Elon Granader, MD, MSc
Associate Professor of Radiology
University of Nebraska Medical Center

Dr. Elon Granader is the section chief of ultrasound at the University of Nebraska Medical Center where he started a contrast enhanced ultrasound program in September 2019. He obtained his medical degree from the University of Michigan and stayed in Ann Arbor for the residency program in diagnostic radiology. Elon finished his medical training with a fellowship at Yale University, which included significant experience in vascular and transplant ultrasound.

Daniel Bourque, MS, ACS, RCS, FASE
Sonographer Educator
Orlando Regional Medical Center

Daniel Bourque is the sonographer educator for Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC), providing both hands-on and didactic training to cardiology and critical care Fellows. Daniel’s duties also include serving as technical director and quality improvement coordinator for the echo lab at ORMC. These responsibilities include bimonthly teleconferences, protocol and training development, and back scanning for complex pathology. Daniel serves as an adjunct instructor at the Gulf Coast School of Ultrasound and has been an invited speaker to national ultrasound society meetings. Daniel’s areas of interest include teaching and training, structural heart assessments, and the utilization of 3D technology. He earned his bachelor’s degree in education and his master’s degree in exercise physiology from Southern Connecticut State University. Daniel completed his echocardiography training at the Hoffman Heart Institute School for Cardiac Ultrasound in Hartford, Connecticut.

Kerry Faulk, BS, RT(S), RDMS, RDCS
Lead Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Atrium Health

Kerry Faulk is a lead diagnostic medical sonographer in the Women's Division of Atrium Health in Charlotte, North Carolina, and a clinical instructor for Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute, where she assists in clinical instruction of OB/GYN sonography students. She earned her bachelor's degree in diagnostic medical sonography at Advent Health University in 2013 and recently received a certificate in healthcare leadership from Duke Corporate Education. Kerry is a volunteer for the Atrium Health PATCH (Propelling Adolescents Towards Careers in Healthcare) Program, which provides students in underserved communities an equal opportunity to learn about and pursue a career in healthcare. The goal is a more diverse healthcare workforce to help reduce disparities in Charlotte area communities. Aside from scanning, she has worked to develop artificial intelligence for prenatal ultrasound and to improve development and processes for Atrium Health Women's Division. Kerry is passionate about obstetrical ultrasound, education, and mentorship.

Joseph Hughes, RVT, RVS, RPhS, NVS
Executive Director, Business Development
NAVIX Diagnostix, Inc.

Joseph “JP” Hughes is currently the executive director of business development and the compliance officer for NAVIX Diagnostix, Inc. He works with physicians and healthcare administrators to improve clinical, operational, and regulatory performance. JP is a registered vascular technologist (since 1990), registered vascular specialist (since 1995), registered phlebology sonographer (since 2019), and a neurovascular specialist (since 2021). JP has been a member of the Society for Vascular Ultrasound (SVU) since 1989 and has served on numerous committees, both within the SVU and as a SVU representative to other professional organizations. Most recently, he served as SVU President from 2016-2019. JP has authored/ co-authored several clinical and scientific papers. He continues to publish articles and lecture nationally on the clinical, operational, and regulatory issues that affect diagnostic testing. He currently resides in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania with his wife, two puppies, and a cat.

Tara Cielma, BS, RT(S), RDMS, RDCS, RVT
Lead Sonographer, Clinical Educator
Children’s National Hospital

Tara Cielma is a lead sonographer and clinical instructor at Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C. She is credentialed by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) in abdomen, OB/GYN, neurosonography, vascular technology, and fetal echo. She also holds a credential from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) in sonography. Tara is passionate about volunteering and contributing to the sonography community. She serves on the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS) Events Management Committee, Nominating Committee, CME Review Team, and is a micro-volunteer. Tara is a manuscript reviewer for the Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, and an item writer for the ARDMS. Tara also serves on the Society for Pediatric Radiology (SPR) Education Committee to advance pediatric sonography. Lastly, Tara has had several chapters and journal articles published on topics including contrast enhanced ultrasound, pediatric abdomen, urinary tract, neurosonography, and renal duplex imaging. In addition, she has a pediatric registry review book to her credit.

Jenna N. Laquerre, RT(R), RDMS(AB, OB/GYN, PS, BR), RVT
Adjunct Instructor of Sonography and Radiography
Palm Beach State College

Jenna Laquerre is a professor of sonography and radiography at Palm Beach State College and a graduate student at the University of North Florida. She is an alumna of Palm Beach State College in radiography and sonography and has a bachelor’s degree in health sciences from Seminole State College. Jenna is a member of Lambda Nu, the national honor society for radiologic and imaging sciences, the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, and the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography. She is a manuscript peer reviewer for the journal Radiologic Technology, a published author and an educational speaker, and she has clinical experience from national institutions including Nemours Children’s Hospital and AdventHealth.

Carrie Vanden Bussche, RDCS, ACS, FASE
Lead Clinical Sonographer
Mayo Clinic

Carrie Vanden Bussche has practiced echocardiography for 25 years, 23 of these years at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. Carrie has worked in both clinical practice and education. She began her education career as Fellow coordinator for Mayo Clinic’s Echocardiography Laboratory in 2001. In 2007, she accepted the position of academic coordinator at Mayo Clinic’s School of Health Sciences Echocardiography Program, where she helped instruct, update, and develop new academic courses. She worked in this role for eight years before becoming the clinical coordinator for Mayo Clinic’s School of Health Sciences Echocardiography Program. She has presented at numerous national conferences.

Jaime Taylor, BS, RDMS, RDCS
Perinatal Sonographer/Fetal Echocardiographer
BB Imaging; CFG Maternal Fetal Medicine

Jaime Taylor has 18 years of experience as a medical sonographer (perinatal and echocardiography), specializing in fetal echocardiography and perinatal ultrasound education. Jaime acknowledges the assistance of many generous (and patient) mentors and colleagues in helping her attain her current level of passion, knowledge, and skill and giving her a deep sense purpose as a clinical caregiver/ ultrasound educator, which drives her need to pay it forward. In the academic setting, Jaime strives to make learning sonography enjoyable for her students. She greatly values opportunities to problem-solve, contribute clinical knowledge, and collaborate to achieve common goals.

Dax Godkin, BS, RDMS, RVT
Lead Research Sonographer
Cleveland Clinic Foundation

Dax Godkin has worked as a vascular ultrasound technologist for 13 years, the last two years in his current position. Dax has been president of the Northern Ohio Vascular Association since 2015. He has presented many times at local and national conferences. In his free time, Dax enjoys kayaking, bike riding, and foreign travel.

Elon Granader, MD, MSc
Associate Professor of Radiology
University of Nebraska Medical Center

Dr. Elon Granader is the section chief of ultrasound at the University of Nebraska Medical Center where he started a contrast enhanced ultrasound program in September 2019. He obtained his medical degree from the University of Michigan and stayed in Ann Arbor for the residency program in diagnostic radiology. Elon finished his medical training with a fellowship at Yale University, which included significant experience in vascular and transplant ultrasound.

Daniel Bourque, MS, ACS, RCS, FASE
Sonographer Educator
Orlando Regional Medical Center

Daniel Bourque is the sonographer educator for Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC), providing both hands-on and didactic training to cardiology and critical care Fellows. Daniel’s duties also include serving as technical director and quality improvement coordinator for the echo lab at ORMC. These responsibilities include bimonthly teleconferences, protocol and training development, and back scanning for complex pathology. Daniel serves as an adjunct instructor at the Gulf Coast School of Ultrasound and has been an invited speaker to national ultrasound society meetings. Daniel’s areas of interest include teaching and training, structural heart assessments, and the utilization of 3D technology. He earned his bachelor’s degree in education and his master’s degree in exercise physiology from Southern Connecticut State University. Daniel completed his echocardiography training at the Hoffman Heart Institute School for Cardiac Ultrasound in Hartford, Connecticut.

Kerry Faulk, BS, RT(S), RDMS, RDCS
Lead Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Atrium Health

Kerry Faulk is a lead diagnostic medical sonographer in the Women's Division of Atrium Health in Charlotte, North Carolina, and a clinical instructor for Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute, where she assists in clinical instruction of OB/GYN sonography students. She earned her bachelor's degree in diagnostic medical sonography at Advent Health University in 2013 and recently received a certificate in healthcare leadership from Duke Corporate Education. Kerry is a volunteer for the Atrium Health PATCH (Propelling Adolescents Towards Careers in Healthcare) Program, which provides students in underserved communities an equal opportunity to learn about and pursue a career in healthcare. The goal is a more diverse healthcare workforce to help reduce disparities in Charlotte area communities. Aside from scanning, she has worked to develop artificial intelligence for prenatal ultrasound and to improve development and processes for Atrium Health Women's Division. Kerry is passionate about obstetrical ultrasound, education, and mentorship.

Joseph Hughes, RVT, RVS, RPhS, NVS
Executive Director, Business Development
NAVIX Diagnostix, Inc.

Joseph “JP” Hughes is currently the executive director of business development and the compliance officer for NAVIX Diagnostix, Inc. He works with physicians and healthcare administrators to improve clinical, operational, and regulatory performance. JP is a registered vascular technologist (since 1990), registered vascular specialist (since 1995), registered phlebology sonographer (since 2019), and a neurovascular specialist (since 2021). JP has been a member of the Society for Vascular Ultrasound (SVU) since 1989 and has served on numerous committees, both within the SVU and as a SVU representative to other professional organizations. Most recently, he served as SVU President from 2016-2019. JP has authored/ co-authored several clinical and scientific papers. He continues to publish articles and lecture nationally on the clinical, operational, and regulatory issues that affect diagnostic testing. He currently resides in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania with his wife, two puppies, and a cat.

Jenna N. Laquerre, RT(R), RDMS(AB, OB/GYN, PS, BR), RVT
Adjunct Instructor of Sonography and Radiography
Palm Beach State College

Jenna Laquerre is a professor of sonography and radiography at Palm Beach State College and a graduate student at the University of North Florida. She is an alumna of Palm Beach State College in radiography and sonography and has a bachelor’s degree in health sciences from Seminole State College. Jenna is a member of Lambda Nu, the national honor society for radiologic and imaging sciences, the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, and the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography. She is a manuscript peer reviewer for the journal Radiologic Technology, a published author and an educational speaker, and she has clinical experience from national institutions including Nemours Children’s Hospital and AdventHealth.

Steven Walling, BS, RCS, ACS, RDCS, FASE
Program Director and Clinical Coordinator for the School of Cardiac Ultrasound
Saint Frances Hospital and Medical Center

Steven Walling is currently the program director and clinical coordinator at the Hoffman Heart and Vascular Institute School of Cardiovascular Technology in Hartford, Connecticut. He graduated from Springfield College with a bachelor’s degree in exercise science in 2001. He currently is a registered advanced cardiac sonographer and also works as an adjunct faculty member with the cardiac ultrasound program at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in Worcester, Massachusetts. He has served committees of the American Society of Echocardiography (ASE), which named him a Fellow in 2013. As a nationally recognized speaker and educator, Steve has lectured at ASE, SDMS, and hospital events throughout the U.S. He has also lectured internationally, most recently working in hospitals in Australia and Spain.

Tatyana O. Beaves, MD, RDCS, RDMS, AB, OBGYN
Program Director and Associate Professor
Grand Valley State University

Tatyana O. Beaves is the director of the diagnostic medical sonography baccalaureate program and a professor at Grand Valley State University (GVSU) in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She earned her medical degree in pediatrics from Rostov-on-Don Medical University in Russia and completed her residency training in diagnostic radiology at Saint Petersburg University, Russian Federation. Tatyana practiced as a lead radiologist in the City Hospital No. 4 at Rostov-on-Don, Russian Federation, and taught medical science and sonography courses for the past 15 years. As a professor at GVSU, she is mentoring students working on undergraduate research and honors courses projects. Several of these projects were presented at the SDMS Annual Conference and earned awards. She is a member of the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology (ISUOG). Her areas of concentration are pediatrics, gynecology, and obstetrics. Tatyana is credentialed by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) in cardiac, abdominal, and OB/GYN specialties.

Dax Godkin, BS, RDMS, RVT
Lead Research Sonographer
Cleveland Clinic Foundation

Dax Godkin has worked as a vascular ultrasound technologist for 13 years, the last two years in his current position. Dax has been president of the Northern Ohio Vascular Association since 2015. He has presented many times at local and national conferences. In his free time, Dax enjoys kayaking, bike riding, and foreign travel.

Jenna N. Laquerre, RT(R), RDMS(AB, OB/GYN,PS, BR), RVT
Adjunct Instructor of Sonography and Radiography
Palm Beach State College

Jenna Laquerre is a professor of sonography and radiography at Palm Beach State College and a graduate student at the University of North Florida. She is an alumna of Palm Beach State College in radiography and sonography and has a bachelor’s degree in health sciences from Seminole State College. Jenna is a member of Lambda Nu, the national honor society for radiologic and imaging sciences, the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, and the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography. She is a manuscript peer reviewer for the journal Radiologic Technology, a published author and an educational speaker, and she has clinical experience from national institutions including Nemours Children’s Hospital and AdventHealth.

Tara Cielma, BS, RT(S), RDMS, RDCS, RVT
Lead Sonographer, Clinical Educator
Children’s National Hospital

Tara Cielma is a lead sonographer and clinical instructor at Children’s National Hospital in Washington, D.C. She is credentialed by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) in abdomen, OB/GYN, neurosonography, vascular technology, and fetal echo. She also holds a credential from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) in sonography. Tara is passionate about volunteering and contributing to the sonography community. She serves on the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS) Events Management Committee, Nominating Committee, CME Review Team, and is a micro-volunteer. Tara is a manuscript reviewer for the Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, and an item writer for the ARDMS. Tara also serves on the Society for Pediatric Radiology (SPR) Education Committee to advance pediatric sonography. Lastly, Tara has had several chapters and journal articles published on topics including contrast enhanced ultrasound, pediatric abdomen, urinary tract, neurosonography, and renal duplex imaging. In addition, she has a pediatric registry review book to her credit.

Richard Palma, BS, ACS, RCCS, RDCS, RCS, FACVP, FSDMS, FASE
Director and Clinical Coordinator
Duke University School of Medicine

Richie Palma has worked in sonography since 1990. A graduate of Northeastern University in exercise physiology, Richie was a lead sonographer for several years before developing a nationally accredited cardiac ultrasound program in 2001 in Hartford, Connecticut. In 2020, he developed a nationally accredited program at the graduate level for the School of Medicine at Duke University. Richie is a national speaker for Philips Healthcare and Lantheus Medical Imaging. He recently has joined ESP Ultrasound to teach ultrasound physics to sonographers preparing for their national registry. An author of many guidelines and book chapters, Richie recently published the Echocardiographer’s Pocket Reference, 5th edition. He currently works as an advanced cardiac sonographer and program director/clinical coordinator of the Duke School of Medicine Cardiac Sonography Certificate Program. He is the only sonographer to receive Fellowship from all three of these organizations: the American Society of Echocardiography (ASE), the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS), and the Alliance of Cardiovascular Professionals (ACVP). Richie has been a dedicated educator for over 20 years and is a recipient of the SDMS Distinguished Educator Award. He is married with three children and resides with his family in Durham, North Carolina.

Nadia Chupka, BS, RDMS, RVT
Staff Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Mayo Clinic

Nadia Chupka is a staff sonographer at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. She earned her bachelor’s degree in neuroscience from Michigan State University. Nadia is registered through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS), holding credentials in vascular, OB/Gyn, and abdominal sonography. Nadia received the 2021 Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS) Emerging Leaders Program grant. She currently enjoys serving on the SDMS Events Management Committee. Nadia has been recognized as Clinical Instructor of the Year and as a Silver Quality Fellow. She is a published author in the Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography.

Miriam Teft, MBA, RDMS, RVT
Assistant Professor and Clinical Coordinator
Grand Valley State University

Miriam Teft has been a registered diagnostic medical sonographer for 19 years, with credentials in abdominal, obstetrics and gynecology, and vascular specialties. She began her career as a general sonographer and cross-trained in breast and vascular specialties before becoming the technical director of a vascular laboratory. From there, she took a full-time position teaching ultrasound for Grand Valley State University's diagnostic medical sonography bachelor's degree program. She has held this position for the last 10 years. She is a passionate educator who is especially interested in vascular sonography. Miriam holds two associate degrees in diagnostic medical sonography, a bachelor’s degree in vascular technology, and a master's degree in business administration.

Kathryn Wampler, MA, RDMS, RVT, RT(R)
Assistant Professor and Clinical Education Coordinator
University of Nebraska Medical Center

Kate Wampler is an assistant professor and clinical education coordinator for the diagnostic medical sonography program at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC). She has been a sonographer for over 20 years and is credentialed in abdomen, OB/GYN, breast, pediatric, and vascular sonography. Kate received a master’s degree in educational administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and her sonography degree from UNMC. Kate currently teaches sonography students in classroom, lab, and clinical settings and is passionate about shaping the next generation of sonographers. She is an active volunteer for the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography as a member of the events management and nominating committees, reviewer for the Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography and CME materials, and micro volunteer.

Steven Walling, BS, RCS, ACS, RDCS, FASE
Program Director and Clinical Coordinator for the School of Cardiac Ultrasound
Saint Frances Hospital and Medical Center

Steven Walling is currently the program director and clinical coordinator at the Hoffman Heart and Vascular Institute School of Cardiovascular Technology in Hartford, Connecticut. He graduated from Springfield College with a bachelor’s degree in exercise science in 2001. He currently is a registered advanced cardiac sonographer and also works as an adjunct faculty member with the cardiac ultrasound program at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in Worcester, Massachusetts. He has served committees of the American Society of Echocardiography (ASE), which named him a Fellow in 2013. As a nationally recognized speaker and educator, Steve has lectured at ASE, SDMS, and hospital events throughout the U.S. He has also lectured internationally, most recently working in hospitals in Australia and Spain.

Tatyana O. Beaves, MD, RDCS, RDMS, AB, OBGYN
Program Director and Associate Professor
Grand Valley State University

Tatyana O. Beaves is the director of the diagnostic medical sonography baccalaureate program and a professor at Grand Valley State University (GVSU) in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She earned her medical degree in pediatrics from Rostov-on-Don Medical University in Russia and completed her residency training in diagnostic radiology at Saint Petersburg University, Russian Federation. Tatyana practiced as a lead radiologist in the City Hospital No. 4 at Rostov-on-Don, Russian Federation, and taught medical science and sonography courses for the past 15 years. As a professor at GVSU, she is mentoring students working on undergraduate research and honors courses projects. Several of these projects were presented at the SDMS Annual Conference and earned awards. She is a member of the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology (ISUOG). Her areas of concentration are pediatrics, gynecology, and obstetrics. Tatyana is credentialed by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) in cardiac, abdominal, and OB/GYN specialties.

Jessica Umbra, BS, RDCS, RVT
DMS Instructor
University of Nebraska Medical Center

Jesse Umbra is an instructor for the diagnostic medical sonography program at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC). Jesse has worked in the healthcare field for 17 years (7 years as a cardiovascular sonographer) and previously taught in the cardiac sonography program at St. Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City. Jesse has a bachelor’s degree in adult cardiac and vascular sonography from Bryan College of Health Sciences. She is currently working on her master’s degree in health professions teaching and technology through UNMC. Jesse currently teaches sonography students in the classroom and lab, as well as physicians in the clinical setting. She is passionate about maintaining high standards for sonographic image acquisition.

Sara Baker, MEd, RDMS, RVT, RMSKS, RT(R), FSDMS
Program Manager, US/NM/PET Accreditation
American College of Radiology

Sara Baker has been a registered diagnostic medical sonographer and registered vascular technologist for over 20 years. Her sonography specialties include abdomen, vascular, obstetrics, gynecology, pediatric/neurosonography, and musculoskeletal. Sara is an active professional volunteer. She has been a site visitor for the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS) from 2012-2021, and she currently is an external reviewer and a virtual site visitor liaison. She also volunteers with the American Registry in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) and the SDMS. She is the chair of the Simulation Task Force for Inteleos/ARDMS, and she has written items for the ARDMS board exams in the areas of pediatric, abdomen, and breast sonography. In addition, she served as an at-large director for the SDMS and the SDMS Foundation from 2015-2017 and served on the Nominating Committee for the SDMS from 2017-2021 and was elected director in 2022. She has also given several webinars for the SDMS. Lastly, Sara has given lectures on a national level for the SDMS, on a local level for the South Central Wisconsin Ultrasound Society and the Wisconsin Society of Radiologic Technologists, and has authored and collaborated with others in publishing research articles and textbook chapters.

Catherine E. Rienzo, EdD, RT(R) (ARRT), RDMS, FSDMS
Retired Program Director

Cathie has spent more than 40 years as a sonographer working in a hospital setting, a private office, and at a teaching institution. She currently serves as the President of the SDMS and the SDMS Foundation. In 2023, she was named the SDMS Board Liaison to the SDMS Foundation Emerging Leaders Program.

For the last fifteen years of her professional career, before her retirement, she was the program director and professor of the DMS program in Pennsylvania. She also serves on the BOD of the JRC-DMS and is the current Vice-President of CAAHEP. She has a passion for educating the next generation of sonographers.

This presentation will include guest ​speaker,
Halle Delos Reyes, BS, RDMS, the 2023 SDMS Foundation Emerging Leader Grant Recipient.

Halle recently graduated from Owens Community College in Perrysburg, Ohio. She is currently working as a sonographer at Bayfront Health in beautiful St. Petersburg, Florida and holds Abdomen and OB/GYN credentials. Halle is passionate about the field of sonography and looks forward to a long and rewarding career. Halle holds a Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology and spent 10 years in Hawaii where she fostered a love for the ocean and freediving. Halle is happiest while traveling, at the beach, or enjoying a delicious meal.

Frank Miele, MSEE
President and Founder
Pegasus Lectures, Inc.

Frank Miele, president of Pegasus Lectures, has authored multiple texts including Essentials of Ultrasound Physics: The Board Review Book and, most recently, Ultrasound Physics & Instrumentation, 6th edition. In addition to holding several patents in ultrasound, he has produced multiple educational eCourses, authored exam simulation programs, and created the patented Analysis Algorithm Method and Apparatus for Evaluating Educational Performance. Frank currently serves as an advisor and trainer for Medical Imaging Ministries of America (MIMA), a non-profit organization bringing medical imaging capabilities to underserved countries and communities, as recognized by the World Health Organization.

Nadia Chupka, BS, RDMS, RVT
Staff Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Mayo Clinic

Nadia Chupka is a staff sonographer at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. She earned her bachelor’s degree in neuroscience from Michigan State University. Nadia is registered through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS), holding credentials in vascular, OB/Gyn, and abdominal sonography. Nadia received the 2021 Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS) Emerging Leaders Program grant. She currently enjoys serving on the SDMS Events Management Committee. Nadia has been recognized as Clinical Instructor of the Year and as a Silver Quality Fellow. She is a published author in the Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography.

Elizabeth McIlwain, MHS, ACS, RCS, FASE
​Clinical Director, Procedural/Outpatient Services
​West Jefferson Medical Center/LCMC Health

​Elizabeth McIlwain is a graduate of Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center (LSUHSC) with a bachelor’s degree in cardiopulmonary science and a master’s of health science degree in health care administration. She is a registered cardiac sonographer (RCS) and an advanced cardiac sonographer (ACS). She has worked in the field of cardiovascular ultrasound since 1985. Elizabeth is actively involved in sonography at the local and national levels. She is a founding member of the local New Orleans echo society (Imaging Society of Louisiana) and volunteers at the national level for the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS), Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI), and the American Society of Echocardiography (ASE), serving in various leadership capacities. She has participated in various research opportunities, has several publications to her credit and is co-author of The Handbook of Echo Doppler Interpretation. Elizabeth's work experience is wide. She has served as a staff sonographer, lead sonographer, researcher, educator, industry consultant, and department director. She is currently employed as the clinical director of procedural/outpatient services at West Jefferson Medical Center in Marrero, Louisiana, providing leadership in cardiology, special procedures, cardiac and pulmonary rehab, endoscopy, hyperbaric/wound care, and dialysis. She is also a clinical faculty member in the cardiovascular ultrasound program at LSUHSC in New Orleans. She is passionate about all things echo and frequently describes herself as an echo nerd.

Miriam Teft, MBA, RDMS, RVT
​Assistant Professor and Clinical Coordinator
​Grand Valley State University

​Miriam Teft has been a registered diagnostic medical sonographer for 19 years, with credentials in abdominal, obstetrics and gynecology, and vascular specialties. She began her career as a general sonographer and cross-trained in breast and vascular specialties before becoming the technical director of a vascular laboratory. From there, she took a full-time position teaching ultrasound for Grand Valley State University's diagnostic medical sonography bachelor's degree program. She has held this position for the last 10 years. She is a passionate educator who is especially interested in vascular sonography. Miriam holds two associate degrees in diagnostic medical sonography, a bachelor’s degree in vascular technology, and a master's degree in business administration.

Tatyana O. Beaves, MD, RDCS, RDMS, AB, OBGYN
Program Director and Associate Professor
Grand Valley State University

Tatyana O. Beaves is the director of the diagnostic medical sonography baccalaureate program and a professor at Grand Valley State University (GVSU) in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She earned her medical degree in pediatrics from Rostov-on-Don Medical University in Russia and completed her residency training in diagnostic radiology at Saint Petersburg University, Russian Federation. Tatyana practiced as a lead radiologist in the City Hospital No. 4 at Rostov-on-Don, Russian Federation, and taught medical science and sonography courses for the past 15 years. As a professor at GVSU, she is mentoring students working on undergraduate research and honors courses projects. Several of these projects were presented at the SDMS Annual Conference and earned awards. She is a member of the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology (ISUOG). Her areas of concentration are pediatrics, gynecology, and obstetrics. Tatyana is credentialed by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) in cardiac, abdominal, and OB/GYN specialties.

Jessica Umbra, BS, RDCS, RVT
DMS Instructor
University of Nebraska Medical Center

Jesse Umbra is an instructor for the diagnostic medical sonography program at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC). Jesse has worked in the healthcare field for 17 years (7 years as a cardiovascular sonographer) and previously taught in the cardiac sonography program at St. Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City. Jesse has a bachelor’s degree in adult cardiac and vascular sonography from Bryan College of Health Sciences. She is currently working on her master’s degree in health professions teaching and technology through UNMC. Jesse currently teaches sonography students in the classroom and lab, as well as physicians in the clinical setting. She is passionate about maintaining high standards for sonographic image acquisition.

Yosefa Pessin, DHSc, MS, RDMS, RDCS, RVT
Associate Professor, Program Chair, and Director
SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University

Yosefa Pessin is a tenured associate professor and the program chair and director of the diagnostic medical imaging program at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University. She has a bachelor’s degree in diagnostic medical imaging from SUNY Downstate, a master’s degree in curriculum development and educational technology from University at Albany, and a doctoral degree in health science from AT Still University. She has been a sonographer for 28 years and holds registry certifications in abdomen, OB/GYN, adult echocardiography, and vascular technology. Yosefa has worked clinically at world renowned hospitals, as well as in outpatient and private practice settings. She brings her clinical experience into the classroom and is a senior member of the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM), as well as a manuscript reviewer for the Journal of Ultrasound in Medicine. A recipient of the SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University Donald Scherl Faculty Excellence Award and School of Health Professions Research awards, her passion for ultrasound education is well-known. As director of a CAAHEP-accredited sonography program, Yosefa is involved in all facets of the program’s curriculum, incorporating current research, clinical skills, and didactic content into the ultrasound program. She is a two-time recipient of the SDMS Kenneth R. Gottesfeld Award and is actively involved in college service committees. Her research areas of interest and publications in the Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography focus on infection control and prevention, educational technology, and simulation. Yosefa also serves as a chaplain for the United States Chaplain Corp.

Monique Riemann, RDMS, RVT
Research Sonographer
Phoenix Children’s Hospital

Monique Riemann is a research sonographer with 35 years of experience in the field. Her registries include abdomen, OB/GYN, vascular, neuro, and pediatric. She worked at Jackson Memorial Medical Center in Miami, Florida before moving to Arizona. After many years in a lead position at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, she transitioned to an ultrasound research position where she has helped to create ultrasound exams that were once radiation-based, utilizing the “Think Ultrasound First” motto. She has received awards from the SDMS in its scientific presentations and poster competitions and has spoken at several different conferences over the last seven years. In 2020, she became a published author with her article on “Sonography of Magnetically Controlled Growing Rods: A Quality Initiative in the Creation of a Multidisciplinary Clinic”. She is passionate about ultrasound and, in addition to her current role, she is also employed part-time as an educator/lab instructor at West Coast Ultrasound Institute, assisting in the development of future sonographers. When not working she can be found spending time with her dog, Rory, enjoying the outdoor life, tackling a creative project, tending to her garden, or spending time with family and friends.

Brad J. Roberts, RCS, RDCS, ACS
Director, Cardiovascular Institute
Baylor Scott & White The Heart Hospitals Cardiovascular Institute

Brad J. Roberts graduated from the University of Oklahoma (OU) in August 1994 with a bachelor’s degree in radiologic technology-ultrasound, cardiac specialty. After performing vascular and cardiac ultrasound exams for a mobile company for a year, Brad received a life-altering phone call from one of his best friends in high school who graduated a year ahead of him in the OU program. Brad learned there was a job open in Durham, North Carolina at Duke University Medical Center and, if he could get there, he would get an interview. He succeeded in landing the job and, over the next five years, he studied and learned under the great mentorship of a cast of cardiac sonographers that included some of the early pillars of echocardiography, such as Drs. Joe Kisslo and Tom Ryan, and renowned echocardiographer David Adams. In 2000, Dr. Paul A. Grayburn convinced Brad to move back to Dallas to work as his chief cardiac sonographer at the Dallas VA/UT Southwestern Medical Center. Three years later, Brad would follow Dr. Grayburn to the Baylor Scott & White (BSW) health system and work for him for the next 18 years as his cardiac research sonographer. In 2003, Dr. Grayburn founded the BSW Research Institute-Cardiac Imaging Core Lab, which Brad managed. The lab continues to flourish under his leadership at The Heart Hospital-Plano today. Throughout his career, and directly due to the support and encouragement of Dr. Grayburn, Brad grew and polished his professional career through many hours of volunteer work for the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS), Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI), and the American Society of Echocardiography (ASE). Brad has been fortunate to serve on many professional committees and to be invited to serve as faculty at national meetings. Some of his most interesting and important roles have come through volunteer work as a member of the ASE Board of Directors and the CCI Board of Trustees. The current phase of his career, with a shift into full-time academics in 2020, is also directly attributed to Dr. Grayburn. Dr. Grayburn was instrumental in founding BSW The Heart Hospitals Cardiovascular Institute, where Brad now works as the first school director and program director for the adult echocardiography program. With the staunch support of co-founder and The Heart Hospital-Plano President Mark A. Valentine, Brad says they have successfully launched three CAAHEP-accredited programs in adult echocardiography, cardiovascular perfusion, and invasive cardiovascular technology. Enrollment stands at 26 students across the three programs, and the school continues to grow.

John Trombly, MS, RDMS, RDCS, RVT
Perinatal Sonographer
Kaiser Permanente Colorado

In his 35 years in sonography, John has worked in a variety of settings from large teaching hospitals to small rural clinics. He began his career in the U.S. Air Force (USAF) and established the USAF sonography training program in the late 1980s. After the military, John entered the private sector in Texas, where he founded Advanced Imaging Services, a mobile ultrasound company that has grown into one of the largest providers of mobile imaging in the state. In 2005, he moved to Colorado and established the sonography program at Red Rocks Community College in Arvada. After nine years in education, John reentered clinical practice at Kaiser Permanente in 2014 and now works as a perinatal sonographer in the Maternal Fetal Medicine Department. He has authored several papers and book chapters and has lectured extensively around the country throughout his career. He is a senior member of the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine and is a member of the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, the Society of Maternal Fetal Medicine, and the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology. John also serves as a reviewer for the Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography. He lives in Denver with his amazing wife Nancy (also a sonographer) and their two fur babies.

Sharlette Anderson, MHS, RDMS, RDCS, RVT, FSDMS
Content Specialist
Touch of Life Technologies

Sharlette Anderson, a sonographer for 34 years, completed her bachelor’s degree in radiologic technology-sonography at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma and her master of health science degree in diagnostic medical ultrasound at the University of Missouri-Columbia (MU), where she served as an associate clinical professor/clinical coordinator for 15 years. Sharlette is now a content specialist for Touch of Life Technologies (Toltech), where she builds case-based instructional modules focused on sonography/imaging. She has been a sonography educator for 20 years and has practiced clinically her entire career. She has co-authored several case studies and research articles and, most recently, authored a textbook chapter. Sharlette has made it a priority to mentor her students in research and writing, and she was a pioneer in this endeavor at MU. Sharlette is a longtime SDMS volunteer and has served on multiple committees. She has authored webinars and clinical refreshers, conducted podcast interviews, and is a member of the Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JDMS) editorial board. In 2022, she received SDMS Fellow status and was elected to serve on the SDMS and SDMS Foundation Board of Directors. Sharlette is also a longtime volunteer with the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS), serving on the Abdominal Specialty Exam Development Committee, writing items, mentoring new item writers, and serving as a subject matter expert for the ARDMS Skills App. In addition to her teaching, clinical, and professional service, Sharlette works with the Missouri Alliance for Life.

Frank Miele, MSEE
President and Founder
Pegasus Lectures, Inc.

Frank Miele, president of Pegasus Lectures, has authored multiple texts including Essentials of Ultrasound Physics: The Board Review Book and, most recently, Ultrasound Physics & Instrumentation, 6th edition. In addition to holding several patents in ultrasound, he has produced multiple educational eCourses, authored exam simulation programs, and created the patented Analysis Algorithm Method and Apparatus for Evaluating Educational Performance. Frank currently serves as an advisor and trainer for Medical Imaging Ministries of America (MIMA), a non-profit organization bringing medical imaging capabilities to underserved countries and communities, as recognized by the World Health Organization.

Elizabeth Brennan, BS, RDMS
Ultrasonographer
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia

Elizabeth Brennan has a bachelor’s degree in radiologic sciences from Thomas Jefferson University. She is the chief sonographer for the Center for Pediatric Contrast Ultrasound (CPCU) at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Elizabeth began her career working in adult sonography at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. In 2018, she came to Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia to focus on pediatric sonography. She is registered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) in abdominal and pediatric sonography. Elizabeth is involved in education and enjoys teaching students and physicians the techniques necessary to succeed in ultrasound. She is the lead sonographer for hands-on ultrasound training of rotating residents and Fellows. In February 2023, Elizabeth traveled to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia with members of the CPCU team to teach pediatric contrast at the 13th Annual Radiological Society Conference.

Jessica Stout, BS, RDCS, ACS, FASE
Technical Director, Echo Lab
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center

Jess graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biomedical science and chemistry from Quinnipiac University in Hamden, Connecticut in 2007. She later transitioned into echo and worked at a Boston area community health system for almost 10 years, leaving as director of cardiovascular services. She is now the technical director/clinical manager of the echo lab at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston. She has a passion for teaching and is an adjunct professor at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, as well as the educational coordinator for the New England Society of Echocardiography. As an advocate for the use of ultrasound enhancing agents, she speaks nationally on the topic and serves on the board of directors for the ICUS.

Molly Siemens, RDMS, RVT, RT
Staff Sonographer
BB Imaging

A graduate of Fort Hays State University in Hays, Kansas, Molly has been a sonographer for 17 years. She has worked in a variety of low- and high-risk obstetrical settings and says she has had the pleasure of working alongside some of the best sonographers and physicians in healthcare. When Molly is not picking up a transducer or volunteering for the SDMS, you can find her reading, watching Star Wars movies with her family, or cooking.

Richard Dubin, AAS-DMS, RVT, RDMS
​Senior Clinical Manager
​NAVIX Diagnostix

Rick Dubin is enjoying his 28th year in sonography. He is registered with the American Registry in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) in abdomen/small parts, OB/GYN, and vascular sonography. He has spent most of his career in ultrasound as a vascular sonography consultant in the private sector. Rick has provided operational and clinical direction, training, and education at major medical centers and physician practices in the Greater New York City area. This includes associations with Mount Sinai Hospital, Montefiore Medical Center, New York Presbyterian and, currently, Columbia University Medical Center. Rick was also the director of vascular and cardiac sonography programs for Long Island University in Brooklyn, New York. He has performed research and development and clinical trials for several ultrasound manufacturers and is a contributing author for the Journal of Vascular Sonography and Ultrasound Today on various topics. He has taught physicians and Fellows in a Registered Physician in Vascular Interpretation Exam review course. Rick is currently the senior clinical manager for the New York regional office of NAVIX Diagnostix, a position he has held since 2005.

Yosefa Pessin, DHSc, MS, RDMS, RDCS, RVT
Associate Professor, Program Chair, and Director
SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University

Yosefa Pessin is a tenured associate professor and the program chair and director of the diagnostic medical imaging program at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University. She has a bachelor’s degree in diagnostic medical imaging from SUNY Downstate, a master’s degree in curriculum development and educational technology from University at Albany, and a doctoral degree in health science from AT Still University. She has been a sonographer for 28 years and holds registry certifications in abdomen, OB/GYN, adult echocardiography, and vascular technology. Yosefa has worked clinically at world renowned hospitals, as well as in outpatient and private practice settings. She brings her clinical experience into the classroom and is a senior member of the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM), as well as a manuscript reviewer for the Journal of Ultrasound in Medicine. A recipient of the SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University Donald Scherl Faculty Excellence Award and School of Health Professions Research awards, her passion for ultrasound education is well-known. As director of a CAAHEP-accredited sonography program, Yosefa is involved in all facets of the program’s curriculum, incorporating current research, clinical skills, and didactic content into the ultrasound program. She is a two-time recipient of the SDMS Kenneth R. Gottesfeld Award and is actively involved in college service committees. Her research areas of interest and publications in the Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography focus on infection control and prevention, educational technology, and simulation. Yosefa also serves as a chaplain for the United States Chaplain Corp.

Monique Riemann, RDMS, RVT
Research Sonographer
Phoenix Children’s Hospital

Monique Riemann is a research sonographer with 35 years of experience in the field. Her registries include abdomen, OB/GYN, vascular, neuro, and pediatric. She worked at Jackson Memorial Medical Center in Miami, Florida before moving to Arizona. After many years in a lead position at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, she transitioned to an ultrasound research position where she has helped to create ultrasound exams that were once radiation-based, utilizing the “Think Ultrasound First” motto. She has received awards from the SDMS in its scientific presentations and poster competitions and has spoken at several different conferences over the last seven years. In 2020, she became a published author with her article on “Sonography of Magnetically Controlled Growing Rods: A Quality Initiative in the Creation of a Multidisciplinary Clinic”. She is passionate about ultrasound and, in addition to her current role, she is also employed part-time as an educator/lab instructor at West Coast Ultrasound Institute, assisting in the development of future sonographers. When not working she can be found spending time with her dog, Rory, enjoying the outdoor life, tackling a creative project, tending to her garden, or spending time with family and friends.

Brad J. Roberts, RCS, RDCS, ACS
Director, Cardiovascular Institute
Baylor Scott & White The Heart Hospitals Cardiovascular Institute

Brad J. Roberts graduated from the University of Oklahoma (OU) in August 1994 with a bachelor’s degree in radiologic technology-ultrasound, cardiac specialty. After performing vascular and cardiac ultrasound exams for a mobile company for a year, Brad received a life-altering phone call from one of his best friends in high school who graduated a year ahead of him in the OU program. Brad learned there was a job open in Durham, North Carolina at Duke University Medical Center and, if he could get there, he would get an interview. He succeeded in landing the job and, over the next five years, he studied and learned under the great mentorship of a cast of cardiac sonographers that included some of the early pillars of echocardiography, such as Drs. Joe Kisslo and Tom Ryan, and renowned echocardiographer David Adams. In 2000, Dr. Paul A. Grayburn convinced Brad to move back to Dallas to work as his chief cardiac sonographer at the Dallas VA/UT Southwestern Medical Center. Three years later, Brad would follow Dr. Grayburn to the Baylor Scott & White (BSW) health system and work for him for the next 18 years as his cardiac research sonographer. In 2003, Dr. Grayburn founded the BSW Research Institute-Cardiac Imaging Core Lab, which Brad managed. The lab continues to flourish under his leadership at The Heart Hospital-Plano today. Throughout his career, and directly due to the support and encouragement of Dr. Grayburn, Brad grew and polished his professional career through many hours of volunteer work for the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS), Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI), and the American Society of Echocardiography (ASE). Brad has been fortunate to serve on many professional committees and to be invited to serve as faculty at national meetings. Some of his most interesting and important roles have come through volunteer work as a member of the ASE Board of Directors and the CCI Board of Trustees. The current phase of his career, with a shift into full-time academics in 2020, is also directly attributed to Dr. Grayburn. Dr. Grayburn was instrumental in founding BSW The Heart Hospitals Cardiovascular Institute, where Brad now works as the first school director and program director for the adult echocardiography program. With the staunch support of co-founder and The Heart Hospital-Plano President Mark A. Valentine, Brad says they have successfully launched three CAAHEP-accredited programs in adult echocardiography, cardiovascular perfusion, and invasive cardiovascular technology. Enrollment stands at 26 students across the three programs, and the school continues to grow.

John Trombly, MS, RDMS, RDCS, RVT
Perinatal Sonographer
Kaiser Permanente Colorado

In his 35 years in sonography, John has worked in a variety of settings from large teaching hospitals to small rural clinics. He began his career in the U.S. Air Force (USAF) and established the USAF sonography training program in the late 1980s. After the military, John entered the private sector in Texas, where he founded Advanced Imaging Services, a mobile ultrasound company that has grown into one of the largest providers of mobile imaging in the state. In 2005, he moved to Colorado and established the sonography program at Red Rocks Community College in Arvada. After nine years in education, John reentered clinical practice at Kaiser Permanente in 2014 and now works as a perinatal sonographer in the Maternal Fetal Medicine Department. He has authored several papers and book chapters and has lectured extensively around the country throughout his career. He is a senior member of the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine and is a member of the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography, the Society of Maternal Fetal Medicine, and the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology. John also serves as a reviewer for the Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography. He lives in Denver with his amazing wife Nancy (also a sonographer) and their two fur babies.

Jacquelyn R. Butler, BS, RDMS, RVT
Technical Director
Ohio State

Jacquelyn R. Butler is the owner of Sonology Solutions, an independent ultrasound studio, and the current technical director of the vascular lab at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. She has been a diagnostic medical sonographer for more than 20 years. She previously worked for Ohio Health’s Grant Medical Center as a senior vascular technologist from 2004-2018. Her experience includes working as a traveling sonographer where she had the opportunity to work in a variety of medical settings. She helped set up the vascular lab at Lewisville Medical Center in Lewisville, Texas, under the guidance of Dr. Timothy Pringle. She was an adjunct professor of vascular technology at Sanford Brown Technical College. She is a member of the Society for Vascular Ultrasound (SVU) and serves as a member and volunteer for the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS). Fun fact about Jacque, she is a former figure bodybuilder and won 1st place at the Akron Natural Summer Classic Bodybuilding competition.

Maria Stanczak, MS, RDMS, RVT, RT(R)(M)
Assistant Professor
Thomas Jefferson University

Maria Stanczak was born in Philadelphia, PA. She is a two-time alumnus of Thomas Jefferson University and a seasoned sonographer with CEUS clinical and research experience. Her interests include advanced technologies in sonography, such as elastography, 3D applications, and ultrasound contrast agents. Her professional goals are to raise awareness about the benefits of ultrasound enhancing agents and encourage CEUS curricular integration and training. Maria is currently an assistant professor at Thomas Jefferson University in the Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences. She also holds positions in the International Contrast Ultrasound Society and on the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography Board of Directors.

Matthew Ryan, MS, RDMS, RVT, RT(R)
Advocate Aurora Health Care

Now entering his 30th year in allied healthcare, Matthew Ryan spent his first three years as a radiology technologist and the last 25 years or more as a sonographer. He has worked at large academic institutions, urban and rural hospitals, and multi-specialty clinics. Sixteen years ago, he moved from being an onsite clinical instructor to a full-time teaching position and has taught on a wide variety of topics, including gynecology, small parts, interventional procedures, and currently the vascular concentration. In addition to teaching, he also manages all aspects of student clinical training, for which he developed, designed, and implemented a scan lab component. He also has developed and implemented training courses for nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and first-year radiology residents. Outside of his primary job, Matthew has developed and presented lectures to various professional organizations, both locally and nationally. On a semi-annual basis, he co-directs a vascular seminar course. In his free time, he is an umpire for baseball leagues for ages 11-16 and enjoys relaxing with his wife and two daughters in southeast Wisconsin.

Jaclyn Meadow, RCS
Cardiac Sonographer
Orlando Health

Jaclyn Meadow is a full-time cardiac sonographer at Orlando Regional Medical Center. She is an experienced sonographer who assists the lead in education, training, and managing department workflow. Jaclyn’s current focus is on streamlining the structural heart assessment, from preoperative quantification and intraoperative guidance to the postoperative evaluation. Jaclyn’s education and training include work toward a bachelor’s degree in health science at Southern New Hampshire University, echocardiography training at Sanford Brown Technical Institute in Tampa, Florida, and clinical training at Memorial Hospital, also in Tampa. Jaclyn aspires to expand her knowledge base and network with others who share her passion for cardiology.

Molly Siemens, RDMS, RVT, RT
Staff Sonographer
BB Imaging

A graduate of Fort Hays State University in Hays, Kansas, Molly has been a sonographer for 17 years. She has worked in a variety of low- and high-risk obstetrical settings and says she has had the pleasure of working alongside some of the best sonographers and physicians in healthcare. When Molly is not picking up a transducer or volunteering for the SDMS, you can find her reading, watching Star Wars movies with her family, or cooking.

Richard Dubin, AAS-DMS, RVT, RDMS
​Senior Clinical Manager
​NAVIX Diagnostix

Rick Dubin is enjoying his 28th year in sonography. He is registered with the American Registry in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) in abdomen/small parts, OB/GYN, and vascular sonography. He has spent most of his career in ultrasound as a vascular sonography consultant in the private sector. Rick has provided operational and clinical direction, training, and education at major medical centers and physician practices in the Greater New York City area. This includes associations with Mount Sinai Hospital, Montefiore Medical Center, New York Presbyterian and, currently, Columbia University Medical Center. Rick was also the director of vascular and cardiac sonography programs for Long Island University in Brooklyn, New York. He has performed research and development and clinical trials for several ultrasound manufacturers and is a contributing author for the Journal of Vascular Sonography and Ultrasound Today on various topics. He has taught physicians and Fellows in a Registered Physician in Vascular Interpretation Exam review course. Rick is currently the senior clinical manager for the New York regional office of NAVIX Diagnostix, a position he has held since 2005.

Tanya Nolan, EdD, RT(R)(ARRT), RDMS
​Professor
​Weber State University

​Tanya Nolan has more than 15 years of experience in sonography. She is the director of the master’s degree programs in radiologic sciences and diagnostic medical sonography at Weber State University. Tanya has served as the chair of the Events Management Committee for the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS) and the president of the Association of Collegiate Educators in Radiologic Technology. She is a member of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists Editorial Review Board and an advocacy representative for U.S. Radiologic Technologists. Tanya has authored several book chapters and is the co-editor of the 5th edition of Diagnostic Medical Sonography: Abdomen and Superficial Structures with Diane Kawamura, PhD, RDMS, RT(R), FSDMS, FAIUM.

Debra Crandell, EdD, RDMS
​Assistant Professor
​MCPHS University

​Debra Crandell is an assistant professor in the School of Medical Imaging and Therapeutics at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. Debra has been an educator since 2005 and earned her doctorate in higher education from Concordia University. She is a longtime volunteer with the SDMS. Debra serves as a manuscript reviewer for the Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography. She is a frequent national conference speaker on topics such as critical thinking, reasoning, and clinical education.

Maria Stanczak, MS, RDMS, RVT, RT(R)(M)
​Assistant Professor
​Thomas Jefferson University

​Maria Stanczak was born in Philadelphia, PA. She is a two-time alumnus of Thomas Jefferson University and a seasoned sonographer with CEUS clinical and research experience. Her interests include advanced technologies in sonography, such as elastography, 3D applications, and ultrasound contrast agents. Her professional goals are to raise awareness about the benefits of ultrasound enhancing agents and encourage CEUS curricular integration and training. Maria is currently an assistant professor at Thomas Jefferson University in the Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences. She also holds positions in the International Contrast Ultrasound Society and on the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography Board of Directors.

Ryan Downey, MD
Assistant Professor
University of Nebraska Medical Center

Dr. Ryan Downey is an assistant professor of radiology at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC). He obtained his medical degree from the University of Colorado School of Medicine and completed his residency in diagnostic radiology at the University of Michigan. He went on to do Fellowships in abdominal imaging at the University of California San Francisco and nuclear medicine at Duke University. He is currently the director of the Tumor Imaging Metrics Lab.

Jaclyn Meadow, RCS
​Cardiac Sonographer
​Orlando Health

​Jaclyn Meadow is a full-time cardiac sonographer at Orlando Regional Medical Center. She is an experienced sonographer who assists the lead in education, training, and managing department workflow. Jaclyn’s current focus is on streamlining the structural heart assessment, from preoperative quantification and intraoperative guidance to the postoperative evaluation. Jaclyn’s education and training include work toward a bachelor’s degree in health science at Southern New Hampshire University, echocardiography training at Sanford Brown Technical Institute in Tampa, Florida, and clinical training at Memorial Hospital, also in Tampa. Jaclyn aspires to expand her knowledge base and network with others who share her passion for cardiology.

Mitzi Roberts, EdD, RT(R), RDMS, RDCS, FSDMS
​Director
​Baptist Health Sciences University

​Mitzi Roberts has a doctorate in education from Union University, as well as undergraduate degrees and certificates from the University of Memphis, Southern Illinois University, and Baptist Health Sciences University. She has been active in the sonography and education fields for over 25 years, serving as a clinical sonographer, clinical instructor, associate professor, program director, director, and associate dean. She has been recognized for her contributions in education as the recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award, Presidential Award, Servant’s Heart Award, and Distinguished Faculty Award. Mitzi is a volunteer with the SDMS, the Joint Review Committee on Education in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JRC-DMS) and the American Registry in Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). She has authored several sonography textbook chapters and has published in the Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (JDMS). Mitzi has received the Kenneth R. Gottesfeld Award, established by the JDMS to recognize the publication of outstanding research or review articles in the journal. She has also received the SDMS Distinguished Educator Award and SDMS Fellow recognition. Mitzi has served as the president-elect for the SDMS and the SDMS Foundation leading up to the 2023 SDMS Annual Conference.

Jacquelyn R. Butler, BS, RDMS, RVT
Technical Director
Ohio State

Jacquelyn R. Butler is the owner of Sonology Solutions, an independent ultrasound studio, and the current technical director of the vascular lab at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. She has been a diagnostic medical sonographer for more than 20 years. She previously worked for Ohio Health’s Grant Medical Center as a senior vascular technologist from 2004-2018. Her experience includes working as a traveling sonographer where she had the opportunity to work in a variety of medical settings. She helped set up the vascular lab at Lewisville Medical Center in Lewisville, Texas, under the guidance of Dr. Timothy Pringle. She was an adjunct professor of vascular technology at Sanford Brown Technical College. She is a member of the Society for Vascular Ultrasound (SVU) and serves as a member and volunteer for the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS). Fun fact about Jacque, she is a former figure bodybuilder and won 1st place at the Akron Natural Summer Classic Bodybuilding competition.

Patricia Lacy Gandor, MS, RDMS, RVT
​Assistant Professor
​Harper College

​Patricia Lacy Gandor is the concentration and clinical coordinator of sonography and assistant professor at Harper College. She graduated from Southern Illinois University with a bachelor’s degree in allied health/sonography and earned a master’s degree in health profession education from Rutgers University. Lacy is well-versed in multiple areas of ultrasound, with a particular interest in pediatric imaging. She has over 20 years of clinical and educational experience, and she is passionate about sonography and collaborating with others on global health, research, and education.

Scott Kirby, AS, RDCS, CVT, FASE
​Cardiac Sonographer
​Children’s Hospital Colorado

​Scott Kirby began his career as a cardiac sonographer in 1985 after graduating from Grossmont College in San Diego, California with a degree in cardiovascular technology. He has been a registered diagnostic cardiac sonographer since 1987 and is also recognized as a Fellow of the American Society of Echocardiography. He spent the first 10 years working in adult cardiology, which included a brief stint as a clinical product specialist, where he enjoyed working with in-house engineers on product development and teaching various aspects of echocardiography to team members. In 1995, Scott made the move to pediatric echocardiography and to Denver, Colorado, where he remains as a pediatric cardiac sonographer at Children’s Hospital Colorado. He has functioned in various roles during his 28 years at Children’s Colorado, including lead sonographer, lead research sonographer, supervisor, and technical director. Working at an academic institution has given him many opportunities, such as program building, contributing to research publications, collaborating with industry, and speaking to audiences on a local and national level.

Dawn Park, BS, RDCS, RDMS, FASE
Pediatric and Fetal Cardiac Sonographer
​​Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital

Dawn Park began her career in Michigan as a cardiac sonographer in 2000 after graduating from the College of West Virginia. While scanning adult patients, she was very fortunate to be offered an opportunity to learn pediatric echo. She quickly realized her love for the field of congenital heart disease. In 2009, she landed at Children’s Hospital Colorado, where she was again very fortunate to be offered an opportunity to learn fetal echocardiography, and she jumped at the chance. Dawn was a member of the team at the Colorado Fetal Care Center for 13 amazing years. Last fall, she traded the mountains in Colorado for the beaches in St. Petersburg, Florida by joining Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. She continues her career in pediatric and fetal cardiac sonography. Dawn is also an active member and volunteers her time with the American Society of Echocardiography and the Society of Pediatric Echocardiography.

Ted Whitten, BA, RDMS, RVT, FSDMS
Ultrasound Practitioner
Elliot Hospital

With 30+ years in sonography, Ted Whitten, BA, RDMS, RVT, FSDMS, director and past president of the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS) and SDMS Foundation (2019-2021), continually fosters a dedication to helping others and to learning, which has helped him work in an advanced capacity at Elliot Hospital in Manchester, New Hampshire since 2007. Ted has elevated and standardized the quality of sonographic procedures for the Elliot Health system, served as a vital conduit between sonographers and physicians, travelled the U.S. on behalf of Elliot Hospital to teach sonography departments, and initiated a musculoskeletal sonography program at Elliot Hospital. At a prior employer, he established a non-invasive vascular lab that won accreditation by the Intersocietal Commission on Accreditation of Vascular Laboratories (ICAVL). Ted keeps his passion high through clinical connections with sonography students.

Ryan Downey, MD
Assistant Professor
University of Nebraska Medical Center

Dr. Ryan Downey is an assistant professor of radiology at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC). He obtained his medical degree from the University of Colorado School of Medicine and completed his residency in diagnostic radiology at the University of Michigan. He went on to do Fellowships in abdominal imaging at the University of California San Francisco and nuclear medicine at Duke University. He is currently the director of the Tumor Imaging Metrics Lab.

Neha Soni-Patel, MEd, BS, RDCS, RCCS, FASE
​Education Work Leader
​Cleveland Clinic Children’s

​Neha Soni-Patel is the education work leader at Cleveland Clinic Children's. She has been a pediatric cardiac sonographer since 2011 and recently earned her master’s degree in health professions education from Cleveland State University. Neha has lectured for the SDMS and for American Society of Echocardiography scientific sessions for the past six years. Neha volunteers with echo organizations and humanitarian missions. She traveled to Rwanda in 2022 and the Whiteriver Apache Reservation in February 2023 to perform screening echoes and train local physicians. She was recently involved with the writing groups at ASE that published point of care ultrasound guidelines for pediatric sonography and updated pediatric echo guidelines. Neha is a new empty nester who is looking forward to contributing more to the echo community now that she has more time. Neha always welcomes sonographers coming up to her to say hi and ask questions. She loves to teach and is always interested in helping the next generation of sonographers become the new leaders.

Blanca Lesmes, MBA
​CEO
​BB Imaging

​Blanca Lesmes is the cofounder and CEO of BB Imaging. She has spent the last two decades working to end preventable maternal mortality through increased access to high-quality ultrasound services. She has grown BB Imaging into the largest independently owned provider of high-risk obstetrical sonography in the nation. Blanca is the creator of TeleScan^®, a telesonography^® SaaS solution that connects underserved locations with expert sonographers. She is a passionate promoter of women in technology and entrepreneurship.

Ashley Upton, BS, RDMS, RVT, RVS
​Advanced Pediatric Sonographer
​Texas Children’s Hospital

​Ashley Upton is a registered vascular, abdominal, OB/GYN, and pediatric sonographer with 13 years of experience in combined adult and pediatric ultrasound. She currently lives in Houston, Texas, where she works at Texas Children’s Hospital as one of the lead sonographers. Her love of ultrasound encompasses both vascular and pediatrics, and she is grateful to work at a facility that cares for the patients of the most complex cases. Over the years, she has found a special interest in both native liver and liver transplant ultrasounds. Specifically, her interest is in biliary atresia, portal hypertension, vascular complications in liver transplants, and interventions related to these complications. She works closely with her interventional radiology department to help provide the highest level of care for these patients. Ashley is also heavily involved with research projects at her institution. In 2018, she graduated with her bachelor’s degree in diagnostic imaging, specializing in education. In her spare time, she is an active item writer for the Registered Vascular Specialist (RVS) exam for Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI). One of her biggest loves is volunteering in underserved countries. She has traveled to Haiti four times and Nepal once to teach and perform ultrasounds. Nothing is more rewarding to her than seeing firsthand how ultrasound is saving lives globally.

Patricia Lacy Gandor, MS, RDMS, RVT
​Assistant Professor
​Harper College

​Patricia Lacy Gandor is the concentration and clinical coordinator of sonography and assistant professor at Harper College. She graduated from Southern Illinois University with a bachelor’s degree in allied health/sonography and earned a master’s degree in health profession education from Rutgers University. Lacy is well-versed in multiple areas of ultrasound, with a particular interest in pediatric imaging. She has over 20 years of clinical and educational experience, and she is passionate about sonography and collaborating with others on global health, research, and education.

Scott Kirby, AS, RDCS, CVT, FASE
​Cardiac Sonographer
​Children’s Hospital Colorado

​Scott Kirby began his career as a cardiac sonographer in 1985 after graduating from Grossmont College in San Diego, California with a degree in cardiovascular technology. He has been a registered diagnostic cardiac sonographer since 1987 and is also recognized as a Fellow of the American Society of Echocardiography. He spent the first 10 years working in adult cardiology, which included a brief stint as a clinical product specialist, where he enjoyed working with in-house engineers on product development and teaching various aspects of echocardiography to team members. In 1995, Scott made the move to pediatric echocardiography and to Denver, Colorado, where he remains as a pediatric cardiac sonographer at Children’s Hospital Colorado. He has functioned in various roles during his 28 years at Children’s Colorado, including lead sonographer, lead research sonographer, supervisor, and technical director. Working at an academic institution has given him many opportunities, such as program building, contributing to research publications, collaborating with industry, and speaking to audiences on a local and national level.

Dawn Park, BS, RDCS, RDMS, FASE
Pediatric and Fetal Cardiac Sonographer
​​Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital

Dawn Park began her career in Michigan as a cardiac sonographer in 2000 after graduating from the College of West Virginia. While scanning adult patients, she was very fortunate to be offered an opportunity to learn pediatric echo. She quickly realized her love for the field of congenital heart disease. In 2009, she landed at Children’s Hospital Colorado, where she was again very fortunate to be offered an opportunity to learn fetal echocardiography, and she jumped at the chance. Dawn was a member of the team at the Colorado Fetal Care Center for 13 amazing years. Last fall, she traded the mountains in Colorado for the beaches in St. Petersburg, Florida by joining Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. She continues her career in pediatric and fetal cardiac sonography. Dawn is also an active member and volunteers her time with the American Society of Echocardiography and the Society of Pediatric Echocardiography.

Aubrey Rybyinski, BS, RDMS, RVT, FSDMS
Senior Clinical Manager
​​Navix Diagnostix

​​Aubrey Rybyinski, BS, RDMS, RVT, FSDMS, secretary of the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS) and SDMS Foundation, is senior clinical manager at Navix Diagnostix in Taunton, Massachusetts and works out of the department of Vascular Surgery at Cooper University Hospital. He performs vascular ultrasound examinations, provides pre- and post-operative assessments, serves as a technical expert in supervising, evaluating, instructing, counseling, and training staff, and participates in continuous quality improvement affecting over 100 vascular technologists serving over 100 clients in academic and community hospitals, surgical centers, access centers, and private practice offices. Aubrey has been prolific in his contributions as a national speaker and author of textbook chapters since entering the sonography profession in 2007.

Ashley Upton, BS, RDMS, RVT, RVS
​Advanced Pediatric Sonographer
​Texas Children’s Hospital

​Ashley Upton is a registered vascular, abdominal, OB/GYN, and pediatric sonographer with 13 years of experience in combined adult and pediatric ultrasound. She currently lives in Houston, Texas, where she works at Texas Children’s Hospital as one of the lead sonographers. Her love of ultrasound encompasses both vascular and pediatrics, and she is grateful to work at a facility that cares for the patients of the most complex cases. Over the years, she has found a special interest in both native liver and liver transplant ultrasounds. Specifically, her interest is in biliary atresia, portal hypertension, vascular complications in liver transplants, and interventions related to these complications. She works closely with her interventional radiology department to help provide the highest level of care for these patients. Ashley is also heavily involved with research projects at her institution. In 2018, she graduated with her bachelor’s degree in diagnostic imaging, specializing in education. In her spare time, she is an active item writer for the Registered Vascular Specialist (RVS) exam for Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI). One of her biggest loves is volunteering in underserved countries. She has traveled to Haiti four times and Nepal once to teach and perform ultrasounds. Nothing is more rewarding to her than seeing firsthand how ultrasound is saving lives globally.

Neha Soni-Patel, MEd, BS, RDCS, RCCS, FASE
​Education Work Leader
​Cleveland Clinic Children’s

​Neha Soni-Patel is the education work leader at Cleveland Clinic Children's. She has been a pediatric cardiac sonographer since 2011 and recently earned her master’s degree in health professions education from Cleveland State University. Neha has lectured for the SDMS and for American Society of Echocardiography scientific sessions for the past six years. Neha volunteers with echo organizations and humanitarian missions. She traveled to Rwanda in 2022 and the Whiteriver Apache Reservation in February 2023 to perform screening echoes and train local physicians. She was recently involved with the writing groups at ASE that published point of care ultrasound guidelines for pediatric sonography and updated pediatric echo guidelines. Neha is a new empty nester who is looking forward to contributing more to the echo community now that she has more time. Neha always welcomes sonographers coming up to her to say hi and ask questions. She loves to teach and is always interested in helping the next generation of sonographers become the new leaders.

Blanca Lesmes, MBA
​CEO
​BB Imaging

​Blanca Lesmes is the cofounder and CEO of BB Imaging. She has spent the last two decades working to end preventable maternal mortality through increased access to high-quality ultrasound services. She has grown BB Imaging into the largest independently owned provider of high-risk obstetrical sonography in the nation. Blanca is the creator of TeleScan^®, a telesonography^® SaaS solution that connects underserved locations with expert sonographers. She is a passionate promoter of women in technology and entrepreneurship.

Cathie Scholl, DHSc, RDMS, RVT
​Associate Professor
​Nova Southeastern University-Tampa Bay Reginal Campus

​Cathie Scholl is an associate professor in the cardiovascular sonography program at Nova Southeastern University-Tampa Bay regional campus. She has an associate degree in diagnostic medical sonography, a bachelor’s degree in vascular technology, and both master’s and doctoral degrees in health science. Cathie is a long-time volunteer for both the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS) and the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) and has served on many committees for both organizations. Currently, she is the chair of the ARDMS’ Sonographic Principles and Instrumentation exam. She is an associate editor for the Journal of Diagnostic Medical Sonography and serves on the editorial board. Cathie has authored original research and a case study, both published in the JDMS; in addition, she has contributed to two textbooks. Cathie teaches full-time and scans part-time.