Medical Assisting
Faculty
Alisha Harris, AAS, CMA (AAMA)
Program Coordinator / Clinical Instructor
Office: Owen-Redfield Complex 243 B
Professional Work Experience
Certified Medical Assistant (AAMA) - Since 1998
- Internal Medicine, Oncology, OB/GYN, Family Medicine, Allergy, Orthopedics, Spine Surgery and Urgent Care.
Clinical Instructor, Medical Assisting Program, Idaho State University, College of Technology – Since Fall 2024
Postsecondary Limited Occupational Specialist Certification – 2024 - Current
Advisor, Idaho State University Medical Assistant Student Organization – Since Fall 2024
Career Highlights
Idaho State University Alumni
- Currently working towards a Bachelor’s degree in Workforce Training and Leadership with an emphasis on Career Technical Education.
- Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting
American Association of Medical Assistants
- Member since 1998
- Task Force for Test Construction Committee, 2018 - Current
- Vice Chair, 2022-2023
- Co-Chair, 2023-2025
- Certifying Board
- Member 2023 - Current
- 1st Vice Chair 2025 - Current
Career Technical Educators of Idaho
- Member since 2024
Idaho Health Professions Educators Association
- Member since 2024
Favorite Professional Experience:
I was fortunate to be able to help set up the first spine surgery practice in Logan, Utah with Dr. Eric Hooley. He specializes in spine deformity and the changes that I saw in the patients he operated on were amazing. In particular, I remember a teenage girl with severe kyphosis (known as “hunchback’). She kept her eyes down, wouldn’t look at anyone and rarely smiled. After surgery, I almost didn’t recognize her. She was 3-4 inches taller and walked with her head up and a big smile on her face. It was easy to tell she had already started getting some of her confidence back. I spent 13 years working for Dr. Hooley and I loved being able to have a small part in improving the life of all the patient’s he has helped. That is what I enjoy most being a Certified Medical Assistant; helping patients improve their circumstances.
A Little About Me
I was born and raised in Idaho. I love the mountains. They are my happy place. My family likes to hike, camp and kayak. We also love going to the beach whether it is at Bear Lake or the ocean.
I love Idaho State University and the Medical Assisting profession. I am eager to share my love for medical assisting with my students and get them excited for a rewarding career.
Ashley Critser, AAS, CMA (AAMA)
Clinical Instructor
Office: Owen-Redfield Complex 243B
Professional Work Experience
Certified Medical Assistant (AAMA) - Since 2011
- Orthopedics.
Clinical Instructor, Medical Assisting, Idaho State University, College of Technology – Since Fall 2024
Postsecondary Limited Occupational Specialist Certification – 2024-Current
Career Highlights
Idaho State University Alumni
- Currently working towards a Bachelor’s degree in Workforce Training with an emphasis on CTE
- Associate of Applied Science in Medical Assisting – 2011
American Association of Medical Assistants
- Member since 2009
Career Technical Educators of Idaho
- Member since 2024
A Little About Me
I was fortunate enough to attend the MA program at ISU with a great group of ladies, and had amazing instructors. I was interested in Family Medicine and Orthopedics. I found out quickly I was not interested in pursuing family medicine and thoroughly enjoyed my time working in Orthopedics. I was able to obtain a job through my externship and worked in the same clinic for 13 years. I have been very grateful for the experience and knowledge gained while working there.
I was born and raised in Idaho. In my free time I love hunting, camping, kayaking, and riding snowmobiles. My husband and I have one little boy who entertains and amazes us every day.
I love Idaho State University and am thrilled to share my enthusiasm for teaching and imparting the wisdom of the medical assisting profession! It’s a privilege to guide the next generation of healthcare professionals, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to make a real difference in patient care.