At ACHS, leadership means more than just guiding an institution—it’s about cultivating a mission-driven community that empowers students to transform lives through holistic health and wellness. President Tracey Abell brings passion, experience, and authenticity to her role, and her leadership is helping ACHS evolve in powerful ways. In this interview, Tracey shares insights on her journey, the future of wellness education, and what it truly means to support students in today’s changing educational landscape.
Leadership & Vision
Q: What inspired you to pursue leadership in higher education, and what drives you today?
I began exploring a profession in health and wellness by studying massage after high school. During my studies, I developed a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of body systems
and how wellness can impact quality of life. This experience reinforced my interest in pursuing a career where I could help others. In my early 20s, I found ACHS and began learning more about complementary medicine and the field of higher education. Today, I’m driven by the incredible work of our students and graduates around the world. I believe in lifelong learning. I was an adult student myself, finishing my Bachelor’s and Master’s in my 30s. It’s powerful to always strive to grow, stay curious, and find a connection with a deeper purpose.
Q: What’s your vision for the future of ACHS, and how do you see the institution evolving over the next five years?
This is a pivotal time for higher education, in general, and a very exciting time for the health and wellness sector. Many are looking for education to adapt and evolve – from how we deliver education to how we engage with content. We’ve come to realize how precious time is, and I think we’re all seeking to maximize our time while we expand our knowledge. ACHS is uniquely positioned to meet this moment by offering evidence-based wellness education across all levels—from micro-credentials to advanced degrees. I see growth in professional development and greater collaboration with corporations and other educational institutions with a shared mission of bringing wellness to communities. We’ll continue to expand community initiatives through the ACHS Foundation and partnerships with social enterprises globally. Technology will also play a critical role in allowing us to scale while maintaining the individualized care that sets ACHS apart.
Q: How do you define student success, and what innovative ways is ACHS supporting students to achieve their goals?
Success is deeply personal for us all. For me, it means helping students get the support they need to meet their personal and professional goals. At ACHS, we create a community that encourages curiosity and wellness as a daily practice. We offer individualized student services, faculty mentorship, peer tutoring, and wellness tools to help navigate life’s challenges. Innovation at ACHS isn’t just about adopting the latest tech—it’s about finding better, more holistic ways to support our students and bring our best selves to our work and our industry. In today’s fast-paced world, our focus on human connection and community is part of what makes us truly innovative.
Personal Insights
Q: What’s a lesson you’ve learned as a leader that you wish you knew when you started?
There are so many lessons I’ve learned—and continue to learn. One is that the “how” is not always as important as the “why” and the outcome. People have different ways of approaching projects, and that diversity is a strength. Another lesson is that progress doesn’t require chaos. Some people may measure progress by productivity. While this is important to keep moving forward, it’s important to be strategic with our energy and avoid burnout. And perhaps most importantly, I’ve learned to stay human. Leadership can be a heavy responsibility, and there’s a tendency to always put on a brave face. Everyone wants their leaders to be confident about where the institution is going and how we’ll get there, and I think teams appreciate vulnerability and honesty.
Q: Who has been the most significant influence on your leadership style?
My grandmother has been a powerful influence—she was a nurse, worked in academic leadership, and ran an organizational management consulting business. I’ve also been fortunate to have several mentors throughout my career. One of my first bosses taught me the value of staying calm, having a sense of humor, and being adaptable. And I’ve learned a great deal from our Founding President, Dorene Petersen, whose persistence, curiosity, and visionary mindset continue to inspire me.
Q: What’s a book, podcast, or resource that’s inspired your leadership approach?
Right now, I’m reading Co-Intelligence: Living and Working with AI by Ethan Mollick. We have an AI for Community Engagement (ACE) initiative at ACHS, and I’m really enjoying diving into how AI can facilitate learning and support many other areas of how we work and learn. A team member also recently gave me a fantastic book as a work anniversary gift that I’m really enjoying, The Let Them Theory.
Industry Trends & Innovation
Q: What trends in integrative health and wellness education are you most excited about right now?
I am excited about all of the new and innovative products being developed using botanicals, essential oils, holistic nutrition, and overall personalized medicine. I’ve been doing research for an upcoming presentation on emerging markets for essential oils and aromatherapy, and it has been fascinating to dive deep into the R&D happening right now—functional fragrances and neurocosmetics, for example. While some innovations may be new terms for existing products, developers are moving faster than ever and driving significant growth. This makes education even more important for both product developers and consumers. I’m thrilled to see the market leaning into evidence-based practices and clinical research.
I’m also excited at how our graduates are really living our mission to lead the advancement of evidence-based integrative health and wellness education. I had the honor of meeting with our graduate Amy Wing (pictured with me above) at the recent National Association of Nutrition Professionals HEALCon conference and getting a first look at her new book, Natural Foods from the Tapestry of Life.
Q: How is ACHS preparing students for the workforce of the future, especially in fields like holistic nutrition and herbal medicine?
ACHS is working to forge professional pathways for graduates who want to become practitioners, coaches, wellness program developers, or work in healthcare settings. We’re integrating key workforce skills into our curriculum—presentation and communication skills, digital and AI literacy, and research capabilities. We also partner with organizations and gather input from employers and industry leaders through our annual Employer Summit and Program Advisory Councils.
Q: What role does technology play in improving online education at ACHS?
Technology is foundational at ACHS. It shapes how we communicate, provide services, and deliver courses. When used well, it enhances learning and fosters engagement. We’ve always been early adopters of technology and are piloting tools constantly. Generative AI is transforming education, and ACHS has embraced it through our ACE Initiative, a formal program for training staff, faculty, and students. We’re excited about the potential of AI to further support learning.
Institutional Impact
Q: How does ACHS foster partnerships that benefit students and alumni in meaningful ways?
We meet our partners where they are—whether that’s designing custom curriculum or offering tuition discounts. We work with organizations that share our mission and want to make a positive impact. We also leverage partnerships to provide our students and alumni with discounted business services, helping them launch or grow their practices.
Q: Can you share a recent program or initiative that had a significant impact on students or the community?
The launch of the Doctor of Science in Integrative Health is a major milestone. ACHS now offers a full academic pathway—from Associate to Doctorate—all online and accredited. This program also offers the only accredited terminal degree in the U.S. with an aromatherapy specialization. It’s our highest-enrolled launch ever, and student satisfaction and persistence have been incredibly strong.
Q: What unique contributions does ACHS make to the integrative health and wellness industry?
Founded in 1978, ACHS has been a pioneer—from setting educational standards in aromatherapy and holistic nutrition to emphasizing experiential learning and sustainable practice. We’ve always prioritized teaching both producers and consumers about the importance of sustainability and evidence-based approaches in wellness.
Creating Inclusive Pathways for All Learners
Q: What is ACHS doing to ensure it remains an inclusive learning environment?
We aim to make integrative health education accessible to everyone, globally. Our pillars of innovation, sustainability, and academic excellence support a learning framework that promotes access and positive community engagement. We’re committed to creating opportunities for students from all walks of life.
Q: How do you address the challenges faced by working adults balancing school, work, and life?
This is at the core of who we are. ACHS was founded by a single mom who needed flexible, home-based work. We continue that legacy with flexible weekly requirements, live sessions, and personalized academic advising and coaching. We want our students to succeed without sacrificing their dreams or wellness.
Student and Alumni Engagement
Q: What advice would you give to current ACHS students who want to make a lasting impact in their fields?
Never doubt yourself. There will always be something unfamiliar or uncomfortable. Push through it—you’ll grow. Whether it’s public speaking or writing your first wellness protocol, you’re capable. Keep going, laugh when you can, and remember that even small acts of care and knowledge-sharing can change lives.
Q: How do you stay connected to ACHS alumni, and why is that important?
Our alumni are a critical part of our success. We stay connected to support them, celebrate their achievements, and learn from their real-world experience. Their feedback helps us improve our programs and ensures we’re preparing future students for meaningful, long-term success.
Sustainability and Community Contribution
Q: Sustainability is a core value at ACHS. How is the college contributing to sustainable education and practices?
Sustainability is never a finished job—it’s ongoing. We consider it in everything from facilities management to curriculum design. We integrate sustainability into every program and teach our students about ethical sourcing, sustainable production, and the importance of global ecological health.
Q: In what ways can ACHS students and alumni contribute to global health and wellness through their careers?
There are countless ways—through professional practice, product development, education, and advocacy. Graduates can push for access to integrative care, promote sustainable business practices, and influence policies that help the industry grow responsibly. It’s about using your wellness education to spark real change.
Future Outlook
Q: If you could share one prediction about the future of higher education, what would it be?
Higher education will look very different even a year from now. AI, online learning, and societal shifts have permanently changed the landscape. That’s a good thing—the system has needed evolution. Institutions that succeed will be nimble, focused on improvement, and open to rethinking “how it’s always been done.”
Q: What’s next for ACHS, and how can students, alumni, and partners get involved?
Get involved! Be an advocate for what you believe in. Network. Build bridges with others in wellness and beyond. You never know where your next opportunity will come from—and your voice can make a difference.
Final Thoughts
President Tracey Abell’s leadership at ACHS is grounded in an unwavering belief in the power of education and wellness to transform lives. Her forward-thinking approach is helping ACHS adapt to the evolving needs of students, employers, and communities, ensuring that wellness education remains both relevant and impactful. As ACHS continues to grow, we do so with a clear mission: to empower holistic health leaders who are making a difference around the world.
