 James ChisumCo-PresidentWith nearly two decades of experience in health care marketing, James has been with Orange County-based Miller Geer & Associates since joining the firm as an intern while earning his degree in communications with emphasis in advertising and consumer behavior from California State University, Fullerton. As VP of the boutique health care public relations agency, he has worked for some of the largest health care organizations in the US, and has led teams in all sectors, from hospitals, health systems and health insurers, to medical technology, pharmaceuticals and advocacy groups. Possessing a strong passion for all things healthcare communications-related, James recently served as a board member and digital communications co-chair for the Healthcare Public Relations and Marketing Association (HPRMA). He has also volunteered with the American Red Cross Orange County Chapter as a rotating Public Information Officer. When not chasing a headline or putting out a fire, he enjoys wrangling his three kids, lounging at the beach and finding other excuses to avoid honey-dos around the house. |
Jody SchneiderCo-PresidentJody Schneider is an award-winning public relations professional with significant experience in strategic marketing and media relations. Long standing leadership position with San Diego’s largest PR agency, along with independent consulting work has allowed her the opportunity to execute campaigns within B2B, lifestyle, hospitality, and nonprofit industries. As Associate Manager, Public Relations at the accredited, specialty laboratory, Millennium Health, Schneider oversees all public relations and social media efforts, in addition to developing and maintaining the company’s Corporate Social Responsibility program. She has served on numerous nonprofit Boards of Directors, including the Make-A-Wish Foundation. In addition to her role as co-president of the HCCSC, she is currently the Volunteer Recognition Coordinator for the Healthcare Businesswoman’s Association. |
Arika DanielsTreasurerArika Daniels the co-founder of Scatena Daniels a full-service, integrated communications agency and PR firm providing local, regional and national strategic campaigns for the healthcare, professional service and philanthropy industries. When she is not putting out PR fires or singing her clients’ praises, she can be found shuttling her three kids around for their extracurricular activities, wine tasting with her husband in Paso Robles or getting her blood flowing at the gym. |
Erin McHenry |
Poolak ForutanpourScholarship ChairPoolak Forutanpour has more than 15 years of internet marketing experience managing affiliate programs in various industries such as mortgage, insurance, pet supply and ink and toner products. She earned her Master in English Literature and published her first novelette in 2017 titled, “Stories I Left Behind.” It depicts her life growing up in California as a first generation Iranian-American in the mid-80s and how her life was shaped through the influence of her mother, a Registered Nurse. Poolak enjoys reading, going to the gym and spending time with her husband and boy/girl twins. |
Jennifer Baskerville
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 Julieun KawasakiWebsite ChairWith over 20 years of marketing leadership experience, Julieun specializes in developing, launching, and scaling health, retail, and environmental brands across DTC, B2C, and B2B markets. She has a proven track record of delivering growth-focused strategies that drive measurable results and long-term brand equity. Her portfolio includes work with industry-leading brands such as Western Dental & Orthodontics, Brident, DentalWorks, US HealthWorks (now part of Concentra), Sprouts, Target, Nike, Nordstrom, and The Cheesecake Factory. Whether optimizing omni-channel campaigns or deploying scalable digital ecosystems, Julieun brings a performance-driven mindset to every initiative. |
Erin Purnell A self-proclaimed word nerd, Erin is a passionate healthcare storyteller and communicator. As Sr. Internal Communication Specialist at City of Hope Orange County, she leads internal communications, helping shape the organization's culture through impactful messaging and staff engagement events. Previously, Erin held roles at Providence, both at Mission Hospital and at the divisional level. With experience activating new facilities, managing social media and PR, and crafting integrated communication strategies, Erin is dedicated to amplifying the heroic stories that are the hallmark of healthcare. In her free time, you’ll often find Erin under the orange lights enjoying an Orangetheory Fitness class or spending quality time with family and friends. |
Ryan Nishimoto As a marketing and partnership manager with a proven track record in demand generation and multi-channel strategies, I bring a unique blend of data-driven decision-making, client-centric execution, and creative marketing insight. I’ve successfully managed 250+ sponsor and startup relationships across major Tech and MedTech events—spanning Medical Aesthetics, Ophthalmology, and Cardiovascular Technology—where I’ve consistently built high-impact partnerships and driven meaningful engagement. Passionate about continuous learning and staying ahead of industry trends, I thrive in fast-paced environments and bring strategic agility to teams aiming to elevate their brand presence and cultivate high-performing, long-term relationships. |
Andrew WertsNonprofit Incorporation & SHSMD Affiliate DirectorAndrew received his BA in Psychology from Gettysburg College and his MSBA from San Francisco State University. Andrew has spent the last 15 years of his career working in the marketing and advertising field and is currently the Director of Marketing and Communications at Providence Little Company of Mary Torrance and San Pedro Medical Centers. Andrew is also on the executive leadership counsel for the American Heart Association in the South Bay. He is a long time South Bay resident and enjoys spending time with his family and friends. |  Christina CampoPast-President & AdvisorChristina has more than 20 years experience in the medical field. Currently she is the product manager and administrator for SalesForce products at Scripps Health. She previously held a role as project manager for health care marketing campaigns and data analysis during her time with Scripps. Christina is passionate about classic cars, good wine and meditation. | OpenVice President, Communications LiaisonOpen |
