Health Services Staff
The Health and Wellness Office is staffed by two nurse practitioners who work in collaborative practice with an internal medicine physician at St. Luke’s Hospital. If a student prefers to be seen by a physician, they have the right to request an appointment at his office.
Meet Our Team
314.529.6716
Rachel Phillips Barnidge, FNP
Nurse Practitioner, Health & Wellness
A native St. Louisan, Rachel received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from St. Louis University in 2001, and her Masters of Science in Nursing from Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. in 2005. She is board certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner in the state of Missouri. Fluent in Spanish, her career path has largely focused on treating marginalized and underserved populations, providing comprehensive primary care to the entire family. Special areas of interest include women’s health, behavioral health, nutritional guidance, prevention of chronic disease through lifestyle coaching, and holistic medicine. She utilizes both conventional medicine and alternative modalities whenever possible to treat the whole person. She is dedicated to working creatively with each individual to find their optimal state of health and happiness. Rachel has had the unique privilege of volunteering in medical missions to provide primary care to many corners of the world, including Haiti, India, Uganda, Bolivia, Honduras, El Salvador, and the Philippines. She is also a certified yoga instructor. Rachel joined Maryville University in August of 2020 and is grateful to be a part of Saints Nation. In her free time, she enjoys cycling, yoga, hiking, gardening, travel, and chasing after her three young daughters.
314.529.9520
Lesa Barchet, MA
Medical Assistant, Health & Wellness
Lesa is a Medical Assistant in the Health and Wellness Center. She joined Maryville University in October of 2020. Before coming to Maryville, she worked in a private pediatric office for over 26 years. She obtained her Medical Assisting degree at Missouri School for Doctor’s Assistants. She enjoys working in the medical field and being able to work hands-on with people. Lesa lives in Waterloo, IL with her husband and daughter. She enjoys spending time with her family on vacations and on their family farm. She and her family love being outdoors and traveling all over the country. She also enjoys managing and being an assistant coach of her daughter’s select softball team.