Our Leadership Team
Kristin Teplansky, PhD
Founder & Executive Director
Dr. Teplansky is an advocate and researcher with over 10 years of experience studying speech and swallowing in neurodegenerative disorders and laryngectomy using biosensor technologies. She founded DTAR to bridge the gap between research and real-world impact in dysphagia care.
Emily Rangel, B.S.
Co-Founder & Clinical Innovation
Emily brings clinical experience in speech-language therapy and has a special interest in researching the impact of neurogenic conditions (e.g., amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) on motor speech and swallowing function. She leads community engagement and ensures that DTAR remains a central hub where a wide range of stakeholders can connect, collaborate, and engage with practical and evolving resources.
Brandon Teplansky
Translation & Outreach
Brandon leads efforts to make DTAR’s content culturally responsive and multilingual, breaking down linguistic barriers and expanding our reach. He also interviews patients and caregivers to help share their stories, ensuring community voices are at the heart of our work.
Ernest Soeralaya
Technology Advisor
Ernest is a software engineer with over a decade of experience in medical software. At DTAR, he guides our technical strategy and supports efforts to address technology access challenges in rural and under-resourced settings.
Sarah Jernigan, RD, LD, IBCLC
Nutrition Specialist
Sarah develops accessible nutrition guidance on meal adaptations, food texture, and label literacy. Her work supports safer and nourishing eating experiences for individuals with dysphagia.
Derek Jernigan, DO, MS, MBA
Medical Advisor
Dr. Jernigan has a background in medicine and health systems. He advises on educational content and helps align DTAR’s outreach with real-world care environments, supporting efforts to close gaps in understanding and improve outcomes for those affected by dysphagia.