Archives: Bios

Unity Care NW service bios.

Mark Brooks, DDS

I have worked in community health dentistry for over 25 years. I enjoy providing quality dentistry to people in our community.

I graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University / Medical College of Virginia. I was able to complete a general practice residency at the University of Utah. I worked for the Indian Health Service and for Sea-Mar Community Health Center.

I started working at Unity Care NW in May 2020, at the North Whatcom Health Center facility.

Lisa Nelson, PharmD, RPh

I received my Doctor of Pharmacy from Washington State University, where I also earned my Bachelor of Science in Biology. After graduating, I began practicing community pharmacy before finding my calling in community health. I’m an active member of the National Association of Community Health Centers serving as co-chair of NACHC’s 340B Workgroup, a member of NACHC’s Pharmacy Policy & Operations Subcommittee, Clinical Practice, Legislative, and Health Policy Committees; a 340B Apexus Certified Expert (ACE), and serve as a member of Apexus 340B FQHC Council and peer faculty for Apexus 340B University; and president-elect of Washington State Pharmacy Association. In my free time, I enjoy reading and spending time with family enjoying all the scenery and activity the Pacific Northwest has to offer.

Jodi Joyce

Jodi Joyce joined Unity Care NW in 2020. Jodi began her career as a neonatal intensive care unit nurse and has over 30 years of healthcare leadership experience. Most of her prior roles included responsibility for Quality Improvement & Patient Safety in large healthcare systems, and many of her teams have gained national recognition for achieving and sustaining large improvements in patient health and wellness. Jodi earned a bachelor’s degree at Wheaton College (IL), her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Northwestern University, and her Master’s in Business Administration at Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business. Jodi feels incredibly honored and proud to be a part of UCNW’s efforts to increase the years of healthy life for our patients and our entire Whatcom County community.

Ashley Carter, LMHC

I find my work to be a privilege in partnering with those who seek to grow and further explore their lives.  I strive to provide a safe place for individuals to expand their health, resilience and well-being while identifying the change they desire in their lives.

I received a Bachelor’s of Psychology from Kent State University and Master’s of Counseling from Walden University.  I have 10 years of experience utilizing evidenced based practice in community behavioral health services in a variety of roles.

My favorite part about working in community health is being a part of a team that can create positive life changes that impact the greater whole.

Michael-Ann Cooley, RPh

I joined Unity Care NW in June 2019.  I received my Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from the Oregon State University College of Pharmacy.  I have multiple years of experience in retail and clinical pharmacy settings, and am looking forward to advancing further into the clinical setting.   I have my Immunization Provider Certificate, and received training in emergency contraception through the Washington State Pharmacy Association.

I like to be able to offer accessible health care to all, and also enjoy working as a team to improve the health of our community.

Jonathan Henry, DMD

I joined Unity Care NW in April 2019.

I graduated from the School of Dental Medicine at the University of Pittsbugh in 2011 with my DMD. I received my bachelor’s degree in cell biology from Western Washington University, where I also played on the football team.

Since I earned my degree, I have worked as a general dentist in Bellingham, both in private practice and community health.  I am passionate about using my talents and skills to help serve the people in Whatcom County and achieve optimal oral health, especially for low-income families.   I enjoy helping patients become comfortable with going to the dentist!

Dr. Vince Foster

Dr. Vince Foster is grateful to have the opportunity to serve on the Unity Care NW Board of Directors, having previously served as an Employee Assistance Program provider to UCNW employees.  He and his wife have lived in Bellingham for over 25 years.

He is a semi-retired psychologist with a Masters in Addiction Counseling. His professional background includes over 40 years in health care as a mental health services provider along with 22 years as a clinical supervisor and mental health program manager.

He is particularly interested in assisting UCNW to advance their population health perspective because he believes that evidence supports that it is the most cost-effective way to reduce human suffering and to build strong, vibrant and successful communities.

Sharon Junge, MD

I started working at Unity Care NW in November 2018, and specialize in Family Medicine.

I graduated from Loyola Stritch School of Medicine and did my family medicine residency in Carbondale, Illinois.    I have worked for non-profit clinics in several states and in Australia as well as doing volunteer work overseas in St. Lucia, Brazil, and Tanzania.   I have taught with the University of Illinois, the University of Washington and the University of Dodoma.

I love working at a clinic that does not limit who can be seen and also goes the extra mile to help patients with many of the problems that affect health.

Carrie Shane, DDS

I have over 20 years experience as a practicing dentist, including more than 17 years as lead for programs and strategic planning for Unity Care NW’s dental programs in Bellingham and Ferndale.   I earned a DDS from Creighton University, and a Bachelor of Arts from Western Washington University.

I am a member of NNOHA (National Network for Oral Health Access).

Hieu Tran, RDH

I like working in community health because I believe everyone deserves access to dental care.

I earned my AAT degree from Whatcom Community College with Honors in 2010. I went on to complete my AAAS degree in Dental Hygiene at Shoreline Community College in 2013. I am fluent in Vietnamese.