meet our dedicated team of counselors
Whether you're a first-year student, graduate, transfer or international prospect, our team of Admissions Counselors is committed to answering all of your questions and providing the information you need to make your time at ACPHS both educational and rewarding.
Territories: Central and Western NY, including greater Syracuse, Binghamton, Rochester, Buffalo, & North Country, Mohawk Valley and Adirondacks, and Upper Midwest and Central States.
Contact Daria
Office: 518-694-7235 | Cell: 518-603-3318 | daria.czaplicki@acphs.edu
I grew up in the Hudson Valley, and then attended college in the Capital District. I fell in love with the diversity of the area and have lived here ever since! The Capital District is full of life, and is at a great advantage point to travel all over the Northeast. Exploring new areas is a passion of mine, and my kitty Eleanor comes along in her backpack occasionally as well. In our spare time at home we love doing projects like crocheting together and cooking for our friends and family. I look forward to helping you acclimate to independent living while at ACPHS!
Wendy Diefendorf
Director of Admissions
Contact Wendy
Office: 518-694-7183 | wendy.diefendorf@acphs.edu
Assistant Director of Admissions
Undergraduate Advisor to Transfer and International Students
Contact Audrey
Office: 518-694-7148 | audrey.egelston@acphs.edu
I am happy to help answer any questions that you may have, wherever you are in the process.
I have lived most of my life in the Capital Region and love going on adventures in the area.
My favorite things are spending time in the Adirondacks, kayaking, and being a cool aunt.
Graduate Student Admissions
Contact Justin
Office: 518-694-7130 | justin.hadley@acphs.edu
I am from Western New York, but have lived in Albany since attending college in the Capital Region. I have the opportunity to work with students from the time they express interest in ACPHS until they complete their master's program. The Admissions office is a frequent stop for students currently enrolled at ACPHS – as a result, we can readily assist them as they progress towards their degree.
Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions
Contact Grace
Office: 518-694-7158 | grace.higgins@acphs.edu
Originally from Upstate NY. I completed my MBA in Business Analytics from Siena College and worked on developing my ties with the community during that time. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, snowboarding, college football, and discovering new restaurants. I look forward to working with our students and helping them make the most of their ACPHS experience.
Coordinator of Graduate Admissions
Contact Andrew
Office: 518-903-5781 | Zoom: 518-694-7152 | andrew.nagle@acphs.edu
I have lived in the Albany area for almost my whole life, so I know the hidden gems that can be found just around the corner. Graduate Admissions is rewarding and fulfilling work, and I believe it opens a lot of opportunities for students. ACPHS has a lot to offer, and the students are amazing! In my spare time, I love to travel, go rock climbing, catch a live show, or read on the couch with my cat Snowball. I look forward to working with you!
Territories: High school students from the Capital District of New York Including Albany, Rennsselaer, Saratoga, and Schenectady Counties. West Coast, Pacific, and Mountain States. Transfer students into our Bachelor of Science programs.
Contact Sarah
Office: 518-694-7285 | Cell: 518-703-3139 | sarah.ohnsman@acphs.edu
Originally from the Saratoga area, I’ve had the pleasure of attending college and working in higher education in the Capital District. Whether a student is looking for an internship, job opportunities, or leisurely activities, the Albany area has it all. I’m very excited to introduce new students to the area and help guide them through the college application process.
ACPHS has a lot to offer and I’m a firm believer in strength of our academic outcomes. Outside of my passion for higher education, you can usually find me at farmers markets, catching a live show, or grabbing a bite to eat at the best eateries the region has to offer!
Territories: First Professional Students and transfer students into the Doctor of Pharmacy Program at any level.
Contact Katie
Office: 518-694-7868 | Cell: 518-708-3807 | katie.palmer@acphs.edu
Within my family there are multiple generations of ACPHS graduates who have all launched very successful careers, which they credit to their experiences at ACPHS. I look forward to getting to know the future generation of ACPHS graduates as they begin their college search process, and I’m eager to share with them everything the college has to offer.
Territories: Central Hudson Valley, Westchester, The Bronx, Midatlantic and Greater DC including Virginia, Maryland, Delaware and District of Columbia, and Great Lakes.
Contact Nicoy
Office: 518-694-7159 | Cell: 518-603-3380 | nicoy.pusey@acphs.edu
I was born and raised on the Island of Jamaica. In May of 2000, my family and I migrated to Albany NY where I completed high school. After college, I spent 12 years in Residence Life in all capacities supporting students as they enter college. Having migrated to the Capital Region, I would do it all over again. The rich culture and amazing adventures in surrounding areas makes Albany a wonderful place to live and study. I look forward in sharing what the Capital Region and ACPHS has to offer you.
Territories: California, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Utah, Nevada, Colorado and Wyoming.
Contact Shannon
Office: 518-694-7197 | Cell: 518-708-3336 | shannon.smith@acphs.edu
Originally from Northern California, I’ve resided in the greater Los Angeles area for over 20 years where I went to university and began my professional career. Professionally, I have 15 years of experience that have largely been focused on helping learners of all ages find the right fit university outside of their home state with an emphasis in the health sciences.
Within my role at ACPHS, I am excited to support prospective undergraduate and graduate students as they learn about the benefits of studying at our institution.