Alumni & Giving
As an SCU alum, you are invited to join a robust network of nearly 18,000 health care graduates nationwide and around the globe. Collaborate and share ideas with our growing web of doctors, practitioners, and licensed integrated health professionals. SCU Alumni Services works to support a deeper connection to the university and to your peers long after graduation. Together the university and SCU Alumni Services are working to provide volunteer, preceptor, mentorship, and educational opportunities as well as social outings to grow and foster our community of SCU alumni.
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Rising Stars
Marc A. Abdou, MS
Marc A. Abdou, MS, serves as a Senior Clinical Researcher at Keck Medicine of USC. He oversees research operations at the USC Spine Center, where his work focuses on translational and clinical studies, including the investigation of novel oxysterol compounds for bone regeneration and spinal fusion. His contributions have resulted in multiple peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations that advance the field of spine surgery.
Read More…Marc A. Abdou, MS
Reflecting on Marc’s growth and impact, Dr. R. Kiran Alluri, MD, Assistant Professor of Clinical Orthopedic Surgery at the Keck School of Medicine of USC and USC Spine Center, shares:
“Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of watching Marc grow into a highly capable and insightful researcher. His graduate training has clearly translated into his clinical research practice, sharpening his scientific judgment, clinical understanding, and ability to connect research with patient care. His background continues to elevate the quality and impact of our work at USC, and it has prepared him exceptionally well as he takes the next step toward medical school.”Marc completed his undergraduate and post-baccalaureate studies at the University of Southern California before earning his Master of Science in Medical Sciences at SCU. He credits his graduate training for strengthening the medical and scientific foundation that underpins his work, preparation that continues to guide him as he advances toward a future career in medicine.
Lizett Herrera, MS (’25)
Lizett Herrera, MS, is a 2025 graduate of SCU’s Master of Science in Human Genetics and Genomics program with a concentration in Pre-Genetic Counseling. She currently works in research at AnaBios, where she applies her academic training and prior laboratory experience to support innovative scientific studies.
Read More…Lizett Herrera, MS
Before enrolling at SCU, Lizett built a strong foundation with five years of experience working with tissue samples. Through her graduate studies, she was able to expand that background into a research-focused career. “With the help of my studies at SCU, I was able to land a job in research for AnaBios,” she shares. Securing employment in research stands as her greatest accomplishment since graduating.
Lizett was drawn to the field of Human Genetics and Genomics because of its growing role in personalized medicine. “I originally pursued this degree because genetic counselors are a key example of where personalized medicine is headed,” she explains. “While the field is still niche, I’m excited about the advancements and the influence genetics will continue to have across healthcare.”
She credits SCU with preparing her for professional success by providing both rigorous academic training and meaningful mentorship. “SCU fostered my curiosity and created an environment where I could cultivate the knowledge that prepared me for conversations that open doors,” Lizett says. She highlights the impact of faculty who have firsthand experience shaping the field, particularly Dr. Dan Handley, whose dedication to student education and resources left a lasting impression. Inspired by her current work, Lizett hopes to return to SCU to pursue a certification in pharmacogenetics, which aligns closely with her evolving career goals.
Lizett also acknowledges Stephanie Gandomi, MS, MBA, LCGC, her first instructor at SCU, for helping her gain confidence communicating with professionals in the field, as well as the SCU library staff, whom she describes as consistently supportive and encouraging of student success.
Reflecting on her journey, Lizett offers this advice to current and future students:“Show up. Put in the effort and follow through. The discomfort and confusion are part of the metamorphosis.”
Kooper Underwood, PA-C
Kooper Underwood, PA-C, is a board-certified physician assistant who has dedicated his career to orthopedic trauma care. A proud graduate of the Master of Science in Physician Assistant (MSPA) program at Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCUHS) in 2020, Kooper credits his academic experience with laying a strong foundation for his professional success.
Read More…Kooper Underwood, PA-C
Kooper Underwood, PA-C, is a board-certified physician assistant who has dedicated his career to orthopedic trauma care. A proud graduate of the Master of Science in Physician Assistant (MSPA) program at Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCUHS) in 2020, Kooper credits his academic experience with laying a strong foundation for his professional success.
After completing a rigorous orthopedic trauma fellowship, Kooper began working in a fast-paced, high-demand orthopedic trauma practice, where he continues to thrive today. His passion for orthopedics is rooted in a lifelong desire to help others and a natural inclination toward hands-on problem solving. “I’ve always been drawn to helping people and working with my hands,” he says. “Orthopedics brings those two passions together in a meaningful way.”
The MSPA program at SCUHS played a pivotal role in shaping Kooper’s clinical competence, particularly through its collaboration with the chiropractic department. This interdisciplinary approach provided a uniquely robust musculoskeletal curriculum that gave him a competitive edge during his fellowship and beyond. “I found myself notably well-prepared compared to peers from other institutions,” Kooper reflects.
During his time at SCUHS, Kooper built lasting relationships with classmates and faculty alike, calling the experience “too rich to count” in terms of meaningful memories. “I couldn’t have asked for a better PA school experience,” he says.
Now a valued member of the team at Texas Bone & Joint, Kooper remains connected to the SCUHS community by participating in Alumni Career Day and other alumni events. To current and future students, he offers this advice: “Keep your initial intentions at the forefront of your mind. School can get stressful and overwhelming. Just remember why you’re there in the first place. And always have something fun planned—even if it’s just a day trip a month from now. It gives you something to look forward to.”
Kooper Underwood’s journey from PA student to orthopedic specialist is a testament to perseverance, passion, and the power of a strong educational foundation.
Daniel Black, PA-C
Daniel Black, PA-C, is a physician assistant who has quickly established himself as a skilled and confident provider in the demanding world of emergency medicine. Certified for just over a year, he is already handling a broad spectrum of cases in one of Los Angeles’ busiest emergency departments.
Read More…Daniel Black, PA-C
Daniel Black, PA-C, is a physician assistant who has quickly established himself as a skilled and confident provider in the demanding world of emergency medicine. Certified for just over a year, he is already handling a broad spectrum of cases in one of Los Angeles’ busiest emergency departments. Since joining the team Daniel has worked the night shift, managing the second wing of the ER on his own, handling up to twelve beds at a time. His greatest accomplishment so far has been the ability to do this with minimal to no supervision, a responsibility he approaches with professionalism and a quiet confidence.
“I’ve had the chance to gain irreplaceable solo experience, which is both a blessing and a curse,” Daniel says. “There’s a significant amount of pressure to perform at my best at all times, but that challenge is what makes the work so rewarding. Every decision counts, and there’s a level of responsibility that forces you to grow quickly.”
Daniel credits much of his success to the rigorous training he received at Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU), where he learned to blend clinical knowledge with hands-on experience. “SCU prepared me very well for this field. The combination of clinical rotations and the strong didactic foundation gave me the confidence and competence to dive into emergency medicine from day one. I was able to achieve a level of competency within just six months of working in the ER, and I owe a lot of that to the education I received,” he explains.
Before stepping into his role at the ER, Daniel completed 100 hours of intensive training in the main department, handling cases such as STEMI (ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction) and stroke, which built a solid foundation for his practice. In Los Angeles, he’s faced a wide array of cases, ranging from common colds and the flu to rare and complex conditions like malaria and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Each case has expanded his knowledge and honed his diagnostic skills.
“What I do best is help people,” Daniel reflects. “My main goal is to heal and mend, and I find deep satisfaction in the results. Emergency medicine is tough, but the impact you make in someone’s life in a moment of crisis is incredibly fulfilling.”
Along with the challenges and pressures, Daniel appreciates the unique flexibility that comes with being a Physician Assistant. “I also love the freedom this career offers. There’s the flexibility to change specialties, work multiple jobs, and find a work-life balance that suits my needs. It’s something that’s difficult to find in most other professions.”
Looking ahead, Daniel is eager to continue advancing his career. He sees a future where he could expand into trauma services or take on even higher-acuity cases, continuously pushing himself to develop his skills and expertise. With a solid foundation, a commitment to learning, and a drive to make a difference, Daniel Black is poised for continued success in emergency medicine.
Dr. Vanessa Manfredi, DC
Dr. Vanessa Manfredi, DC, a distinguished alumna of SCU, has recently been honored for her outstanding service and dedication at Camp Pendleton. Over the past year, she has provided chiropractic care to active-duty service members, specializing in the treatment of various injuries.
Read More…Dr. Vanessa Manfredi, DC
Dr. Vanessa Manfredi, DC, a distinguished alumna of SCU, has recently been honored for her outstanding service and dedication at Camp Pendleton. Over the past year, she has provided chiropractic care to active-duty service members, specializing in the treatment of various injuries. Her exceptional contributions have earned recognition from US Marine Corps and Navy officers, including commanders and a 1-star general.In acknowledgment of her commitment to excellence, Dr. Manfredi has received several prestigious awards, including a Certificate of Completion from the United States Navy Bureau of Medicine and Surgery for her year-long chiropractic internship, a custom plaque from the Naval Hospital for her work with the Chiropractic Sports Medicine Program, and a Marine Corps-issued Challenge Coin presented by Lieutenant Colonel Davis of the 1st Reconnaissance Battalion.
Dr. Manfredi describes her experience as incredibly rewarding, noting the profound impact chiropractic care has on the health and well-being of those who serve. Her dedication reflects her passion for chiropractic care and her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others. We proudly celebrate Dr. Manfredi’s achievements and her continued contributions to the field of chiropractic care.
Gabrielle Villard
Gabrielle Villard’s path to genomics was anything but straightforward. After initially embarking on a career in medicine, she found herself unfulfilled and searching for a deeper connection to her scientific interests. It was during this period of reflection that Gabrielle discovered her true passion—genetics.
Read More…Gabrielle Villard
Gabrielle Villard’s path to genomics was anything but straightforward. After initially embarking on a career in medicine, she found herself unfulfilled and searching for a deeper connection to her scientific interests. It was during this period of reflection that Gabrielle discovered her true passion—genetics. This realization led her to pursue a Master of Science in Human Genetics and Genomics (MSHGG) at SCU, where she found a curriculum that reignited her curiosity and gave her the direction she had been seeking. “It took me a while to figure out what brought me into science, and I realized it was genetics,” she shared.
SCU’s MSHGG program offered Gabrielle a chance to revisit the foundations of genetics while expanding her knowledge through a genetic counseling certificate. Despite the challenges of completing her studies during the COVID-19 pandemic, Gabrielle found the program to be both rigorous and collaborative. “Even though it’s an online program, the students were still able to collaborate and help each other,” she noted. This supportive academic environment played a crucial role in helping Gabrielle refine her goals, ultimately blending her love of science with her desire to work in clinical settings.
Gabrielle’s passion and perseverance paid off when she was selected for the highly competitive Post-Baccalaureate Genomics Analyst Fellowship, jointly offered by ASHG and NHGRI. Initially hesitant to apply, she pushed through self-doubt and advanced through the selection process. “Moving to the second round was nerve-wracking, but it also made me realize that something about me stood out,” she said. Now working as a program analyst on major genomics initiatives, Gabrielle collaborates with researchers from around the world, gaining invaluable exposure to both scientific and policy-oriented aspects of the field.
Looking ahead, Gabrielle hopes to make genetic counseling more accessible, particularly to underserved communities. Her time in the fellowship has not only expanded her scientific expertise but also strengthened her commitment to equity in genomic medicine. “As a first-generation student, it can be difficult to envision yourself in these spaces,” Gabrielle said, “but this experience has shown me that there is a community of people who want to see me succeed.” Her journey is a powerful reminder of how passion, persistence, and the right support can lead to transformative opportunities in science.
Emeka Aludogbu, MS, DC (’16)
I was the first Black (non-graduate) student to attend the Olympics as a treating student. That was Rio 2016, before I graduated. SCU has helped me understand how to truly care for people of all walks. Now, my career is aiding to help heal the world. I wanted to be the beacon of light in my family, and everyone around me, that didn’t grow up health-conscious.
Read More…Emeka Aludogbu, MS, DC ('16)
I was the first Black (non-graduate) student to attend the Olympics as a treating student. That was Rio 2016, before I graduated.
SCU has helped me understand how to truly care for people of all walks. Now, my career is aiding to help heal the world. I wanted to be the beacon of light in my family, and everyone around me, that didn’t grow up health-conscious. SCU prepared me for the tests and board exams I took. And listening to Dr. Morganthal challenged my perspective and understanding of her teaching.
Advice for students or recent graduates: You must not give up. [There’s a] repetitive process you must endure to become successful! Be patient with yourself, but also be diligent in your direction and goals.
Dr. Meghan Gray, DACM, MSHNFM, L.Ac (’17)
Acupuncture changed my life. I couldn’t resist the urge to help people the way my acupuncturist helped me.You learn so much when you start practicing after graduation. But you had to graduate and pass boards to get there! .
Read More…Dr. Meghan Gray, DACM, MSHNFM, L.Ac ('17)
Acupuncture changed my life. I couldn’t resist the urge to help people the way my acupuncturist helped me.
You learn so much when you start practicing after graduation. But you had to graduate and pass boards to get there! Thank you to SCU for giving me a beautiful foundation on which I can grow my knowledge, my career, and my business! I loved interning in Taiwan with some of my classmates. I loved following Dr. Larry Hsiao around in clinic. I loved working with Dr. Mir on an amazing capstone project. And I loved that Dr. Yu showed me what it means to grind and get stuff done. These folks played a huge role in my education, I am so grateful!
I opened a holistic health and beauty clinic in Northern Colorado called Balanced Thistle. Every beauty service at Balanced Thistle has health benefits. We work heavily with women’s health issues such as fertility, PCOS, [and] endo, as well as stress, anxiety, digestive issues, headaches, and more. We offer acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, functional lab testing and nutrition, yoni steaming, lymphatic massage, and gua sha facials.
My number one goal is to build a team that all believe in Balanced Thistle’s mission to provide unparalleled holistic health and beauty care to Northern Colorado. There is power in numbers. I want to surround myself with brilliant minds. You can help a lot more people if you team up with other, like-minded providers.
Advice for students and recent graduates: Learn and absorb everything you can. Stay humble—you will never, ever, know it all. Be the clinician that you would want to see!
Walter James White, Jr. (Jai) (’21 & ’22)
I am a retired United States Air Force officer after 15 years of honorable service to this nation as a Space and Missile officer, Nuclear operator, Space Instructor, Space Duty Officer, Plans Officer and Investigator.
Read More…Walter James White, Jr. (Jai) ('21 & '22)
I am a retired United States Air Force officer after 15 years of honorable service to this nation as a Space and Missile officer, Nuclear operator, Space Instructor, Space Duty Officer, Plans Officer and Investigator. My education background consists of a Masters in Education from the University of South Carolina, a Masters in Business for Veterans from the University of Southern California, Advanced Neuromuscular Massage Therapist and Health Educator certification from the National Holistic Institute, and Ayurvedic Health Counselor and Ayurvedic Practitioner certifications from Southern California University of Health Sciences. I am currently an independent contractor with mainly private clientele providing therapeutic and sports massage therapy along with Ayurvedic body treatments and consultation. I also provide corporate massage therapy in the office environment. I have practiced massage for the past ten years, taught for 3.5 years and presently mentor current and prospective professionals in the industry.
SCU has helped me attain my goals by expanding my knowledge and experience in health education with an extensive Ayurvedic curriculum, clinical practice and pharmacology of herbal medicine. This opportunity has allowed me to understand and assess differential diagnoses, integrate and collaborate with other students in respective disciplines and implement an effective course of treatment to patients with real-world conditions.
Mindy Mar, DC, CCSP, DACBSP, ICSC, CAC (’02)
I have over 25 years of experience working with a variety of professional teams and athletes in the NFL, USOPC, Team USA, Bobsled & Skeleton, US Paracyling, PGA, MLB, NHL, WTT, Team Canada Cycling, USA Cricket, London Games 2012, World Games 2017, World Sports Games 2019, America’s Cup 2010, ASU and numerous World Cup and regional/World Cup qualifiers all around the world.
Read More…Mindy Mar, DC, CCSP, DACBSP, ICSC, CAC ('02)
I have over 25 years of experience working with a variety of professional teams and athletes in the NFL, USOPC, Team USA, Bobsled & Skeleton, US Paracyling, PGA, MLB, NHL, WTT, Team Canada Cycling, USA Cricket, London Games 2012, World Games 2017, World Sports Games 2019, America’s Cup 2010, ASU and numerous World Cup and regional/World Cup qualifiers all around the world.I’ve done pretty much everything a chiropractor can do and then some! But becoming board certified in animal chiropractic is probably the biggest accomplishment to date.
I am a board-certified animal chiropractor, a dually licensed certified chiropractic sports physician® and a Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians®, the highest level of academic achievement for a sports chiropractor. I currently work on-site at 4 different veterinary clinics in San Diego, providing animal chiropractic and rehabilitation services under DVM supervision.
I am passionate about animal chiropractic and physical rehabilitation, preventative healthcare, and pet loss grief support. Working with or treating small animals is the hardest job I’ve ever had as a chiropractor. I never appreciated how “easy” it was to examine and treat human patients until now. Huge shoutout to everyone who works with animals, especially the DVMs and vet techs.After I graduated [from] Arizona State University back in 1997, I didn’t know what I wanted to do thereafter. So I opened up the yellow pages and found Dr. Alan Palmer, team chiropractor for the AZ Diamondbacks and Phx Coyotes, picked up the phone and asked if their office was looking for any assistance. I worked side by side with Dr. Palmer for two and half years before heading to chiropractic school at LACC (before it was SCUHS). He taught me everything I was willing to learn about the profession and field of chiropractic as I knew nothing about chiropractic beforehand. For anyone who is happy to know me as a chiropractor, please thank Dr. Alan Palmer and his lovely wife Carol for bringing me on and teaching me so much about the science, art, philosophy and business side of chiropractic. They are the reason I became a chiropractor!
SCU is heavy on academics, which I really like. It’s been a while since I was in chiro school, but I believe I started as early as term 3 with trial practical exams for real life case management scenarios. I enjoyed all the rotations that came with term 7-9 and felt extremely prepared way ahead of all 4 board exams, which I passed all on the first try with very high scores. Years later, SCUHS also played a vital role in my Diplomate training via American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians. I took my education and training to the fullest extent with a 2 week rotation offered to me by the Olympic Training Center upon completion of my Diplomate program, which led me to Team USA Para Cycling, Bobsled & Skeleton, on several World Cups around the world, and eventually the London Games. Thank you SCUHS!
My time during chiropractic school was one of the best times of my life. Always will be. I still remember what anatomy lab smells like. I still remember the breakfast burritos at the cafeteria. I still remember eating lunch outside at the tables with classmates. Little things like going to Denny’s after anatomy lab to grind out more studying in preparation for the midterm exams with fellow classmates… the bonding that occurs during times as such have never been forgotten on my end. I was part of a very loud, boisterous, somewhat unruly term and I very much appreciate all the instructors and deans who put up with us for so long back then. I’ve known Dr. Scaringe for a very long time, way before he was President. I can honestly say he’s the best gem and asset SCU has.
Advice for students and recent graduates: Grind it out. To some degree it is about the destination (graduating and being successful as a DC one day) but it will happen before you know it, so don’t take for granted the good times in school because right now you really are living the good old days. Be cool to your instructors and faculty staff, they’re grinding too (more than you realize). It’s ok if you don’t know exactly what you want to specialize in or where you’ll be in 10 years. It took me several years out of school to find my niche and I have reinvented myself as a chiropractor several times over the years.
As an SCU alum, you are invited to join a robust network of nearly 18,000 health care graduates nationwide and around the globe. Collaborate and share ideas with our growing web of doctors, practitioners, and licensed integrated health professionals. SCU Alumni Services works to support a deeper connection to the university and to your peers long after graduation. Together the university and SCU Alumni Services are working to provide volunteer, preceptor, mentorship, and educational opportunities as well as social outings to grow and foster our community of SCU alumni.
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