Academy of Health Professions
The Academy of Health Professions (AHP) offers students an introduction to careers in healthcare through foundational courses that utilize the National Health Science Standards. Topics such as anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, and medical math prepare students for career and college pathways in a wide range of healthcare occupations.
Uniform Ordering Information
CERTIFICATIONS
Completion of the program prepares students for certification in the following areas:
- Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
- Pharmacy Technician
- Basic Life Support for the Healthcare Provider (American Heart Association)
CAREER OUTLOOK
Graduates from this program have a great start on these and other potential careers:
- Physician
- Emergency Medical Technician
- Registered Nurse (RN) and Nursing Assistant
- Physical Therapist
- Pharmacy Technician
INSTRUCTORS
Dawn Shuster, MEd, MSN, NBCT, RNC
Department Chair, Academy of Health Professions,
Nursing Assistant Program Coordinator
As the Department Chair of the Academy of Health Professions, my mission is to
collaborate with stakeholders, develop solid curricula, ensure state-of-the-art resources, and design engaging lessons to prepare students to be competent healthcare professionals and lifelong learners.
As a lifelong learner who loves helping people, I cherish working with students and sharing my passions for learning and the health professions! Since college graduation, I have worked as a Cytogenetics Technologist, helping to diagnose chromosomal abnormalities, and as a Registered Nurse serving the pediatric and neonatal populations. Both of these professional experiences enhance the instruction I bring to my students!
Amanda Ripley, MAT, NBCT, CPhT
Academy of Health Professions Teacher
I started my teaching career in the sciences with my background in Chemistry while still working in healthcare as a pharmacy technician. At Sollers Point I have been able to merge both careers by teaching at the Academy of Health Professions. My favorite part about teaching is the relationships I build with students. I love the conversations before class starts and the small ones during class while they are working independently.
Michael Destefano, MEd
Academy of Health Professions Teacher
I have been working at Sollers Point Technical High School for five years. My passion for teaching was built from my family of teachers. I enjoy the beach, fishing, New York Sports, and learning about nature. I love building relationships with all of my students and helping them prepare for college-level science courses and healthcare careers.
Denise Zacharski, MEd
Academy of Health Professions Teacher
With over 30 years of experience in medical education, I bring a lifelong passion for teaching and mentoring the next generation of healthcare professionals. Outside the classroom, I’m an avid sports enthusiast who loves the outdoors and cherishes time spent with my family and grandchildren. Whether on the field, in nature, or in the lecture hall, I believe learning is a lifelong journey meant to be shared.