Meet Our Staff
Rey Rivera
Medical Staffing Agency President
Rey David Rivera is the President and CEO of TheraEx Staffing Services, a staffing company that aligns nurses and Allied Professionals with the right organization, setting and position that meets their needs in a dynamic, changing healthcare marketplace.
As an actively practicing registered licensed Occupational Therapist himself, Rey understands the important relationships and the trust that healthcare providers place in the hands of recruiters. He has a unique perspective of what it is like to be a therapist in
search of the right position; a hiring manager and representative of organization looking for that “right person” that fits organization’s culture; as well as the challenges in finding a staffing agency that actually listens and appreciates what you have to offer.
It is his passion to ensure that TheraEx knows who you are, knows your story, and what drives you so you can provide the exceptional care that your patients deserve. As part of this overall strategy, he has ensured that TheraEx Staffing is an active member of Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and has received and maintained certification as an MBE with the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC).
Before devoting his time in creating TheraEx’s unique individualized culture in 2009, Rey served as a licensed professional and leader across numerous healthcare settings for more than 17 years. This includes Area Manager for Hallmark Rehabilitation, Vice President of Rehabilitation at JPH consulting, Inc., Regional Rehabilitation Manager at Bethel Healthcare from 2008, Director of Rehabilitation Services at RJ Therapy, Director of Rehabilitation Services at Mariner Health Care, and a treating Occupational Therapist for a staffing agency whose clients include SNFs and acute hospitals.
After completing his MBA in 2010, Rey got inspired to merge his extensive healthcare experience and unique perspective while applying his entrepreneurial passion to building TheraEx Staffing. In 2019, Rey recently graduated from Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses, as an investment to TheraEx as a small business so it can continue to create jobs and economic opportunity.
Outside of work, Rey enjoys watching movie marathons; spending dinner dates with his ex-girlfriend (a.k.a. his wife) and coaching basketball to his three sons.
Crystal White
Director of Operations
I started in the Healthcare Industry in 2006 doing risk management for Physicians in Dallas. That’s when I fell in love with healthcare staffing. I started my Recruiting career in Physician Recruitment then moved to California where I built experience with Nurse Staffing.
In 2016 I joined the TheraEx family as the Director of the Nursing Division. My favorite thing about what I do is not only the fact that every day is different, but that I get to make a difference in people’s lives by providing jobs and supplying facilities with people who provide excellent care to patients.
Vanessa Cueva
Clinical Division Director
I first started my career as a Healthcare Credentialing Specialist in 2013 for nurses at a Medical Staffing Agency. I like the day to day challenges that come with working in the credentialing field because it makes your days interesting and every day is different!
I graduated in 2011 with my BA in Criminal Justice. I think my degree played a huge part in why I love credentialing because it is very analytical and challenges me each day. I joined the TheraEx team as the Clinical Compliance Manager in 2016 for the Nursing Division. Here at TheraEx, my goal is to provide our clients with the best clinicians possible in the timeliest manner.
Cecilia Bayan
Clinical Compliance Coordinator Lead
I have over ten years’ experience in retail management, which opened my interest and passion in Human Resources. For the past 7 years I have been working in recruiting and employee development. I enjoy getting to know others and assisting them in finding a path where they can develop and thrive. It is a great feeling to be a part of someone else’s journey and see them succeed.
I am a part-time student in the process of obtaining my AA in Business Administration. While I am not studying, I spend a lot of time with my family. If we are not watching a Disney movie, we definitely have a Disney playlist in the background. I enjoy being active and getting a good workout in but only so that I can try new places to eat!
Marshall Harris
Sr. Clinical Recruiter
Hello all! My name is Marshall Harris, I am born and raised a Californian and love every bit of it. Living in California I have lived among an abundance of different cultures which I feel has allowed me to have a better understanding of different values. I feel this plays a huge part when your speaking to an individual in understanding their need and focus on work. Family, fitness and being able to enjoy the outdoors is what I love to do with my free time. I am a true people person, who loves to hear about peoples journey’s and how they have become the person they are today.
I have 15 + years in customer service, and growth and development. My focal point is to help individuals grow efficiently in the health field. I take pride in having everything organized accordingly for my clients, resulting in clear concise communication among employees and the specific health institution’s they are currently working for.
Alyssa Landry
Sr. Clinical Recruiter
I started my career in healthcare staffing in 2012. I worked as a credentialing coordinator for about 3 years before I transferred into healthcare recruiting. I had prior experience recruiting for a call center and knew pretty early on that I wanted to develop my career into the recruiting field again, but within healthcare. I’ve now been in healthcare recruiting for about 5 years and counting. I enjoy what I do; helping others find their career paths and develop themselves into the healthcare professional their seeking to become.
When I am not working, I am usually with my wonderful husband and our beloved fur-child. He’s a Great Dane who is spoiled rotten and we spend a lot of our free time with him. We love going out on the trails here locally off Lake Lanier. The lake and mountain views are gorgeous! We also are gamers and spend time gaming together and with friends live.
Lael Fraedrich
Clinical Recruiter
I was born and raised in Southern Illinois, the youngest of 5 kids. I started in healthcare as a CNA back in 2010 and progressed from there. I worked in Outpatient Dialysis for over 5 years while I was obtaining my bachelor’s degree in Marketing. I have been recruiting in healthcare for over a year now and I LOVE what I do. There is no greater feeling than facilitating the right fit between facility and individual. I am a believer in constantly continuing my education and I am always striving to do and be better for the people I work with and for.
When I am not working, I love to travel, spend time with my beagle pup, and I love all things Disney! I am a huge fan of the arts and spent 10 years playing piano as well as studying traditional ballet for 16 years. I was able to perform several times with the Russian Ballet Company. I firmly believe that you never know what you may like unless you try it. I am always open to new things, experiences, and connecting with new people.
Vanessa Diaz
Clinical Compliance Coordinator
Hello my name is Vanessa Diaz. I am from California and currently living in North Dakota. Life is all about experiences. I enjoy experiencing different places, foods, and meeting different people. Yoga is one of my main hobbies and has helped me grow and stay centered. I have a big spirit and wild heart. I enjoy the outdoors such as beach, hiking, and camping. Family is the foundation of my life.
Elizabeth Roszell
Locums Compliance Coordinator Lead
Hello, my name is Elizabeth Roszell. My stepfather served in the Navy so growing up I had the opportunity to move around the U.S. discovering new cultures and building friendships along the way. Currently, I reside in beautiful Pensacola Florida. I have 14 years of experience in the customer service industry. I find helping others to be very rewarding and not knowing what my day may bring to be exciting, I am eager to overcome day-to-day challenges. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, my other half, and our 5 dogs and 2 cats. I have a deep love for animals and a desire to help them. You can also find me working on my home remodeling, cooking, or binge-watching one of my favorite tv shows.
Emily Evans
Executive Assistant
Howdy, my name is Emily! I’m a small-town girl originally from sunny Florida, currently residing in Texas. In second grade I was voted Most Helpful Student by my classmates, and I still have the award saved to this day. Helping others is a part of the fabric of who I am. Throughout my career, I’ve worked in a wide range of industries including Marketing, Technology, and Oil & Gas Exploration.
In my downtime, I enjoy flipping furniture, tackling home renovation projects, baking, and binge-watching comedy TV shows – mainly the New Girl or Brooklyn Nine-Nine.
Shelia Sutphin
Accounting Manager
Hi there, my name is Shelia Sutphin. I grew up in the sunshine state of CA and moved to the Mid-West where I now reside with my husband and three children. We get to experience the true definition of every season here in MN and I love it! In my spare time I enjoy boating, camping, and spending time with family.
I have been in clerical work around Accounts Receivables, Accounts Payables and Finance for the past 15 years. I love the numbers. I have my AS in Business Management and Paralegal Studies. The challenges presented with my work keeps me engaged and motivated. The healthcare industry is changing and growing every day. I enjoy the behind the scenes of the moving parts in our business to provide the means for wonderful clinicians to service our clients.
Sky Taylor
Clinical Compliance Coordinator
My name is Sky Taylor. I am a Health care professional with 20 years of experience. I started out as a CNA in 2001 and have worked in many different clerical and Allied health positions. I am a certified Polysomnography Technologist, Clinical Research Coordinator, Laboratory Technician, and Healthcare Recruiter. I truly enjoy what I do! When I am not working as a healthcare professional. I spend my time Songwriting or painting. I am also a licensed Paramedical Tattoo Specialist in the state of Nevada and Georgia. To remain Zen, I practice yoga and believe in a simpler way of life. I enjoy helping others and relaxing with my 2 kids and dog.
Alysia Herrera
Clinical Recruiter
Hey ya’ll! My name is Alysia (Uh-lee-see-yuh). I’m from a tiny town in California and a big family. I joined the healthcare world in 2020 by trying out dental assisting, then went on to work with children with autism until I made my way into recruiting. I have enjoyed all of my education and experience. I love connecting with people and helping them continue their healthcare journey. If I’m not finding someone their next job, you could probably find me in the rom-com section of a bookstore or eating a cheeseburger by the beach!
Manat Ordanov
Clinical Recruiter
With a heart full of adventure and a passion for helping others, I’ve spent the last six years working as a recruiter, utilizing my skills and knowledge to help people in their careers. I am dedicated to finding the perfect match for each and every candidate. When I am not working, I love to indulge in my hobbies like snowboarding, scuba diving, traveling and dancing. The rush of adrenaline that comes with hurtling down a mountain on a snowboard or diving into the depths of the ocean is unmatched. I have always been passionate about exploring new places, cultures, and people, and I believe that traveling is one of the most powerful ways to broaden your horizons and learn about the world. I am grateful for all the opportunities and experiences that have come my way and I am excited to see what the future holds. I believe that with hard work and determination, anything is possible, and I look forward to continuing to grow and evolve as a person, as a parent, and as a professional.
Richard Ordonez
Clinical Recruiter
Hey everybody my name is Richard Ordonez! I was born and raised in California and I’ve been here my whole life so this is home for me. I graduated from San Francisco State University with my BA in Biology. This was a huge accomplishment for me given that I was the first in my family to earn a college degree. I’ve been in sales/healthcare recruiting for the past 2 years and I enjoy being able to help others excel their careers and develop into the best healthcare professionals they can be.
Aside from work, I love being outdoors and staying active. On the weekends I enjoy going on hikes and playing pick up soccer/basketball games. I’m also a big sports junkie so any chance I get to go watch the Giants, 49ers, or Warriors I jump on it.
Mohamad Qashamar
Sr. Clinical Recruiter
Hi my name is Mohamad, and I was born and raised in the vibrant city of Dallas, Texas.
My life is a blend of family togetherness, the excitement of watching my sports teams play, dedication to fitness, and the tranquility of nature. Whether it’s a backyard barbecue, fishing, or hitting the gym to stay fit and energized, I find joy in these simple pleasures.
Beyond my personal interests, I’ve been working as a travel nurse recruiter for several years, and I’m incredibly passionate about what I do. I’m able to help save so many people and lives. It’s very fulfilling to play a part in providing both healthcare professionals and facilities with the support they require, making a positive impact in the healthcare community.
Jessica Sam
Sr. Clinical Recruiter
Hi, my name is Jessica and I’m from Los Angeles, CA born and raised. I have 10 plus years of customer service and client success experience. I officially started my recruitment career in 2018 and since then I have been full cycle recruiting top talent throughout the US. In 2020 I made it into the healthcare recruitment industry, where my passion lies. I enjoy making both clients and candidates ecstatic about their future partnership, but perhaps even more satisfying is seeing a candidate’s growth. I’m happy to say that I’m in the business of caring.
When I’m not recruiting, I am very active with my family; basketball, football, working out, cooking, and from time to time a fun 3 marker drawing challenge or arts and crafts. However, when I’m not Jessica or mom, I am coach J and support our community youth in any way possible.
John Zavalza
Sr. Clinical Recruiter
My name is John and I have been connecting people with their next great opportunity since 2019. I graduated from Cal State University San Bernardino in 2019 and I truly had no idea which direction I wanted to go in with my Bachelors in Sociology. However, one thing I did know, is I wanted to make a difference in people’s lives, but I just didn’t know how. Then I accidentally applied for a healthcare recruiter position, and it has been Valhalla ever since. Not only do I make a difference in the lives of the patients that our nurses work with, but the nurses that I have the pleasure of serving as well. Having the opportunity to walk hand in hand with a medical professional through their career path has been the most rewarding experience I could have hoped for.
When I am not playing matchmaker between nurses and their next opportunity, you can find me frantically running after my 2-year-old daughter. I also enjoy spending time with family and friends going to the gym as well as being active with friends.
Kahlen Donatell
Sr. Clinical Recruiter
Kahlen here- but you can call me KD! Currently embracing the city life in Minneapolis with my dog Goose, weathering winters cheering for the Bucks, Packers, & whoever I started in fantasy football. Always down to get together with friends, hit up a concert, or opting for some quality Goose time.
Having worked in finance to start, I switched gears to recruiting a couple of years ago and found my niche helping healthcare professionals achieve their career goals. Getting the opportunity to interact with & meet new people is something I thoroughly enjoy.
Brittany Dandy
Sr. Rehab Recruiter
Hi Everyone,
My name is Brittany Dandy. I was born and raised in southern California. I enjoy traveling and spending time with my family. In my spare time, I love to cook. I also enjoy fashion and interior Design. I am a dog mom to a feisty 4-pound Yorkie named “Mucho”. I also enjoy binge-watching shows on Netflix or Hulu.
I have a total of 13 years of recruiting and management experience. During my tenure, I have 5 years of Healthcare Recruiting and 8 years of corporate recruitment experience. I primarily specialize in Rehab Recruiting. However, I also have experience in Floor Nursing, Behavioral Health, and Allied. Over the last 5 years, I have truly fallen in love with healthcare recruiting. I enjoy building genuine relationships with my providers. I take pride in being the type of recruiter my providers can always count on. I believe communication is key to a successful partnership. I am committed to continuous growth and development. My strength is innovative thinking, complex problem-solving, and Multitasking. Lastly, my goal is to make a positive impact in the healthcare community.
Tara Trigonis
Sr. Clinical Recruiter
Hello, my name is Tara Trigonis. I have been in healthcare staffing for five years. I am passionate about helping those in healthcare. I enjoy finding clinicians new roles in hospitals around the country. While working with you I will be sure to check in and make sure you have the most enjoyable time on your assignment. I am confident working with me will be filled with laughs and excitement.
I recently had a son named Grayson and I love to spend time with him. I live in central Florida and enjoy bringing the family to Disney and Universal for a fun day in the parks. When I’m not spending time with the family, I love to thrift and find good deals. We recently bought a home so decorating has become an exciting pastime. I decorate when the hubby is out in the sun doing yardwork, got to love the Florida heat.
Come work with me and we will have the time of our lives. I am always available to you to answer any questions and provide you with a good meme every once in a while.
Mackenzie Maier
Sr. Clinical Recruiter
My name is Mackenzie but everyone calls me Mack. I’m originally from Wisconsin but moved to San Diego about a year ago to escape the Midwest winters and live on the beach. I’ve been working in the healthcare recruiting space now for almost 1.5 years and previously worked in the pharma industry. In my spare time I enjoy going to the beach, traveling, and spending time with family/friends. I can’t wait to help you find your next travel gig and look forward to working with you!
Kerem Perk
Sr. Clinical Recruiter
I was born into a family of nurses in Eastern Europe and grew up hearing the craziest patient stories & hospital conditions of the late 90s. Naturally so I found my calling in recruiting during the worst days of the pandemic in 2020. As chaotic as that time was for all of us working in healthcare, this was a match made in heaven for me. I have a Marketing degree and a good understanding of its principles, allowing me to better help my team of clinicians reach their goals and continue our family tradition in some way. I’m aware of all the troubles of working on the floor, hence the least I can do is work my hardest to get you where you want to be. God knows I’d not be able to pass an Arrhythmia test..
When I’m not by my laptop working, I’m either looking up recipes from different cuisines or working out. I love to travel and was fortunate enough to live in France, Australia, and a few different regions in the U.S. before settling down in the beautiful Midwest. I’ve been residing in Minneapolis, MN for the past 7 years and yet continue to question this decision every winter. I LOVE meeting folks and exchanging stories, I’m sure we’ll have plenty to talk about!!
