In a historic milestone for the California Naturopathic Association (CNA), Dr. Mark Marat Hay, PhD, has been unanimously elected President, becoming the first naturopath of Armenian descent to lead the organization in its history.
Dr. Hay has been an active member of the CNA since 2019. In 2022, he joined the Board of Directors, and in 2023, he was elected Vice President under the leadership of then-President Dr. Michael Salas. His unanimous election to a four-year presidential term was supported by the entire board, which includes Dr. Michael Salas, Dr. Sharyn Wynters, Dr. Deenie Robins, Jose Rodriguez, Dr. Julianne Miller, and Dr. Ellen Tart Jensen.
As the Founder and CEO of The Guardian of Health clinic in Los Angeles and an Arts & Culture Commissioner for the City of Glendale, Dr. Hay brings both medical expertise and community leadership to his role. He holds a PhD in Nutrition and Nutraceuticals, a Doctorate in Naturopathy, a PhD in Arts, and a Doctoral Degree in Musical Composition. He is board certified by the California Naturopathic Certification Board, the American Naturopathic Medical Certification Board, and the National Board of Naturopathic Examiners.
Dr. Hay is an Academician of the Russian Academy of Natural Sciences (RANS), the highest scientific rank in the institution. He is also the first naturopath invited to lecture at the prestigious Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Beverly Hills. His contributions to medicine, science, and public health have earned him recognition from the U.S. Congress, the U.S. Department of Justice, the California State Senate and Assembly, the cities of Los Angeles and Glendale, and the Crescenta Valley.
In recognition of his achievements, Dr. Hay has been awarded the Dr. Elie Metchnikoff Medal for his contributions to immunology and microbiome research and the Dr. Ivan Pavlov Medal for advancements in experimental neurology and psychology, both from RANS. These medals had never before been awarded to a naturopath. He has also received the Higher Achievement Award from the American Naturopathic Medical Association, the Distinguished Service Award from the Republic of Honduras, Armenia’s Patriot Soldier and Land Guard of Armenia medals, and the President Woodrow Wilson Platinum Medal from W.A.C.S.J.B.
The California Naturopathic Association will hold its Annual Convention and Symposium from December 5–7, 2025, in Los Angeles, concluding with a Grand Gala and Award Ceremony. This event will gather prominent healthcare leaders, public officials, and distinguished guests from across the nation to celebrate the achievements of naturopathy and honor the outstanding contributions of Dr. Mark Marat Hay.
