About Us
The Genesis
Dr. Kerry Reding, an epidemiologist on faculty at the University of Washington, studies the factors that contribute to people surviving cancer. She has spotted similar patterns of healthy day-to-day living in Italians which may explain lifespans that average five years longer than Americans. She began taking undergraduates to Italy to study these patterns, with particular focus on the social structure, diet, and exercise of Italians living in Tuscany, Sardinia, Piedmont, and Sicily.
Upon returning from her trips to Italy, adult friends were very curious about the student experience and envious of the chance to study in one of the world’s most beloved places. Struck by this response, Kerry started talking with her partner, Greg Amrofell, and her sister, Emilie Marchio, about creating travel experiences that would enable Americans to understand and apply the lessons of Italian longevity.
Like a great Italian meal, Immersive Explorations came about through a family effort. Greg and Emilie, both action-oriented professionals with experience in health and education, helped Kerry shape the idea of bringing health professionals to Italy to learn and experience the latest on longevity so they could share vivid insights with colleagues and patients.
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Dr. Kerry Reding, PhD, MPH, RN
Kerry is an expert in the lifestyle factors that influence cancer survivorship, with a particular focus on evidence-based strategies for improved health and well-being.
With years of experience as a researcher and educator, Kerry has helped health professionals deepen their understanding of how diet, exercise, sleep, and social engagement can support cancer recovery and long-term survivorship. She has designed and led immersive undergraduate study abroad programs in Italy.
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Greg Amrofell, MBA
Greg is a seasoned entrepreneur and executive who is known for delivering innovations that achieve positiveimpacts for individuals, organizations, and communities.
Greg has honed a human centered design approach to his work in health, education, and technology. He is skilled at gathering stakeholder insights which he translates into novel products, perspectives and experiences. This ability has him working as a coach, consultant, and creator.
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Emilie Marchio, M.Ed
Emilie Marchio is a dedicated educator and skilled curriculum developer with extensive experience in designing innovative learning programs and managing complex educational projects.
Emilie’s expertise spans curriculum design, instructional strategy, and the integration of technology to support modern learning environments. As a seasoned project manager, Emilie excels in coordinating cross-functional teams, meeting tight deadlines, and ensuring the successful delivery of educational initiatives.
Earn Continuing Medical Education Credit
Many practitioners note that training in lifestyle medicine is not an active part of their traditional training and value this program for the chance to learn the science, develop firsthand perspectives on its application, and explore how to translate this into practical guidance that patients can readily put to use.
This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) through the joint providership of University of Washington School of Medicine and Immersive Explorations. The University of Washington School of Medicine is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians.
The University of Washington School of Medicine designates this live activity for a maximum of 20 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
