Wexner Research Institute and associate program director of the Pediatric Surgery Residency Program.
Gail Swisher, AT
Sports Medicine
Gail Swisher, AT, is a certified athletic trainer with Nationwide Children's Sports Medicine and serves as the Athletic Trainer at Bexley High School. Prior to joining Nationwide Children's, she was a Senior Athletic Trainer at a large hospital in Savannah, Georgia where she primarily provided outreach Athletic Training services to a local high school. Gail is a CPR Instructor with the American Heart Association and also has Athletic Training experience in Division I intercollegiate athletics. Her professional interests include pediatric athletic injuries, concussions in young athletes, and epidemiology of athletic injuries. Gail originally hails from suburban Philadelphia and also spent eight years in the Southeast before coming to Columbus. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with friends and playing with her dog Lilly.
Garey Noritz, MD
Complex Care
Garey Noritz, MD is an internist and pediatrician at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. He is section and division chief of the Complex Health Care Service, which provides a medical home to children and adults with neurodevelopmental disabilities. He is Associate Professor of Pediatrics at The Ohio State University, and the Director of the Comprehensive Cerebral Palsy Program at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Dr. Noritz is a graduate of Brown University School of Medicine, and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and of the American College of Physicians. He is Board Certified in Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Neurodevelopmental Disabilities, and Hospice and Palliative Medicine. He is active at the national level in advocating for the care of children and adults with disabilities. He is on the Executive Committee of the Council on Children with Disabilities of the American Academy of Pediatrics, and is past Chair of the Lifespan Committee of the American Academy for Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine. In 2013, he was awarded “Physician of the Year” by Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Dr. Noritz’s research interests include bone health in patients with disabilities, transition of children with disabilities to adult models of care, palliative medicine, and the respiratory care of patients with neuromuscular diseases. Dr. Noritz was the lead author of the American Academy of Pediatrics’ 2013 clinical report, “Motor Delays: Early Identification and Evaluation”, which advises Pediatricians to institute screening for motor problems in early childhood.
Gary A. Smith, MD, DrPH
Center for Injury Research and Policy
Dr. Gary Smith is a Professor of Pediatrics, Emergency Medicine and Epidemiology at The Ohio State University. He is founder and director of the Center for Injury Research and Policy of The Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Dr. Smith is board certified in the specialties of pediatrics and general preventive medicine and public health, and in the subspecialty of pediatric emergency medicine. In addition to his clinical training, he holds MPH and DrPH degrees from the Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health. Dr. Smith has been an active researcher in the field of injury for more than 25 years. He is immediate past chairperson of the national Committee on Injury, Violence and Poison Prevention (COIVPP) of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), having served on the Committee for 10 years. He also served as chairperson of the COIVPP of the Ohio Chapter of the AAP for 10 years and chairperson of the Ohio Commission on the Prevention of Injury during its existence from 2001-2003. From 2003-2006, he was a member of the Initial Review Group (research study section) for the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. He has published more than 100 injury-related articles in peer-reviewed journals, was on the editorial board of Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine for six years and is currently on the editorial board of Pediatrics. Among other awards, he was honored by the Ohio AAP as the Ohio Pediatrician of the Year in 2003, and by national Section on Injury, Violence and Poison Prevention of the AAP with the Fellow Achievement Award in 2006. He was named as the first recipient of the Dimon R. McFerson Endowed Chair in Injury Research in 2007. His research focuses on injuries to children and adolescents, including motor vehicle-related injuries, consumer product-related injuries and home safety.
Geri Hewitt, MD
Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology
Geri D. Hewitt, MD, is chief of the Section of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and an associate professor of clinical obstetrics in the Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Dr. Hewitt’s primary interests are caring for the gynecologic and reproductive health needs for young girls as well as adolescents. Dr. Hewitt is an examiner for the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Dr. Hewitt is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and a co-editor for the Journal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology’s Tips for Clinicians section.
Gina Hounam, PhD
Audiology
Gina Hounam is a member of the audiology department at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She moved to Columbus in 2011 to begin her journey at Nationwide Children’s – but her heart was in Columbus long before that as she is a graduate of The Ohio State University. Gina received a B.A. in Speech and Hearing Science in 1998 at OSU and then went to the University of Cincinnati for her M.A. and PhD in Audiology. Her professional interests include relationship-centered care, community outreach, newborn hearing screenings and hearing aids. Gina’s personal interests focus mainly on her boys’ club, including her husband of 9 years and her two little boys ages 3 and 17 months. As an avid dog lover, Gina also enjoys time with the only other girl in the home, their Golden Retriever Sydney Bella.
Gina McDowell
Behavioral Health
Gina McDowell is a licensed professional clinical counselor with Big Lots Behavioral Health Services at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Gina currently serves as a clinical educator, assessing training needs and developing educational opportunities for Behavioral Health therapy staff to promote ongoing use of current, evidence-based practice. Gina has been trained in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Multi-Family Psychoeducational Psychotherapy and The Incredible Years parent-training program.
Grace Paul, MD
Pulmonary Medicine
Grace R. Paul, MD, is a member of the Section of Pediatric Pulmonary Medicine at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and an assistant professor of pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. She is trained and board-certified in pediatric pulmonology. Her clinical interests include severe asthma, cystic fibrosis, neuromuscular diseases and chronic lung diseases. She is skilled in interpreting pulmonary function tests and also in performing bronchoscopies to evaluate upper and lower airway pathologies.
Gregory D. Pearson, MD
Center for Complex Craniofacial Disorders
Gregory D. Pearson, MD is a member of the Cleft Palate and Craniofacial team, helps staff the Vascular Malformations Clinic at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and is an Assistant Professor of Clinical Plastic Surgery at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Dr. Pearson sees patients in the Plastic Surgery Clinic located in the Outpatient Care Center at Nationwide Children’s. Along with members of the section of Neurosurgery, he now performs reconstruction of complex craniofacial anomalies at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
Guliz Erdem, MD
Infectious Diseases
Guliz Erdem, MD, is a member of the Section of Infectious Diseases at Nationwide Children's Hospital. Her clinical interests focused on pediatric infectious disease. Dr. Erdem obtained her medical degree in Ankara, Turkey at Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine and completed her residency at Hacettepe University Children's Hospital and University of Hawaii John A. Burns School of Medicine. For her fellowship, Dr. Erdem studied at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. She has been involved in a series of organizations, some of which are Society for Pediatric Research and the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Dr. Erdem has also received the grants from NIH ‘s Centers of Biomedical Research Excellence and American Heart Association.
Hannah Barton, PhD
Psychiatry and Behavioral Health
Hannah Barton, PhD is a part of the physician team of Pediatric Psychology at Nationwide Children's Hospital.
Heather Battles, MD
Emergency Medicine
Dr. Heather Battles starts her days as a mom of four and ends them as an urgent care physician for Nationwide Children’s Hospital’s Westerville Close To Home clinic. She has a wonderful husband, four young children and a Boston Terrier. On rare days when she has extra time, she likes to attend yoga classes.
Heather Clark
Marketing and Public Relations
Heather Clark is an intern for the Consumer Marketing Department at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Heather is in her senior year at The Ohio State University, where she studies strategic communications and business. She is involved with PRactice, a student run PR firm, Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) and CHAARG, an organization that aims to ignite a passion in college-aged girls for health and fitness. In her free time, Heather enjoys traveling, live music, exploring outdoors, and spending time with family and friends. Upon graduation, she hopes to stay in the Columbus area and work in the marketing and public relations field.
Heather L. Terry, MSN, RN, FNP-C, CUNP
Pediatric Urology
Heather L. Terry, MSN, RN, FNP-C, CUNP, is a nurse practitioner specializing in pediatric urology. She completed her master’s degree in nursing and advance practice at Otterbein University. Her previous experience includes practicing adult urology in an outpatient setting. Prior to obtaining her master’s, she worked as a registered nurse at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She has additional training as a first-assist in the operating room.
Heather specializes in urological problems such as urinary tract infections, overactive bladder, and other disorders of the bladder and bowel. She is an active member of Pediatric Urology Nurse Specialists.
Heather Yardley, PhD
Pediatric Psychology
Heather Yardley, PhD, is a pediatric psychologist at Nationwide Children's Hospital. She has a special interest in working with youth with type 1 diabetes and their families as well as youth with obsessive compulsive disorder. Dr. Yardley is on the board of the Society of Pediatric Psychology. Outside work, Dr. Yardley enjoys spending time with her husband and their two energetic dogs.
Henry Spiller
Central Ohio Poison Center
Henry Spiller is the director of the Central Ohio Poison Center. He has spent more than 30 years in toxicology, with more than 300 publications in the field. Henry is the proud father of five (3 girls, 2 boys) and an avid soccer player when his aging knees let him play.
Henry Xiang, MD, MPH, PhD
Center for Pediatric Trauma Research
Henry Xiang, MD, MPH, PhD, is a professor of pediatrics and epidemiology at Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University College of Medicine, and the director of the Center for Pediatric Trauma Research. He is also a principal investigator and director for International Programs in the Center for Injury Research and Policy. He currently has a national grant to consider undertriage and novel statistical approaches in comparisons across trauma levels, as well as grant support to study Access to Trauma Center Care in Ohio. He actively collaborates with investigators in China.
Herman Hundley, MS, AT, ATC, CSCS
Sports Medicine
Herman “Herm” Hundley, MS, AT, ATC, CSCS joined Nationwide Children's Hospital’s Sports Medicine Program as a certified and licensed athletic trainer in 2015. Prior to joining Nationwide Children's Hospital, Herm served as an athletic trainer at Teays Physical Therapy Center in Hurricane, West Virginia, where he oversaw the Work Conditioning program and served as Assistant Director of the Potential Plus Performance Enhancement and Revved Up CrossFit programs. Before joining Teays Physical Therapy Center, Herm worked as a graduate assistant athletic trainer at Marshall University where he worked closely with the Men’s Soccer, Softball, and Women’s Track & Field teams. Herm earned a bachelor’s degree in athletic training from the University of Toledo in 2012 and a master’s degree in sports administration from Marshall University in 2014. Herm is a certified strength and conditioning specialist and is member of the National Athletic Trainers Association and the National Strength and Conditioning Association.
Hersh Varma, MD
Ophthalmology
Dr. Varma attended Medical School at The Ohio State University and has been working as part of the Ophthalmology team at Nationwide Children's Hospital since July of 2021.
Hilary Michel, MD
Gastroenterology, Hepatology, & Nutrition
Hilary K. Michel, MD, is an attending pediatric gastroenterologist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Her clinical interests include general pediatric gastroenterology with a focus on caring for children and adolescents with IBD. Her research interests center around providing comprehensive care to children with IBD and their families, focusing on multidisciplinary care, shared decision making and health-care transition.
Hiren Patel, MD
Nephrology
Hiren Patel, MD, is chief of the Section of Nephrology and medical director of the Kidney Transplant Program at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. He is also a clinical associate professor of Pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. He received his medical degree from the University of Minnesota Medical School. His clinical interests include glomerular and tubular disorders, acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease. His research interests include improving clinical outcomes in chronic kidney disease, particularly in the dialysis and renal transplant populations. Dr. Patel is the local principal and co-investigator for multiple local and multi-center studies.
Holly Deckling, MSSW, LISW
Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction
Holly Deckling, MSSW, LISW is a Clinical Medical Social Worker Center for the Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction.
Holly W. Romer, CPNP-PC
Holly Romer is on the Nurse Practitioner Team in the Orthopedics Department.
Homa Amini, DDS, MPH, MS
Pediatric Dentistry
Homa Amini, DDS, MS, MPH, is a member of the Section of Pediatric Dentistry at Nationwide Children's Hospital and an associate professor of Clinical Pediatric Dentistry at The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. She graduated from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry with a dental degree and a master’s in public health. She received her specialty training in pediatric dentistry at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Her interest is public dental health and health policy.
Hunter Wernick, DO
Adolescent Medicine Fellowship
Hunter Wernick, DO attended medical school at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed her residency at Jefferson/Nemours A.I duPont Hospital for Children. She is currently an Adolescent Medicine fellow at Nationwide Children's Hospital.
Ibrahim Khansa, MD
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Ibrahim Khansa, MD, is a surgeon within the Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Nationwide Children's Hospital. Dr. Khansa received his medical degree from Harvard Medical School. He then completed a plastic and reconstructive surgery residency at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, including serving as chief resident. This was followed by a pediatric craniofacial fellowship at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.
Ihuoma Eneli, MD
Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition
Ihuoma U. Eneli, MD, MS is medical director at the Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and an associate professor of Clinical Pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Dr Eneli oversees the assessment clinics and medical weight management programs. Her clinical and research interest is on medical interventions for overweight children, particularly from the health care providers’ perspective. Prior to joining Nationwide Children’s, Dr. Eneli was an assistant professor of Pediatrics at Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan.
Ilana Moss, PhD
Pediatric Psychology
Ilana K. Moss is a pediatric psychology fellow at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She received her PhD in clinical psychology from the University of Southern California and completed her pre-doctoral internship at Children’s Hospital of Orange County. Her clinical interests include GI and feeding related challenges, as well as pain management strategies among children, adolescents, and young adults. Her research has focused on adolescent interpersonal relationships, depression and aggression, and on-line usage.
Ilene Crabtree, PT
Physical Therapy
Ilene Crabtree, PT has attended numerous Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT) courses since 2007 to increase her knowledge of the neurological system and its' effect on gross motor development. In November of 2010 she became NDT certified.
Irene Mikhail, MD
Allergy and Immunology
Irene Mikhail, MD is a member of the Section of Allergy and Immunology at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Prior to joining Nationwide, she worked at Children’s National Medical Center in Washington DC and the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, MD. She loves improving the quality of life and safety for children with allergies, asthma and eczema. However, she has a particular interest in treating children with food allergies and performing research to increase our understanding of the development and treatment of food allergies. Outside of work, she tries to keep up with her husband’s busy schedule as an oncologist and enjoys spending time with her two girls, ages 1 and 2. Although her time to explore has been limited, she has really enjoyed getting familiar with Columbus.
Irina Buhimschi, MD
Center for Perinatal Research
Irina Buhimschi, MD serves as director of the Center for Perinatal Research at Nationwide Children's Hospital. She is also a tenured professor in the Department of Pediatrics and Obstetrics/Gynecology at The Ohio State University College of Medicine.
Ivor Hill, MD
Celiac Disease Center
Ivor Hill, MD, MB, ChB, is director of the Celiac Disease Center, one of the signature programs within the Section of Pediatric Gastroenterology at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. He is also professor of Clinical Pediatrics at the Ohio State University College of Medicine. Dr. Hill was born and raised in South Africa and immigrated with his family to the USA in 1990. He and his wife, Barbara, have four sons, Kevin, Garick, Jared and Sorin, and one daughter, Alexa. He is a self-proclaimed crazy golf nut and also loves running and photography.
Jackie Cronau, RN, CWOCN
Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction (CCPR)
Jacqueline Wynn, PhD, BCBA-D
Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders
Jacquie Wynn, PhD is a licensed psychologist who specializes in the treatment of autism spectrum disorders. She is the founding director of the Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders at Nationwide Children's Hospital, which opened its doors in 2000, and is a faculty member of The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Jacquie is married (to another psychologist!) and has three busy children, ages 11, 9, and 6. She enjoys her work and her children, and looks forward to travel and hobbies sometime in the future!
Jaime-Dawn Twanow, MD
Neurology
Jaime Twanow, MD is an attending pediatric neurologist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and an assistant professor of Clinical Pediatrics and Neurology at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. She completed a pediatric residency, a child neurology residency and a clinical neurophysiology fellowship at Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin in Milwaukee. She is board certified in pediatrics, neurology with special qualifications in child neurology, and epilepsy. Her clinical interests include complex epilepsy care and critical care neurology.
Jaimie D. Nathan, MD, FACS
Abdominal Transplant and Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery
Dr. Nathan is Chief of Pediatric Abdominal Transplant and Hepatopancreatobiliary Surgery at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. He has devoted his career to pediatric abdominal transplantation and has extensive experience in performing liver, kidney and intestinal transplants. Dr. Nathan is also one of the world’s leading surgeons for an advanced procedure – total pancreatectomy with islet autotransplantation (TPIAT) – which helps children with debilitating pain and impaired quality of life from acute recurrent and chronic pancreatitis.
James Murakami, MD
Radiology
James W. Murakami, MD, MS is a pediatric radiologist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and a clinical assistant professor of Radiology at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Dr. Murakami received his medical degree from the University of California at San Diego and completed his internship and radiology residency at the University of Washington in Seattle. That residency included a research fellowship and two years of graduate work in Bioengineering leading to a M.S. degree. Dr. Murakami continued his training with a fellowship in pediatric radiology at the the Seattle Children’s Hospital and Regional Medical Center. Lastly, a four month fellowship in pediatric interventional radiology was completed at Pittsburgh Children’s Hospital. After two years as a staff radiologist specializing in Neuroradiology and Interventional Radiology at the Seattle Children’s Hospital and Regional Medical Center (1997-1999), Dr. Murakami and his family relocated to Columbus Ohio and he had been on staff at Nationwide Children’s Hospital up to the present. He is primarily a clinician with interventional radiology interests focusing on sclerotherapy of vascular malformations and benign cysts of the head and neck, orbits, and bones, and neuroradiology interests focusing on functional MRI. His educational and research interests include ultrasound guided procedures in children, sclerotherapy, and functional MRI.
James Popp, MD
Hand Program
James E. Popp, MD, co-director of the Hand Service at Nationwide Children's Hospital and an adjunct assistant professor of orthopaedic surgery at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. He attended medical school at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and completed his residency at The Ohio State University. Dr. Popp then completed a hand and upper extremity surgery fellowship at the distinguished Indiana Hand Center, Indianapolis, Indiana. He specializes in surgery of the hand and upper extremity in adult and pediatric patients. His expertise includes common hand problems (such as carpal tunnel syndrome), wrist arthroscopy, joint replacement surgery for arthritis, and complex pediatric and adult reconstructive micro-vascular surgery. He is a member of the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgeons, American Society for Surgery of the Hand, Mid-American Orthopaedic Association, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, American Medical Association and the Ohio State Medical Association.
Jameson Mattingly, MD
Neurotology Fellow, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
Jameson Mattingly, MD is currently the Otology/Neurotology fellow at The Ohio State University and Nationwide Children’s Hospital. He completed his residency in Otolaryngology at the University of Colorado prior to coming to OSU. At the conclusion of his fellowship, he will be joining faculty at OSU where he will work with both adults and children in all aspects of otology, including chronic otitis media/cholesteatoma, hearing loss, cochlear implantation, and tumors of the skull base. His clinical and research interests include hearing devices, mainly cochlear implants, and balance disorders.
Jamie Macklin, MD
Adult Medicine and Hospital Pediatrics
Jamie Macklin, MD is an adult medicine and pediatric hospitalist, currently practicing at the The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She received her medical degree from Tulane University School of Medicine in New Orleans, LA, and completed an internal medicine/pediatrics residency at the OSU Medical Center/Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH. Her clinical interests currently include quality improvement regarding safe sleep and breastfeeding education. When not in the hospital, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Josh, and two young daughters.
Jamie Reedy
Center for Injury Research and Policy
Jamie Reedy is a research student in the Center of Injury Research and Policy.
Jane Abel
Marketing and Public Relations
Jane Abel is a Video Marketing Account Manager at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She creates video and interactive products for consumer, physician, research, donor and internal audiences. Jane is a mom to two children, 6-year-old Ellie and 2-year-old Robby. Ellie suffers from a severe peanut allergy and is a patient of Dr. Roger Friedman, Allergy & Immunology, at Nationwide Children’s. Jane lives in New Albany with her husband, Rob.
Janelle Huefner, MA, CCC-SLP
Speech Pathology
Janelle Huefner, MA, CCC-SLP, is a board certified speech-language pathologist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She received her master’s degree in communicative disorders and sciences and has been a practicing pediatric speech language pathologist for 20 years in hospitals, home-based early intervention programs, educational settings including private, public and charter schools as well as private practice. She has received Orton-Gillingham training, is in the process of obtaining Auditory-Verbal Therapy certification, and is a member of the Hearing Program at Nationwide Children’s Hospital focusing on spoken language and literacy development with hearing impaired patients and patients with dyslexia.
Janice Townsend, DDS, MS
Dentistry
Janice A. Townsend, DDS, MS, is the chief of Pediatric Dentistry at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and the chair of the Division of Pediatric Dentistry at The Ohio State University College of Dentistry. Dr. Townsend received her doctor of dental surgery degree from Marquette University’s School of Dentistry in Milwaukee. She then earned a master of science degree in pediatric dentistry from The Ohio State University College of Dentistry, and a certificate in pediatric dentistry from Nationwide Children’s. Dr. Townsend has been published on a number of topics including dental education, pain management after dental procedures and dentistry for special needs children. Before joining Nationwide Children's, Dr. Townsend was the chair of Pediatric Dentistry at the Louisiana State University Health Science Center School of Dentistry in New Orleans. While in New Orleans, Dr. Townsend was named “Woman of the Year” in 2017 by CityBusiness, and named to New Orleans’ list “Top Dentists” since 2013.
Jared Sylvester
Advocate
Jared grew up a resident of Upper Arlington and is a proud graduate of The Ohio State University. Jared was treated at Nationwide Children’s Hospital for Osteosarcoma, a rare bone cancer. Now an eight-year survivor Jared is a strong advocate in the cancer community in central Ohio. He is a connecting families mentor and volunteer at Nationwide Children's, he is a very active member of the Adolescent Young Adult (AYA) Survivorship program – a partnership between Nationwide Children's and The James - he is also a Next Generation James Ambassador, a four-time rider in Pelotonia, and has been an honored guest and speaker at numerous central Ohio cancer awareness and fundraising events. Jared and his wife, Melissa, live in Upper Arlington and Jared is a proud employee of Cardinal Health in Dublin.
Jaysson Eicholtz
GMP Operations
Jaysson Eicholtz, Director of GMP Operations, has been with Nationwide Children's Hospital since 2015. He has 18 years of experience in the FDA regulated industry in operations management roles working with vaccines, cell based therapy, OTC drugs and controlled substance manufacturing.
Jean Hruschak, MA, CCC/SLP
Jeff Sydes, CSCS
Sports Medicine
Jeff Sydes, CSCS is the lead sports performance specialist for Nationwide Children's Hospital Sports Medicine Program. He is a certified strength and conditioning specialist through the National Strength & Conditioning Association. Prior to coming to Nationwide Children's, Dr. Sydes served as the fitness coordinator for New Albany High School, training all of its teams and athletes. Jeff also spent two years in the private sector working with youth, high school, collegiate and professional athletes in the greater Columbus area. He began his coaching career and worked several years at the division 1 collegiate level. His experiences included stints at the University of Kentucky, University of California Los Angeles and Arizona State University. Dr. Sydes earned his BA from Emory University in Atlanta, GA. He also spent a year in the exercise science graduate school program at Arizona State University.
Jeffrey Hoffman, MD
Clinical Informatics
Jeffrey M. Hoffman, MD, is a physician and chief of the Division of Clinical Informatics at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and an associate professor of pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Dr. Hoffman attended medical school at Jefferson Medical College in Philadelphia, completed his pediatric residency at All Children's Hospital, and in 1995, completed his Pediatric Emergency Medicine Fellowship at Children's Mercy Hospital in 1995. Dr. Hoffman came to Nationwide Children's Hospital in 2003 and is now Chief Medical Information Officer overseeing Nationwide Children's clinical information systems. He established the Division of Clinical Informatics 2016 and one of the nation's first ACGME-accredited clinical informatics fellowship training programs the following year.
With over 20 years of Emergency Department experience, Dr. Hoffman has long understood the value of information and information technology caring for patients and families, and in communicating with other healthcare professionals. Through the use of electronic health records and other technologies, Dr. Hoffman and his fellow physician informaticists support direct patient care activities, population health management programs, quality and safety initiatives, and various research projects.
Jen Campbell, PT, MSPT
Physical Therapy
Jen Campbell, PT, MSPT is a developmental pediatric physical therapist in the outpatient physical therapy department at Nationwide Children's Hospital. She graduated with a Master’s degree from D’Youville College in Buffalo, NY in 2003. She works in the outpatient clinic treating patients with a variety of diagnoses. Jen is also a therapist in the Neurodevelopmental Clinic where she completes developmental assessments on patients.
Jenn Gonya, PhD
NICU
Jenn Gonya, PhD is a NICU developmental specialist, educational psychologist and researcher in the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Small Baby NICU, a unit dedicated to the care of extremely premature infants. Her passion lies in providing a voice for premature infants that people can hear, understand, and deeply appreciate.
Jennie Aldrink, MD
General Pediatric Surgery
Jennifer Aldrink, MD's surgical interests focus on pediatric and adolescent surgical oncology, including chest and abdominal solid tumors such as neuroblastoma, Wilms tumor, ovarian tumors, sarcoma, melanoma, thyroid cancer and metastatic disease. She is the director of Surgical Oncology, a member of the Thyroid Disease team and the Pigmented Skin Lesion team. She is a graduate of the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University and completed her general surgery residency at Duke University Medical Center. Dr. Aldrink completed a fellowship in pediatric surgery at Nationwide Children's Hospital.
Dr. Aldrink is a member of the Children's Oncology Group (COG), and participates actively on the Renal Tumor Committee, Surgical Committee, and Rare Tumor Committee. She is a member of the Society of Surgical Oncology, International Society of Pediatric Surgical Oncology, the Pediatric Surgical Oncology Research Collaborative, and the Cancer Committee of the American Pediatric Surgical Association. She is also a member of The American College of Surgeons, The Society of University Surgeons, American Academy of Pediatrics and American Pediatric Surgical Association.
Jennifer Borda, PT, DPT
Sports and Orthopedic Physical Therapy
Jenny Borda, PT, DPT is a physical therapist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital at the Dublin Sports Medicine building. She graduated with her Doctorate in Physical Therapy in 2008 from The Ohio State University and has been working at Nationwide Children's since then. She is a STOTT PILATES® certified instructor and has a special interest in treating gymnasts and dancers. Jenny grew up as a competitive gymnast and has continued to stay active in sports, currently as a competitive CrossFit athlete.
Jennifer Reese, PsyD
Pediatric Psychology
Jennifer Reese, PsyD is a clinical psychologist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital who oversees the development and delivery of education for clinical staff within Behavioral Health. She also serves as a faculty member for all levels of Psychology training within the hospital.
Jennifer Smith, MS, RD, CSP, LD, LMT
Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition
Jen Smith, MS, RD, CSP, LD, LMT is a clinical dietitian at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She has been working at Nationwide Children’s with an emphasis in Gastroenterology since 2003. She is a board certified specialist in pediatric nutrition. In 2009, she was awarded Ohio Dietetic Association’s Recognized Young Dietitian of the Year. She is active member and has been involved with speaking engagements within many organizations including the Academy for Nutrition and Dietetics and the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America. She is an active participant in ImproveCareNow, a quality improvement collaborative, dedicated to improving care for pediatric inflammatory bowel disease. In addition to working as a dietitian, Jen is also a Licensed Massage Therapist at Nationwide and lives in Dresden with her husband Jeff and son Bennett.
Jennifer Walton, MD, MPH, FAAP
Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics
Jennifer Walton, MD, MPH, FAAP, is an assistant professor of Clinical Pediatrics at The Ohio State University, and an attending physician in Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She completed her residency in Pediatrics at the Children’s Hospital of Michigan, her fellowship in Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and earned her Master’s in Public Health from the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine.
Dr. Walton is the Director of Clinical Services at the Ohio State University’s Nisonger Center, one of the nation’s University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD). Dr. Walton is also an Associate Director of the Ohio State’s Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (LEND) Program, one of fifty-two LEND programs funded by the Maternal Child Health Bureau (MCHB), with the purpose of providing trainees from diverse professions with leadership development and education in interdisciplinary care and management of individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Dr. Walton is the Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics Resident Rotation Director for Nationwide Children’s Hospital’s pediatric residency program, and the Co-Director of the hospital’s Williams Syndrome Clinic.
Dr. Walton specializes in the identification and management of children with Williams syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, developmental delay, intellectual disability, and other behavioral and developmental disabilities, as well as the interdisciplinary collaboration and management of these individuals.
Jenny Worthington, PT, DPT
Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition
Jenny is a licensed physical therapist with the Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition at Nationwide Children's Hospital. She graduated in 2009 from the Physical Therapy Program in the School of Allied Health Professions at The Ohio State University. Prior to working in the Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition, Jenny worked as a physical therapist at Good Samaritan North Health Center in Dayton, Ohio, where she rehabilitated patients of all ages with both orthopedic and neurological limitations.
Jerry R. Mendell, MD
Center for Gene Therapy
Jerry R. Mendell, MD is an attending neurologist at Nationwide Children’s, director of the Center for Gene Therapy at The Research Institute of Nationwide Children’s, director of the Paul D. Wellstone Muscular Dystrophy Cooperative Research Center, co-director of the Muscular Dystrophy Association Clinic, and a professor of Pediatrics, Neurology, Pathology, and Physiology and Cell Biology at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Dr. Mendell was among the first to test muscle cell transplantation for Duchenne muscular dystrophy in the early 1990’s and the first person to study viral mediated gene therapy for muscular dystrophy in humans. Dr. Mendell has made fundamental contributions in clinical research and in the molecular genetics of neuromuscular disease. He has published major textbooks on the disorders of muscle and peripheral nerves along with more than 300 scientific articles and book chapters. In 2004, Dr. Mendell was awarded the S. Mouchly Small Scientific Achievement Award from the Muscular Dystrophy Association in recognition of his significant contributions to neuromuscular disease research. In 2009 he was presented the Distinguished Scholar Award by the president of The Ohio State University. Dr. Mendell is named among the “Best Doctors in America.”
Jessalyn Mayer, MSOT, OTR/L
Occupational Therapy
Jessalyn Mayer, MSOT, OTR/L is an outpatient occupational therapist at the Dublin Close to Home Center. Her past experience and continuing education has primarily focused on fine motor, visual motor, developmental and sensory-based treatment. She enjoys working with children with a variety of diagnoses and abilities to help further develop their skills and increase independence in daily activities.
Jessica Bogacik, MS, MT-BC
Hospice and Home-Based Palliative Care
Jessica Bogacik, MS, MT-BC is a board-certified music therapist and works on Nationwide Children's Hospital’s home-based hospice and palliative care team. Jessica received her Master of Science in Music Therapy from Radford University, under the supervision of Jim Borling MM, MT-BC. Jessica completed her clinical internship at Cleveland's University Hospitals Case Medical Center with Dr. Deforia Lane, PhD, MT-BC. She has participated in research using music therapy interventions with critically ill patients, and with hospitalized patients demonstrating depressive symptoms. Jessica’s experience as a music therapist is varied, including work with the elderly, medically and psychiatrically hospitalized adults, children with disabilities, and individuals receiving hospice care. Jessica has worked at Nationwide Children's Hospital since August 2015.
Jessica Brock
Outpatient Physical Therapy
Jessica Brock, PT, DPT, PCS is a developmental pediatric physical therapist in the outpatient physical therapy department. She completed a post-doctoral pediatric residency program at The Ohio State University and she is a board-certified pediatric clinical specialist. She works in the outpatient clinic serving patients with a variety of diagnoses. She is also a physical therapist in the Neonatology Follow Up Clinic where she completes developmental assessments on infants and toddlers.
Jessica Bullock, MA/CCC-SLP
Clinical Therapies
Jessica Bullock is a staff Speech-Language Pathologist at Nationwide Children’s Westerville Close to Home. She has been in the field for 18 years with an extensive background with the pediatric population. She is licensed by The Ohio Speech Board of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology and holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence through the American Speech-Language Hearing Association.
Jessica Buschmann, RD
Sports Medicine
Jessica Buschmann, MS, RD, LD, is a registered dietitian with Nationwide Children’s Sports Medicine. As part of her role at Nationwide Children’s, she provides nutrition services to Ohio Dominican University’s athletic teams and the general student population. She is registered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration and licensed by the Ohio Board of Dietetics. Before joining the Nationwide Children's Sports Medicine team, Jessica completed her Master’s degree at Marywood University in Sports Nutrition and Exercise Science. Jessica’s professional interests include Female Athlete Triad management and prevention, employee wellness, and meal planning for optimal sports performance. Jessica’s personal interests include anything outdoors, running, cooking with friends and family, grocery shopping (especially at Farmer’s Markets!), trying new restaurants around Columbus, spontaneous and planned traveling adventures, skydiving, and reading with a good cup of java in local coffee shops.
Jessica Scherr, PhD
Behavioral Health
Jessica F. Scherr, PhD is a psychologist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital’s Child Development Center. She received her doctorate in school psychology from the University of South Carolina. She completed her postdoctoral training at Nationwide Children’s Hospital furthering her experience in clinical research with children with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Her clinical interests are to provide diagnostic and treatment services to children with neurodevelopmental disabilities, as well as monitor developmental outcomes of children that are at increased risk for developmental delays, behavioral difficulties, and/or social-emotional impairment. Her research interests focus on understanding the relationship between biobehavioral factors and developmental outcomes in children with neurodevelopmental disorders. Her current research focuses on examining physiological markers of arousal and emotion regulation in young children at risk for social-emotional and attention difficulties.
Jim O’Shea OT, MOT, CHT
Sports and Orthopedic Physical Therapy
Jim O’Shea OT, MOT, CHT is a Certified Hand Therapist in the Sports and Orthopedic Physical Therapy Department at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. He completed both undergraduate and graduate degrees in Occupational Therapy at Quinnipiac University (’00, ’11). Jim has been a Certified Hand Therapist since 2006 and has been an active member of the American Society of Hand Therapists. He started working at Nationwide Children's in 2010 after moving from the NY/NJ area. In 2012, Jim was glad to be part of a mission trip that traveled to India to assist with reconstructive procedures for patients with traumatic and/or congenital upper extremity injuries. In his spare time, Jim enjoys traveling, finding great restaurants, spending time with his dog, and staying active through Crossfit and running.
Joan Fraser, MSW, LISW-S
Comprehensive Pain Management
Joan Fraser is a Social Worker in the Comprehensive Pain Management Clinic at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She received her Master’s Degree from the Ohio State University. She has over 30 years of clinical experience. She values her current multidisciplinary setting where she is active in educating patients and their families about managing chronic pain and living healthy lives.
John Ackerman, PhD
Center for Suicide Prevention and Research
John Ackerman, PhD, is a clinical psychologist in Behavioral Health and Suicide Prevention Coordinator for the Center for Suicide Prevention and Research (CSPR) at Nationwide Children's Hospital. He directs community, school, and hospital efforts to educate others about the risks and warning signs of pediatric suicide. Dr. Ackerman has contributed to ongoing investigations at The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's regarding risk factors for adolescent suicide. He is also interested in how social media can contribute to suicide prevention.
John Kovalchin, MD
Cardiology
John P. Kovalchin, MD, is Director of Echocardiography at The Heart Center at Nationwide Children's Hospital and a professor of pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Dr. Kovalchin received his medical degree from the Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine. He completed his residency at Nationwide Children's Hospital and fellowships at Texas Children's Hospital and the University of California Medical Center Parnassus. He is certified in both pediatric cardiology and pediatrics.
Jonathan D. Thackeray, MD
The Center for Family Safety and Healing
Jonathan D. Thackeray, MD is the former chief of the Division of Child and Family Advocacy at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and associate professor of clinical pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. He served as medical director of The Center for Family Safety and Healing and oversaw the Child Assessment Center and Fostering Connections Programs. Dr. Thackeray is active in the American Academy of Pediatrics and is currently on the board of directors of the Ohio Chapter. He is a member of the American Professional Society on the Abuse of Children, the Ray E. Helfer Society and the Ambulatory Pediatric Association. His professional interests include community health, recognition of sentinel injuries and intimate partner violence. He is board certified in general pediatrics and child abuse pediatrics.
Jonathan Finlay, MB, ChB, FRCP
Hematology, Oncology and BMT
Jonathan L. Finlay, MB, ChB, FRCP is the Program Director of Neuro-Oncology at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Dr. Finlay is a tenured Professor of Pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. He is an internationally recognized expert in pediatric brain tumors and has authored or co-authored over 200 peer-reviewed publications in leading medical journals and over 80 review articles and book chapters. Prior to coming to Nationwide Children’s, Dr. Finlay was the Director of the Neural Tumors Program at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and served as Professor of Pediatrics, Neurology & Neurological Surgery at the Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California. Between 1982 and 2003, he held faculty positions in Pediatric Oncology at Stanford University (1980-1982), University of Wisconsin-Madison (1982-1987), University of Pennsylvania (1987-1989), Cornell University/Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (1989-1993) and New York University (1997-2003).
Jonathan M. Grischkan, MD
Otolaryngology
Jonathan Grischkan, MD, is a member of the Department of Otolaryngology at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and is an assistant professor of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Dr. Grischkan received his medical degree from Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, in 2005 and went on to complete his residency in Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery at The Ohio State University Medical Center in Columbus. Dr. Grischkan spent an additional year of fellowship training in Pediatric Otolaryngology at the Children’s Hospitals and Clinic of Minnesota in Minneapolis. He is board certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology. Dr. Grischkan’s clinical and research interests primarily focus on problems relating to cleft lip and palate, vascular lesions, craniofacial disorders, mandibular hypoplasia, airway obstruction, sleep apnea and all aspects of pediatric otolaryngology and facial reconstructive surgery. He currently sees patients at the Main Campus and Westerville Close to Home locations.
Jonathan Napolitano, MD
Sports Medicine
Jonathan Napolitano, MD, brings diverse training and experience to our physician team with dual appointments in both Sports Medicine and Orthopedics. Board certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation with subspecialty certification in Sports Medicine, Dr. Napolitano is uniquely prepared to care for athletes of all ages, experience levels, and physical abilities. He serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Dr. Napolitano was also a Sports Medicine fellow from 2016 to 2017. Originally from Northeast Ohio, Dr. Napolitano grew up playing soccer, basketball and lacrosse. He attended Georgetown University where he competed on the men's lightweight crew team and studied health care management and policy. He returned to Ohio for medical school at the University of Toledo and completed his internship in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Dr. Napolitano's completed his residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Loyola University in Chicago, with training in adult and pediatric musculoskeletal and neurologic medicine. During residency, he was actively involved in student education, clinical research and administrative responsibilities in his role as chief resident. Dr. Napolitano’s research interests include the management of back pain and emerging technologies in diagnosis and treatment of tendonopathies. He is an active member of both the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and the American Medical Society for Sports Medicine, currently serving as the fellow liaison to the membership committee.
Joshua Prudent, MD
Pediatric Residency Program
Joshua Prudent, MD is currently training as a pediatric resident at Nationwide Children's Hospital. Dr. Prudent completed medical school at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.
Julee Eing, CRA, RT(R)
Radiology
Julee Eing, CRA RT(R) is the clinical operations manager for Radiology at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
Julia Colman, MOT, OTR/L
Occupational Therapy
Julia Colman, MOT, OTR/L is a member of the inpatient occupational therapy team at Nationwide Children's Hospital. She completed her bachelor's degree in psychology from The Ohio State University in 2012 and her master's degree in occupational therapy from Nova Southeastern University in 2015. Julia has special interests in pediatric acute care and oncology rehabilitation.
Julie Leonard, MD, MPH
Center for Pediatric Trauma Research
Dr. Leonard is an associate professor of pediatrics at Nationwide Children's Hospital and the Ohio State University College of Medicine. She is a board certified pediatric emergency medicine subspecialist and practices medicine in the emergency department at Nationwide Children's Hospital. At Nationwide Children's Hospital Research Institute, she serves as the director of clinical research for the Center for Injury Research and Policy and the associate director for the Center for Pediatric Trauma Research. Over the course of her career, she has developed expertise in the emergency management of injured children. She has published extensively in the area of cervical spine injury management and is the recent recipient of an NIH grant aimed at laying the groundwork for the development and implementation of Pediatric Cervical Spine Injury Risk Assessment Tool that will be for use by both prehospital and emergency department providers. She is also a research collaborator in the Pediatric Emergency Care Applied Research Network (PECARN).
Julie Racine, PhD
Eye Clinic
Julie Racine, PhD received her doctorate from McGill University in Montreal, Canada. She has been with Nationwide Children’s Hospital since 2011. Her clinical and research interests are in ophthalmology and human/animal clinical visual electrophysiology.
Julie Samora, MD
Hand Program
Julie Balch Samora, MD received her orthopaedic training at The Ohio State University and completed a fellowship in hand and upper extremity at Harvard. She earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts at Carnegie Mellon University, a masters of music at Yale University, and an MD/PhD at West Virginia University, where she also concomitantly earned masters degrees in public health and public administration. Dr. Samora specializes in pediatric hand and upper extremity, with a focus on congenital differences, brachial plexus birth palsy, cerebral palsy and trauma. She is a member of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH) Evidence Based Practice Committee, ASSH Ethics and Professionalism Committee, the Ruth Jackson Orthopaedic Society (RJOS) Scientific Committee, and the RJOS Professional Development Committee. She has published dozens of peer-reviewed manuscripts, written multiple text book chapters, and has presented at numerous regional and national conferences. Dr. Samora has a passion to provide safe, efficient, and excellent patient care, focusing on best practices and quality improvement initiatives as director of Orthopedic Quality.
Jun Yasuhara, MD
Cardiovascular Research
Dr. Jun Yasuhara received his MD from Keio University School of Medicine, Japan in 2007. He completed his pediatric residency and pediatric cardiology fellowship at Keio University Hospital, Japan in 2017. He is a board-certified pediatric cardiologist. He underwent a basic research training on cardiovascular development and genetics of congenital heart disease under the mentorship of Dr. Hiroyuki Yamagishi.
Justin Indyk, MD, PhD
Endocrinology
Justin A. Indyk, MD, PhD is a member of the Section of Endocrinology at Nationwide Children's Hospital and is an assistant professor of clinical pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. After completing undergraduate studies at University of California at San Diego, (in La Jolla, CA), Dr. Indyk went on to complete his MD and PhD at the State University of New York at Stony Brook, on Long Island, in 2003 and went on to pediatric internship/residency and then pediatric endocrinology fellowship at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh. Dr. Indyk is board certified by the American Board of Pediatrics in pediatrics and pediatric endocrinology. Dr. Indyk's clinical and research interests include adrenal disorders, diabetes, genetics, and disorders of sexual development and puberty.
Kamilah Twymon, LPCC-S
Behavioral Health
Kamilah Twymon, LPCC-S has been part of the Behavioral Health team at Nationwide Children's Hospital since 2007 and is currently the clinical coordinator of the School Based Program and Community Partnerships. She collaborates with Columbus, Bexley and Canal Winchester school districts along with several community partners on wellness and prevention efforts. Prior to her current role Kamilah provided oversight to the Community Based Programs. Kamilah began her career at Nationwide Children's as a therapist and then supervisor with the Multi-Systemic Therapy Program.
Kara Malone, MD
Teen and Pregnant (TaP) Program
Kara L. Malone, MD is a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist at The Ohio State University. She joined Nationwide Children’s Hospital as medical director of the Teen and Pregnant (TaP) Program in 2015. Her clinical interests include the care of pregnant adolescents and providing culturally sensitive care to minorities, including the LGBTQAI population.
Kara Miller, OTR/L
Occupational Therapy
Kara Miller, OTR/L, MOT, has been an outpatient occupational therapist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital since 2009. Kara has a special interest in feeding. She works full time with the Comprehensive Pediatric Feeding Program. Kara treats complex feeding patients on the intensive feeding track and outpatient clinic setting utilizing a transdisciplinary team approach. She works with children with a variety of diagnoses and abilities to improve feeding and oral motor skills.
Karen Allen, MD
Pediatrics
Karen Allen, MD is a 3rd year pediatric resident at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She completed her medical school training at The Ohio State University and her undergraduate degree at the University of Notre Dame. She has a special interest in Safe Sleep, fever in the neonate, and other newborn issues. She plans on completing a Hospital Medicine fellowship after completing a chief resident year.
Karen Rachuba, RD, LD, CLC
Clinical Nutrition and Lactation
Karen Rachuba RD, LD, IBCLC is a pediatric dietitian and international board certified lactation consultant who has worked at NCH since 2007. With previous expertise in gastroenterology related nutrition concerns, Karen now works full time with the Lactation Team supporting parents and babies with their human milk journey.
Kari Dubro, MS, RD, LD, CWWS
Employee Wellness
Kari DuBro, MS, RD, LD, CWWS is the Employee Wellness Program Manager at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Kari graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Dietetics from The Ohio State University and a Masters of Science in Nutrition from Arizona State University. Kari believes that an important part of her role is creating a healthier environment at Nationwide Children’s Hospital by promoting healthy norms, helping employees find ways to be more physically active, and planning educational wellness programs. Kari is passionate about motivating others to live a healthy lifestyle. She enjoys teaching group fitness classes, running, traveling, practicing yoga, reading, and spending time with her husband, Evan, and three young children, Ella, Mason, and Sophie.
Kari A. Meeks, OT
Occupational Therapy
Kari A. Meeks, MOT, OTR/L, is licensed by The Ohio Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy and Athletic Trainers Board. She is a developmental occupational therapist who completes homecare services throughout the Columbus area, as well as outpatient services at the Hilliard Close to Home Center.
Kari Phang, MD
South Carolina Children’s Hospital, Pediatric Academic Fellow
Karla Vaz, MD
Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition
Karla Vaz, MD, MEd, is an attending pediatric gastroenterologist at Nationwide Children's Hospital and member of the Motility Center. She is also an assistant professor of clinical pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Dr. Vaz attended the University of Florida for both her undergraduate and medical education. After completing her pediatric residency at Cincinnati Children's Hospital, she continued on as a pediatric hospitalist. She then completed her pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology and nutrition fellowship at Cincinnati Children's. Her clinical interests include all gastrointestinal disorders with a special interest in intestinal dysmotility with a focus on constipation and encopresis. She is also interested in education of patients and families about gastrointestinal disorders including functional bowel disorders as well as inflammatory bowel disease.
Karyn L. Kassis, MD, MPH
Emergency Medicine
Karyn L. Kassis, MD, MPH is an emergency medicine physician at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She graduated from University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine in 1999 with a dual degree in medicine and public health and completed her residency in general pediatrics at The Johns Hopkins Hospital in 2002. She began her appointment at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in 2009 and has been published in Current Problems in Pediatric and Adolescent Health Care in the past.
Kasey Strothman, MD
Allergy and Immunology
Kasey Strothman, MD is an assistant professor of pediatrics in the Division of Allergy and Immunology. She graduated with a BA from Saint Louis University in Saint Louis, MO before then attending the University of Louisville School of Medicine. She graduated with her medical degree in 2010. After completing a pediatrics residency at Kosair Children’s Hospital in Louisville, KY in 2013, she relocated to Columbus, OH for an allergy/immunology fellowship at The Ohio State University. Following completion of fellowship in 2015, she joined the faculty at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
Kasey Strothman is board-certified in allergy and immunology, and a fellow of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. In 2020 she became director of the Complex Asthma Clinic at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She has an active interest in primary immunodeficiency as well, and currently serves on a multidisciplinary team that provides specialty care to patients with 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome. She has a strong interest in anaphylaxis, and has been collaborating with Columbus Division of Fire since 2016 on a research project to improve knowledge about anaphylaxis and standardize management of anaphylaxis in the prehospital setting. In addition to providing patient care, she enjoys working with the fellows as an educator particularly as a preceptor for second year continuity clinic.
She currently resides in Dublin, OH with her husband of nine years and two children.
Katelyn Krivchenia, MD
Pulmonary Medicine
Katelyn Krivchenia, MD, is a member of the Section of Pediatric Pulmonary Medicine at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and an assistant professor of pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine.
Katherine Deans, MD
Center for Innovation in Pediatric Practice
Katherine Deans, MD graduated from Dartmouth Medical School and completed a surgery residency and research fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital and the National Institutes of Health. She is board certified by the American Board of Surgery in Surgery, Surgical Critical Care, and Pediatric Surgery. She is a member of the American College of Surgeons, Society of Critical Care Medicine, and the American Pediatric Surgical Association.
Katherine McCracken, MD FACOG
Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology
Kate McCracken, MD FACOG is a distinguished member of Nationwide Children’s Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology team. Dr. McCracken’s diverse clinical and research interests include ovarian masses, cysts and tumors; müllerian anomalies; vaginal agenesis; menstrual disorders (dysmenorrhea, heavy menstrual bleeding and irregular menses); pelvic pain; contraception; pediatric vulvovaginitis; vulvar and hymenal abnormalities; polycystic ovarian syndrome; preventative gynecologic care; and gynecologic care for patients with special needs and developmental delays.Dr. McCracken has a long history of academic and clinical research — from her first peer reviewed published work as an undergraduate at Kalamazoo College in Kalamazoo, MI, to her latest publication in the journal Seminars in Pediatric Surgery. As a fellow at Kosair Children’s Gynecology Specialists at Kosair Children’s Hospital in Louisville, KY, Dr. McCracken investigated the use of norethindron acetate for the management of bothersome bleeding associated with the etonogestrel contraceptive implant. Dr. McCracken was also actively involved in research during medical school at Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit and during residency at The Ohio State University.
Katherine Redden
Outreach Coordinator
Katherine Redden is an outreach coordinator in the HIV 340B Program at Nationwide Children's Hospital.
Kathleen Nicol, MD
Pathology & Laboratory Medicine
Kathleen K. Nicol, MD, is the Vice Chair of Clinical Laboratory, Director of Transfusion Services, Point of Care Testing, Off-Site Laboratories and Perioperative Autologous Blood Program at Nationwide Children's Hospital and a Clinical Professor of Pathology at The Ohio State University College of Medicine.
Kathryn J. Junge, RN, BSN
The Heart Center
Kathryn J. Junge, RN, BSN started her adult congenital heart disease experience in St. Louis, MO, at Barnes Jewish Hospital/Washington University School of Medicine, where she helped develop their program. She joined Nationwide Children's Hospital in April 2013 as a nurse clinician on the adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) team. In this role, she coordinates the care of ACHD patients by arranging tests and referrals, providing discharge during clinic visits and discharge planning for hospitalized patients, and provides patient education.
Katia Camille Halabi, MD
Katia Camille Halabi, MD is apart of the Infectious Diseases Physician Team.
Katie Brind'Amour, MS
Marketing and Public Relations
Katie Brind’Amour, MS, CHES is former senior science writer and editor for Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She lives in Reynoldsburg with her husband and an excitable mutt, and she is anxiously awaiting the birth of her first baby boy. In her free time, she loves to cook, travel and scour Netflix for addictive new shows.
Katie Thomas, APR
Marketing and Public Relations
Katie Thomas, APR is an account manager on the consumer marketing team at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, where she focuses on community wellness and population health initiatives. Katie is incoming president-elect of the Central Ohio chapter of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). For her commitment to Central Ohio PRSA, she received the Walt Seifert Award for Outstanding Service. She also volunteers her time by mentoring students at South High School and The Ohio State University. Katie received her bachelor’s degree from Otterbein University and her master’s degree from The Ohio State University. She is accredited in public relations. Katie also teaches Spinning classes.
Katrina Hall, MA, CCLS
Katrina Hall, MA, CCLS, is a Child Life Specialist at the Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She supports patients and families during their inpatient and outpatient hospitalizations to promote continuity of care. Katrina received her master’s degree in Child Life from The University of Akron. Katrina joined Nationwide Children's Hospital two years ago and has covered various areas before finding a passion for the colorectal population. Katrina also has a bachelor’s degree in Integrated Strategic Communications from The University of Kentucky.
Katya Harfmann, MD
Dermatology
Katya Harfmann, MD is an attending dermatologist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and assistant professor of Dermatology and Pediatric Dermatology at The Ohio State University. Dr. Harfmann is board certified in dermatology. Her clinical and research interests include hair loss, alopecia areata and quality of life issues. Dr. Harfmann started a Pediatric Hair Disorders Clinic at Nationwide Children’s in Fall 2015. The clinic provides specialized care for children experiencing hair loss and hair growth disorders. Dr. Harfmann is available to see patients suffering from hair loss, hair shaft disorders and excessive hair growth.
Kayla Zimpfer, PCC
Big Lots Behavioral Health Services Community Liaison and Child Abuse Prevention Coordinator
Kaylan Guzman Schauer, LPCC-S
Kaylan is a licensed professional clinical counselor and project coordinator at The Center for Family Safety and Healing.
Keli Young
Radiology
Keli Young is a ultrasonographer lead at Nationwide Children's Hospital.
Kelly Abrams
Foundation, Former Assistant Director of Developmental Communications
Kelly Abrams came to the Foundation at Nationwide Children’s Hospital in October of 2011 and quickly learned the ropes of her position as Assistant Director of Development Communications. Her job duties ranged from managing creative projects, writing and content development, to riding a motorcycle through the Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus Marathon & ½ Marathon to document each mile. Kelly never had a dull moment in the ever-changing world of communications. The most fulfilling aspect of her career is forming a bond with patient families who share their stories in hopes to inspire our community. Outside of the office, Kelly is a social butterfly and is rarely sitting still. She enjoys yoga, weekend adventures with her friends and taking advantage of the rare Ohio sunshine.
Kelly J. Kelleher, MD
Center for Innovation in Pediatric Practice
Dr. Kelleher is a pediatrician whose research interests focus on accessibility, effectiveness and quality of health care services for children and their families, especially those affected by mental disorders, substance abuse or violence. He has a longstanding interest in formal outcomes research for mental health and substance abuse services. Dr. Kelleher is director of the Center for Innovation in Pediatric Practice and vice president of Health Services Research at The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital. Dr. Kelleher is also a professor in the Department of Pediatrics of The Ohio State University College of Medicine.
Kelly McNally, PhD
Neurosciences
Kelly A. McNally, PhD, is a pediatric neuropsychologist at Nationwide Children's Hospital and a clinical assistant professor of pediatrics at The Ohio State University. Her clinical interests include pediatric neuropsychology, epilepsy, rehabilitation psychology, concussion, and oncology. Her research interests include psychological and neuropsychological comorbidities in pediatric epilepsy and post-concussive symptoms in children with mild traumatic brain injury.
Kelly N. Day, CPNP-PC
Urology
Kelly N. Day, CPNP-PC is a member of the Section of Pediatric Urology at Nationwide Children's Hospital. She completed her master's degree in nursing and advance practice at the University of Cincinnati in Cincinnati, Ohio. Her previous experience includes both pediatric nursing with emphasis in kidney, liver, and bowel transplant as well as adult nursing in a medical intensive care setting. She is a full-time pediatric nurse practitioner who sees patients with a variety of urological disorders. She has special interest in care coordination and management before and after birth for fetal patients and their families who have kidney or bladder abnormalities detected during prenatal imaging.
Kelly Wesolowski, PsyD
Big Lots Behavioral Health Services
Kelly Wesolowski, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist who has been with Nationwide Children’s Hospital since 2005. She is currently the clinical lead supervisor for the Westerville Behavioral Health team. Dr. Wesolowski also serves as an associate track director for the clinical child track of the psychology internship program. She is an instructor for ADHD Academy programs and an Incredible Years facilitator. Her clinical interests include assessment and treatment of ADHD, anxiety, and behavior disorders. Dr. Wesolowski spends much of her time providing clinical supervision and training for behavioral health clinicians and psychology trainees.
Kent Williams, MD
Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition
Kent Williams, MD, is an attending pediatric gastroenterologist at Nationwide Children’s and an assistant professor of clinical pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Dr. Williams’ clinical interests involve all aspects of pediatric gastroenterology, with a special interest in GI disorders in children with autism spectrum disorders. As an investigator at the Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s and OSU, he conducts basic and translational research into the mechanisms that cause functional gastrointestinal disorders, such as abdominal pain, constipation, and reflux, in children with autism. In 2012, Dr. Williams became co-chair of the Autism Treatment Network’s gastroenterology committee, a national work group that is responsible for establishing guidelines and recommendations for treatment of GI issues in children with autism spectrum disorders.
Kevin Bosse, PhD
Center for Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Research
Kevin Bosse, PhD, is a postdoctoral scientist in the lab of Vidu Garg in the Center for Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Research. He has a PhD in Molecular, Cellular and Developmental biology. His research focuses on the genetics of heart valve development and disease. He has one son, Benjamin, who keeps him exceptionally busy when he's not at work.
Kevin Klingele, MD
Orthopaedics
Kevin E. Klingele, MD, is the chief of Orthopedic Surgery, program director of the Orthopedics Fellowship, surgical director of Sports Medicine Program and clinical assistant professor of Orthopaedic Surgery at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. He received his medical degree from The Ohio State University. After completing residency at Indiana University he completed a fellowship in Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery at Boston Children's Hospital. Primary clinical interests include adolescent and children's sports medicine, pediatric trauma, hip preservation and reconstruction including periacetabular osteotomy and surgical hip dislocation techniques, and lower extremity reconstruction. He is a Member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, Columbus Orthopaedic Society, Ohio Orthopaedic Society, Central Ohio Pediatric Association, Pediatric Orthopaedic Society of North America, International Perthes Study Group and Gillespie Pediatric Orthopaedic Study Group.
Kim Bjorklund, MD
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Kim A. Bjorklund, MD, is a member of the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Hand Program and Center for Complex and Craniofacial Disorders at Nationwide Children's Hospital and is a clinical assistant professor at The Ohio State University. Dr. Bjorklund also serves as the Director of the Brachial Plexus Program. Dr. Bjorklund received her medical degree and completed residency in Plastic Surgery at the University of Manitoba. Prior to joining Nationwide Children's, she completed Pediatric Plastic Surgery and Pediatric Hand and Upper Extremity fellowships at Cincinnati Children's Hospital, as well as a Hand and Microsurgery fellowship at Southern Illinois University School of Medicine. She is currently completing a Masters of Medical Education through the University of Cincinnati and the Surgical Education Research Fellowship through the Association of Surgical Education. Dr. Bjorklund specializes in pediatric hand and upper extremity surgery, with a focus on neonatal brachial plexus palsy, congenital limb differences and reconstruction following trauma or disease. Additional clinical and research interests are in pediatric microsurgery and surgical education.
Kimberly Bates, MD
HIV Program
Kimberly Bates, MD, is a member of Nationwide Children’s Hospital Section of Primary Care Pediatrics and a clinical assistant professor of pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Dr. Bates provides patient care in the Nationwide Children’s Hospital South High Primary Care Center. In this setting, she is actively involved with teaching internal medicine and pediatric residents. Dr. Bates is also director of the FACES Clinic for children and families with HIV/AIDS.
Kimberly Jones, PharmD
Pharmacy
Kimberly Jones, PharmD is a patient care pharmacist at Nationwide Children's Hospital.
Kimberly Sisto, PT, DPT, SCS
Sports and Orthopedic Physical Therapy
Kimberly Sisto PT, DPT, SCS, is a board-certified sports clinical specialist and a STOTT pilates certified instructor. Kim's areas of clinical interest include the treatment and prevention of injuries in children with gymnastics, cheerleading and performing arts related injuries. Kim is the team physical therapist for Buckeye Gymnastics and has presented on gymnastics-related topics for PT continuing education and at USA Gymnastics Regional and National Congress. Kim is a former club and collegiate gymnast and competitive gymnastics coach. Kim also works at the Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition, where she assists in improving childhood health through participation in physical activity and exercise.
Kimberly Van Camp, PT, DPT, SCS
Sports and Orthopedic Physical Therapy
Kimberly Van Camp PT, DPT, SCS, is a board-certified sports clinical specialist and a STOTT pilates certified instructor. Kim's areas of clinical interest include the treatment and prevention of injuries in children with gymnastics, cheerleading and performing arts related injuries. Kim is the team physical therapist for Buckeye Gymnastics and has presented on gymnastics-related topics for PT continuing education and at USA Gymnastics Regional and National Congress. Kim is a former club and collegiate gymnast and competitive gymnastics coach. Kim also works at the Center for Healthy Weight and Nutrition, where she assists in improving childhood health through participation in physical activity and exercise.
Kirk Sabalka
Sports Medicine
Kirk Sabalka is a certified strength and conditioning specialist, and has worked for Nationwide children’s for nearly two years as part of the sports performance team. He is stationed at Grandview High School as their head strength and conditioning coach. Before coming to Nationwide Children’s Kirk worked for the Spot Athletics in Columbus, Ohio as a sports performance coach, and before that was an intern at Oregon State University.
Kris Jatana, MD, FAAP
Otolaryngology
Kris R. Jatana, MD, FAAP, a native of Columbus, has joined Nationwide Children’s Hospital Department of Pediatric Otolaryngology and is currently an assistant professor in the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at The Ohio State University. He completed residency training at The Ohio State University, and he went on to complete pediatric fellowship training at Children’s Memorial Hospital while serving as a Clinical Instructor at Northwestern University in Chicago, Illinois. He is certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. He serves as a reviewer for several reputed peer-reviewed journals. Dr. Jatana has authored nearly 20 publications, and he has had over 35 presentations at scientific meetings. For over 15 years, he has been involved with basic science and/or translational research including experience at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland. Some of his honors include: Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor Society (Zeta Chapter President), Sony Scholar Award, Tandy Science Scholar Award, McGraw-Hill Medical Scholar Award, Ideal Physician Award, Falor Research Award, three consecutive William H. Saunders Research Awards, American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology Clinical Research Award, two competitive Grand Awards in Medicine and Health at the International Science and Engineering Fair, and he was 1 of 20 recipients in the United States of the 2004 American Medical Association Foundation Leadership Award.
Krista Winner, AuD, CCC-A
Audiology
Krista Winner, AuD, CCC-A, is a clinical audiologist for the Audiology Department at Nationwide Children's Hospital. She completed her master’s degree in audiology at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio in 2004 and her doctorate of audiology through the University of Florida in 2006. She practices full-time at Nationwide Children’s performing diagnostic hearing evaluations, Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) testing, hearing aid evaluations/ fittings, and cochlear implants. Krista joined the Audiology Department in January of 2015.
Kristen Armbrust, LISW-S
Behavioral Health
Kristen Armbrust, LISW-S, is a licensed clinical social worker with experience working with children and families within Behavioral Health. Currently, she is the clinical lead supervisor of the Eating Disorder Program at Nationwide Children’s Hospital where she provides eating disorder treatment and clinical supervision to other clinicians. She also has experience working with adolescents with mood and anxiety disorders and is a clinician on the Dialectical Behavioral Therapy team. Her clinical interests include eating disorders and improving family-centered care.
Kristen Cannon, MD
Psychiatry
Kristen Cannon, MD is a second-year psychiatry resident at The Ohio State University. Dr. Cannon is an Ohio native and attended medical school at Northeast Ohio Medical University.
Kristen Martin, OTR/L
Clinical Therapies
Kristen Martin, OTR/L is a developmental occupational therapist within the Outpatient Occupational and Physical Therapy departments. She earned her Masters degree from The Ohio State University. She previously completed a Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities interdisciplinary traineeship through the Ohio State University Nisonger Center.
Kristi Roberts, MS MPH
Center for Injury Research and Policy
Kristi Roberts, MS MPH, is a research project coordinator in the Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Her research focuses on child safety, home safety, and behavior modification, and she is a certified pediatric sleep consultant. As a mother of two young children, she implements her research into her family’s daily life. When she’s not at work, you can find Kristi finger-painting with her kids, spending time outside, and exploring Columbus with her family.
Kristina Booth, MSN, CFNP
Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction (CCPR)
Kristina M. Booth, FNP, serves as an advance practitioner nurse at the Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction (CCPR) at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. She completed her master’s degree in nursing and advance practice at Otterbein University in Westerville, OH. Kristina joined the Pediatric Urology team in 2008 as the urodynamic nurse specialist. She has lectured both locally and nationally on pediatric urodynamics. In 2014, Kristina joined the CCPR Team. She has a special interest in caring for patients with complex colorectal and urological conditions. Kristina supports the CCPR as a coordinator for the Advance Practice Nursing Team, focusing on specialty services including Gynecology, Urology, Motility and the CCPR-Ohio State transition center. Kristina is an active member of the American Pediatric Surgical Nurses Association and the Pediatric Urology Nurse Specialists, where she serves on the executive board.
Kristina Reber, MD
Neonatology
Kristina M. Reber, MD, is the associate division chief of Neonatology at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and an associate professor of clinical pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. She joined the faculty at Nationwide Children’s in 1997 following an internship, residency and fellowship at the hospital.
Kristol Das, MD
Emergency Medicine
Kristol Das, MD, is currently training as a fellow in Emergency Medicine at Nationwide Children's Hospital. Dr. Das attended medical school at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine
and completed her residency at McGaw/Northwestern/Lurie Children's Hospital.
Kyle Davis
Hematology and Oncology
Kyle is a third year pediatric resident at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. He grew up in Dublin, OH before graduating with a biology degree from The Ohio State University and medical degree from Wright State University. Kyle will continue his medical career as a pediatric hematology/oncology fellow at Nationwide Children’s next July and is particularly interested in pediatric bleeding disorders. His favorite activities include hiking with his fiancée, exploring new Columbus restaurants and traveling across the U.S. and around the world.
Lara McKenzie, PhD, MA
Center for Injury Research and Policy
Lara B. McKenzie, PhD, is a principal investigator in the Center for Injury Research and Policy at the Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital and an associate professor in the Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine and the Division of Epidemiology, College of Public Health at The Ohio State University. She is the mother of triplets (two girls, Parker and Harper, and one boy, Holden). She often jokes that when she leaves Children's, it’s to go to her second, less glamorous job where she doesn't get paid and no one listens to her!
Laura Brubaker, BSN, RN
Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction
Laura Brubaker, BSN, RN, serves as a nurse clinician for the Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction (CCPR) at Nationwide Children's Hospital. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Mount Vernon Nazarene University. Laura joined Nationwide Children's Hospital as a nurse intern on the Gastroenterology, Renal, Endocrinology, Genetics, and Rheumatology floor, where she transitioned to a patient care assistant and later a nurse. She was a travel nurse, gaining experience and new perspectives from various hospitals. She has lectured nationally and internationally at Pediatric Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction Conferences. She is also a member of the American Academy of Ambulatory Care Nursing.
Laura Dattner, MA
Center for Injury Research and Policy
Laura Dattner is a research writer in the Center for Injury Research and Policy of the Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s. With both a health communications and public health background, she works to translate pediatric injury research into meaningful, accurate messages which motivate the public to make positive behavior changes. She has bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Minnesota (go Gophers!) and enjoys spending time outside with her husband and dog.
Laura Martin, MD
Primary Care Pediatrics
Laura T. Martin, MD, is an assistant professor of Pediatrics at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Her clinical interests include general pediatric hematology/oncology, cancer survivorship and palliative care. Her research interests include the role of glycans in solid tumor and lymphocyte biology.
Laurel Biever, LPC
Behavioral Health, Suicide Prevention Specialist
Laurel Biever, LPC, is a suicide prevention specialist for the Center for Suicide Prevention and Research. She is responsible for implementing suicide awareness and prevention programming in the community with a focus on reducing the stigma of mental health issues. Laurel has been a licensed clinician since 1999. She is a proud mom of a beautiful daughter and enjoys cooking, traveling and spending time outdoors.
Lauren Durinka, AuD
Audiology
Lauren Durinka, AuD, is an outpatient pediatric audiologist at Nationwide Children's Hospital. She received a bachelor of arts degree in speech and hearing science with a minor in disability studies from The Ohio State University. Lauren went on to complete her doctorate in audiology at The Ohio State University. Lauren is passionate about providing excellent family-centered care to all patients. Her clinical interests include diagnostic evaluations, electrophysiology, and hearing aids.
Lauren Justice, OTR/L, MOT
Occupational Therapy
Lauren Justice, OTR/L, MOT is a graduate of the masters of occupational therapy program at The Ohio State University. She specialized in pediatrics and pediatric research and has a special interest in family systems and feeding therapy.
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700 Children’s® features the most current pediatric health care information and research from our pediatric experts – physicians and specialists who have seen it all. Many of them are parents and bring a special understanding to what our patients and families experience. If you have a child – or care for a child – 700 Children’s was created especially for you.