Dr. Figgins brings a wealth of expertise in naturopathic medicine and nutrition education, with a career that reflects her commitment to holistic health and lifelong learning. For a decade, she served as a primary care naturopathic physician in her hometown of Ellensburg, WA, followed by five years as a naturopathic specialist in Walla Walla, WA. Her clinical experience laid a strong foundation for her subsequent transition into higher education, where she has made a significant impact.
Dr. Figgins has held faculty positions at the Huntington University of Health Sciences and the National University of Health Sciences, where she has taught a diverse array of courses that reflect her broad knowledge and passion for integrative nutrition. Her courses have included:
Advanced Biochemistry (BIO510)
Anatomy and Physiology (BIO230)
Capstone Project (NUT630)
Environmental Challenges and Solutions (HEA201)
Environmental Medicine, Toxicology, and Detoxification (NP6419N)
Functional Medicine and Nutrition (NUT650)
Herbal Science (HER101)
Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals (NUT730)
Nutrition Counseling (NUT401)
Nutrition Assessment (NUT530)
Organic and Biochemistry (CHE201)
Pregnancy, Pediatric & Adolescent Nutrition (NUT221)
Vegetarian Nutrition (NUT102)
Her experience in delivering these courses has deepened her dedication to lifestyle medicine and ignited a profound love for teaching. This passion for education extends beyond the realm of higher learning into secondary education. Dr. Figgins recently completed a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) and holds endorsements in Biology and General Science. She is also pursuing a Career and Technical Education (CTE) endorsement in healthcare therapeutics.
In addition to her extensive background in naturopathic medicine and nutrition education, Dr. Figgins has a deep connection to sustainable agriculture through her family's dry bean business in Quincy, WA. There she often enjoys accompanying her father to monitor bean crop health across their certified sustainable farming operation. This hands-on experience in food production, paired with her graduate certificate in sustainable agriculture, has enriched her understanding of the critical link between sustainable farming practices and the role of nutrient-dense foods in promoting health and preventing disease—a core principle of lifestyle medicine that she passionately advocates for in both her teaching and practice.
In addition to her academic and professional pursuits, Dr. Figgins is an active member of her community. You may find her substitute teaching in public schools or contributing her time as a PTA board member at her son’s school. Dr. Figgins’s dedication to both her profession and her community exemplifies her commitment to fostering health and education at all levels.
Educational Background:
Master of Arts in Teaching - Central Washington University
Graduate Certificate in Sustainable Agriculture - Washington State University
Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine - Bastyr University
Bachelor of Science in Biology - Gonzaga University
Licenses and Certifications:
Naturopathic Physician NT00001427 - Washington Department of Health
Education Certificate with Endorsements in Biology and General Science 596489E - State of Washington