One Novant Health team member is sitting at a computer, the other is standing beside her and pointing at the computer screen.

Administrative staff

Discover the Benefits of Our Program

Elari Guy, M.Ed

Academic Specialist

Elari Guy, M.Ed Elari Guy is the Academic Specialist for the Novant Health Family Medicine Residency Program. A proud Tar Heel with advanced training and experience in education, Elari continuously works to improve the overall educational experience of our family medicine residents. From faculty development, coordinating didactics, and elective planning, Elari is passionate about creating a learning environment of growth, collaboration, and well-being for the team. Outside of the residency, you can find Elari spending time with her daughter, husband, and chocolate lab. If she's not with them, she's on her yoga mat, reading a good book, or at a live music event.

Zedy O'Brien, AAHA, CEAP

Executive assistant

Zedy O'Brien is an executive assistant with more than 20 years of experience in customer service, team leadership and management. O'Brien earned her Associate of Arts in health administration degree from Phoenix, Arizona-based Western International University and an administrative specialist certificate from UNC Charlotte. She joined Novant Health Lakeside Family Physicians in 2008 after first being introduced to the practice and its providers as a patient. O'Brien, a resident of Charlotte since 2001, is the mother of twins and enjoys biking, white water rafting, camping and other outdoor recreation with her family.

Cynthia Profera, AAS, C-TAGME

Residency program coordinator

Cynthia Profera is the program coordinator with over 25 years of experience in family medicine residency programs. She works to facilitate all aspects of the resident's experience, playing a key role in their development as future family physicians and leaders in healthcare and medical education. Cynthia holds an Associate of Applied Science degree in medical secretarial science as well as an Associate of Applied Science degree in business administration from Nassau Community College in Garden City, NY. Cynthia served on the board of directors of the Association of Family Medicine Administrators and currently serves on several committees. She is also a mentor for new coordinators. She enjoys exercise, needlework, reading and spending time with her cats.