Board of Directors

John Matthew Upledger is the CEO of Upledger Institute International. For 25 years, he has been actively engaged in all aspects of the organization — from education to clinical services. His strict adherence to delivering high-quality continuing education has solidly positioned UII as the leading provider in manual therapy education. His efforts to maintain the authenticity of CranioSacral Therapy and secure his father's legacy prompted John Matthew to pledge $1 million in funding and services over the next ten years to the Dr. John E. Upledger Foundation... this pledge is to help insure that 100% of all donated funds go to the direct beneficiaries of the Foundation and it's philanthropic programs.

Michele Metzger has been an integral member of the Upledger team since 1992. After earning her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Dayton, she relocated to Florida and began building a distinguished career in continuing education for healthcare professionals.

Over more than three decades, Michele has developed extensive expertise in program management and operations, making her exceptionally well qualified to lead the Upledger Foundation. Her experience includes overseeing both the Educational Services and Facilitator teams, coordinating educational initiatives, and ensuring the successful delivery of programs that support healthcare practitioners worldwide. Michele also serves as a vital liaison between students, teaching staff, and organizational leadership, fostering collaboration, communication, and excellence across all levels of the organization. Her ability to build strong relationships and support international educational initiatives reflects her commitment to advancing the Foundation's mission and strengthening the global Upledger community.

Bob Lynch has been a real estate broker for Illustrated Properties, specializing in residential properties in Palm Beach and Martin counties since 1988. In was in this capacity that Bob came to know Dr. John and the Upledger Institute. However, Bob's relationship with Dr. John quickly evolved from realtor to patient when he disclosed his serious mobility issues resulting from prior sports injuries. Thanks to Dr. John's treatment, Bob experienced increased mobility and a return to optimum health. Bob's gratitude for Dr .John's treatment and friendship as well as his desire to give back to his community motivates his service on our Board of Directors.

Allen Merrell co-founded The Upledger Institute with Dr. John Upledger in 1985. As CEO, he helped get the business, marketing, and seminar side up and running throughout the United States and Canada. In 1991, he turned the reins over to John Matthew Upledger, who continued to build and make the Institute what it is today. Allen went on to form The A.W.Merrell Group, a computer consulting firm with which he remains involved.

Author, Former President of MIRA, Mental Illness Research Association, supported an 800 school mental health program designed to de-stigmatize mental health issues, Campaign Manager, RABAC, Real Americans Buy American Cars, successfully launched a campaign to promote "Buying American" to bolster the slumping American auto industry, Former High Fashion Model and Investor. Mary Jean resides in Juno Beach, Fl and Asheville, NC with her husband, Dr. Gerard W. Teachman and their cat, Jackson.

Jackie has served as Director of Marketing for the International Alliance of Healthcare Educators since 2013, and currently is Director of Public Relations. Jackie is committed to building the awareness and availability of complementary healthcare options offered by Upledger and Barral Institutes. She also serves as Director of the Executive Women of The Palm Beaches, is a member of the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) and a current member and former Board member of Leadership Palm Beach County (LPBC).

Steve is a Florida native, and has been a valued team member of International Alliance of Healthcare Educators since 1998. He supports not only technology, but facilities and seminar operations as well. A Board Member since 2023, he is committed to raising awareness of the programs offered by the Dr. John E. Upledger Foundation.