Champions of change and care
The Distinguished Service Alumni Award recognizes graduates of A.T. Still University’s College of Graduate Health Studies (ATSU-CGHS) who have achieved recognition and distinction in their field at the local, national, or international level. This award is presented to alumni who actively advance the University’s mission by supporting its programs, thereby ensuring the University’s influence on our community and future generations of students. Each recipient has left a lasting mark on society through exceptional professional, voluntary, or philanthropic achievements.
Distinguished Service Alumni awardees
Recognized for their remarkable contributions to their fields and communities, these Distinguished Service Alumni awardees exemplify ATSU-CGHS’ commitment to excellence through exceptional leadership, service, and dedication. Discover their stories and see how they continue to inspire the next generation of healthcare leaders.
Romana Muller, EdD, RDH, MSDH
Romana Muller, EdD, RDH, MSDH, received her EdD degree from ATSU-CGHS in 2022. She embodies A.T. Still University’s mission through her dedication to advancing compassionate, culturally competent care for underserved communities. As an active educator, mentor, and researcher, she consistently gives back to the profession and the University by shaping the future of dentistry and championing equity and inclusion. Her professional work ensures that the next generation of practitioners are equipped to address the diverse needs of their communities, directly reflecting the core values of the College of Graduate Health Studies.
Her commitment to service is best illustrated by her leadership in programs like “Give Kids A Smile,” where she organized multilingual dental student volunteers to assist refugee and immigrant families. By ensuring these populations could access dental care in their own language, Dr. Muller not only removed critical barriers and built trust but also provided students with invaluable, hands-on experience in service-oriented care. These efforts demonstrate a profound dedication to improving health outcomes and fostering a spirit of volunteerism within the University community.
Stephanie McGrew, DHSc, MPH, MHA
Stephanie McGrew, DHSc, MPH, MHA, is a triple graduate of the College of Graduate Health Studies, earning her MHA in 2015, her MPH in 2024, and her DHSc in 2025. Dr. McGrew has made contributions to ATSU that deeply resonate with its mission, particularly in advancing healthcare education excellence and fostering diversity and inclusion. She has excelled academically, championed diversity initiatives, and spearheaded programs such as “Dreamline Pathways” to expand educational access for underserved communities. Her leadership extends to partnerships with organizations such as Truman State University and to active participation in national committees, underscoring her commitment to marginalized communities.
Her extensive philanthropic endeavors, research, and recognition awards further underscore her dedication to ATSU’s mission of community service and education. Dr. McGrew’s impact reflects ATSU’s values, serving as an inspiring role model for present and future students.
