Our Team

Dr. Kris Hansen-Kieffer

Dr. Kris Hansen-Kieffer is an ACSM certified exercise physiologist who combines her passion for holistic health and higher education to offer clients a science based, individualized experience .  She has worked in cardiac rehab, as a fitness instructor, a female strength and conditioning coach, a faculty member in exercise science and an undergraduate internship supervisor.  She is committed to helping people find their own path toward wellness and is particularly interested in keeping our bodies healthy and strong through the aging process.

Dr. Scott Kieffer

Dr. Scott Kieffer is a professor of exercise physiology at Messiah University. He teaches courses related to the physiological determinants of disease and how exercise can be used as medicine to help maintain a healthy lifestyle across the lifespan. Scott also enjoys conducting research with students. He is currently doing research in the area of caffeine and performance, how exercise increases blood markers for a healthier brain, and how meditation/prayer helps our nervous system adapt to stress. His teaching and research are all focused on helping his students become better practitioners in the healthcare field and directly helping individuals in PREP live healthier and happier lives.

Dr. Krystal Robinson-Bert

Dr. Krystal Robinson-Bert is a licensed occupational therapist and associate professor of occupational therapy at Messiah University. She has over 10 years of experience working with adults and older adults with a variety of neurological conditions in the settings of inpatient rehabilitation hospitals, skilled nursing facilities and assisted living facilities. She is a certified stroke rehabilitation specialist, brain injury specialist and aging in place specialist with specialty certifications in Parkinson’s disease, dementia, neuro-visual impairment, kinesiotaping, and neurodevelopmental treatment. Krystal enjoys journeying alongside clients and strives to provide holistic client-centered treatment with a focus on quality of life and wellbeing.

Rachel Ryder

Rachel is a physical therapist who graduated from Temple University in 2020 with her Doctor of Physical Therapy. She previously worked in outpatient geriatric and neurology care with special interest in Parkinson’s Disease care and group exercise. After moving back to the Harrisburg area, she began working at the Helen M. Simpson Rehabilitation Hospital.

Melissa Savant

Melissa Savant is your primary point of contact at The PREP initiative, ensuring you receive dedicated support throughout your journey. At the heart of PREP are its pillars of high-touch interaction and personalized support, and Melissa is committed to delivering both of these distinguishing features with utmost excellence during your experience.

Undergraduate Student Interns

The PREP initiative welcomes a group of qualified exercise science undergraduate student interns each semester. These interns work under the close supervision of our Certified Exercise Physiologists and play an important role in supporting various aspects of our programs, actively.

Front Desk Team

Our front desk team comprises part-time professionals and over 30 student employees. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular member, our staff is here to make you feel not just welcome but valued, creating a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive on their wellness journey.