About Obesity Medicine Association
We are clinical leaders in obesity medicine who work to advance the prevention, treatment, and reversal of the disease of obesity.
What We Offer
The Obesity Medicine Association (OMA) is the largest organization of physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and other health care providers working every day to improve the lives of patients affected by obesity. OMA members are clinical experts in obesity medicine. They use a comprehensive, scientific, and individualized approach when treating obesity, which helps patients achieve their health and weight goals. OMA offers resources, education, and community to physicians and other health care providers in the field of obesity medicine.
Membership
Join the OMA today to gain specialized knowledge to deliver obesity treatments; build lifelong relationships with peers, mentors, colleagues, and friends; and find the tools you need to run a successful practice and advance your career in obesity medicine.
Education
Customize your obesity medicine education and access the entire on-demand library of CME, ABOM Exam study materials, handouts, and other practical resources in the Obesity Medicine Academy.
Advocacy
Use your voice to represent individuals who are affected by the disease of obesity. Learn how you can work to increase access to safe and effective obesity treatment and fight to eliminate bias toward those living with obesity.
The Four Pillars of Clinical Obesity Treatment
The four pillars of clinical obesity treatment are nutrition therapy, physical activity, behavioral modification, and medical interventions.
When combined and personalized, treatment plans involving the four pillars help patients lose weight and achieve better overall health.
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Nutrition Therapy
The most appropriate Nutritional Therapy for the treatment of obesity is one that is safe, effective, and easy for patients to follow. Nutritional Therapy is customized for patients based on their medical conditions, cultural background, and other influences.
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Physical Activity
As part of a comprehensive obesity treatment plan, physical activity maintains two goals: to increase patients’ energy expenditure while decreasing physical inactivity. Physical activity helps to improve body composition as well as non-adipose consequences such as cardiometabolic and mental health.
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Behavioral Modification
Behavioral modification therapy includes frequent encounters with qualified medical professionals, education, stimulus control, cognitive restructuring, goal setting, self-monitoring, problem solving, social support, and more.
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Medical Interventions
Medical Interventions consist of various clinical treatments including anti-obesity medications, metabolic and bariatric surgery, and endoscopic procedures. As part of a comprehensive obesity care plan, these interventions can be highly effective in the treatment of obesity.
Read MoreConsensus Statement on Obesity Treatment
Every person with obesity should have access to evidence-based treatment.
The collaborative effort of six U.S. organizations dedicated to the prevention and treatment of obesity aims to address the various roadblocks that organizations face when addressing efforts to improve access to obesity treatment and reduce weight stigma and bias surrounding the disease.
OMA Staff
The Obesity Medicine Association staff are dedicated professionals committed to furthering the mission of the OMA, helping OMA members, and improving the lives of patients with obesity via worldwide initiatives - with a special focus on high quality education.
Teresa Fraker, FACHE, RN, CPHQ, CBN
Executive Director
Teresa Fraker, FACHE, RN, CPHQ, CBN, is the Executive Director (ED) for the Obesity Medicine Association (OMA). Previously, she was the Program Administrator for the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) at the American College of Surgeons (ACS) in Chicago, IL. Teresa received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from the University of Iowa in Iowa City, IA, and her Master of Science in Health Services Administration from the University of St. Francis in Joliet, IL.
Teresa previously held certifications in both oncology as well as bariatric nursing, and she has worked in multiple clinical areas over the last 30 years of her career in the areas of women's health, breast cancer, perinatal services, and bariatric surgery. Prior to her role at ACS, she worked as a hospital administrator with oversight of multiple hospital-based outpatient departments.
Professionally, Teresa is extensively involved with the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) as well as the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE). In addition, she has previously served the states of Illinois and Iowa as a Baldridge Examiner for quality-related endeavors.
Mark Agcaoili
Manager of Business Development and Sales
Mark earned his bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Colorado at Boulder. Before joining the OMA team in June 2023, he spent over nine years as an orthopedic trauma medical device sales consultant for Johnson & Johnson and Arthrex. As Manager of Business Development & Sales, he is able to continue his passion for helping healthcare professionals treat their patients better. Mark’s favorite activities include spending time with his family, skiing, cycling and traveling.
Emma Blackwood
Senior Manager for Conference Education
Emma earned her Bachelor’s degree in Communications from the University of San Diego. After spending ten years in San Diego, she moved to Denver while continuing her career in the event field. Emma has been a part of companies putting on events ranging from fundraising galas, golf tournaments, and concerts to national in-person and virtual conferences and events.
Emma enjoys spending her free time outdoors with activities like trail running, hiking, soccer, skiing, backpacking, and most importantly, laughing with her family and adventuring with her husband and son.
Rachel Coy
Public Relations and Content Marketing Specialist
Rachel earned her Bachelor's degree in Journalism and Media Communications with an additional Bachelor's degree in Communications from Colorado State University. Before joining OMA, she worked as a Marketing Coordinator within the real estate industry. In her free time, Rachel is either in the mountains with family or in the city with friends. Her interests include theater, music, cycling and golfing.
Christian DeSousa
Director of Membership and Engagement
Christian earned his bachelor’s degree in management information systems from the University of South Florida. Before joining the OMA staff in January 2020, he spent over eleven years at a pharmaceutical association, with the last nine years leading a membership services team. He currently works as the Director of Membership and Engagement. Christian’s favorite activities include spending time with his wife and kids, traveling, sports, and anything outdoors.
Joan Hablutzel, CMP, PMP, HMCC
Senior Director of Education, Events, and Operations
Joan has been in the healthcare industry for over 17 years. She has spent the last six years working for associations developing healthcare operations best practices and educational content. Prior to that, she served as Director of Operations for a large health system where she oversaw the strategic and daily operations for multiple outpatient medical practices. Joan has a vast array of experience from academic, private, hospital-based, and hospital-owned medical groups. Joan holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin, a Master’s degree in Business Administration with a Health Administration focus from the University of Colorado, as well as credentials as a Project Management Professional (PMP) and a Fellow in the American College of Medical Practice Executives (FACMPE).
Diane Hawken
Membership Services Coordinator
Diane grew up in Dallas, TX, and obtained a Bachelor of Science in Hotel, Restaurant, & Institutional Management (RHIM) from Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas. Diane has lived in the Denver area since 1996, except for a 4-year relocation to Austin, Texas. When the opportunity came to relocate back to Colorado and be closer to family, she moved from Austin back to Colorado. Diane’s diverse background includes working for medical associations (including the American Society of Bariatric Physicians), hotel and restaurant management, being a licensed realtor, and working in the educational field.
Diane’s interests include digital scrapbooking, hiking, horses, and travel. She enjoys the mountains and loves the Colorado atmosphere.
Jennifer Johnson
Education Coordinator
Jennifer is a Florida native who lived in Europe for 23 years before moving to Boulder, Colorado, in 2015. Jennifer received her Bachelor of Science degree in Advertising from the University of Florida and a Certificate in Training and Development from Wolverhampton University in England. Prior to joining OMA, Jennifer was the online education project manager for a media company covering multiple active lifestyle brands. She is an experienced marketer, copywriter, and internal communications specialist. Jennifer is also an exhibiting artist, and when she’s not in her studio creating abstract mixed-media paintings, she can be found exploring the US in her travel van, hiking with her Goldendoodle, gardening, or cooking for family and friends.
Alexa Medara
Membership Services Manager
Alexa joined the Obesity Medicine Association in December 2020 with six years of experience in Revenue Cycle Management. Teamwork makes the dream work, is her favorite quote, and she is no stranger to working on various projects. She has experience in credentialing, auditing, hospitality, and many other areas. Moving to Colorado has opened up many doors in her career, and she is looking forward to playing a vital role on the membership and customer service team at OMA.
In her free time, Alexa enjoys trying new recipes, volunteering in her community, and spending time with her loved ones.
Jessica Oliver, PMP
Partnerships and Projects Manager
Jessica graduated from Boise State University with a B.A. in Mass Communications. Her interests led her to careers in helping others. Prior to joining the OMA, Jessica spent 6.5 years - 1.5 of those as their Executive Director - advocating for the dentists in the state of Idaho at the Idaho State Dental Association. In her time there, she gained an admiration for association membership, advocacy, and education. She also has experience in consulting, strategic planning, higher education, sales, and leadership development. Jessica recently accomplished her Project Management Professional (PMP) certification in 2023.
Jessica is a Colorado native passionate about downhill skiing, Peloton, and blue & orange Broncos (Boise State & Denver!). In her free time, you’ll find her at the park with her two young girls – Kennedy & Madison, her husband Dan, and her dog Moose.
Stephanie Orr, CMP
Conferences and Events Manager
After earning her bachelor’s degree in Business Management from the University of Northern Iowa, Stephanie relocated to Denver, CO, to pursue a career in meeting and event management. She brings over 20 years of experience from the meetings and events industry to serve as OMA’s Conferences and Events Manager for OMA in 2022. In her spare time, she enjoys going to concerts and sporting events with her husband, finding time to travel for fun, trying to replicate grandma’s recipes in the kitchen, or hanging out with her two bulldogs.
Taylor Peters
Membership Marketing Specialist
Taylor holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Colorado State University. Prior to joining OMA, she gained valuable experience as a Marketing Coordinator in a nonprofit serving the mining and tunneling industry. Outside of work, Taylor enjoys quality time with her dog, golfing with friends, spending time with family, and indulging in her favorite TV series.
Debbie Robichaud
CME and Grants Manager
Debbie holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and is pursuing a Master’s in Business Administration from Regis University.
She has spent over 20 years working for healthcare associations overseeing accreditation, certification, and credentialing programs. With an extensive background in professional development and certification, Debbie has a commitment to seeing individuals succeed and reach their goals.
Debbie enjoys spending her free time hiking the Colorado trails, playing with her three dogs, and relaxing with her husband. Weekends are spent reading, gardening, or cooking.
Katy Rudzinski
Director of Marketing
Katy holds a Master of Arts in Communication Management with a concentration in Marketing from the University of Denver. Her professional experience prior to joining OMA includes leading marketing and communications for healthcare and nonprofit organizations. Outside of work, Katy enjoys spending time with her husband and four daughters.
Reina Sandoval
Membership Services Coordinator
Reina is a Membership Services Coordinator for the Obesity Medicine Association. Prior to OMA, Reina specialized in loan operations and customer service. With OMA, she is continuing to help people at the forefront while gaining knowledge in a field she loves. In her spare time, she spends lots of time with family, staying active and exploring nature.
Stephanie Smith
Digital Education Manager
Stephanie earned her Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Northern Colorado. She was born on the East Coast but moved to Colorado as a baby with her family and considers herself a true Coloradoan. Prior to joining OMA, Stephanie worked as an education and training coordinator for multiple companies and assisted with putting on events ranging from in-person learning events, webinars, golf tournaments, and employee engagement events.
Stephanie enjoys spending her free time outdoors running, hiking with her two dogs, or just soaking in the sunshine. She also enjoys cooking with her husband and is an avid traveler.
Katie Tiss
Operations Specialist
Katie serves as OMA's Operations Specialist. She is very excited to be a part of the OMA team! She lives in Denver, CO, and moved from Rochester, NY in 2006.
She has an extensive background in health and wellness, having gone through her weight loss transformation 20 years ago. Since then, she has worked with a wide variety of individuals on their health, wellness, fitness, and mindset goals. She has worked with folks as a weight loss coach, personal trainer, and a physician assistant in an Integrative Medicine office and currently teaches yoga (and piano as well). She loves to help people get out of their way and cultivate a mindset of presence and self-love. She is truly passionate about helping people be their healthiest selves!
Katie is a mom of two and enjoys hiking, skiing, stand-up paddle boarding, all things yoga, and getting outdoors and enjoying all the beauty of the Rocky Mountains.
Niche Veraldi
Multimedia Design Manager
Niche earned his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Media Production from Texas A&M University. Before joining the OMA staff in 2023, he worked as a digital content producer in sports media for four years before transitioning into nonprofit work. Most recently, Niche spent two years with Hope House Colorado working in marketing. He enjoys telling a story through well-designed projects. Outside of work, Niche likes spending his free time cooking, golfing, and spending time with his wife & their three pets.
Renee Worthington
Membership Services Coordinator
Renee is a Member Services Coordinator at OMA, bringing valuable experience from her previous role as an administrator at a home healthcare agency. Passionate about supporting healthcare professionals in their mission to care for others, she is dedicated to ensuring smooth operations and excellent service. Outside of work, Renee enjoys spending time with her family, especially on camping trips and hiking adventures.
Nicholas Pennings, DO, DABOM, MFOMA, FACOFP, FAAFP
Clinical Education Director
Nicholas Pennings, DO, DABOM, MFOMA, FACOFP, FAAFP, is board certified with fellowship designation in Family Medicine and master fellow in Obesity Medicine. He is chair and associate professor of family medicine at the Jerry M. Wallace School of Osteopathic Medicine at Campbell University. He serves as the medical director of the Campbell University Health Center. Additional roles include serving as Executive Director of Clinical Education for the Obesity Medicine Association. He is a graduate of the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed his family medicine residency at Metropolitan Hospital - Parkview division. Dr. Pennings is a champion for advancing the education of health professionals through the development of core competencies in obesity medicine education and incorporation of obesity education into medical education via live and virtual platforms.
Kirsten Frederiksen, MD, MSc, FACP, FOMA, DABOM
Clinical Education Director
Kirsten Frederiksen, MD, MSc, FACP, FOMA, DABOM, is an internist and obesity medicine specialist with over 20 years of experience. She has a Master’s in Health Policy and Management from Harvard University and completed medical school at the University of Rochester School of Medicine, where she was elected to the AOA Medical Honor Society and received the American Medical Women's Association Janet M. Glasgow Memorial Achievement Award. Dr. Frederiksen has served as the founding Program Director for two large Obesity Medicine practices, including one combined with a bariatric surgery practice in a health system, as a Director at a national, telemedicine-based obesity medicine practice, and is the Founder and CEO of Obesia Health, an online consulting company. She is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians and of the Obesity Medicine Association, serves as Chair of the Bariatric Medicine/Surgery Committee for the OMA, and as OMA's Co-Director of Clinical Education.
Contact Obesity Medicine Association
Reach out to connect with the OMA Membership Services team.