Faculty

Jessica Barley, PhD, CNIM – Founding Director

Dr. Jessica Lauren Barley is a distinguished academic and clinical leader in the field of clinical neurophysiology. With a solid foundation built on excellence in education and research from recognized institutions, she has honed her expertise in intraoperative neurophysiologic monitoring and clinical innovation. Her dual appointments in the Departments of Neurology and Neurosurgery at the Medical University of South Carolina, along with her role as Director of the CNPS Education and Training Program, underscore her commitment to advancing both patient care and academic rigor. Recognized with awards for innovation and active participation in professional societies, Dr. Barley consistently drives forward initiatives that integrate cutting-edge research with clinical excellence, making her a pivotal figure in her field.

Lindsey Akers, MS, CNIM-CS – IONM Education Coordinator

Over the course of her 12-year career in intraoperative and clinical neurophysiology, Lindsey has exhibited ongoing intrigue, curiosity, and passion for the field. During her time at MUSC, Lindsey has risen from a Specialist II to a Specialist IV, while also obtaining her Master of Science in Neuroscience. She has helped develop a new, stackable credential for the field of IONM – the CNIM-CS, for complex spine procedures. Now, serving as the IONM Education Coordinator, Lindsey is further pursuing her love of the field, while developing and promoting quality education and training for IONM.

Jacob Myers, BS, R. EEG. T., CLTM - EEG Education Coordinator

As a student at Iowa State majoring in biology, working in the medical field was the far from Jacob’s mind. Following graduation, Jacob found himself in phlebotomy which sparked his interest in medicine. Soon thereafter, his scientific curiosities discovered neurophysiology and EEG. With 10+ years’ experience, Jacob’s achieved both basic and advanced R. EEG T. and CLTM credentials and is proficient in epilepsy surgery, advanced EEG procedures and testing, and patient report writing. Jacob’s professionalism extends as a professional book reviewer and organizer for medical and EEG conferences. Today, Jacob plans to pass his passion for EEG and patient care onto the next generation of technologists as EEG Education Coordinator.  

Lakota Stitt, MS, CNIM – IONM Clinical Coordinator

Lakota stems from a foundation in exercise science and neurophysiology, bringing a unique blend of clinical expertise and academic depth to her role. Currently, Lakota serves as the IONM Clinical Coordinator and Specialist III with a clinical background in complex cranial and spine procedures while focusing on refining monitoring techniques for higher-risk surgeries- from deep brain stimulation to speech and language mapping. Outside the OR and classroom, Lakota's co-authored peer-reviewed publications, presented original research internationally, and continues to explore how neurophysiology, data, and education intersect to elevate patient care.  

Brandi DiAsio, BHA – Business Manager

Specializing in healthcare administration and Neurophysiology for over 16 years, Brandi shifted from Head Administrator of MUSC's Clinical Neurophysiology Lab to bring her expertise to the CNPS Education and Training Program. As Business Manager, Brandi remains dedicated to students, employees, patient care, and the future of Neurosciences.