Dr. Mayo has been with ATSU’s Board of Trustees since 2016 and her connection to Kirksville, Missouri, extends further. A first-generation college student, Dr. Mayo attended Truman State University in Kirksville, Missouri, and earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and a master’s in education. It was during this time she met former ATSU board member Bertha Thomas, who recommended Dr. Mayo’s appointment.
Dr. Mayo joins Claflin University after serving as associate provost for student success and dean of undergraduate studies at California State University, Monterey Bay. She previously served as associate provost for academic programs and undergraduate research at North Carolina Central University.
A.T. Still University’s (ATSU) Missouri campus Student Government Association (SGA) presented its 2025 awards Thursday, April 24.
ATSU-MOSDOH Outstanding Teacher Award, class of 2027, Jon Rischer, DDS
ATSU-MOSDOH Outstanding Teacher Award, class of 2028, Hashim Elmshiti, BDS, MSc, PhD
ATSU-KCOM Max Gutensohn, DO, Outstanding Teacher Award, class of 2027, Peter Kondrashov, PhD
ATSU-KCOM Max Gutensohn, DO, Outstanding Teacher Award, class of 2028, Sumitra Miriyala, PhD
ATSU-KCOM Student Researcher of the Year, Hailey Derifield, OMS II
ATSU-KCOM/COSGP Student Researcher of the Year, Jena Jacobs, OMS IV
SGA Leadership Award, Ben Tinker, OMS II; Smriti Kumar, OMS II; Angelina Hein, OMS II
Students also presented special recognition to Lori Haxton, MA, vice chancellor for student affairs, who is retiring this month after more than three decades with the University. Students gathered and shared recorded messages from alumni, expressing gratitude to Haxton, and even a Cameo message from former John Kuhn, a former member of Haxton’s beloved Green Bay Packers.
“From the moment I walked onto campus, I knew ATSU was the place for me,” Johanson, OMS I, said. “All the students and faculty that I interacted with showed me that they truly loved and cared for everyone. I knew the curriculum would help me to become the best physician I could be, because of the small group based learning and discussion. ATSU’s emphasis on whole person centered healthcare and focus on community health resonated with the type of physician that I strive to be when I graduate.”
Johanson is from Chanhassen, Minnesota, and was a double major in math and biology at College of Saint Benedict. She is determined to become a provider with patients who are comfortable sharing and feel welcomed and accepted.
“ATSU provides its students with many different programs, such as various volunteer opportunities with the community to help with our clinical and communication skills. I know I am receiving a well-rounded education and will be able to provide my patients with not only the best care possible, but also a welcoming and safe environment for them to share their stories and concerns,” she said.
Johanson serves as treasurer for the Emergency Medicine Interest Group and is a member of the Ultrasound Interest Group.
“I am a part of the Emergency Medicine Interest Group because I am interested in becoming an EM physician. I wanted to help provide my fellow classmates with the resources and opportunities that can help us all be better physicians, and EM physicians in particular. We have hosted a few speakers, as well as volunteered and partnered with the Ultrasound Interest Group to host a workshop on utilizing ultrasound in cardiac exams,” she said. “I joined the Ultrasound Interest Group as a way to gain more practice in this useful skill, as well as to gain a better understanding of how to use the ultrasound to provide the best care possible to all of my patients. Both clubs provide me the opportunity to learn more about fields of medicine that I am interested in, as well as the ability to better myself as a student and physician.”
She also serves as a student ambassador.
“During my interview, I received a tour from a current first-year student and she was very helpful in providing a student’s view on school. I knew that if I came to ATSU, I wanted to be an ambassador, so that I could provide that to interviewees. I think it really showed off the school in a positive light, because it was nice to hear about her experiences at ATSU,” she said.
Johanson enjoys being active and said she was worried she’d need to give some of that up when starting medical school. Happily, though, she and her friends have found a great balance.
“We have started taking a nightly walk after our studying to enjoy the weather before it gets too hot! My friends and I have also been able to build in various volunteering opportunities, such as helping teach fourth graders about nutrition and health, and helping out with the dental school Give Kids a Smile event,” she said. “While medical school is incredibly challenging, I have found a way to balance my time, and still find ways to continue being active.
“We also started a run club in the fall, which has been super fun to be a part of. Almost every Tuesday afternoon we get together and run about 40 minutes. It is super fun to see my friends and classmates outside of school, and a great way to get active and enjoy the weather. This has become something that I look forward to every Tuesday.”
Johanson said she enjoys how ATSU-SOMA’s curriculum is based on a self-study method, where students work through cases with their community-based interprofessional (CBI) groups.
“This allows me to spend time on the topics that I really need to work on, while also collaborating with other students who are not in my normal study group. It allows me to see a bigger picture, and gain a better understanding of the material,” she said.
There are also ample opportunities provided by the University outside of normal coursework, like the annual flag football tournament during Founder’s Day.
“This was a great way to spend time with some of my classmates that I don’t normally see and to get to know more people,” Johanson said. “It was fun to see our class come together and support each other.
“I have also been able to form many good connections with various faculty and staff, which has made school much easier. It is nice to know that there is always someone supporting you, and someone to go to when you are stuck on material or need help with something.”
After more than 36 years of recruiting and counseling A.T. Still University (ATSU) students and leading the Office of Student Affairs for the past 12.5 years, Lori Haxton, MA, vice chancellor for student affairs, will retire effective April 30, 2025.
Haxton began her career at ATSU in December 1988 as director of admissions and enrollment services. Her caring personality, combined with her expertise in residential life, admissions, alumni services, and student affairs, led her to be named vice president for student affairs in July 2012 and vice chancellor for student affairs in July 2024.
As vice chancellor, Haxton is responsible for overseeing key areas across all university locations, including Admissions, Enrollment Services (Financial Aid, Registrar’s Office), Learning Resources & Accommodation Services, Behavioral Health & Wellness, Student Wellness, Thompson Campus Center, On-campus Housing, and Student Life. Under her leadership, the University has navigated numerous challenges, from adapting to shifting regulatory landscapes to managing evolving state and federal education mandates, executive orders, and regulations.
Haxton’s commitment and service to the University have been long recognized. She has received Kirksville Osteopathic Alumni Association (KOAA) Honorary Membership (1999), Missouri Campus Distinguished Service Award (2001), KOAA Distinguished Service Award (2006), Missouri Association of Osteopathic Physicians & Surgeons Service Award (2012), KOAA Living Tribute Award (2015), and George Windsor Award (2017 and 2022). Since 2014, Haxton has represented ATSU at AACOM’s Council of Student Affairs, where she served as chair in 2021-2022. Prior to 2014, she served on AACOM’s Council of Admissions (1988-2013).
During her tenure, Haxton witnessed ATSU’s transformation from a single-discipline institution to a multi-campus health professions university. Throughout this journey, she has had a profound influence on the lives and careers of thousands of students and applicants.
“While we will greatly miss Lori’s leadership and thoughtful contributions to ATSU, please join me in wishing her all the best as she embarks on the next chapter of her life. May her retirement bring her fulfillment, happiness, and well-deserved time to enjoy the things she loves,” said ATSU Chancellor Craig Phelps, DO, ’84.
Deanna Hunsaker, DHEd, MBA, currently assistant vice chancellor for enrollment services, will serve as interim vice chancellor for student affairs.
ATSU-ASDOH student Loryn Young, D2, is leaving nothing on the table. If there’s a chance for her to increase her knowledge, her experience, her connections with others, she’s doing everything possible to make it happen.
“From the moment I walked through the doors of ASDOH, I made it my priority to embrace every opportunity that would help me grow as a leader and advocate,” she said. “With only four years in this program, I am committed to making the most of my time by staying as actively involved as possible.”
Young and classmates pose at their white coat ceremony.
Young, from New Hill, North Carolina, majored in human biology and minored in global health at University of California, San Diego, before deciding to pursue dentistry.
“I chose ATSU-ASDOH because of its strong commitment to whole person healthcare and public health. As someone passionate about serving underserved populations, I knew I needed a program that integrated public health into the curriculum and offered a dual-degree option, allowing me to earn both my DMD and MPH,” she said. “ASDOH’s service-oriented mission aligned perfectly with my personal and professional goals, providing the education and opportunities necessary to become a clinician who prioritizes community impact.
“Ultimately, ASDOH was the perfect fit because it embodies the values that matter most to me: service, collaboration, clinical excellence, and public health advocacy. Every day, I am surrounded by peers and mentors who inspire and challenge me, reinforcing that I made the right choice in joining this incredible community.”
To say Young is an engaged student is an understatement. She is national chair for the Council on Membership, District 10 Community Outreach chair, and local chapter president with the American Student Dental Association; ASDOH student representative to the Council on Membership and New Dentists with Arizona Dental Association; president of Pediatric Dental Study Club; fundraising chair of Business in Dentistry and Students United for America’s Toothfairy; and Aftercare Committee member with Give Kids a Smile.
Young and classmates in Washington, lobbying with the American Dental Association
“My leadership roles have taken me across the country, allowing me to represent ASDOH at the local, district, and national levels,” she said. “Through conferences, I’ve not only expanded my professional network but also built lifelong friendships with dental students from across the country. Additionally, I have had the privilege of connecting with doctors and specialists who treat me as a colleague, providing invaluable mentorship and guidance.
“I have remained deeply engaged in the organizations I am part of and will continue to invest in them until the day I graduate. I take immense pride in being an ASDOH student and am grateful for the leadership opportunities that allow me to amplify the voices of my peers and contribute to an unforgettable dental school experience for our community.”
Additionally, Young serves as an ATSU-ASDOH student ambassador.
“My ATSU pride runs deep, making it easy for me to talk about the many aspects of my program that I love,” she said. “As an ambassador, I enjoy reminding pre-dental students that dental school doesn’t have to put life on hold. You can excel academically, stay involved, travel, spend time with friends, and still enjoy the journey. Everyone deserves to feel supported and fulfilled in school, and I can’t thank ASDOH enough for fostering a culture where students can truly thrive – not just in their education, but in all areas of life.”
Young said there’s a healthy balance that comes with being an ATSU student, as the University prioritizes student well-being and provides time to enjoy diversions and explore what Arizona has to offer. She enjoys pilates, reading a good book, laying by the pool, traveling, running, exploring coffee shops, and being with friends.
“I also love our small community on campus and the fact that faculty and students feel like family. I know that my faculty members want to see me succeed and that my peers will help me achieve my goals. I am thankful to be at a program where I feel supported and also feel like I can thrive both in and out of school,” she said.
Young would like to specialize in pediatric dentistry, providing children a comfortable, safe, and positive experience at the dentist. Beyond clinical care, she is committed to staying involved in organized dentistry, advocating for her profession, peers, and patients.
“My passion for serving underserved communities drives my interest in public health, where I hope to make a meaningful impact on access to pediatric dental care. Additionally, I am eager to pursue interprofessional collaboration, potentially working alongside other specialties in a hospital-based setting to treat more complex pediatric cases, care for children facing medical challenges, and provide specialized support for patients with special needs,” Young said. “As I progress in my career, I also want to give back to the next generation of dental students, mentoring and supporting them just as others have done for me.”
“I have always loved the Phoenix area and wanted to live here,” he said. “I read about the pro bono clinic to give back to the community and practice learned skills, and was excited about the opportunity.”
His experience on campus has met his expectations.
“There are many events on campus to show their love for the students that attend, all professors are friendly with open door policies, and we have opportunities to practice what is being learned in the classroom,” he said.
Cordier is from Columbus, Indiana, and has a bachelor’s degree in exercise physiology and master’s degree in exercise science.
At ATSU-ASHS, Cordier serves as a student ambassador.
“I chose to become a student ambassador because I have really enjoyed being a student at ATSU and wanted to share my experiences with other individuals,” he said. “I offer a unique perspective because I am a husband and father of two boys, and wanted to be able to encourage others that may be in similar situations to pursue their educational goals.”
Ultimately, Cordier hopes to open his own clinic, and says a course about administration is helping him gain valuable insights.
“It has been great to learn and understand what that may look like in my future,” Cordier said.
Avina, who is president of ATSU-KCOM’s Student Government Association and part of the Council of Osteopathic Student Government Presidents (COSGP), conducted research with Suhail Akhtar, PhD, MS, BSc, assistant professor, biochemistry, at ATSU-KCOM, to examine the effects vitamin D3 has on lipopolysaccharide-induced necroptosis in human intestinal epithelial cells. Avina presented the research as part of COSGP’s research symposium at the AACOM event.
“I feel honored and proud to represent ATSU-KCOM at these conferences and will cherish the opportunities this school has given me,” Avina said.
A.T. Still University (ATSU) Advancement hosted the inaugural Thank-A-Thon on Thursday, April 17, 2025, on the University’s Kirksville, Missouri campus, where ATSU students, faculty, and staff composed handwritten notes and made phone calls to show gratitude to our generous donors.
Nearly 30 volunteers came together to write nearly 200 notes and make more than 100 phone calls to donors who supported the Museum of Osteopathic Medicine, ATSU Student Emergency Funds, ATSU and ATSU-Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine Greatest Need Funds, and more.
ADLS provides a comprehensive understanding of the roles played by first responders, government agencies, and hospital staff, helping students recognize where they fit into disaster management as future providers and public health officials. The large-scale simulation offers a firsthand look at the chaos these events create and equips students with skills to navigate and manage such crises effectively.
Participants included the Adair County Ambulance District (lifesaving interventions such as needle decompression/narcan and apparatus and equipment demonstrations), ATSU Campus Security (basic safety and situational awareness), Kirksville Fire Department (man-down rescue carries and apparatus and equipment demonstrations), Kirksville Police Department (first-responder down gear removal), MU-4 Air Evac Team (intubation with PPE and other airways/rescue breaths and apparatus and equipment demonstrations), Northeast Regional Medicine Center (Stop the Bleed training), and Truman Public Health. Additionally, 36 volunteers served as trauma patient actors.
“The 2025 ADLS course was a great success,” said Peyton Grant, OMS II, ATSU Emergency Medicine Club president. “Students were able to learn advanced disaster response strategies and put practical skills into action through a mass casualty simulation. We are so grateful for all of the volunteer instructors, community agencies, community members that volunteered as patient actors, Truman State University’s Public Health Department, and our very own ATSU faculty members, Lisa Archer, BSN, RN, and Christy Fenton, who made this event possible.”
Students from A.T. Still University’s Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health visited Macon Elementary in Macon, Missouri, on Friday, April 11, 2025, for Give Kids a Smile.
The annual event brought dental education, games, dental screenings, and dental work provided by Northeast Missouri Health Council.
