Meet the teachers behind SMC Academy.
Get to know the experienced instructors dedicated to guiding you through every step of your medical coding journey at SMC Academy.
From student mentor to industry leader.
Lora has a Bachelor of Science in Health Information Management from Illinois State University (ISU). During her time at ISU, Lora proctored exams and helped mentor underclassmen. This is when Lora became passionate about teaching and knew she wanted to help empower others through education. Lora has 10+ years of teaching experience in higher education.
Lora holds the RHIA, CCS, and CPC-I credentials and is an AAPC Approved Instructor. Former positions include HIT, Medical Coding, and CMA Instructor at Rend Lake College; HIT Capstone Instructor at Baptist Health System School of Health Professions; Coding Appeals Peer Review Auditor at Allmed; Medical Records Director at Vandalia Correctional Center; Biller/Coder at Heartcare Midwest; and Patient Sitter at Crossroads Community Hospital.
In 2022, Lora partnered with AAPC and started her Certified Professional Coder (CPC) training program, SMC Academy, LLC. With the help of TikTok (@sass.mama.coding), SMC Academy rapidly grew and is now considered a large partner with AAPC. Lora thrives in fast-paced and stimulating educational landscapes.
Outside of her professional life, Lora enjoys spending time with her family and friends. Her hobbies include hiking, reading, taekwondo, and volunteering in her local community. She is also a mentor to aspiring coders and an advocate for continuing education in the field.
Meet the rest of our team.
“Just wanted to let you know I took my CPC exam in July and passed! Thank you again! It was totally worth it and I’m glad I didn’t go to my community college. Now, my coworkers are interested in it, so hopefully they join your program.”
“Lora is an amazing teacher! She explains things in a way that can be easily understood. She answers emails and text messages in a timely manner. She is also very willing to help in any way she can. This program overall is very flexible and would fit into anyone's schedule. I...
“When I found SMC Academy and watched Lora on TikTok I knew, This training was the right one for me. The training has been extremely in-depth, and I have learned a lot from the interactive lectures. Lora has vast knowledge in the field and does a great job...
“Just wanted to let you know I took my CPC exam in July and passed! Thank you again! It was totally worth it and I’m glad I didn’t go to my community college. Now, my coworkers are interested in it, so hopefully they join your program.”
