Ultimate Medical Academy Honors Fall 2016 True Blue Alum

November 03, 2016 — Ultimate Medical Academy (UMA) is proud to announce its inaugural 2016 True Blue Alum, Leticia Barton, a graduate of UMA’s Medical Billing and Coding associate degree program.

The UMA True Blue Alum is a special honor that spotlights outstanding UMA alumni who are serving their communities, positively impacting patient outcomes, excelling in their careers and accomplishing other noteworthy goals. One distinguished UMA alum is chosen each quarter.

Barton is a member of the Navajo nation from Cedar Springs, Arizona. A proud Diné Native American woman, she is from The Salt Clan People, born for The Red-Running-Into-Water Clan.

After graduating from UMA, Barton secured a position at the Phoenix Spine Surgery Center as a Spine Care Specialist. She is responsible for collecting information from patients nationwide and evaluating their eligibility for back and neck surgery.

“Students like Leticia are the reason we do what we do,” said UMA President Derek Apanovitch. “With our dedicated student and career advisors, our institution strives to provide a fully supportive learning environment where students feel empowered to succeed in healthcare fields.”

Barton’s mother, Rena, graduated from UMA in September 2011, despite battling breast cancer and undergoing chemotherapy. Rena started working as a medical coder with the Indian Health Service on the Navajo Reservation in Arizona, before succumbing to cancer in October of last year. Barton credits her mother for her determination, strong work ethic and confidence.

“As I receive this recognition, I think about my mom and all the others who helped me along the way,” said Barton. “While the road has been long, UMA team members worked with me the entire time to help me achieve my lifelong dream – a career in healthcare. I hope my journey at this school can serve as a testament to all those who are thinking about taking that next step in their education but have yet to do so.”

“Leticia is an inspiration to not only other students, but to all our staff across our school,” said Apanovitch. “We are proud to have helped her start her career, and we are delighted to honor her with this award.”

Learn more about UMA True Blue Alumni by visiting www.ultimatemedical.edu/alumni/true-blue-alum/.