Dr. Carlos Navarro Mora PT, M.Ed., is a Physical Therapist and Health Sciences leader with over a decade of experience overseeing university programs and modernizing curricula. His professional background is defined by his ability to ensure alignment with rigorous accreditation and quality standards, backed by strong expertise in administrative planning and academic operations.He is deeply involved in academic instruction, facilitating hands-on healthcare workshops and clinical simulations. His teaching approach emphasizes practical skill development, notably seen through his work delivering lectures in English for U.S. pre-med students participating in specialized medical immersion programs in Costa Rica. Carlos is dedicated to bridging the gap between theoretical health sciences and clinical practice. He is passionate about the continuous development of academic programs and the training of future healthcare professionals, leveraging his clinical and administrative experience to create impactful international learning opportunities.
Dr. María Paula Salas Torres is a Medical Doctor with a Bachelor’s Degree in Medicine and Surgery and specialized training in Clinical Imaging and Ultrasound. She has professional experience in general medicine, emergency care, and occupational health in both the public and private medical systems in Costa Rica. In addition to her clinical practice at the Hospital Metropolitano, she is also a university professor at Universidad Latina de Costa Rica. Her teaching approach focuses on fostering active learning, critical thinking, and the integration of theoretical knowledge with clinical practice. During her medical training, she completed clinical rotations at major public healthcare institutions including Hospital Rafael Ángel Calderón Guardia, Hospital Nacional de Niños (children's hospital), Hospital de la Mujer (women's hospital), and EBAIS community-based primary care centers. She speaks fluent English and is passionate about medical education, continuous professional development, and training of future healthcare professionals.
Janiva Cifuentes-Hiss – Director of Strategic Partnerships (Arcos Headquarters)
Janiva Cifuentes-Hiss has over 20 years of experience in study abroad designing and leading transformative programs across Latin America, Africa, and Europe. Janiva graduated from Pomona College with a B.A. in Latin American Studies and studied abroad at the University of Salamanca in Spain. She served as Costa Rica Resident Director from 2007–2020 and currently works for Arcos Headquarters where she collaborates with GEO to create immersive customized programs and internships for University of Oregon students.
Catalina Ovares – Costa Rica Resident Director
Catalina (Cata) is a native of Atenas, Costa Rica. She is a certified naturalist guide with extensive experience leading study abroad programs in Costa Rica. She is CPR and First Aid certified and enjoys soccer, horseback riding, and adventure sports. Catalina is responsible for reservations, logistics, and "behind the scenes program" planning for GEO programs for University of Oregon students.
Angélica Pérez – Costa Rica Program Director
Angélica (Angie) is from San José, Costa Rica, and has decades of experience leading study abroad programs in Costa Rica. She is a certified bilingual tour Guide, is First Aid and CPR certified, and is trained in leading groups with disabilities. She is very knowledgeable about culture, biodiversity and natural history. Angie leads all Arcos cultural activities and excursions, and is available to support University of Oregon students abroad with health, safety, and cultural immersion. She is on-call in case of emergencies 24/7.
Adriana Campos – Costa Rica Program Director
Adriana Campos is from Heredia, Costa Rica, and is a certified tour guide and has many years of experience in ecotourism, volunteer coordination, and environmental education. She is First Aid and CPR certified, has led workshops at the National Biodiversity Institute and is a certified children’s yoga instructor. Adri leads all Arcos cultural activities and excursions, and is available to support University of Oregon students abroad with health, safety, and cultural immersion. She is on-call in case of emergencies 24/7.
