Aida Almanzar, MBA
Chief Executive Officer / President
During her time as CEO, Aida has realized major milestones on behalf of the college. With her direct involvement in layout and design of the new facility in Bloomfield, Aida was presented with recognition of the Business Development Recognition Award from the Suburban Essex Chamber of Commerce in 2015. Under Aida's direction, the institution was recognized for becoming a degree conferring institution by the State of New Jersey, Office of Higher Education, in 2016.
As an active member of the New Jersey Presidents’ Council, representing NJ colleges, Aida continues to explore new ways for ESATM to advance in the field of higher education and to maintain and continue to offer the students at ESATM a quality education resulting in a post-education career.
Dr. Ilona Abitbol, DAOM, L.Ac.
Academic Dean
Dr. Ilona Abitbol’s journey into Traditional Medicine is deeply rooted in her early life experiences and transformative encounters. Introduced to chanting, meditation, macrobiotic eating, and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as a child, she developed a profound appreciation for these practices. Her pivotal moment came during her teenage years when she became ill and spent time at an in-patient TCM healing center. There, she practiced fasting for many weeks and served as a scribe to a Doctor/Master, which sparked her lifelong dedication to the field.
Dr. Abitbol’s academic journey reflects her deep commitment to Traditional Medicine. She earned a Bachelor of Science from Cook College at Rutgers University, a Master’s degree in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from the New England School of Acupuncture (2004), and a Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine from Yo San University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (2018). Her dedication to continuing education is boundless, as she continually seeks to expand her knowledge. With over two decades of experience managing her practice, Dr. Abitbol advocates for Integrative Acupuncture and is dedicated to emphasizing its significance within the field.
Her current practice showcases her innovative approach. Drawing from diverse treatment styles, she addresses complex systemic and internal medicine issues. Specializing in exceptionally intricate cases, Dr. Abitbol leverages her eclectic knowledge and skills to provide creative and effective solutions for her patients.
Dr. Abitbol's commitment to Traditional Chinese Medicine extends beyond her practice. She also serves as an adjunct professor of medical acupuncture at SUNY Downstate Medical School, where she shares her knowledge and passion with the next generation of practitioners. Her career is marked by a dedication to integrating traditional practices with contemporary advancements, reflecting her holistic approach to education and research. Dr. Abitbol's goal is to preserve and advance Traditional Chinese Medicine, ensuring its principles and practices continue to benefit patients for generations.
Kelly Williams, MS.Ed
Director of Admissions
Jennifer Coppola
Director of Financial Aid
Rebecca Reisen, JD
Director of Administrative Operations & Registrar
Rebecca Reisen is the Registrar and Student Services Officer at The Eastern School of Acupuncture and Traditional Medicine since March 2017. Rebecca earned a Doctorate of Jurisprudence from Thomas Jefferson School of Law in San Diego, CA. She travelled abroad to study International and Comparative Law at the Zhejiang University Guanghua College of Law in Hangzhou, China. In 2009, Rebecca graduated from Montclair State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and a P-12 Teaching Certificate.
Rebecca has dedicated her career to public service. She has interned with the Office of the Public Defender, researching and drafting motions relevant to Major Case work, and Casa Cornelia, where she provided quality pro bono services to victims of domestic violence. She enjoys working with environmental and social justice non-profit organizations and continues to be active in her community and beyond.
Sherlley Alvarez
Administrative Assistant
Lawrence Lane, JD, MLIS
Director of Library Services