KOAA honorees set higher standard
Posted: November 4, 2009
ATSU-KCOM and the Kirksville Osteopathic Alumni Association (KOAA) honored several individuals at their annual meeting held in conjunction with the American Osteopathic Association Convention in New Orleans on November 2.
Each year, the KOAA recognizes outstanding alumni and friends with various awards. “The individuals honored ensure the continued reputation of excellence at our University,” said KOAA Board of Directors President Jeff Summe, D.O., ’87. “At the same time, these individuals set a high standard for the aspiration and goals of KCOM. We are proud to honor their leadership, service, and commitment.”
The Alumnus of the Year Award, established in 1982, recognizes graduates who have made outstanding contributions to the college and osteopathic profession. Wilbur Hill, D.O., ’51, of Liberty, Mo., is the 2009 Alumnus of the Year.
The Living Tribute Award was established in 1969 and honors out- standing ATSU-KCOM faculty and administration. Margaret Wilson, D.O., ’82, chair of community/family medicine, is the 2009 Living Tribute Award recipient. To date, 35 distinguished individuals have received this award.
The Distinguished Service Award, established in 1991, recognizes alumni and friends who have provided outstanding service and/or financial support to ATSU-KCOM. The 2009 honorees are Larry Wickless, D.O., ’67, AOA president; and Richard Cenedella, Ph.D, biochemistry professor at ATSU-KCOM.
The Honorary KOAA Membership was established in 1948 to recognize individuals who render meritorious service to osteopathic education. The 2008 honorees at this year’s convention were Dean Maag, Academic Technologies director; Norine Eitel, Sponsored Programs director; Steve Jorden, Student Financial Services director; and Ruth Chronister, Pharmacology executive secretary.