Leadership Team
Nancy Merriman >
Chief Executive Officer
Nancy Merriman
Chief Executive Officer
Nancy Merriman, Chief Executive Officer of the Alaska Primary Care Association, is dedicated to community health, believing in the interplay of social, physical, and environmental well-being.
Prior to joining APCA in 2013, Nancy spearheaded clinic development at the Denali Commission, promoted health planning in Anchorage, and led nutrition programs in Kodiak. Nancy has degrees in Community Nutrition, Public Health, and Business Administration.
Outside of work, Nancy enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, reading, and relaxing at her cabin on Flat Lake.
Tari O'Connor >
Chief Program Officer
Tari O'Connor
Chief Program Officer
Tari O’Connor is the Chief Program Officer for the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). She has nearly 20 years of leadership experience in state, local, and non-profit public health in Alaska. Tari is interested in how policy, community, and organizational systems all affect health. She has a variety of focus areas that include chronic disease and injury prevention, reproductive health, infectious disease prevention and control, childcare licensing, WIC, school-based health centers, and workforce development.
Tari lives in Anchorage with her husband and son, and she enjoys spending time outdoors.
Patty Linduska >
Special Projects Officer
Patty Linduska
Special Projects Officer
Patty Linduska is the Special Projects Officer for the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). A registered nurse with over 46 years of experience in rural healthcare, she has worked as a provider in Medical and Behavioral Health and as a leader in Healthcare Administration. Drawing on her extensive training and experience, Patty leads and supports APCA’s programs and initiatives in workforce development, health center operations, grant writing, and quality improvement.
Patty is mission-driven and is passionate about supporting Alaska’s Community Health Centers in providing comprehensive healthcare access for all. She holds certifications as an NCQA PCMH Certified Content Expert and a Practice Facilitator Certificate.
Patty and her husband of 44 years enjoy outdoor activities, cooking together, and being grandparents.
Cortney Senkler >
Director, Finance
Cortney Senkler
Director, Finance
Cortney Senkler is the Director of Finance for the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA), where she oversees all financial operations. With experience in managing federal, state, and local grants, Cortney has a comprehensive understanding of allowability and reporting requirements crucial for a grant-funded organization. Her strategic oversight ensures the stability and growth of APCA’s financial resources.
Cortney holds a strong foundation in financial management and grant administration. She is dedicated in her commitment to leveraging financial resources effectively to support APCA’s mission of Advancing Alaska’s Wellness. Passionate about community health, she is driven by a desire to make a significant impact on the well-being of Alaskans, ensuring everyone has access to quality healthcare. Cortney finds deep fulfillment in her role, knowing she plays an integral part in the overall health of the association, which is vital for APCA to continue being a steadfast ally for Alaskans to live their healthiest lives.
Jessie Menkens >
Director, Government & External Affairs
Jessie Menkens
Director, Government & External Affairs
Jessie Menkens is the Director of Government & External Affairs at the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). She oversees state and federal government affairs, working closely with elected officials and government agencies to advance Alaska Health Centers’ policy priorities. Her efforts emphasize the essential role Health Centers play in the state’s healthcare system and the communities they serve.
In her role, Jessie works to support FQHC payments and secure investments to grow and sustain the Health Centers’ workforce. Her efforts also focus on expanding opportunities to meet patients’ health-related needs and improve access to care.
Motivated by the meaningful contributions Health Centers make to their communities, Jessie takes pride in working with Health Center leaders and decision-makers to improve healthcare access for all Alaskans.
Melissa White >
Director, Organizational Development
Melissa White
Director, Organizational Development
Melissa White is the Organizational Development Director at the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). Previously, she held the role of Senior Manager of Workforce Development. With 15 years of experience in the healthcare sector, she’s led initiatives in workforce development, employee engagement, and leadership advancement.
In her current role, Melissa drives and implements talent strategies to attract, engage, and retain top talent while fostering a high-performance culture aligned with APCA’s mission of Advancing Alaska’s Wellness. Passionate about creating an environment that supports both employees and communities, Melissa dedicates her efforts to making a meaningful impact on healthcare access across the state.
Janet Johnston >
Director, Health Center Operations & Quality
Janet Johnston
Director, Health Center Operations & Quality
Janet Johnston is the Health Center Operations and Quality Director for the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). She brings extensive experience in public health, healthcare, and research in Alaska. Drawing on her strong background in epidemiology and population health, Janet drives health initiatives aimed at improving community well-being.
Janet holds both an MPH and a PhD in Epidemiology from the University of Pittsburgh.
Originally from New Jersey, Janet lives in Anchorage, where she enjoys outdoor activities, spending time with family, and playing the violin.
Shannon Farr >
Executive Assistant/Board Liaison
Shannon Farr
Executive Assistant/Board Liaison
Shannon Farr is the Executive Assistant/Board Liaison at the Alaska Primary Care Association.
Come back soon to learn more about Shannon!
Data & Evaluation
Kristen Doering >
Lead Evaluator
Kristen Doering
Lead Evaluator
Kristen Doering is the Lead Evaluator for the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). She drives program evaluation efforts to advance Alaska’s wellness and ensures data and analytics guide decision-making and program development. Her work enhances the impact of APCA and Alaska’s Community Health Centers on health outcomes.
Kristen is passionate about delivering actionable insights, fostering collaboration, and supporting workforce development. She finds fulfillment in creating meaningful improvements in rural healthcare access and quality across Alaska.
Stephen Browning >
System Analyst
Stephen Browning
System Analyst
Stephen Browning is a System Analyst at the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). He develops and maintains data-driven reports that highlight program performance and its impact on Alaska’s Community Health Centers. His analytics strengthen APCA’s education efforts, securing funding and resources to improve the healthcare statewide.
Stephen turns raw data into meaningful insights that drive impactful decisions. He takes pride in knowing his work expands healthcare services for all Alaskans, improving care and workforce development across Alaska.
Finance
Cortney Senkler >
Director
Cortney Senkler
Director
Cortney Senkler is the Director of Finance for the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA), where she oversees all financial operations. With experience in managing federal, state, and local grants, Cortney has a comprehensive understanding of allowability and reporting requirements crucial for a grant-funded organization. Her strategic oversight ensures the stability and growth of APCA’s financial resources.
Cortney holds a strong foundation in financial management and grant administration. She is dedicated in her commitment to leveraging financial resources effectively and ethically to support APCA’s mission of Advancing Alaska’s Wellness. Passionate about community health, she is driven by a desire to make a significant impact on the well-being of Alaskans, ensuring everyone has access to quality healthcare. Cortney finds deep fulfillment in her role, knowing she plays an integral part in the overall health of the association, which is vital for APCA to continue being a steadfast ally for Alaskans to live their healthiest lives.
Raelynn Llewellyn >
Accountant
Raelynn Llewellyn
Accountant
Raelynn Llewellyn is an Accountant at the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). She processes and reports financial transactions to ensure financial integrity.
She supports Alaska’s Community Health Centers by facilitating funding opportunities that provide care. Raelynn is passionate about Advancing Alaska’s Wellness to improve healthcare access for all Alaskans.
Jamela Anderson >
Accounting Assistant
Jamela Anderson
Accounting Assistant
Jamela Anderson is the Accounting Assistant at the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). She supports financial operations by processing invoices, reconciling accounts, and maintaining accurate records. Her business studies at the University of Alaska Anchorage and administrative experience equip her with strong organizational and problem-solving skills. She values teamwork and efficiency in ensuring financial accuracy.
Government and External Affairs
Jessie Menkens >
Director
Jessie Menkens
Director
Jessie Menkens is the Director of Government & External Affairs at the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). She oversees state and federal government affairs, working closely with elected officials and government agencies to advance Alaska Health Centers’ policy priorities. Her efforts emphasize the essential role Health Centers play in the state’s healthcare system and the communities they serve.
In her role, Jessie works to support FQHC payments and secure investments to grow and sustain the Health Centers’ workforce. Her efforts also focus on expanding opportunities to meet patients’ health-related needs and improve access to care.
Motivated by the meaningful contributions Health Centers make to their communities, Jessie takes pride in working with Health Center leaders and decision-makers to improve healthcare access for all Alaskans.
Hailey Cox >
Communications Lead
Hailey Cox
Communications Lead
Hailey Cox is the Communications Lead for the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). She develops and implements communication strategies that amplify APCA’s mission of Advancing Alaska’s Wellness. Her work includes creating impactful content, promoting events, and connecting stakeholders with valuable resources.
Hailey is passionate about making a difference through effective communication. She takes pride in elevating the visibility of Alaska’s Community Health Centers and supporting efforts to improve healthcare access and outcomes for communities across the state.
Ellen McQueen >
Health Programs Administrative Support Specialist
Ellen McQueen
Health Programs Administrative Support Specialist
Ellen McQueen is a Program Support Specialist at the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). She supports Government & External Affairs and Health Center Operations & Quality initiatives.
Ellen facilitates events, assists with policy-related projects, and fosters communication in state and federal forums to support Alaska’s Community Health Centers. She takes pride in organizing educational events and highlighting the essential role health centers play in community well-being.
Health Center Operations & Quality
Janet Johnston >
Director
Janet Johnston
Director
Janet Johnston is the Health Center Operations and Quality Director for the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). She brings extensive experience in public health, healthcare, and research in Alaska. Drawing on her strong background in epidemiology and population health, Janet drives health initiatives aimed at improving community well-being.
Janet holds both an MPH and a PhD in Epidemiology from the University of Pittsburgh.
Originally from New Jersey, Janet lives in Anchorage, where she enjoys outdoor activities, spending time with family, and playing the violin.
Vicky Warren >
Health Center Operations Senior Manager
Vicky Warren
Health Center Operations Senior Manager
Vicky Warren is the Health Center Operations Senior Manager at the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). She leads a multidisciplinary team that supports the development and operations of Alaska’s Community Health Centers (CHCs). Vicky works closely with Health Centers to assess needs, create action plans, and evaluate outcomes while managing funding proposals, Fee-for-Service agreements, progress reports, and contracts.
Vicky ensures CHCs have the resources and guidance needed to optimize their operations. She takes pride in building strong relationships with Health Centers, enabling her to identify areas for improvement, implement tailored solutions, and monitor progress effectively.
Committed to collaboration, Vicky values the opportunity to provide training and technical assistance to Health Centers, contributing to Advancing Alaska’s Wellness.
Shyloh Snowberger >
Population Health & Quality Improvement Senior Manager
Shyloh Snowberger
Population Health & Quality Improvement Senior Manager
Shyloh Snowberger is the Population Health & Quality Improvement Senior Manager at the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). She manages multiple grants to align with the needs of Alaska’s Community Health Centers (CHCs) and meet grantor requirements. Shyloh collaborates with Health Center representatives to develop strategies that support their operational goals.
She helps CHCs secure funding for tools and technologies that streamline workflows, reduce administrative burdens, and improve patient care.
With a clinical background, Shyloh is passionate about enhancing patient outcomes and creating a supportive environment for healthcare professionals. She takes pride in making a positive impact on Alaska’s healthcare system.
Josh Crandall >
Population Health Manager
Josh Crandall
Population Health Manager
Josh Crandall is the Population Health Manager for the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA), where he supports Community Health Centers across the state by helping them meet health data reporting requirements and maintain eligibility for essential funding opportunities. He also facilitates training and technical assistance to ensure Health Centers remain current on industry best practices and compliant with grant expectations.
Josh’s work directly strengthens the operations of both Tribal and non-Tribal health centers, helping them navigate complex healthcare systems and improve the quality of care in their communities.
What excites him most about his role is the opportunity to serve not only his hometown of Anchorage but also rural communities across Alaska — including Kotzebue, where his family once lived. Supporting CHCs throughout the state is a meaningful milestone in his career.
Tammy Choromanski >
Health Professions Education Program Lead
Tammy Choromanski
Health Professions Education Program Lead
Tammy Choromanski is the Health Professions Education Program Lead for the Alaska Primary Care Association.
Come back soon to learn more about Tammy!
Meridith Griggs >
Quality Improvement Analyst
Meridith Griggs
Quality Improvement Analyst
Meridith Griggs is the Quality Improvement (QI) Analyst at the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). She develops and implements initiatives to improve healthcare delivery and outcomes, aligning with APCA’s mission of Advancing Alaska’s Wellness. Meridith manages projects, identifies areas for improvement, and promotes best practices to support Alaska Community Health Centers (CHCs).
She helps Health Centers adopt data-driven strategies and change management practices to enhance clinic performance and patient outcomes in areas such as behavioral health, oral health, and chronic disease management. Passionate about collaboration and continuous improvement, Meridith is motivated by the meaningful impact her work has on healthcare staff and the communities they serve.
Olivia Grill >
Data Analyst
Olivia Grill
Data Analyst
Olivia Grill is a Data Analyst at the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). She analyzes health data to help Alaska’s Community Health Centers improve care quality.
Her work guides decisions that enhance patient outcomes and maximize resource use. Olivia is passionate about turning data into actionable insights that advance healthcare for Alaskan communities.
Patricia Martin >
Community Health Worker & Instructor
Patricia Martin
Community Health Worker & Instructor
Patricia Martin is a Community Health Worker (CHW) Instructor and Credentialing Coordinator at the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). She trains CHWs and manages their credentialing for Alaska’s Community Health Centers.
Her work equips Health Centers with trained CHWs who deliver essential support to patients and communities. Patricia finds fulfillment in seeing the positive impact CHWs and Health Centers create across Alaska.
Tessa Walker Linderman >
Clinical Consultant
Tessa Walker Linderman
Clinical Consultant
Tessa Walker Linderman is the Clinical Consultant for the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). She coordinates initiatives that support Health Center providers and clinicians across Alaska.
She ensures providers have the resources and connections they need to deliver exceptional patient care. As a nurse, Tessa is passionate about patient health and clinical excellence. She finds fulfillment in helping clinicians make their work more meaningful and impactful.
Organizational Development
Melissa White >
Director
Melissa White
Director
Melissa White is the Organizational Development Director at the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). Previously, she held the role of Senior Manager of Workforce Development. With 15 years of experience in the healthcare sector, she’s led initiatives in workforce development, employee engagement, and leadership advancement.
In her current role, Melissa drives and implements talent strategies to attract, engage, and retain top talent while fostering a high-performance culture aligned with APCA’s mission of Advancing Alaska’s Wellness. Passionate about creating an environment that supports both employees and communities, Melissa dedicates her efforts to making a meaningful impact on healthcare access across the state.
Siya Kuehl >
Human Resources Analyst
Siya Kuehl
Human Resources Analyst
Siya Kuehl is the Human Resources Analyst at the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). She oversees recruitment, employee relations, and workforce development initiatives, ensuring APCA attracts and retains qualified individuals dedicated to supporting Alaska’s Community Health Centers.
Siya’s efforts strengthen APCA’s ability to support Alaska’s Community Health Centers. Through her work, APCA helps ensure that health centers are staffed with skilled professionals who deliver high-quality care to Alaskan communities. She contributes to programs that build a resilient workforce and improve healthcare access across the state.
Passionate about supporting those who make a difference in healthcare, Siya takes pride in working behind the scenes to build an engaged workforce. She finds fulfillment in contributing to better health outcomes for Alaskans, particularly in rural and remote areas, and values collaborating with teams who share her commitment.
Workforce Development
Tomi Wahlstrom >
Training Manager
Tomi Wahlstrom
Training Manager
Tomi Wahlstrom is the Training Manager at the Alaska Primary Care Association. Tomi supports APCA’s mission by ensuring trainers deliver high-quality courses to prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals. His work focuses on training entry-level healthcare workers and strengthening Alaska’s healthcare workforce. Passionate about education and professional growth, Tomi takes pride in helping individuals discover rewarding healthcare careers.
Bonnie McCain >
Outreach Manager
Bonnie McCain
Outreach Manager
Bonnie McCain is the Outreach Manager at the Alaska Primary Care Association.
Come back soon to learn more about Bonnie!
Katrina Merlino >
Employment Coordinator
Katrina Merlino
Employment Coordinator
Katrina Merlino is an Employment Coordinator for the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). She connects qualified candidates with opportunities that support APCA’s mission of Advancing Alaska’s Wellness, with a focus on strengthening Community Health Centers.
Passionate about workforce development, Katrina takes pride in matching Alaskans with roles that enhance Alaska’s Health Centers and improve community health. She is driven by the opportunity to make a meaningful impact through her work.
Alexandra Forrest >
Outreach Coordinator
Alexandra Forrest
Outreach Coordinator
Alexandra Forrest is the Outreach Coordinator for the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). She connects with individuals and healthcare organizations, helping them learn about and access APCA’s no-cost training and service opportunities to advance careers in healthcare and strengthen the state’s workforce.
Alex is passionate about building partnerships with employers and providing the support they need to deliver quality patient care. She takes pride in fostering connections that empower healthcare providers to thrive in their roles and meet the needs of their communities.
Shannon West >
Program Coordinator
Shannon West
Program Coordinator
Shannon West is a Program Coordinator at the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). She coordinates PATH Academies and oversees supportive services for participants across Alaska.
Shannon supports Alaska’s healthcare workforce by guiding participants through their career journeys. She is passionate about meeting individuals where they are, providing the resources they need to succeed, and supporting their growth in healthcare careers.
Tatiana Harder >
Program Coordinator
Tatiana Harder
Program Coordinator
Tatiana Harder is a Program Coordinator at the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). She oversees the Registered Apprenticeship Program, supporting apprentices as they work toward becoming certified healthcare professionals.
Her work creates opportunities for Alaskans to build rewarding careers in healthcare, strengthening the state’s workforce. Tatiana takes pride in seeing apprentices graduate and continue their education, contributing to the future of healthcare in Alaska.
Lindsey Ark >
Program Coordinator
Lindsey Ark
Program Coordinator
Lindsey Ark is a Program Coordinator at the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). She supports the Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP), which provides education and training to Alaska’s healthcare workforce.
Lindsey helps strengthen Alaska’s healthcare system by equipping professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to deliver high-quality care.
Passionate about collaboration, she works with community members and healthcare professionals to foster a supportive environment. Lindsey finds fulfillment in helping healthcare workers thrive and ensuring exceptional care for all Alaskans.
Cynthia Spies >
Training Instructor Coach
Cynthia Spies
Training Instructor Coach
Cynthia Spies is a Training Instructor Coach at the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). She trains and supports PATH Academy participants in health education, equipping them with the skills needed to pursue healthcare careers, particularly within Alaska’s Community Health Centers. Cynthia also addresses the specific training needs of rural Health Centers, collaborating with APCA’s Training Team to deliver tailored solutions that strengthen the state’s healthcare workforce.
Her work bridges gaps in healthcare workforce development by preparing participants for critical roles in Community Health Centers. Through health education and workforce training, Cynthia fosters a more resilient healthcare system, improving patient care and supporting the growth of Health Centers across Alaska.
Cynthia is driven by the opportunity to help individuals gain the skills and confidence to succeed in healthcare. She takes pride in contributing to Alaska’s healthcare system as she helps shape the future of healthcare education and workforce development.
Cynthia Lilly >
Training Instructor
Cynthia Lilly
Training Instructor
Cynthia Lilly is a Training Instructor and Certification Coordinator for the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). She leads APCA’s Registered Apprenticeship Program, teaching Clinical Medical Assisting, Medical Administration, Billing and Coding, and Electronic Health Records. As the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) Coordinator, Cynthia aims to help apprentices successfully pass their certification exams.
Cynthia delivers industry-aligned training that fosters professionalism, critical thinking, and competency, empowering apprentices to excel in healthcare roles. Passionate about education, she takes pride in simplifying complex topics and advancing workforce development to strengthen Alaska’s Community Health Centers.
Lori Xiong >
Training Instructor
Lori Xiong
Training Instructor
Lori Xiong is a Training Instructor at the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). She instructs and mentors participants in PATH academy to pursue their healthcare careers.
Lori takes pride in delivering entry-level health education that empowers individuals to make a meaningful impact in their communities across Alaska.
Nathan Stamm >
Training Instructor
Nathan Stamm
Training Instructor
Nathan Stamm is a Training Instructor at the Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA). He focuses on supporting Alaska’s Community Health Centers through Workforce Development initiatives.
Nathan is passionate about promoting behavioral health and wellness in a collaborative environment. He finds fulfillment in contributing to the development of a resilient healthcare workforce across Alaska.