Like many other universities foregoing a graduation ceremony this spring, NUHS is honoring Spring 2020 graduates in alternative ways.

A video celebrating their accomplishment features remarks from NUHS President Joseph Stiefel, MS, EdD, DC, along with a presentation of the 51 graduates who have earned diplomas in chiropractic, naturopathic medicine, advanced clinical practice, acupuncture, oriental medicine and biomedical sciences.

 

In his remarks, Dr. Stiefel commended graduates not only for their hard work academically but for social distancing.

“Your sacrifice has helped get this nation back on its feet sooner,” he said.

Valedictorians from each academic program, who typically give speeches during the ceremony, also took a moment to share a few words of gratitude and encouragement for their fellow students below.

“As I reflect on my academic journey, the overwhelming feeling is gratitude. I am incredibly grateful and indebted to so many individuals who were instrumental to the fulfillment of this dream. To my family, friends, classmates and educators, thank you for contributing to my growth as a person and as a Doctor.” Alphecca May T. Octava, Doctor of Chiropractic Valedictorian.

“Life is a journey, make the most of it. Don’t be complacent. Do what you love, do what makes you happy. And remember, things will always work out!” Jessica Lynn Schofield, Doctor of Chiropractic, Florida-site, Salutatorian.

“Always give yourself the opportunity to grow, so that you can continue to help others throughout any circumstance. Wake up to each new day with grace, change your perspective if the situation does not feel right, and forgive yourself for the things you could have done better. Perhaps we can all grow together in the pursuit of happiness.” Jordan Gabriella Ridao, Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine Valedictorian.

“My actual background is in electronics and technology, which is what I did for 30+ years. I never, ever thought about going into a health care career but being here and being part of the health care family is the best experience of my life. I am very grateful to some very special people who gave me the reasons to be here and graduate this program.” Costin Mihail Lixandru, Master of Science in Oriental Medicine Valedictorian.

Reis Morgan,Bachelor of Biomedical Science Valedictorian, shared a quote from American Rapper Robert Fitzgerald Diggs: “It’s been taught that your worst enemy couldn’t harm you as much as your own wicked thoughts.”

“Congrats to my fellow Spring 2020 graduates. Never stop reaching for your dreams. If you free your mind and take the first step, you can fly to the skies and catch the stars.” Hussen Ngo, Master of Science in Acupuncture Valedictorian.

 

Congratulations to Spring 2020 graduates!

Bachelor of Biomedical Science

Isabel Albers

Reis Morgan

Sumin Jun

 

Doctor of Chiropractic

Abbey M Houde

Alphecca May T. Octava

Brooke Peterson

Cameron Forbes Sutherland

Chelsea Moldenhauer

Crystal Corona

Crystal Marie Venturino

Diana Hassan

Edgardo Manuel Pagán

George Kakis

Guadalupe Garcia

Hana Fatima Naveed

Hassan Yono

Henry Kweku Amoesi Appiah

Ioanna Dimova

Jackson T. Henning

Jacob Puskar

Jean Renel Williamceau

Jessica L. Pierce

Jessica Lynn Coleman

Jessica Lynn Schofield

Julia Lynn Kelley

Katherine Jean Emrich

Megan Christine Burgess

Meredith M. Fisher

Michael Joseph Bonassar

Musa Khalid Ayyad

Remington Rodela

Robert Steven Varecha II

Saira Parenteau

Seth Leali

Summer Nichole Vasseur

Syed Raheel Haque

Vanessa Nicole Powers

Zachary Peterson

 

Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine

Amanda MacKenzie Driscoll

Jordan Gabriella Ridao

Megan Jo Eineke

Nectarios G. Duchac

Rebekah Rose Schmackers

Tamara Lambert

Tiffanni Kenya Brown

 

Master of Science in Acupuncture

Hussen Ngo

Rina Mao Sem

 

Master of Science in Advanced Clinical Practice

Dr. Ashia Rallings

John S. Sutanto

 

Master of Science in Oriental Medicine

Costin Mihail Lixandru

Lia Zainelli