We Are Healthcare Pathway Advocates
At Healthcare Pathway Advocates we emerged from the pioneering work of Health Science Career Pathway Advocates, an ambitious initiative launched in 2019 under the leadership of Paul DeBaldo and Rick Damelio. Established to address the critical healthcare workforce gap in California’s Mother Lode Region, our organization has grown through the dedication of school and business leaders committed to transformative change. Today, we continue to expand our impact by creating and sustaining comprehensive health science career pathways—empowering students with the skills, support, and opportunities they need to pursue meaningful careers and strengthen the future of healthcare in our rural communities
Our Mission
To transform the future of rural healthcare by equipping and empowering students from underserved communities with the skills, mentorship, and opportunities needed to launch successful allied health careers. We break down barriers, foster innovation, and build sustainable pathways that connect education to meaningful employment—creating a diverse, locally rooted healthcare workforce that strengthens our communities.
Our Vision
We envision thriving rural communities where every young person has the opportunity and support to pursue a fulfilling, high-impact career in healthcare. Through innovative partnerships, hands-on learning, and unwavering advocacy, we aim to become the leading model for building equitable, seamless pipelines from classroom to career—ensuring health, opportunity, and hope for generations to come.
Paul De Baldo, MBA
Retired Business and Market Developer
Paul is a retired Business and Market Developer, with decades of Accomplished Partnering in the US and European Markets. After receiving his Masters Degree (MBA), in 1962 at Michigan State University; Paul spent 15 years with IBM, in New York State..... in Sales, Product Development, and Market Creation.
In the late 70's he was asked to join IBM's new Subsidiary Satellite Business Systems to manage advanced digital markets and new business development. In this Context, his major role was to introduce Video Conferencing Technology in the US and Europe. In the 80's Paul was recruited to join a Start - Up Video product company in San Jose Ca. as VP Marketing & Sales for their digital Compression technology products.
Paul has chosen to leverage his Marketing and Partnering experiences, along with his Passion for Career Health Pathway Development for our 21st Century youth in California's Rural Mother lode region.
Rick Damelio, Retired Educator
Health Science Career Pathway Advocates, Founder
Rick Damelio is a native of the Boston, Massachusetts’s area and attended public schools K-12. He is a 1965 graduate of Salem State University, received his master’s degree in School Administration from Keene State University, Keene, NH in 1969. In 1989, he graduated from the University of San Francisco with a doctorate in School Leadership. Rick began his educational career as a classroom teacher and then became a school principal. For 15 years, he
was an elementary and middle school principal on both the East and West Coast.
In 1989 Rick was selected to be the Superintendent of Schools and served the San Mateo City School District in
that capacity for 12 years. In 2001, he joined the Bay Area School Reform Collaborative (BASRC) as Director of
School Reform. In this role, he worked with school district superintendents and school principals on the district
wide reform efforts and helped guide the work of school districts desiring to make system wide educational
changes.
In 2005, Rick became State Administrator for Vallejo City Unified School District. The bankrupt school district taken over by the state in 2005.
Irene Espinoza, MA, Executive Leader in People Systems | DEI Strategist | Project Development Management Expert | Economic and Workforce Consultant
Irene Espinoza is an innovative leader with over 20 years of experience in workforce development, strategic partnerships, and program management. As Economic and Workforce Consultant for Health Science Career Pathway Advocates, she collaborates with educational institutions, employers, and community partners to design and implement scalable programs that align with the governor’s vision for technical advanced degree pathways and meet the evolving needs of the health science industry.
Irene’s expertise in building industry partnerships, integrating emerging technologies, and fostering youth career development has consistently resulted in increased job placements, enhanced program outcomes, and expanded opportunities for students.
With a strong background in organizational leadership and a passion for continuous improvement, Irene has led initiatives that improve operational efficiency, program effectiveness, and stakeholder satisfaction.
Her commitment to bridging the gap between classroom learning and workforce demands ensures that students are prepared for high-demand health science careers, while her leadership in staff development and change management supports sustainable growth and innovation within organizations.
Get to know our Board Members
Lonnie Mills
Experiential Learning Expert
With over two decades of dedicated service as a nurse and a proven track record as an instructor in an Associate Degree in Nursing program, boasting an impressive 97% NCLEX pass rate. Lonnie brings unparalleled expertise across a wide spectrum of nursing specialties.
These include Critical Care, Medical-Surgical, Psychiatric, Cardiac, Respiratory, Nutritional, Pharmacological, and Immunological domains. She is passionate about empowering aspiring healthcare professionals, guiding them through the rewarding world of healthcare to unlock their highest potential and achieve lasting impact in their careers.
In her role as a leader in Experiential Learning, Lonnie upholds the utmost standards of quality and safety while excelling at orchestrating intricate logistical operations with seamless efficiency and meticulous attention to detail.
Above all, she remains steadfastly committed to fostering organizational excellence, driving growth, and inspiring teams through her deep well of knowledge and unwavering dedication.
Doug Archer
President & CEO/Dignity Health
Mark Twain Medical Center
Doug Archer leads Mark Twain Medical Center with a strong commitment to delivering compassionate, high quality health care to the communities of Calaveras County.
Under his leadership, the hospital continues to expand access to critical health services, foster innovation in rural care, and strengthen partnerships that support the well-being of local residents.
Doug’s focus on patient-centered care and community collaboration reflects Dignity Health’s mission to provide “human kindness” in every aspect of health care.
With decades of experience in hospital administration and community health development,
Doug has played an instrumental role in advancing rural health initiatives throughout the region. His leadership emphasizes sustainability, workforce development, and equitable access to care, ensuring that families in the Motherlode Region have the resources and support they need to live healthier lives.
Kimberly M. Brinkman
Director, Career Technical Education Patterson Unified School District
Kimberly M. Brinkman serves as the Director of Career Technical Education (CTE) at Patterson High School, where she is dedicated to preparing students for meaningful careers through hands-on learning and real world experience.
Her leadership has been instrumental in developing programs that connect classroom education with local industry needs, empowering students to explore pathways in health care, technology, and skilled trades.
With a deep passion for student success and workforce readiness, Kimberly fosters partnerships that bridge education and employment opportunities throughout the Central Valley.
She is committed to ensuring every student graduates with the skills, confidence, and professional connections needed to thrive in today’s evolving job market.
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John Kleweis M.B.A
Manager – Healthcare Employer Partnerships, Futuro Health
John Kleweis is a driven leader passionate about connecting talent with opportunity in the healthcare sector. As the Manager of Healthcare Employer Partnerships at Futuro Health, John leverages over a decade of experience in workforce development, talent acquisition, and strategic relationship-building to help bridge critical gaps between healthcare employers and skilled job seekers.
John’s background spans roles in both nonprofit and corporate environments, where he has cultivated partnerships with industry leaders to create innovative solutions for workforce challenges. At Futuro Health,
John is instrumental in forging collaborations that expand access to high-quality healthcare education and sustainable careers for diverse communities.
He holds a strong belief in the transformative power of education and workforce partnerships.
His commitment to advancing equitable healthcare opportunities aligns closely with our organization’s mission.Outside of work, John enjoys volunteering, mentoring, and staying active in professional networks. We are proud to welcome his expertise, vision, and dedication to our Board.
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Michele Theisen
Workforce Development
Michele Theisen brings a wealth of experience and heartfelt dedication to our Board, blending professional expertise with a deep commitment to community and family. With a BS degree in Business, focused on Human Resources and Accounting,
Michele’s career spans nearly 15 years in public sector Workforce Development and close to a decade in accounting roles across both public and private sectors.Michele’s professional journey is matched by her devotion to supporting those around her.
Over the past ten years, she has prioritized caring for her family while also making a lasting impact through volunteerism. Michele has been an active presence in her son’s classroom, a dedicated participant and executive board member (1 year) of the PTA, and the steadfast scorekeeper for her daughter’s high school basketball team for four years.
Her unique blend of business acumen, public service, and hands-on community involvement exemplifies the spirit of leadership our organization values. We are honored to have Michele’s unwavering passion, experience, and commitment guiding our mission.
John Alexander Board Member , Transformational Leader
John Alexander is a dynamic executive leader and catalyst for change. With over two decades of experience in higher education administration, workforce development, and community engagement, John has a proven track record of driving institutional excellence and building impactful partnership
John is a visionary leader known for championing innovative programs that bridge the gap between education and industry. His strategic approach has strengthened outreach efforts, expanded academic opportunities, and built meaningful collaborations with community organizations and local businesses. His work consistently drives growth, enhances workforce readiness, and creates pathways to success for diverse learners.
A steadfast advocate for equity and inclusion, John has implemented policies and initiatives that foster welcoming, accessible environments for underrepresented populations. As a dedicated board member, he brings strong governance expertise, strategic insight, and a deep commitment to mission driven impact. His guidance helps organizations build sustainable growth while staying aligned with their core purpose and community focused values.
John’s influence extends beyond professional leadership. He is deeply passionate about mentorship, supporting emerging leaders and empowering them to achieve their academic and career aspirations. His ongoing community service work reflects his commitment to uplifting underserved populations through volunteerism and advocacy. As a respected thought leader, he is frequently invited to speak on educational innovation, leadership, and social impact.
With a blend of strategic vision, operational experience, and unwavering integrity, John Alexander brings exceptional value to every boardroom. His collaborative style and dedication to community empowerment make him a trusted advisor and an invaluable asset to organizations striving for meaningful, sustainable progress.
we value
We value education, community, diversity, innovation, and collaboration.
We believe
We believe in the power of education to transform lives and communities.
we embrace
We embrace diversity and recognize the unique strengths and perspectives that each individual brings to the table.
we encourage
We encourage innovation and creativity in finding solutions to the challenges facing the healthcare industry.
We Believe
We believe that collaboration is essential to achieving our goals.