PORTLAND, Ore. (Oct. 30, 2020)—The National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM) Board of Directors announced Friday the appointment of Melanie Henriksen, ND, LAc, CNM, as interim president of the university. Dr. Henriksen returns to her alma mater after previously serving as residency director, associate dean of naturopathic medicine, attending physician, dean of naturopathic medicine, and most recently, chief medical officer. Dr. Henriksen will begin transitioning into the new role Nov. 2, assuming full-time duties effective Jan. 1, 2021.
The Board and interview team, which included student, faculty, staff and administrative representation, informed the final decision to select Dr. Henriksen. Her depth of past experience with the university along with her clear understanding of the current challenges facing NUNM positions her well to balance the pressing financial needs of the institution according to the mission and values of NUNM, and provide the ongoing support needed for faculty, students and patients. Dr. Henriksen’s dedication and passion for NUNM and natural medicine has been invaluable to the community and her broad skill set in teaching, delivery of health care, and leadership in professional organizations will be an asset to the university.
After graduating in 2005 from NUNM’s naturopathic and Chinese medicine programs, and natural childbirth/midwifery program, Dr. Henriksen completed her residency at NUNM and then established her private practice as a licensed primary care physician and acupuncturist. In 2009, she received a Master of Nursing degree from Oregon Health & Science University and became certified as a nurse midwife.
As an integrative medicine leader with an extensive and diverse administrative, educational, and clinical background, Dr. Henriksen values the importance of collaboration, communication, and organizational effectiveness. Along with her significant experience at NUNM as a clinician and administrator, Dr. Henriksen has worked in the conventional medical model where she is currently employed as a nurse midwife at Kaiser Permanente. She is passionate about integrative health care, collaborative medicine, and evidence-informed practice.
Dr. Henriksen is a former president and treasurer of the Association of Accredited Naturopathic Medical Colleges (AANMC). She is currently a board member of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians (AANP) and continues to participate in numerous health advocacy groups.