CBMW Team

Sean Clark, Ph.D.
Center and Research Director
Chair of the Department of Kinesiology

Dr. Clark joined the kinesiology faculty at Gordon College in 2000 and teaches courses that focus on the neurophysiological and mechanical basis of human movement. He also serves as the Academic and Research Director for the Gordon College Center for Balance Mobility and Wellness. 

Dr. Clark's research interests focus broadly on the coordination and multisensory control of posture and orientation. His most recent research projects have examined the use of balance assessment tools to quantify postural stability in both athletes and older adults. Dr. Clark's current research interests are in developing effective treatment strategies to improve functional balance performance in older adults. 

Emily A.W. Righter, PT, DPT, GCS
Center Clinical Director

Emily Righter, PT, DPT, GCS received her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with a minor in Psychology from Occidental College in Los Angeles in 2008. In 2011, she earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT) from MGH Institute of Health Professions in Boston. Emily joined the Center for Balance, Mobility and Wellness as a full-time therapist in 2010 following a one-year internship. Emily has since expanded her role to Clinical Director and continues to serve as a mentor and now leader of therapy operations at the Center.

Emily enjoys treating patients with gait and balance impairments and vestibular disorders including recovery from concussions to assist in the improvement of overall functional mobility and independence. She has given educational lectures to area physical therapists and other health professionals on vestibular rehabilitation after concussions.

Emily has completed extensive coursework in vestibular rehabilitation and received her Certificate of Competency in Basic and Advanced Vestibular Rehabilitation and Cervicogenic Dizziness from the American Physical Therapy Association’s Vestibular Rehabilitation Competency-Based Courses. She is also a Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Geriatric Physical Therapy through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties. Most recently, she expanded her knowledge and expertise by attending the Parkinson’s Foundation Team Training.

In her free time, Emily enjoys exploring the outdoors with her husband, two children and dog, baking and traveling.

Andrew Walker, BS, ACE-CPT, SFS, FNS
Center Wellness Director

Andrew received his Bachelors of Science in Kinesiology from Gordon College in 2001. Upon graduation, he began his career at Orthopaedics Plus as an exercise physiologist where he assisted clients recovering from orthopedic and spinal injuries, joint replacement and other orthopedic surgeries. In 2003, Andrew became nationally certified as a personal trainer through the American Council on Exercise (NCCA accredited) and has trained a variety of clients from high school age through the older adult population. 

In 2007 Andrew began his management career as the Director of Health and Wellness at the Greater Beverly YMCA. He expanded his role to oversee both Membership and Health and Wellness Departments and eventually, leadership of disease prevention initiatives. In mid-2015, Andrew took on his next opportunity as the Branch Executive Director for a brand new YMCA in Exeter, NH. In the fall of 2017, Andrew was pleased to return to his alma mater as the center Wellness Director. In his role, Andrew leads wellness operations at the Center including membership, community outreach, student development, marketing, program development/design and patient transition from therapy to wellness.

His professional interests include strength and conditioning throughout the lifespan, geriatric health and well being, community wellness, sports specific conditioning, group and individual program design, and wellness education. Andrew's personal interests include strength and conditioning, hiking, sailing, camping, reading, traveling, house projects and spending time with his wife and twin daughters.

"Exercise is medicine and with the right types in the right doses can bring about powerful change to your body at any age in the quest to reach your goals!"

Heather Lewis, MSPT
Physical Therapist

Heather graduated from Ithaca College in 1998 with a Bachelor's Degree in Clinical Science, and in 1999 with a Master’s Degree in Physical Therapy.  She joined the staff at the Center for Balance Mobility and Wellness in February of 2017. 

She completed a two-year fellowship in Orthopedic Manual Therapy in 2006.  She has experience working in a variety of clinical settings and worked in outpatient orthopedic clinics for over 10 years prior to coming to Gordon.  In 2018, she earned a Certificate of Competency in Basic Vestibular Rehabilitation from the American Physical Therapy Association’s Vestibular Rehabilitation Competency-Based Course at Emory University.  In 2020, Heather earned a Certificate of Completion of the Parkinson's Foundation Team Training Course. In 2022 Heather attended Modern Management of the Older Adult (MMOA): Essential Foundations through the Institute for Clinical Excellence (ICE).

Clinically, Heather enjoys treating orthopedic issues in the aging adult, including osteoarthritis, as well treating patients with vestibular disorders, post-concussion syndrome or TBI, and patients with gait and balance disorders. 

Heather is married with two children and enjoys cross-country skiing in the winter and road bicycling in warmer weather. She has been a Pan-Mass Challenge rider since 2018. 

Mackenzie Marks, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist

Mackenzie received her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with a minor in Psychology from Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, TX in 2020. In 2024, she earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from MGH Institute of Health Professions in Boston, MA.

She joined the Center for Balance, Mobility and Wellness in 2024 and is excited to further her passion working with the neurologic and geriatric populations, as well as be a part of the amazing community at the Center!
Mackenzie grew up as a competitive dancer and continued dancing in college. Her senior year she became the Coach of the TCU Elite Dance Team, winning the bronze medal at Nationals. 

Mackenzie is originally from Southern California, but now lives in Boston. Her family is spread all over the world in California, Texas, New Zealand, and Australia, but she loves to keep in touch with them virtually! 

Rachel Nelson, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist

Rachel graduated from Simmons College in 2012 with her Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Physiology and Health Sciences and her Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2014. During her clinical experience, Rachel was able to travel across the country to broaden her experience and exposure to varying client demographics.

Prior to coming to Gordon College, Rachel worked as a staff physical therapist in acute care for five years where she was involved in the Safe Patient Handling and Intensive Care Unit boards. Rachel enjoyed her time in the inpatient setting working with patients with various neurological, cardiovascular, and medically complex diagnoses, however transitioned to outpatient care at the Center for Balance, Mobility, and Wellness to focus on her passion for balance and vestibular rehabilitation.

Rachel is certified in Allied Team Training by the American Parkinson’s Disease Foundation for the treatment of patients with Parkinson’s disease across the spectrum of care. She has continued her education on neurological populations through the Institute of Knowledge Translation and she continues to be passionate about furthering her clinical education.

Rachel and her husband have a daughter, Riley, who keeps them on their toes! In her free time, Rachel enjoys running in the National Parks, hiking local trails, and going to the beach with her family and their rescue dog, Pearl. 

Emily Schilling, PT, DPT, NCS
Physical Therapist

Emily Schilling PT, DPT, NCS, received her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with a minor in Psychology from Gordon College in 2009. In 2012, she earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from MGH Institute of Health Professions. Emily then went on to work in a variety of settings through New England Baptist Hospital, where she worked in acute care, surgical day clinic, occupational medicine, and outpatient orthopedics. She worked in a rehab setting where she focused extensively on stroke rehab patients and memory care support before transitioning to outpatient neurological and orthopedic therapy at Lahey in Gloucester, MA. She transitioned to the Gordon College Center for Balance, Mobility and Wellness to focus on her passion for neurological outpatient rehab of all types.  

Emily has taken varied coursework throughout her career to diversify her skills and serve her patients better. She has taken several American Physical Therapy Association courses for vestibular and concussion training and multiple Maitland Australian Physiotherapy courses to advance her hands-on manual therapy skills and is certified in the Selected Functional Movement Analysis. Most notably, she is a Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Neurological Physical Therapy through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties. Emily loves to help patients identify their needs, problem-solve solutions, and become as functionally independent as possible.   

In her free time, Emily enjoys anything outdoors. Originally from New Hampshire, she and her husband have done extensive hiking and love to spend time outside with their two children. 

Elisabeth Whitley, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist

Elisabeth (Lissa) received her Bachelor of Science in Movement Science from Gordon College in 2001 with a minor in music. She continued her education at MGH Institute of Health Professions and received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy in 2004.

Lissa joined the CBMW in 2005 and was involved in the initial development of the wellness program and exercise classes for individuals with Parkinson’s Disease. She has been a guest speaker at local support groups for individuals with Parkinson’s Disease and their caregivers. She has completed continuing education courses in vestibular rehabilitation, geriatric strength training, and movement disorders. She feels it is such a privilege to work with patients to meet their goals and continue or advance their regular physical activity for healthy aging.

Prior to joining the staff at the CBMW, Lissa worked at Children’s Hospital Boston in inpatient and outpatient clinics and in a local outpatient orthopedic setting. She continued as a per diem therapist at Children’s for 12 years prior to having her 4th child. She currently works per diem at the CBMW in order to be home and keep up with those sweet kids.

Alison Stallings, PT, MSPT
Physical Therapist

Alison graduated from Gordon College in 1994 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Movement Science. She attended graduate school at the University of Massachusetts at Lowell where she received a Master of Science degree in Physical Therapy in 1996.

Alison joined the staff at the Center for Balance Mobility and Wellness in November of 2010. She has experience working in a variety of clinical settings including inpatient rehabilitation, acute care, homecare, and skilled nursing facility. Her physical therapy interests include neurological, vestibular, gait and balance rehabilitation. She has completed extensive coursework in vestibular rehabilitation including receiving a Certificate of Competency in Basic Vestibular Rehabilitation from the American Physical Therapy Association’s Vestibular Rehabilitation Competency-Based Course at Emory University in 2015. She is certified as an LSVT Big therapist for treating individuals with symptoms from Parkinson’s Disease and enjoys working alongside her clients to help them maintain their mobility and function through exercise.

Alison lives in NH with her husband and four children. In her free time, she likes to spend time with her family, exercise, read and scrapbook.

Katie Larson, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist

Katie graduated from Northeastern University in 2015 with her bachelors in rehabilitation science and Doctorate in physical therapy. She went on to complete a residency specializing in neurology through the James A Haley VA in Tampa FL. She received her neurologic specialty certification in 2018.

Prior to coming to Gordon College, Katie has worked at Whittier Rehabilitation hospital, Winchester hospital, and Spaulding Rehabilitation hospital in both the acute rehab and outpatient settings. In her experience she has continued to work with patients with neurological and vestibular conditions. Katie has taken many courses and attended conferences to further advance her skills in working with patients with post concussion, vertigo and functional neurologic disorders.

In her free time, Katie enjoys teaching fitness classes and taking her 2 dogs for walks. She is originally from Worcester MA and now resides with her husband in Woburn MA.

Taylor DeMaggio, BS, ACE-CPT
 Lead Personal Trainer

Taylor received her Associates of Science in Dietetics and Clinical Nutrition from North Shore Community College in 2020. She became nationally certified as a Group Fitness Instructor and Personal Trainer through American Council on Exercise in 2021. In 2023 she received her Bachelor’s of Science in Sports Movement Science from Salem State University.

In 2020 Taylor was a wellness coach for Jenny Craig where she guided her clients to stay on track and make healthy choices. Once she got her ACE certifications she coached group classes at Orangetheory Fitness. She spent 200 hours interning as a Physical Therapy Aide where she expanded her experience. Taylor enjoys guiding others to better themselves physically and mentally.

Taylor has always enjoyed being active and was a dancer throughout her childhood. In her free time, she enjoys the beach, yoga, and shopping.

Taylor looks forward to motivating and empowering her clients, helping them become stronger, healthier and more confident!

Catherine Svagdis, MSW, LICSW, ACE-GFI 
 Wellness Coach, Group Wellness Instructor 

Cath received her Bachelor of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Tufts University in 1993 and her Master’s in Social Work from Boston University in 1996. In 1999, she became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. She joined the staff at the Center for Balance Mobility and Wellness in November 2023.

After working for several years in foster care and adoption, Cath began working in higher education. She worked for 14 years at Azusa Pacific University in California as an Adjunct Professor teaching Health and Wellness classes as well as leading exercise classes for students. In 2020, Cath became nationally certified as a Group Fitness Instructor through the American Council of Exercise. She then coached group exercise classes at Orangetheory Fitness

Cath has always enjoyed athletics and recreation. She’s most proud of playing college volleyball, summiting Mt Baldy (10,064 ft) in Southern California while carrying her young son in a backpack and summiting Mt. Whitney (14,505 ft) in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California.

Originally from California, Cath’s family is now all in the Boston area. Cath lives in Hamilton with her husband and German Shepherd. Her daughter is a high school biology teacher in Newton and her son is a student at Tufts University. Cath enjoys hiking, exercising at the gym, spending time with her family and being outside in the sunshine. Her passion is helping people improve their lives through fitness and encouraging them along their journey towards better health.

Beth Ann Sperr
Office Manager

Beth Ann graduated from Barrington College in Barrington, RI in 1985, just prior to the merger with Gordon College, with a degree in Business Administration. She has worked extensively on the North Shore working in the financial and medical fields. The majority of her medical administrative experience has been in ophthalmology and psychotherapy. She joined the CBMW staff in October of 2015 and is happy to be part of a great team and getting to know all the wonderful patients at the Center.

Beth Ann is a native to this area, growing up in Wenham. She has lived in Beverly all her adult life with her husband and daughter.

Jennifer Enfield
Office Assistant

Jennifer graduated from Gordon College in 1989 with a Bachelors in Science focusing on Exercise Physiology along with a minor in Psychology. She worked for several years for the North Shore Education Consortium followed by a few years working at the Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. For the past 20 years, she was a stay at home mom raising her three children before joining the staff at the front desk in January of 2018. She thoroughly enjoys the patients and the environment at the CBMW.

Jennifer has lived in the North Shore since graduating college and currently lives in Topsfield with her husband, children and beloved dog.

Marcia Kercher
Office Assistant

Marcia graduated from Marian Court College in 1991 with a degree in the Administrative Assistant program. She worked for an ophthalmology practice for eleven years. Prior to that she was a bank teller for two local banks. For the past fifteen years she has been a stay-at-home mom, formerly on ministry staff for a local church and currently in the catering field with Vinwood Catering. She joined the front office staff of CBMW in August of 2018. She is blessed to be part of a team that cares deeply for the patients and provides a welcoming atmosphere to all who enter the Center.

Marcia grew up in Saugus and resides in Ipswich with her husband Steve and their four children.