About Doane University

Debora Sepich is an entrepreneur and educator who has spent the past 15 years bridging the gap between business and academia. With an EdD and MBA from Doane University, she brings practical business experience to online education. Sepich founded Dolphin Software, an environmental health and safety software company serving pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, and other regulated industries. Her company focused on protecting people and the planet while maintaining sustainable profits. Now, as an educator, Sepich combines her entrepreneurial background with online teaching methods to provide students with real-world business insights. Her goal is to blend applied business knowledge with innovative educational approaches, preparing students for the evolving demands of the modern workplace.

Dr. Amanda McKinney is a physician and instructor at Doane University who specializes in Lifestyle Medicine and its connections to environmental health. As a Fellow and Board Member of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, she advocates for transforming medical education and healthcare delivery to focus on creating healthy, resilient communities through sustainable food systems and lifestyle changes.

Steve St. Onge, PharmD, MBA, BCPS is an instructor at Doane University specializing in pharmacology education. He holds a Doctor of Pharmacy degree, an MBA, and is board certified in pharmacotherapy. St. Onge teaches the "Introduction to Pharmacology" course offered through Doane University's Open Learning Academy. This online course explores the mechanisms of action of pharmaceutical drugs at the molecular level and covers fundamental principles of pharmacology including pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, drug development, major drug classes, and dosage calculations. As an educator, St. Onge aims to provide students with a strong foundation in pharmacology to prepare them for careers in healthcare and medicine. His teaching combines his clinical pharmacy expertise with business acumen to deliver practical, industry-relevant pharmacology education.

Dr. David Kays is an adjunct instructor in the Psychology department at Doane University. He holds a PsyD in clinical psychology and is a licensed clinical psychologist in Oregon. Dr. Kays has been teaching psychology courses since 2015, bringing his clinical expertise into the classroom.

Dr. Michael Kangas is a researcher at Doane University specializing in the analysis of colorimetric sensor arrays. He earned his bachelor's degree in chemistry from Carthage College in 2004 and his Ph.D. in inorganic chemistry from Louisiana State University in 2012, where his solid state chemistry research resulted in 16 scientific publications.

Dan Ricker, a Territory Sales Manager for Rx Green Technologies covering California, brings a unique blend of academic expertise and industry experience to the cannabis sector. With a Master's in Horticulture and a B.S. in Agronomy from Virginia Tech, Ricker oversees more than 2 million square feet of cannabis canopy, specializing in all facets of cannabis cultivation and operations to produce high-quality, sustainable products. He leverages this comprehensive knowledge as an instructor at Doane University, teaching courses on cannabis cultivation and processing as part of the "Cannabis Science and Industries: Seeds to Needs" Professional Certificate program. Through his dual roles in industry and education, Ricker aims to bridge the gap between traditional agronomy and the emerging cannabis industry, providing students with practical, cutting-edge knowledge in cannabis cultivation techniques, processing methods, and industry best practices.

Jazmin Oliver is a Scientist and Research and Development Chemist at Cannabis Science Consultants, LLC. She brings a diverse scientific background to her work in the hemp and cannabis industry. Oliver earned a Bachelor's degree in Interdisciplinary Studies focused on Medicine and Public Health from the University of North Florida and pursued graduate medical studies at Saint James School of Medicine in Anguilla.

Dr. Andrea Holmes is a multifaceted expert in cannabis science, serving as both a Professor of Chemistry at Doane University and Chief Growth Officer at Precision Plant Molecules. Her work spans academic research, industry innovation, and cannabis education. At Doane, Holmes teaches organic chemistry with a focus on cannabis applications and has been instrumental in developing the university's cannabis studies program. Her industry experience includes developing innovative testing methods and technologies at AgriScience Labs, a certified marijuana-testing facility. As Chief Growth Officer at Precision Plant Molecules, she leads research into THC-free cannabis products and novel minor cannabinoids. Holmes is renowned for her work on colorimetric sensors for cannabis compound detection and quantification. Through her diverse roles, she aims to advance cannabis science, improve product safety and efficacy, and educate future cannabis researchers and industry professionals, bridging the gap between academic research and commercial applications in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry.

Arinna Butler Roxa is an Adjunct Faculty member at Doane University, bringing her expertise in mathematics and business to higher education. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Mathematics from Creighton University in 2003 and an MBA from Bellevue University in 2010. Roxa is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration at Bellevue University, further expanding her academic credentials.

Dr. Alec Engebretson is a Professor of Computing at Doane University, where he has been teaching since 1990. With extensive experience in software development education, Engebretson considers himself an educator first, with a particular aptitude for computing. He focuses on applying effective learning practices in his teaching

Dr. Mark Meysenburg, a Professor of Computing at Doane University since 1998, brings a wealth of experience to his teaching role. With expertise in programming, data structures, algorithms, computer networking, and software engineering, he covers a broad spectrum of computer science topics. His diverse research interests, including computer vision, evolutionary computation, machine learning, robotics, simulation, and 3D graphics, inform his cutting-edge approach to education. Meysenburg's background spans academia and industry, including teaching stints at Metropolitan Community College and Minot State University, work as a software test engineer at SAFECO Insurance, and service as a U.S. Air Force officer. He holds a computer science degree from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology and completed graduate work in evolutionary computation at the University of Idaho. Beyond his professional pursuits, Meysenburg's interests in gaming, home brewing, ATA Taekwondo, and B-movies contribute to his well-rounded perspective, enabling him to connect theoretical concepts with real-world applications in his teaching

Dr. Jody Woodworth brings a diverse and multifaceted background to her role as an educator and administrator at Doane University. Her career journey began in healthcare, earning degrees in Nuclear Medicine Technology from the University of Nebraska Medical Center and working for nine years as a Lead Nuclear Cardiac Technologist. Woodworth then pivoted to economics, obtaining a Master's Degree from the University of Nebraska at Omaha and working as a Project Analyst. In 2009, she completed her Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln, transitioning to a career in higher education where she has served as both professor and administrator for the past 18 years. This unique combination of experiences in healthcare, economics, and education administration allows Woodworth to bring a broad perspective to her teaching and leadership roles, connecting theoretical concepts with real-world applications across multiple disciplines and enriching the educational experience for her students at Doane University.

Dr. Helen Abdali Soosan Fagan is a multifaceted expert in leadership and diversity, combining academic roles with global consulting work. Holding a Ph.D. in Human Sciences with an emphasis on Leadership and having studied International Economics at Oxford University, she serves as the Principal and Founder of Global Leadership Group, a Lecturer at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and a Developing Leaders coach at Doane University. Dr. Fagan's expertise is evidenced by her numerous certifications in diversity training, intercultural development, and emotional intelligence. Her international experience includes faculty work with the Qatar Institute for Intercultural Communication, conducting workshops across six U.S. universities in Qatar. Dr. Fagan's passion for developing inclusive leaders has led to speaking engagements across multiple nations and continents. By bridging theoretical knowledge with practical application, she aims to foster inclusive leadership in diverse global contexts, positioning herself as a valuable resource for organizations navigating the complexities of global leadership in diverse environments.

Susan Sapp, JD, is an instructor at Doane University with a diverse legal background spanning multiple areas of civil litigation. Her general practice encompasses labor and employment issues, medical and legal malpractice defense, and insurance defense, representing clients such as school districts, hospitals, doctors, employers, and insurance companies. Sapp's expertise extends to all aspects of adoption proceedings, and she also serves as a mediator in personal injury and employment cases. Licensed to practice in Nebraska and Iowa, as well as admitted to the United States District Court for the District of Nebraska and the United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit, Sapp brings a broad range of legal experience to her role at Doane University. Through her teaching, she bridges the gap between academic legal education and real-world practice, providing students with valuable insights into various aspects of civil litigation and alternative dispute resolution methods. Her multifaceted legal career enriches the educational experience, preparing students for the complexities of modern legal practice.

Nicholas King is a healthcare technology professional at Cerner Corporation, specializing in implementing fetal monitoring interfaces globally. With a Master's in Health Informatics from the University of Missouri, Columbia, and an undergraduate degree in Management Information Systems, King combines his expertise in technology with a passion for improving healthcare delivery. His role at Cerner has provided him with extensive international experience, working on projects in diverse regions including the UAE, UK, Ireland, and Australia. This global exposure has given King valuable insights into different healthcare systems and practices worldwide, allowing him to compare and learn from various approaches to healthcare delivery. As an instructor at Doane University, King likely brings his real-world experience to the classroom, offering students practical insights into the intersection of IT and global health systems. His unique position bridging technology and healthcare enables him to contribute significantly to both fields, working towards improving patient care through innovative technological solutions.

Diane Dunlop is an agricultural economist and passionate educator at Dalhousie University, with a remarkable 27-year teaching career. Her dedication to education is driven by a deep-seated passion for inspiring inquiring minds and helping students surpass their perceived limitations. As an agricultural economist, Dunlop likely brings real-world insights and practical applications to her courses, enriching students' understanding of economic principles and challenges in the agricultural sector. Her extensive teaching experience enables her to adapt her methods to connect with and motivate diverse groups of students effectively. Through her long-standing commitment to education in agricultural economics, Dunlop aims to prepare the next generation of professionals to address complex economic issues facing the agricultural industry. Her unwavering dedication to inspiring students reflects her belief in the transformative power of education to shape both individual lives and the broader field of agricultural economics.

Kelsey Pruss is a multifaceted wellness professional serving as the Program Manager at Doane University's Institute for Human and Planetary Health (IHPH). With a Master's of Science degree in Nutrition and Health Sciences and ACSM certification as a personal trainer, Pruss brings diverse expertise in wellness-lifestyle medicine coordination, health coaching, group fitness instruction, and personal training to her role. As Program Director of IHPH, she develops initiatives addressing both human and environmental health. Pruss teaches "Applying Health Coaching in Patient Care" at Doane, leveraging her practical experience to educate students on effective health coaching techniques. Her career focuses on improving human health through lifestyle modifications, emphasizing nutrition and behavior change to create healthy, resilient individuals. Pruss believes that fostering a global culture of healthy lifestyles can positively impact both human and planetary health, reflecting a holistic approach to wellness. Through her various roles in education, program management, and direct client work, Pruss bridges the gap between health science knowledge and practical lifestyle changes, contributing to the broader goals of lifestyle medicine and sustainable health practices

Dr. Jared Cook is an Assistant Professor of Leadership and Chair of the Leadership Department in the College of Business at Doane University. Since joining Doane in 2019, Cook has primarily taught in the Leadership Studies and Master of Arts in Leadership programs, drawing on his Ed.D. from the University of South Dakota and M.S. in Education from Fort Hays State University. His research focuses on adult learning, educational simulations, and civic engagement, areas in which he has published several refereed articles and co-authored a book on post-traditional learning. Cook has been instrumental in developing innovative programs at Doane, including the MicroMasters in Strategic Leadership & Communication, an online microcredential program offered through DoaneX. This program exemplifies Cook's commitment to making leadership education more accessible and applicable to diverse learners. Through his multifaceted approach to teaching, research, and program development, Cook strives to bridge academic theory with practical skills, preparing students for the dynamic challenges of modern leadership roles while promoting civic engagement and lifelong learning.

Dr. Tiffany Shonerd, a Visiting Assistant Professor of Leadership at Doane University, brings a diverse background in educational leadership and instructional design to her role. With a recently completed Doctorate of Educational Leadership from the University of South Dakota (May 2024), an Education Specialist degree (2023), and a Master's in Instructional Design and Development from Bellevue University, Shonerd's academic journey reflects her commitment to educational excellence. Her research focuses on critical thinking and assessments in higher education, with her doctoral dissertation exploring the alignment between student and AI-generated definitions of critical thinking. Shonerd's teaching experience spans from early childhood education to adult learning, including her current role advising public school administrators and teachers through a leadership capstone project in partnership with the Nebraska Department of Education. As a School Board Member, she further demonstrates her dedication to educational leadership at multiple levels. Through her multifaceted approach to research, teaching, and leadership, Shonerd aims to advance understanding of critical thinking assessment in higher education, particularly in the context of emerging technologies, while bridging the gap between theoretical frameworks and practical applications in educational leadership.