Donna started her nursing career as a graduate of Mountainside Hospital School of Nursing, and then received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from William Paterson University. After 10 years as a labor and delivery nurse, Donna returned to Columbia University and was awarded a Master of Science degree in nursing and midwifery in 1990. She has worked in a number of midwifery practices, including both hospital and private settings as well as in a free standing birthing center. Donna is a founding partner of Avalon-A Center for Women’s Health. She is an active member of the American College of Nurse-Midwives, a member of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the Association of Reproductive Health Professionals, and the American Association of Legal Nurse Consultants. Donna is the proud mother of Jennifer, Chris and Amanda and has three grandchildren.

JoAnn Yates received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Seton Hall University in 1975, and a Master of Science degree in nursing and midwifery in 1990 from Columbia University. Prior to completing her graduate degree she practiced as a labor and delivery nurse at Mountainside Hospital for 15 years. Since becoming a CNM, she has worked in both hospital-based and private practices. JoAnn is a founding partner of Avalon-A Center for Women's Health. She is an active member of the American College of Nurse-Midwives, a member of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the Association of Reproductive Health Professionals, and the American Association of Legal Nurse Consultants. She is the proud mom of 2 sons, Doug and Brad.

Joanne Cunha had always wanted to pursue women's health and originally planned to become an OB/GYN physician. While receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences from Rutgers University, NJ, she started working in the medical field. She quickly realized the importance of the role of the advanced practice nurse in a patient's life, and decided to switch her career path to midwifery. She found that midwifery is the perfect balance between medicine and the development of caring relationships with women as she helps them bring new lives into the world. Joanne obtained Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in Nursing from Columbia University in New York, specializing in Midwifery and Women's Health. She lives in Rockaway, NJ, with her supportive husband Manny, her beautiful daughter Audrey, and her dog Bonnie.

Lisa Millstein brings over 25 years of experience to Avalon as both a certified nurse-midwife and a family nurse practitioner, with extensive knowledge in family planning. She holds degrees from New York University, Pace University, and University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Lisa is mom to 3 children, Zoe, Max and Sophie.

Emily Lavorgna is our office manager at the new Morristown office. She is a recent graduate from Ramapo College of New Jersey where she majored and received her degree in psychology.