Nurses
Duronda Twigg
Registered Nurse, Chief Nursing Officer
Duronda's Sunshine career spans back to the 90s and Duronda brings a wealth of experience and a profound dedication to the well-being of our community. Her passion for community, nutrition, sustainability, and connection shines through in everything she does. As the overseer of our exceptional nursing team, Duronda leads with kindness, compassion, creativity, and innovation, shaping a healthier tomorrow for all. With her boundless heart and unwavering commitment, Duronda is a driving force behind our mission to provide top-notch healthcare with a personal touch.
Lynne Williams, RN
Layla Micheli, LPN
Samantha Bell, LPN
Sara Heller, LPN
Sara Heller, LPN
"Sara was gentle and persistent to get the wax out of my ear. After a week of not hearing, I had given up, I thought it was a goner! Warm water and gentle persistence won it back."
Layla Micheli, LPN
"Layla is really caring and does a professional job. She did excellent wound care for my husband."
Behavioral Health
Sunshine Community Health Center’s Behavioral Health Team is committed to providing evidenced-based treatments to help you accomplish your goals. Our person-centered, trauma-focused approach always puts you in the forefront to make decisions about your treatment and take strides to apply a recovery-oriented approach to our care-delivery. Our services can be provided in various formats: in-person, virtual, or in a group setting. We utilize various tools and technology to meet each patient’s unique needs, while also helping our clients obtain resources to improve their ability to relate and function in the world around them. We look forward to meeting and working with you to meet your mental health needs. Give us a call today to hear about our group schedule and provider availability.
Ryan Romans
Director of Health Equity and Social Determinants of Health Services
Meet Ryan Romans, our Director of Health Equity and Social Determinants of Health Services at Sunshine Community Health Center. With a keen focus on the interconnectedness of our lives beyond healthcare appointments, Ryan leads our exceptional care management team in identifying ways to support the holistic well-being of our community. Passionate about the vitality of small towns, Ryan brings a unique blend of fun, creativity, and compassion to his role. With a big heart and a commitment to nurturing community growth and well-being, Ryan is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of those we serve.
Lynne Williams
RN Care Manager III
Helen Michaelson,
Care Manager
Lori Proctor,
Patient Advocate II
Renee O'Hara-Barnard
Dental Manager
Renee, a native of Trapper Creek, returned to her hometown in 2017 with a deep-seated commitment to contribute to its welfare. A graduate of Susitna Valley High School's class of 2004, Renee embarked on her journey with Sunshine Community Health Center (SCHC) in 2018, initially serving as front desk staff before transitioning into the dental department. Amidst the myriad challenges facing the dental team, Renee's steadfast dedication and leadership have been instrumental in fostering a resilient and cohesive unit. With an unwavering optimism for the future, she remains poised to deliver exceptional dental care to the northern valley. Outside of her professional endeavors, Renee finds joy in skiing and fishing alongside her husband and three children. Her passion extends to her household, where she tends to her two dogs, twelve chickens, and nurtures aspirations of beekeeping and owning a miniature cow. Alongside her role at SCHC, Renee operates a small home bakery, delighting the community with her delectable creations.
Casey Bowen
Doctorate of Medical Dentistry
Casey was born and raised here in Alaska. He graduated from Midwestern University in Glendale, Arizona in 2021 with his Doctorate of Medical Dentistry. He has four amazing children and a wonderful wife who also love Alaska and the great outdoors. He knew he wanted to come back to Alaska to serve the people in his community. He loves getting to know his patients and helping them get the best care that they need.
Robert Lerner
Doctorate of Dental Surgery
Dr. Robert Lerner is a dedicated dentist at Sunshine Community Health Center with a strong educational background and a passion for patient care. He completed his undergraduate studies in biology at Oklahoma State University from 1985 to 1989 and earned his dental degree from Creighton University School of Dentistry from 1989 to 1993. Dr. Lerner has been married to Tina since February 2024; she works in land management at UAA. They have two children: Bristol, who works in behavioral health at ANMC, and Chase, a commercial fisherman. Outside of his professional life, Dr. Lerner enjoys hunting, fishing, and traveling.
Traci Martinson
Registered Dental Hygienist
Traci is a long-time local who continues to serve Sunshine Community Health Center daily, brightening the smiles of our Northern Valley Communities. As a Registered Dental Hygienist, Traci is responsible for providing preventive dental care, performing thorough cleanings, educating patients on oral hygiene practices, and assisting with the early detection of dental issues. Her expertise and commitment help ensure that patients maintain healthy, confident smiles.