2022 marked not only the 130th anniversary of ATSU, but it also marked many other milestone achievements. A.T. Still Memorial Library celebrated its 100th anniversary. The Museum of Osteopathic Medicine was awarded accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums. The Higher Learning Commission approved the University’s request for a third campus and new college in Santa Maria, California. Academic programs continue to earn accreditation, including ATSU-ASHS’ new Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology program.
This is an exciting time for ATSU, but it is important to remember the hard work, research, and planning that goes into making each of these moments happen. For more than 130 years, ATSU has been innovating and pushing boundaries to improve healthcare education and community health. Today, our curricula and technology are more advanced than ever.
On the following pages, we celebrate ATSU’s anniversary through Founder’s Day activities and highlighting our seven schools, particularly some of the most innovative aspects of our academic programs. Because of the hard work and dedication of deans, faculty, and staff, our students will be well prepared to serve and lead their chosen professions.
In addition, we thank ATSU’s many donors and friends who continue to provide support for our amazing students and programs. We also thank our board members, including Gary M. Wiltz, MD, and Paulina Vázquez Morris, JD, MBA, MHSA, for their guidance and contributions in advancing the University’s mission. It is an honor to be part of an institution wholly committed to student success and community wellness.
Yours in service,
Craig M. Phelps, DO, ’84, president
The University’s 130th anniversary arrived at a time with much to celebrate. In the midst of a season of commencement and white coat ceremonies where ATSU celebrated graduates and welcomed new students, the Museum of Osteopathic Medicine was awarded accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums, the highest recognition achievable for the nation’s museums.
Then came a host of Founder’s Day events, which brought the University community together on each campus to celebrate ATSU’s past and progress in fun and meaningful ways. Among the traditional Founder’s Day events was a special ceremony on the Kirksville, Missouri, campus for the rededication of the Museum of Osteopathic Medicine. Leaders across the osteopathic profession joined together to celebrate the occasion while showing their support for the museum and the University.
To see how the University celebrated this milestone year, please view the following stories:
The Museum of Osteopathic Medicine achieved accreditation by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), the highest national recognition afforded the nation’s museums. Accreditation signifies excellence to the museum community, governments, funders, outside agencies, and the museum-going public.
AAM accreditation brings national recognition to a museum for its commitment to excellence, accountability, high professional standards, and continued institutional improvement. Developed and sustained by museum professionals for 50 years, AAM’s museum accreditation program is the field’s primary vehicle for quality assurance, self-regulation, and public accountability.
“The Museum of Osteopathic Medicine is the world’s repository of items related to the history of osteopathic medicine and philosophy of osteopathy,” says ATSU President Craig Phelps, DO, ’84. “Receiving AAM accreditation helps assure the museum will continue to preserve this important history of a healthcare movement originating in America.”
“Not enough can be said about our current museum staff, which as a team deserves accolades for our AAM accreditation achievement,” says Museum of Osteopathic Medicine Director Jason Haxton, MA. “They are consummate museum professionals in their daily work and future plans for the museum.
“With our AAM accredited designation, we look forward to new opportunities in growth, outreach, and funding for our museum work.”
Of the nation’s estimated 33,000 museums, fewer than 1,100 are currently accredited. In Missouri, the Museum of Osteopathic Medicine is one of only 20 accredited museums, including The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City and Saint Louis Art Museum.
Accreditation is a rigorous but highly rewarding process examining all aspects of a museum’s operations. To earn accreditation, a museum first must conduct a year of self-study and then undergo a site visit by a team of peer reviewers. AAM’s Accreditation Commission, an independent and autonomous body of museum professionals, considers the self-study and visiting committee report to determine whether a museum should receive accreditation.
“Accredited museums are a community of institutions that have chosen to hold themselves publicly accountable to excellence,” says Laura L. Lott, president and CEO, AAM. “Accreditation is clearly a significant achievement, of which both the institutions and the communities they serve can be extremely proud.”
Connect to osteopathic history
The collections of the Museum of Osteopathic Medicine include more than 100,000 objects, photographs, documents, and books dating from the early 1800s to the present. The core of the collection consists of artifacts from the professional and private life of A.T. Still, DO, most of them donated by Dr. Still’s daughter, Blanche Laughlin, and members of the family.
To view the artifacts or for more information, please visit the Museum of Osteopathic Medicine in person or virtually.
The Museum of Osteopathic Medicine held its rededication ceremony Friday, Oct. 14, during Founder’s Day festivities on the Kirksville, Missouri, campus. The event brought together more than 100 ATSU alumni, faculty, staff, students, administrators, and community members, as well as leaders from the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine, American Osteopathic Association, Missouri Association of Osteopathic Physicians & Surgeons, and Arizona Osteopathic Medical Association.
ATSU President Craig Phelps, DO, ’84, led the event by welcoming and introducing guests and announcing the beginning of a yearlong celebration of the museum’s accreditation by the American Alliance of Museums and rededication to the osteopathic profession. He also acknowledged the museum staff for their tireless work and attention to detail.
Dr. Craig Phelps addresses the audience during the Museum of Osteopathic Medicine rededication ceremony.
“As the repository, recorder, and living memory of the osteopathic movement, the Museum of Osteopathic Medicine is charged with collecting, preserving, researching, and interpreting the story of osteopathic medicine,” Dr. Phelps said. “After several years of researching and cataloging items, study and preparation, this summer, ATSU received notification from the American Alliance of Museums that the Museum of Osteopathic Medicine was accredited.”
ATSU-KCOM Dean Margaret Wilson, DO, ’82, also recognized local and national guests and acknowledged the efforts of museum staff. The Museum of Osteopathic Medicine, she said, is a gem for the College and the osteopathic profession.
“I’m a proud native of Kirksville,” Dr. Wilson said. “What grew out of Dr. Still’s beginnings here has become an incredible profession that we all can be so proud of.”
Among the national osteopathic leaders in attendance, Kevin Klauer, DO, EJD, CEO of the American Osteopathic Association, addressed the audience and thanked ATSU for the opportunity to participate in the museum’s celebration. He congratulated the museum on its national achievement and expressed gratitude for the museum’s efforts in preserving the osteopathic profession’s heritage.
“We enjoy the opportunity to serve the osteopathic profession, 178,000 osteopathic physicians and medical students and growing, and we couldn’t do that without the support and the effort that all of you have taken to preserve our heritage,” Dr. Klauer said. “Without preserving our heritage, without making sure people don’t forget where we came from, so that we can remind them of where we’re going to be and how important we are in the healthcare community, we would not be nearly as strong or as effective. That starts here where everything began.”
In addition, Dr. Klauer gave a personal thank you to Museum of Osteopathic Medicine Director Jason Haxton, MA, calling him a champion for osteopathic history.
Following the ceremony, Jason Haxton speaks with Dr. Richard H. Still III, ’78, descendant of Dr. A.T. Still.
ATSU Board of Trustees Chair Herb Kuhn delivered remarks on behalf of the board. He congratulated all who contributed to the museum’s accreditation efforts and acknowledged the significance of this milestone.
“This museum has created a powerful understanding and appreciation of the profession of osteopathic medicine,” Kuhn said. “This new status, this accreditation status, is going to continue to allow us to preserve and display the important artifacts of this profession.”
Then, Dr. Phelps introduced Haxton to the audience and shared details of his background and museum work. Haxton, who has served as director of the museum since 2000, gave a brief history of the museum’s beginnings and evolution.
“One hundred thirty years ago, a man with an idea for better healthcare for each individual started teaching a new way of medicine,” Haxton said. “Then he passed in 1917, and about 17 years later, his daughter, Blanche, not wanting us to forget what he had done, put two little curio cabinets of some of his personal artifacts in the Administration Building. That was our beginning.”
Drs. Monica Haines and Richard Koss, ’82, visit museum exhibits.
During Founder’s Day events, they received
the Distinguished Patron Award for outstanding service to ATSU and philanthropic support of its programs.
Today, with more than 100,000 objects, photographs, documents, and books making up its collections, the Museum of Osteopathic Medicine continues to grow while preserving history for future generations. One example of that growth was a recent major gift made by Elsie Gaber, PhD, former assistant vice president for university relations and associate dean for the School for Health Management (now ATSU-CGHS), and Ron Gaber, DHL, dean emeritus of students and vice president emeritus of student affairs.
During the museum ceremony, the Gabers’ gift was announced and the historic medicinal garden was formally dedicated as Elsie’s Medicinal Garden. Their gift, which is preserved in an endowment to support the museum in perpetuity, was made in support of the museum’s mission to preserve and promote the tenets of osteopathy, with the deep understanding of the museum’s humble beginnings and the importance it holds for the osteopathic profession today and for its future, and with respect for the unfailing dedication of the museum staff. It was also made to demonstrate the couple’s thankfulness to the University and to support the outstanding accreditation work of Haxton and his staff. As a memento of the occasion, the Gabers were honored with a framed photo of themselves standing together in the medical garden.
Drs. Elsie and Ron Gaber are honored during the museum ceremony for their gift, naming the historic medical garden as Elsie’s Medicinal Garden.
The ceremony concluded with Kirksville Mayor Zac Burden offering a proclamation for the official city record. He read the proclamation in full to the audience, recognizing and celebrating ATSU and the Museum of Osteopathic Medicine for the accreditation honor from the American Alliance of Museums.
“The future is very bright,” Dr. Phelps said in his closing remarks, noting the growth of osteopathic medical education. “We need to make sure all students in all the schools understand the uniqueness of osteopathic medicine and why it is so special. We want to connect future generations to the profession and work of Dr. Still.”
Brian Murillo, Clarissa Rodriguez, and Stephanie McGrew celebrate the museum’s rededication with Bucky.
Every October, ATSU commemorates its founder, A.T. Still, DO, with a University-wide celebration honoring his influence on healthcare education and recognizing the alumni who keep his legacy alive. From commemorating osteopathic history in Kirksville, Missouri, to carnival games in Mesa, Arizona, along with a celebratory luncheon on the newest campus in Santa Maria, California, the following celebrations made ATSU’s 130th anniversary a year to remember.
Dr. Ariana Peters delivers 2022 Tinning Founder’s Day Osteopathy Lecture.
Dr. Ariana Peters hugs student after delivering 2022 Tinning Founder’s Day Osteopathy Lecture.
Drs. Daniel Biery, ’72, Stephen Kardos, ’68, Raymond Mathis, ’72, and Paul Poncy, ’72, are honored during the Alumni Recognition Ceremony at White Oaks Barn.
At Still-A-Bration in Kirksville, Missouri, kids of all ages play carnival games to win prizes.
ATSU students in Mesa, Arizona, play carnival games and compete in a pie eating contest.
Family and friends also participate in various activities, including corn hole.
ATSU-ASDOH students join in the fun.
In Kirksville, Missouri, first-year ATSU students defeat second-year students in the annual flag football game, 13-6.
The first-year and second-year cheerleaders entertain the crowd during halftime.
In Mesa, Arizona, the ATSU-ASHS Physical Therapy/Physician Assistant team wins the Powder Puff championship game against ATSU-ASDOH, 24-12. ATSU-SOMA wins the coveted Spirit Stick with more than 100 students, faculty, and staff on the sidelines cheering for their team.
Still Magazine celebrates the University’s 130th anniversary by recognizing the influence ATSU has made in healthcare and healthcare education. The concept of whole person healthcare may have seemed radical in 1892, but ATSU’s founder, A.T. Still, DO, knew it was the best approach for patient care. His pioneering ideas were met with skepticism and resistance, but he remained steadfast in his beliefs. And today, his movement continues to grow.
Osteopathic medicine has expanded from one school in Kirksville, Missouri, to 38 accredited colleges across the U.S. For the founding American School of Osteopathy, now known as ATSU-KCOM, it is part of a thriving university comprising seven schools with online and residential programs spanning the health professions. In addition to its heritage campus in Kirksville, campuses are also located in Mesa, Arizona, and Santa Maria, California, with a learning site in St. Louis.
Still Magazine highlights each of ATSU’s schools and how they are contributing to the innovative healthcare education that began 130 years ago. Through the perspectives of deans and students, they share a glimpse of what makes ATSU a special place to work and learn.
Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine Founding college, established 1892
Innovation
Comprehensive clinical ultrasound program ATSU-KCOM was a national leader in incorporating bedside ultrasound into its medical curriculum, and today, the College continues to have one of the most extensive programs.
State-of-the-art human patient simulation lab One of the best simulation labs in the country, the Drabing Human Patient Simulation Lab uses current technology with hands-on experience in clinical care to educate students and residents.
The ATSU difference
ATSU-KCOM is committed to student success and producing the best osteopathic physicians to meet the needs of patients. The curriculum, though demanding, prepares students to be successful in every aspect of their future, including boards, residency match, and practice. In addition to academic preparation, the College provides a supportive environment for students to learn and grow into well-rounded professionals. Alumni often refer affectionately to their time on campus as the “Kirksville experience,” where they made many lifelong friends and colleagues.
Megan J. Lee
Fourth-year medical student
“The first time I stepped foot onto the ATSU campus in Kirksville, it was like coming home. Everyone was so welcoming and sincere. It’s as if I was already family and they’d been waiting for me.” -Megan J. Lee
Day in the life “Each year’s typical school day has been vastly different. The first two years were like opening the floodgates – the sheer amount of knowledge is still overwhelming to think about! I became pregnant with my son shortly before my second year. The staff and faculty were so supportive and happy for me! When my son made his healthy arrival, I was given plenty of time off. I kept up with my schoolwork from home and had extra support from faculty and staff throughout those first few months as a new mom. Now, I’m finishing up my clinical clerkship rotations and applying to residencies. Many days are spent in clinics or hospitals, obtaining detailed patient histories, performing physical exams, producing assessment lists and plans, and of course, lots of charting.”
Favorite thing about ATSU-KCOM The faculty
Career aspirations Family medicine physician
Ryan McLachlan
Third-year medical student
“I think one of the most innovative aspects of the program is the Drabing Human Patient Simulation Center and the opportunities students have there. The lab is used to run simulated patient cases for students and residents, and the students have the opportunity to learn alongside the residents, which I love.” -Ryan McLachlan
Day in the life “A school day for me always starts with a trip to the Thompson Campus Center, then focus on school. During my first two years, I would spend the morning watching lectures from the day before, with the afternoon spent on board prep. This past year during my fellowship, I spent a lot of time in the simulation and ultrasound labs. In the evening and my spare time, I spend time with my wife, Rachel, and our dog, Della.”
Favorite thing about ATSU-KCOM Sense of community
Career aspirations Family medicine physician in rural area
Margaret Wilson, DO, ’82
ATSU-KCOM dean
Dr. Wilson visits the Drabing Human Patient Simulation Center where the latest cardiopulmonary patient simulator has been installed. Compared with other patient simulators, Harvey® realistically simulates nearly any cardiac disease at the touch of a button by varying blood pressure, pulses, heart sounds, murmurs, and breath sounds.
“It has been an incredible honor to serve as dean for my alma mater. I have been so fortunate to be able to serve my college and my profession in this position during these past 10 years. I truly love the people. ATSU-KCOM students are outstanding; they are hardworking and dedicated to becoming the best possible professionals. Our staff and faculty are very committed to student success and work collegially to make it a wonderful learning and working environment. I also love the history we get to see and experience being on the Kirksville, Missouri, campus. It is inspiring.”
Alumni perspective
John Thurman Jr., DO, ’12, a family medicine attending physician at Southeast Iowa Regional Medical Center in Fort Madison, says, “I graduated my undergraduate studies from the United States Military Academy at West Point, the nation’s first military academy. I recognized early on when an institution is the first, then generally it does not rest on its laurels and continues to strive toward excellence. The College continues to have a strong focus on body, mind, and spirit in concert with osteopathic manipulation with the application of the modern, and changing, needs of medicine. The program most prepared me for my career by ensuring a focus on humanity with every patient encounter.”
View the video below to see more about ATSU-KCOM, in their words.
To learn about innovative healthcare education at other ATSU schools, please follow the links below:
Still Magazine celebrates the University’s 130th anniversary by recognizing the influence ATSU has made in healthcare and healthcare education. The concept of whole person healthcare may have seemed radical in 1892, but ATSU’s founder, A.T. Still, DO, knew it was the best approach for patient care. His pioneering ideas were met with skepticism and resistance, but he remained steadfast in his beliefs. And today, his movement continues to grow.
Osteopathic medicine has expanded from one school in Kirksville, Missouri, to 38 accredited colleges across the U.S. For the founding American School of Osteopathy, now known as ATSU-KCOM, it is part of a thriving university comprising seven schools with online and residential programs spanning the health professions. In addition to its heritage campus in Kirksville, campuses are also located in Mesa, Arizona, and Santa Maria, California, with a learning site in St. Louis.
Still Magazine highlights each of ATSU’s schools and how they are contributing to the innovative healthcare education that began 130 years ago. Through the perspectives of deans and students, they share a glimpse of what makes ATSU a special place to work and learn.
Arizona School of Health Sciences Established 1995
Innovation
Speech-Language Pathology program ATSU-ASHS’ new Speech-Language Pathology program focuses on graduates who are prepared to provide services to bilingual communities with speech-language pathology and swallowing disorders.
Telehealth and telepractice To improve access to care, the School has integrated telehealth and telepractice with single courses and threaded modules throughout its programs.
Microcredential digital badges The Doctor of Athletic Training and Master of Science in Athletic Training digital badging initiative makes it easier for athletic training students to showcase their advanced training and competency for employment opportunities. Digital badges in single courses lead to microcredentialing in important areas of practice, such as clinic decision-making.
The ATSU difference
ATSU-ASHS prepares students for success by integrating blended learning, simulated case platforms, and state-of-the-art patient care models into their educational experience. Each program promotes community engagement, evidence-based practice, and advocacy for patients, the profession, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. The School’s programs span the full spectrum of professional education, and alumni of entry-level programs often return to ATSU-ASHS for post-professional degrees, advanced certificates, and residencies. The School as a whole is a unique constellation of health professions exemplifying the necessity of whole person healthcare in the real world.
Duc Phan
First-year doctor of audiology student
“I was very impressed with how comprehensive the audiology curriculum is at ATSU. There are courses listed in the curriculum that are not offered in other programs, such as two vestibular courses, two business courses, and an anatomy course with a lab component.” -Duc Phan
Day in the life “There’s not really a typical school day, but that’s what makes it exciting. For example, this term I have three full days on campus with classes and labs. Every Friday morning, we have Audiology Grand Rounds with all the first-, second-, and third-year students along with the audiology faculty. I have a full day at a clinical site in Arizona one day per week, leaving one day for studying and a little relaxation. I am also president of the Student Academy of Audiology, so aside from classes, I have to plan and organize meetings and events with other officers and members.”
Favorite thing about ATSU-ASHS Faculty open-door policy
Career aspirations Well-versed audiologist who can serve many patients with different needs
Nadine Quarrell
Third-year doctor of physical therapy student
“Our program had the amazing opportunity of having a pro-bono clinic. This allowed us to apply our learning with real patients and the guidance of our instructors. Not every physical therapy program has the opportunity to have such a clinical opportunity, and being a part of the student board was very rewarding.” -Nadine Quarrell
Day in the life “Before clinical rotations, a typical school day for me consisted of a 20-minute commute to campus. Once on campus, I would typically be in classes for the majority of the day. If I happened to have a break in between classes, I would mostly spend it in a library room studying with my friends. Some days after school, I would work evenings at the ATSU Center for Occupational and Physical Therapy pro-bono clinic.”
Favorite thing about ATSU-ASHS Faculty support and student events
Career aspirations Provide physical therapy services in underserved areas of home state
Jacob Layfield
Physician assistant graduate, ’22 Doctor of medical science student, ’24
“ATSU’s mantra, in regard to the osteopathic approach, focuses on the ‘body, mind, and spirit.’ The implementation of these principles through our curriculum cultivates growth within us as providers to understand our patients better and to provide comprehensive and holistic care.” -Jacob Layfield
Day in the life “During the first 14 months of the 26-month program, I was in the didactic phase, which consisted of lectures, labs, and test taking. The second phase of the program was the clinical portion, which consisted of eight six-week rotations. During these rotations, I saw patients, created patient charts, and curated treatment plans through the supervision and guidance of preceptors. Currently, I have completed all my core rotations and will be concluding my clinical year with an orthopedic surgical subspecialty in Arizona.”
Favorite thing about ATSU-ASHS Faculty guidance and responsiveness
Career aspirations Emergency medicine physician assistant
Ann Lee Burch, PT, EdD, MPH
ATSU-ASHS dean
During formal meetings in Roadrunner conference room or walks across campus, Dr. Burch enjoys every opportunity to meet and catch up with her colleagues. Leading a committed team with determined resolve, she embraces the moments where chairs, directors, faculty, and staff come together to face challenges and celebrate successes.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my experience serving as dean of ATSU-ASHS. I love celebrating the School’s successes with all who have helped to bring new programs and innovative ideas to fruition. I am surrounded by colleagues who recognize that underserved communities need our graduates – leaders in the health professions committed to whole person healthcare and reducing health disparities. Our faculty members excel in teaching, scholarship, and service and are motivated by the mission of the University every day. Our staff keeps everything running smoothly, and each individual is essential to our success.”
View the video below to see more about ATSU-ASHS, in their words.
To learn about innovative healthcare education at other ATSU schools, please follow the links below:
Still Magazine celebrates the University’s 130th anniversary by recognizing the influence ATSU has made in healthcare and healthcare education. The concept of whole person healthcare may have seemed radical in 1892, but ATSU’s founder, A.T. Still, DO, knew it was the best approach for patient care. His pioneering ideas were met with skepticism and resistance, but he remained steadfast in his beliefs. And today, his movement continues to grow.
Osteopathic medicine has expanded from one school in Kirksville, Missouri, to 38 accredited colleges across the U.S. For the founding American School of Osteopathy, now known as ATSU-KCOM, it is part of a thriving university comprising seven schools with online and residential programs spanning the health professions. In addition to its heritage campus in Kirksville, campuses are also located in Mesa, Arizona, and Santa Maria, California, with a learning site in St. Louis.
Still Magazine highlights each of ATSU’s schools and how they are contributing to the innovative healthcare education that began 130 years ago. Through the perspectives of deans and students, they share a glimpse of what makes ATSU a special place to work and learn.
College of Graduate Health Studies Established 1999
Innovation
Hot button issues ATSU-CGHS’ Doctor and Master of Health Administration programs incorporate relevant “hot button” healthcare management issues into weekly announcements and forum discussions.
Project-based learning The College’s curricula are heavily focused on project-based learning to influence healthcare practice in real time. This pedagogical approach allows students to use knowledge they gain throughout their course to develop solutions and innovative approaches to real-life workplace issues.
Doctor of Education in Health Professions (EdD) program The prestigious EdD curriculum uses practical, experience-based teaching designed for practicing clinicians, healthcare educators, leaders, and directors who desire to pursue their passion to teach.
Specialty tracks Within ATSU-CGHS’ Kinesiology program, students have the choice of pursuing several specialty tracks, which allow them to develop a passion and area of expertise within the workforce.
Student support From the first phone call to graduation, ATSU-CGHS places heavy emphasis on support, care, advising, and checkpoints along a student’s educational journey.
The ATSU difference
ATSU-CGHS offers an authentic classroom experience in an online environment. Courses are taught by scholar-practitioners who bring the curricula to life through their pedagogical expertise and real-life work experience. Class sizes are small to enhance interaction with students and faculty, and support services are personalized and focus on connection. Further, the College was awarded Exemplary Program status from Quality Matters for achieving recognition in all four program certification areas: online program design, online teaching support, online learner success, and online learner support.
Amy Posterick
Doctor of education in health professions student, ’24
“The assignments are structured as authentic, hands-on tasks that develop the skills needed in the field. I have been able to apply what I have learned directly in my work and use my occupational experiences as a foundation for the coursework assignments.” -Amy Posterick
Day in the life “A typical school day involves academics following my day job. As a non-traditional student, I appreciate the structure and flexibility of the EdD program, which allows me to receive challenging education while also continuing to serve my community through my work in the public health field for a local nonprofit. The typical day of coursework involves extensive reading, writing, and researching. I was excited to celebrate my personal benchmark recently of writing over 1 million words since beginning the program.”
Favorite thing about ATSU-CGHS The focus on applicable education
Career aspirations Academic research
Tye Helm
Doctor of health administration student, ’25
“ATSU does a great job in providing diversity in their programs. Not only do we have the opportunity to work with individuals from different cultural backgrounds, but we also have the opportunity to work with students with different academic backgrounds and focuses.” -Tye Helm
Day in the life “To stay on top of my studies and meet participation requirements, I try to access the coursework on a regular basis. Typically, I will read a section of the reading requirements and complete a portion of the week’s assignments every day and work to complete discussion question posts in order to maintain ongoing interactions with my classmates. A benefit of online programs is that we get to ‘attend’ class on our time and schedules, so I usually pull up the course content in the morning and decide what components I will tackle for the day.”
Favorite thing about ATSU-CGHS Program flexibility and outgoing, supportive professors
Career aspirations Improve community health and lead change within health organizations
Marisa Hastie, EdD, MS, ACSM EP-C, PN-1, FACSM
ATSU-CGHS dean
Dr. Hastie feels fortunate to work with a multitalented, passionate, and student-centered team. While stopping by A.T. Still Memorial Library in Mesa, Arizona, she says ATSU-CGHS provides one of the most caring, supportive, and transformational educational experiences she has seen in her career.
“I see endless possibilities on the horizon for ATSU-CGHS. I want to continue the strong tradition of online graduate education ATSU-CGHS is so well known for and continue elevating us to the next level. I would like to see us continue to lift the voices of underserved and underrepresented populations, find avenues to make graduate education affordable and attainable, and be innovators in the online education arena. Our graduates have the opportunity to significantly shift their professions toward a more responsive, patient/client-centered care model and to be a part of a more diverse and representative workforce.”
Alumni perspective
Brenae L. Maddix, MPH, ’20, an education integration specialist at ATSU-SOMA, says, “Although the program is solely online, my instructors were easily accessible, created interactive lessons that led to robust discussions, and made distance learning not feel so far away. Working at an institution that is committed to serving underserved populations, my degree has empowered me to better understand the multifaceted impact of social determinants of health on a community. As I work with osteopathic medical students, I am better equipped with the knowledge and tools to support the students in becoming socially conscious, culturally proficient physicians who are able to not only make decisions on how services should be delivered but also analyze and interpret information.”
View the video below to see more about ATSU-CGHS, in their words.
To learn about innovative healthcare education at other ATSU schools, please follow the links below:
Still Magazine celebrates the University’s 130th anniversary by recognizing the influence ATSU has made in healthcare and healthcare education. The concept of whole person healthcare may have seemed radical in 1892, but ATSU’s founder, A.T. Still, DO, knew it was the best approach for patient care. His pioneering ideas were met with skepticism and resistance, but he remained steadfast in his beliefs. And today, his movement continues to grow.
Osteopathic medicine has expanded from one school in Kirksville, Missouri, to 38 accredited colleges across the U.S. For the founding American School of Osteopathy, now known as ATSU-KCOM, it is part of a thriving university comprising seven schools with online and residential programs spanning the health professions. In addition to its heritage campus in Kirksville, campuses are also located in Mesa, Arizona, and Santa Maria, California, with a learning site in St. Louis.
Still Magazine highlights each of ATSU’s schools and how they are contributing to the innovative healthcare education that began 130 years ago. Through the perspectives of deans and students, they share a glimpse of what makes ATSU a special place to work and learn.
Arizona School of Dentistry & Oral Health Established 2003
Innovation
Community-focused curriculum ATSU-ASDOH’s predoctoral curriculum provides students with a deep understanding of the social determinants of health and the ability to become leaders who address health inequities in their communities.
Integrated Community Service Partnerships (ICSP) Starting late in the third year and continuing throughout the fourth year, the ICSP program consists of rotations at four to five community health centers within ATSU-ASDOH’s national network of approximately 70 sites. During these rotations, students gain extensive clinical experience providing oral healthcare to underserved populations and gain a better understanding of the communities they serve.
Clinic technology A national leader in implementing the latest technology and techniques into patient care centers, the School’s student clinical experiences include application of digital scanners, CAD/CAM, 3D printers, lasers, artificial intelligence-based software, teledentistry, and more.
Group general practice structure The heart of ATSU-ASDOH’s clinical education program is a practice environment consisting of comprehensive care units, specialty clinics, and specialty faculty. The School also has one of the most highly recognized programs for providing oral healthcare to patients with special needs, including complex medical conditions.
The ATSU difference
Founded with a commitment to the communities it serves, ATSU-ASDOH programs provide students with a depth and scope of clinical experiences second to none, and community members have the opportunity to access affordable oral healthcare in a patient-centered environment. Graduates are committed to providing access to care in a wide variety of practice settings, including community health centers, Indian Health Service and tribal clinics, and the military and public health service, as well as serving as faculty members and volunteers for community and humanitarian events.
Dimitri Mahee
Second-year dental student
“Dentistry is filled with much innovation, but some key aspects at ATSU-ASDOH are CAD/CAM dentistry, the simulation clinic, and other virtual simulators, like local anesthesia injections and radiologic (X-ray) imaging.” -Dimitri Mahee
Day in the life “A typical day for me consists of didactic classwork while juggling simulation clinic and seeing patients in the clinic. While it’s all very challenging, I welcome challenges, as they will help me become the best clinician I can be.”
Favorite thing about ATSU-ASDOH Camaraderie
Career aspirations Dentist at Indian Health Service facility or tribal clinic, eventually building a practice and creating a dental support organization, while serving on dental mission trips throughout career
Morris Bui
Second-year dental student
“Volunteering at Give Kids A Smile, I witnessed firsthand how tight-knit this ATSU-ASDOH family was. Students were having so much fun serving the community while providing oral care and maintaining a professional mannerism. During lunch, students were having exciting conversations, and it seemed as if no one was excluded.” -Morris Bui
Day in the life “After my morning routine and some stretching, I head out and drive to school, which is no more than 5 minutes away. Some days of the week we are in the didactic lecture halls, and the other days at what I like to call, ‘The Dojo.’ My favorite days are when we are at the simulation clinic, ‘The Dojo,’ because it really challenges the mind and body. It is a great change of pace from all the bookwork we have. Most times, I go home for lunch, but every once in a while, groups of classmates will go eat out together. The school days usually end around 5:00 p.m. Once I get home, I have dinner with my roommate and girlfriend who lives with me.”
Favorite thing about ATSU-ASDOH Supportive faculty and community outreach opportunities
Career aspirations Dentist who serves all community members
Robert Trombly, DDS, JD
ATSU-ASDOH dean
From a patient operatory in the Dr. Rick Workman Advanced Care Clinic, Dr. Trombly says the School’s dental clinics have approximately 60,000 patient visits each year. These clinics provide students and residents with educational opportunities incorporating mission-driven curricular components and service-learning experiences.
“ATSU-ASDOH was founded with an institutional culture of caring for others and giving back to our communities. What I continue to experience with each new entering class of predoctoral students and residents, and with each new staff and faculty member who joins our ATSU-ASDOH family, is this culture of caring keeps growing stronger every year.”
Alumni perspective
Andrew Larkin, DMD, MPH, ’19, a second-year resident in ATSU-ASDOH’s Postgraduate Orthodontic Program, says, “Having state-of-the-art facilities with forward-thinking faculty is ultimately what helped me decide to complete my dental training here at the Mesa, Arizona, campus. During completion of the DMD program, I truly realized the significance of the ‘ATSU-ASDOH family’ I had heard so much about, and the impact it has on students both personally and professionally.”
View the video below to see more about ATSU-ASDOH, in their words.
To learn about innovative healthcare education at other ATSU schools, please follow the links below:
Still Magazine celebrates the University’s 130th anniversary by recognizing the influence ATSU has made in healthcare and healthcare education. The concept of whole person healthcare may have seemed radical in 1892, but ATSU’s founder, A.T. Still, DO, knew it was the best approach for patient care. His pioneering ideas were met with skepticism and resistance, but he remained steadfast in his beliefs. And today, his movement continues to grow.
Osteopathic medicine has expanded from one school in Kirksville, Missouri, to 38 accredited colleges across the U.S. For the founding American School of Osteopathy, now known as ATSU-KCOM, it is part of a thriving university comprising seven schools with online and residential programs spanning the health professions. In addition to its heritage campus in Kirksville, campuses are also located in Mesa, Arizona, and Santa Maria, California, with a learning site in St. Louis.
Still Magazine highlights each of ATSU’s schools and how they are contributing to the innovative healthcare education that began 130 years ago. Through the perspectives of deans and students, they share a glimpse of what makes ATSU a special place to work and learn.
School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona Established 2006
Innovation
1+3 model ATSU-SOMA features a unique curriculum model where students are embedded in community health center partner sites early in their medical education. Beginning in their second year, students are immersed in team-based care, interprofessional collaboration, community-oriented primary care research, and population health as they learn to provide care for vulnerable communities.
Clinical presentation curriculum The School focuses on transforming students into master adaptive learners through case-based inquiry in small-group learning. Using a clinical presentation model as the foundation of its curriculum, students learn the practice of medicine through the approximately 120 ways patients present to physicians.
The ATSU difference
ATSU-SOMA is at the forefront of preparing its students to thrive in the evolving healthcare landscape. From the start of their first year, students are educated in healthcare disparities and social determinants of health, population health, clinical skills, self-directed clinical reasoning skills, and point-of-care bedside ultrasound. In addition, they hone entrustable professional activities and, prior to graduation, ensure residency readiness through an immersive two-day, two-night intern physician simulation.
Destiné Cammon-Thompson
Second-year medical student
“I think the most innovative aspects of the curriculum are Medical Skills patient exams nearly every week and the small-group case study sessions. I enjoyed Medical Skills because I grew so much as a person in regard to confidence while interacting with and treating patients.” -Destiné Cammon-Thompson
Day in the life “After I wake up, I journal, review my Anki cards, watch lectures, and attend in-person sessions, if any. Then, I take an hour for nonschool-related fun, eat dinner, and end the day reviewing more notes.”
Favorite thing about ATSU-SOMA Interactions with facilitators who are practicing physicians
Career aspirations Dual-certified pediatric specialist
Issa Ismail
Fourth-year medical student
“I think the learning model that ATSU-SOMA has is unique and innovative. I think getting into a local community health center early in medical education is a great idea that helps commit concrete concepts to memory.” -Issa Ismail
Day in the life “A typical day starts with a cup of coffee while I make my kids their breakfast and pack their school snacks. Then it’s off to the hospital or clinic for the day. When I get home, I eat dinner with the family and help my wife put the kids to bed, and if I’m not exhausted by that point, I try to study a little before bed.”
Favorite thing about ATSU-SOMA Clerkships in community hospitals
Career aspirations Physician serving and advocating for local community
Sharon Obadia, DO, FNAOME, ’97
ATSU-SOMA interim dean
From the second floor landing of the Main Building, Dr. Obadia notes the growing number of alumni as faculty members on campus and as regional directors of medical education and osteopathic principles and practice faculty at community health center partner sites. She says 17 alumni are serving as physicians at those sites and more than 40 alumni are serving as preceptors across the country.
“As ATSU-SOMA’s curriculum evolves to meet the healthcare needs of vulnerable communities, I am incredibly proud to represent us. Through the tremendous dedication of staff, faculty, administrators, regional education coordinators, regional directors of medical education, community health center partners, and a growing number of our alumni reengaging, everyone has the singular goal of creating compassionate and competent osteopathic physicians caring for those most in need.”
Alumni perspective
Brian Goodman, DO, ’14, deputy chief medical officer at North Country HealthCare in Show Low, Arizona, says, “The curriculum is designed in a way that prepares doctors to work in rural underserved communities. I was raised in a rural community and remember a talk from Dr. Gary Cloud about efforts to impact infant mortality rates in a border town. A forward-thinking healthcare system realized that pregnant patients were seeking care and advice from the elderly women in the town. To impact change, they realized they had to partner with these elderly women. I remember thinking about how we have to truly work with members of the community to realize community health. Something clicked for me that day, and I think of this story frequently as I serve as a healer in my small community.”
View the video below to see more about ATSU-SOMA, in their words.
To learn about innovative healthcare education at other ATSU schools, please follow the links below:
