News

What's happening in Health and Human Services

Looking for the latest news from CHHS? Read on to see how Northern Arizona University is changing the face of healthcare—on campus and around the world.

How one doctoral student is helping pave the way for Indigenous researchers | The NAU Review

mtf228 | July 25, 2024

Melinda Smith is a PhD student in interdisciplinary health. Her community-based research project helps increase knowledge related to diabetes and cancer prevention… Read more

Occupational Therapy Chair, Amy Armstrong-Heimsoth, Healthcare Hero finalist

mtf228 | July 16, 2024

Dr. Armstrong-Heimsoth has been nominated for this award as she is a selfless healthcare hero at every level—educating doctoral students at Northern Arizona University’s Phoenix Bioscience Core, mentoring occupational therapy (OT) faculty, and advocating for foster children in Arizona… Read more

Indigenous Youth Health Camp | AZ Family

mtf228 | July 2, 2024

The Indigenous Youth Health Camp aims to address disparities in healthcare for Native Americans through an engaging educational experience, inspiring students to explore future health careers in Arizona… Read more

Northern Arizona University hosts first immersion lab for students in Hybrid Physical Therapy Program | AZ Daily Sun

mtf228 | June 27, 2024

Students in Northern Arizona University’s (NAU) Hybrid Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program recently visited the Flagstaff campus for its first immersion lab. They participated in hands-on exercises that simulated the work they’ll be doing in a clinical setting after graduation, which included case-based practice, labs, and examinations. … Read more

Northern Arizona University's Doctor of Physical Therapy program.

Heather Thomas named chair of NAU’s Department of Dental Hygiene

mtf228 | June 10, 2024

Northern Arizona University’s College of Health and Human Services has named Dr. Heather Thomas as chair of the Department of Dental Hygiene. … Read more

Dr. Dehn ASAPA Faculty of Excellence Award

mtf228 | June 3, 2024

Richard Dehn, was honored with the Arizona State Association of Physician Assistants (ASAPA) Faculty of Excellence Award. … Read more

A photo of physician assistants and Dr. Dehn.

NAU’s new hybrid PT program brought students from all over the country to train | AZ Family News

mtf228 | May 7, 2024

NAU’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program was featured in news coverage by Arizona Family News, highlighting how the Physical Therapy Department provides opportunities for students… Read more

A physical therapist at N A U Flagstaff campus works with students on Bosu ball and exercise strap.

How an athletic trainer found his passion on the pitch | The NAU Review

mtf228 | May 3, 2024

Enrique De La Cruz describes his passion for soccer and his experiences in NAU’s Athletic Training program… Read more

Student Feature: Sepideh (Sepi) Almasi, Occupational Therapy

mtf228 | May 2, 2024

Second-year occupational therapy student Sepideh (Sepi) Almasi arrived in the United States in 2012 and, at the time, was unable to speak English. Read on to hear how she overcame obstacles and is on her way to becoming an occupational therapist to impact the lives of immigrants and refugees. … Read more

N A U Occupational Therapy student, Sepideh (Sepi) Almasi, posing at the Grand Canyon.

Julia Gardner Award for Excellence in Teaching & Learning Recognition

mtf228 | April 23, 2024

Julia Gardner won the Award for Excellence in Teaching and Learning. We asked her about her inspiration to enter the public health field and more… Read more