Dr. Ryan Foulkes, DNP

Ryan is thrilled to join the Santa Clara Vanguard Health and Wellness Team. His journey in the performing arts began in high school, where he played baritone and sousaphone in the marching band. Fueled by a deep passion for music, he initially pursued a degree in music education before discovering a calling for teaching more broadly. He ultimately earned a degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Music. Ryan’s drive to serve others led him to a career in healthcare—first becoming an EMT, then a Paramedic, and eventually earning his nursing degree. His commitment to clinical excellence culminated in a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), blending his passions for education, health, and service.

Ryan works as a Nurse Practitioner for the University of Iowa. He also works with CARE Ambulance, providing medical coverage for RAGBRAI, the annual cross-state bike ride held every July in Iowa. With credentials as both a paramedic and a nurse practitioner, he has a deep passion for emergency and event medicine.