Second-generation ATSU-KCOM graduate Dr. Jonathan Cleaver carries forward a family legacy of dermatologic care, education, and service
Posted: April 13, 2026
Kirksville, Missouri, is where Jonathan Cleaver, DO, FAOCD, FAAD, FASMS, ’08, began his journey in osteopathic medicine – and where it continues today.
“When I grew up, all I knew was osteopathic medicine,” he says. “It was what my family lived and breathed.”
Dr. Cleaver, a member of ATSU’s Board of Trustees, is a second-generation graduate of ATSU-Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine (ATSU-KCOM), following in his father’s footsteps.
In addition to knowing he wanted to be a doctor of osteopathic medicine, Dr. Cleaver also knew what he wanted to specialize in. As a kindergartner, he placed a note in a time capsule declaring his dream of becoming a dermatologist. That dream became a reality, and today, Dr. Cleaver works alongside his father and brother David at Cleaver Dermatology in Kirksville. His younger brother, Nathan, practices in Georgia while continuing to support the family practice through dermatopathology. The family also directs the dermatology residency program.
“My passion, as well as my family’s, is to provide high-quality healthcare in rural and underserved areas,” he says. “Our mission has always been to remain in Kirksville and train residents who want to provide dermatological care in underserved areas.”
This mission also extends beyond the clinic walls. The practice operates outreach clinics at six locations within a 90-mile radius, bringing specialized dermatology services to patients who might otherwise go without care.
Half of Dr. Cleaver’s practice is surgical, while the other half is medical, a balance he finds especially rewarding.
“I like the variety of being in an outpatient setting,” he says. “We get to talk to our patients and develop personal relationships. In dermatology, we’re lucky patients can see themselves getting better. It tends to be a very gratifying specialty.”
In addition to maintaining his practice, Dr. Cleaver is currently in his seventh year of serving on ATSU’s Board of Trustees. His decision to serve was rooted in a deep sense of community and loyalty to both Kirksville and the institution that shaped his career. As a trustee, he values the opportunity to help preserve ATSU’s traditions while supporting its continued growth and innovation.
“I think one of the most rewarding things is just seeing how well ATSU is doing and what impact it’s made in creating healthcare professionals who serve all over the U.S.,” he says. “ATSU is on a great trajectory and has great leadership from top to bottom. It’s easy to be on a board when the University is run so well.”
Dr. Cleaver hopes the ATSU legacy doesn’t end with him and that one, if not all three, of his children experience the same calling he did and become ATSU-KCOM alumni.
“I love medicine, and I love osteopathic medicine,” he says. “It has a special place in my heart.”
“Dr. Cleaver brings a high level of experience and perspective to the board. His contributions strengthen our programs and benefit our students.”
-Craig M. Phelps, DO, ’84, chancellor, ATSU