Please join us in welcoming:
College of Arts & Humanities
Alison Graham Larson, Associate Professor of Criminal Justice
Alison Graham Larson earned her BA in Political Science from Northwest Nazarene University and her J.D. from the University of Utah. She has extensive experience in law, public service and advocacy, with her career spanning legal practice and teaching. Alison’s inspiration for higher education began during her undergraduate years at NNU, where the seeds of her interest in justice and civil rights were planted. Two years ago, she returned to NNU as a faculty member, teaching Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, which further confirmed her desire to contribute to the field of criminal justice education. She is excited to continue shaping the criminal justice program at NNU, offering students both legal expertise and a passion for justice. Outside of work, Alison enjoys spending time with her nieces and nephews and traveling with her husband, Mike.
Adam Petersen, Assistant Professor of History
Adam Petersen earned his Ph.D. in History from Marquette University, where his research and teaching focused on American history, cultural identity and historical memory. His academic journey also includes graduate and undergraduate study in history, equipping him with both depth and breadth in the field. Adam has presented at conferences and published work exploring how history shapes contemporary society. He was inspired to pursue higher education because of his belief that history provides critical context for understanding the present and cultivating thoughtful citizens. At NNU, Adam is most excited to guide students in engaging with history not only as an academic discipline but also as a way of shaping their own perspectives and calling. Outside of the classroom, he enjoys reading, outdoor adventures and spending time with family.
College of Behavioral & Social Sciences
Rebekah Ponsford-Hall, Associate Professor of Psychology
Rebekah Ponsford-Hall earned her Psy.D. in Clinical Psychology and has spent many years teaching as an adjunct professor, including time at NNU. She and her husband Jeff also run a private practice, where they work with individuals and families in counseling and therapy. Her love for students and teaching has fueled her career in higher education, and she values the opportunity to combine flexibility in her professional life with meaningful classroom engagement. Rebekah is especially excited to help launch and grow NNU’s psychology program, preparing students for impactful careers in mental health. She brings both academic knowledge and real-world experience that deeply enriches her teaching. Outside of the classroom, Rebekah enjoys art, dance, reading and writing.
Roxanne Printz, Program Director of Social Work, Associate Professor
Roxanne Printz earned her MSW and brings extensive experience in both micro and macro-level social work, spanning public and private settings. She has worked with individuals, families and organizations to address a wide range of social issues, with a focus on empowering people and building strong communities. Roxanne was inspired to pursue higher education because of her belief in the transformative power of education to launch solid professionals who can make a difference in the world. Drawn to NNU’s Christian environment, she is excited to direct and grow the social work program while mentoring students to integrate faith, service and professional practice. Outside of her academic work, Roxanne enjoys working on house projects and spending time with her husband.
College of Natural & Applied Sciences
JJ Bowerman, Assistant Professor of Mathematics
JJ Bowerman earned her BS in Secondary Education with a Math Emphasis and has spent the last several years teaching at both the high school and college level. Her experience includes four years teaching high school mathematics and one year as an adjunct faculty member at NNU, where she discovered a deep passion for working with college students. JJ was inspired to pursue higher education because of the unique way mathematics blends logic and creativity, offering students both challenge and discovery. Drawn to NNU’s welcoming community, she is excited to help students grow in confidence and ability while fostering a love for problem-solving. Outside the classroom, JJ enjoys playing board games and volleyball.
College of Nursing
Phyllis Morris, Associate Professor of Nursing
Phyllis Morris earned her MSN and BSN, in addition to her RN, and has extensive professional experience in clinical nursing and nursing education. Her work has spanned multiple areas of healthcare, equipping her with both breadth of practice and a passion for patient-centered care. Phyllis was inspired to pursue higher education because of her desire to invest in the next generation of nurses, ensuring they enter the profession with both skill and compassion. At NNU, she is most excited to join a Christ-centered community where she can mentor and support students in becoming not only excellent practitioners but also leaders of integrity. In her spare time, Phyllis enjoys reading, walking, gardening and spending time outdoors.
Samantha Phillips, Assistant Professor of Nursing
Samantha Phillips earned her MSN, BSN and RN, and brings significant experience as a nurse and educator. She has worked in a variety of healthcare settings, providing direct patient care while also equipping students in classroom and clinical environments. Samantha’s inspiration to pursue higher education stems from her love of teaching and her desire to prepare students to serve others with both knowledge and compassion. Drawn to NNU’s mission and values, she is excited to encourage and mentor nursing students as they grow academically, professionally and spiritually. Beyond her work, Samantha enjoys outdoor recreation, creative projects and time spent with friends and family.
Bryana Smith, Program Director of FNP and Associate Professor of Nursing
Bryana Smith earned her DNP, MSN, FNP-C, BSN and RN credentials, bringing a strong foundation in nursing practice and leadership. She has extensive experience in hands-on primary care, particularly in pediatrics and family health, where she has worked closely with patients and families to provide holistic care. Her decision to pursue higher education stems from her belief that education opens doors and transforms lives, especially in the nursing profession where the impact extends far beyond the classroom. Bryana was drawn to NNU because of its alignment with her deepest passions—faith, education and service. She is most excited about equipping future nurse practitioners with the knowledge, skills and values to provide compassionate, effective care. In her free time, Bryana enjoys reading, traveling, and exploring new places through books and adventures alike.
NNU is excited to welcome each of these individuals as they join a committed group of faculty and staff members dedicated to investing in the academic, spiritual and social growth of NNU students.
