A.T. Still University’s Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health (ATSU-MOSDOH) provided everything Lauren Bitar, D2, was looking for in a dental program. When the Sterling Heights, Michigan, native was deciding which dental school was right for her, ATSU-MOSDOH’s mission and curriculum aligned with her goals for the kind of dentist she strives to become. 

“I chose ATSU-MOSDOH because of its strong emphasis on community-based dental education, whole person healthcare, and commitment to serving underserved populations,” she said. “I was drawn to the unique opportunity to develop clinical skills in a supportive and mission-driven environment, while also gaining experience in diverse settings. ATSU’s philosophy aligns with my values of service and leadership, and I knew it would help shape me into the kind of healthcare provider I aspire to be.”

Bitar graduated from Wayne State University with a degree in mathematics, concentration in general topics, and minor in chemistry. At ATSU-MOSDOH, she joined the Student Government Association and serves as the class of 2028 president. 

“Being in this leadership position has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my dental school experience. I truly enjoy advocating for my classmates, organizing class events, and acting as a liaison between students and faculty. It’s a role that comes with responsibility, but I thrive on the opportunity to support my peers and represent their voices. I also love attending leadership conferences and networking events, where I get to learn from others and grow professionally,” she said.

At ATSU-MOSDOH, Bitar has found a strong sense of community and support. 

“ATSU also does a great job organizing fun and stress-relieving activities throughout the year. One of my favorite events was when the school brought in baby farm animals and provided lunch for students. Moments like these go a long way in helping us recharge after long weeks of lectures, simulation labs, and exams. It’s little things like this that make student life at ATSU special and remind us that we’re supported both academically and emotionally.”

Outside of class, Bitar describes herself as “a proud shopaholic.” She loves clothes and accessories that express her personality. 

“I also enjoy staying active and being social. Whether it’s going to the gym, attending events, or spending time with friends, I’m always looking for ways to balance the demands of dental school with things that bring me joy and keep me grounded,” she said.

Bitar is working toward becoming a well-rounded dentist who not only provides excellent clinical care, but also gives back to the community through advocacy and service. 

“ATSU is preparing me for success through a rigorous academic curriculum and hands-on clinical training. We’re also being well-prepared for our national boards and ADEX (American Board of Dental Examiners) licensure exams for the near future,” she said. “The education and support I’m receiving at ATSU are equipping me with the skills and confidence I need to excel in practice and lead with purpose.”

For A.T. Still University-Arizona School of Health Sciences (ATSU-ASHS) Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies program student Katie Chun, PA, ’26, ATSU’s Mesa, Arizona, campus environment offers a lot to make student life enjoyable. 

“My favorite part about student life is the vibrancy of the community you get at ATSU due to the sheer amount of people on campus at once, whether from running into familiar faces at the YMCA, or studying at the library with peers and seeing what the other students in other programs are studying,” Chun said. “I also have felt very supported by the resources ATSU has to offer, such as the Learning Specialists, Peer-Assisted Learning tutors, and student counseling, all of which feel very accessible and are staffed by amazing people.”

Chun is from San Jose, California, and has a degree from University of California, Davis, where she majored in pharmaceutical chemistry and minored in psychology. When she decided to pursue becoming a PA, she looked for several different traits in a program. She found them at ATSU.

“ATSU’s strong commitment to serving diverse and underserved populations deeply resonated with me, as I am passionate about working in under-resourced communities as a future PA,” she said. “The curriculum emphasizes social determinants of health, patient advocacy, and cost-effective care throughout the curriculum, and I was especially drawn to the year-long community health center rotations. I was confident that these opportunities would prepare me to better understand and advocate for the vulnerable communities I aim to serve. 

“The school’s whole-person healthcare model – addressing body, mind, and spirit – also aligned with my values, as my background in crisis counseling has shown me the critical role emotional and spiritual well-being plays in health, and has fueled my desire to advocate for my patients’ mental well-being as a future provider.”

Chun has gotten involved with several organizations at ATSU. She’s a member of the Kettel Society, serving as representative to the American Academy of Physician Associates (AAPA) Assembly of Representatives and Arizona State Association of Physician Assistants, the PA student representative with the ATSU-ASHS Strategic Plan Student Ad Hoc Committee, and a student ambassador. 

“I represent my PA school class at PA advocacy organizations at the state and national level at meetings and conferences, such as the annual AAPA conference, and facilitate communication between these organizations and my cohort. Through this role, I’ve had the privilege of learning more about policy and advocacy, and meeting so many passionate PA students and practicing PAs,” she said. 

As a student ambassador, Chun has a chance to serve in a role where she found helpful people during her time as a prospective student.

“I welcomed the chance to join outreach events and connect with prospective students. I had previous experience with mentorship and thoroughly enjoyed the experience, and wanted to have the opportunity to continue to do it here,” she said. “I also had very positive experiences with PA program student ambassadors during interview day, private tours, and orientation. Their personal, helpful guidance made my move from California to Arizona much less daunting. 

“I wanted to be able to provide that same feeling to other students in the future, and make their transition into school life more comfortable. My favorite part about this role is being able to connect with prospective students and incoming students through informational sessions, interview day lunches, student tours, and emails.”

In her free time, Chun enjoys indoor cycling, going on walks and hikes, and karaoke. 

“I also have a passion for playing in music groups, and have played in concert bands, marching band, and Japanese-American taiko groups,” she said.

As for her future, Chun says she’s currently most interested in working in psychiatry and primary care. ATSU-ASHS’ PA program’s Didactic Clinical Experiences afforded her the opportunity to shadow practicing PAs in these and other specialties, which helped both solidify and expand her professional interests. 

“ATSU also prepares me well to become the competent, confident PA I aspire to be through hands-on experiences, such as mock patient encounters through our standardized patient experiences, clinical skills days, and communication drills, where we practice navigating difficult patient encounters and situations in front of our peers,” she said. 

“Working closely with other healthcare providers is essential to providing high quality care as a PA, and ATSU’s interprofessional experiences, such as shadowing and collaborative activities, have allowed me to better understand what other specialties offer patients and gain new perspectives, both of which will also make me a stronger provider.”

Peter Van Beurden, PA, ’26, wants to be a provider who serves the people in his home community. That’s one reason why he chose A.T. Still University-College for Healthy Communities’ (ATSU-CHC) Central Coast Physician Assistant program (CCPA) to pursue his Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies degree. 

“I chose ATSU-CHC because of my deep commitment to serving the Central Coast of California – my home – as a primary care provider,” Van Beurden, of San Luis Obsipo, California, said. “When I learned that ATSU was launching a new PA program in this part of California, it truly felt like a dream come true. This region has long faced a shortage of healthcare programs and providers, so the opportunity to be part of a solution in my own community was a no-brainer.”

But proximity was only part of the equation.

“What drew me in even further was CCPA’s mission to train humble, diverse physician assistants equipped to serve medically underserved communities,” Van Beurden said. “I’m proud to be part of a program that aligns so closely with my calling, and I can’t wait to join the growing number of ATSU-CHC graduates already making a tangible difference in our local clinics and beyond.”

Van Beurden, who has bachelor’s and master’s degrees in kinesiology, believes he made the right decision.

“My favorite part of being an ATSU student is getting to learn medicine on the Central Coast alongside my amazing classmates. We’ve built strong bonds through study sessions, workout classes (shoutout to Run Club, CrossFit, and cycling), and are making the most of the outdoors, whether it’s beach volleyball or hiking local trails,” he said. “It’s inspiring to share this journey with people who are not only passionate about becoming healthcare providers, but also know how to have fun and support each other along the way.”

Van Beurden joined Student Government Association at ATSU-CHC and serves as the CCPA’s class president. He calls the role humbling and is honored to serve his classmates, foster relationships with faculty, and contribute to a healthy culture within the program. 

“Leadership comes with its challenges, but it also offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful, lasting impact, especially when you’re working in service of a mission you deeply believe in,” he said. “I’m grateful for the chance to be a part of the lives of so many amazing future PAs.”

He also serves as a student ambassador, sharing the program’s mission with others. That’s something he said comes naturally and began before he joined the program himself. 

“I’ve been genuinely excited about what this program stands for and the impact it’s making locally. What I love most about this role is seeing the spark of possibility in someone’s eyes, the moment they realize that becoming a PA in this community could be a possibility in their future. Being part of that moment is my favorite part of the role,” he said.

Van Beurden’s goal is to make a lasting impact in serving patients on the Central Coast. He said he’s passionate about being part of the healing and transformational journeys of individuals in his community, especially those who most need compassionate, accessible care. 

“I want to be a provider who will stick by their sides throughout their life,” he said. “I also hope to take on leadership and teaching roles as a PA-C, working to expand access to care and enhance the quality of healthcare delivery across the region. ATSU is preparing me for this path by surrounding me with dedicated professors and mentors, people who are already living out these goals and who inspire me to grow into the kind of provider I hope to become.”

A.T. Still University of Health Sciences (ATSU) is pleased to announce the appointment of Gaylah Sublette, MBA, as president of its Missouri campus, effective July 1, 2025.

Sublette, who has served as interim president since July 1, 2024, was selected following a nationwide search that attracted a highly competitive pool of candidates.

“Gaylah Sublette has dedicated her career to advancing A.T. Still University’s mission of whole person healthcare and community service,” said ATSU Chancellor Craig M. Phelps, DO, ’84. “Her extensive leadership experience, institutional knowledge, and commitment to collaboration will serve the Missouri campus and surrounding communities well.”

During the selection process, students, faculty, and staff participated in open forums with the finalists. Their thoughtful input affirmed Sublette’s longstanding dedication to the University and her ability to lead with integrity, professionalism, and vision.

Sublette brings 38 years of experience to her new role, having served in various senior positions at ATSU since joining the University in 1987. As vice chancellor of research & grants, she led the development of ATSU’s centralized Sponsored Programs office and helped secure more than $100 million in external funding. As interim president of the Missouri campus, she has provided executive leadership for ATSU’s Missouri-based schools, including the Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health and St. Louis Dental Center, and College of Graduate Health Studies.

“I am honored and excited to serve as president of ATSU’s Missouri campus,” Sublette said. “It is a privilege to work alongside our outstanding faculty, staff, students, and community partners to continue advancing education, research, and service in healthcare.”

A graduate of Truman State University and William Woods University, Sublette has been instrumental in advancing research, compliance, and strategic planning initiatives across the University. Her leadership has also extended beyond ATSU, including service on the Board of Directors for Mark Twain Behavioral Health, as a member of the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine (AACOM) Assembly of Presidents, and as national vice chair of the AACOM Council of Research.

Wishing you and your family a safe and happy Independence Day!

In observance of the Fourth of July holiday, ATSU offices and patient care centers in Kirksville, Missouri; Mesa, Arizona; Santa Maria, California; and St. Louis, Missouri, will be closed on Friday, July 4, 2025. Facility access will be limited.

The Kirksville Thompson Campus Center will be closed on Friday, July 4, and Saturday, July 5.

To view library hours at each location, please click here.

Yours in service,

Craig M. Phelps, DO, ’84
Chancellor

A.T. Still University-Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine alumna Priscilla Tu, DO, FAAFP, FAOASM, FAAMA, FACOFP, dipABLM, ’05, of Roanoke, Virginia, was named Family Physician of the Year by the Virginia Academy of Family Physicians in July 2024 and selected for the Outstanding Female Leader Award by the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians (ACOFP) in 2025.

Dr. Tu serves as an associate professor for Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, and associate program director and director of osteopathic education for Virginia Tech Carilion Family Medicine Residency Program. She also serves as associate professor and regional director of student medical education for Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine.

She is the immediate past president of the American Osteopathic Academy of Sports Medicine, chair of the Procedural Committee for ACOFP, and a team physician for USA Volleyball.

Dear ATSU students, faculty, and staff,

It is my pleasure to announce the appointment of Gaylah Sublette, MBA, as president of A.T. Still University’s Missouri campus, effective July 1, 2025. Ms. Sublette has served as interim president since July 1, 2024, and was selected following a national search that drew a highly competitive pool of candidates.

Throughout the search process, ATSU received valuable feedback from students, faculty, staff, and administrators who served on the search team and participated in open forums. Your thoughtful input helped inform the final decision and reaffirmed Ms. Sublette’s strengths in leadership, collaboration, and commitment to the University’s mission.

Ms. Sublette brings 38 years of leadership experience and deep institutional knowledge to this role. Since joining ATSU in 1987, she has played a key part in the University’s transformation from a single-school institution to a thriving university with seven schools and more than 40 health professions programs offered across three campuses and online. Her collaborative efforts have significantly advanced ATSU’s presence in research, grants, and scholarly activity, securing over $100 million in external funding and building a centralized sponsored programs team capable of managing up to 100 active awards annually.

In her dual role as interim president and vice chancellor of research & grants, Ms. Sublette has provided executive leadership for the Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, the Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health and St. Louis Dental Center, and the College of Graduate Health Studies, while also overseeing University-wide research and grant initiatives.

A graduate of Truman State University and William Woods University, Ms. Sublette’s leadership extends beyond ATSU. She serves as chair of the Board of Directors for Mark Twain Behavioral Health, is a member of the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine’s (AACOM) Assembly of Presidents, and previously served as national vice chair of AACOM’s Council of Research. Among her many honors are ATSU’s Distinguished Service Award and the Thousand Hills Rotary Club’s Professional of the Year for Health Care.

Please join me in congratulating Ms. Sublette on this well-deserved appointment. Her vision, servant leadership, integrity, and dedication to ATSU’s mission will serve her well as she leads the Missouri campus into its next chapter.

Yours in service,

Craig M. Phelps, DO, ’84
Chancellor

The Arizona Osteopathic Medical Association (AOMA) has named A.T. Still University-School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona (ATSU-SOMA) faculty member and alumna Breanne Jaqua, DO, MPH, ’17, as the recipient of this year’s Outstanding Mentor Award, an honor presented to physicians who make a significant difference in the lives of students and colleagues through mentorship.

Dr. Jaqua, a faculty mentor and advisor to the Student Government Association at ATSU-SOMA, was nominated by numerous colleagues and medical students for her tireless dedication and leadership. Since assuming her advisory role in 2020, Dr. Jaqua has played a key part in revitalizing student life and activities following the challenges of the pandemic. She is credited with fostering a culture of leadership, collaboration, and advocacy among SOMA’s student body.

Her responsibilities include advising SGA councils, committees, and the executive board, as well as overseeing the organization’s annual budget and offering strategic guidance on financial matters. Dr. Jaqua also extends her mentorship beyond campus, guiding student leaders at national gatherings such as the American Osteopathic Association House of Delegates, and encouraging their involvement in the broader osteopathic community.

Among her many initiatives, Dr. Jaqua launched the inaugural ATSU-SOMA Student Research Symposium, creating new opportunities for academic engagement. She is also known for her support of students pursuing careers in emergency medicine, offering both professional guidance and personal encouragement.

Earlier this year, Dr. Jaqua was recognized as ATSU’s 2024 Faculty Advisor of the Year. Her unwavering commitment, generosity, and positive influence have left a lasting impact on students, earning her widespread respect and the AOMA’s Outstanding Mentor Award for 2024.

A.T. Still University-College for Healthy Communities (ATSU-CHC) Central Coast Physician Assistant (CCPA) program students, faculty, and staff recently participated in a community outreach project to assemble and donate 100 summer activity kits to children on the California Central Coast. 

The kits were delivered to CALM for distribution to their clients in Santa Maria, California. CALM is a community-based mental health agency with a mission to prevent childhood trauma, heal children and families, and build resilient communities throughout Santa Barbara County. 

Kits were carefully assembled with age-appropriate items for CALM clients ranging from infants to teens, and each one includes a handwritten card of encouragement from the ATSU-CHC student who assembled it.

The kits are a direct way for the students at ATSU to spread joy, promote connection, and encourage creativity and play for CALM clients during the less structured summer months. CALM clinicians will distribute the kits directly to their clients in Santa Maria to enjoy throughout the season.

“These kits are more than just fun summer activities. They’re a reminder to our clients that they are seen, supported, and cared for,” said Shelby McLean, development manager at CALM. “We are so grateful to the students and faculty at A.T. Still University for their compassion, creativity, and commitment to our community’s wellbeing.”

To learn more about CALM, visit calm4kids.org.

A.T. Still University-College of Graduate Health Studies (ATSU-CGHS) Master of Public Health program alumna Jacqueline Miller, DDS, MS, MPH, ’22, a retired orthodontist and former Dental Director for the State of Missouri, has been named the 2024 Missouri Dental Association (MDA) Dentist of the Year Award winner. She was honored at the Association’s annual awards banquet hosted during its House of Delegates meeting at Margaritaville Lake Resort, June 21, 2025.

The Dentist of the Year Award recognizes a member dentist who has demonstrated outstanding service to the Association, to the profession of dentistry, and/or to the community in the past year.

Dr. Miller served as State Dental Director in the Office of Dental Health (ODH) for the state of Missouri from August 1, 2022, to July 31, 2024. She accomplished a great deal on behalf of the oral health of the public as well as the profession during her time in the role. She actively engaged with Missouri dentists, and with organized dentistry, and was part of a key group to create the curriculum and training processes for the Oral Preventive Assistant pilot program, a type of expanded function dental auxiliary to help provide increased access to dental care.

During her time at ODH, she was instrumental in pursuing other efforts related to workforce development. This includes partnering with high schools in Pike/Lincoln and St. Charles counties to offer dental assistant training, as well as developing a project to use teledentistry as a method for dentists to supervise hygienists and assistants in nursing homes and other under-served, high-risk populations including veterans. Her leadership and collaboration with MO HealthNet (Missouri Medicaid) was also significant to expand coverage of dental services.

As evidence of her dedication to her community, her profession and the oral health of the public, Dr. Miller went back to school to complete a Master of Public Health in 2022 from A.T. Still University’s College of Graduate Health Studies. As Missouri State Dental Director, Dr. Miller secured a very competitive Centers for Disease Control grant, as well as numerous other grants and initiatives to promote dental health across the state of Missouri.

Currently, she is an Orthodontic Curriculum Consultant for Kansas City University, Joplin, Mo., responsible for developing and teaching orthodontic curriculum to undergraduate dental students. She provided orthodontic care in the communities of Washington, Union and Sullivan for 30 years.

Outside of past and current work, Dr. Miller regularly gives back to her community and beyond. She is a founding member of the Washington Overseas Medical and Dental Mission which has been taking place since 1992. She has been Vice President for 32 years, packing and coordinating 32 dental mission trips, and participating in country on 26 dental and construction mission trips as of 2024. She authored numerous grants funded through community organizations to fund this work.

She is active in various community efforts including Washington Rotary Club, Dental Screenings and Presentations at area schools, volunteering at the Pregnancy Assistance Center and more.

In addition to the MDA and ADA, Dr. Miller is a member of the Greater St. Louis Dental Society and American Association of Orthodontists. She is a Fellow of the International College of Dentists and American College of Dentists, as well as a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontists.

In addition to completing her MPH degree in 2022, in 1991 she graduated from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry and in 1993, completed her Master of Science and Certificate in Orthodontics from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry. Dr. Miller and her husband, Timothy Huber, reside in Union, Mo., and have five children.