Dr. Peggy R. Trueblood, PT, PhD
Professor and Program Director
Dr. Peggy Trueblood is the Program Director for the School of Physical Therapy at Pacific Northwest University. Dr. Trueblood received her PhD in Physiological Sciences from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She has taught and conducted research in the area of neuroscience for over 35 years. She has presented her work both nationally and internationally. Dr. Trueblood continues to conduct clinical research with interests in helping reduce falls for older adults and enhancing gait and balance for people with neurological impairments such as Parkinson’s Disease and Stroke.
Dr. Amanda Adamson, PT, DPT, OCS, CAPP-Pelvic
Assistant Professor and Director of Clinical Education
Dr. Amanda Adamson is an Assistant Professor and the Director of Clinical Education at Pacific Northwest University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program. Dr. Adamson graduated from the University of South Dakota (USD) with a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 2009. She became a Board Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist in 2013, an American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Credentialed Clinical Instructor in 2017 and received an APTA Academy of Pelvic Health Certificate of Achievement in Pelvic Physical Therapy in 2018. Dr. Adamson has clinical experience in private practice, skilled rehab, acute inpatient, and outpatient settings in rural South Dakota. She continues to practice in a rural community in orthopedics/pelvic health. A passion of hers is organizing collective giving for non-profit organizations.
Dr. Rachael Arabian, PT, DPT, NCS, CLWT
Assistant Professor
Dr. Rachael Arabian is an Assistant Professor at Pacific Northwest University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program. Dr. Arabian is a United States Army Combat Veteran and Jumpmaster. She received her Doctor of Physical Therapy from Methodist University in Fayetteville, North Carolina shortly after leaving active-duty service. Dr. Arabian is a graduate of the Johns Hopkins Hospital Neurologic Physical Therapy Residency Program and is neurologic board-certified clinical specialist. She has presented at various international and national conferences on the management of vestibular patients in the acute care and emergency room clinical settings. Dr. Arabian is also certified in lymphedema and wound care, specializing in management of acute vascular lymphedema disorders. Dr. Arabian enjoys various physical activities to include mountaineering, hiking, running and yoga.
Dr. Steven Bitticker, PT, PhD
Professor
Dr. Steve Bitticker, PT, PhD is a Professor at Pacific Northwest University and plays a vital role in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program. Originally from Virginia, he embarked on a journey in academia and brought a wealth of experience to PNWU. Dr. Bitticker started his educational journey by earning a bachelor’s degree in physical therapy at The Ohio State University He furthered his academic pursuits by completing a PhD in Organizational Learning and Leadership from Gannon University. Dr. Bitticker brings with him an impressive 17 years of teaching experience. He has taught various courses, including Human Gross Anatomy lecture and lab as well as Critical Inquiry and Administration and Management Courses. Additionally, he explores the impact of values, ethics and professionalism on the behavior of physical therapists. Dr. Bitticker enjoys motorcycle touring, downhill and cross-country skilling, backpacking, vehicle restoration and visiting family.
Dr. Michael Blizniak, PT, DPT, OCS, COMT, CSCS
Assistant Professor
Dr. Michael Blizniak is an Assistant Professor at Pacific Northwest University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program. He attended Ithaca College, where he completed a direct entry DPT program completing his undergraduate degree in Clinical Science in 2009 and his DPT degree in 2010. Currently, Dr. Blizniak is enrolled in a Health Sciences PhD program at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. He began clinical practice in 2011 and has pursued several post-graduate certifications in orthopedics and manual therapy. Outside of PNWU, Dr. Blizniak enjoys spending time with his wife, family, and friends outside in the great pacific northwest.
Dr. Brad Callan PT, PhD, OCS, FAAOMPT
Assistant Professor
Dr. Brad Callan is an Assistant Professor at Pacific Northwest University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program. He comes to PNWU after working primarily in an outpatient setting for over 20 years in both urban and rural environments with a primary focus on back and neck pain. Over the years, he has managed patient care with a variety of techniques such as manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, and patient education to help patients achieve their goals. Dr. Callan earned a bachelor’s degree in exercise science from Montana State University and a Master of Science in physical therapy from the University of Montana. In addition, he completed a PhD from Nova Southeastern University with a dissertation that explored the prognosis of chronic symptoms following a whiplash injury. He is also board certified in orthopedics through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialists along with completing a fellowship through the American Academy of Orthopedic Manual Therapy.
Dr. Callan’s research interests include the evaluation and management of whiplash injuries as well as the influence of the central nervous system on prolonged symptoms.
Dr. Katie June, PT, DPT, CCS
Assistant Professor
Dr. Katie June is an Assistant Professor at Pacific Northwest University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy Program. She earned her undergraduate degrees in Spanish and Exercise Science at the University of Alabama and her Doctor of physical Therapy from Mercer University. Dr. June is currently enrolled in the PhD program through Texas Women’s University School of Physical Therapy. She is a board-certified specialist in cardiovascular and pulmonary physical therapy. Her clinical practice has been focused on the acute care setting, primarily in the ICU and emergency department. Dr. June’s research interests include heart failure, rural cardiovascular care, mechanical circulatory support and acute care clinical education. In her spare time, Dr. June enjoys hiking and backpacking with her husband, yoga, biking and trail running.
Dr. Jennifer Fleckenstein PT, DPT, SCS, DHSci
Assistant Professor
Dr. Jennifer Fleckenstein is an Assistant Professor at Pacific Northwest University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Johns Hopkins University and graduated with her DPT degree in 2010 from Columbia University. Currently, Dr. Fleckenstein is enrolled in a Doctor of Science program at Pacific University with a focus in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). She is also board certified in sports physical therapy through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialists after having completed a sports residency program in 2011. Dr. Fleckenstein has over 12 years of outpatient orthopedic and sports physical therapy experience. Dr. Fleckenstein’s research interests include evaluation and management of non-arthritic, intra-articular hip pain as well as best practices for DEI in DPT education. Outside of PNWU, Dr. Fleckenstein enjoys spending time with her husband cooking, hiking, mountain biking, skiing, and camping.
Dr. Tiffany Salido, PT, DPT, PhD, GCS
Assistant Professor
Dr. Tiffany Salido is an Assistant Professor at Pacific Northwest University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program. Dr. Salido earned her PhD at Wake Forest University in Medical Engineering and her DPT from Western Carolina University. Prior to coming to PNWU, she owned and directed an innovative physical therapy-based wellness studio for older adults with musculoskeletal or neurological-based movement impairments. Dr. Salido is a board-certified Geriatric Clinical Specialist, NSCA Certified Special Population Specialist, PWR!Moves Certified Therapist (Parkinson’s), holds a Certificate in Vestibular Rehabilitation and is a Certified Myofascial Trigger Point Therapist. Dr. Salido’s current research interests are physical therapy-based wellness programs, group physical therapy, and strength training in older adults and people with neurological disorders. She is new to the pacific northwest and enjoys home renovation, exploring with her family and 2 dogs, and is even contemplating learning to ski.
Dr. Antonio Vintimilla, PT, DPT, PhD
Assistant Professor
Dr. Antonio Vintimilla is an Assistant Professor at Pacific Northwest University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program. Dr. Vintimilla is originally from Cuenca, Ecuador and immigrated to Fort Worth, TX as a child. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology/Exercise Science at the University of Texas at Austin and his Doctor of Physical Therapy at Texas Tech University Health Science Center (TTUHSC). Dr. Vintimilla’s clinical expertise primarily involves inpatient neurorehabilitation including stroke, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson’s disease and vestibular rehabilitation. In addition, Dr. Vintimilla completed his PhD in Rehabilitation Sciences with an emphasis on sensorimotor control and biomechanics at TTUHSC. Dr. Vintimilla’s research interests involve fatigue, concussion, and the cervical spine. Outside of PNWU, Dr. Vintimilla enjoys spending time with friends, family and his puppies, hiking, snowboarding and playing soccer.
Dr. Christian Datoon, PT, DPT
Associated Faculty
Dr. Christian Datoon is an Associated Professor at the Pacific Northwest University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy Program. He received his transitional – DPT degree at Evidence in Motion and is currently working as a Clinical Supervisor at Multi-care Memorial Hospital. He was born and raised in the Philippines where he finished his Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy at the Universidad de Manila. He served as a full-time faculty staff and a Clinical Instructor providing pro-bono physical therapy services in the community. He has 20+ years of experience working with the geriatric population in Acute Care, Home Health, and SNF settings. He is an APTA-credentialed Clinical Instructor and a Certified Geriatric Clinical Specialist in 2011. He has reached some local community groups and provided education related to the management of various geriatric-related conditions. He is passionate about promoting a healthy community to improve quality of life. During his personal time, he enjoys outdoor adventures and loves to travel to different countries to experience food, people, and culture.
Dr. Lynn Freeman, PT, DPT, PhD, CWS, CCRP
Associated Faculty
Dr. Lynn Freeman, PT, PhD, DPT, CWS, CCRP, Is an Associated Professor at Pacific Northwest University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy Program. He earned a bachelor’s degree in physical therapy from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center and a Master of Science in Health Sciences from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions. The culmination of his academic pursuits includes a PhD and a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from Nova Southwestern University. Dr. Freeman’s expertise is recognized through his board certification as a Geriatric Clinical Specialist by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialists. With over 25 years of clinical experience, Dr. Freeman brings a wealth of practical knowledge to his academic role. In addition to his professional achievements, he enjoys an active lifestyle, finding pleasure in hiking, cycling, running, kayaking, and travel.
Dr. Sarah Lewis, PT, MSPT, PCS
Associated Faculty
Dr. Lewis is Associated Faculty at Pacific Northwest University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program She obtained her undergrad at Pacific Lutheran University, with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. Dr. Lewis went on to earn her Master of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Washington. She is an APTA credentialed Clinical Instructor and is as board certified Pediatric Clinical Specialist. Dr. Lewis provides comprehensive, evidence-based, and family-centered care of infants and children to maximize function and participation.
Dr. Charles Martin, PT, DPT
Associated Faculty
Dr. Martin is Associated Faculty at Pacific Northwest University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program. He obtained his bachelor’s degree in physical therapy from the University of Utah and his doctoral degree from Des Moines University. He has a variety of work experiences. He began his career working in a long-term care facility treating both in and outpatients. He next worked at a rural, 32-bed hospital treating both in and out-patients. Upon accepting the position as the Director of Physical and Occupational Therapy Services at Yakima Valley Memorial Hospital, Dr. Martin moved to Yakima. He and a business partner started Cascade Summit Physical Therapy Which they operated for over twenty years. Dr. Martin continues in clinic practice, he treats sports and orthopedic injuries. He also works in return-to-work programs, aquatic therapy, and chronic pain programs. In 2001 he was selected as Washington State’s Physical Therapist of the Year. Chuck enjoys mountain climbing, hiking, backpacking, snowboarding, scuba diving, water skiing, wakeboarding, and long motorcycle rides.
Dr. Angie Meloy, PT, DPT
Associated Faculty
Dr. Angie Meloy, PT, DPT is an Associated Professor at Pacific Northwest University and brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the field of Physical Therapy. She earned her bachelor’s degree in physical therapy from Eastern Washington University, where she laid the foundation for her passion in promoting health and wellness through movement. Driven by a commitment to advancing her understanding of the field, Dr. Meloy pursued a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the prestigious University of Montana. She has over 20 years of experience.
Currently, Dr. Meloy holds a pivotal role as an Associate Faculty, actively contributing to the academic environment in our Center for Applied Movement Science Lab. She is certified in Lymphedema Therapy and is currently pursuing Board Certification in Geriatrics through APTA. Dr. Meloy enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and pets.
Dr. Jennifer Sloop More, PT, DPT
Associated Faculty
Dr. Jenny Sloop Moore is an associate faculty at PNWU’s Physical Therapy program. She grew up in Yakima and returned to the valley in 2022. She earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Loma Linda University in 2014 and has worked extensively in the outpatient neurological rehab setting with both adults and pediatrics. She enjoys working with patients post-stroke, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury and other neurological disorders as well as with patients requiring vestibular rehabilitation. Dr. Sloop Moore is a Neurodevelopmental Treatment certified therapist, a certified Gait Coach for the EKSObionics robotic exoskeleton, and an APTA Credentialed Clinical Instructor. She is currently working at Cascade Summit Physical Therapy and has a passion for the underserved neurological population in the Yakima Valley. She also enjoys spending time with her husband and two young boys, mountain biking, hiking, mountaineering, cross country skiing and gardening.
Dr. Rosio Vargas-Negri, PT, DPT
Associated Faculty
Dr. Rosio Vargas-Negri is an Associated Faculty at Pacific Northwest University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program. She was born and raised in the Yakima Valley. She earned both her B.S. in Biology and Doctor of Physical Therapy degrees from Eastern Washington University. Since graduating in 2016, Rosio has been practicing in Yakima. She has worked primarily in Outpatient settings but, has also worked in in-patient rehab and acute care which gave her added experience working with Neurological conditions and early post-op populations. Dr. Vargas-Negri is currently working at Cascade Summit Physical Therapy. She enjoys working with Neurological conditions, and complex cases with multiple diagnoses. She is one of the handful of therapists in the area that treat neurological conditions. She also has experience with return-to-work programs, aquatic therapy, and chronic pain programs. Dr. Vargas-Negri is fluent in Spanish and enjoys serving the Spanish-speaking population in the area providing them someone they can communicate with directly. In her personal life, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, visiting museums, and traveling.
Dr. Noriko Yamaguchi, PT, DPT, GCS
Associated Faculty
Dr. Noriko Yamaguchi, PT, DPT is Associated Faculty at Pacific Northwest University’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program. Dr. Yamaguchi earned her Doctor of Physical Therapy at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles. She is a board-certified geriatric physical therapist and a certified strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS) through the National Strength & Conditioning Association (NSCA). She spends her clinical time at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) working with patients with complex and chronic medical conditions, including oncology, long COVID, autoimmune conditions, dysautonomia, mast cell activation syndrome, and connective tissue disorders. Dr. Yamaguchi’s research interests currently center around community public health and environmental physical therapy, but she has presented regionally on long COVID rehabilitation and nationally on the application of Universal Design for Learning and an equity framework in physical therapy education. She brings a planetary health justice, anti-racist, and trauma-informed mindset into her teaching, patient care, and research. When she is not busy with Physical Therapy, Dr. Yamaguchi enjoys reading, visiting Hawaii and Japan, making and eating good food, and spending time outside.