Associate Professor at Fort Hays State University since 2011
●    Ph.D. in Physics, University of Texas at San Antonio, 2011
●    B.S. in Physics, Fort Hays State University, 2004
Teaching and research interests: Quantum Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Laser Bioeffect Modeling, Computational Physics

Specializing in perioperative services, Vangie Dennis is active in professional organizations such as AORN, AONL, and the Laser Institute of America (LIA). She serves on editorial boards for several medical journals and has published extensively on laser safety, laparoscopic surgery, and perioperative nursing. Vangie has lectured nationally and internationally for major organizations and conferences, including AORN and the International Laser Safety Conference. She has held leadership roles, including Past President of AORN National, and is involved in various committees and boards, such as the Board of Laser Safety. She has received numerous awards, including the Nursing Excellence Award from the American Society for Lasers in Medicine and Surgery and the 2018 Distinguished Nurse of the Year from the Georgia March of Dimes.

Richard Gama is a Certified Medical Laser Safety Officer and Certified Surgical Technologist. He has been a leader in healthcare laser safety since 1983. As Director of Laser Safety for Agiliti and founder of Laser Ready Services, LLC, he has participated in over 30,000 surgical procedures and developed numerous training programs, policies, and videos on laser safety and operating room practices. He provides nationwide certification and in-service training, having conducted over 780 sessions. Richard serves as a Commissioner for the Board of Laser Safety, co-chaired the 2023 International Laser Safety Conference, and co-instructs the Laser Institute of America’s Medical Laser Safety Officer Training Course. An active member of various professional organizations, he is a recognized expert and frequent speaker at major industry conferences.

Dr. Robert Mueller is a Certified Laser Safety Officer with 40 years of experience working with lasers. He has over 25 years of experience developing industrial laser systems and applications. Dr. Mueller has led the design and installation of over 140 laser systems for welding, brazing, and cutting in high-volume manufacturing environments. 

Ms. Pollard is a board-certified Medical Laser Safety Officer with over 30 years of experience in surgical operating rooms and clinics, specializing in medical and surgical laser technologies. Holding degrees in Medical Technology and Laser Electro-Optics Technology, she has developed and managed medical laser programs and provided education and training on laser safety, device operation, and emerging technologies to healthcare facilities nationwide, including hospitals, clinics, and veterinary centers. Leslie has contributed to the ANSI Z136.3 American National Standard for Safe Use of Lasers in Healthcare. Committed to advancing the field, she shares her expertise to ensure the safe and effective use of laser technology in healthcare.

Consulting Medical Physicist
Formerly with the US Army Medical Department, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD
●    Ph.D. in Biophysics and Medical Physics, University of London
●    M.S. in Physics and Radiological Health, Emory University
Dr. Sliney has authored over 200 peer-reviewed papers and several influential books on laser safety. He has served in leadership roles for various societies, including the International Electrotechnical Commission, the American Society for Lasers in Medicine and Surgery, and the Optical Society (OSA). He is a founding member of the Laser Institute of America (LIA). Recognized for his contributions, he has received numerous awards, including the Rockwell Award, the Wilkening Award, the Schawlow Award, the Health Physics Distinguished Scientific Achievement Award, and the Army Distinguished Service Award.

U.S. Army Public Health Center, Non-Ionizing Public Health Division
●    M.S. in Applied Physics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 2001
●    B.S. in Physics, Towson State University, Towson, MD, 1991
Shawn Sparks has been teaching laser and radio frequency radiation hazards for USAPHC since 1994.

Tekla Staley is a Certified Industrial Hygienist, Certified Safety Professional, and Certified Laser Safety Officer. With over 33 years of experience, she has provided health and safety support across various industries, including retail, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, reactor safety, waste management, laser safety, construction, and agriculture.