About

WHO WE ARE

The Denver Osteopathic Foundation is a non-profit organization (501)(c)(3) made up of osteopathic physicians and others interested in advancing medicine and promoting health.

WHAT WE DO

Foundation contributors share a common objective – to create futures in osteopathic medicine by raising and administering funds for osteopathic medical education scholarships and by representing the osteopathic profession through charitable work in the community. Contributors commit financially to the Foundation’s programs, which in turn, help osteopathic physicians give their patients the best care possible.

Through contributions, donations and grant funding, the Denver Osteopathic Foundation conducts a variety of elementary school age education programs designed to promote health and prevent injury.

MEET THE TEAM

The Denver Osteopathic Foundation is lead by a dedicated group of osteopathic physicians, business leaders, and the Foundation’s Executive Director.

Dr. Bobby Petro

D.O. President
Dr. Bobby Petro earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Sciences from the University of California Santa Cruz. He went on to complete medical school at Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine. He also earned a Flight Surgeon Certification at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio. Bobby also completed a fellowship in sports medicine and has a special interest in musculoskeletal care.
Dr. Petro is married and a proud father of two boys. In his spare time he enjoys a variety of active hobbies including cycling, hiking, and practicing yoga. He also enjoys exploring mountains and towns in Colorado and spending time with his wife, sons, and dogs. He also speaks Spanish.

Julie Collett

Executive Director

Julie is a registered dental hygienist with 15+ years of nonprofit management experience. She brings expertise in program development, community outreach, public relations and event planning. As a strategic planner, Julie implements solutions to increase organization efficiency and productivity. Julie is a skilled relationship builder who prides herself on developing strong and successful partnerships. She is a well-respected leader in the nonprofit community.

Dr. Heather Ferrill

D.O.

Dr. Heather Ferrill is originally from Ann Arbor, Michigan. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University in 1989 and then her DO from Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2000. In 2010, she earned her Masters in Medical Education and Leadership from the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine.
In 2013, Dr. Ferrill joined RVU as a professor and Chair of Osteopathic Principles and Practice Department. In 2019, she assumed the role of Associate Dean of Preclinical Education. Presently she is the Dean at Rocky Vista University.
Dr. Ferrill has been married to her husband Jay, for 20 years and has two sons. She has been practicing yoga for 20 years and loves to travel, being outdoors and running.

Jill Pitcher

D.O. Treasurer

Currently an Associate Professor of Family Medicine Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dr. Pitcher attended Colorado State University (B.S. in Human Resource Science, Minor in Human Nutrition), Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, CA (Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine), and completed a Family Medicine Internship and Residency St Luke’s Medical Center in Denver, CO.

David Ross

D.O., FACEP Vice President

David Ross is Associate Professor of Specialty Medicine and in the Office of Simulation in Medicine and Surgery, at Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine. He serves as the Director of Rural and Wilderness Medicine Track and the Course Director of the Military Medicine Program. He is an emergency physician and an emergency medical services (EMS) medical director. He is a past president of the Colorado Chapter of the American College of Emergency Physicians, past board member of the El Paso County Medical Society, current president of the Colorado Society of Osteopathic Medicine and a member of the board of the Denver Osteopathic Foundation. He is a graduate of Western University of the Health Sciences/College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific and a past United States Air Force flight surgeon, serving both on active duty and in the reserves.

Alyssa Inge

3rd year Medical Student Board Liaison

Unlike most, Alyssa took a very non-traditional path to medicine. As an undergrad at CU Boulder, she studied broadcast journalism and was an "Evans Scholar" through the Western Golf Association. Following graduation, Alyssa spent a couple years in sports broadcasting for Altitude Sports, before deciding to pursue a career in healthcare. She completed her nursing degree and ultimately decided to attend medical school. Alyssa is a first year osteopathic medical student at Rocky Vista University.

Dr. Lee Rosacci

D.O.

Dr. Lee Rosacci graduated with honors from Rocky Vista University College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2013. She has had more than 10 years of diverse experiences in medicine since graduating. Presently, Dr. Rosacci works as a hospitalists in an inpatient rehabilitation facility. She also works for Forte/ProHealthOne where she manages a team of physician assistants and NP’s servicing high turn SNF operating as post-surgical rehab unit. Lee also serves as a preceptor for medical students and residents attending Rocky Vista University.
Dr. Rosacci enjoys yoga, snowboarding , hiking with her dog, music, museums and concerts and spending time with her husband and son.

Brooke Emery

Brooke was born and raised in Chesapeake, Virgina. She attended the College of Charleston in South Carolina where she received a Bachelor of Science in Public Health. While in college she discovered her passion for community service and advocacy. She was an assistance research coordinator in the Department of Developmental Pediatrics at the Medical University of South Carlina. During her research, Brooke was able to form professional relationships with applied behavior analysis therapy centers and nonprofit organizations that focused on resource accessibility for families with children with autism. All her experiences have taught her the importance of advocating for each other to ensure that everyone is represented in their community. She finds it an honor to be able to represent RVU on the DOF Board.

Breea Diamond

Breea is a Colorado native and a graduate of both CSU and CU. As a non-traditional student, Breea has gained a diverse range of experience that has equipped her with strong skills in teaching, leadership, and program development. Currently she serves on the supervisory board of the Kenya Scoliosis Relief Initiative. Previously, she was a clinical researcher at Children’s Hospital where she learned the value of professional networking and was able to foster strong connections in the medical community. She is excited to be given the opportunity to be an RVU Student Rep on the DOF Board. Breea believes with her background, dedication to osteopathic medicine and community engagement will enable her to make meaningful contributions to DOF’s mission.

Osteopathy is founded upon, and sustained by,
the laws of Nature.

Our Mission

The Denver Osteopathic Foundation strives to enhance the awareness of osteopathic principles and practice through community involvement and support of medical education.