Our leadership are highly educated medical professionals

Andrew High, JD, MBA

Of Counsel

Andrew High, JD, MBA, has dedicated himself to healthcare higher education for over 10 years, holding key roles as Of Counsel at Smith Chason College. Andrew's commitment to fostering innovative and engaging college cultures for student success extends to his volunteer work for ACCSC, where he serves as a team leader conducting accreditation site visits.

Andrew’s impressive background includes an MBA from UCLA Anderson (2017), where he was a Global Advisory Program Fellow. In 2012, he earned a notable recognition as an Order of the Barristers Inductee and a national winner of the ABA Representation in Mediation Competition. Licensed to practice law in California and Arizona, Andrew brings a unique blend of legal expertise and leadership to healthcare education. He is also a CALI award winner in ASU’s Innovation Advancement Clinic and has clerked for the Maricopa County Superior Court.

Rebecca Klasfeld

Executive Vice President

As the Executive Vice President at Smith Chason College, Rebecca Klasfeld brings over a decade of dynamic and visionary strategic leadership to steer the institution towards innovation and excellence. Having previously worked in developing startups and with companies such as Google and Zagat, Rebecca honed her skills as a strategic leader in the business arena and has a track record of guiding enterprises to new heights.

A seasoned professional with a commitment to lifelong learning, Rebecca holds her Master's of Business Administration from UCLA, combining practical expertise with a solid academic foundation. With a vision for innovation and a passion for empowering the next generation of leaders, Rebecca plays a vital role in guiding Smith Chason College toward a future of continued excellence and success.

Kristen Torres

Senior Vice President of Campus Operations and Strategy

Kristen’s leadership and collaboration with our Campus Directors, Campus Operations team, and Executive Leadership have profoundly shaped the student and employee experience at Smith Chason College. She is dedicated to cultivating a dynamic and supportive culture that continuously evolves to meet the needs of our community.
With extensive experience in the education sector, Kristen has held key leadership roles at top healthcare education institutions, driving growth and operational excellence at every stage. Her expertise in strategic development, campus operations, and student success makes her an invaluable asset to Smith Chason College. In her role, she oversees campus operations and infrastructure, ensuring seamless functionality while fostering responsible, sustainable growth to support our long-term mission.

Alanna Marx, MS, MBA

Vice President of Academic Planning and Development

Alanna serves at the Vice President of Academic Planning and Development at Smith Chason College. In her role, Alanna provides strategic leadership and vision for expanding current and future learning initiatives that align with institutional goals and industry trends. She drives forward-thinking, metrics-driven efforts that promote lifelong learning while partnering closely with compliance, college, and campus leaders to target areas for academic improvement, learning and development opportunities, and evaluate new program opportunities. Alanna oversees the Academic Development team, ensuring the effective creation and continual enhancement of internal trainings, partner education, and institutional development initiatives. Central to her role is a commitment to closing the loop—researching needs, launching solutions, and consistently following up to measure impact and effectiveness. Through collaboration with academic partners and industry leaders, Alanna ensures programs remain relevant, scalable, and impactful—positioning the institution as a leader in ongoing professional and academic advancement.

Drawing on her extensive experience in higher education since 2005, Alanna contributes a wealth of knowledge to Smith Chason College. Her focus lies in strengthening and expanding academic offerings, assessing operations, and championing student success. Alanna has played pivotal roles in accreditation, college admissions, and non-profit educational organizations. Beyond her administrative roles, she shares her knowledge as a former college instructor of business, anthropology, and cultural studies. Alanna Marx stands as a dynamic force shaping the academic landscape at Smith Chason College.

April Enniss

Corporate Director of Campus Operations

April Enniss is the driving force behind the seamless integration of educational strategy and operational efficiency as the Corporate Director of Campus Operations. With a proven track record of 13 years in educational leadership, she orchestrates visionary plans that optimize campus functionality and elevate the learning experience. By aligning operational frameworks with academic goals, April spearheads initiatives that bolster the dynamic growth of our educational campuses.

April fosters a culture of collaboration and innovation among staff while maintaining a sharp focus on operational excellence. Her commitment to propelling our campuses forward through innovative solutions and steadfast leadership embodies her dedication to creating vibrant and conducive learning environments that inspire academic achievement and community engagement.

Dr. Usama Henry, MD (f), MBBCh., RMSK

Dean of Academic Affairs

Dr. Usama Henry, MD (f), MBBCh., with a Master's Degree in Surgery and RMSK accreditation, currently holds the position of Academic Dean of General Education and serves as an MSK (Musculoskeletal) and Medical Science Instructor at Smith Chason College.

Having accrued over 16 years of surgical experience, Dr. Henry joined Smith Chason College in 2017. Dr. Henry specializes in Medical Science, bringing expertise in Anatomy & Physiology, Medical Terminology, Pathology, and Musculoskeletal Ultrasound to the Smith Chason College WCUI School of Medical Imaging curriculum. Acknowledging the pivotal role played by healthcare professionals beyond doctors, including nurses, ultrasound technicians, and MRI technologists, Dr. Henry takes pride in contributing to Smith Chason’s mission and nurturing students to potentially make a significant impact in patient care.

Kim Pace, MHA, BS, RDMS, RDCS, RVT, FASE

Director of Continuing Education

Mieke Wibowo

Campus Director - Los Angeles Campus

Mieke Wibowo has been a dedicated member of the Smith Chason College community for more than 20 years. Throughout her tenure, she has overseen and managed the campus’s accounting and operational functions, playing a key role in strengthening the quality of education, institutional services, and student achievement. Her deep institutional knowledge of Smith Chason College and the Los Angeles campus continues to make a meaningful impact on campus culture, supporting collaboration, consistency, and student success. In recognition of her leadership and longstanding commitment to the college, Mieke was appointed Campus Director of the Los Angeles campus in Summer 2025.

Brieana Mathieu, MFin

Campus Director - Ontario Campus

Brieana is passionate about helping students achieve their educational and career goals while building strong, collaborative teams that support student success. Throughout her career in higher education, she has led across admissions, academics, career services, and campus operations, giving her a well-rounded perspective on the student experience from the beginning of the educational journey through completion.

She enjoys mentoring others, providing strong leadership and support, solving complex challenges, and creating systems that improve outcomes for both students and staff. Brieana believes the best leaders foster trust, accountability, and continuous growth. Her goal is to create productive environments where people feel supported, motivated, and empowered to succeed.

George Powers

Campus Director - San Marcos Campus

George brings over 17 years of leadership experience in higher education, with a strong background in student services, financial aid, and academic support. Throughout his career, he has built a reputation for being reliable, well-organized, and student-focused — qualities that align closely with our values. George is known for his ability to build strong teams, solve problems thoughtfully, and create a positive and supportive environment for both students and staff. For the last 5 years, he led a large allied health school in Chula Vista, CA. He was instrumental in managing site development and career services, knowing the San Diego market and the important clinical partnerships we need to build.

His leadership style is both strategic and compassionate, and we’re confident he will be a tremendous asset to the San Marcos campus and our broader organization.

Sophia Perkovich, MS, RMT

Campus Director – Phoenix Campus

Sophia Perkovich, MS, RMT, took on the position of Campus Director at the Smith Chason College Phoenix Campus in September 2018, bringing with her over 25 years of profound experience in higher education leadership. With a diverse skill set covering education management, compliance, government relations, networking, and enrollment management, Sophia offers strategic direction and comprehensive support across all facets of campus operations.

Beyond her pivotal role on campus, Sophia actively contributes to the broader educational landscape. Serving as a board member of the Arizona Private School Association and assuming the role of Public Commissioner for the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training in Washington, DC, she effectively utilizes her expertise to influence educational discussions both at the local and national levels.

Adriana LeBer, MAOM

Director of Education - Los Angeles Campus

Adriana is an education leader with 15+ years of experience creating accredited programs, professional development opportunities, and student-centered learning experiences across the healthcare and higher education spaces. She brings expertise in academic operations, curriculum development, compliance oversight, and cross-functional teamwork. Adriana is adept at leading faculty teams, enhancing student outcomes, and aligning educational programs with institutional goals and regulatory standards.

Jennifer Marquez, M. Ed.

Director of Education - Ontario Campus

Jennifer is an accomplished education leader with extensive experience directing academic programs, supporting faculty development, and fostering student success. As a Director of Education, she has led strategic academic initiatives, enhanced instructional quality, and built collaborative, high-performing instructor teams committed to excellence. Her career includes impactful roles across higher education and K-12 environments, where she championed inclusive learning, supported continuous faculty growth, and ensured students received the guidance and resources they need to thrive. Jennifer is known for her student-centered leadership style, her ability to inspire educators, and her dedication to creating safe, supportive, and engaging learning communities. With a strong foundation in cross-cultural teaching and program management, she remains passionate about empowering students to reach their full potential while cultivating talented, mission-driven instructional teams.

Kenneth McDowell

Director of Education - San Marcos Campus

Dr. Yasmin Ali, Ed.D, MPH, R.T.(R)(M)(ARRT)

Director of Education - Phoenix Campus

Dr. Yasmin Ali serves as the Director of Education at the Phoenix Campus, where she offers invaluable support, guidance, and mentorship to program directors, faculty, students, and various departments within the college. Collaborating closely with the leadership team, she ensures the delivery of high-quality education and equips students with the necessary resources for success.

With a rich professional history, Dr. Ali has held positions such as Head of Education, Senior Quality Assurance Advisor, Radiology Service Manager, and Dean of Allied Health. Possessing a doctorate in educational leadership and a background as a radiographer, she possesses a unique blend of clinical expertise and educational insight.

Zack Alsunna, BS, RDMS, OBGYN ABDOMEN, RVT CPI ECG

Senior Lab Director & Assistant Director of Education - Ontario Campus

With a deep-rooted passion for education, Zack Alsunna, BS, RDMS (OB/GYN, Abdomen), RVT, CPI, ECG, has built a career centered on instruction, teaching, and training. Since joining Smith Chason College in April 2009, he has been proud to contribute to the institution’s mission and continued growth.

Zack’s professional journey began at an early age, earning his pilot’s license and serving as a flight instructor. After more than a decade in aviation—progressing from instruction into management—he transitioned into the medical field, where he earned his ultrasound registries. Bringing this diverse experience into healthcare education, Zack joined the Smith Chason College team and has remained dedicated to supporting students, advancing learning, and growing within a culture of care ever since.

LJ Nelson, MSN, RN

Interim Director of Nursing

LJ Nelson, MSN-Ed, RN has served as Assistant Director of Nursing (ADON) with Smith Chason College March 2024 where she has demonstrated leadership in nursing education, faculty support, curriculum development, and student success.
She brings 18 years of experience in nursing education, and has a strong commitment to developing competent, confident, and practice-ready nurses. LJ’s experience as an educator and nursing leader in academic settings position her well to advance into the Nursing Director role, where she will continue to promote educational excellence, support faculty and staff development, and foster an environment focused on delivering high-quality nursing education.
LJ will continue to promote educational excellence, support faculty and staff development, and foster an environment focused on delivering high-quality nursing education. Her leadership will be instrumental in supporting faculty, staff, and students while maintaining a strong focus on academic and clinical excellence.

Garenneh Cholakian, BS, RDMS(ABD, OBGYN); RVT(VT); RMSKS(MSKS)

Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program Director – Los Angeles Campus

Garenneh Cholakian is a highly experienced and dedicated ultrasound instructor with over 11 years of experience in the clinical field of diagnostic medical sonography. She holds certifications from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) in Abdomen (AB), Obstetrics & Gynecology (OB-GYN), Registered Musculoskeletal Sonography (RMSKS), Registered Vascular Sonography (RVT), and Radiologic Technologists in Sonography, R.T. (S) from The American Registry of Radiologic Technologist (ARRT).

Garenneh earned her Bachelor of Science in Diagnostic Medical Sonography from Smith Chason College, where she graduated with honors. Her extensive clinical experience includes working in various medical settings, such as hospitals and outpatient clinics.

As an instructor, Garenneh is passionate about educating the next generation sonographers. She has been teaching at Smith Chason College for 10 years where she developed a comprehensive curriculum that blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice. Garenneh’s teaching style is characterized by her patience, approachable manner and her ability to make complex concepts accessible.

Her clinical background includes experience in hospitals and outpatient clinics, and she currently still practices as a Sonographer at Providence St. Joseph Hospital. Staying active in clinical practice allows Garenneh to bring current techniques, technologies, protocols, and real-world experiences into the classroom, helping ensure students receive relevant and up-to-date education that reflects the evolving healthcare environment.

Garenneh is committed to helping students successfully transition from the classroom into the clinical environment. She looks forward to strengthening the program by incorporating current clinical practices, emerging technologies, advanced scanning techniques, and real-world case experiences into the curriculum.

Her ultimate goal is to prepare confident, knowledgeable, and clinically competent sonographers who are ready to succeed in a rapidly evolving healthcare profession and continue growing throughout their careers.

Kristine Thewes, BS, RDMS, RVS

Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program Director - Ontario Campus

Kristine Thewes, BS, RDMS, RVS, is the Program Director of Diagnostic Medical Sonography at our Ontario Campus. Throughout her career, Kristine Thewes has played an active role in both patient care and the education of future diagnostic medical sonography professionals. As a Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer credentialed in Abdomen, OB/GYN, and Vascular Sonography, she brings experience from clinical and educational settings to her work with students, faculty, and clinical partners.

Prior to joining Smith Chason College, Kristine served as a Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program Director at another postsecondary institution. Her responsibilities included curriculum development, faculty oversight, accreditation compliance, student success initiatives, and the development of clinical partnerships across multiple campuses. These experiences strengthened her commitment to providing quality sonography education and preparing students for their future careers in healthcare.

Kristine also holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Management, which complements her clinical and educational experience with a background in healthcare operations, workforce development, and strategic program planning. At Smith Chason College, she is focused on supporting student success, fostering strong clinical partnerships, and contributing to the continued growth of the Diagnostic Medical Sonography program.

Amal Guirguis, BA, RDMS (AB, OBGYN), RVT(VT)

Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program Director - San Marcos Campus

Amal Guirguis, BA, RDMS (AB, OBGYN), RVT(VT)  is Program Director of Diagnostic Medical Sonography at Smith Chason College’s San Marcos campus. With over a decade of experience in medical imaging and sonography education, Amal is committed to academic excellence, student success, and clinical integrity. She holds multiple credentials in diagnostic medical sonography and possesses extensive clinical expertise in abdominal, vascular, and OB/GYN ultrasound. Amal has led and taught sonography programs at various institutions, emphasizing hands-on learning, professional development, and patient-centered care. As Program Director, she oversees curriculum development, instructor training, student mentorship, and clinical partnerships, ensuring that students are well-prepared for certification, externships, and successful careers in healthcare. Known for her collaborative leadership style and dedication to a respectful, inclusive learning environment, Amal is passionate about empowering the next generation of sonographers and maintaining the highest professional standards.

Laurie Bentson, MHA, BS, RDMS (AB), RVT (VT)

Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program Director – Phoenix Campus

Laurie Bentson joined Smith Chason College in September 2019, dedicating her role to supporting the personal, didactic, and technical development of students. Collaborating with her team, Laurie actively connects with the ultrasound community to deliver high-quality education, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for successful careers in sonography.

With a rich background that encompasses diverse sonographer and leadership positions within Banner Health, Laurie brings commendable experience, enhancing her commitment to cultivating an effective learning environment at Smith Chason College.

Dr. Behrouz Rahimpour,MD, ARMRIT, MRSO, (MRSC™)

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Program Director – Los Angeles & San Marcos Campus

In his capacity as the Program Director for the MR programs at both the Los Angeles and San Marcos Campuses of Smith Chason College, Behrouz Rahimpour also serves as a Faculty Member, contributing expertise in Medical Sciences, Physics, and the intricacies of MRI. His academic journey began with a distinguished Medical Degree from Iran, leading to immersive engagements in Biophysics, Bioinformatics, and years of valuable medical practice. Behrouz's focus is on MR Practice, Research, Management, and System Optimization, providing insightful business consultations along the way. With hands-on experience across various MR systems, including FONAR, GE, Hitachi, Philips, Toshiba, and Siemens.

Behrouz Rahimpour is a dedicated professional with a penchant for innovation, complemented by a touch of humor and a profound love for the history of science and the natural world.

Mark Segura, AS, ARMRIT

Interim Magentic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Program Director - Ontario Campus

Douglas S Boyd, AAS, ARRT, ARMRIT, R.T. M.R.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Program Director – Phoenix Campus

Douglas S Boyd, AAS, ARRT, ARMRIT, R.T. M.R., has dedicated nearly three decades to the field of MRI technology since graduating in 1991. Doug recently served as the MRI and PET/MRI Supervisor at the Phoenix VA Hospital in AZ, home to the largest MRI Department in the VA system, featuring a rare PET/MRI.

Doug is a frequent national lecturer on MRI, emphasizing safety, and has mentored new MRI students from various schools over the past decade. Today his passion for safety and competency in the MRI field has helped build the MRI curriculum at Smith Chason College as he leads the Phoenix Campus MRI Faculty as MRI Program Director. Drawing on his seasoned expertise, Doug shares valuable advice with students, encouraging them with the mantra: "Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today."

Nima Dashtizadeh, MBA, RDCS, RVT

Cardiovascular Sonography Program Director - Los Angeles Campus

Nima brings over 25 years of experience as a Cardiovascular Technologist. He previously served as an instructor at West Coast Ultrasound Institute from 2004 to 2014, where he helped train and mentor many aspiring ultrasound professionals during the institute’s early years. Even during the years when he was not formally teaching with the institute, Nima continued to support our students by mentoring and training them at the hospital where he worked, demonstrating his ongoing dedication to student learning and professional. development.
He holds a Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Administration and a Bachelor of Science from the University of Phoenix. His extensive clinical experience, leadership background, and commitment to education make him a valuable addition to our team.

Dr. Bhaa Azar, FMD, RDCS, RVT, RDMS (ABD,OBGYN), CCT, CPI

Cardiovascular Sonography Program Director - Ontario Campus

Dr. Bhaa Azar, FMD, RDCS, RVT, RDMS (ABD,OBGYN), CCT, CPI, serves as the Cardiovascular Sonography Program Director at the Smith Chason College Ontario Campus. Holding a bachelor's degree in medicine and general surgery from Mosul University, Iraq, and a cardiovascular and general ultrasound diploma from Newbridge College. Dr. Azar boasts multiple certifications, including Registered Diagnostic Cardiac Sonographer (RDCS), Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS - ABD & OBGYN), Registered Vascular Technologist (RVT), Certified Cardiography Technician (CCT), and Certified Postsecondary Instructor (CPI).

He joined Smith Chason in 2006, as an instructor and later rising to the position of Cardiovascular Sonography Program Director in 2015—a role he continues to hold with distinction.

Brooke Bishop, BS, RCS

Cardiovascular Sonography Program Director - San Marcos Campus

Brooke Bishop, BS, RCS, serves as the San Marcos CVS Program Director and brings extensive clinical experience in cardiovascular sonography. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Echocardiography, is a Registered Cardiac Sonographer, and is a graduate of Smith Chason, demonstrating strong academic preparation and professional expertise in cardiovascular imaging.

Brooke has worked across multiple major hospital systems in San Diego, gaining broad exposure to high-acuity environments and diverse patient populations. This experience has provided her with a deep understanding of regional healthcare standards and clinical expectations. She practices in accordance with American Society of Echocardiography (ASE) guidelines, with a strong emphasis on accuracy, quality, and patient safety.

She is deeply committed to educating and mentoring future sonographers, fostering clinical excellence, critical thinking, and professional growth. Her leadership reflects a dedication to academic rigor, lifelong learning, and the advancement of diagnostic cardiovascular sonography.

Maya Samuel, BHS, ACS, RDCS (AE)

Cardiovascular Sonography Program Director - Phoenix Campus

Maya Samuel is excited to be joining Smith Chason College as the CVS Program Director.

Before becoming a cardiac sonographer, she earned her Bachelor of Health Science from Arizona State University. She has worked as a cardiac sonographer for the past eight years, gaining experience across a variety of clinical settings as both a staff and travel sonographer. Her travel assignments took her to Illinois, Massachusetts, and North Dakota. She completed her education at the Mayo Clinic School of Health Sciences (Scottsdale campus) and later advanced her training through Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, where she earned her advanced cardiac sonography certification.

Throughout her career, Maya has developed a strong passion not only for echocardiography, but also for education and mentorship. She has had the opportunity to work closely with students and new sonographers, helping them build confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and grow into competent professionals. Supporting student success and fostering a positive learning environment is something she truly values.

As she steps into this role, Maya looks forward to collaborating with colleagues to continue building a strong, engaging, and supportive program for students.

Karen Ambrowitz, MPH, RDMS (AB)(OBGYN) RDCS(AE)(FE)(PE)

Pediatric Echocardiography Program Director - Los Angeles Campus

Karen Ambrowitz, MPH, RDMS (AB)(OBGYN)
RDCS(AE)(FE)(PE) is a pediatric and adult echocardiographer and has worked at Smith Chason since 2007. Karen co-wrote the curriculum for the Pediatric Echocardiography certificate and Bachelor of Science Program and is one of the instructors for the lecture and lab component of the program. Karen has been in the field of pediatric and fetal echocardiography since 1997, has worked in prestigious medical institutions such as Mount Sinai Medical Center, Weill Cornell Medical Center, Denver Children’s Hospital, and is currently the technical director of the pediatric echocardiography lab at Ronald Reagan UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital. She also has extensive teaching experience, having taught cardiovascular ultrasound at SUNY Downstate Medical Center (2001-2004), as well as teaching pediatric and fetal echocardiography to pediatric cardiology fellows, residents, international physicians, and medical students. Karen received her B.S. in Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound at SUNY Downstate Medical Center and earned her MPH from Columbia University and Argosy University. She has been practicing in the field for 28 years and is registered in fetal, pediatric, and adult echocardiography, as well as in abdominal and Obstetrics/Gynecology.

Morgan Zinn-Scheiffele

Radiologic Technology Program Director - Phoenix Campus

Filling the role of Program Director for the Radiologic Technology Program, Morgan was born and raised in ​Phoenix, Arizona. ​Morgan has her degree in ​medical radiography as well as an associate's degree in biology. She has 5 years' experience in the medical field; starting as a general radiographer then Regional Clinical Manager. Her most recent role has been with Smith Chason College as the Clinical Education Liaison for the Rad Program. She has a passion for education and for her students. Outside of work, ​Morgan enjoys the outdoors, her many animals, and finding new ways to enjoy life. Morgan is incredibly excited to continue to grow and take on this leadership role within the college.

Rochelle Jaszay, RDCS (AE, PE)

Assistant Cardiovascular Sonography Program Director - Phoenix Campus

Jamie Clugston, RDMS, RVT

Ultrasound Lab Director - San Marcos Campus

Jamie Clugston is an Ultrasound Lab Director and DMS Instructor at Smith Chason College’s
San Marcos campus, where she has been teaching since the campus first opened. As a proud
alumna, she is passionate about giving back to the program that helped shape her career.
Recently promoted to Lab Director, Jamie plays a key role in enhancing the lab environment and
overall student experience.

She holds ARDMS credentials in OB/GYN, Abdomen, Breast, and RVT, and is known for her
hands-on teaching style, supportive approach, and dedication to helping students build
confidence and succeed in clinical practice.

Sarah Chavoya, AAS, RDMS (AB, OBGYN, BR)

Ultrasound Lab Director - Phoenix Campus

Sarah Chavoya serves as the Diagnostic Medical Sonography Lab Director at Smith Chason College. Born and raised in Arizona, she earned her degree in Diagnostic Medical Sonography in 2014 and brings more than a decade of clinical ultrasound experience to her role.

Throughout her career, Sarah has worked across a variety of healthcare environments, from hospital to outpatient settings, providing her with a well-rounded perspective on patient care and the sonography profession. Most recently, she served as a Senior Staff Sonographer at a breast imaging facility, where she also supported the education and development of sonography students as a clinical preceptor.

Sarah brings her passion for sonography and education into the lab, where she is committed to helping students strengthen their scanning skills, build confidence, and prepare for the expectations of the clinical environment and their future careers.