Our Providers
Meet Our Providers
The St. Thomas East End Medical Center Corporation has a multidisciplinary team of medical providers and support staff. They include full-time medical doctors, physician’s assistants, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, licensed clinical social workers, support staff, etc.
The providers are available to each other for consultation, whether urgent or non-urgent care is necessary.
Tess Richards, M.D.
Interim Executive Director & Medical Director
Audria Thomas, M.D.
Christine Lloyd, M.D.
Carol Prince, M.D.
Jefferson Hendrickson, M.D.
Nachét Williams- Prince, DMSc, PA-C
Trisha Harris, DHA, MS, PA-C
Lavonne Colasuonno DNP, APRN, FNP-BC
Marcelle Forte-Guillaume, PA-C
Rachel Herman, APRN, MS, RN
Miriam Judy Turnbull, BSN, RN
Paulette Venzen Potter, LICSW
Miguel Franco, DMD, MSD Dental Director
Lauren Gewinner, RDH
Valencia James Danet, DH
Tess Richards, M.D.
Interim Executive Director and Medical Director
Dr. Tess G. Richards is a family medicine doctor trained to provide care for both adults and children. She attended the American University of the Caribbean Medical School in St. Maarten and did her residency at Cabarrus Family Medicine in North Carolina. Shortly after residency, she moved back home to St. Thomas, USVI where she was born and raised because her family on both sides have been in St. Thomas for many, many generations and she had a deep desire to give back to her community. In her spare time, Dr. Richards enjoys party planning, decorating homes, traveling all over the world, cooking, watching sitcoms and murder mysteries from the 70s and 80s, and, most importantly, spending time with her exceptionally large family.
Audria Thomas, M.D.
Dr. Audria A. Thomas, MD is a pediatrician and allergist/ immunologist here in the U.S. Virgin Islands. She completed medical school at Meharry Medical College in Tennessee. Dr. Thomas did her pediatric residency and allergy/ immunology fellowship at Howard University Hospital in Washington D.C. Has published in the medical magazine Allergy Observer about “Cystic Fibrosis: Really a Rarity Among Blacks”. When she is not working, she enjoys singing in her church praise team, sewing, and playing the keyboard. Dr. Thomas has 2 beautiful married daughters and 2 beautiful granddaughters.
Christine Lloyd, M.D.
Dr. Christine Lloyd is a board-certified OB/GYN who has been practicing in St. Thomas, VI for the past 20 years. She received her undergraduate degree from Emory University in Georgia and her medical degree from Colombia University, New York. She completed her OB/GYN residency at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Dr. Lloyd loves spending time with her husband and beautiful children.
Carol Prince, M.D.
Dr. Carol Prince, M.D., MPH, is a highly accomplished and dedicated medical professional with a distinguished career in dermatology and public health. Dr. Prince’s educational journey began at Wayne State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1966. She furthered her education at the University of Michigan, obtaining a Master of Public Health (MPH) in 1972. Soon after, she pursued a Doctor of Medicine (MD) at Michigan State University, completing her degree in 1975. Following her medical education, Dr. Prince embarked on a diverse and impactful career, which includes a wealth of experience in clinical and academic settings. She has worked as a Medical Director at Detroit Diesel Allison-Romulus and even served as a Plant Physician at Ford Motor Company. Additionally, she has held positions in various dermatology practices, both as an independent contractor and locum tenens roles. She will join us as the only dermatologist on the island of St. Thomas, bringing a large history of professional achievements, community service, and valuable research contributions to the center.
Jefferson Hendrickson, M.D.
Dr. Jefferson Hendrickson is a highly experienced internal medicine physician, with over two decades dedicated to improving the health and well-being of his patients. Most recently, he practiced at MedStar Medical Group, where he had been providing comprehensive care since 2019. Before this, he served as a General Practitioner at Johns Hopkins Community Physicians from 2016 to 2019. Dr. Hendrickson completed his residency in internal medicine at Meharry Medical College, where he earned his MD in 2012, following an internship at Wake Forest Baptist Health Medical Center.
In addition to his medical training, Dr. Hendrickson holds a Master of Life Sciences from the University of Maryland and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of the Virgin Islands. Prior to his medical career, he spent over a decade teaching science at the high school and middle school levels, bringing a unique perspective to patient care with a focus on education and preventive health.
Nachét Williams- Prince, DMSc, PA-C
Nachét J. Williams-Prince is a board-certified Physician Assistant and a native of the US Virgin Islands. Nachét graduated in 2002 from the University of the Virgin Islands with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology. She attended Shenandoah University in Winchester, Virginia where she graduated with a Master of Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies in 2004. Nachét completed her post-graduate internship with A.K. Medical Associates in Philadelphia from 2006-2007 and returned to St. Thomas in 2007 to practice Internal Medicine and Obstetrics/Gynecology at the St. Thomas East End Medical Center Corporation. She is presently a candidate for the Doctor of Medical Science at A.T. Still University. Mrs. Williams-Prince enjoys spending time with her family and her hobbies include reading, watching trivia shows, and tennis.
Trisha Harris, DHA, MS, PA-CC
Dr. Trisha Harris is a distinguished healthcare administrator and physician assistant, bringing extensive knowledge and experience to her new role at the St. Thomas East End Medical Center Corporation. Her unwavering commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in healthcare, coupled with her outstanding leadership, has defined her career across multiple settings. Dr. Harris began her clinical journey in Texas, where she delivered high-quality care at various healthcare facilities after earning her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Baylor College of Medicine in 2006. In 2017, she returned to her roots in the Virgin Islands, where she has since served in diverse medical fields, including Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Emergency Medicine, and Surgical Operations at both Juan F. Luis Hospital and Frederiksted Healthcare Center.
In 2020, Dr. Harris achieved a Doctorate in Health Administration from A.T. Still University, with her dissertation titled IRMARIA: Disaster Preparedness, Emergency Management, and Restoration, showcasing her expertise in crisis management.
In addition to her clinical and administrative roles, Dr. Harris is deeply involved in numerous professional organizations that highlight her dedication to the well-being of her Caribbean community. She serves as the Chair of the COVID-19 Vaccine Advocacy Committee for the Rotary Club on St. Croix, is a Medical Liaison for the National Medical Association, and holds a position on the National Board of Directors for Black Greeks Speak, through her membership in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., among many other roles. With a strong foundation in healthcare administration, clinical practice, and community service, Dr. Harris continues to inspire and lead, making a profound impact on healthcare in the Virgin Islands.
Lavonne Colasuonno DNP, APRN, FNP-BC
After 6 years as an RN, LaVonne graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from New Jersey City University in 2016 and Monmouth University with a Master of Science in Nursing in 2019 respectively while also becoming board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner. Currently, LaVonne has over 10 years of experience in pediatrics and maternal-child nursing. She was born in Denver, CO, and raised on the Jersey Shore. She arrived in St. Thomas as a labor and delivery travel nurse in July 2020 and fell in love with the beautiful culture, people, and scenery. When not caring for patients, She enjoys running, weight-lifting, boxing, crocheting, stand-up paddle boarding, hiking, reading, cooking, and listening to music.
Marcelle Forte-Guillaume, PA-C
Marcelle Forte-Guillaume is a dedicated and skilled Physician Assistant from Haiti with over a decade of experience in internal medicine and urgent care. She earned her Master’s Degree in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Nebraska in 2017, following her Associate of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Miami Dade College. Since then, she has worked as a Physician Assistant at many medical facilities across Florida. Dr. John Internal Medicine, providing comprehensive care to patients. Her diverse experience includes roles at South Florida Multispecialty Associates and Mercy Family and Urgent Care, where she focused on delivering high-quality healthcare in fast-paced environments. Fluent in English and Haitian Creole, Ms. Forte-Guillaume is committed to serving a diverse patient population with compassion, professionalism, and high-quality healthcare.
Rachel Herman, APRN, MS, RN
Rachel Herman is an accomplished Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (APNP, PPCNP-BC) with extensive experience in both clinical practice and education. With advanced degrees from the University of Iowa and Northern Illinois University, she has dedicated her career to pediatric care, serving in various roles, including as Medical Services Director and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner at the University of Wisconsin. Her professional expertise spans decades, with notable positions at Mayo Clinic, Kids First Pediatrics, and Winona State University, where she was a faculty member and Clinical Placement Coordinator.
In addition to her clinical work, she has contributed to health education through publications, guest lectures, and independent health consulting. Her leadership and commitment to pediatric health have made her a trusted figure in healthcare, with a passion for improving patient outcomes.
Miriam Judy Turnbull, BSN, RN
Miriam J. Turnbull graduated from the College of the Virgin Islands in 1986 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. For over 30 years, she has served the VI Community through the Nursing profession. She is delighted to be a part of the STEEMCC Family, serving in the capacity of Coordinator of Immunization Services. In addition to Nursing, Miriam is a published author and songwriter. She enjoys swimming, reading, and listening to music. She also loves spending time with her husband, sons, and grandsons.
Paulette Venzen Potter, LICSW
Mrs. Venzen-Potter is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker here in the US Virgin Islands. Mrs. Venzen-Potter obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Education and a Master of Arts in Guidance and Counseling at the University of the Virgin Islands. She continued her education at the University of North Dakota, where she obtained a Master of Social Work in December 2016. Throughout her career, she has given nothing but her best efforts and dedicated over 35 years to the people of the Virgin Islands as an educator, counselor, and social worker within the area. Beyond her professional achievements, Mrs. Venzen-Potter is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta and the Phi Alpha Honor Society. Her passion for service extends beyond the workplace, and she is committed to making a positive impact on her community in every way possible.
Miguel Franco, DMD, MSD
Dr. Miguel Franco is a highly knowledgeable dentist with over 32 years of practice, primarily catering to underserved populations in his home Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and Indiana. He served as a commissioned dental officer in the US Navy and the US Public Health Service for 13 years and he was also a correctional dentist, director, and assistant program manager for all federal correctional facilities at the Federal Bureau of Prisons and Indiana Department of Corrections. Dr. Franco previously worked with STEEMCC in 2018 and 2021. STEEMCC is grateful to have his expertise back to serve the Virgin Islands community once more.
Lauren Gewinner, RDH
Lauren Gewinner was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, and has been practicing since receiving her degree in Dental Hygiene from Lewis and Clarke in 2003. In May 2007, Lauren decided to relocate to the Virgin Islands where she now calls home, and continued practicing on St. Thomas for over 10 years. Lauren started with the STEEMCC family in 2020. She looks forward to growth and continued service to the community. In her spare time, Lauren enjoys beaching, boating, dining, and gardening!
Valencia James Danet, DH
VI strong! Valencia James-Danet was born on the beautiful island of St. Thomas and is a proud graduate of Ivanna Eudora Kean High School. Mrs. James-Danet obtained her degree from Howard University School of Dentistry in Washington, DC. She has provided hygiene services for more than 25 years in the USVI and the BVI and still loves doing so. Outside her job, she enjoys music, dancing, and family activities. Most of all, Mrs. James-Danet loves spending time with her daughter, husband, and sister.
Members of the Board of Directors
Officers:
- Karl Callwood – Chairperson
- Mario A. Francis – Vice Chairperson
- Lisle A. Evelyn Jr. – Treasurer
- Cereese Lewis- Smith – Secretary
Directors:
- Clifford C. Charleswell
- Stephen DeBlasio
- Noreen Fletcher, RN, BSN
- Marilyn A. Haynes
- Christopher Popple
- LaVerne Slack