Celebrate A.T. Still’s birthday
Posted: August 6, 2025
Greetings, students, faculty, staff, and alumni
Today, Wednesday, August 6, we honor A.T. Still, founder of osteopathic medicine, who dared to question, innovate, and build something enduring. His life reminds us healthcare isn’t just about treating symptoms; it’s about treating the whole person, mind, body, and spirit.
No matter where you’re studying—Kirksville, St. Louis, Mesa, Santa Maria, or online—you’re walking in the footsteps of a pioneer. You are part of a legacy that began on this day in 1828 and continues to shape the delivery of healthcare.
Faculty, staff, and alumni, you continue his legacy each day through teaching, mentoring, researching, supporting, and caring for our students and communities. Whether you’re in the classroom, patient care centers, behind the scenes, or on the front lines, you are part of something extraordinary.
Today, let’s take a moment to celebrate:
- Dr. Still, who started it all 197 years ago.
- ATSU, the university we’re proud to call home.
- And the meaningful work we do together to keep Dr. Still’s mission alive.
Thank you for all you do, and happy birthday, Dr. Still!
Fun fact: At 10 years old, Dr. Still used a rope sling to ease a headache. He later called it his first osteopathic discovery. (Still A.T., Autobiography. Published by the author. Kirksville, Mo., 1897, p 19)
Here’s to many more “aha” moments ahead for each of you.
Yours in service,
Craig M. Phelps, DO, ’84
Chancellor