About Us
Our
Staff
Executive Director
Celine Gustafson
Executive Director
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Program Team
Amy Bialek
Robotics and Outreach Director
Amy is new to our staff. She is a physical therapist with experience in research, robotic technology for people with neurological impairments and program development. Amy will work with the robotic technology at Push to Walk, and her goal is to expand the program offerings to provide accessible wellness to all who need it. Amy earned her Master of Science in Physical Therapy at New York Medical College and is excited to be at Push to Walk!
Matt Lasky
Neuro Exercise Trainer & Education Manager
Matt started interning at Push to Walk in January 2012 and transitioned into a part-time training position in July 2012. He successfully completed the Certified Spinal Cord Injury Recovery Apprentice program at Project Walk in California in June 2012. Matt earned his bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science from Rutgers University and currently holds a certification in Strength and Conditioning through the NSCA, as well as in CPR training.
Fernando Febus
Neuro Exercise Trainer
Fernando is a senior at William Paterson University majoring in Health Sciences. He is an ISSA Certified Personal Trainer and American Heart Association CPR certified. After finishing his bachelor’s, he has aspirations of going to Physical Therapy School. He started as an aide at Push to Walk in 2023 and progressed to a Neuro Exercise Trainer.
Chris Meola
Neuro Exercise Trainer
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Chris Brodeck
Neuro Exercise Trainer
Chris is a lifelong dedicated athlete and Certified Personal Trainer with over 5 years of experience helping clients reach their fitness goals. As a Corrective Exercise Specialist, Chris combines his experience in athletics with a deep understanding of mobility and movement techniques to optimize performance and prevent injuries. He works with clients across a variety of backgrounds, tailoring each training session to enhance strength, flexibility, and overall functional conditioning. Certified in a number of unique modalities, Chris empowers clients in their journey to maintain longevity in daily life and continue with the physical activities they strive to participate in.
Brian Gartland
Neuro Exercise Trainer
Brian graduated from Sacred Heart University in 2020 with a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science and intentions to work in a clinical rehab setting. After graduating Brian got his Exercise Physiologist certification through the American College of Sports Medicine. After specializing in training individuals with neurological injuries and conditions, Brian became a Certified Inclusive Fitness Trainer also through the American College of Sports Medicine. Brian is passionate about using his education and experience to help individuals improve their quality of life through exercise.
Calli Long
Neuro Exercise Trainer
Calli recently graduated from William Paterson with a degree in Exercise Science and a double minor in Cognitive Studies and Disability Studies. Calli played collegiate soccer and frequently volunteered with the Wayne YATP program (Young Adult Transition Program). Calli is currently working as an Aide but is in the process of joining the team as a trainer. Calli hopes to become a physical therapist and work in Neuro.
Program Aides
Abigail Pierre-Paul
Jarrett DeLeon
Ashley Saavedra
Jason Dominguez
Maral Celikel
Darren Kramer
Abigail Pierre-Paul
Aide
Jason Dominguez
Aide
Jarrett DeLeon
Aide
Maral Celikel
Aide
Ashley Saavedra
Aide
Darren Kramer
Aide
Administrative Team
Hope Edelman
Bookkeeper
Hope Edelman started working at Push to Walk of Oakland in the Spring 2014 as the organization’s bookkeeper. She has worked for various companies including ITT World Communications as a Senior Accounting Analyst, The Law Firm of Gibney, Anthony & Flaherty as the Legal Administrator and the Law Offices of Peter Van Aulen as the Accounting Manager. Her focus is on automating and updating accounting and office systems to improve daily operations and efficiency. She is responsible for administering Push to Walk’s daily accounting.
Lisa Winston
Client Scheduling Coordinator and Administrative Assistant
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Cynthia Templeton
Founder & Community Partnerships Coordinator
Cynthia Templeton, an experienced entrepreneur
and administrator, founded Push to Walk in January 2007 with her son Darren,
who sustained a C5 Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) in July 2004. Cynthia was
responsible for the daily operation of Push to Walk until 2017. She continues
to stay involved and maintain contact with clients and family members, assist
with fund raising efforts, building collaborative partnerships and working on
special projects to build the Push to Walk brand in the community.
Adham Mustafa
Aide
Shaileen Collado
Aide
