VANESSA GRAY, DHA, MHA, CMP, CHCP
Director

Dr. Gray joined Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences (DMU) in 2010. Under her leadership, DMU maintains several multi-disciplinary accreditations through the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) (with commendation), the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) (with commendation), the American Academy of Physician Associates, the Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer, and the Council on Podiatric Medical Education (CPME).

Dr. Gray has a Doctorate of Health Care Administration from Oklahoma State University, a Master of Health Care Administration from Des Moines University, and an undergraduate degree in business and economics from the University of Utah. 

Dr. Gray wholeheartedly believes in the impact of CME on the healthcare industry. She is highly passionate about the role of patients and their families within the healthcare team, including in medical education and research. She believes involving patients in delivering CME engages clinicians’ minds and hearts, reinforcing the importance of their work.

Dr. Gray is active in the CME profession, serving on multiple national and regional committees, including the ACCME (surveyor and mentor for novice CME professionals), CPME (6-year CME committee and ad-hoc member), Des Moines University Health Leaders (director of operations), National Commission for Certification of CME Professionals (finance committee), and Meeting Professional International, Utah Chapter (director of professional development and education). Dr. Gray frequently presents at industry conferences on patient involvement in CME, compliance, outcomes measurement, digital accessibility, adult learning principles, data privacy, learning communities, and audience engagement.

Dr. Gray holds the Certified Continuing Medical Education Professional (CHCP™) credential from the Alliance for Continuing Education in the Health Professions, which recognizes her commitment to excellence, professional growth, and the advancement of standards in healthcare continuing professional development. In addition, Dr. Gray has earned two certifications from the ACCME: the ACCME Certificate in Implementing the Standards for Integrity and Independence in Accredited Continuing Education, demonstrating expertise in content validity, prevention of commercial bias, and transparency in financial relationships; and the ACCME Certificate in Data Management in Accredited Continuing Education, reflecting proficiency in collecting, analyzing, and reporting CE activity and learner data in alignment with ACCME Standards and best practices. Dr. Gray also holds the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation.

She enjoys spoiling her pets (two dogs and a cat), visiting breweries, running, gardening, and is an avid reader.

PAULA SECKER-JOHNSTON
Coordinator

Mrs. Secker-Johnston brings a unique blend of skills and experiences to Continuing Medical Education (CME). During her multifaceted career, Mrs. Secker-Johnston has had a passion for organization, project management, and lifelong learning.

She completed Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) training in March 2024 and is working toward certification by the end of the year. The CAPM training equips participants with essential knowledge and skills in project management methodologies, tools, and techniques, providing a solid foundation for managing projects and contributing to organizational success.

Mrs. Secker-Johnston's professional journey has been marked by a series of impactful roles in which she has applied her expertise and dedication to achieving organizational objectives, including project management, customer service, and process improvement. With a track record of successfully steering projects of varying scopes and complexities, she has demonstrated leadership and adept problem-solving skills. Her proficiency in coordinating resources, timelines, and deliverables has consistently led to the timely achievement of project goals across domains. 

Employing a customer-centric approach, she has effectively engaged diverse clients, addressing inquiries, resolving issues, and ensuring positive experiences. Her communication style and proactive demeanor have earned her praise from her colleagues.

Dedicated to leveraging her diverse skill set and experiences to drive positive change, nurture growth, and contribute to the success of Des Moines University’s CME program, Mrs. Secker-Johnston embodies a commitment to excellence.

Mrs. Secker-Johnston resides with her husband in Altoona, IA. She enjoys teaching and practicing yoga, biking, gardening, and exploring the world through travel.