Meet the staff

Autumn Bair, PA-C

As a female professional in women's health, I can certainly relate to the conditions unique to our patient population. My training as a physician's assistant has given me the insight and experience necessary to effectively assist in giving women of all walks of life the comfort and understanding I would expect myself in dealing with the sensitive issues we face in pelvic medicine. I take pride in the fact that I am helping women regain the confidence they deserve as they progress through the diagnosis and treatment of their most intimate healthcare issues. In my off-time I enjoy gardening, shopping, spending time with my husband Dan, and raising our son Colin.

Carol Burian, LPN

Throughout my nursing career I have worked in many areas, but where I have spent most of time is working with geriatric patients. Getting to understand their special needs and expanding my knowledge base in this area has brought me great professional satisfaction.

Each day I come to the Institute, the thing I enjoy the most is my interaction with the patients to help make their experience more comfortable.

My free time is spent with my husband and two children enjoying some outdoor activity. If I am not with them, you can find me tending my gardens.

Robin Haff, RN, BSN

Director of the Women's Health Research
St. Luke's Health Network
My ten years of extensive clinical research experience has allowed me to initiate the womens health research division at St. Luke’s Health Network. Participating in clinical research trials allows patients to have access to innovative medical and surgical treatments, that would otherwise not be available to them. This also offers patients the opportunity to become an integral part of the development and approval of these new treatments. When not in the office, I cherish spending time with my husband and two daughters. My family and I enjoy a wide range of outside activities such as snow skiing, water skiing, and boating.

Melanie Leister, LPN

I look forward to helping you improve your quality of life. I will be there to walk you through office visits, procedures or just to answer your questions or concerns. I have a wide range nursing experience from hospital and home care to clinical research. I enjoy helping women choose the best way to improve their health and well-being. In my spare time my husband, our two boys and our two dogs keep me very busy. We enjoy outdoor sports, camping, gardening and spending time with friends.

Ann Sawka

I started in the medical field 18 years ago when I joined the United States Air Force. I am currently serving active duty in the Guards and served in Operation Enduring Freedom. I have worked in hospitals as well as doctor’s offices to fill my desire to help other people. When I am not working or on duty I enjoy spending time with my son and his sport activities and having a good time with my family and friends.

Valerie Schissler, MSN, CRNP

Nurse Practitioner
As a nurse practitioner in women’s health, I enjoy empowering women to take care of themselves and achieve their optimal well being. The change that occurs in a women’s life after effective treatment of pelvic support defects and incontinence is phenomenal. I love hearing the words “I have my life back.” Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband, Ray and daughter Olivia, who’s almost two and makes even everyday activities fun.