Our Leadership Team

Kathy Wheeler, Executive Director at Reproductive Science Center of the San Francisco Bay AreaKathy Wheeler, Executive Director

Kathy brings a wealth of healthcare experience to Reproductive Science Center of the San Francisco Bay Area, with a background that encompasses both clinical and administrative roles. Her most recent position was as the Regional Operations Director for Vein Clinics of America.

She’s enthusiastic about joining our team, where she can share her dedication to working with like-minded individuals committed to making a difference. Originally from Chicago, Kathy not only brings a commitment to healthcare excellence but also a profound passion for the performing arts.

When she’s not working, she indulges in her love for theater, enjoys hiking and cherishes family time with her husband and teen daughter.

Dr. Oleksii Barash Lab Director | Reproductive Science Center of the San Francisco Bay AreaOleksii Barash, Ph.D., HCLD, Laboratory Director

Dr. Oleksii Barash has served as a laboratory director at Reproductive Science Center of the San Francisco Bay Area since January 2021 and has held a position with the lab since 2012. He is a board-certified, high-complexity clinical lab director (HCLD) in the discipline of embryology.

Dr. Barash is also a member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology. His areas of interest include preimplantation embryo culture, preimplantation genetic testing, machine learning, and data driven clinical decision making during infertility treatment.

Dr. Barash is fluent in English, Russian and his native language Ukrainian. His hobbies are hiking, photography, software development, traveling and reading.

JoAnne Brian, Director of Practice Development

A 20-year veteran of the healthcare field, Ms. Brian graduated from DeAnza College in 1983 with an AS degree in physical therapy, later becoming a licensed physical therapist assistant. In 1997 she decided to pursue a career in healthcare sales and marketing, going on to become regional sales director for a national occupational healthcare provider. Her responsibilities on the RSC leadership team include helping to improve patient satisfaction and public and professional relations in the Bay area.

Breeann Pletikosic, Human Resources Manager

Breeann Pletikosic joined Reproductive Science Center of the San Francisco Bay Area in July 2015, and is currently serving as HR and PSS Manager. She joins RSC’s leadership team with over 10 years’ experience in human resources and office management. She is certified as a Senior Professional in Human Resources with HRCI, has a B.S. in Accounting, and is a member of the Society for Human Resource Management and the Northern California Human Resources Association.

Samantha Smith, RN, BSN, Clinical Operations Director

A 25-year veteran of the healthcare field, Samantha brings her experience in OB/GYN nursing and management to oversee clinical operations at RSC. She earned her nursing license in 2009, a Bachelor of Science in nursing in 2013 and a certificate in Reproductive Endocrinology from the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. She is a member of the American Nurses Association, American Society for Reproductive Medicine and the Pacific Coast Reproductive Society. Samantha is known for her strong commitment to excellence, patient satisfaction and providing compassionate care.

Mother kissing little baby at home

Breaking Barriers, Building Families

Since 1983, we have pioneered fertility treatment for every kind of family. We want to help you achieve your dream of having a baby.

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