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. 

Marie Lucey, PT, GCS.
Center Clinical Director

Marie is a 1984 graduate of Simmons College with post-graduate coursework at Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions. Marie is the Clinical Director for the Center for Balance, Mobility and Wellness and was instrumental in the development of the Center in 2003 and its growth to the present. 

Prior to coming to Gordon College, Marie worked as a senior therapist in the Balance Center at Lahey Clinic in Burlington, MA. She has completed extensive coursework in Vestibular Rehabilitation including the Basic and Advanced Vestibular Competency Courses at Emory University. She has co-authored a chapter on vestibular function in Netter's Neurology, published by ICON Learning Systems. Marie is board certified as a Geriatric Clinical Specialist by the American Physical Therapy Association and Certified in Allied Team Training by the American Parkinson’s Disease Foundation for the treatment of individuals with Parkinson’s Disease throughout the spectrum of care. 

Marie brings her passion for wellness to the Center and to each of her clients empowering them to achieve their personal goals through healthy aging.

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

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 Manager and now serves as a mentor and leader 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.

McKenzie DiStefano, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist

McKenzie Garvey PT, DPT has been a staff physical therapist at the Center since 2013. She received her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Gordon College in 2009 where she completed an internship at the Center for Balance, Mobility and Wellness. During her internship at the Center, she developed and co-instructed a balance class designed to decrease fall risk. She continued on to graduate studies at Sacred Heart University where she received a Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) in 2013. 

McKenzie has concentrated her physical therapy practice in vestibular, neurological, balance and concussion rehabilitation. She has completed extensive coursework in vestibular rehabilitation and received her Certificate of Competency in Vestibular Rehabilitation from the American Physical Therapy Association’s Vestibular Rehabilitation Competency-Based Course. In addition, McKenzie received her Certified Exercise Expert for Aging Adults (CEEAA) and most recently received her Allied Team Training for Parkinson’s (ATTP) from the Parkinson’s Foundation.  

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.  

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. 

Kevin Kinnard, PT, DPT, CEEAA
Physical Therapist

Kevin is a 2011 graduate from the University of Massachusetts Amherst with a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology and minor in Psychology. In 2015, he earned his Doctorate of Physical Therapy (DPT) from Northeastern University.

Prior to coming to Gordon College, Kevin worked as a staff physical therapist at Health South Rehabilitation Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital, where he worked with patients with various neurological, cardiovascular, and orthopedic disorders and injuries. Kevin has focused his physical therapy practice in neurological, vestibular, and balance rehabilitation while guiding patients to meet their personal goals, maintain their independence, and prevent falls.

Kevin has completed extended coursework by receiving his Certificate of Competency in Vestibular Rehabilitation, becoming a Certified Exercise Expert of the Aging Adult, and completing his Allied Team Training for Parkinson’s disease certification.

In his free time, Kevin enjoys playing various sports, fishing, hiking with his dog, Winnie.

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 Texas and California to broaden her experience and exposure to varying client demographics.

Prior to coming to Gordon College, Rachel worked as a staff physical therapist at Lowell General Hospital 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.

Recently Rachel was 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.

In her free time, Rachel enjoys running in the National Parks, hiking local trails, and going to the beach with her husband and rescue dog, Pearl.

AnaCarolina Araujo, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist

Carolina graduated from Gordon College in 2018 with her Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology and from Franklin Pierce University, in Manchester NH with her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 2021. During her time at Gordon, she completed an internship at the CBMW in 2017. While a student at Gordon, Carolina worked both at Harmeling PT as an aid and at the front desk at the Balance Center.

Prior to coming to work at Gordon College CBMW, Carolina had clinical experiences in inpatient rehabilitation, outpatient pediatrics, and orthopedics. Carolina is a LSVT BIG certified therapist and has completed published research on the efficacy of delivering the LSVT BIG program via telehealth. In addition, she has her level 1 Pelvic floor certification from Herman and Wallace.

Carolina’s personal and professional mission as a physical therapist is to empower patient’s to take charge of their health and restore confidence in their ability to move and engage in their community. She believes you should never have to stop doing the things you love and enjoys working with her patients to determine the safe way to do so.

In her free time, Carolina enjoys spending time with loved ones, watching her brother play football, playing softball in her church’s league and being near the water in the summers.

Rachel Ryder, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist

Rachel graduated from Gordon College in 2015 with her Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology and from Temple University in Philadelphia PA with her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree in 2020. Between undergrad and graduate school Rachel worked as a rehab aide at Penn State Health Outpatient neuro rehab, introducing her to a new realm of physical therapy and leading her to pursue the neuro field throughout her time in PT school.

Prior to coming to Gordon College, Rachel had clinical experiences in acute care, outpatient vestibular, neuro, and orthopedics, and inpatient rehabilitation. She is certified to treat people with Parkinson's Disease for care throughout the spectrum of disease by the Parkinson's Foundation Allied Team Training. 

Rachel's personal and professional mission as a physical therapist is to restore movement and independence to those who have experienced life altering changes and medical challenges, walking alongside them to restore hope in the ability to live an abundant life. 

In her free time, Rachel enjoys going to the beach with her friends, hiking, painting, and reading.

Mackenzie "Kenzie" Syron, PT, DPT
Physical Therapist

Mackenzie earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Exercise Science from Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, CT, in 2019. While in Connecticut, she spent time working as a physical therapy aide at an outpatient orthopedic clinic attached to a nursing home where she developed a strong interest in working with older adults. 

After graduating from Sacred Heart in 2019, Mackenzie immediately began physical therapy school at MGH Institute of Health Professions in Boston. She earned her doctorate in physical therapy in January 2022. Throughout her time in physical therapy school, Mackenzie worked part time as an activities coordinator at an assisted living facility which involved leading an exercise group for fall prevention. Her time working in this capacity at an assisted living facility fostered her love of working with geriatrics. Mackenzie's clinical experiences during her time in PT school spans from working in outpatient orthopedics to working in inpatient intensive care units. She took particular interest in neurology, working on the intensive neurologic care unit and in the ER at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center.  

Outside of the clinic, Mackenzie enjoys being with friends and family and spending time outdoors. She loves traveling and experiencing new cultures. Mackenzie enjoys adventures that push her beyond he comfort zone which has led to experiences with sky diving, bungee jumping and swimming with humpback whales. 

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.

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!"

Noelle Goodwin, BS, ACSM-CPT
Wellness Coach/Certified Personal Trainer

Noelle graduated from Gordon College in 2021 with her Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology. While in her undergrad program at Gordon, she spent time interning at the Center for Balance, Mobility, and Wellness. Following graduation, she began working at the CBMW while she completed her Personal Training Certification. Noelle works at the center as a wellness coach and personal trainer.

In addition to being at the center, Noelle works part time at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital's outpatient center where she works as a personal trainer alongside Physical and Occupational Therapists. 

Noelle's professional goal is to complete her education in Occupational Therapy and obtain her certification in DMI therapy. Her plan as an occupational therapist is to use comprehensive intervention focusing on neuroplasticity and neurorehabilitation to help her patients improve motor control and movement within their everyday activities. 

In her free time, Noelle loves running regularly, being outdoors, and spending time with friends and family. 

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.