College of Health Professions

Friday, May 23, 2025 @ 3:00pm

Academic Processional

“Processional of Joy”

Invocation

The Rev. Jen Rude, University Pastor

Greetings

Joanna Gregson, Provost, Professor of Sociology
Allan Belton, President
David Ward, Dean of the College of Health Professions

Reflection

Annika Cha Thach, Student Speaker

Commencement Address

Amanda Bieber-Mayberry, ’04, LICSW

Conferral of Degrees

Allan Belton, President

Closing Comments

Allan Belton, President

Prayer and Benediction

The Rev. Jen Rude, University Pastor

Recessional

“Processional of Joy”

Director of Behavioral Health Services

Amanda Bieber-Mayberry, MSW, LICSW, is an accomplished professional with a robust background in social work leadership and behavioral health care. Currently serving as the Director of Behavioral Health at Elevance Health, Amanda oversees clinical case management and utilization management programs in Washington and Texas. She is responsible for innovating and implementing clinical strategies that align with emerging healthcare models while ensuring adherence to regulatory standards.

Prior to her role at Elevance Health, Amanda held positions as Director of Clinical Services at Wellfound Behavioral Health Hospital and Chief of Social Work Service at the Department of Veterans Affairs. Her extensive experience includes developing policies, managing complex care programs, and fostering strategic partnerships to enhance care delivery. Amanda holds a Master of Social Work with a concentration in Leadership for Community and Organizational Practice from the University of Denver and a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Pacific Lutheran University. She is also a licensed independent clinical social worker in Washington State.

Annika Chan Thach (she/her)

Degree: Doctor of Nursing Practice
Hometown: Tacoma, WA
Why PLU? I chose PLU because it was close to home, had a strong reputation for nursing, and it’s where my older sister also graduated. Returning for my doctorate felt like a full-circle moment, especially after completing my undergraduate degree here in 2020 without the chance to walk at graduation due to the pandemic. This was my redemption.
What is your fondest memory of PLU? My fondest memories are the deep connections I formed with my cohort, clinical preceptors, and professors. After the isolation of the pandemic, being able to build community again through shared challenges and growth has been incredibly meaningful. These are lifelong friendships I’ll always cherish.
What’s next for you? I’ve accepted a position at a family medicine clinic in Auburn and will begin my career as a family nurse practitioner after passing my board exams. I’m passionate about serving diverse and underserved communities, and I hope to one day return to the classroom — as a professor —to mentor the next generation of nurses and nurse practitioners.