Faculty

Serving as School Director, Bryan brings more than 25 years of experience and a MS in Educational Leadership to our team. He has supported thousands of students, from local applicants to international learners, guiding them through admissions, financial aid, and student services with clarity and care. Bryan is passionate about helping students pursue meaningful careers in wellness and feels honored to walk alongside them as they begin their journey.

As a Greenville native with deep roots on the South Carolina coast, Amanda serves as the inviting first point of contact at Urban River Massage Institute. In her roles as Admissions Counselor, Office Administrator, and Clinic Supervisor, she leverages her management background and clinical experience as a Licensed Massage Therapist and Esthetician to provide an invaluable holistic perspective. Whether guiding students through enrollment or welcoming clients to our clinic, Amanda ensures a professional, supportive, and organized environment for everyone who walks through our doors.

Colleen Ballard is the School Administrator at Urban River Massage Institute and combines a background in accounting and financial leadership with real-world experience as a licensed massage therapist. After building a career in finance, she chose to follow her heart and transition into massage therapy in 2014. Having personally navigated a career change, Colleen understands the questions, risks, and excitement that come with starting something new. Her experience allows her to support students with both practical guidance and genuine empathy. She is committed to helping each student feel confident as they pursue a career that improves the lives of others.

Jennifer Desrosiers is a full-time Lead Instructor at Urban River Massage Institute with experience spanning spa, chiropractic, retail, and hospital settings. Her work as a hospice massage therapist deeply shaped her belief in the healing power of touch and its impact on the nervous system. Jennifer teaches from a holistic perspective, emphasizing how massage supports the body’s natural ability to restore and heal. She is passionate about equipping students with both technical skill and compassionate presence.

Sam Ballard began his professional journey in graphic design earning his BA in Graphic design from Anderson University, before choosing a career that allowed him to directly serve and support others. He has been a licensed massage therapist for eight years and specializes in pain relief, with certifications in several advanced modalities. Sam brings both creativity and clinical skill into the classroom. He loves teaching massage therapy techniques and theory and is deeply invested in helping students build confidence as they develop their craft. Watching new therapists grow is one of the most rewarding parts of his work.

Dr. David Miller brings over three decades of clinical chiropractic experience to Urban River Massage Institute, with specialized training in functional neurology and clinical nutrition. In addition to private practice, he has served as a university-level educator, supervising interns in clinical rotations and developing laboratory and anatomy coursework. He holds advanced degrees in biology and anatomy and has contributed to professional continuing education programs. Dr. Miller is passionate about equipping students with a deep understanding of anatomy and clinical reasoning. His teaching bridges scientific precision with practical application.

Donna is an instructor at Urban River Massage Institute with a background in education and more than two decades of experience as a business owner and licensed massage therapist. Her work is deeply informed by trauma awareness and holistic approaches to personal growth. Donna is passionate about helping students develop both technical skill and emotional intelligence as they navigate their educational and professional journeys. She brings compassion, structure, and real-world perspective into the classroom.

Don Taylor is the Founder of Urban River Massage Institute and a lifelong learner with a background spanning engineering, business, and advanced educational leadership. He holds graduate degrees in electrical engineering and business administration and is currently pursuing doctoral studies in educational leadership. Don’s diverse academic journey reflects his belief that strong institutions are built on thoughtful structure, innovation, and continuous growth. His leadership blends analytical thinking with a deep commitment to education. Through Urban River, Don is dedicated to shaping a school that prepares students not just for graduation, but for lasting careers.

Caroline Taylor is the Co-Founder of Urban River Massage Institute and brings a lifelong commitment to education, entrepreneurship, and community leadership. After beginning her career in education, she built and expanded three successful spas, deepening her passion for the wellness industry. Caroline believes massage therapy has the power to change lives and connect people from all walks of life. Her heart for community and mentorship continues to shape the mission and culture of Urban River.