In this December episode of SCU Now, host Anthony Sarinana brings you the latest updates, milestones, and national recognition shaping the future of Southern California University of Health Sciences.

We begin with a major academic achievement as SCU earns Candidate for Accreditation status from CAPTE for its new Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program, marking a significant step forward in expanding Whole Health education and preparing the next generation of physical therapists.

From there, we spotlight SCU’s growing global research impact, including Dr. Robb Russell’s international presentation in Rio de Janeiro on identifying inflammatory back pain in chiropractic settings, and Dr. James Whedon’s nationally featured Medicare research examining the safety, cost, and effectiveness of chiropractic care for older adults with neck pain.

You’ll also hear about SCU’s leadership on the national stage, as Provost Dr. Tamara Rozhon joins the Global Forum on Innovation in Health Professional Education at the National Academies—helping shape the future of healthcare education nationwide.

The episode highlights national media recognition as Dr. Steffany Moonaz shares her expertise on exercise and knee osteoarthritis in The New York Times, reinforcing the power of movement-based, patient-centered care.

We close with a compelling integrative clinical case study demonstrating how acupuncture, Ayurveda, and Chinese herbal medicine supported recovery following acute kidney injury—underscoring the impact of Whole Health, interprofessional care.

Whether you’re a student, alumnus, faculty member, or healthcare professional, this episode showcases how SCU continues to lead, innovate, and move healthcare forward.

Welcome to SCU Now, your monthly news recap from Southern California University of Health Sciences! This month, host Anthony highlights major developments, including SCU's integration with the Pacific College of Health and Science's Chicago and San Diego campuses, groundbreaking research on the safety of chiropractic care for older adults, and student success at the 2025 Cal Chiro Quiz Bowl. Additionally, SCU's Anatomy Lab inspires future health professionals through guided tours. To read more about these stories, visit SCUHS.edu and stay updated with the latest from SCU, and don't forget to subscribe!

In the latest episode of 'SCU Now,' host Anthony covers Southern California University of Health Sciences' recent recognition as a 2025 Great College To Work For, highlighting the institution's dedication to a supportive and inclusive culture. The episode also features insights from Dr. Tracy Gaudet on whole health leadership, Dr. Stephanie Moonaz's contributions at the National Juvenile Arthritis Summit, and the launch of SCU's inaugural Master of Science in Genetic Counseling Program. Additionally, the episode discusses the benefits of SCU's Summer IPE week, where students from various health programs engage in collaborative clinical scenarios, emphasizing the importance of interprofessional education and integrative care.

In this edition of SCU Now, we highlight the recent news and achievements from Southern California University of Health Sciences.

Key updates include the expansion of the Doctor of Chiropractic program to Phoenix, Arizona, in January 2026, becoming the first chiropractic degree program in the Southwest. Executive Dean Dr. Nick Poirier and SCU Provost Dr. Tamara Rozhon discuss the significance of this expansion. Other highlights include a Q&A with Executive Dean Dr. Nick Poirier, Mohammad Hadadzadeh's research on the health impacts of space tourism, Dr. Martin Gallegos' award for excellence in teaching and commitment to health justice, the Student American Black Chiropractic Association's chapter of the year award, and Dr. Aly Cohen's work on detoxification is also featured.

Read more in-depth on these stories on the SCU website at www.scuhs.edu