Alumni Weekend

Richard Brown
D.C., LL.M, Secretary-General World Federation of Chiropractic

Keynote Speaker

Richard Brown is a 1990 graduate of AECC University College in the UK. As well having spent over 25 years in private practice, he has served as President of the British Chiropractic Association, Secretary-General of the European Chiropractors’ Union and, since 2015, he has held the office of Secretary-General of the World Federation of Chiropractic. In this role, he serves as a global ambassador and advocate for the chiropractic profession.  He retains a full practicing license in the UK and for 30 years he has run a medicolegal practice, specializing in malpractice and clinical negligence. He is the recipient of a number of honors and awards including receiving the American Chiropractic Association’s Chiropractor of the Year in 2020. As the focal point for the WFC at the World Health Organization, Prof. Brown has a particular interest in public health and believes that as primary contact health professionals, chiropractors have a duty to promote whole person health and community wellbeing. 

Brett Carnevale (D.C.’09, M.S. ‘16)

Northeast College adjunct associate professor

Dr. Brett Carnevale has over fourteen years of higher education experience teaching courses in health education, nutrition and health sciences. He has taught locally at Monroe Community College, Syracuse University, and remotely through Bryant & Stratton College and Purdue Global University. He maintains active professional affiliations with the American Chiropractic Association, New York State Chiropractic Association and the American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians. Outside of teaching at Northeast, he maintains a private practice in Clyde, N.Y.

Steven Clarke
D.C.

Speaker sponsored by ChiroPreferred

Dr. Steven Clarke has been licensed in New Jersey since 1983. A lecturer on chronic pain conditions, Dr. Clarke has been an expert witness for numerous court cases as well as speaking to the legal and medical professions. He has appeared on numerous television shows and been interviewed in the newspapers and has written many articles on healthcare and legislative issues that affect patients in New Jersey. He has treated athletes from nearly every high school and college sport, as well as many professional athletes, including several World Champion boxers. He was bestowed lifetime privileges & the highest honor from the United States Jaycees for outstanding service to the local and state level organizations. He is the police chiropractor, a member of his local Board of Health and is a lifetime member of the N.J. State Police Benevolent Association Physician’s Association. Along with two colleagues, Dr. Clarke was among the first chiropractic physicians to get through to Ground Zero in New York after the September 11, 2001 attacks and provided care to the injured police, EMS, and firefighters. Dr. Clarke is the former Chairman of the Board of the New Jersey Chiropractic Society, a current elected State Board Member of the Association of New Jersey Chiropractors (ANJC), the state chiropractic society and serves as the Legislative Chairman for the state, speaking and working with Legislators to improve healthcare for all patients throughout the state. He is also a member of the American Chiropractic Association. He has represented the entire chiropractic profession in Trenton on the Governor’s Health and Wellness Advisory Committee. 

Christoper J. Colloca
D.C., Ph.D

Speaker sponsored by Neuromechanical Innovations

Dr. Christopher Colloca received his Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise and Sports Science from Ithaca College in 1990 where he co-captained the football team, earned All-American honors, and won a Division III Football National Championship. He went on to graduate cum laude from Life College School of Chiropractic where he received his Doctor of Chiropractic degree. Over the past two decades, Chris has published over 50 scientific papers and has presented his work at a number of international scientific conferences. He is a member of the International Society for the Study of the Lumbar Spine and the North American Spine Society. In 2012 he served as a Guest Editor for a special issue on spinal manipulation in the Journal of Electromyography and Kinesiology. He is a reviewer for a number of scientific journals. In 2006 he formed the International Spine Research (INSPIRE) Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing spinal research around the world. In 2000, he founded Neuromechanical Innovations (NMI), a medical device technology company that manufactures the Neuromechanical Impulse Instruments that he co-invented. The company and its instruments are ISO 13485 Certified and UL Listed which has accommodated FDA Clearance, Health Canada Licensing, CE Marking, TGA Registration and other international certifications for its medical devices which are now in use by more than 8,000 chiropractors in nearly 50 countries throughout the world. NMI holds over thirty domestic and international patents and trademarks on its technology. Dr. Colloca has provided hundreds of postgraduate lectures to thousands of chiropractors and physicians around the world.

In 2008, Chris started a real estate development project of 103 acres near his hometown in Fair Haven, NY, that became Colloca Estate Winery. Thirty acres have been planted to vinifera varietals of Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, and Pinot Gris that have produced numerous award-winning wines scoring 95 points. The winery welcomes thousands of guests annually to visit its Tasting Room, Restaurants, and Event Center that hosts over 100 weddings and events annually.

Donald C. DeFabio (D.C. '84)
D.A.C.R.B., D.A.C.B.S.P., D.A.B.C.O.

Speaker sponsored by NCMIC

Dr. Donald C. DeFabio received his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Northeast College of Health Sciences in 1984 and currently serves as Director of Chiropractic Services at DeFabio Spine and Sports Rehab. He is triple board certified in Chiropractic Orthopedics, Physical Rehabilitation and Sports injuries as well as maintaining additional certifications as a corrective and performance enhancement specialist (NASM), Stecco Fascial Manipulation, ART, Graston, SMFA, FATKR and MUA. He was named the ACA Rehab Council’s Doctor of the Year in 2023 and the Association of New Jersey Chiropractors Doctor of the year in 2013. In 2023 he received first place, Full Time Clinician Award, from Parker University’s iPoster contest. From 1991-1999 he participated in the Ironman Triathlon World Championships in Kona as a member of the race week and race day treatment team. He was the chiropractic doctor for Drew University athletics as well as Rutgers’s Track and Field until discontinuing for health reasons in 2016. From 2001 to 2017 he served as a member of the classification panel for the International Wheelchair and Amputee Sports Federation for Wheelchair Fencing as well as being the medical coordinator for the USA Paralympic fencing team from 1999 – 2015. He is recognized as a Chiropractic influencer and lectures nationally on physical rehabilitation, active care, the thoughtful use of modalities, orthopedics, sports injury assessment and management, chiropractic technique and clinical examination techniques from a functional perspective. His Relevant Rehab courses are known to be engaging, well referenced, high energy and designed to give the clinician the tools needed to immediately implement into their practice. He is a columnist for Dynamic Chiropractic, has been published in peer reviewed scientific journals and publishes The DeFabio Difference rehab and health tips via his website and YouTube channel which has over 41K subscribers and hours of applicable content.

Jamie Forster (D.C. '85)

Speaker sponsored by Nutri-West NY

Commitment to natural healthcare runs deep in the Forster household. Jamie, a second-generation chiropractor to one of the pioneers Dr. Arnold Forster (D.C. ’60), received his first adjustment when he was just six hours old. Jamie, a dedicated chiropractor with 40 years of experience specializing in pediatrics lab analysis, and nutrition, is the owner of Forster Chiropractic LLP. The practice offers integrative healthcare at five locations throughout the New York City area. He is also the president and owner of Nutri-West NY, a supplement distribution company. He spent 13-years touring with the American punk rock band The Ramones as their chiropractor. He was bestowed the Doctor of the Year award and honorary member of SPARKS (pre-postnatal support group).

Christine Foss (D.C. ’94)
M.S., M.S.Ed, DACBSP, DACRB, ICSC

Speaker sponsored by Foot Levelers, Inc

Dr. Christine Foss has a Master’s degree in Sports Medicine from Old Dominion University, a Doctorate in Chiropractic from Northeast College of Heath Sciences (formerly NYCC), and a Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Health Sciences. She is a Certified Athletic Trainer, a Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians, a Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Rehabilitation Board, and an Internationally Certified Sports Chiropractor. She was named the 2020 American Chiropractic Association Sports Council Chiropractor of the Year and the 2023 Federation of International Sports Chiropractic Educator of the Year.

Dr. Foss has had many experiences treating and rehabilitating athletes as well as non-athletes. Co-owning and establishing the Advanced Sports Medicine & Physical Therapy Center and the Kid’s Therapy Center has been a passion. She worked in the Sports Medicine Department at the University of Notre Dame and volunteered at the Olympic Training Camps multiple times at different locations. She has worked at the World Games in Poland and Birmingham, as well as at the Bobsleigh World Championships.  She additionally traveled with TEAMUSATF as medical staff and has worked extensively with men’s and women’s gymnastics. She has additionally worked alongside prominent surgeons in caring for and rehabilitating athletic injuries.  

Dr. Foss is an international lecturer on the topics of sports injury, assessment, treatment, and kinetic chain unwinding. Dr Foss finds particular interest in difficult cases and patients who have had little success with conventional care. She is currently the director and lead instructor of the Northeast Chiropractic College “Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician” program, the Director of Education and research for Foot Levelers, and a Master Instructor for the Federation Internationale de Chiropractique du Sport.

Evan Gwilliam
D.C., M.B.A., CPC, CCPC

Speaker sponsored by NCMIC

Dr. Gwilliam, Senior Vice President of Practisync, brings a wealth of expertise to the healthcare industry. Graduating as Valedictorian from Palmer College of Chiropractic, Dr. Gwilliam holds credentials as a Certified Professional Coder, Medical Auditor, and Compliance Officer. With a unique background combining clinical experience with a Bachelor’s degree in accounting and a Master’s of Business Administration, he is widely recognized as a leading authority in his field. Dr. Gwilliam's expertise extends beyond his executive role, as he is also a sought-after seminar speaker. He shares his insights on topics ranging from healthcare compliance to documentation and coding at prominent industry events. Additionally, Dr. Gwilliam provides expert witness testimony, conducts medical record audits, and offers tailored consulting services to healthcare providers seeking to enhance their practices. He has contributed to reference books and articles for multiple publications, cementing his status as a thought leader in the healthcare community.

Steven L. Heffner
DC, Diplomate MDT, Certified in Electrodiagnostic Testing

Speaker sponsored by Aligned Modern Health

Steven Heffner is a practicing chiropractor with 40-years experience. He started his career with 14-years in private practice. 27 years ago, he earned his Diplomate in Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT), and has served as part of the MDT International Faculty for past 18 years. He became Certified to perform Electrodiagnostic Testing. His other credentials include Chiropractic Physician for UPMC Health System for 23 years, Director of Physical Medicine at Aligned Modern Health Clinics Chicago, IL for 2 years and Director of Clinical Excellence past 4 years, and Chiropractic Physician and EMG provider at Laurel Health System 4 years. His expertise is as a McKenzie method practitioner which he has been doing since 1995. He has been a member of the McKenzie International Faculty for the past 13 years as the only chiropractor. 

Fiona Jarrett-Thelwell D.C. ('94), M.S.D.I. ('12)
FACC, EMT
Full-Professor, Clinical Sciences Department Chair (Radiology, Assessment, Diagnosis)

Dr. F. Jarrett-Thelwell has over 20 years of higher education experience teaching courses in radiology, General Diagnosis, and emergency procedures.  She completed her Master of Diagnostic Imaging at Northeast, with honors. She remains active in the settings of chiropractic clinical practice, delivering courses as a certified American Heart Association instructor, and emergency medicine. Some of her professional affiliations are Chairperson of the NYS board for Chiropractic, NY State Chiropractic Board Voting Delegate for the NBCE, ACC RAC Peer-Reviewer, executive board member of emergency medical services, Wayne County Critical Incident Stress Management Team, NYS EMS Examiner, and member of the regional emergency medical advisory committee.  

Georgia Nab
D.C., M.S.HNFM, IFMCP, CNS

Speaker sponsored by NCMIC

A 1994 graduate of Cleveland Chiropractic College Kansas City campus in Overland Park, Kan., Dr. Georgia Nab owned a chiropractic clinic in Wichita, Kan., before joining a manufacturing facility in Wisconsin from 2012 through 2017. Dr. Nab provides chiropractic care, nutritional counseling and educational training to the employees at the company’s corporate headquarters. While there, Dr. Nab authored “1 Degree of Change” as well as numerous other publications.

Dr. Nab is a 2015 graduate from the University of Western States with a Master in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine degree. She is currently an adjunct professor at the University of Western States for their masters program. Dr. Nab is a Certified Nutrition Specialist from the Board for Nutrition Specialist and works with Affiliated Monitors, an independent monitoring company for professionals. Additionally, Dr. Nab is a certified practitioner with the Institute of Functional Medicine (IFMP).

With 30 years of practice experience, Dr. Nab currently owns Authentic Life in Shawnee KS., a clinic that focuses on functional medicine, genetics, nutrition and chiropractic with emphasis on autoimmune and metabolic conditions. Dr. Nab also writes and speaks on health topics around functional medicine, genetics, nutrition, chiropractic and lifestyle.

Sarah Tirimacco, D.C. ('14)

Speaker sponsored by NYSCA

Dr. Sarah Tirimacco graduated in 2014 with her Doctorate from Northeast College of Health Sciences (NYCC). She is a dedicated and experienced chiropractor with a passion for women’s health and extensive knowledge of prenatal and postpartum complaints, including pain management, pelvic floor dysfunction, rehabilitation and athletics. In addition, she is a dynamic and results-driven professional with significant experience in business development and practice management. She is the owner of ChiroClarity performing business consulting for chiropractic practice owners, associate doctors, and recent graduates. She also co-owns Pinnacle Hill Chiropractic in Rochester NY, providing high quality chiropractic care to patients. Dr. Tirimacco is currently working toward earning her Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA) through the Quantic School of Business and Technology (Anticipated Graduation: May 2025). She is a member of the ACA, ICPA, and NYSCA. In her community, Dr. Sarah serves as a Board Member & Chair of the Gift Giving Committee for the non-for-profit Dreams From Drake, providing local children and teens with various forms of support needed to move forward while experiencing the confusion and grief associated with the loss of a sibling or parent.

Keita Vanterpool
D.C.

Speaker sponsored by Women Chiropractors

Dr. Keita Vanterpool, a pioneering figure in chiropractic care, has made history as the first African American woman in 96 years to serve as Vice President of the FCLB and as one of the Directors on the NBCE. Her expertise spans health, wellness, and diversity, making her a sought-after speaker at esteemed institutions, where she addresses critical topics such as diversity, equity, and inclusion, alongside practical strategies for wellness. Additionally, Dr. Vanterpool extends her impact by teaching Continuing Education (CE) courses, enriching the profession with her knowledge and experience. Through her company, CHIROKEI Consulting, LLC, she empowers communities with holistic health programs and initiatives, including those tailored for seniors. Engaging with regulatory bodies and professional associations, Dr. Vanterpool advocates for diversity and excellence in chiropractic care, leaving a lasting mark on the profession.

Thomas R. Ventimiglia (D.C. '80)
FACC(h)

Speaker sponsored by NCMIC

Dr. Ventimiglia earned his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Northeast College of Health Sciences (NYCC). He served as the College’s Dean of Postgraduate and Continuing Education until his retirement in 2019. He is currently a member of the American Public Health Association, Chiropractic Health Care Section and chairs the Section’s Online Education Committee. He is a speaker for NCMIC and lectures  both nationally and internationally on Patient Communication, Motivational Interviewing, Cultural Awareness, and Wellness. Finally, he is a member of the Internation Federation of Sports Chiropractors, Education Committee.

Robyn Wakefield-Murphy
Ph.D
Northeast College assistant professor

Dr. Robyn Wakefield-Murphy is an assistant professor of anatomy at Northeast College of Health Sciences. Her research focus is biological anthropology, specifically focused on population health in the past. She received her Ph.D. from the University of Pittsburgh and her Master of Science with honors in human osteology and funerary archaeology from the University of Sheffield, UK. For over 10 years, Wakefield-Murphy has given multiple research conference presentations. She has active memberships in both the American Association of Physical Anthropologists and Paleopathology Association.

Ronald J. Wellikoff (D.C. '76)
FICC

Dr. Ronald Wellikoff graduated from Northeast College of Health Sciences (Columbia Institute of Chiropractic) in 1976. He has completed course work in Orthopedics from National College of Chiropractic and Industrial Consulting from Northwestern College of Chiropractic.  His postgraduate studies also include Primary Care Othopedics, Rehabilitation, and Neurology for the Non-Neurologist from Harvard Medical School/Department of Continuing Education.  Additional postgraduate studies include Disability and Impairment Evaluation from the University of Michigan/National Association of Disability Evaluating Physicians (NADEP).  He has also completed and taught the State of Florida Workers’ Compensation Certification Course.

Dr. Wellikoff formerly served as the president of the Florida Chiropractic Association and former Chairman of the Board of the Florida Board of Chiropractic Medicine and the Broward County Chiropractic Society.  He was named Chiropractor of the Year, twice each, for the Florida Chiropractic Association and the Broward County Chiropractic Society.

Dr. Wellikoff lectures on the subjects of Documentation, Recordkeeping, Coding, Florida Laws and Rules, Ethics, Risk Management and Prevention of Medical Errors.  He is also the author of a workbook covering these subjects, entitled “An Overview”, A Guide to Office Coding, Office Procedure and Documentation.

Michelle Wendling
D.C.

Speaker sponsored by Women Chiropractors

Dr. Michelle Wendling was elected President of Women Chiropractors in 2021 and served for 2 years.  She continues to serve on the WDC board to the present.  Served 8 years on the Colorado Chiropractic Examiners Board. Dr. Michelle built her referral based, cash practice from scratch and enjoyed practicing for 15 years in Denver, Colorado. In addition to practicing, volunteering and teaching, Dr. Michelle has been coaching chiropractors since 2009. She has over 30 years’ experience working on the human body and running her own businesses. Her specialty is teaching on patient education, business systems, documentation and adjusting topics.   

Alesha Willis
D.C., M.S.

Speaker sponsored by Active Release Techniques

Having begun her career as a massage therapist in 2001, Dr. Willis later expanded on her experience to pursue chiropractic studies, graduating Cum Laude as a DC in 2011. During her time in chiropractic school, she became certified in ART and achieved full-body certification by the time of her graduation. Dr. Willis has since worked with athletes of varying levels, from juniors to professionals, across a range of sports disciplines. She is also certified in SFMA Level 1 and 2, and holds a CrossFit Level 1 training certificate. As a member of the ACA, ACA Sports, and FICS organizations, Dr. Willis continues to develop her skills and knowledge in the field of sports medicine.

Michael P. Zumpano, (D.C. ’06)
 Ph.D.
Professor and chair, Foundational Sciences, Northeast College
Director, Anatomical Gift Program and Anatomy Center

Dr. Michael Zumpano is an internationally renowned comparative anatomist with several publications in craniofacial growth and comparative anatomy. One of his publications is referenced in Gray’s Anatomy demonstrating a myodural bridge between rectus capitis posterior minor and the posterior atlanto-occipital membrance. He has maintained a private chiropractic practice since 2006. Zumpano graduated from Northeast College of Health Sciences and has taught gross anatomy for the College since 1999. He is the Director of the Anatomical Gift Program and Anatomy Center at the College and is a member of the NYS Regents State Board of Chiropractic.