For Parmeet Dhillon, PA, ’26, studying in A.T. Still University’s College for Healthy Communities (ATSU-CHC) Central Coast Physician Assistant program is a joy. Difficult? Certainly. But Dhillon also sees this as an opportunity to pursue subjects she finds fascinating.

“What I enjoy most about being a student is learning about things that genuinely matter to me. Topics like disease, illness, and health aren’t just academic, they’re deeply personal and relevant to my own life and the lives of my loved ones,” she said. “It’s incredibly meaningful to finally understand the causes behind illnesses I or my family members have experienced. Knowing that this knowledge can one day help me protect and care for our communities is what motivates me every day.” 

Dhillon is from San Jose, California, and has a bachelor of science in biological sciences with an emphasis in physiology from California State University, East Bay, where she majored in biology and majored in chemistry. 

Dhillon was compelled to apply to ATSU-CHC because of its mission.

“I chose this school because of its strong commitment to serving the underserved, something that deeply resonates with me. In Santa Maria, we care for a large population of agricultural workers, and this community holds a special place in my heart,” she said. “My entire bloodline has been rooted in farmwork, and now I feel called to give back by caring for the very people who have worked so hard to support others. 

“This program’s holistic view of the human body sets it apart, reflecting a deeper understanding of health that honors the whole person, not just their symptoms. That approach aligns perfectly with the way I want to practice medicine – thoughtfully, respectfully, and with purpose.”

Dhillon serves as a student ambassador, providing an opportunity to help others navigate to graduate school during an exciting and transformative time in their lives. 

“Whether it’s connecting with applicants through email or Zoom, giving tours, or volunteering at school events, each interaction is a chance to offer support and encouragement. It’s incredibly rewarding to be a part of someone’s journey and to give back to a process that once shaped my own path,” she said. “I joined the student ambassador program because I know firsthand how overwhelming the college application process can be, especially as a first-generation student. Navigating everything from prerequisites to personal statements felt like stepping into unknown territory. Thankfully, I had supportive PA mentors and friends who guided me along the way, and many programs had ambassadors who answered my questions and helped me feel seen. 

“Now that I’m in a position to do the same, I want to pay it forward by helping prospective students feel supported, informed, and confident, just like others once did for me.”

When she isn’t studying, Dhillon expresses herself through dancing and singing. 

“Back home, I sing at a local recording studio that helps bring my musical visions to life, and it’s one of my favorite creative outlets,” she said. “I also feel most grounded when I’m connecting with nature. Whether it’s going on peaceful walks, pressing flowers, or simply sitting outside. I especially love feeding birds and taking care of stray cats, many of whom end up adopting me in return. These small moments bring me joy and balance amidst the chaos of school.”

It’s all leading to one direction, where Dhillon will one day become a PA. Along the journey, she’s trying to find where she will best fit.

“I’m grateful that this school gives me the opportunity to explore a wide range of medical fields. Through hands-on learning and exposure to different areas of care, I’m slowly finding the path that aligns with my strengths and passions. One thing I know for sure is that I will dedicate my career to serving those in need. That commitment is at the core of everything I hope to do,” she said.

A.T. Still University-Arizona School of Health Sciences (ATSU-ASHS) Master of Science in Occupational Therapy program student David Zavala, MSOT, ’26, has a pretty straightforward goal.

“The dream is to make a difference,” he said. “Whatever that looks like, that’s the goal.”

Zavala believes ATSU-ASHS is the place to provide him the tools and support needed to realize that dream, in whatever form it ultimately takes. 

“I thought it was amazing that ATSU has a pro bono clinic to help the underserved population,” he said. “Everything that the program stood for and represented simply fit my beliefs. I felt this program would allow me to grow and become the best OT I could be.

“My passion for OT stems from my own experience with taking care of my grandfather. I want people to live better quality lives and I hope to be the person that can bring light to anyone’s life, no matter their circumstances. I would say ATSU has prepared me for this by instilling in me the idea of whole person healthcare.”

Zavala, of Bakersfield, California, graduated from California State University, Bakersfield, with a bachelor of science degree in kinesiology. At ATSU, he serves as Hand Therapy Special Interest Section Lead with the Student Occupational Therapy Association, a student mentor, and a student ambassador. 

“I joined these leadership roles to step out of my comfort zone,” he said. “I essentially forced myself into these positions because it was not something I would normally do. I felt these organizations would help me grow as an individual and make connections with my peers that will play a role in how I treat future patients. I have enjoyed being in these organizations as they have taught me how to not only lead, but to work with others on a team. All things that are important for my future as an OT.

“I became a student ambassador to help make the transition into grad school as easy as possible for incoming students. I wanted to represent my program authentically and give honest insight into what to expect from the program. As orientation week gets closer, I know it can be scary and exciting at the same time. I wanted to make it less scary for new students because this is a great experience regardless of how hard it may be. I feel that starting off the right way can make the biggest difference.”

Zavala loves music, listing his hobbies as “music, music, and more music.” He collects vinyl and has a goal to visit all of the record stores in the Mesa, Arizona area. 

“That’s been a big part of my culture and is essentially my therapy,” he said.

When he isn’t enjoying tunes, Zavala is thoroughly enjoying his experience as an ATSU student.

“Being an ATSU student has been great all around. I enjoy how much my professors care about my education and my well-being. I love that the size of the program allows for more personal connections and I feel that I am more than just a student here,” he said.

A.T. Still University’s College for Healthy Communities (ATSU-CHC) honored the people and organizations who, through time, talent, and financial support, have contributed to establishing and strengthening ATSU-CHC during the Founders and Friends Reception at Presqu’ile Winery in Santa Maria, California.

“Our community partners are part of the living legacy that fuels our mission, our momentum, and our future,” said Eric Sauers, PhD, dean, ATSU-CHC. “Because of you, ATSU continues to thrive as the founding institution of osteopathic medicine and leader in whole person healthcare education.”

Those recognized included:

·  CoastHills Credit Union received the Honored Patron Lifetime Giving Award and Distinguished Patron Lifetime Giving Award. CoastHills created and funded the CoastHills Credit Union Health Professions Education Endowed Scholarship, which provides financial assistance to a student entering their final year before graduation.

·  Community Health Centers of the Central Coast received the Diplomate Lifetime Giving Award. Community Health Centers of the Central Coast funded ATSU-CHC’s Central Coast Physician Assistant (CCPA) program stethoscope event, a portion of equipment and lab fees for the classes of 2025, 2026, and 2027, and donates to ATSU-CHC’s program exploration and planning initiatives.

·  Driscoll’s received the Honored Patron Lifetime Giving Award. Driscoll’s is a donor to ATSU-CHC’s Dreamline Pathways events initiative.

·  Santa Barbara Foundation received the Distinguished Patron Lifetime Giving Award. The Foundation has provided general support for ATSU-CHC.

·  Dignity/Marian received the Honored Patron Lifetime Giving Award. Dignity/Marian has been the exclusive sponsor of the CCPA White Coat Ceremony since 2022, and also provides general support for ATSU-CHC and its program exploration and planning initiatives.

·  James S. Bower Foundation received the Distinguished Patron Lifetime Giving Award. The Foundation is a donor to program exploration and planning initiatives.

Community members met with ATSU-CHC students, faculty, and staff during the event.

“The unwavering support of our community partners is truly inspiring,” said O.T. Wendel, PhD, president, ATSU Arizona & California campuses. “Their dedication allows us to continue our vital work in educating the next generation of healthcare leaders and serving underserved communities.”

Mary Nguyen, D2, was a public health major at University of Washington, planning for a future in dental education. Some of the most important things she learned about healthcare were the social determinants of health, health disparities, and how they affect different communities’ access to healthcare. 

“Graduating, I vowed to myself to serve underserved populations and to advocate for better access to dental care, and it is what I’ve found at A.T. Still University,” Nguyen said. “Seeing ATSU-Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health’s (ATSU-MOSDOH) mission to serve the underserved immediately caught my attention, and I knew that I would be given valuable education here in order to reach my professional goals. I want to give back to the communities who need dental care access the most, for I believe that once the most marginalized communities’ needs are met is when we’ve finally achieved health equity.”

Nguyen is from Seattle and serves as MOSDOH class president with ATSU’s Student Government Association (SGA), secretary of the American Student Dental Association’s (ASDA) Kirksville chapter, District 9’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion chair with the American Student Dental Association, and student ambassador. 

“Ever since I was young, I’ve had a natural drive for leadership roles and it was a priority of mine when I reached dental school,” Nguyen said. “I decided to apply for SGA President-MOSDOH because I wanted to serve as a communicator between MOSDOH and the overall ATSU SGA executive team. I want to grow in my professional and leadership skills, and I believed I would achieve that as SGA president. 

“As far as the American Student Dental Association, it’s admirable how we have a community that cares about promoting student wellness and a passion for serving underserved communities. Not many of my classmates know that MOSDOH ASDA is an auto-enroll school, while many schools require students to pay for memberships. With that, many students don’t realize and take advantage of benefits that will help them in the long run. Within ASDA, I hope to expand our student engagement by allowing more students to attend conferences, attend more educational lunch-and-learns, and be encouraged to take on leadership roles within this organization.”

As a student ambassador, Nguyen wants to encourage students to attend ATSU-MOSDOH because it prioritizes serving the underserved.

“I know many students have doubts about attending a school in a small town, but I hope by being personable with them it can help them see why attending this school would help their career journey,” she said.

“Originating from a big city, I’ve grown to enjoy the peace and quiet in Kirksville. I found myself usually being on the go in Seattle and feeling the need to go out, but I’ve been enjoying the solitude. It holds me accountable to study consistently. Also, my program’s class is relatively small compared to other dental schools, so I’ve made a very close community with my classmates. Especially during fall semester, I have enjoyed hosting some of my classmates over, serving seasonal mocktails, and playing some games to get to know each other better.”

Nguyen also makes consistent use of ATSU’s Thompson Campus Center, where she lifts weights about three times each week. She also enjoys walking the beautiful trails near campus when the weather is good, and when she stays in she’s an avid fiction reader. 

On campus, Nguyen is taking every opportunity to prepare herself for her future.

“One experience I’ve cherished during my undergrad was volunteering for Vietnam Health Clinic, a mobile health clinic that serves free healthcare in Vietnam for two weeks. One of my goals is to help out with the Vietnam Health Clinic, but this time as a health professional. In Vietnam, we serve the underserved in very rural communities, and with ATSU’s mission of training professionals to serve the underserved, it will help me achieve my goal,” she said.

A.T. Still University-School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona alumna Tesalia Jordens, DO, ’15, is reshaping women’s midlife care through her recently launched telehealth practice, 1988. Following the completion of her family medicine residency, Dr. Jordens began her career in urgent care, which she still practices today. Through urgent care clinics, and later primary care, she began to notice a group of women whose symptoms challenged what she had been taught to diagnose or treat. 

“I could address anxiety, depression, insomnia, or nutrition, but it wasn’t quite right – many of these women were already doing ‘all the right things’ and still struggling,” Dr. Jordens says. 

As she began studying midlife medicine more deeply, the root cause became clear: menopause. Today, about 1.2 billion women are experiencing menopause, making it one of the most prevalent health issues worldwide. The treatment it necessitates is not only about relieving symptoms or improving quality of life, but also protecting health span. Evidence demonstrates proper care may reduce risk of cancer, heart disease, and osteoporosis. Unfortunately, decades of dismissal have led many medical professionals to treat patient symptoms, including those described by Dr. Jordens, as separate issues rather than one condition, preventing the women affected from receiving adequate care. With this in mind, Dr. Jordens began to lay the groundwork for 1988, determined to meet these persistently underserved women where they are, on their own terms.

Dr. Jordens chose the name 1988 in reference to the Women’s Business Ownership Act (WBOA), a landmark piece of legislation signed that year. WBOA enabled women – for the first time – to own small businesses without a male, relative cosigner. As a woman physician starting her own practice, Dr. Jordens hopes to honor this spirit of change by providing her patients with the tools to navigate menopause with confidence. 

1988 offers virtual consultations and follow-ups concerning menopause care, metabolic health, and chronic disease prevention. The clinic typically serves women from ages 35-60 but extends its services to those affected by early or surgical menopause. Some patients seek guidance on perimenopause or menopause symptoms, while others hope to prevent the development of conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity. What makes 1988 exceptional, however, is not the variety of its services but rather its accessibility. 

“Many of my patients are balancing careers, family responsibilities, and caregiving,” Dr. Jordens says. “Making time for themselves can feel impossible.” 

Here, telehealth is able to bridge the gap between midlife women and providers equipped to meet their needs. This is especially true in areas with large rural populations, including Wisconsin, where Dr. Jordens is based. Women in these areas often find it difficult to find a local provider comfortable with treating menopause. 1988 enables these women to access treatment at their convenience, from anywhere in the country. In doing so, they are able to reconnect not only with their health but also with themselves.

Dr. Jordens considers it essential to healthcare for patients and doctors to maintain a level of autonomy. Early in her career, she recalls suffering from burnout caused by systemic constraints, including insurance demands, administrators, patient survey scores, and productivity metrics. It became clear she would need to transition from traditional practice to provide the individualized care and longer, more thoughtful visits she desired. 1988 has finally enabled her to serve her patients in a way she finds personally satisfying. It is her hope she might inspire colleagues experiencing similar challenges to pursue innovative models of care aligning with their values and patient needs.

At the core of 1988 is Dr. Jordens’ mission to guide women through midlife so they are healthier, stronger, and more confident. Her efforts place her at the forefront of an ongoing shift in healthcare, which amplifies women’s voices, prioritizes their progress, and centers their power. By expanding the boundaries of midlife and menopausal health, Dr. Jordens provides women with the tools to overcome long-standing obstacles, just as was done by American legislators nearly four decades ago.

A.T. Still University’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (ATSU-KCOM) is a welcoming place. That’s something Jeffrey Thomas Rudman, OMS II, felt when he first stepped foot on campus, and helped him make the decision to attend medical school in northeast Missouri. 

“I chose ATSU because of how welcomed and wanted I felt during my interview,” he said. “Speaking with the faculty and students, I could tell they were genuinely happy to be here and proud of their school. Additionally, during my gap year, I had the opportunity to work with several ATSU graduates. Their kindness, professionalism, and excellence in patient care left a lasting impression on me and confirmed that this was the type of physician I aspired to become.”

Rudman, from Ames, Iowa, is a graduate of the University of Iowa, where he majored in human physiology and minored in chemistry and psychology. He’s keeping busy in Kirksville, serving as class of 2028 president with the Student Government Association, chair of otolaryngology in the Medical Subspecialty Interest Group, and member of Gamma Beta Phi Honors Society, Sigma Sigma Phi Honors Society, the Anesthesia Club, and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Club.

“I became a student ambassador because I want to be the same welcoming presence for others that I experienced during my visits to ATSU. I’m proud to be part of this school, and I’m excited for the opportunity to share my enthusiasm and help prospective students feel the same sense of belonging that drew me here,” he said. 

In his free time, Rudman enjoys basketball, fishing, Legos, weight lifting, and cooking. On campus, he’s working toward a future to provide excellent care to his patients.

“My goal is to become the best physician I can be, and ATSU is helping me achieve that through its rigorous academics and the example set by its faculty. I believe the most effective way to teach is by modeling excellence, and that is exactly what the professors at ATSU do every day,” he said.

Rudman is also quick to note that those feelings he had during the interview, they don’t go away. That community feel continues through the daily grind of medical school.

“What I love most about my class, and ATSU in general, is how it truly feels like a tight-knit family. No matter what’s going on, I know my classmates will be there to support each other,” he said. “I’ve seen familiar faces cheering at road races, volunteering side-by-side at service events, and just showing up when it matters. That kind of support has made a big difference in my experience, and it’s something I’m really grateful for.”

Joshua Avina, OMS II, knew exactly what kind of school he was getting into when he chose to pursue his doctor of osteopathic medicine degree at A.T. Still University’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (ATSU-KCOM).

Avina had already been in Kirksville, Missouri, for two years, having completed ATSU-KCOM’s Master of Science in Biomedical Sciences program in 2024. 

“I officially chose ATSU after completing my master’s program,” Avina said. “The faculty here are some of the strongest advocates for their students. Bill Sexton, PhD, professor, physiology, along with my mentor Suhail Akhtar, PhD, MS, BSc, associate professor, biochemistry, have played a huge role in helping me excel in research and truly understand the scientific process at a level that makes me competitive for any medical school. 

“After two years of spending countless hours seeking guidance from professors and dedicating myself to research, I realized this is where I wanted to continue my education. ATSU has given me opportunity after opportunity to grow both academically and professionally, and I will always be grateful for that.”

Avina is a recipient of the Robert A. Winn Clinical Investigator Pathway Program (Winn CIPP) scholarship, which gave him the opportunity to take part in a summer research experience. 

“I worked at the Massey Cancer Center in Richmond, Virginia, analyzing retrospective data from patients to look into the prevalence of acute myeloid leukemia and how social determinants of health can impact access to adequate care,” Avina said. “It’s been a truly rewarding experience not only academically, but also personally. Especially by meeting cancer patients and survivors. Their perspectives on treatment and experience are invaluable.”

Avina is from Branson, Missouri, and has an undergraduate degree in cell and molecular biology and psychology from Missouri State University. 

He’s been a highly engaged student at ATSU-KCOM, serving as KCOM’s Student Government Association (SGA) president, Wellness and Research committees member with the Council of Osteopathic Student Government Presidents (COSGP), and a Mental Health Ambassador and student ambassador. 

“Being involved in SGA since my time as a biomedical sciences student has given me valuable experience in team communication and executing plans. It’s been a joy to work on events like the Gift of Body Ceremony as the former SGA president of the biomedical sciences program, and to represent our school at national conferences in my current role as SGA president of KCOM. Each experience has been incredibly rewarding,” he said. “As president, I’ve also had the opportunity to participate in COSGP through the Wellness and Research committees. This role has allowed me to help select the COSGP Student Researcher of the Year and contribute to developing wellness resources that will be shared with our student body.”

Avina also cherishes his role as a Mental Health Ambassador, having trained to support someone in crisis. 

“Mental health is deeply important, and I want to be someone my peers can rely on if they ever need help,” he said.

As a student ambassador, Avina recalls his own experiences of being welcomed by student ambassadors when he first became a biomedical sciences student. 

“Interviewing for a master’s program or medical school can be intimidating, and their support made a big difference for me. I want to be that same reassuring presence for others. Someone who helps them feel at ease and shows them that this truly is a great school to be a part of,” he said. 

“What I enjoy most about ATSU is the opportunity to meet so many kind and supportive people. Going through challenging classes together has really brought us closer, and it shows in how we lift each other up when someone is struggling or in need. Outside of academics, we find plenty of ways to have fun, such as playing intramural sports or taking a break to catch a movie at the theater in Kirksville.”

In his free time, Avina enjoys playing chess, saying he may not be the best player, but he enjoys learning the intricacies of the game and continuously challenging himself to improve.

It seems an appropriate hobby to match the determination for excellence Avinia has in his life and educational pursuits. 

“What I hope to achieve professionally is the ability to provide the highest level of care to my future patients through empathy and clinical excellence,” he said. “After completing our preceptorship, I truly feel that ATSU does a great job preparing us to confidently engage in clinical settings. Performing a physical exam on a real patient for the first time was a surreal experience that brought everything we’ve learned in the classroom to life.”

Spencer Toomer, OTD, ’27, has a professional goal to become an occupational therapist who helps individuals fully engage in activities that are meaningful to them. When deciding where to pursue his Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree, he found A.T. Still University’s Arizona School of Health Sciences (ATSU-ASHS) would provide what he needed to achieve his dreams.

“I chose ATSU because of its strong commitment to whole-person healthcare and community-centered practice,” Toomer said. “I was drawn to the collaborative learning environment and the opportunity to serve in various capacities. I felt that ATSU would support me in becoming a well-rounded practitioner who can truly make a difference in the lives of others.

“I hope to take on leadership roles within the field and hope to open my own practice someday. ATSU continues to play a crucial role in preparing me for this career by helping me to build the knowledge, skills, and professional values to help make a positive impact in the field of occupational therapy.”

Toomer is from Bakersfield, California, and has a degree in exercise science with an emphasis in occupational therapy and minor in psychology. At ATSU-ASHS he serves as president of the Student Occupational Therapy Association (SOTA) and student ambassador.

“I joined SOTA because I wanted to be actively involved and contribute to the growth and support of my fellow classmates. I’ve been able to build strong relationships with peers and contribute to the field of occupational therapy. Leading SOTA has been a rewarding experience and I am grateful to be part of this organization,” he said.

“I became a student ambassador because I am passionate about sharing my experience at A.T. Still University. I want to help inspire future students who are considering this path. Serving in this role has been rewarding and I love having the opportunity to give back to the University while helping others.”

Toomer enjoys playing and watching soccer when not busy with his studies, saying participating in soccer has helped keep him healthy and happy.

“I also love to serve others when I can through acts of service. Most importantly, I love spending time with my wife, who supports me at every moment,” he said. 

On campus, Toomer is thriving in the supportive environment ATSU’s community provides.

“One of the things that I enjoy about being an ATSU student is that everyone, from faculty to classmates, is genuinely invested in helping each other succeed in all aspects. Everyone really does care and helps in any way that they can. Student Life offers many ways to get involved and stay connected beyond the classroom. I always enjoy the activities that Student Life puts on, offering a break from academics, which is beneficial at times,” he said.

Second-year A.T. Still University-Arizona School of Health Sciences (ATSU-ASHS) Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (SLP) student Jessica Scheetz found the perfect fit for her to continue her health sciences education in Mesa, Arizona.

“I resonated with ATSU’s mission statement and was impressed by what the program offered,” Scheetz said. “The staff at my interview was also kind and welcoming.”

Scheetz has a bachelor of science in speech and hearing science from Arizona State University. Originally from Minooka, Illinois, she’s become part of a community on ATSU’s Arizona campus. 

“I enjoy the endless support from faculty and all of the friends I have made within my cohort, as well as all of the memories we have made,” she said. 

Scheetz is a member of the National Student Speech Language Hearing Association and also serves as an ATSU-ASHS student ambassador.

“I want to be able to help incoming and first-year students with any questions they may have and allow them to feel comfortable with their journey,” she said.

In her free time, Scheetz enjoys traveling, hiking, crafting, and playing video games. She obtained her SLPA license during undergrad and worked as an SLPA for six months between her graduation and start at ATSU.

“I hope to become a speech-language pathologist,” she said. “ATSU is preparing me by providing me with adequate training and classes, which have given me the knowledge and experience I need to become an SLP in the future.”

Greetings,

As healthcare educators and support staff, it is important to remember the words we use—whether in person or on social media—can have a lasting impact. Our ATSU community is built on respect, cultural proficiency, empathy, and the exchange of diverse perspectives.

We each share a responsibility to communicate in a civil and thoughtful manner, in alignment with University policies, including the Code of Ethical Standards. Even when views differ, we can choose to engage one another with kindness and professionalism.

The strength of our community lies in our ability to listen, learn, and grow together. By approaching conversations in good faith and honoring one another’s dignity, we ensure ATSU remains a safe and supportive environment for all.

Thank you for your continued commitment to upholding these values.

Yours in service,

Craig M. Phelps, DO, ’84
Chancellor