Our Foundation Staff
Donald R. Yance ~ Founder, President, Mederi Center Lead Clinician
Donald “Donnie” R. Yance is a Clinical Master Herbalist and Certified Nutritionist renowned for his extraordinary knowledge and deep understanding of the healing properties of plants and nutrition, as well as epigenetics, laboratory medicine, oncologic pathology, and molecular oncology. He is a professional member of the American Herbalists Guild and the National Association of Nutrition Professionals. He is also professed as a Secular Franciscan, which equips him with the breadth and wisdom to touch on the spiritual aspects of healing. Donnie conducts his clinical practice at the Mederi Center in Ashland, Oregon utilizing his unique integrative model known as the Eclectic Triphasic Medical System (ETMS) or “Mederi Medicine”, which he evolved over more than twenty years of successful patient care. The ETMS model elegantly combines his passion for the latest scientific research with the wisdom of ancient healing traditions, resulting in a compassionate, creative, intelligent, and effective approach to healing. As a visionary leader, mentor, teacher, author, and healer, Donnie’s methodology has transformed thousands of lives and is carried out through the mission and programs of the Mederi Foundation.
Jennifer Yance, Co-Founder ~ Executive Director
Jennifer Yance's work at the threshold of the organization has been a key element to its growth and accomplishments. With her impassioned determination and an aura of inspiration, she oversees and directs the fundraising, clinical, research, and education programs and gracefully guides the organization in serving its mission.
Jennifer’s business acumen, effective leadership, and deep commitment to healthy living contribute to her ability to help the organization reach its highest potential for serving humanity.
Pauleen Miller ~ Chief Financial Officer
Pauleen serves as a key member of the Executive Leadership Team. As a true business partner to the Executive Director, Pauleen plays a critical role in developing strategic initiatives and overseeing the operational and financial aspects of the organization.
Claire McKenzie ~ Director of Administration
With her natural proclivity toward compassionate communication and emotional intelligence, Claire is integral to creating a cohesive work environment for the Foundation and the Clinic staff at Mederi. In addition to her ability to support a positive work culture, Claire’s detailed analytical thinking helps to ensure the smooth running of operations for the administrative team. This includes overseeing process and procedures across teams and departments, as well as business strategy, functions, and systems.
Claire’s management skills apply to several areas of our organization, including human resources, finance/accounting, and donor relations, and in her capacity as a member of the leadership team. As the hub of our day-to-day activities, Claire brings a heartful approach to supporting the team, providing coaching, as well as advocating for professional and interpersonal development as a means to enhance job satisfaction and performance.
Andrea Luchese ~ Marketing & Communications Manager
In her role as Mederi’s Marketing & Communications Manager, Andrea is responsible for advancing the business development objectives of the Clinic and Foundation by overseeing and implementing marketing strategy, branding, communications, creative direction and design, social media, public relations, and event publicity. She brings a passion for supporting the Mederi mission of helping people live healthier, longer lives through sharing our story of inspiration and hope with patients, practitioners, and donors.
Andrea joined our team in 2019 from her prior fourteen-year tenure as senior member of the marketing team at our affiliate company, Natura Health Products. Andrea has a Master of Arts degree in Integral Dance with a focus on Dance & Spirituality and is the founder and president of an Ashland-based 501c3 Hawaiian cultural arts and preservation organization.
Andrea ("Andi") Malden ~ Executive Assistant / Mederi Academy Program Coordinator
Andrea ("Andi") Malden brings an enthusiastic and positive spirit to our work environment. Her years of professional experience in developing and managing business operations, plus her many roles in customer service (reception, administration, events, sales) have equipped Andi with a comprehensive skill set that makes her an invaluable asset to the Yance's at the Executive Assistant, and to the Mederi Foundation team as the Mederi Academy Program Coordinator. Prior to coming to Mederi, Andi worked in student administration and event management for a holistic healing company, helping with their certification and teacher training programs. She assisted students, staff, and faculty with logistical and administrative needs to ensure smooth and efficient operations. Andi has also worked in office and operations management for health clinics and retail outlets.
Andi's diverse skill set and ability to contribute support in a kind, efficient manner, along with her years of experience in accuracy-oriented work environments has honed her many administrative and project-management skills. With her highly organized, detailed, and resourceful approach, Andi can get any job done!
