As she considered college, Riley Ferrigan was certain of only one thing about her future: Her guiding force was “to help people.” After graduating from Gorham High School in 2019, she took her first steps toward that goal by enrolling in the pre-med biology track at the University of Maine at Farmington (UMF). Early in her studies, Ferrigan discovered UMF’s accelerated “3+3” program, a fast-track pathway that partners with in-state and out-of-state universities. And, with that, she set her sights on becoming a chiropractor.
A self-professed homebody, Ferrigan knew her “next chapter” would push her beyond her comfort zone. After completing her studies at UMF, she moved halfway across the country to attend Logan University in Missouri. Her hard work paid off when she graduated in December 2025 with a Doctor of Chiropractic degree—becoming the first student to complete this 3+3 degree program.
Interestingly, the foundation for her future practice as “Dr. Riley” was laid during Ferrigan’s first year of college—on the streets of Gorham. Her stepfather, Dave, happened to run into Kerwin Chiropractic’s Deb Kerwin out in the community. When the conversation turned to Ferrigan’s pursuit of becoming a chiropractor, the ball was unknowingly set in motion. When Ferrigan entered her final year at Logan University, she contacted the Kerwins about an internship. In May 2025, she returned home, continued her studies online, and gained hands-on experience under the Kerwins’ guidance until her graduation that December. Ferrigan and the Kerwins both describe the next steps as “falling easily into place.” Around November, the Kerwins and Ferrigan had conversations about possible transitions, including a collaborative partnership or a takeover of the practice. According to Ferrigan, the decision to purchase the practice and patient base made sense. And, in February 2026, the Kerwins closed their chapter and Dr. Riley opened hers—Next Chapter Chiropractic and Nutrition.
Because she had connected with many patients during her internship, the transition was seamless. Although businesses often expect to lose about 30% of their base when ownership changes, Ferrigan says that has not been the case. “I feel I built confidence and trust with the patients through the internship,” she said of the smooth transition, adding, “The Kerwins’ compassion and care for the people of Gorham and surrounding communities drew so many. They often mentioned that the goodness you put into others will return to you tenfold. It’s truly been a wonderful experience stepping into this practice—and I feel so fortunate that so many have trusted me to continue to provide that same level of care.”
Ferrigan is managing every aspect of her new business, ensuring it begins with the level of care and vision she intended.
When she is not helping and empowering patients, Ferrigan enjoys reading and writing. She even hinted that she may write a book down the road.
Next Chapter Chiropractic and Nutrition is accepting new patients and is open Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Friday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.