MEET YOUR TEAM IN KIDNEY CARE
Your Richmond, Virginia Kidney Specialists
Meet your team at Richmond Nephrology Associates that specializes in the treatment of kidney diseases. Our kidney specialists have been providing the best care in the industry for over 35 years. We’re proud to serve our patients with excellence and have been named Richmond’s “Top Docs” on multiple occasions.
We pride ourselves in making our patients well informed of their disease and their treatments so that they can be an integral part of their medical care. Our kidney specialists strive to be available for our patients as they need us because we know it is not easy to live with uncertainty when it involves one’s health.
MEET YOUR TEAM OF APPs
Ananda Ablack
PA-C
Ananda Ablack, PA-C
Ananda Ablack, PA-C, earned her Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences before pursuing her healthcare training with a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from James Madison University. She is a board certified Physician Assistant through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA).
Ananda has a special interest in acute renal injuries, chronic kidney disease and dialysis. She thoroughly enjoys the intricacies of renal care and the wide array of conditions while building lasting and trusting relationships with patients.
With a focus on patient-centered care, Ananda prioritizes a patient’s values, goals and personal beliefs, ensuring their treatment goes beyond a medical condition or diagnosis. Additionally, Ananda enjoys making a difference by providing mentorship opportunities for the youth and individuals interested in the medical field.
Outside of work, you’ll find Ananda weightlifting, trying new restaurants, and spending time with family and friends. She also enjoys outdoor activities and walks with her dog, Zoey.
Education & Fellowships
- Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences, James Madison University
- Master of Physician Assistant Studies, James Madison University
Certifications & Accomplishments
- Board Certified Physician Assistant, NCCPA
Leigh Hanley
AGACNP-BC
Leigh Hanley, AGACNP-BC
Leigh has been with Richmond Nephrology Associates since 2015. Patient visits are focused on education about chronic kidney disease, anemia management, bone mineral metabolism abnormalities, healthy lifestyle choices, dietary education and lab review.
She is a member of the Virginia Council of Nurse Practitioners, Phi Kappa Phi and Tri Sigma alumna.
Leigh Hanley works with our End-Stage Renal Disease patients at our Laburnum and Midlothian dialysis units. She covers Davita units at Amelia, Charter Colony, and Midlothian.
She also sees patients at our Midlothian location.
Education & Fellowships
- 2014 Medical College of Virginia, School of Nursing, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, MS
- 2007 Medical College of Virginia, School of Nursing, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, BS-Nursing
Certifications & Accomplishments
- Board Certified Nurse Practitioner
Morgan Hebert
PA-C
Morgan Hebert, PA-C
Morgan Hebert holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Biology and a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from Michigan State University, which she earned in 2018. She furthered her education by obtaining a Master of Social Work degree from Tulane University. Following her tenure as a case manager at UMC in New Orleans, Morgan recognized her profound passion for medicine. She pursued this passion at Charleston Southern University where she obtained her Master of Physician Assistant Studies in 2023.
Morgan is dedicated to providing quality healthcare and will be serving patients primarily within Chippenham, Johnston Willis, and Saint Francis hospitals on Richmond Southside.
Education & Fellowships
- 2018, Michigan State University, Bachelor of Science in Human Biology
- 2018, Michigan State University, Bachelor of Arts in Social Work
- 2019, Tulane University, Master of Social Work
- 2023, Charleston Southern University, Master of Physician Assistant Studies
Certifications & Accomplishments
- Board Certified Physician Assistant
Catherine Mayo
FNP-C
Catherine Mayo, FNP-C
Before working in nephrology, Catherine spent 8 years of her nursing career in emergency and trauma medicine. She chose to switch specialties because she wanted to use her knowledge in a different way to help patients manage their chronic conditions. Catherine always aims to make her patients feel heard and respected, and thoroughly educates them on their condition and treatment. Within the field of nephrology, she is particularly interested in acute renal injuries, chronic kidney disease, electrolyte disturbances and end-stage renal disease/dialysis.
Catherine covers Davita units at Forest Hill, Laburnum, and Puddledock. She sees patients at the Hioaks office.
Outside the office, Catherine enjoys spending time with her family and exploring new areas of Richmond.
Education & Fellowships
- James Madison University, Harrisonburg, VA, BSN with a minor in Spanish
- Marymount University, Arlington, VA, MSN
Certifications & Accomplishments
- Board certified as a family nurse practitioner by the Virginia Board of Nursing
- Board certified as a family nurse practitioner by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners
- Advanced Trauma Care for Nurses Certified
- Acute Life Care Support & Basic Life Support Certified
- Nominated for Critical Care Nurse of the Year in 2017 at George Washington University
- President of Nursing Class at James Madison University
Emily Ramirez
PA
Emily Ramirez, PA
Emily Ramirez, PA, is a Physician Assistant who received her Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Clarkson University. Recognized for her excellence in clinical leadership and commitment to patient care, she earned the Hospitalist APC of the Year Award in 2022.
Emily has a decade of experience working in internal medicine and is excited to expand her skills in renal care. She loved working alongside our nephrology group as a hospital medicine provider for the last several years, where her physician mentor inspired her to learn more about chronic kidney disease. The most rewarding part of her job is witnessing her patients improve. It makes her incredibly happy to run into her patients out and about in the community!
Emily has completed several half marathons, and outside of the office, you can find her staying active, enjoying HIIT classes and running. She is married to a retired marine corps veteran and has two boys, two dogs and two cats. She values nothing more than spending time with her family and participating in her children’s activities.
Education & Fellowships
- Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY, MS in Physician Assistant Studies
Certifications & Accomplishments
- Hospitalist APC of the Year Award
Gil Rubia
MSN, AGACNP-BC
Gil Rubia, MSN, AGACNP-BC
He is part of RNA’s Nephrowatch, nocturnal coverage serving seven hospitals in the Richmond metro area.
Outside of work, Gil stays abreast of the latest research, ensuring that his patients receive exceptional care. For fun, he enjoys spending time with his family as well as listening to music and tinkering with computers.
Education
- Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA
- Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Chemistry, 2013
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing, 2014
- Master of Nursing, Adult-Geriatric Acute Care Nurse Practitioner, 2022
Heidi Uvodich
PA-C
Heidi Uvodich, PA-C
Heidi Uvodich, PA-C, achieved a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics and Exercise Science from Virginia Tech. Following, she earned a Master of Physician Assistant Studies from James Madison University. She is a board certified Physician Assistant through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA).
With three years of experience as a clinical dietitian, Heidi brings a strong background in nutrition with a special focus on chronic kidney disease. She is passionate about educating patients on the science of food and its essential role in managing and improving kidney health.
In her free time, you’ll find Heidi working out, traveling and participating in Christian ministry and missions.
Education & Fellowships
- Bachelor of Science in Dietetics and Exercise Science, Virginia Tech
- Master of Physician Assistant Studies, James Madison University
Certifications & Accomplishments
- Board Certified Physician Assistant, NCCPA
Kendall Weinert
FNP-BC
Kendall Weinert, FNP-BC
Kendall Weinert received her undergraduate degree in Biology from the University of Virginia in 2002. She enrolled in the accelerated second degree program at the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Nursing in May 2002. She completed her master’s degree and was certified as a Family Nurse Practitioner in August 2005.
Kendall was the first nurse practitioner to join Richmond Nephrology Associates. Patient visits are focused on education about chronic kidney disease, anemia management, bone mineral metabolism abnormalities, healthy lifestyle choices, dietary education and lab review. She has been a member of the American Nephrology Nurses Association since 2005. She is also a member of the Virginia Council of Nurse Practitioners.
She assists Physicians in the care of patients at the Chester and Hioaks dialysis units.
Kendall sees patients at our Southside location.
Education & Fellowships
- 2005, Medical College of Virginia, School of Nursing, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, MSN
- 2003, Medical College of Virginia, School of Nursing, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, BS-Nursing
- 2002, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, BA-Biology
Certifications & Accomplishments
- Autonomous Practice – Family 2021 – present
- Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner 2005- present
Beth Hensley
PA-C, MHS
Beth Hensley, PA-C, MHS
Beth Hensley, PA-C, MHS, earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of South Carolina, her Bachelor of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from East Carolina University and her Master of Health Sciences from Duke University.
Beth received special recognition for her achievements and knowledge in surgery from the NCCPA. She is a member of the Virginia Academy of Physician Assistants, American Academy of Physician Assistants and the Society of Critical Care Medicine.
Beth brings a wealth of experience to Richmond Nephrology Associates having previously practiced in family medicine, pulmonary medicine, sleep medicine and critical care for a number of years. Beth values building long-term relationships with her patients and their families while managing chronic diseases over time.
Beth is married with three children and spends her free time with her family, often cheering on her kids at their sporting events. You’ll also find her rooting for the Gamecocks during football games and women’s basketball games.
Saadia Jones
PA-C
Saadia Jones, PA-C
Saadia Jones, PA-C, is a board certified Physician Assistant who joined Richmond Nephrology Associates in 2025. She earned an Associate of Applied Science and an Associate of Science in Respiratory Therapy before going on to achieve a Bachelor of Biology. After solidifying a strong academic foundation, Saadia went on to earn a Master of Medical Science in Physician Assistant Studies.
Saadia’s interest in nephrology began during her medical career and throughout her training in PA school, where she found herself drawn to the intricacies of the kidneys. Her favorite part of the job is providing a continuum of care for her patients and building lasting relationships with them. Using evidence-based medicine and an open ear approach, she strives to develop personalized treatment plans to support her patients’ goals.
Outside of work, Saadia enjoys fusion cooking, reading and taking walks with her husband. Having grown up in Richmond, Saadia appreciates the area’s many parks and outdoor spaces.
Education & Fellowships
- Associate of Applied Science
- Associate of Science in Respiratory Therapy
- Bachelor of Biology
- Master of Medical Science for Physician Assistant Studies
Certifications & Accomplishments
- Board Certified Physician Assistant, NCCPA
