The President of the National Health Association (NHA) serves as the primary leader and representative of the organization, steering its vision, mission, and strategic direction. As a passionate advocate for public health, wellness, and sustainable living, the President is pivotal in shaping the NHA’s policies, initiatives, and outreach efforts to promote evidence-based health education.

In addition to overseeing daily operations and organizational leadership, the President fosters collaboration with health professionals and community leaders to advance the Association’s goals of improving the nation’s health. Through key partnerships, educational programs, and national campaigns, the President is committed to driving positive change in the health sector, emphasizing the importance of preventative care, nutrition, and holistic well-being.

The President also ensures that the NHA remains at the forefront of health advocacy, supporting research, public awareness, and efforts that align with the Association’s core values. With a blend of strategic vision, scientific knowledge, and a deep commitment to public service, the President plays a critical role in shaping the future of health in the nation.

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Dr. Herbert M. Shelton (1948-1952)

Dr. Herbert Shelton co-founded the NHA (called The American Natural Hygiene Society initially) in 1948 and is considered the father of the Natural Hygiene Movement.

Director of Dr. Shelton’s Health School, editor of Dr. Shelton’s Hygienic Review, author of over 50 books, and public speaker. He was a teacher and a trailblazer in the modern natural hygiene movement. While some labeled him “too radical,” many others hailed him as the visionary who rekindled interest in this transformative approach to health and wellness.

Quote:
“Natural hygiene is defined as that branch of biology which designate the conditions upon which health depends, the means by which it may be sustained in all its virtue and purity while we have it, and the means upon its restoration rests when we have lost it. It is the Scientific application of the principles of nature in the preservation and restoration of health. “

–Herbert Shelton – From the July/Aug 1998 Edition of Health Science

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Dr. Christopher Gian-Cursio (1952-1953)

Christopher Gian-Cursio was a doctor, nutritionist, author, editor, and researcher.  He advocated alternative medicine, naturopathy, and what he would call Natural Hygiene. He was one of America’s most outspoken commentators on alternative medicine. Dr. Christopher Gian-Cursio’s unwavering stand against organized medicine exemplifies his determination and courage. 

Dr. Gian-Cursio co-founded the NHA (called The American Natural Hygiene Society initially) in 1948.

Quote:

“We must continue to devote ourselves unremittingly to the cause that seeks to restore man structurally and physiologically to the pristine state of years ago.”

— Christopher Gian-Cursio, From the July/Aug 1998 Edition of Health Science

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Dr. William Esser (1953-1954)

Dr. William L. Esser was an inspiring champion of optimal health and a groundbreaking visionary for wellness. His influential work as a writer, speaker, and clinician left an indelible mark through Esser’s Health Ranch, a pioneering facility dedicated to lifestyle changes that harness the transformative benefits of plant-based nutrition, exercise, and therapeutic fasting for over 65 years.

Dr. Esser was a co-founder of the NHA (called The American Natural Hygiene Society initially) in 1948 and was a prolific writer and speaker on the subject of Natural Hygiene.

Quote:
“Through hygienic living, you belong to the privileged few who, among millions of suffering people, are fortunate enough to partake in an inestimable source of good.”

–William Esser, From the July/Aug 1998 Edition of Health Science

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Dr. Gerald Benesh (1954-1955)

Natural Hygiene stands as a profound testament to intellectual freedom, liberating the human mind from the constraints of the past in a way no other movement has. Its influence holds the potential to surpass the combined legacies of all the great pioneers, fundamentally reshaping how we think, live, and relate to our health. Nowhere is the transformative power of Natural Hygiene more vividly embodied than in the life and work of Dr. Gerald Benesh.

Quote:
“Natural hygiene is sometimes mistakenly referred to as a dietary program. But it is so much more. Not only does adopting natural hygiene benefit physically, but it also improves mentally, morally, and spiritually, for as the physical being becomes refined, the subtle forces of mind and spirit are capable of functioning more efficiently.”

— Gerald Benesh – From the July/Aug 1998 Edition of Health Science

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Dr. Herbert M. Shelton (1955 -1956)

Dr. Herbert Shelton co-founded the NHA (called The American Natural Hygiene Society initially) in 1948 and is considered the father of the Natural Hygiene Movement.

Director of Dr. Shelton’s Health School, editor of Dr. Shelton’s Hygienic Review, author of over 50 books, and public speaker. He was a teacher and a trailblazer in the modern natural hygiene movement. While some labeled him “too radical,” many others hailed him as the visionary who rekindled interest in this transformative approach to health and wellness.

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Dr. Christopher Gian-Cursio (1956-1957)

Christopher Gian-Cursio was a doctor, nutritionist, author, editor, and researcher.  He advocated alternative medicine, naturopathy, and what he would call Natural Hygiene. He was one of America’s most outspoken commentators on alternative medicine. Dr. Christopher Gian-Cursio’s unwavering stand against organized medicine exemplifies his determination and courage. 

Dr. Gian-Cursio co-founded the NHA (called The American Natural Hygiene Society initially) in 1948.

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Dr. William Esser (1957-1959)

Dr. William L. Esser was an inspiring champion of optimal health and a groundbreaking visionary for wellness. His influential work as a writer, speaker, and clinician left an indelible mark through Esser’s Health Ranch, a pioneering facility dedicated to lifestyle changes that harness the transformative benefits of plant-based nutrition, exercise, and therapeutic fasting for over 65 years.

Dr. Esser was a co-founder of the NHA (called The American Natural Hygiene Society initially) in 1948 and was a prolific writer and speaker on the subject of Natural Hygiene.

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R.J. Cheatham (1959-1960)

R.J. Cheatham’s commitment to Natural Hygiene arose from a deeply personal quest to understand the root causes of disease and discover a path to genuine, lasting health. This journey began on July 30, 1948, shortly after he was discharged from the hospital following surgery for what was diagnosed as malignant melanoma. At the time, the medical prognosis was dire—physicians predicted he had no more than five years to live. This life-altering moment ignited a sense of urgency in Cheatham, compelling him to seek a more effective and holistic approach to healing.

Over the ensuing years, he explored a wide range of conventional and alternative treatments. Despite his exhaustive efforts, his condition failed to improve. In fact, further surgeries were recommended to remove more tissue for examination—measures that offered little hope and no promise of recovery.

Disillusioned by the limitations of conventional medicine and its inability to offer a true cure, Cheatham gradually lost faith in mainstream medical practitioners. Determined to find his own answers, he launched an independent and intensive study of health. He read extensively and attended hundreds of lectures, immersing himself in the teachings of leading thinkers and pioneers in natural health.

Through this journey, Cheatham arrived at a profound realization: disease can only be eliminated by addressing its underlying causes, and true health can only be achieved by fulfilling the natural requirements of well-being. This philosophy forms the foundation of Natural Hygiene—a system rooted in the natural laws of life and health. His journey is featured in Jack Dunn Trop’s documentary “The Greatest Adventure.”

In 1964, Cheatham purchased an eight-acre property in Bonita, Florida, which he transformed into a serene retreat and health spa called Shangri-La. Designed to promote peace of mind and healthy living, Shangri-La embodied his vision for a holistic lifestyle aligned with the principles of Natural Hygiene. He devoted himself passionately to sharing this approach with others.

Cheatham’s leadership in the movement was equally impactful. He served as president of the Detroit Chapter of the Society, took on the role of convention manager in 1959, and later chaired the Society’s Board of Directors. Though initially told he had only a few years to live, Cheatham defied the odds and lived 27 more years—a testament, in his view, to the principles he embraced.

He passed away on July 14, 1977, leaving behind a legacy of healing, empowerment, and unwavering dedication to natural health.

Cheatham, R. J. (1961, July). My Cancer Eliminated Through Natural Hygiene. 1961 ANHS Convention Program, pp 17-19.
https://www.healthscience.org/magazine/conference-program-chicago-1961/

• On April 14, 1948, Cheatham was diagnosed with malignant melanoma and underwent a major operation that left him with a large scar and a lengthy hospital recovery involving numerous medications and standard medical treatments. Despite following the prescribed path, his condition did not improve, and over the next two years, he explored nearly every form of conventional and alternative healing, none of which provided lasting relief or answers. Disillusioned with the medical profession, he began an independent study of health, attending lectures and reading extensively. Eventually, he encountered Natural Hygiene and, though skeptical, found its principles of natural living, nutrition, and self-care to be both logical and transformative. He embraced this lifestyle—focusing on rest, exercise, fresh air, sunshine, and a diet rich in raw fruits, vegetables, and nuts—and saw dramatic improvements in his health. He regained his strength, reversed previous health issues, fathered more children, and exceeded the grim life expectancy given after his cancer diagnosis. Deeply inspired, he became an advocate for Natural Hygiene, serving as president of the American Natural Hygiene Society, and now urges others to explore this “better way of life” for healing and vitality.

Quote:
“Knowing about natural hygiene is not enough. To get the benefits, we must live it. If we want to have good health, it is necessary to eliminate the causes of poor health and provide the causes of good health.”

— RJ Cheatham – From the July/Aug 1998 Edition of Health Science

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Joseph Brenner (1960-1961)

Joseph Brenner was a dedicated advocate for Natural Hygiene whose service and leadership spanned multiple roles. He served as president of the American Natural Hygiene Society from 1960 to 1961 and continued his leadership as a member of the Board of Directors from 1961 to 1965. Additionally, he was the founder and president of the Century Club, a position he held for his lifetime, demonstrating his enduring commitment to the movement.

Brenner also played a vital role at the local level. He served on the board of the New Jersey Chapter and chaired many of its activities, helping to strengthen the chapter’s outreach and impact. A passionate educator, he frequently delivered lectures at chapter events, sharing his knowledge and inspiring others to embrace the principles of Natural Hygiene.

Joe Brenner, who tragically passed away at the age of 82 in an automobile accident, remains a shining example of dedicated idealism and selfless service—especially in one’s later years. His unwavering commitment to the principles of Natural Hygiene serves as an inspiration to Hygienists of all ages.

For over two decades, and particularly during some of the Society’s most challenging times, Joe was a pillar of strength and support. His invaluable guidance, forward-thinking initiatives, steady leadership, and heartfelt encouragement played a critical role in sustaining and advancing the mission of our organization. His material contributions and moral resolve helped the Society navigate turbulent periods and emerge with renewed purpose and vitality as it entered the promising decade of the 1980s.

Joe Brenner’s legacy is one of quiet strength, enduring service, and unshakable belief in the transformative power of healthy living—a legacy we honor and continue to build upon.

Brenner, J. (1961, July). My Experiences Selling Natural Hygiene. 1961 ANHS Convention Program, pp. 26-27.
https://www.healthscience.org/magazine/conference-program-chicago-1961/

• Brenner shares personal experiences to illustrate that while enthusiasm for Natural Hygiene is natural and well-intentioned, it must be communicated effectively to have an impact. Many new adherents, in their excitement, tend to become overbearing, dogmatic, or condescending, which can alienate potential converts. Instead, a gentle, non-judgmental “soft-sell” approach—rooted in empathy, patience, and subtlety—proves far more successful. By creating the right psychological environment and responding to individual needs, the author has successfully inspired genuine interest and fostered lasting commitment to Natural Hygiene. Examples include helping an irritable customer simply by letting him rest, sparking curiosity at a banquet with his diet choices, and eventually earning the opportunity to teach Natural Hygiene through an adult education program. These stories underscore that understanding, tact, and leading by example are crucial to effectively spreading the principles of Natural Hygiene to a broader audience.

Quote:
“Through natural hygiene, you will learn the causes of sickness, disease, and deterioration, and what causes old age. He will learn the true secrets of maintaining vibrant health, vigor of mind, and the joy of a lofty spirit.”

Joseph Brenner, From the July/Aug 1998 Edition of Health Science

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Oscar Floyd (1961-1964)

Oscar Floyd was a pivotal figure in the Hygienic Movement, becoming involved in 1958 and leaving a lasting legacy. He dedicated himself to transforming the movement into a force for better health and social responsibility. His visionary concepts, including the development of Hygienic communities known as Healthville and the establishment of Natural Hygiene Press, showcased his business acumen and dedication. In 1961, he became president of the National Society, steering it towards success with reformative policies and enhanced organizational structure. Floyd’s exceptional leadership, communication skills, and mastery of parliamentary procedure set a new standard for the Society.

Quote:
“Natural hygienists know that to truly enjoy health, it must be enjoyed universally. It is our belief that healthy people can easily solve economic and political problems, but that sick people never will.”

— Oscar Floyd, From the July/Aug 1998 Edition of Health Science

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Jack Solomon (1964-1967)

Jack Solomon, an attorney, and his wife, Rose, were the dedicated owners and operators of Jack’s Health Food Center in Palm Beach, Florida—a hub for health-conscious individuals in the community. Beyond his business, Jack played a pivotal role in the American Natural Hygiene Society, serving as president from 1964 to 1967. Over the years, he also held multiple leadership positions, including vice president, treasurer, board member, and convention manager.

A passionate promoter of Natural Hygiene, Solomon was instrumental in launching and distributing the NHA Paperback Book Series in collaboration with Health Food Distributors, helping to make natural health information more accessible to the public. A life member of the organization, he remained deeply committed to its mission throughout his life.

In addition to his national leadership, Solomon was actively involved in the Miami Chapter of the Society, where he emerged as a vocal leader in the anti-fluoridation movement. His efforts reflected a lifelong dedication to informed health advocacy and public education.

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Stanley Prorok (1967-1969)

Stanley Prorok, a tooling engineer from Waukegan, Illinois, was a devoted advocate of Natural Hygiene and a tireless contributor to its growth and visibility. His leadership within the American Natural Hygiene Society was extensive. He served as President from 1967 to 1969, following terms as Executive Vice President and Treasurer from 1966 to 1967. His involvement began much earlier—he joined the Board of Directors in 1960 and was a proud member of the Century Club.

At the local level, Prorok was a cornerstone of the Chicago Chapter, serving as its President from 1959 to 1964, as well as holding roles as Treasurer and Program Chairman. His dedication to organizing educational events and fostering community engagement helped strengthen the chapter’s impact throughout the region.

Beyond his organizational contributions, Prorok was an outspoken advocate for medical freedom and a passionate proponent of natural living. He brought an engineer’s precision and a humanitarian’s spirit to the movement, blending technical expertise with a deep commitment to health and individual rights.

Quote:
“We teach people how to live naturally; how to get well if they are sick; and to do so by giving the body maximum opportunity to exercise its innate healing powers; and how to stay well.”

— Stanley Prorok – From the July/Aug 1998 Edition of Health Science

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Dr. Virginia Vetrano (1969-1973)

Dr. Vetrano was born in Houston, Texas, on  November 24, 1927. While she earned a Doctor of Chiropractic and a Ph.D., her focus was always on natural healing and holistic health. Throughout her career, she remained dedicated to advancing wellness for all her patients through natural methods.

Dr. Vetrano began her study of natural hygiene by thoroughly reading Dr. Herbert Shelton’s work. She acquired a profound understanding of the principles of natural hygiene well before enrolling in chiropractic school in San Antonio, Texas. Upon graduating in 1965, Dr. Vetrano assumed leadership of Dr. Shelton’s health school, which she managed throughout the final 17 years of his life. In addition to her administrative and clinical responsibilities, Dr. Vetrano made significant scholarly contributions to the Hygienic Review, serving as editor and writer from 1954 until the end of its publication in 1980.

Fluent in English, French, and Spanish, Dr. Vetrano traveled extensively to lecture and study around the world. Her passion for sharing health knowledge led her to speak in countries such as France, Canada, South Korea, Egypt, and various regions across Africa, where her lectures often drew audiences in the thousands. Read her interview in Health Science, February 1979.

Quote:
“The most effective means of spreading hygiene is that of living hygienically ourselves. There is nothing like a good example to teach others the value of a hygienic way of life.”

–Vivian Vetrano – From the July/Aug 1998 Edition of Health Science

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Attorney Irving Davidson (1973-1975)

Attorney Irving Davidson of Brooklyn, New York, was a founding member of the American Natural Hygiene Society as well as the New York Vegetarian Society. He was a lawyer, humorist, and teacher. He and his wife, Adele, were active members of the NHA for more than two decades. Davidson further showcased his leadership during his two-year tenure as NHA president from 1973 to 1975.

Davidson formed a valuable partnership with the renowned publicist Jack Dunn Trop. In 1946, Irving Davidson and Jack Dunn Trop founded the Graham Natural Hygiene Society in New York City, a local group dedicated to promoting holistic health principles. Together, they passionately worked to advance the vision of the National Health Association, making a lasting impact in the realm of public health advocacy.

Quote:

The natural hygienist not only struggles for his own life, but finds it impossible not to struggle as well for the lives of others. The life of every human being is a part of our own, for we are all involved in mankind.

— Irving Davidson, From the July/Aug 1998 Edition of Health Science

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Dr. Jack Goldstein (1975-1977)

Dr. Jack Goldstein was born in 1930 in Detroit, Michigan. He earned his Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree with honors from Wayne State University in 1952. Following his graduation, he served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War. Upon returning home, he established a private podiatry and foot surgery practice in 1954.

A respected figure in his field, Dr. Goldstein lectured extensively across the United States and was a frequent guest on both local and national radio and television programs.

In 1964, Dr. Goldstein’s life took a transformative turn. After being severely debilitated by ulcerative colitis—a condition that brought him to the brink of death—he embarked on a six-week fast at Pawling Health Manor in Hyde Park, NY, rooted in the principles of natural hygiene. His dramatic recovery sparked a new passion for natural health and healing, which he chronicled in his book Triumph Over Disease by Fasting and Natural Diet.

Following his recovery, Dr. Goldstein, his wife Corrine, and his family became a dedicated advocates for natural hygiene. He lectured widely, consulted individuals seeking alternative paths to wellness, and eventually became director of Point Retreat, a hygienic health center in Grosse Pointe, Michigan.

He served as Past President of the ANHS and also was a member of the ANHS Board of Directors. In addition, he chaired the 1974 Convention.

Quote:
“In the final analysis, natural hygiene depends upon you and the degree to which you can apply these principles and make them work for you. All the knowledge in the world is useless unless you put it into daily living practice.”
— Jack Goldstein – From the July/Aug 1998 Edition of Health Science

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Attorney Mark Huberman (1977-1981)

Attorney Mark Huberman is the President of the National Health Association and Editor of Health Science magazine.  He has adhered to a whole food, plant-based vegan diet since birth in 1951. He credits his excellent health to the pioneering vision of his parents, Max and Ruth Huberman, who operated a legendary health food store in Boardman, Ohio, for over 33 years, where they influenced countless individuals to change their diet and lifestyle and regain and preserve their health.  

For nearly all of Mark’s adult life, his greatest passion has been supporting the work of the National Health Association.  He became a member of its Board of Directors at 18 and was elected its youngest President in 1977.

Quote:
“As Natural Hygienists, we can best express our love to all humanity by continuing to support the Society’s efforts to educate the world on the science of human health, to help protect our endangered environment, and to enhance the quality of everyone’s lives. These are our goals.”

–Mark Huberman, From the July/Aug 1998 Edition of Health Science

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Jack Dunn Trop (1981-1982)

Trop was a co-founder of the NHA (called initially The American Natural Hygiene Society) in 1948.

Trop’s journey, marked by frustrating doctor visits and ongoing health struggles, became a testament to resilience and transformation. His life changed when he encountered Dr. H. William Baum, a naturopath and physiotherapist whose expertise guided him toward healing and a new understanding of health. Inspired by his own recovery, Trop immersed himself in the works of health pioneers and opened The Vitamaster, a health food store in New York City. There, he connected with like-minded individuals, including Symon Gould, who introduced him to the principles of Natural Hygiene, and Dr. Herbert Shelton. This relationship further deepened his knowledge of holistic health and allowed him to positively influence those around him, encouraging a healthier and more mindful approach to living.

Trop’s journey from a successful film producer to a health advocate serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of perseverance, self-discovery, and the pursuit of knowledge in overcoming life’s challenges.

Quote:
“The purpose of Society is to transform the world. We are a family, dedicated to learning how to live in accordance with nature’s primordial laws of life, and to pass the knowledge that we have acquired onto others.”

— Jack Dunn Trop, From the July/Aug 1998 Edition of Health Science

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Attorney Mark Huberman (1982-1985)

Attorney Mark Huberman is the President of the National Health Association and Editor of Health Science magazine.  He has adhered to a whole food, plant-based vegan diet since birth in 1951. He credits his excellent health to the pioneering vision of his parents, Max and Ruth Huberman, who operated a legendary health food store in Boardman, Ohio, for over 33 years, where they influenced countless individuals to change their diet and lifestyle and regain and preserve their health.  

For nearly all of Mark’s adult life, his greatest passion has been supporting the work of the National Health Association.  He became a member of its Board of Directors when he was 18 years old and was elected its youngest President in 1977.

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Hannah Allen (1985-1989)

Hannah Allen was the most prominent Natural Hygiene writer and speaker from New Port Richey, Florida. She left a teaching legacy that is equalled by only a very few. In addition to her many years of service on committees and the board of directors, Hannah was the president of the American Natural Hygiene Society from 1985 to 1989. The Society experienced tremendous growth and professional development under her leadership.

She was a gifted writer and author of several books, including Don’t Get Stuck! The Case Against Vaccinations and Injections, Homemakers’ Guide To Foods For Pleasure & Health and Handbook For Hygienic Living, Organic Gardening in Florida, Arthritis and the Road Back to Health, Self Healing – The Roles of Food and Digestion, Fundamentals of Natural Hygiene, Are You A Candidate For Cancer, Your First Fast – What to Expect and “Ask Hannah Allen” column in Health Science Magazine (1983-1989).

During Hannah’s two decades of service to the ANHS, we went through many extraordinary events, and she taught us all about character, leadership, and integrity. When Hannah talked, everyone listened because she possessed an enviable ability to find reason out of discord and harmony out of strife. She gave so much and asked so little.

Quote:
The key to health is knowledgeable self-care. Self-care begins with caring enough about yourself to want to change a behavior you know is harming you. With a few exceptions, no adult can avoid responsibility for the conditions of his or her own health.
— Hannah Allen, From the July/Aug 1998 Edition of Health Science

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Attorney Mark Huberman (1989-2000)

Attorney Mark Huberman is the President of the National Health Association and Editor of Health Science magazine.  He has adhered to a whole food, plant-based vegan diet since birth in 1951. He credits his excellent health to the pioneering vision of his parents, Max and Ruth Huberman, who operated a legendary health food store in Boardman, Ohio, for over 33 years, where they influenced countless individuals to change their diet and lifestyle and regain and preserve their health.  

For nearly all of Mark’s adult life, his greatest passion has been supporting the work of the National Health Association.  He became a member of its Board of Directors at 18 and was elected its youngest President in 1977.

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Mark Epstein (2000-2003)

Mark Epstein currently serves as our treasurer and is a seasoned computer scientist with over 25 years of experience in investment management and technology, holding a B.S. in Mathematics and an M.S. in Computer Science from The University of Chicago. He has created tools for futures and options trading and served as the Director of Research and Technology for an options market-making group in major financial cities. In 1996, he founded Flow Trading Group, focusing on technology and trading consulting. Beyond his professional pursuits, Mark developed CafГ© Voltaire, a natural foods restaurant and art gallery in Chicago, and has been actively involved in health and environmental organizations. Now living in Pinehurst, North Carolina, with his wife and two children, he embraces an aspiring farming lifestyle while promoting a plant-based diet and healthy living inspired by his family’s long-standing connection to the National Health Association.

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Attorney Mark Huberman (2003-2006)

Attorney Mark Huberman is the President of the National Health Association and Editor of Health Science magazine.  He has adhered to a whole food, plant-based vegan diet since birth in 1951. He credits his excellent health to the pioneering vision of his parents, Max and Ruth Huberman, who operated a legendary health food store in Boardman, Ohio, for over 33 years, where they influenced countless individuals to change their diet and lifestyle and regain and preserve their health.  

For nearly all of Mark’s adult life, his greatest passion has been supporting the work of the National Health Association.  He became a member of its Board of Directors at 18 and was elected its youngest President in 1977.

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Jerry Deutsch (2006-2012)

Jerry Deutsch became a member of the American Natural Hygiene Society (ANHS) in 1985 and attended his first ANHS New York Regional Seminar in September 1988 at the Holiday Inn in Rockville Centre, Long Island. He was accompanied by his wife and their two young children, just two years and one month old at the time. Deeply inspired by the experience, Jerry soon joined the ANHS Board of Directors and played a vital role in organizing the Society’s annual conferences at Hofstra University.

An alumnus of Cornell University, Jerry reconnected with Dr. T. Colin Campbell and successfully persuaded the renowned professor to participate in the ANHS conference—an important moment that helped bridge the natural hygiene movement with the broader whole-food, plant-based community.

In 2006, Jerry became President of the ANHS and guided the organization through its transformation into the National Health Association (NHA). Among his notable contributions, he was instrumental in republishing Herbert Shelton’s influential work, Fasting Can Save Your Life, and restoring the NHA’s annual conference at the Regency Hotel in Florida after a period of inactivity. He also launched the Nutritional Research Project, which raised critical funds for the organization during a time of financial challenge.

Eventually, Jerry stepped down as NHA President to serve as Executive Director of the Nutritional Research Foundation, which he co-founded with Dr. Joel Fuhrman. Beyond his work in the health movement, Jerry is a certified Ritual Elder in the Mankind Project and serves on the Board of Directors of the Institutes for the Achievement of Human Potential in Philadelphia, PA. Through his Fanny and Elias Deutsch Foundation for Child Development, he organized annual charity golf tournaments that funded visits by leading hygienic physicians—such as Dr. Keiki Sidwa, Dr. Joel Fuhrman, and Dr. Frank Sabatino—to lecture on the critical role of nutrition in child development.

Jerry is the proud father of three daughters and grandfather to four grandchildren, who draw him back from his home and orchard in Hawaii to Philadelphia for several months each year. Whether in Hawaii, Pennsylvania, or somewhere in between, Jerry continues to champion the principles of health through helpful living—often with a golf club or skis in hand.

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Attorney Mark Huberman (2012-Present)

Attorney Mark Huberman is the President of the National Health Association and Editor of Health Science magazine.  He has adhered to a whole-food, plant-based vegan diet since birth in 1951. He credits his excellent health to the pioneering vision of his parents, Max and Ruth Huberman, who operated a legendary health food store in Boardman, Ohio, for over 33 years, where they influenced countless individuals to change their diet and lifestyle and regain and preserve their health.  

For nearly all of Mark’s adult life, his greatest passion has been supporting the work of the National Health Association.  He became a member of its Board of Directors at 18 and was elected its youngest President in 1977.